CLASSIC ANTARCTIC EXPEDITION
from/to Ushuaia (Argentina)
10 days (9 nights)
St. Helena
10-day Antarctic ship expedition from/to Ushuaia (Argentina) to the South Shetland Islands and along the northwest coast of the Antarctic Peninsula
This expedition aboard the St Helena offers the full Antarctic experience in just ten days. Ideal for travel enthusiasts with limited time or a long bucket list! You will venture into the heart of Antarctica, where majestic ice landscapes and fascinating wildlife await you. For literally "up-close" encounters with the terrain and wildlife , you'll go kayaking among icebergs, snowshoeing across untouched snowfields, and Zodiac rides through icy waters.
The mirror-smooth Southern Ocean with its mysterious depths and seemingly endless clear light, which creates fantastic reflections. Plus a wide range of activities such as trekking, camping, or even sailing.
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The St. Helena is a sturdy ship with spacious decks, panoramic lounges, two Jacuzzis, a sauna, and a fully equipped science lab. The experienced expedition team accompanies you on all activities, gives expert lectures on the history, wildlife, and geology of Antarctica, and ensures that every landing and wildlife encounter is unforgettable.
With over 500 possible landing sites along the Antarctic Peninsula, the experienced crew develops the ideal route for unique wildlife viewing and scenic highlights, taking into account the current weather and ice conditions. But it's not just about watching – you'll really feel it when you dare to take the Polar Plunge (ice bathing, optional)! Or participate in other optional activities such as camping or a sailing trip in Antarctica (extra cost).
Stephanie Gräf
Travel expert, inventia | Travel beyond the ordinary
Specialist in travel to the Arctic and Antarctic.
I am your contact person for questions and bookings relating to the Arctic and Antarctic, and I am delighted that you are one of the few people who are traveling to the ends of the earth.
You can reach me by phone or email:
+49 (0)201 858 90 960
welcome@inventia.de
Good to know
Arrival and departure: We offer a variety of customized travel packages including flights, hotels, transfers, and activities. We are also happy to suggest pre- and post-programs in Argentina, Chile, and Uruguay to extend your trip.
Attention solo travelers: The St Helena offers single cabins specifically for solo travelers. It is also possible to share a twin, triple, or quadruple cabin with other solo travelers of the same gender to save on the single cabin supplement.
Entry requirements: German citizens need only a passport (valid for 6 months beyond the date of return) to enter Argentina.
Insurance: Proof of international health insurance covering medical repatriationmust be provided.
Medical questionnaire:You are required to completea medical questionnaire before departure.
HIGHLIGHTS
- Crossing the legendary Drake Passage with its rich marine life in the Antarctic Convergence Zone
- Zodiac excursions and kayaking for a close-up experience of Antarctic landscapes and marine wildlife
- Guided snowshoe tours across undeveloped terrain to spectacular viewpoints
- Possible sightings of humpback whales, minke whales, and orcas, as well as Adelie, chinstrap, and gentoo penguins, crabeater and Weddell seals, and petrels.
- Exciting onboard lectures by polar experts on topics such as wildlife in Antarctica, glaciology, and history
- Historic sites of early Antarctic expeditions on Paulet Island (landing possible depending on weather conditions)
- Opportunity for a polar plunge (ice bathing)
- Photography guide on board
- Wide range of optional activities such as camping, sailing, or trekking
route
itinerary
Advance information
Your arrival and departure from/to Ushuaia are not included in your tour price.
Since our customers all have individual wishes for their trip, we are happy to book flights separately. Of course, the flights then become part of a secure package tour. We recommend an overnight stay in Ushuaia to cushion any irregularities with your flight or lost luggage. We are happy to organize everything for you on request. Please contact us.
Day 1: Welcome aboard the St Helena – Embarkation in Ushuaia
In the afternoon, you will board the expedition ship St Helena, where you will meet your crew and fellow travelers. After settling into your cabin, the ship will set sail and travel through the picturesque Beagle Channel. Enjoy your first evening at sea as the southernmost tip of South America gradually disappears on the horizon.
