Antarctica is not just any destination. It is the last great wilderness.
We are a local company based in Ushuaia, the Gateway to Antarctica. We specialize in Antarctic expeditions and provide personalized assistance before, during and after your journey.
of Antarctic expeditions depart from Ushuaia
We are a local company based directly in Ushuaia, Argentina: the Southernmost City in the World and the main gateway to Antarctica.
The local advantage
Ground presence in Ushuaia
Our local office and staff assist you in person before boarding and on your return.
Unbiased operator partnerships
We work with all major polar cruise lines and recommend ships, cabins and real availability independently.
Last-minute & promo access
At the port, we monitor live unsold cabin inventory and special promotions to secure the best value.
One point of contact
Cruise tickets, Ushuaia hotels, airport transfers, gear rentals and excursions in one itinerary.
In-town gear rental
Skip heavy luggage: rent waterproof boots, pants, jackets, poles and dry bags in Ushuaia.
Flight delay & emergency buffer
Delayed flight or lost luggage? We coordinate with port authorities and cruise lines before the ship sails.
Month by month, November to March
The Antarctic tourism season takes place during the austral summer, from November to March. All months within the season offer rewarding experiences, and the choice often depends on personal interests such as wildlife activity or photographic conditions.
November
Pristine snow and giant tabular icebergs as sea ice breaks up. Penguin courtship, nest building and egg-laying; elephant and fur seal breeding. Best early-booking rates.
Dec – Jan
Warmest days (0°C to +5°C) and up to 20+ hours of daylight. Penguin chicks fill the rookeries, seals rest on ice floes, high whale activity. Peak demand period.
February
Best whale watching: humpback, minke, fin and orca. Chicks fledge and practice swimming. Receding pack ice lets ships sail toward the Antarctic Circle.
March
Dramatic low-angle light and sunsets, ideal for photography. Whales feed before migrating, bays freeze over, adult penguins molt. Fewer vessels operating.
Earth’s final frontier
A continent of supreme natural beauty, extreme weather and extraordinary wildlife. Tourism here is non-permanent and strictly regulated under the international Antarctic Treaty System and IAATO guidelines, to ensure zero impact on pristine habitats.
Six routes
Every route reveals a different Antarctica. We help you find the one that suits you best.
Classic Antarctica (Antarctic Peninsula)
The Classic Antarctica itinerary is the most common and accessible way to experience the White Continent. Expeditions depart from Ushuaia and cross the legendary Drake Passage, the body of water separating South America from Antarctica. After approximately two days of navigation, ships reach the South Shetland Islands and the Antarctic Peninsula. This region offers some of the most dramatic landscapes in Antarctica, with towering glaciers, icebergs, and snow-covered mountains descending directly into the sea.
Wildlife is abundant in this region. Visitors frequently encounter gentoo, chinstrap, and Adélie penguins, as well as seals such as Weddell seals, leopard seals, and crabeater seals. Whale sightings are also common, especially humpback whales and minke whales.
- Lemaire Channel, Paradise Harbor and Port Lockroy
- Gentoo, chinstrap and Adélie penguins
- Seals and humpback whales
- The essential introduction to Antarctica
Crossing the Antarctic Circle
The Antarctic Circle crossing expedition extends further south than the classic Antarctic Peninsula itinerary. Ships navigate beyond latitude 66°33' South, officially crossing the Antarctic Circle. Reaching this point depends heavily on ice conditions, making the achievement particularly special. Many travelers receive a symbolic certificate commemorating the crossing.
Because fewer ships venture this far south, the landscapes become increasingly remote and pristine. Ice formations are often larger and more dramatic, and landing sites are less frequently visited.
- Official Circle-crossing ceremony
- Remote sea-ice navigation
- Adélie penguin colonies
- Deeper isolation and dramatic icebergs
Weddell Sea Expedition
The Weddell Sea represents one of the most remote and ice-dominated regions of Antarctica. Located on the eastern side of the Antarctic Peninsula, this area is known for its enormous tabular icebergs and dense pack ice, creating some of the most dramatic polar landscapes in the world.
Expeditions to the Weddell Sea focus heavily on exploration and ice navigation. Conditions vary greatly depending on the season and ice coverage, making each voyage unique. This region also holds great historical significance. It was here that Sir Ernest Shackleton’s ship Endurance became trapped and eventually crushed by pack ice during the famous Imperial Trans-Antarctic Expedition of 1914–1917.
- Colossal tabular icebergs and dense pack ice
- Rich history: Shackleton’s Endurance
- Potential emperor penguin sightings (select routes)
Falklands, South Georgia & Antarctica
This itinerary is one of the most comprehensive and wildlife-rich expeditions in the Southern Ocean, combining three remarkable destinations: the Falkland Islands (Islas Malvinas), South Georgia, and the Antarctic Peninsula. The journey typically begins with a visit to the Falkland Islands, where travelers can explore remote settlements and observe diverse birdlife. The islands are famous for their large colonies of black-browed albatross, rockhopper penguins, and Magellanic penguins. The expedition then continues eastward to South Georgia, one of the most extraordinary wildlife destinations on Earth. Massive colonies of king penguins, sometimes numbering hundreds of thousands of individuals, dominate the beaches. The island is also home to elephant seals, fur seals, and numerous seabirds.
