Weddell Sea – In search of the Emperor Penguin, incl. helicopters
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1. Highlights of the Route
- A journey with an authentic expedition ship to the emperor penguins in the Weddell Sea.
- Your journey begins and ends in Ushuaia in the south of Argentina.
- You travel to Antarctica on a sturdy former research vessel with ice class 1A, offering 3-star comfort and accommodating a maximum of 108 passengers.
On your expedition to the Weddell Sea, the focus is on observing the emperor penguin colony near Snow Hill Island. From the helicopters of the Ortelius, you not only gain insights into the breeding colony with around 4,000 breeding pairs but also have the opportunity to view the Antarctic landscape from the air and discover other bird and penguin species. The implementation and success of the ship-to-shore helicopter transfer to Snow Hill Island are heavily dependent on the prevailing ice conditions. While nature ultimately determines the itinerary, favorable conditions in the past have allowed for unique encounters with the emperor penguins, making this expedition a truly unforgettable experience.
Arrival Package:
We would be happy to plan an individual pre-program for you or your arrival and departure with international flights.
Post Itinerary Package:
Upon request, we would be happy to plan an individual follow-up program for you in Patagonia or another nearby destination.
2. The Itinerary
Your journey begins in Ushuaia.
Crossing Drake Passage
The journey leads through the Antarctic Sound into the Weddell Sea, where gigantic tabular icebergs and emperor penguins can be discovered in their natural environment. The search for these animals is undertaken by ship and helicopters, with helicopter flights revealing impressive landscapes from a new perspective and providing access to normally unreachable places. Possible destinations include the western flank of the Antarctic Sound with its impressive nature, Duse Bay with its historic shelter, Seymour Island with geological peculiarities and overwintering history, as well as other unique places such as Devil Island, Brown Bluff, Gourdin Island and Esperanza Base, all of which offer a variety of penguin species and spectacular landscapes.
In the early morning, you head to Deception Island, where the final landing of the expedition takes place, with Pendulum Cove or Whalers Bay as optional destinations. The current conditions in the Drake Passage determine the exact time of departure.
Crossing Drake Passage.
Arrival in Ushuaia.
- Departure From: Ushuaia
- End Point: Ushuaia
3. Services Included
Included
- Antarctica cruise in the booked cabin category.
- Group transfer on disembarkation day from the port to Ushuaia airport (immediately after disembarkation).
- All shore excursions and activities throughout the entire journey including Zodiac excursions.
- Scientific lectures and entertainment on board.
- All meals including snacks, coffee and tea throughout the entire journey on board the ship.
- Free loan of rubber boots.
- Comprehensive information material before and after the trip.
- Free snowshoeing, kayaking, camping, photography workshops, mountaineering.
Excluded
- International flights: We can book a suitable flight for you at an additional cost.
- Land arrangements before and after the cruise (e.g., hotel accommodation on land).
- Customary tips for staff at the end of the trip.
- Personal expenses, for example in the on-board shop.
- Internet on board.
- Drinks at the bar.
- Massages and similar services.
- Personal travel insurance.
4. Travel Dates and Prices
Please contact us directly for the current daily prices of the trips and the prices for single occupancy or special cabins. Our polar experts will answer all your questions about the itinerary, the ship, and the cabins.