Overview & Highlights
Cruise beyond the Antarctic Peninsula to the Weddell Sea in search of Emperor penguins, aided by helicopters.
- City tour of Buenos Aires
- Shore excursions on the Antarctic cruise
Rather than just taking a cruise along oft-sailed routes, be part of a real expedition voyage. As a passenger on the sturdy ice-strengthened European cruise ship Ortelius, travel beyond the Antarctic Peninsula towards the Weddell Sea. An Emperor penguin rookery lies south of Snow Hill Island within the Weddell Sea off the peninsula’s east coast.
In recent seasons, the ice conditions have often thwarted access to the Emperor Penguin rookery, but the most recent attempt, in November 2017, was a success. Whatever the outcome, the beauty and emptiness of the relatively unvisited Weddell Sea, with its striking tabular icebergs and abundant wildlife make this a memorable expedition. If the ship doesn't make it as far as Snow Hill island, it will position itself on the edge of the ice to try and spot lone Emperors - the largest and most striking of all the penguin species - heading out to open water, and there may be trips by helicopter to search for individual birds.
Outline itinerary
Day 1
Arrive in Buenos Aires. Transfer to your hotel in Recoleta.
Day 2
Guided walking tour of Recoleta and Retiro.
Day 3
Fly to Ushuaia, Tierra del Fuego, transfer to your hotel.
Day 4
Transfer to the port to embark MV Ortelius and set sail.
Days 5-6
At sea en route to the Antarctic Peninsula.
Days 7-10
Reach the Weddell Sea, search for Emperor penguins.
Day 11
Visit Half-moon and Deception islands.
Days 12-13
At sea en route to Ushuaia.
Day 14
Disembark in Ushuaia and transfer to airport for flight to Buenos Aires.
Day 15
Transfer to the airport for your international flight.
What our clients say
97% of our clients rated their experience with us as Excellent or Good.
After having seen Kuelap on BBC visiting in reality was amazing. It didn't disappoint, despite the rain showers.
JB, Hendon
Tailor made holiday
Our specialists have been expertly crafting award-winning tailor-made holidays to Latin America for 40 years. We would be delighted to create a truly personalised trip which perfectly matches your wishes and requirements.
Jim Ashworth - Travel Consultant
Jim first caught the Latin American travel bug in 2001 when he decided at the last minute to join a friend travelling around Central America – he hasn't looked back since.
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