Tailor-made expeditions to Antarctica

A journey to Antarctica is a marine expedition shaped by weather, ice conditions and wildlife movements. Most itineraries explore the Antarctic Peninsula, where glaciers, icebergs and narrow channels meet penguin colonies and seal haul-outs.

The Antarctic Peninsula and Drake Passage

Classic expeditions depart from Ushuaia and cross the Drake Passage before reaching the South Shetland Islands and the Antarctic Peninsula. Potential destinations include Paradise Bay, the Lemaire Channel, Deception Island and other sites accessible on the day.

These journeys usually last between ten and fourteen days. Longer itineraries may add South Georgia, the Falkland Islands or an attempt to cross the Antarctic Circle. Selected programmes replace one or both Drake Passage crossings with a charter flight between Punta Arenas and King George Island.

No exact landing schedule can be guaranteed before departure. The expedition leader adjusts each day according to sea ice, wind, visibility and local wildlife activity.

Choosing an expedition ship

Travellers who consider shore landings essential should pay particular attention to vessel capacity. No more than one hundred passengers may be ashore at a landing site simultaneously, while ships carrying more than five hundred guests operate on a cruise-only basis without landings.

Smaller expedition vessels generally allow groups to rotate more efficiently between shore visits and Zodiac excursions. Selection should also consider cabin category, balcony availability, stabilisers, the vessel’s polar class, the experience of the expedition team and the activities included in the fare.

Kayaking, snowshoeing, photography programmes and overnight camping are available on selected departures. Every activity remains subject to weather, ice and safety conditions.

When to travel

The principal season for visiting the Antarctic Peninsula runs from mid-November to early March. Early departures encounter more snow and sea ice. December and January bring extended daylight and considerable activity around penguin colonies. Whale sightings become more likely in February and March, although wildlife encounters can never be guaranteed.

Logistics and responsible travel

Additional nights should be planned in Ushuaia or Punta Arenas before departure, as a delayed flight can result in missing the ship. Travellers also require suitable medical and evacuation insurance, preparation for motion sickness and layered clothing for wind, precipitation and rapidly changing temperatures.

Antarctica is protected through international agreements. The operator should follow IAATO requirements, including biosecurity procedures and regulated distances from wildlife. Any landing or excursion may be changed or cancelled by the expedition leader to protect passengers and the environment.