Helicopter experiences in the Weddell Sea

Intensive ship expedition to the eastern side of the Antarctic Peninsula with panoramic flights

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SHIP EXPEDITION TO THE WEDDELL SEA WITH HELICOPTER FLIGHTS

from/to Buenos Aires

12 days (11 nights)

ultramarine

12-day ship expedition to the eastern side of the Antarctic Peninsula and into the Weddell Sea | With panoramic flights and landings with on-board helicopters

+++ Up to 30% discount on new bookings +++ Limited offer +++

This 12-day itinerary takes you to the rarely visited east coast of the Antarctic Peninsula. Your destination is not only the remote Weddell Sea, but also the journey there. With as many helicopter experiences as possible, you will see Antarctica from a perspective that few people before you have ever seen. At the latest when you land for intensive exploration far beyond the coast on the Antarctic Peninsula, you will be moving far away from familiar routes. The feeling of stepping out of the helicopter onto Antarctica is indescribable, especially when you realize that only a few brave explorers and mountaineers have ever seen these landscapes before you.

Your expedition to the eastern side of the Antarctic Peninsula takes you through the waters of Erebus and Terror Gulfs, Antarctic Sound, and into the ice-filled Weddell Sea, which stretches between the Antarctic Peninsula and Cape Norvegia on the coast of Queen Maud Land. The Weddell Sea is named after the British sailor James Weddell, who ventured into the often barely navigable bay in 1823. Depending on the weather, you will visit striking locations such as the rocky cliffs of Brown Bluff or the volcanic island of Deception Island. The crew will constantly monitor the landscape and weather for opportunities for spectacular flightseeing and helicopter landings (two panoramic flights and one landing included in the tour price).

The landscapes on the east coast of the peninsula will evoke a variety of emotional responses. You may feel a deep sense of calm when you reach the vast waters of Antarctic Sound. Or awe and wonder when you first see a gigantic iceberg—as big as a football field. You may also feel a sense of irritation when you see the surprising brown and earth tones of the east side – a stark contrast to the classic snowy images of the west coast. Some areas are more reminiscent of the planet Mars than what one typically associates with Antarctica.

Become part of the landscape yourself and encounter the iconic animals of Antarctica at eye level – this is possible on Zodiac tours near the coast or amid enormous icebergs. The same applies to guided hikes. Whether it's a short climb to a viewpoint or a tour lasting up to three hours covering several kilometers, your guide will always find a new route across rocks, ice, and snow just for you. With the tips your photo guide has for you, you can capture the scenery in captivating images. With a little luck, you'll bring home close-ups of humpback whales, fin whales, or orcas, or you'll get Adelie penguins, Weddell seals, or black albatrosses in front of your lens.

On your expedition ship – equipped with two twin-engine helicopters – you will travel in great comfort across the polar sea. For a deep and lasting Antarctic experience, a team of experts will accompany you with interesting lectures and presentations on topics such as glaciology, wildlife, ecology, and photography. The most courageous take "immersing themselves in Antarctica" literally and dare to take the "polar plunge" (ice bathing)!

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

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Good to know

Arrival and departure: We offer a variety of individual travel packages including flights and hotels in Buenos Aires, as well as 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: If you do not wish to have a single cabin, accommodation on board is possible in shared cabins. In this case, you will be accommodated with other travelers of the same gender and possibly of a different nationality. There are no single cabin surcharges.

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

Expedition route to the eastern side of the Antarctic Peninsula to the rarely visited Weddell Sea with Erebus and Terror Gulf and Antarctic Sound
At least two scenic flights and one landing in the mighty coastal mountains of Antarctica with the onboard helicopters ( included)
Zodiac excursions and landings for a close-up experience of Antarctic landscapes and marine wildlife
Guided hikes of up to three hours across undeveloped terrain
Possible sighting of enormous icebergs that have broken off from the Larsen and Filchner-Ronne ice shelves
Possible sightings of humpback whales, fin whales, orcas, Adelie and gentoo penguins, Weddell seals, and petrels
Exciting lectures by polar experts on topics such as wildlife in Antarctica, glaciology, history, and photography on board
Valuable expert tips from your photography guide on board and during excursions
Opportunity for a polar plunge (ice bathing)

route

itinerary

Day 1: Buenos Aires, Argentina – Start of your trip

Upon arrival in this cosmopolitan city, renowned for its architecture and rich European heritage, you will be transferred individually to your group hotel. Get to know your fellow travelers and perhaps have some time for sightseeing.

