Antarctic Peninsula: The Classic Voyage

EARLY BIRD: Save up to 15%* off

Book by 31 March, unless sold out prior.

Tour Overview

Set off on a 12-day action-packed Antarctic adventure! Explore the magnificent Antarctic Peninsula and South Shetland Islands, marvel at towering glaciers, and encounter penguins, seals, and whales in one of Earth’s last great wildernesses.

As you sail through the icy waters of Antarctica, witness the extraordinary wildlife that thrives in these harsh, frigid conditions—from playful penguins and seals to magnificent whales gliding gracefully through the deep blue. Marvel at colossal icebergs, each one more stunning than the last, their sheer size and otherworldly shapes creating a surreal backdrop to your journey. This is more than just an expedition; it’s an invitation to witness Antarctica at its most pristine and captivating.

A seasoned Captain and Expedition Leader will work tirelessly to maximize every opportunity to explore the White Continent. While wind, sea, and ice conditions will shape our exact itinerary, we’ll make thrilling Zodiac landings to offer guests the chance to step onto land and visit penguin rookeries, research stations, and historic sites. This journey will also include Zodiac cruises through breathtaking areas filled with towering icebergs glaciers, and sightings of whales and seals.

This unforgettable voyage promises awe-inspiring moments at every turn—an experience that will leave you forever changed by the raw beauty and untamed spirit of Antarctica.

Highlights

Antarctica’s sights and sounds: Towering glaciers, icebergs, and deep blue waters come alive with the calls of penguins, the barking of seals, and the thunderous whoosh when whales breach and exhale — a fully immersive encounter with nature.

Shore landings and excursions: With the Ocean Albatros and Ocean Victory, you’ll usually enjoy two landings or excursions a day (weather permitting), so you’re not just cruising past Antarctica — you’re getting boots on ice as often as possible, exploring beaches, bays and hidden corners that bigger ships can’t reach.

Purpose-built small ship comfort: Cruising on the Ocean Albatros or Ocean Victory means smooth crossings thanks to an innovative hull design, well-appointed cabins (most with their own balcony), panoramic observation decks, spacious lounges, and expert guides who bring this remote world to life.

Pricing

Porthole Cabin

from

$20,180*

Per person, twin share

Pricing based on 22 Nov 2026 departure

Alternative departure dates and cabins types available, please enquire for details

** note  - cabin may differ from that shown

What's Included

1 night pre night cruise accommodation in Ushuaia including breakfast

Accommodation onboard for 10 nights. -Cabin upgrades available

All meals, snacks, tea and coffee during voyage.

Beer, house wine and soft drinks with dinner.

Fees & Services

Embarkation shuttle transfer to the vessel from Ushuaia city centre

Shuttle transfer after disembarkation from the ship to Ushuaia city centre or airport

All scheduled landings and excursions

Certified Emergency MD and Clinic

Briefings and lectures by our Expedition Leader and Team

Professional Photography Coach

Citizen Science program

Exclusive MCKEON down Inner jacket to keep & outer Shackleton Expedition Jackets will be on loan

Use of rubber boots on loan for excursions.

Participation in the Polar Plunge

What's Not Included

Gratuities for the Expedition Team and crew (Recommended $20 USD per person per day)

Airfares, mandatory travel insurance & personal expenses such as drinks, laundry.

Optional Activities: Camping, Kayaking, Immersive Photography and Snowshoeing (additional charge)

Itinerary

Day 1 - Arrive in Ushuaia

After a friendly welcome at the airport and a transfer to the luxurious Arakur Ushuaia Resort & Spa, take some time to unwind or explore the southernmost city in the world, Ushuaia. (In the unlikely event that you can't be accommodated at the Arakur, you'll unwind at another of Ushuaia's top luxury hotels.)

Our optional evening briefing is your opportunity to ask questions and meet some of your fellow explorers.

Day 2 - Ushuaia | Embarkation

Spend your morning relaxing at the hotel, visiting a museum, or exploring the shops in Ushuaia, before our mid-afternoon escort to the ship. The Expedition Team and ship staff will welcome you on board and get you settled in, followed by a safety and orientation briefing and our Captain’s welcome dinner. We’re on our way to Antarctica!