Day 2 to 3: Through the Drake Passage
Over the next two days, you will cross the infamous Drake Passage. Here, at the Antarctic Convergence, cold, nutrient-rich waters from the Antarctic meet the warmer sub-Antarctic waters, creating an exceptionally vibrant ecosystem – a hotspot for wildlife viewing.
During the voyage, your team of experts will give lectures on the history, wildlife, and geology of Antarctica. From the outer decks or the bridge, you will have the opportunity to observe albatrosses, shearwaters, and, with a little luck, whales. Activities such as navigation workshops and safety briefings for kayaking and snowshoeing will also take place.
Towards the end of the third day, the South Shetland Islands announce their arrival with the first icebergs and snow-covered peaks in the distance.
Days 4 to 7: Exploring along the Antarctic Peninsula
Off the Antarctic Peninsula and the South Shetland Islands , you will explore one of the world's most remote wilderness regions up close with shore excursions, Zodiac rides, and other optional activities.
Highlights:
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Kayaking among icebergs: gently paddling through calm waters, past seals on floating ice floes and penguins diving into the water.
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Snowshoe hikes: Tours to vantage points offering breathtaking views of glaciers and mountain peaks.
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Visit bustlingcolonies of gentoo penguins, chinstrap penguins, and Adélie penguins raising their chicks and bravely jumping into the water to search for food.
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Intense wildlife viewing: sightings of Weddell, crabeater, and leopard seals on the ice or hunting in the water. Minke and humpback whales can also often be observed feeding.
With over 500 possible landing sites along the Antarctic Peninsula, no two expeditions are alike. Your team of experts will tailor each trip flexibly to the weather conditions and opportunities for extraordinary encounters. You will traverse ice-filled channels and get up close to impressive glaciers.
Day 8: Antarctic Sound
On the return journey north, depending on weather and ice conditions, there may be an opportunity for a final shore excursion or Zodiac ride. Possible destinations include Brown Bluff with its imposing cliffs and a colony of Adelie penguins, or Paulet Island, known for its historical sites and home to crabeater seals, giant petrels, and another large Adelie penguin colony.
Day 9: Back through the Drake Passage
On the return journey through the Drake Passage, you can reflect on your Antarctic experiences while keeping an eye out for seabirds and whales. There is the opportunity to take part in final lectures or workshops before a festive dinner with your fellow travelers rounds off your trip in culinary style.
Day 10: Arrival in Ushuaia
Early in the morning, you will arrive in Ushuaia, where you will disembark after breakfast.
The daily programs described here are for your guidance. The itinerary may vary considerably due to local ice and weather conditions, last-minute permit procedures, and local authorities, but also to respond to current conditions regarding wildlife viewing.Theexpedition leader on board will determine the final itinerary and daily program. Flexibility is of utmost importance during our expedition-style voyages.
activities
camping
An unforgettable experience for true adventurers: a night under the open sky on the Antarctic continent —surrounded by silence, untouched landscape, and the rugged beauty of the white continent.
This unique experience is included in the tour price, but is limited to only 40 guests per departure. Camping is done with expedition-grade bivvy equipment for a safe and comfortable night on the ice.
Camping is a rare opportunity to experience Antarctica in its purest and most powerful form. This option is available on selected departures. Due to limited space, early registration at the time of booking is recommended.
kayaking
Experience the adventure of a lifetime on a kayaking expedition in Antarctica. Glide through calm, crystal-clear waters surrounded by majestic icebergs and breathtaking scenery. This eco-friendly activity allows you to encounter animals such as seals, penguins, and, with a little luck, even whales, while exploring remote channels and pristine bays.
Kayaking creates a special connection to the untouched beauty of Antarctica, combining the thrill of discovery with moments of quiet reflection. Accompanied by experienced experts, you will navigate responsibly through this fragile ecosystem.
The included activity must be booked in advance and is subject to weather and conditions.
Polar Plunge (ice bathing)
Experience the ultimate adrenaline rush with a polar plunge in Antarctica —a once-in-a-lifetime adventure that is guaranteed to take your breath away. As an exciting optional activity, you can dive into the ice-cold Antarctic waters under the safe guidance of the expedition team. Surrounded by majestic glaciers and dramatic landscapes, you will feel the pure thrill of this unique experience.
