INTO THE HEART OF ANTARCTICA
from/to Ushuaia (Argentina)
12 days (11 nights)
Terra Nova Adventurer
max. 98 passengers
This extensive Antarctic expedition takes you from Ushuaia in the southernmost tip of Argentina through the legendary Drake Passage to the untamed Antarctic Peninsula. Your sturdy expedition ship will also navigate through the South Shetland Islands and beyond the Antarctic Circle.
Aboard the former supply ship St. Helena, a comfortable yet deeply authentic expedition experience awaits you. During the 12-day voyage through the tranquil Southern Ocean, you’ll come within arm’s reach of pristine ice landscapes, gigantic glaciers, and massive icebergs. The natural environment is rugged yet impressive, with a rich variety of wildlife: You’ll visit incredibly bustling colonies of Adélie, chinstrap, and gentoo penguins, or paddle a kayak through ice-filled waters past crabeater, Weddell, or leopard seals as they enjoy a relaxing sunbath on a drifting ice floe. With a little luck, you’ll be standing at the railing just as a minke or humpback whale surfaces next to the Terra Nova Adventurer, or an orca sends a plume of water shooting into the sky.
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Daily varied activities on board, on the water, and on land.
Zodiac landings and cruises open up even more opportunities to observe wildlife up close and reach shores that are only accessible by small boat. Snowshoe hikes across snow-covered slopes take you right into the heart of the Antarctic ice world. Camping on the Antarctic Peninsula and trekking toursacross untouched terrain complement the exceptionally extensive program of activities. This also includes the Polar Plunge (ice bathing, optional) and yoga on board.
The voyage is accompanied by an experienced expedition team, who not only accompany you on excursions and shore landings, but also offer interesting lectures on board about the geology, wildlife, and ecological features of Antarctica.
Your expedition ship, St. Helena, combines tradition with a pioneering spirit and is equipped with spacious observation decks, panoramic lounges, a sauna, two whirlpools, and a science lab. You will share the spacious common areas and spa facilities with a maximum of 98 fellow travelers.
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 Terra Nova Adventurer offers eleven single cabins specifically for solo travelers, which are available at no additional charge. You also have the option of sharing a three- or four-berth cabin with other solo travelers of the same gender.
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
- Crossing the Antarctic Circle (depending on weather and ice conditions)
- Spectacular straits such as Gerlache Strait, Errera Channel, and Lemaire Channel, lined by mountains up to 1,000 meters high
- Zodiac excursions and landings for a close-up experience of Antarctic landscapes and marine wildlife
- Possible sightings of humpback whales, minke whales, and orcas, as well as Adelie, chinstrap, and gentoo penguins, crabeater and Weddell seals, leopard seals, and petrels.
- Exciting onboard lectures by polar experts on topics such as wildlife in Antarctica, glaciology, and history
- Opportunity for a polar plunge (ice bathing)
- Exceptionally wide range of optional activities such as snowshoeing, kayaking, trekking, and yoga
route
itinerary
Advance information
Your arrival and departure from/to Ushuaia (Argentina) 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 Terra Nova Adventurer – Embarkation in Ushuaia
In the afternoon, you’ll board the ship, where your experienced expedition team and expert guides will welcome you aboard. After you’ve settled into your cabin, the Terra Nova Adventurer will set course through theBeagle Channel. As your Antarctic expedition begins, you’ll be treated to breathtaking scenery featuring rugged coastlines and steep cliffs.
Day 2 to 3: Heading south through the Drake Passage
The crossing of the legendary Drake Passage, named after Sir Francis Drake, takes you through a region with exceptional biodiversity. Where cold polar waters meet warmer currents, a diverse ecosystem emerges that attracts numerous seabirds such as albatrosses and petrels.
Thanks to your ship's open bridge policy, you can spend time on the bridge, look over the officers' shoulders, learn more about navigation, watch for whales, or simply enjoy the vast horizon. At the same time, the lecture team provides background information on the history, geology, and wildlife of Antarctica.
Sometime on day 3, the South Shetland Islands appear on the horizon – remote islands first discovered in 1819 by Captain William Smith. If conditions are favorable, this is often where the first shore landing takes place, where you will probably encounter penguins and seals for the first time.
