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The voyage begins in Ushuaia, sailing through the Beagle Channel before reaching the Falklands~Malvinas, including Stanley. Crossing the Scotia Sea, the journey continues to South Georgia, then back across the Scotia Sea toward the Antarctic Peninsula. After exploring the peninsula, the expedition navigates the Drake Passage before returning to Ushuaia.
Arrive in Ushuaia, where you will be met by a representative of Aurora Expeditions and transferred with your fellow expeditioners to your assigned pre-voyage hotel. If you are already in Ushuaia, we ask you to make your way to your hotel. Check-in is from 3.00 pm. This afternoon, visit the Aurora Expeditions hospitality desk in the hotel lobby, between 3.00 pm and 7.00 pm, to collect your luggage tags, and confirm if you wish to join our Beagle Channel and Isla de Los Lobos Cruise (sea lion island) tomorrow. Our team will confirm details regarding your embarkation day, answer any questions and provide you with information on where to dine or purchase last minute items.
Expeditioners arriving after 7.00 pm will find a welcome pack waiting for them at check-in. We ask you to visit our hospitality desk tomorrow between 8.00 am – 10.00 am.
The remainder of your time is at leisure. All meals today are at your own expense.
Your morning is at leisure to explore Ushuaia.
Those wishing to join our afternoon catamaran cruise, meet back at the hotel lobby at 12.45 pm ready to transfer to the port at 1.00 pm. Here we board our catamaran and sail the Beagle Channel, towards the city’s iconic Les Eclaireurs Lighthouse. Crossing the Bridges Archipelago we’ll slow down to watch colonies of sea lions and imperial cormorants sun themselves on the rocky outcrops, while gulls, rock cormorants, skuas, petrels, albatrosses and cauquenes are often sighted. Our cruise offers panoramic views of the city and the surrounding mountain range, in addition to hearing tales of the people and communities of the region.
Alternatively, enjoy your day at leisure and meet at your hotel lobby at 3.45 pm to be transferred to the pier for embarkation.
Once onboard, you’ll have time to settle into your cabin before our important mandatory briefings. As the ship pulls away from port, we’ll gather on the deck to commence our adventure with spectacular views over Ushuaia and Tierra del Fuego.
This evening get to know your fellow expeditioners and friendly expedition team and crew at a welcome dinner to celebrate the start of a thrilling adventure to Antarctica.
As we commence our trip across the South Atlantic Ocean towards the Falklands~Malvinas, we make the most of our time getting comfortable with the motions of the sea. Our expedition team prepare you for our first landing with important wildlife guidelines, biosecurity procedures, and start our lecture program to help you learn more about the region’s history, wildlife and environment.
Our wildlife experiences begin as we enjoy watching and photographing the many seabirds, including majestic albatrosses and giant petrels following the vessel. They rise and fall skilfully, using air currents created by the ship to gain momentum.
The Falklands~Malvinas comprises two large islands (East and West Falkland), with over 700 islands scattered off the coast. All but seven of these are uninhabited, with windswept coastlines, white sand beaches and crystal-clear water. These beautifully barren islands are true wildlife havens, sheltering an impressive diversity of birdlife, including the largest black-browed albatross colony on earth. The cold, nutrient-rich waters surrounding the islands make this a prime location for spotting marine life.
There are many beautiful areas to explore across the Falklands~Malvinas, each offering a unique perspective on this magnificent archipelago. Your experienced expedition team, who have made countless journeys to this area, will use their expertise to design your voyage from day to day, choosing the best options based on the prevailing winds, weather and wildlife opportunities.
We generally make landings or Zodiac excursions twice a day. Even though we are north of the Antarctic Convergence it can be quite chilly here, so you will want to layer up before joining Zodiac cruises into rocky coves or along sea cliffs, keeping watch for seals, sea lions, dolphins and penguins. Zodiacs will also shuttle you from the ship to land, where you may visit albatross colonies, penguin rookeries and perhaps even have a traditional English ‘tea and scones’ at a local cottage.
Conditions permitting, we plan to land in historic Stanley, the capital of the Falklands~Malvinas. This charming town has a distinctly British character, with terraced town houses, pioneer cottages and even an iconic red telephone box! Colourful buildings house cosy cafes, English pubs, souvenir shops, a post office and the fascinating Historic Dockyard Museum, with displays on the maritime history of the Falkland Islands, natural history and links to Antarctica.
