Best of Antarctica’s Whale Season
12 Days / 10 Nights On Board
Ushuaia to Ushuaia
One More Day in This Whale Lover’s Paradise
Antarctica during peak whale spotting season is something truly special. If only you could have just one more day with these magnificent and often elusive creatures. On this expedition, you can. While every voyage into Antarctica is a wildlife lover’s dream journey, with a variety of iconic penguins, a number of seal species, and Antarctica’s always-majestic icebergs within everyday view, this voyage features an extra day in the company of the incomparable Humpback, any number of whom will be feeding on the abundance of krill in the water this time of year. Orcas and Minkes are also common sightings, adding yet another bonus to this very special expedition.
Expedition Dates
| Ship | Arrive | Board | Disembark |
|---|---|---|---|
| Discoverer | Mar 4, 2027 | Mar 5, 2027 | Mar 15, 2027 |
Activities: Kayaking, Photography, Citizen Science
Itinerary Overview
- Day 1: Arrive in & Explore Ushuaia
- Day 2: Embarkation
- Days 3-4: Drake Passage
- Day 5-6: South Shetland Islands
- Day 7-9: Antarctica (and whales) await
- Day 10-11: Drake Passage
- Day 12: Disembarkation
Day 1: Arrive and Explore in Ushuaia
After a friendly welcome at the airport, we'll transfer you to one of our partnered premium hotel resorts nestled in the breathtaking Patagonian nature, where you can take some time to unwind or go explore the southernmost city in the world, Ushuaia.
Our optional evening briefing is your opportunity to ask questions and meet some of your fellow explorers.
Day 2: All Aboard!
Spend your morning relaxing at the hotel, visiting a museum, or exploring the shops in Ushuaia, before our mid-afternoon escort to the ship. Our Expedition Team and ship staff will welcome you on board and get you settled in, followed by a safety and orientation briefing and our Captain’s welcome dinner. We’re on our way to Antarctica!
Days 3–4: Drake Passage
Join our Polar Experts as they share their vast knowledge of Antarctica, from its enchanting wildlife to its bold history. Participate in our pioneering Citizen Science program or sit back and take in this fabled journey while catching glimpses of rarely seen wildlife. Keep your binoculars handy to identify the many seabirds that escort our ship as we cross the Antarctic Convergence into Antarctica’s waters and noticeably cooler temperatures.
Days 5–6: South Shetland Islands
The South Shetlands are 12 islands separated from the Antarctic Peninsula by the Bransfield Strait. Significant volcanic activity has sculpted a geology – and a diverse natural beauty – unlike anywhere else on Earth. Here, you can expect a spectacular display of mountains, glaciers, and wildlife, including Chinstrap and Gentoo penguins, and it’s not uncommon to share the water’s edge with Elephant and Fur seals. And this time of year is feeding time for Humpback whales, so don’t be surprised if you’re joined by a number of them on your day’s adventure.
Days 7–9: Antarctica (and Whales) Await
On to the Antarctic Peninsula, where we’ll explore any number of stunning bays and famed landing sites, maneuvering through majestic channels as we continue to navigate these wildlife-rich waters, passing any number of glorious icebergs, on our way to historic landing sites and perhaps even an active scientific base. Of course, a particular highlight of this voyage is the privilege of spending an extra day in the company of the giant Humpback whale – or many of them! – feeding on the abundance of krill in the water this time of year. Orcas and Minkes are also common sightings, as are a variety of penguins and seals.
Days 10–11: Drake Passage
We leave this magical place and make our way north, once again crossing the legendary Drake Passage. We have one last hurrah as we celebrate the conclusion of our expedition with a special slideshow and a final meal together.
Day 12: Ushuaia Disembarkation
With huge smiles on weary, content faces, we disembark in the morning, letting you catch a flight to Buenos Aires or stay in Ushuaia for more sights and adventure.
Whale Watching in Antarctica
| Ship | Starting From | Availability | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Mar 4, 2027 | Discoverer | N/A | Book Now! |
Activities
(available on select departures)
- Discover Kayaking ($350)
Book in advance – pay on board
- Immersive Kayaking ($1195)
- Immersive Photography ($495)
Book and pay in advance - 20% deposit
- Citizen Science (Included)
Sign up on board
- Photography Coach (included)
Available to all
Important Details
Prices based on twin occupancy except for Singles (1), Triples (3), and the Brynhilde Suite (4). A limited number of twin cabins may be sold for single occupancy at 1.7 times the twin rate.
Traveling With a Group?
Reach out to our Sales team to inquire about groups of 10 or more.
Rates vary by cabin.
A Boutique Vessel, with an Expedition Soul
Refined to deliver a superior level of personalized service and contemporary luxury, yet agile enough to access remote coastlines and wildlife encounters that larger vessels cannot reach, Discoverer was built for the challenges and opportunities that only the polar regions can offer. Carrying just 140 guests, it strikes the perfect balance between comfort and capability. And with an 1A rating and full Polar Code compliance, this ship will take you places lesser ships simply can't go. Discoverer features outside-facing staterooms across all categories (many with balconies or Juliet balconies), a wrap-around outer deck on Deck 6 perfect for wildlife viewing and photography, and al fresco dining at the Outdoor Grill when conditions allow.
All Voyages Include:
- Certified Medical Clinic with onboard medical staff
- World-class international cuisine in the ship's restaurant
- Expedition lecture program with expert team presentations
- Fleet of Zodiacs for shore landings and wildlife cruising
- Wi-Fi access throughout the ship
- Complimentary in-cabin refreshments (soft drinks, juice, and sparkling water)
Ship Facilities:
- Elevator serving passenger decks
- Fitness Center with modern equipment and ocean views
- Wellness Center with sauna, steam room, and treatment room
- Observation Lounge with panoramic windows
- Lecture Theater
- Boutique and Library
- Outdoor Jacuzzis
- Expedition Office and Mudroom
All Staterooms Feature:
- Exterior views (balcony, Juliet balcony, picture window, or porthole depending on category)
- Sitting area with writing desk
- Mini bar and refrigerator
- Flat-screen TV with Interactive Media Library
- Direct dial telephone
- Fitted wardrobe with personal safe
- Individually controlled air conditioning
- Luxury bath amenities and hair dryer
- Bathrobes and slippers
- 110/220V AC power outlets
