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The journey begins in Ushuaia with a hotel stay and optional excursion to Lake Escondido before embarkation. After setting sail, we cross the Drake Passage and reach the Antarctic Peninsula and South Shetland Islands, where we spend several days exploring icy landscapes, penguin colonies, and historic sites via Zodiac cruises and shore landings. We return via the Drake Passage, with final lectures and wildlife sightings along the way, and disembark in Ushuaia on Day 12, with transfers provided for onward travel.
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 Lake Escondido pre-embarkation tour 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.
This morning, enjoy breakfast and check-out. Please ensure your cabin luggage is fitted with cabin tags clearly labelled with your name and cabin number. Take your cabin luggage to hotel reception, prior to, or at check-out. Your luggage will be stored and transferred directly to the port for clearance, to be placed in your cabin ahead of your arrival on board. Please keep any valuables or personal items with you throughout the day.
Those wishing to join our Lake Escondido tour today, please meet in the hotel lobby at 8.45 am. This tour offers us an unforgettable panoramic drive through big valleys of glacial origin, evergreen and deciduous forests, waterfalls and rivers, in the vastness of the Andes Mountain Range. We will leave Ushuaia city to the northeast of Tierra del Fuego, driving through peat bog valleys to reach Garibaldi Pass, only accessible by a winding road that will take us to a panoramic point. From here we will have amazing panoramic views of Lake Escondido and, if weather conditions allow, of Fagnano Lake. We will start our descent towards the northeast to reach Fagnano Lake’s shore where we will visit a local ranch. After appreciating the landscape, you will have the chance to enjoy the typical Fuegian Lamb barbecue. Enjoy some free time there before returning to Ushuaia for ship embarkation.
Alternatively, enjoy your day at leisure and meet at your hotel lobby or from the meeting point at the parking lot near the pier (details will be given by our ground staff at the hotel), 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 the Drake Passage crossing, 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 and biosecurity procedures and start our lecture program to help you learn more about Antarctica’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 our vessel. On sea days, you may can enjoy the facilities on board the vessel including the gym, wellness centre or the relaxing in one of the observation lounges.
Nearing the South Shetland Islands and the tip of the Antarctic Peninsula on the afternoon of day four, the excitement is palpable with everyone converging on one of the observation decks watching for our first iceberg. The ocean takes on a whole new perspective once we are below the Antarctic Convergence and are surrounded by the surreal presence of floating ice sculptures. The memory of your first big iceberg sighting is likely to remain with you for a lifetime. Time and weather permitting, we may attempt our first landing in Antarctica by late afternoon.
It is 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.
We generally make landings or Zodiac excursions twice a day. 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 participate in the activity whenever conditions allow, and of course keen polar plungers will have the chance to fully immerse themselves in polar waters – conditions permitting! The polar plunge can take place at any time during the voyage, so listen out for the announcement from the expedition team and get ready for the most exhilarating dip of your life!
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. This is a great time to enjoy the observation lounge or make your way to the bridge (open at the captain’s discretion) for uninterrupted views of Antarctica in all its splendour. Listen out for the creak and deep rumble of glaciers as they carve into sea. Take a quiet moment to experience the wonder of the pristine paradise of the splendid white continent.
Enjoy a final morning landing in the South Shetland Islands before we re-enter the Drake Passage for our return journey to South America.
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.
During the early morning, we cruise up the Beagle Channel, before quietly slipping into dock in Ushuaia, where we will be free to disembark around 8.00 am. Farewell your expedition team and fellow passengers as we all continue our onward journeys, hopefully with a newfound sense of the immense power of nature.
Upon disembarkation, for those continuing their travels in the region, transportation to the hotel will be arranged exclusively for guests who have booked their accommodations through Aurora or for those staying in downtown areas near the port. Expeditioners departing on flights prior to 12:30 pm will be directly transferred to Ushuaia Airport, those with flights after 12:30 pm will have the opportunity to explore Ushuaia before an afternoon airport transfer, and the transfer procedures and details will be communicated onboard before 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.
EXPEDITION INCLUSIONS
• All airport transfers mentioned in the itinerary.
• One night’s hotel accommodation including breakfast, in Ushuaia on Day 1.
• Lake Escondido tour in Ushuaia, on Day 2.
• Onboard accommodation during voyage, including daily cabin service.
• All meals, snacks, tea, coffee, soft drinks and juices during voyage.
• Beer and house wine with dinner.
• Captain’s Farewell reception including four-course dinner, house cocktails, house beer and wine, non-alcoholic beverages.
• All shore excursions and Zodiac cruises.
• Educational lectures and guiding services provided by Expedition Team.
• Complimentary access to onboard expedition doctor and medical clinic (initial consultation).
• One 3-in-1 waterproof, polar expedition jacket.