Whether as a personal challenge or to cross a special adventure off your bucket list, the Polar Plunge promises an unforgettable moment in the heart of the white continent.
Please note that this included optional experience is subject to weather and conditions.
Snowshoe tours
Snowshoeing in Antarctica offers a unique opportunity to experience the continent's untouched terrain up close. With snowshoes on your feet, you can traverse soft snowfields and gentle slopes to reach remote areas that would otherwise be inaccessible on foot.
Led by experienced guides, this gentle activity takes you to impressive glaciers and surreal ice formations, while preserving the untouched natural environment. Calm, intense, and breathtakingly beautiful, snowshoeing adds a peaceful yet incredibly exciting dimension to your Antarctic experience.
Included activity, must be booked in advance, subject to weather and conditions.
yoga
Experience peace and tranquility amid the icy expanses with free yoga and stretching workshops on board. The sessions are suitable for beginners and advanced practitioners alike, combining mindfulness with gentle movement to recharge your batteries after eventful days of exploration.
Under the guidance of experienced instructors, the workshops include guided stretching exercises to release tension and basic yoga practices that deepen your connection to the pristine environment. Depending on the weather, sessions take place in a quiet indoor area or occasionally outdoors, offering the perfect combination of relaxation and vitality amid the untouched wilderness of Antarctica.
Dependent on weather and conditions.
photography workshop
Take part in a free photography workshop in Antarctica. The workshop includes a theoretical lecture by an experienced photographer, who will give valuable tips on how to perfectly capture the breathtaking landscapes and wildlife of Antarctica.
During shore excursions and on the spacious outdoor decks, the photographer will be on hand to offer practical assistance and show you the best compositions for your photos. Whether you are a beginner or an experienced photographer, this workshop is a creative and enriching experience amid the spectacular scenery of Antarctica.
Dependent on weather and conditions.
trekking
Antarctic trekking brings you particularly close to the untouched wilderness of the white continent. Led by experienced expedition staff, you will explore remote snow-covered trails and dramatic landscapes that few travelers ever set foot on.
The trekking routes vary depending on the landing site and weather conditions, offering trails for different fitness and experience levels. With every step, you will immerse yourself deeper into the tranquil beauty of Antarctica, encountering its unique wildlife and breathtaking panoramas up close.
Dependent on weather and conditions.
day sailing trip
Embark on an exclusive day sailing trip aboard the Icebird. Designed for just eight passengers, this highly private experience allows you to explore hidden corners of Antarctica —from secluded bays and majestic icebergs to wild coastlines inaccessible to larger ships.
Under the guidance of experienced guides, you will enjoy an even more personal and peaceful connection to the white continent and sail sustainably through its pristine waters. Due to limited space and high demand, early booking is strongly recommended. Please note that the exact sailing day is weather dependent and will only be confirmed during the trip.
Must be booked in advance at an additional cost, subject to weather and conditions. Only available on the following departures:
16.01.2027
08.01.2028
17.01.2028
DATES & PRICES
Request your trip here!