Days 4 to 9: Exploration of the Antarctic Peninsula & Crossing the Antarctic Circle
The Antarctic Peninsula and South Shetland Islands reveal a world of mighty icebergs, pristine glaciers, and dramatic rocky landscapes, defining the polar wilderness in its purest form.
Possible highlights of the core stage of your Antarctic expedition:
- Kayaking: Calm, icy waters provide the backdrop for trips between sculpted icebergs, curious seals, and diving penguins.
- Snowshoe hikes: Impressive routes lead over snow-covered ridges and glacial terrain to extraordinary vantage points.
- Penguin colonies: In sprawling colonies of gentoo, chinstrap, and Adélie penguins, visitors can watch the birds caring for their chicks.
- Encounters with wildlife: Sightings ofWeddell seals, crabeater seals, and leopard seals resting on the ice, as wellas frequent sightings of minke whales and humpback whales foraging in the surrounding waters.
- Zodiac cruises: Trips through ice-filled bays allow close encounters with wildlife and diverse ice formations.
- Stunning waterways: Among the absolute highlights are some of Antarctica’s most famous passages, including the Gerlache Strait, the Errera Channel, and the Lemaire Channel—which is aptly nicknamed the “Kodak Gap”: The scenery here is among the most spectacular on the entire 7th continent.
There are over 500 potential landing sites along the Antarctic Peninsula, making every trip unique. The expedition team always puts together the exact program flexibly – depending on conditions, weather, and the best opportunities for wildlife viewing. Their in-depth knowledge of this region ensures that you experience true voyages of discovery and reach destinations beyond the usual routes.
For animal lovers, there are always memorable moments: sightings of Adélie, gentoo, and chinstrap penguins, crabeater and Weddell seals, leopard seals, as well as minke, humpback, and orca whales hunting in the nutrient-rich waters are the highlights of this ship-based expedition. The route continues southward—with the goal of reaching the Antarctic Circle.
Days 10 to 11: Northward through the Drake Passage
Leaving the icy wilderness behind marks the beginning of your return journey through the Drake Passage. Here, you can reflect on the experiences and impressions of the past few days in complete seclusion.
You may have one last chance to go ashore or take a Zodiac ride. Weather and ice conditions will determine the day’s itinerary and possible destinations. Perhaps the route will take you to Brown Bluff, where steep cliffs tower over a colony of Adélie penguins. Or you might head to Paulet Island, an island with historic sites and a rich variety of wildlife.
The last lectures and workshops are on the agenda on board, while you can find moments of peace and quiet on the outer decks. With a little luck, you may see various seabirds or marine mammals again.
Your Antarctic expedition concludes with a convivial farewell dinner on the last evening – an atmospheric setting in which to bring this intense journey to a close.
Day 12: Arrival at the port of Ushuaia
Early in the morning, your ship will arrive back in Ushuaia. After breakfast, you will disembark. You will take with you memories of a journey to the most remote and southernmost regions of the earth, which will linger in your mind for a long time to come.
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
kayaking
Experience an unforgettable adventure on a kayaking expedition in Antarctica. Glide silently through calm, crystal-clear waters, surrounded by imposing icebergs and spectacular landscapes. This environmentally friendly activity allows you to encounter seals, penguins, and, with a little luck, even whales, while exploring remote channels and secluded bays.
Kayaking allows you to connect with the pristine beauty of Antarctica in a special way, combining the thrill of discovery with moments of quiet contemplation. Under the guidance of experienced experts, you will navigate responsibly through this fragile ecosystem.
The activity is included in the travel package, is weather dependent, and must be booked in advance.
Polar Plunge (ice bathing)
Experience pure adrenaline with the Polar Plunge in Antarctica—a unique adventure that you are guaranteed to remember for a long time to come. Under the safe guidance of the expedition team, you can optionally dive into the ice-cold waters of the white continent. Surrounded by imposing glaciers and dramatic landscapes, this unique moment is guaranteed to be accompanied by thrills.
Whether as a personal challenge or to cross a special experience off your bucket list, the Polar Plunge is one of the most intense experiences in the heart of Antarctica.
Please note that this experience is subject to weather and conditions.
Snowshoe tours
Snowshoeing in Antarctica offers a unique opportunity to experience the untouched terrain of the 7th continent up close. Equipped with snowshoes, you can easily traverse soft snowfields and gentle slopes to reach remote areas that would otherwise be difficult to access on foot.
