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.
Accommodation
Browse our unrivalled portfolio of accommodation . Every option has been carefully chosen by our team of travel experts, so you can rest assured that you’ll relax in utter comfort.
What our clients say
97% of our clients rated their experience with us as Excellent or Good.
Very efficient with the booking process and very helpful with his service throughout. Adam was always prompt and helpful in answering all our questions prior to departure.
IR, London
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.

Carrie Gallagher - Travel Consultant
A former JLA tour leader, Carrie brings a wealth of on-the-ground experience to our London-based Escorted Groups team.
Inspired by this trip
Our exciting range of articles on Latin America explore everything from iconic destinations and lesser-known cultural gems to delicious traditional recipes. You’ll also find exclusive travel tips, first-hand client reviews and the chance to get your personal questions answered by our travel experts.
Papagaio
Your edit for Latin American inspiration
Our exciting range of articles on Latin America explore everything from iconic destinations and lesser-known cultural gems to delicious traditional recipes. You’ll also find exclusive travel tips, first-hand client reviews and the chance to get your personal questions answered by our travel experts.
View Extraordinary InspirationHolidays Antarctica: In search of the Emperor penguin
From expertly designed Pre-designed Holidays to trail-blazing Group Tours, browse our range of carefully crafted holidays.
Classic holidays

Private Journeys
Antarctica
Antarctic Peninsula: Fly and cruise
14 days from £16,830pp

Private Journeys
Antarctica / Falkland Islands
Antarctica Wildlife: Falklands, South Georgia and the Antarctic Peninsula
23 days from £14,150pp

Private Journeys
Antarctica
Antarctica: In search of the Emperor penguin
15 days from £11,520pp

Private Journeys
Antarctica
Antarctica: Ross Sea and the Far Side
37 days from £27,865pp