South Georgia also has a strong historical connection to Antarctic exploration. Visitors often stop at Grytviken, a former whaling station and the final resting place of explorer Sir Ernest Shackleton. The final leg of the expedition reaches the Antarctic Peninsula, where passengers explore glaciers, ice-filled bays, and penguin colonies through zodiac landings and guided shore excursions.
- “The Serengeti of the Southern Ocean”
- Hundreds of thousands of king penguins
- Elephant seals and nesting albatross
- Shackleton’s grave in Grytviken
Basecamp Antarctica
The Basecamp Antarctica itinerary is designed for travelers who want a more active and adventurous experience compared to traditional expedition cruises. Rather than focusing only on zodiac landings and sightseeing, this program allows guests to participate in a wide range of outdoor polar activities under the supervision of experienced guides. The expedition vessel essentially acts as a mobile basecamp, from which small groups venture out each day to participate in different activities.
- All adventure activities included in the voyage price
- Camping, kayaking, snowshoeing and mountaineering
- Focused on the active outdoors
Fly-Cruise (Air-Cruise Express)
A two-hour flight takes you from Punta Arenas, the Chilean gateway to Patagonia, directly to Antarctica, where you then board your expedition ship. No stormy crossing. No seasickness. Just quick, total immersion in your Antarctic adventure.
- 2-hour flight over the Drake Passage
- Bypasses open-ocean navigation
Leave No Trace & Biosecurity
All outer gear and boots are thoroughly washed and vacuumed before landing, to prevent the introduction of invasive non-native species, soil or seeds.
A true expedition, not a cruise
No fixed dock schedules: every day is shaped by sea, weather and ice, managed by the Captain and the Expedition Leader.
Maximum passengers ashore at any single landing site at one time (IAATO).
Passenger cap for a full landing program. Larger ships face restricted landings; over 500, none at all.
Zodiac Landings
Heavy-duty inflatable craft reach remote beaches, penguin rookeries, research stations and historic sites.
Zodiac Cruises
Through ice fields, along blue glacier fronts and around icebergs to see seals, penguins and whales at water level.
Split Operations
Group A lands while Group B cruises, then they swap: more time off the ship within the 100-person ashore limit.
Expert Lectures
Onboard talks by marine biologists, ornithologists, geologists, glaciologists and polar historians.
Beyond the Zodiac
Optional adventures and participatory science on many vessels. Some require pre-booking or extra fees.
Sea Kayaking
Paddle quietly through calm bays and ice fields, eye-level with wildlife.
Pre-booking required. Prior kayaking experience; drysuits provided.Polar Camping
A night on the ice in polar bivouac bags or tents under the Antarctic sky.
Pre-booking required. Weather dependent; no food ashore.Snowshoeing & Mountaineering
Guided treks up polar ridges and glaciers with views over icy fjords.
Select vessels or Basecamp voyages. Gear and guides provided.Polar Plunge
Jump into 0°C to -1°C waters from the gangway or beach, secured by a harness.
Open to all. Included on almost all voyages, sauna after!Citizen Science
Collect water samples, track clouds (NASA GLOBE) or log whale tails (Happywhale).
Free and open to all on participating vessels.Four vessel categories
All ice-strengthened, SOLAS / Polar Code.
Expedition Cruising
Pure exploration, an intimate informal vibe and maximum time off the ship.
- MV Ushuaia (90 guests)
- Ocean Nova (80)
- Plancius · Ortelius
- Hondius (170, Polar Class 6)
Premium Expedition
Adventure meets luxury: Scandinavian interiors, balcony staterooms, advanced stabilizers.
- Ocean Explorer (138)
- Magellan Explorer (76 air-cruise, 96 sea voyages)
- Greg Mortimer · Sylvia Earle
- Ocean Victory (189)
- Ocean Albatros
Upper Premium Expedition
PC5 ice-class hulls, suites, fine dining, helicopters and science labs.
- Ultramarine (199, with helicopters)
- World Voyager (200)
- World Navigator
- SH Minerva (158, PC5 ice hull)
- SH Vega · SH Diana
- NatGeo Endurance
Luxury Expedition
Five-star service, gourmet dining, butlers, spas and LNG hybrid-electric propulsion.