Day 2: Flight to Ushuaia – Welcome aboard the Ultramarine

After an early breakfast at the hotel, you will be transferred to the airport and board your private charter flight to Ushuaia. Upon arrival in the southernmost city in the world, you will be taken directly to the heart of this charming port city and have plenty of time to explore Ushuaia on your own. Later, you will meet your guide at an agreed meeting point on the pier, who will take you aboard your expedition ship.

In the late afternoon, it's time to cast off and cross the Beagle Channel to the Tierra del Fuego archipelago in the extreme south of South America. Your destination: the untamed wilderness of Antarctica.

Day 3: Through the Drake Passage – the "Gateway to Antarctica"

It is no coincidence that people refer to the "rite of passage through Drake Passage." As you cross the 800-kilometer-long strait, you realize that you are indeed heading for one of the most remote regions in the world. Standing on the deck of your expedition ship and seeing nothing but sea as far as the eye can see, you also get a first impression of maritime life in these rough waters. With a little luck, you may see the first dolphins and whales emerging from the waves today – or seabirds such as albatrosses, storm petrels, or skuas gliding artistically over your ship. With every nautical mile you approach the Antarctic Peninsula, the chances of discovering icebergs of impressive size and shape also increase.

A man with a microphone stands in front of an audience next to a presentation.

Day 4: Crossing the Antarctic Convergence

Today, you will continue to cross the Drake Passage, passing the Antarctic Convergence: this is where the warmer sub-Antarctic waters meet the cold waters of Antarctica, and the abundant food supply attracts many iconic Antarctic inhabitants such as orcas, humpback and fin whales, as well as black albatrosses, petrels, and skuas.

On this day at sea, your polar expertsinvite you on board for exciting lectures and presentations onphotography, wildlife, glaciology, and history . In between, there will be plenty of time to watch for marine wildlife on deck or engage in lively conversation with your fellow travelers—perhaps over a drink at the bar.

Days 5 to 9: Exploring the Weddell Sea by water, land, and air

This itinerary has been designed so that you spend each day in spectacular locations that, weather permitting, allow for helicopter flights. Otherwise, you will experience the wildlife, ice, and landscapes of Antarctica intensively by water or land.

Once the Ultramarine reaches the Antarctic Peninsula, your expedition team will seek opportunities to explore Antarctica beyond the coast—across the vast glacial terrain of Earth's last great wilderness.

The first planned destination is Antarctic Sound. There you will head for Madder Cliffs on Joinville Island and Brown Bluff at the northernmost tip of the Antarctic continent. With a little luck, you will be able to observe large colonies of Adélie penguins on Zodiac rides. Gentoo penguins and seals are also frequently found on this coast. There will also be plenty of time to marvel at the impressive topography, especially the 678-meter-high volcanic cliffs of Brown Bluff. Weather permitting, your first helicopter experience awaits you here. What you have just seen from the sea, you will now experience from the air – from the perspective of a petrel. One possible destination for a helicopter excursion is the dramatic promontory at the northeastern tip of Joinville Island. Even as you approach, you can see the striking rock formation rising from the rugged, icy landscape, which for many years was an important landmark for navigation and exploration.

The journey continues through Antarctic Sound into Erebus and Terror Gulf at the southeastern end of the Antarctic Peninsula. Here, the Ultramarine is positioned so that both helicopter and Zodiac excursions are possible.