If you have chosen an optional activity, you will have the option to do that whenever conditions allow, and of course keen polar plungers will have the chance to fully immerse themselves in polar waters – conditions permitting!
Between the Falklands~Malvinas and South Georgia, you will be enthralled by the ceaseless flight of the many seabirds that follow and circle the ship. Our onboard lecture program will continue with presentations from our team of experts. You can also enjoy the many facilities on the ship, borrow a book from our well-stocked library or perhaps stay active in the fitness centre.
Sea and weather conditions will determine our arrival time into South Georgia today.
As you near the rugged island of South Georgia, spare a thought for Captain James Cook, who arrived here in 1775 and believed it to be the northern tip of a great southern continent! In fact, it is a small island only 176 km (110 mi) long, but with a 3,000 m (9,842 ft) snow-capped mountain range, some of the world’s largest congregations of wildlife and a truly fascinating human history, South Georgia is an island of incredible riches.
On approach, jagged mountain peaks rise steeply, while seabirds are often spotted soaring around the ship. We will sail down the coast, taking in the spectacular glaciated scenery. This enchanting coastline is yours to explore!
If time and weather conditions permit, en route we could pass close to Shag Rocks, a fascinating group of jagged rocky islets protruding from the sea, in the proximity of South Georgia.
Your experienced expedition team will use their local knowledge to plan your voyage from day to day, choosing the best options based on the prevailing weather, sea state and wildlife opportunities.
Remember to layer up before joining Zodiac excursions that may zip into craggy coves and along the rocky coastline in search of nesting penguins, seal haul-outs and bird cliffs. Remember to keep an eye out for South Georgia’s kelp forests as well – these remarkable underwater ecosystems are quite mesmerising as their fronds sway back and forth on the water’s surface.
Our Zodiacs will also transport ashore, where you can visit some of the largest king penguin colonies on Earth, take a guided walk among fur seals and elephant seals (making sure you listen to your guides and keep your distance!) and wander along pebbled streams and grassy glacial outwash plains. We also hope to visit the remnants of South Georgia’s thriving whaling stations and pay our respects to Sir Ernest Shackleton, whose incredible voyage of survival is synonymous with this island. If you have chosen an optional activity, you will have the option to do that whenever conditions allow.
In addition to Zodiac excursions and shore excursions, we may ship cruise through fjords with towering cliffs of ancient stone, or into deeply indented bays towards dramatic glacier fronts. This is a great time to find a comfy spot in the observation lounge or make your way to the bridge (open at the Captain’s discretion) to enjoy uninterrupted views of South Georgia’s majestic coast.
Sea and weather conditions will determine our departure time from South Georgia today.
It’s almost impossible to describe the feeling of arriving in Antarctica. Spotting your first iceberg and taking a deep breath of some of the most fresh, crisp air on earth is an experience that will stay with you forever.
Once we arrive, the western side of the Antarctic Peninsula and the South Shetland Islands are ours to explore, and we have a host of choices available to us. Because we are so far south, we will experience nearly 24 hours of daylight and the days can be as busy as you wish.
Rug up before joining Zodiac cruises along spectacular ice cliffs or among grounded icebergs, keeping watch for whales, seals and porpoising penguins. Our trusty Zodiacs will also shuttle us ashore, where we may visit penguin rookeries, discover historic huts and explore some of our favourite spots along the peninsula.
While ashore we aim to stretch our legs, wandering along pebbly beaches or perhaps up snow-covered ridgelines to vantage points with mountains towering overhead and ice-speckled oceans below.
In addition to Zodiac cruises and shore excursions, we may ship cruise some of the narrow, dramatic straits separating offshore islands from the mainland, or linger in scenic bays to watch whales travelling or feeding. Keep an ear out for the creak and deep rumble of glaciers as they carve into the sea. Take a quiet moment to experience the wonder of this incredible white continent.
With lectures and film presentations to complete our Antarctic experience, there is still plenty of time to enjoy the magic of the Southern Ocean and the life that calls it home. There is time for reflection and discussion about what we have seen and experienced. We hope you become ambassadors for Antarctica telling your family, friends and colleagues about your journey to this magical place, advocating for its conservation and preservation so that they might one day visit the region to experience what you have been lucky to see and do here.
As we approach the tip of South America, our Captain may sail close to legendary Cape Horn, weather and time permitting.