• Complimentary use of Muck Boots during the voyage.
• Comprehensive pre-departure information.
• Port surcharges, permits and landing fees.
• Wi-Fi*.
* Please note we travel to remote regions and therefore the connection can be unreliable.
EXPEDITION EXCLUSIONS
• International or domestic flights – unless specified in the itinerary.
• Transfers – unless specified in the itinerary.
• Airport arrival or departure taxes.
• Passport, visa, reciprocity and vaccination fees and charges.
• Travel insurance or emergency evacuation charges.
• Hotel accommodation and meals – unless specified in the itinerary.
• Optional excursions and optional activity surcharges.
• All items of a personal nature, including but not limited to alcoholic beverages and soft drinks (outside of dinner service), gratuities, laundry services, personal clothing, medical expenses or phone charges.
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
Experience comfort and convenience in our Aurora Stateroom Triples, featuring porthole views and private en-suites. Located on Deck 3, these rooms offer easy access to the mudroom and loading platforms, ensuring a seamless adventure.
Please note: All stateroom images of the Sylvia Earle are artist’s impressions, and final designs may vary.
3
22.67m2 (244ft2)
Porthole
Situated on Deck 7, the Staterooms boast French balconies, floor-to-ceiling windows, private en-suite bathrooms, and a cozy desk area.
Please note: All stateroom images of the Sylvia Earle are artist’s impressions, and final designs may vary.
2
19.9m2 - 20.8m2(214.2ft2 - 223.9ft2)
French Balcony
Our two Balcony Stateroom C - Solo rooms offer the most budget-friendly option, complete with essential amenities and strategically located across Deck 6.
Please note: All stateroom images of the Sylvia Earle are artist’s impressions, and final designs may vary.
1
19.5m² - 28.7m² (209.9ft² - 308.9ft²)
Private balcony
Our two Balcony Stateroom B - Solo rooms are our standard option, situated at the front of Deck 6.
Please note: All stateroom images of the Sylvia Earle are artist’s impressions, and final designs may vary.
1
19.5m² - 28.7m² (209.9ft² - 308.9ft²)
Private balcony
Our six Balcony Stateroom A - Solo rooms are our premium option, strategically located on Decks 4 and 6 for convenient access to other levels via internal stairs or the elevator.
Please note: All stateroom images of the Sylvia Earle are artist’s impressions, and final designs may vary.
1
19.5m² - 28.7m² (209.9ft² - 308.9ft²)
Private balcony
Our 11 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 Sylvia Earle are artist’s impressions, and final designs may vary.
2
19.5m² - 28.7m² (209.9ft² - 308.9ft²)
Private balcony
Our 17 Balcony Stateroom B rooms are our standard option, with many featuring interconnecting doors—perfect 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 Sylvia Earle are artist’s impressions, and final designs may vary.
2
19.5m² - 28.7m² (209.9ft² - 308.9ft²)
Private balcony
Our 23 Balcony Stateroom A rooms are our premium and most abundant option on board. Conveniently located in prime areas 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 Sylvia Earle are artist’s impressions, and final designs may vary.
2
19.5m² - 28.7m² (209.9ft² - 308.9ft²)
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 Sylvia Earle are artist’s impressions, and final designs may vary.
2
29.2m² - 35.2m² (314.3ft² - 378.9ft²)
Private balcony
Perched on Deck 7, the 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 Sylvia Earle are artist’s impressions, and final designs may vary.
2
41.6m² (447.8ft²)
Private balcony
The largest and most luxurious accommodation on board, the Captain’s Suite offers the perfect blend of elegance and comfort for your polar adventure. Featuring a spacious lounge area, private balcony, walk-in wardrobe, and en-suite bathroom, this exclusive suite provides the ultimate retreat. With only one available, booking early is essential.
Please note: All stateroom images of the Sylvia Earle are artist’s impressions, and final designs may vary.
2
43.8m² (471.5 ft²)
Private balcony
Experience comfort and convenience in our Aurora Stateroom Triples, featuring porthole views and private en-suites. Located on Deck 3, these rooms offer easy access to the mudroom and loading platforms, ensuring a seamless adventure.
Please note: All stateroom images of the Sylvia Earle are artist’s impressions, and final designs may vary.
3
22.67m2 (244ft2)
Porthole
Situated on Deck 7, the Staterooms boast French balconies, floor-to-ceiling windows, private en-suite bathrooms, and a cozy desk area.
Please note: All stateroom images of the Sylvia Earle are artist’s impressions, and final designs may vary.
2
19.9m2 - 20.8m2(214.2ft2 - 223.9ft2)
French Balcony
Our two Balcony Stateroom C - Solo rooms offer the most budget-friendly option, complete with essential amenities and strategically located across Deck 6.