The James Ross Island group offers a wide range of opportunities to explore historically significant sites discovered by the Swedish Antarctic Expedition from 1901 to 1904. During a landing, a hike to a viewpoint is planned, where you can see an Adélie penguin colony and the northern part of the Weddell Sea. At low tide, you may also see stranded icebergs in the shallow waters – a surreal sight that few polar voyages offer. Fossils and so-called ventifacts – stones smoothed by wind and sand over thousands of years – can also be found on the James Ross Islands. Remains from the KT period, i.e., the transition from the Cretaceous period (age of dinosaurs) to the Tertiary period (age of mammals), have also been discovered here.

Perhaps you will also head to Devil Island in your Zodiac these days and go on a hike where you can marvel at the two striking ash and lava cones rising from a bay on the north coast of Vega Island. Alternatively, you could head for Paulet Island , home to one of the largest Adélie penguin colonies in the region and a historic hut built by members of the Swedish Antarctic Expedition from 1901 to 1904. A cross marks the grave of Ole Wennersgaard, a member of the crew.

Weather permitting, the helicopter-focused part of your ship expedition to the eastern side of Antarctica culminates in a scenic flight over Livingston Island, home to the most spectacular mountains in the South Shetland Islands. From the air, you will see the 32-kilometer-long Tangra Mountains, the 1,700-meter-high Mount Friesland, Bowles Ridge, and Pliska Ridge, among other sights.

Another possible landing site is Deception Island. In addition to waddling penguins and sunbathing seals, you will also see the rusted remains of past whaling activities on the beach. The landscape of Deception Island often offers opportunities for longer hikes with impressive views. The stark contrast between snow and dark volcanic sand, as well as the geothermal steam along the coast, give this place a very special atmosphere.

Passengers stand at the railing of a ship and see a polar landscape.

Two chinstrap penguins walk across gravel and snow

Three people in yellow parkas are standing on a coastline, with a helicopter flying overhead.

Days 10 to 11: Back through the Drake Passage – time to chill out at sea

After all the experiences in the Weddell Sea, these two days at sea in the Drake Passage offer a welcome opportunity to relax.

Book a soothing facial or massage at the Tundra Spa. The sauna with floor-to-ceiling windows envelops you in cozy warmth while your gaze wanders over the polar waters.

You will also still have the opportunity to deepen your knowledge of the polar region. Your experts on board will continue to share their extensive knowledge in lectures in the Ambassador Theater. The state-of-the-art, cinema-quality LED wall ensures that you can follow your expedition team's presentations with crystal clarity from every angle. This is also the perfect opportunity to ask any questions you may have about your Antarctic experience and engage in discussion.

Day 14: Arrival in Ushuaia with a touch of Patagonia – Return flight to Buenos Aires

You arrive in Ushuaia in the morning and disembark after breakfast.

Your transfer package includes a tour of Tierra del Fuego National Park, where you will get your first taste of Patagonia. You will then be taken to the airport for your shared charter flight back to Buenos Aires. Your thoughts will still be in the white wilderness, and your memory card will be full of unforgettable memories.

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

Helicopter experiences

Flightseeing – experience Antarctica from the air by helicopter

The polar landscape is spectacular from the sea – but it is even more impressive from the air! From aboard your expedition ship, you will experience at least two 10- to 15-minute sightseeing flights offering breathtaking panoramic views of glaciers, mountain peaks, and endless expanses.

Helicopter landing – Entering the most isolated places in the world

Imagine setting foot on a remote part of Antarctica that can only be reached by helicopter. Together with other travelers and experienced guides, you board one of the ship's twin-engine helicopters and fly to an exclusive landing spot that no ship can reach.

During the flight, you can take spectacular aerial photographs of glaciers, icy peaks, and breathtaking landscapes . After landing, you will have time to take in the surroundings at your leisure before the helicopters take you back to your ship. Each landing is planned individually by our expedition team, taking into account weather conditions, environmental regulations, and local conditions.

Other included activities

hiking

For shorter hikes in Antarctica, your expedition team will mark out predetermined routes or marked areas at each landing point. During your hike, your experts will be on hand to provide you with fascinating insights into the region's wildlife, history, and geography.

Zodiac excursions

The sturdy Zodiac inflatable boats are the perfect means of transport for reaching remote coastlines, navigating narrow passages, or going on wildlife safaris. Your experienced Zodiac operators will ensure safe boarding and disembarking and accompany you with expert commentary to bring the breathtaking scenery to life.