On disembarkation, passengers on flights departing prior to 2.00 pm will be transferred directly to Ushuaia Airport, while those fortunate enough to be continuing their travels in this spectacular region of the world, will be transferred to their post-voyage Ushuaia accommodation. Passengers flying after 2.00 pm will have time to explore Ushuaia, prior to an afternoon airport transfer, the details of which will be provided onboard prior to disembarkation.
Note: At the conclusion of the voyage, we do not recommend booking flights departing Ushuaia prior to 12.00 pm on the day of disembarkation in case there are delays.
* Please note we travel to remote regions and therefore the connection can be unreliable.
Note: A $15 USD per person per day gratuity for the crew is automatically added to your onboard account. It is at your discretion if you would like to remove the tip (or adjust the amount) when you settle your bill. It is not necessary to tip the expedition team members. This gratuity amount is included for suites as part of their ‘Suite Benefits’.
A non-refundable deposit of US $2,500 per person is required within 7 working days of booking. Final payment is due at least 90 days prior to the departure date of the expedition
CABIN DETAILS
The six Aurora Stateroom Triples, located on Deck 3, feature portholes and private en-suites, offering convenient access to the mudroom and loading platforms. *Available on select departures only.
Please note: All stateroom images of the Greg Mortimer are artist’s impressions, and final designs may vary.
3
21.4m² - 22.8m² (230.34 ft² - 245.41 ft² )
Porthole window
The Greg Mortimer offers eight Aurora Stateroom Twins with portholes and private en-suites. Located on Deck 3, these staterooms provide a comfortable base near the mudroom and loading platforms—ideal for adventurers wanting to stay close to the action.
Please note: All stateroom images of the Greg Mortimer are artist’s impressions, and final designs may vary.
2
15.8m² - 22.8m² (170 ft² - 245.41 ft²)
Porthole window
Our 14 Balcony Stateroom C rooms are the most budget-friendly option, equipped with essential amenities and comfortably accommodating up to two guests. These staterooms are conveniently located across Decks 4 and 6.
Please note: All stateroom images of the Greg Mortimer are artist’s impressions, and final designs may vary.
2
20.9m² - 24.8m² (224.97 ft² - 266.95 ft²)
Private balcony
Our 21 Balcony Stateroom B rooms are our standard option, with many featuring interconnecting doors—ideal for families or groups. These staterooms are located at the front and rear of Decks 4 and 6.
Please note: All stateroom images of the Greg Mortimer are artist’s impressions, and final designs may vary.
2
23.6m² - 24.8m² (254.03 ft² - 266.95 ft²)
Private balcony
Our 23 Balcony Stateroom A rooms are our premium and most abundant option on board. Strategically located in prime positions on Decks 4 and 6, they offer easy access to other levels via internal stairs or the elevator.
Please note: All stateroom images of the Greg Mortimer are artist’s impressions, and final designs may vary.
2
24.1m² - 28m² (259.41 ft² - 301.39 ft²)
Private balcony
Offering extra space to unwind, the Balcony Stateroom Superiors are ideal for polar adventurers traveling with plenty of gear.
Located on Decks 4 and 6, these staterooms feature floor-to-ceiling windows, en-suite bathrooms, and a comfortable desk area. Select rooms also include wheelchair-accessible bathrooms.
Please note: All stateroom images of the Greg Mortimer are artist’s impressions, and final designs may vary.
2
28.2m² - 40.2m² (303.54 ft² - 432.70 ft²)
Private balcony
Perched on Deck 7, the Greg Mortimer's four Junior Suites offer stunning views. When not out exploring, unwind in the private lounge area or take in the scenery from your own balcony.
Please note: All stateroom images of the Greg Mortimer are artist’s impressions, and final designs may vary.
2
38.9m² (418.71 ft²)
Private balcony
The Greg Mortimer’s exclusive Captain’s Suite is the largest and most luxurious room on board, offering the ultimate in style and comfort for your polar adventure. Featuring a spacious lounge area, private balcony, walk-in wardrobe, and en-suite, this suite is in high demand—so be sure to book early.
Please note: All stateroom images of the Greg Mortimer are artist’s impressions, and final designs may vary.
2
44.5m² (478.99 ft²)
Private balcony
The six Aurora Stateroom Triples, located on Deck 3, feature portholes and private en-suites, offering convenient access to the mudroom and loading platforms. *Available on select departures only.
Please note: All stateroom images of the Greg Mortimer are artist’s impressions, and final designs may vary.