Submit questions via email Arrange a callback Call now: +49 201 85890960
or please select your preferred date
December 9, 2026 – December 18, 2026
From €7,990 €7,351 per person
10 days/9 nights
St. Helena (Maximum occupancy: 98)
Ushuaia, Argentina Ushuaia, Argentina
Includes camping, snowshoeing, polar plunge, photography workshop, and kayaking
December 28, 2026 – January 6, 2027
from $0 $7,351 per person
10 days/9 nights
St. Helena (Maximum occupancy: 98)
Ushuaia, Argentina Ushuaia, Argentina
Includes camping, snowshoeing, polar plunge, photography workshop, and kayaking
Optional extra, subject to a fee: Day sailing trip
New Year's Eve trip
January 16, 2027 – January 25, 2027
From €9,290 €8,547 per person
10 days/9 nights
St. Helena (Maximum occupancy: 98)
Ushuaia, Argentina Ushuaia, Argentina
Includes camping, snowshoeing, polar plunge, photography workshop, and kayaking
Optional extra, subject to a fee: Day sailing trip
December 11, 2027 – December 20, 2027
From €8,490 €7,811 per person
10 days/9 nights
St. Helena (Maximum occupancy: 98)
Ushuaia, Argentina Ushuaia, Argentina
Includes camping, snowshoeing, polar plunge, photography workshop, and kayaking
December 20, 2027 – December 29, 2027
From €8,490 €7,811 per person
10 days/9 nights
St. Helena (Maximum occupancy: 98)
Ushuaia, Argentina Ushuaia, Argentina
Includes camping, snowshoeing, polar plunge, photography workshop, and kayaking
January 8, 2028 – January 17, 2028
From €9,740 €8,961 per person
10 days/9 nights
St. Helena (Maximum occupancy: 98)
Ushuaia, Argentina Ushuaia, Argentina
Includes camping, snowshoeing, polar plunge, photography workshop, and kayaking
Optional extra, subject to a fee: Day sailing trip
January 17, 2028 – January 26, 2028
From €9,740 €8,961 per person
10 days/9 nights
St. Helena (Maximum occupancy: 98)
Ushuaia, Argentina Ushuaia, Argentina
Includes camping, snowshoeing, polar plunge, photography workshop, and kayaking
Optional extra, subject to a fee: Day sailing trip
Selected date
December 9, 2026 – December 18, 2026 (10 days/9 nights)
St. Helena | Pure Antarctica for active explorers
Discovery Quad
Discovery Triple
Odyssey Twin
Odyssey Single
superior
Deluxe
premium
Owner's Suite
cabin
options
| Camping (included) | ||
| Person(s) | ||
personal data
By clicking on the "Request now" button, you agree to the Processing of your personal data to complete the reservation.
Summary
optional activities
Selected date
December 28, 2026 – January 6, 2027 (10 days/9 nights)
St Helena | Pure Antarctica for active explorers - New Year's Eve trip
Discovery Quad
Discovery Triple
Odyssey Twin
Odyssey Single
superior
Deluxe
premium
Owner's Suite
cabin
options
| Camping (included) | ||
| Person(s) | ||
| Day sailing trip (price per person) | ||
| Person(s) | 1 295,00 € | |
personal data
By clicking on the "Request now" button, you agree to the Processing of your personal data to complete the reservation.
Summary
optional activities
Selected date
January 16, 2027 – January 25, 2027 (10 days/9 nights)
St. Helena | Pure Antarctica for active explorers
Discovery Quad
Discovery Triple
Odyssey Twin
Odyssey Single
superior
Deluxe
premium
Owner's Suite
cabin
options
| Camping (included) | ||
| Person(s) | ||
| Day sailing trip (price per person) | ||
| Person(s) | 1 295,00 € | |
personal data
By clicking on the "Request now" button, you agree to the Processing of your personal data to complete the reservation.
Summary
optional activities
Selected date
December 11, 2027 – December 20, 2027 (10 days/9 nights)
St. Helena | Pure Antarctica for active explorers
Discovery Quad
Discovery Triple
Odyssey Twin
Odyssey Single
superior
Deluxe
premium
Owner's Suite
cabin
options
| Camping (included) | ||
| Person(s) | ||
personal data
By clicking on the "Request now" button, you agree to the Processing of your personal data to complete the reservation.
Summary
optional activities
Selected date
December 20, 2027 – December 29, 2027 (10 days/9 nights)
St. Helena | Pure Antarctica for active explorers
Discovery Quad
Discovery Triple
Odyssey Twin
Odyssey Single
superior
Deluxe
premium
Owner's Suite
cabin
options
| Camping (included) | ||
| Person(s) | ||
personal data
By clicking on the "Request now" button, you agree to the Processing of your personal data to complete the reservation.
Summary
optional activities
Selected date
January 8, 2028 – January 17, 2028 (10 days/9 nights)
St. Helena | Pure Antarctica for active explorers
Discovery Quad
Discovery Triple
Odyssey Twin
Odyssey Single
superior
Deluxe
premium
Owner's Suite
cabin
options
| Camping (included) | ||
| Person(s) | ||
| Day sailing trip (price per person) | ||
| Person(s) | 1 395,00 € | |
personal data
By clicking on the "Request now" button, you agree to the Processing of your personal data to complete the reservation.