Days 3 & 4  - Drake Passage

Join our Polar Experts as they share their vast knowledge of Antarctica, from its enchanting wildlife to its bold history. Participate in our pioneering Citizen Science program or sit back and take in this fabled journey while catching glimpses of rarely seen wildlife. Keep your binoculars handy to identify the many seabirds that escort our ship as we cross the Antarctic Convergence into Antarctica’s waters and noticeably cooler temperatures.

Days 5 & 6 - South Shetland Islands

Over time, the volcanic activity of the South Shetland Islands has created a geology unlike any other. Here, you can expect a spectacular display of mountains, glaciers, and wildlife, including Chinstrap and Gentoo penguins, and it’s not uncommon to share the water’s edge with Elephant and Fur seals. Whales are often spotted as well. We’ll settle into our Zodiacs and spend most of our day exploring, taking unforgettable photographs, and planting our footsteps on the endlessly diverse landscape. With an extra day in the itinerary, a visit to the black sand beaches and rusted ruins of Deception Island is always at the top of our list.

Days 7, 8 & 9 - Antarctica

Welcome to Antarctica in all its awe-inspiring glory. For the next few days, we’ll explore any number of picturesque bays and famed landing sites, maneuvering through majestic channels, where glorious icebergs and an array of beguiling wildlife share the highly active waters. Prepare to be amazed as we spot numerous species of penguins, seals, and whales, both along the rugged coastline as well as in the sea. A night of camping under the stars is also an unforgettable highlight for those who sign up. There are great opportunities to stop at several active scientific bases and historic landing sites, and we plan to take full advantage of all the continent offers.

Days 10 & 11 - Drake Passage

We leave this magical place and make our way north, once again crossing the legendary Drake Passage. We have one last hurrah as we celebrate the conclusion of our expedition with a special slideshow and a final meal together.

Day 12 - Disembark in Ushuaia

With huge smiles on weary, content faces, we disembark in the morning, letting you catch a flight to Buenos Aires or stay in Ushuaia for more sights and adventure.

Your Ships

Ocean Albatros

The Ocean Albatros is a modern, purpose-built expedition ship combining innovative X-Bow® technology for a smoother ride with stylish Scandinavian design. Most staterooms feature private balconies, while panoramic lounges, elegant dining, and a sauna with ocean views create a refined onboard atmosphere. Blending sustainability, stability, and comfort, she delivers an elevated adventure experience in the world’s most remote regions.

Seaventure

Seaventure is an intimate, ice-strengthened expedition vessel offering a classic small-ship experience. Ocean-view cabins, expansive observation decks, and welcoming lounge spaces create a relaxed and personal atmosphere. Ideal for accessing remote destinations, she combines authentic exploration with warm service and modern comforts.

Ocean Victory

Designed for immersive exploration, the Ocean Victory pairs high ice-class capability with contemporary comfort. Her distinctive X-Bow® hull enhances stability, while spacious cabins — most with balconies — and light-filled social spaces offer relaxed sophistication. With expert-led excursions and frequent Zodiac landings, she provides the perfect balance of adventure and comfort.

Terms and Conditions

EARLY BIRD: Save up to 15% off (select dates and cabins only). Book by 31 March, unless sold out prior. 

Prices advertised are NZD but based on USD and are subject to change due to currency fluctuations. Prices are subject to change and subject to availability at time of booking. 

Prices are in NZD (unless specified otherwise) per person, in complete twin/double share accommodation (or single occupancy or family share where specified), valid for new bookings only, subject to availability. Offers are capacity-controlled and may be reduced, changed, extended or withdrawn at any time, without notice. Unless specified, airfares (and often transfers) are additional. Pricing variations may occur due to fluctuations in currency exchange rates. Prices include savings/discounts where applicable and all taxes/charges (which are subject to change). Offers valid for travel originating in New Zealand only. Required deposit amounts and deposit/final payment dates vary. Deposits may or may not be refundable. Amendment and cancellation fees apply. All products and itineraries are subject to change at the discretion of the supplier. Prices are based on cash, Eftpos, or Direct Credit payment only. We accept all major credit cards, however, processing fees apply. World Travellers reserve the right to correct any errors or omissions at any time. To be read in conjunction with the booking terms and conditions applicable to Viva Expeditions. Travel documents & vaccination requirements are the responsibility of the individual traveller. Professional service fees may apply. Airfares & transfers are additional (unless specified otherwise). Some staterooms are based on a 'guarantee' stateroom. The exact stateroom grade, number and location on the ship will be allocated at the discretion of the cruise line. Some staterooms have obstructed views.