3
21.4m² - 22.8m² (230.34 ft² - 245.41 ft² )
Porthole window
The Greg Mortimer offers eight Aurora Stateroom Twins with portholes and private en-suites. Located on Deck 3, these staterooms provide a comfortable base near the mudroom and loading platforms—ideal for adventurers wanting to stay close to the action.
Please note: All stateroom images of the Greg Mortimer are artist’s impressions, and final designs may vary.
2
15.8m² - 22.8m² (170 ft² - 245.41 ft²)
Porthole window
Our 14 Balcony Stateroom C rooms are the most budget-friendly option, equipped with essential amenities and comfortably accommodating up to two guests. These staterooms are conveniently located across Decks 4 and 6.
Please note: All stateroom images of the Greg Mortimer are artist’s impressions, and final designs may vary.
2
20.9m² - 24.8m² (224.97 ft² - 266.95 ft²)
Private balcony
Our 21 Balcony Stateroom B rooms are our standard option, with many featuring interconnecting doors—ideal for families or groups. These staterooms are located at the front and rear of Decks 4 and 6.
Please note: All stateroom images of the Greg Mortimer are artist’s impressions, and final designs may vary.
2
23.6m² - 24.8m² (254.03 ft² - 266.95 ft²)
Private balcony
Our 23 Balcony Stateroom A rooms are our premium and most abundant option on board. Strategically located in prime positions on Decks 4 and 6, they offer easy access to other levels via internal stairs or the elevator.
Please note: All stateroom images of the Greg Mortimer are artist’s impressions, and final designs may vary.
2
24.1m² - 28m² (259.41 ft² - 301.39 ft²)
Private balcony
Offering extra space to unwind, the Balcony Stateroom Superiors are ideal for polar adventurers traveling with plenty of gear.
Located on Decks 4 and 6, these staterooms feature floor-to-ceiling windows, en-suite bathrooms, and a comfortable desk area. Select rooms also include wheelchair-accessible bathrooms.
Please note: All stateroom images of the Greg Mortimer are artist’s impressions, and final designs may vary.
2
28.2m² - 40.2m² (303.54 ft² - 432.70 ft²)
Private balcony
Perched on Deck 7, the Greg Mortimer's four Junior Suites offer stunning views. When not out exploring, unwind in the private lounge area or take in the scenery from your own balcony.
Please note: All stateroom images of the Greg Mortimer are artist’s impressions, and final designs may vary.
2
38.9m² (418.71 ft²)
Private balcony
The Greg Mortimer’s exclusive Captain’s Suite is the largest and most luxurious room on board, offering the ultimate in style and comfort for your polar adventure. Featuring a spacious lounge area, private balcony, walk-in wardrobe, and en-suite, this suite is in high demand—so be sure to book early.
Please note: All stateroom images of the Greg Mortimer are artist’s impressions, and final designs may vary.
2
44.5m² (478.99 ft²)
Private balcony
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$1,745 Per Person
Polar kayaking is a great way to tour the blue-and-white beauty of the polar seas up close, visiting stunning ice formations and waterways too small for our ships to enter.
Kayaking is one of the best ways to access and intimately explore the beautiful coastlines we visit and make the most of your time in the wild and remote destinations we visit. You have the option to discuss with the guides what you want out of your trip and they will help with recommendations on when to paddle, when to go ashore and when it’s possible to do both in one outing.
‘Getting out amongst it’ is our philosophy, and that is exactly what we do. Weather permitting, the sea kayaking activity is normally available anytime the other expeditioners go out.
We paddle between 5 to 15 kilometres (2 to 4 hours) per outing, often offering a combination of both kayaking and onshore landings so you won’t miss out. Each small group of kayakers (up to 10 per guide) will have their own intimate exploration of the small hidden bays and coasts that are inaccessible to Zodiacs.
Aurora Expeditions will be providing kayak booties and dry suits. If you prefer to bring your own dry suit for this activity, please contact our Activity Specialist to discuss the suitability of your equipment.
$1,395 Per Person
Ski/Snowboard Touring offers keen adventurers a chance to take on some of the world’s most incredible slopes. Experienced participants will have the chance to enjoy day-trips to traverse across remote, snow-capped peaks to descend into pristine bays filled with floating bergs, penguin rookeries or even a breaching whale!
While we aim to get out as often as possible, the number of outings will be dependent on weather and other factors. The average number of outings is usually six or more per voyage depending on your itinerary.