- Le Commandant Charcot (245, hybrid electric)
- Le Boréal · L’Austral · Le Soléal · Le Lyrial
Indicative investment
Prices vary significantly depending on the ship, duration and cabin category. Per person, double occupancy. Indicative ranges in USD.
| Expedition type | Range (USD) | |
|---|---|---|
| Basic Expedition Cruise | 8,000 – 12,000 | |
| Standard / Premium Expedition | 10,000 – 15,000 | |
| Fly-Cruise / Extended (Circle, Weddell) | 12,000 – 22,000+ | |
| Falklands & South Georgia / Ultra-Luxury Suites | 20,000 – 35,000+ |
Last-minute promotions: In some last-minute promotions, 10-day voyages may be found from USD 6,000–9,000 depending on cabin availability.
Note: These prices usually do not include international flights to Ushuaia or Punta Arenas, travel insurance, or personal extras.
Last Minute offers: yes, they do exist
Cruise lines may release offers 1–2 months prior to departure if cabins remain unsold. Discounts can range from 20–40% or more, especially on smaller ships or shared cabins. In Ushuaia, local agencies may offer “walk-on deals” for upcoming departures, though they are not always guaranteed. Recommendation: booking in advance allows you to secure your preferred date, category and price.
Included: standard onboard package
- Accommodation in your chosen category
- All meals and snacks onboard
- Daily Zodiac landings and cruises
- Onboard expert lecture program
- Expedition parka (yours to keep on most ships)
- Loan of waterproof boots for landings
Extra: not included
- Mandatory medical evacuation insurance
- International flights to Argentina / Chile
- Pre- and post-cruise hotels
- Optional activities (kayaking, camping)
- Crew gratuities (approx. USD 15–20 per day)
- Personal laundry and premium alcohol
Travel light: we gear you up
During the austral summer, temperatures in the Antarctic Peninsula region are generally milder than many travelers expect. Typical conditions range from approximately –5°C to +5°C (23°F to 41°F). Weather can change quickly, and wind can make temperatures feel colder: expedition travel relies on a layered clothing system.
Equipment rental in Ushuaia
Technical waterproof boots, pants, parkas, poles and dry bags delivered to your hotel. Skip heavy luggage.
Essential booking requirements
Minimum coverage including emergency medical evacuation and repatriation. USD 200,000+ recommended.
Frequently asked questions
How challenging is the Drake Passage crossing?
Most Antarctic expeditions departing from South America cross the Drake Passage, the body of water separating Cape Horn from the Antarctic Peninsula. The crossing typically takes about two days each way. Sea conditions can vary considerably. At times the Drake Passage may be relatively calm, while in other cases it can present stronger waves and winds. Expedition vessels operating in Antarctica are specifically designed for polar navigation and are equipped with stabilizers to improve comfort during the journey. For travelers who prefer to reduce sailing time, some itineraries offer fly-cruise options, where passengers fly to Antarctica and join the expedition vessel closer to the continent.
Do travelers actually go ashore in Antarctica?
Yes. Antarctic expeditions are designed to allow travelers to experience the continent directly through shore landings and zodiac excursions. Most expedition days include one or two landings or zodiac cruises, depending on weather and ice conditions. Environmental regulations require that no more than 100 passengers may be ashore at the same time, which is why most Antarctic expedition vessels carry fewer than 200 guests. This system ensures that visits are conducted in small groups with minimal environmental impact.
What does a typical expedition day look like?
Morning landing by Zodiac to explore a wildlife colony, research station, or glacier bay; return to the ship for lunch and expert lectures; afternoon landing or Zodiac cruise in a different location; and an evening recap by the expedition team. The daily program is flexible and adapted to weather, ice conditions, and wildlife opportunities.
What wildlife can be seen during an Antarctic expedition?
Common sightings include penguins such as gentoo, chinstrap, and Adélie; seals, including Weddell seals, leopard seals, crabeater seals, and Antarctic fur seals; whales, especially humpback whales and minke whales; and seabirds, including albatross, petrels, and skuas. The abundance of animals varies depending on the location and time of the season.
Why are Antarctic expeditions relatively expensive?
Travel to Antarctica requires specialized expedition vessels, experienced polar crews, and strict environmental compliance. Several factors contribute to the cost: small expedition ships, often carrying fewer than 200 passengers; specialized ice-strengthened vessels designed for polar navigation; highly trained expedition teams and naturalist guides; remote operations in one of the most isolated regions on Earth; and strict environmental standards regulated under international agreements.
What is IAATO and how do we protect Antarctica?
All expeditions follow strict environmental protocols under IAATO (International Association of Antarctica Tour Operators). Landings are conducted in small groups to minimize environmental impact. We explore, we admire, we protect: every action we take helps preserve this unique and fragile ecosystem.
Extend your adventure in Ushuaia
Discover the landscapes, wildlife and local culture at the End of the World with our most popular excursions before or after your Antarctic expedition.
Tell us which Antarctica you dream of
We remain at your full disposal to expand on any specific point and to send tailored proposals according to preferred dates, vessel category or type of experience you are looking for.
📍 Gobernador Godoy 62, Ushuaia, Argentina
💬 +54 9 2901 56-9207
✉️ antarctica@latitudushuaia.tur.ar
🌐 latitudushuaia.tur.ar