Under the guidance of experienced guides, you will discover impressive glaciers and fascinating ice formations while protecting the fragile natural environment. Peaceful, intense, and overwhelmingly beautiful—snowshoe hikes add a peaceful yet exciting dimension to your Antarctic journey.
The activity is included in the tour price, is weather dependent, and must be booked in advance.
yoga
Experience peace and tranquility amid the icy expanses of Antarctica with complimentary yoga and stretching workshops on board. The sessions are suitable for both beginners and advanced practitioners and combine gentle movement with mindfulness to recharge your batteries after eventful days of exploration.
Under the guidance of experienced instructors, you can expect stretching exercises to relieve tension and basic yoga practices that heighten your awareness of the pristine surroundings. Depending on the weather, sessions take place in a quiet indoor area or occasionally outdoors, offering the perfect combination of relaxation and vitality in the heart of Antarctica.
The workshops are dependent on weather and conditions.
trekking
Antarctic trekking allows you to experience the untouched wilderness of the white continent in a particularly intense way. Under the guidance of experienced expedition leaders, you will explore remote, snow-covered trails and impressive landscapes that few travelers ever get to see.
The routes vary depending on the landing site and weather conditions and are suitable for different fitness and experience levels. With every step, you will immerse yourself deeper into the tranquil beauty of Antarctica and experience its unique wildlife and impressive panoramas up close.
The trekking tours are dependent on weather and conditions.
DATES & PRICES
Request your trip here!
Submit questions via email Arrange a callback Call now: +49 201 85890960
or please select your preferred date
February 14, 2027 – February 25, 2027
Starting at €9,747 per person
12 days/11 nights
Terra Nova Adventurer
Ushuaia, Argentina Ushuaia, Argentina
Includes snowshoeing, photography workshop, polar plunge, and kayaking
February 25, 2028 – March 7, 2028
Starting at €9,711 per person
12 days/11 nights
Terra Nova Adventurer
Ushuaia, Argentina Ushuaia, Argentina
Includes snowshoeing, photography workshop, polar plunge, and kayaking
Selected date
February 14, 2027 – February 25, 2027 (12 days/11 nights)
Terra Nova Adventurer | Setting Out for the South Polar Circle
Discovery Four-Bed Cabin
Discovery Triple Cabin
Superior Cabin
Superior Single Cabin
Deluxe Cabin
Premium Suite
cabin
options
personal data
By clicking on the "Request now" button, you agree to the Processing of your personal data to complete the reservation.
Summary
activities
Selected date
February 25, 2028 – March 7, 2028 (12 days/11 nights)
Terra Nova Adventurer | Setting Out for the South Polar Circle
Discovery Four-Bed Cabin
Discovery Triple Cabin
Superior Cabin
Superior Single Cabin
Deluxe Cabin
Premium Suite
cabin
options
personal data
By clicking on the "Request now" button, you agree to the Processing of your personal data to complete the reservation.
Summary
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, 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
- Items not listed: Anything not listed under "Included services"
- Additional accommodation options
- Tips for the expedition team
- Transfers on arrival and departure
- 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/Wi-Fi: Internet access is available on board for casual browsing. For more intensive use, prepaid data cards can be used. Please note that some streaming services are blocked on board. Since the Terra Nova Adventurer travels through remote regions, the Internet connection may be limited at times.
- A Heart for Solo Travelers: The Terra Nova Adventurer offers eleven single cabins specifically for solo travelers, which are available at no additional charge. You also have the option of sharing a triple or quadruple cabin with other solo travelers of the same gender. If you’d like to occupy a cabin that isn’t designated as a single cabin on your own, please don’t hesitate to contact us. We’ll be happy to assist you.
Your ship during the voyage
Your Ship: The Terra Nova Adventurer
Click here for deck plans, cabin categories, facts & figures
> View here
departure-antarctic-circle_zodiac-seal_terra-nova-expeditions
Seal spotting on a Zodiac tour
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Adelie penguins sunbathe
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gentoo penguins
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A young Weddell seal
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Spectacular views
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Trekking in Antarctica
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View of drift ice
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Zodiac tour
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To remote bays by zodiac
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Polar Plunge
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Antarctica in soft light
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