Whale Season in Antarctica
11 Days / 9 Nights On Board
Ushuaia to Ushuaia
Penguins, Seals, Icebergs… and an Amazing Display of Whales
Every voyage into Antarctica is a wildlife lover’s dream journey. And this trip will certainly be no different. Expect to encounter a variety of iconic penguins, any number of different seal species, and Antarctica’s always-majestic icebergs. But this voyage will feature one notable exception to the rule: This time of year, whale spotting is at its entertaining best, with large numbers of giant Humpbacks feeding on the abundance of krill in the water. Orcas and Minkes are also common sightings on this very special voyage into the last truly wild place on Earth.
Activities: Kayaking, Photography, Citizen Science
Expedition Dates
Itinerary Overview
- Day 1: Arrive in & Explore Ushuaia
- Day 2: Embarkation
- Days 3-4: Drake Passage
- Days 5-6,: South Shetland Islands
- Days 7-8: Antarctica
- Days 9-10 : Drake Passage
- Day 11: 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 7–8: Antarctica (and Whales) Await
On to the Antarctic Peninsula, where we’ll explore any number of stunning bays and famed harbors, maneuvering through majestic channels as we continue to travel these wildlife-rich waters, passing a number of glorious icebergs along the way. We’ll have great opportunities to stop at several active scientific bases and historic landing sites as we direct our attention and our cameras toward numerous species of penguins, seals, and whales along the rugged coastlines and in the sea. As always throughout this journey, be on the lookout for the impressive population of Humpback, Minke, and Orca whales feeding in the water.
Days 9–10: 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 11: 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
Activities
Sign up at time of booking - 20% non-refundable deposit required.
Sign up on board. Available to all guests on all voyages.
Important Details
Prices quoted are per-person based on double/triple occupancy. A limited number of twin suites 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, the 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