Please note: All stateroom images of the Sylvia Earle are artist’s impressions, and final designs may vary.
1
19.5m² - 28.7m² (209.9ft² - 308.9ft²)
Private balcony
Our two Balcony Stateroom B - Solo rooms are our standard option, situated at the front of Deck 6.
Please note: All stateroom images of the Sylvia Earle are artist’s impressions, and final designs may vary.
1
19.5m² - 28.7m² (209.9ft² - 308.9ft²)
Private balcony
Our six Balcony Stateroom A - Solo rooms are our premium option, strategically located on Decks 4 and 6 for convenient access to other levels via internal stairs or the elevator.
Please note: All stateroom images of the Sylvia Earle are artist’s impressions, and final designs may vary.
1
19.5m² - 28.7m² (209.9ft² - 308.9ft²)
Private balcony
Our 11 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 Sylvia Earle are artist’s impressions, and final designs may vary.
2
19.5m² - 28.7m² (209.9ft² - 308.9ft²)
Private balcony
Our 17 Balcony Stateroom B rooms are our standard option, with many featuring interconnecting doors—perfect 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 Sylvia Earle are artist’s impressions, and final designs may vary.
2
19.5m² - 28.7m² (209.9ft² - 308.9ft²)
Private balcony
Our 23 Balcony Stateroom A rooms are our premium and most abundant option on board. Conveniently located in prime areas 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 Sylvia Earle are artist’s impressions, and final designs may vary.
2
19.5m² - 28.7m² (209.9ft² - 308.9ft²)
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 Sylvia Earle are artist’s impressions, and final designs may vary.
2
29.2m² - 35.2m² (314.3ft² - 378.9ft²)
Private balcony
Perched on Deck 7, the 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 Sylvia Earle are artist’s impressions, and final designs may vary.
2
41.6m² (447.8ft²)
Private balcony
The largest and most luxurious accommodation on board, the Captain’s Suite offers the perfect blend of elegance and comfort for your polar adventure. Featuring a spacious lounge area, private balcony, walk-in wardrobe, and en-suite bathroom, this exclusive suite provides the ultimate retreat. With only one available, booking early is essential.
Please note: All stateroom images of the Sylvia Earle are artist’s impressions, and final designs may vary.
2
43.8m² (471.5 ft²)
Private balcony
MORE INFORMATION
$165 Per Person
One of our most popular activities, camping offers you the unique opportunity to roll out your sleeping mat and wriggle into your thermal sleeping bag for a night out on the ice – no camping experience necessary! Once you’ve settled in, prepare to witness the stunning beauty of the Antarctic night sky, as well as the sounds of ice cracking in the distance and wildlife carrying on their busy schedule around you. This is the activity for the ultimate bragging rights!
$1395 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.
$370 Per Person
Snowshoeing offers a fun and easy way to explore Antarctica’s stunning terrain, making it effortless to walk across powdery snow and reach scenic spots that are harder to access by foot. With expert guides leading the way and all equipment and training provided, you’ll be ready to head out in no time—no prior experience needed. Ideal for those with a moderate fitness level, snowshoeing outings last up to three hours and provide incredible views and a fresh perspective on the White Continent. With up to six outings per voyage, it’s a rewarding way to stretch your legs and embrace the adventure.
$1,330 Per Person
Sea kayaking in the wilds of Antarctica, the Arctic, and some of the world’s most biodiverse regions offers an exhilarating way to explore stunning coastlines and icebergs. Designed by kayakers for kayakers, this program allows you to develop your skills, connect with expert guides, and maximize time on the water. In small groups of up to 10 paddlers, you’ll explore hidden bays and shores inaccessible to Zodiacs, with outings ranging from 5 to 15 kilometers (2–4 hours). Whether kayaking or onshore, you’ll experience the incredible landscapes and wildlife up close. With provided gear and professional guidance, you’ll enjoy a safe, thrilling adventure that lets you immerse fully in the environment.
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The Sylvia Earle, a purpose-built expedition ship, connects travelers on life-changing journeys to the world’s most remote and spectacular places. Its Ulstein X-BOW® design ensures a smoother voyage while reducing environmental impact.
Honoring Dr. Sylvia Earle and six pioneering women in conservation, the ship’s public decks celebrate their contributions and raise awareness for their vital work.
With a Citizen Science Center, expert lecturers, and an interactive science program, the Sylvia Earle enriches every journey with knowledge and deeper connections to the natural world.
The Sylvia Earle is designed for immersive exploration, carrying a maximum of 130 expeditioners to ensure small, intimate group experiences. Every feature of the ship is crafted to enhance discovery, comfort, and sustainability.
Every detail of the Sylvia Earle is built for exploration, ensuring you experience the natural world up close while traveling in comfort and sustainability.
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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.
MORE INFORMATION
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.