Lectures – Exciting first-hand knowledge

Look forward to daily talks and lectures with world-leading polar experts, including expedition leaders, specialists, photo guides, and other renowned guests. You will learn interesting facts about the history, biology, ornithology, glaciology, and geology of the region—and much more!

Polar Plunge – The ultimate leap into ice-cold water

This "test of courage," which takes place only once per expedition (voluntarily, of course!), offers you the chance to safely jump into the ice-cold Antarctic waters under the supervision of the team—while pretty much every camera on board captures the moment.

Photography tips

Documenting your journey will allow you to relive the experience even more intensely when you return home. Our photography guide will help you improve your technique and capture the spectacular polar landscapes in the best possible way—for memories that will last a lifetime.

Information

Included services:

Accommodation on board with daily housekeeping
All meals, snacks, soft drinks, and juices on board throughout the trip. Please inform us of any dietary requirements as far in advance as possible. Unfortunately, the ship's kitchens are unable to prepare kosher meals.
Complimentary beer, standard wines, spirits, and cocktails during bar service hours and with dinner
Complimentary coffee, tea, and hot chocolate available around the clock
Two 10- to 15-minute helicopter sightseeing flights
A helicopter landing (weather and logistics permitting)
Guidance throughout the entire trip by our experienced expedition team, including landings and other activities
All Zodiac transfers and trips according to the daily program
All landings according to the daily program
Guided hikes lasting up to three hours
Formal and informal presentations by our expedition team and guest speakers according to schedule
An official expedition parka to take home with you
A photo diary documenting your expedition
A pair of waterproof expedition boots on loan for landings and Zodiac excursions
Hair dryers and bathrobes in every cabin
Free Wi-Fi access for one device with basic internet access (e.g., for browsing, email, social media posts, and voice services; premium packages available for more data-intensive applications)
Emergency evacuation insurance for all passengers up to a maximum of $500,000 per person
All other service charges and port fees during the program
Baggage handling on board the ship

Your transfer and hotel package includes:

One night's hotel accommodation in Buenos Aires prior to the expedition, including breakfast (Note: The number of guests per room corresponds to the cabin occupancy on the ship. Due to limited availability, travelers who reserve a suite on board will be accommodated in standard rooms at the hotel. Triple rooms may not be available.)
Group flight from Buenos Aires National Airport (Aeroparque/AEP) to Ushuaia and back to Buenos Aires International Airport (Ezeiza/EZE)
Group transfer from the hotel to the airport in Buenos Aires
Group transfer from Ushuaia Airport to the ship and back (Note: Transfer from Buenos Aires Airport to the hotel at the start of the trip is not included. Please make your own way to the included hotel. In the 2025/26 season, the airport transfer after disembarkation in Ushuaia includes a bus tour through Tierra del Fuego National Park.)

Not included in the price:

International airline tickets
Passport and visa fees, unlisted government arrival and departure taxes
Meals, unless otherwise stated
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
Laundry, bar, and spa charges, as well as other personal expenses, unless otherwise specified
Telephone and internet charges (connection may vary depending on location)
Voluntary tip at the end of the trip for the expedition staff and ship's crew
Additional accommodation options
Transfers upon arrival and departure, unless expressly stated
Adventure options not listed in the included activities

Important:

Language spoken on board: English
English-speaking expedition team
Onboard currency: US dollars and major credit cards
Completing a questionnaire, medical certificate, cruise contract, and flight information form is mandatory.
A doctor is on board
Open bridge
Laundry service available on board (for a fee)
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. The use of the onboard helicopters also depends on the prevailing wind and weather conditions.
Proof of international health insurance with medical repatriation must be provided.
The trip is not suitable for people with limited mobility.
A heart for solo travelers: Share a cabin with travelers of the same gender and save on the single cabin supplement. Valid for triple rooms with twin or double beds and a sofa bed, Infinity Suite with twin or double beds, Veranda Suite with twin or double beds.