Learn more about our Ski/Snowboard touring and how you can join the adventure.
$440 Per Person
Snowshoeing makes walking up gentle slopes and across Antarctica’s soft, powdery snow a breeze, allowing you to explore places others struggle to reach in boots alone. Armed with your very own set of snowshoes and ski poles, you’ll be led by our expert guides, who will provide all the instruction you need.
Snowshoeing is the perfect activity for everyone, with no previous experience required. Join in on the fun and discover a different slice of Antarctica!
While we aim to get out as often as possible, the number of outings will be dependent on the weather and our itinerary’s landing points. The average number of outings is usually six or more per voyage, lasting up to three hours per outing.
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Drawing on centuries of experience, they designed the Greg Mortimer as a purpose-built vessel for exploring the wildest and most remote places on Earth.
As the first passenger ship to feature the revolutionary Ulstein X-BOW®, it crosses oceans more smoothly and efficiently. Expansive observation decks bring travelers closer to nature, while inviting communal spaces and industry-leading environmental credentials make it the perfect base camp for exploration.
Accommodating up to 130 expeditioners per voyage, the ship offers 76 cozy, ocean-view staterooms—85% with private balconies. It also features a modern lecture lounge, multiple observation areas, a restaurant serving excellent meals, a Wellness Centre, gym, sauna, Jacuzzis, a mudroom, and more, ensuring both comfort and adventure at every turn.
Crossing the notorious Drake Passage or Denmark Strait, their expeditions encounter some of nature’s most intense conditions. The Greg Mortimer, at the forefront of nautical technology, is built to handle the challenge with power, stability, and efficiency.
Used in over 100 commercial vessels, the streamlined Ulstein X-BOW® cuts through the swell for smoother crossings, reducing vibrations and disturbances while improving fuel efficiency. Combined with Rolls Royce dynamic stabilizers, it offers unmatched stability and comfort* on ocean voyages.
*Aurora Expeditions does not claim this will prevent or cure seasickness.
The ship carries 15 Zodiacs, accessible via four dedicated boarding doors for fast, safe, and efficient transfers, minimizing wait times and maximizing time spent exploring.
From kayaking and diving to climbing and ski touring, the Greg Mortimer supports a range of adventure activities. Spacious preparation and loading areas, designed in consultation with expert guides, make transitioning from ship to sea or shore smooth and efficient. Dedicated lockers and rapid-drying areas ensure wetsuits and dry suits are ready for the next excursion.
In addition to onboard observation areas, the ship features unique hydraulic viewing platforms, designed with Greg Mortimer himself. These fold-out platforms provide unobstructed views of marine life and seabirds during calm cruising or when stationary in favorable weather.
The Greg Mortimer was designed with sustainability in mind, operating with low energy consumption, high fuel efficiency, and a streamlined structure that reduces emissions.
The ship also features virtual anchoring technology, which uses GPS, steering, propellers, and thrusters to hold position without damaging the sea floor with conventional anchors.
Equipped with industry-leading safety technology, the Greg Mortimer exceeds the requirements for a ship of its size. Its world-class return-to-port system duplicates propulsion, allowing continued operation in the event of engine failure.
The ship is Ice Class 1A and Polar Code 6 compliant, holds a BV* classification, and fully meets the latest SOLAS safety requirements. A fully stocked medical clinic ensures the highest level of care, even in remote locations.
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Explore the vast, breathtaking landscapes of the polar regions with the best travel options tailored to your preferences.
Yes!!! Once we arrive in Antarctica it will be the ultimate goal of the Captain, Expedition Leader, and the Expedition Team to make sure we get off the ship as much as possible. You’ll participate in landings, zodiac cruises, and any additional activities you’ve signed up for. Check the “Detailed trip itinerary” for more details on each outing.
The price shown is the “all-in” price after all taxes, fees, port fees, and permits required; which are handled by the tour operator. The only main additional costs will be mandatory travel insurance, optional gratuity, and additional activities.
Not necessarily, no! Our trips are usually made up of around 50% solo travelers! Prices are always per person, per bed. If you’re a solo traveler, we will match you with a same-gender roommate from our group to share your cabin with. There is also the option for solo cabin availability on certain trips. Please send us a message about solo cabins if that’s your preference.
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Explore the vast, breathtaking landscapes of the polar regions with the best travel options tailored to your preferences.
With over 15 years of combined experience, our team of Polar Expedition Guides is dedicated to providing unforgettable polar journeys.