Summary
optional activities
Selected date
January 17, 2028 – January 26, 2028 (10 days/9 nights)
St. Helena | Pure Antarctica for active explorers
Discovery Quad
Discovery Triple
Odyssey Twin
Odyssey Single
superior
Deluxe
premium
Owner's Suite
cabin
options
| Camping (included) | ||
| Person(s) | ||
| Day sailing trip (price per person) | ||
| Person(s) | 1 395,00 € | |
personal data
By clicking on the "Request now" button, you agree to the Processing of your personal data to complete the reservation.
Summary
optional activities
Information
Included services:
- Accommodation on board with daily housekeeping
- Daily meals, snacks, tea, coffee, as well as house beer, soft drinks, and wine with lunch and dinner
- Guided hikes, daily shore excursions, and Zodiac rides
- Kayaking, snowshoeing, camping, polar plunging (ice bathing), trekking, and yoga (weather and organizational permitting)
- Support from an expedition team of experienced tour guides
- Lectures on board
- Expedition equipment: Rental rubber boots and a waterproof/windproof jacket
- Access to the ship's doctor and infirmary
- Comprehensive travel documents and Antarctic handbook
- Port fees and fees for permits and landings
- Basic Wi-Fi (upgrades available for a fee)
- Tips for the crew
Not included in the price:
- International airline tickets
- Passport and visa fees, unlisted government arrival and departure taxes
- Luggage, trip cancellation, trip interruption, and travel health insurance – highly recommended
- Excess baggage fees on international and domestic flights
- Mandatory waterproof pants for Zodiac landings and cruise excursions, or other equipment not mentioned
- Personal expenses, e.g., at the bar or boutique (only cash payments in EUR or USD accepted)
- Meals ashore: Meals that are not provided on board the ship
- Beverages: Alcoholic beverages and soft drinks outside of lunch and dinner.
- additional excursions, e.g. optional day sailing trip
- Items not listed: Anything not listed under "Included services."
- Additional accommodation options
- Tips for the expedition team
- Transfers on arrival and departure
Important:
- Language spoken on board: English
- English-speaking expedition team
- Completing a questionnaire, medical certificate, cruise contract, and flight information form is mandatory.
- There is a doctor on board.
- Open bridge
- The route and final itinerary during the voyage will be decided on site by the expedition leader and captain based on ice and weather conditions, as well as opportunities for wildlife viewing. The itinerary described here is for illustrative purposes only.
- Proof of international health insurance with medical repatriation must be provided.
- The trip is not suitable for people with limited mobility.
- Internet/WiFi: Internet access is available on board for simple surfing. Prepaid data cards can be used for more intensive use. Please note that some streaming services are blocked on board. As the St Helena travels in remote regions, the internet connection may be limited at times.
- A heart for solo travelers: The St Helena offers single cabins specifically for solo travelers. It is also possible to share a twin, triple, or quadruple cabin with other solo travelers of the same gender to save on the single cabin supplement. If you would like to occupy a cabin that is not designated as a single cabin on your own, please do not hesitate to contact us. We will be happy to help you.
Your ship during the voyage
st-helena_ship-view-1_terra-nova-expedition
The St Helena in drift ice
Antarctica Pure_Eselpenguins_Terra Nova Expeditions
Gentoo penguins on the Antarctic Peninsula
Antarctica-Pure_Landing_Terra Nova Expeditions
trekking
antarctica-pure_landscape_terra-nova-expeditions
Drift ice off the coast
Antarctica Pure_Zodiac_Terra Nova Expeditions
Zodiac excursion
Antarctic-Pure_Trekking_Terra Nova Expeditions
snowshoe hike
Antarctic-Pure_Polar Plunge_Terra Nova Expeditions
Polar Plunge
Antarctic Pure Sailing Icebird Terra Nova Expeditions
Sailing trip with the Icebird
Antarctica-Pure_Kayaking_Terra Nova Expeditions
kayaking
Antarctica-Pure_Humpback_Whale_AdobeStock_786754473
Encounter with a humpback whale
Antarctica-Pure_Weddell seal_Fotolia_65627250_M
A young Weddell seal
antarctica-pure_gentoo-penguins-1_terra-nova-expeditions
Busy gentoo penguins
Sounds interesting?
You can book your trip here
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