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The voyage begins in Punta Arenas, where you will meet your fellow expeditioners and receive pre-flight briefings. The following day, the journey begins with a charter flight to King George Island, Antarctica, followed by a Zodiac transfer to the vessel. Over the next days, explore the Antarctic Peninsula and South Shetland Islands, with Zodiac excursions and landings to visit penguin rookeries, historic huts, and stunning landscapes. Conditions permitting, the expedition will cross the Antarctic Circle, a significant highlight of the journey. The final day in Antarctica includes a flight back to Punta Arenas, followed by a night at a group hotel. The voyage concludes with a transfer to the airport the next day.
Arrive in Punta Arenas, where you will be met by a representative of Aurora Expeditions and transferred to our hotel. We ask that you arrive no later than 2:00pm on this day. In addition to ensuring your arrival in time for our important pre-flight briefings, if weather conditions deem it necessary, we may depart for King George Island on Day 1 as opposed to Day 2.
Please visit the Aurora Expeditions hospitality desk in the lobby between 10.00 am – 6.00 pm to collect your luggage cabin tags. Our team will confirm details regarding your embarkation day, answer any questions and provide you with information about where to dine or purchase last minute items.
Overlooking the Straits of Magellan, the city sits astride one of the world’s most historic trade routes. Today, Punta Arenas reflects a great blend of cultural backgrounds, from English sheep ranchers to Portuguese sailors. It remains an utterly fascinating testament to Chile’s rich history. Modern day Punta Arenas is home to many popular restaurants, and bars, offering a mix of local and international fare (meals at your own expense today).
At 7.00 pm this evening, meet your fellow expeditioners at a voyage briefing where we will reconfirm your transfer times for tomorrow, explain the procedures for your flight to King George Island and outline important IAATO regulations for visitors to Antarctica.
This morning we will be transferred to Punta Arenas airport for our charter flight to King George Island, Antarctica (weather permitting). The flight will take approximately one hour and forty-five minutes. On arrival into King George Island our expedition team is on hand to greet you and to prepare you for your Zodiac transfer to the vessel. You will have time to settle into your cabin before our important safety briefings.
Note: King George Island is located at the northern part of the Antarctic Peninsula in the South Shetland Islands and is one of the most remote places on Earth. A clear sky with perfect visibility is required for safe take-off and landing. A contingency plan will be applied to your itinerary should your flights not proceed today. Your safety is our upmost priority. We apologise in advance for any delays caused due to this unpredictable situation. Please refer to our terms and conditions for a more detailed explanation.
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 approximately 18-24 hours of daylight and the days can be as busy as you wish.
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 weather, ice conditions and wildlife opportunities.
You will want to rug up before joining Zodiac cruises along spectacular ice cliffs or among grounded icebergs, keeping watch for whales, seals and porpoising penguins. Zodiacs will also transport you from the ship to land, where you can 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. 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!
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 their way from summit to sea. Take a quiet moment to experience the wonder of this incredible white continent.
On this voyage, conditions permitting, we plan to cross the Antarctic Circle, an imaginary line located at the Antarctic Circle at latitude 66°33′ South (approximately). Crossing below The Circle is certainly a special highlight for many people, and the moment will be celebrated with a toast out on the deck (weather permitting). You have earned some boasting privileges, joining a small group of lucky adventurers who have ventured to this part of the world.
As we approach and cross the Antarctic Circle, you will notice subtle changes in the landscape, and also in the distribution of wildlife. The waters at this time of year are rich with krill and we hope to see plenty of whales – particularly humpbacks and minkes and enjoy the spectacle of penguins feeding their ravenous chicks.
As we approach Frei Base on King George Island, it is time to farewell Antarctica and our amazing adventure before boarding our flight to Punta Arenas, Chile. 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.
In Punta Arenas, you will be transferred to our group hotel for an overnight stay.
Note: King George Island is located at the northern tip of the Antarctic Peninsula in the South Shetland Islands and is one of the most remote places on Earth. A clear sky with perfect visibility is required for safe take-off and landing. We apologise in advance for any possible delays.
After breakfast, bid a fond farewell to your fellow travellers as we continue our onward journeys, hopefully with a newfound sense of the immense power of nature (breakfast included). A transfer to the airport is included in the voyage fare.
Note: Should your flight not proceed due to local conditions; you will remain on the ship until it is deemed achievable to return to Punta Arenas. Refer to our terms and conditions for further details.
* 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 fo
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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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.
