To the whales and penguins in Antarctica

Antarctic Peninsula and South Shetland Islands, including activities such as kayaking and trekking + sailing option

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CLASSIC ROUTE

from/to Ushuaia (Argentina)

11 days (10 nights)

St. Helena

11-day Antarctic expedition from/to Ushuaia (Argentina) to the South Shetland Islands and the Antarctic Peninsula with a wide range of activities such as kayaking, snowshoeing, and trekking.

This carefully designed Antarctic expedition takes you deep into the heart of the white continent on a classic route, giving you plenty of time for active exploration in the untouched wilderness of the Antarctic Peninsula and the South Shetland Islands. Your expedition ship, St Helena – a former mail ship offering generous comfort on board – navigates past majestic icebergs, snow-capped peaks, and impressive glaciers.

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On this intensive ship expedition, you will encounter the fascinating wildlife of Antarctica up close: visit during shore excursions bustling colonies of Adelie penguins and see Chinstrap and Gentoo penguins jump courageously from rocks into the Arctic Ocean. At kayak tours paddle quietly along fur seals, weddell seals, or leopard seals sunbathing on ice floes between their dives. And when a Humpback or minke whale emerges from the icy depths, you're sure to hold your breath.

With a wide range of activities such as kayaking between icebergs, snowshoeing or trekking across bright white plains and slopes, and Zodiac excursions to hidden bays, this Antarctic expedition goes far beyond simply viewing the landscape and wildlife. You can get even closer to the beautiful but challenging wilderness with optional activities such as the Polar Plunge (ice bathing), camping on the ice, or an exclusive sailing trip in a small group.

Experience every landing, every animal sighting, and every activity consciously and without watching the clock – this classic Antarctic expedition takes a little more time to reach remote corners and quiet bays. Your team of experts will flexibly adapt the itinerary to weather and ice conditions so that you can observe penguins raising their young or whales feeding at close range. If you want to further enhance the peaceful silence of the 7th continent, take part in yoga sessions on board or enjoy pure relaxation in one of the St. Helena's two whirlpools.

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

Select consultation appointment

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 trekking or snowshoeing

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 your expedition ship, St. Helena, and have the opportunity to get to know your fellow travelers and the crew. After settling into your cabin and getting comfortable, it's time to cast off and set sail through the impressive Beagle Channel. As the southernmost tip of the South American continent slowly disappears into the distance, enjoy your first evening on the open sea.

Giant petrel in flight over the Drake Passage

Days 2 to 3: Southward through the Drake Passage

Over the next two days, you will cross the legendary Drake Passage—a region known for its rugged beauty. At the Antarctic Convergence, cold, nutrient-rich currents from the south meet warmer sub-Antarctic waters. This convergence creates a particularly species-rich ecosystem and is ideal for wildlife viewing.

During the crossing, the team of experts on board will prepare you for your destination with exciting lectures on the history, geology, and wildlife of the white continent. From the outer decks or the bridge, you will have excellent opportunities to spot albatrosses, shearwaters, and , with a little luck, even whales. In addition, practical activities such as navigation workshops and safety briefings for kayaking and snowshoeing excursions are offered.

At the end of the third day, the first icebergs and snow-covered peaks of the South Shetland Islands finally appear on the horizon.

Days 4 to 8: Exploring the Antarctic Peninsula

Around the Antarctic Peninsula and the South Shetland Islands, you will experience one of the most remote and fascinating wilderness regions on our planet – intensely and up close. On Zodiac excursions, shore excursions, and other optional activities, you will explore the polar sea and spectacular landscapes of ice and rock.

Possible experiences on the Antarctic Peninsula:

Kayaking among icebergs: Glide silently across calm waters, past curious seals resting on ice floes and penguins diving elegantly into the water.
Snowshoe hikes: Take tours to vantage points offering magnificent panoramic views of glaciers, mountains, and endless white landscapes.
Penguin colonies up close: Watch gentoo penguins, chinstrap penguins, and Adélie penguins breeding, feeding their young, and making their persistent leaps into the ice-cold sea.
More wildlife viewing: Discover Weddell, harbor, and leopard seals on the ice or hunting. With a little luck,you may encounterminke or humpback whales that come to these waters to feed.

With over 500 potential landing sites along the peninsula, no two expeditions are alike. The expert team on board makes flexible decisions based on weather and ice conditions to ensure you have the best possible experience – from voyages through ice-filled channels to mighty glaciers.

A woman in winter clothes stands on a coastline and looks out at the sea, where ice floes are drifting.

A humpback whale surfaces in the Arctic Ocean.

Day 9: Heading north again

On the way back north, depending on weather and ice conditions, there is often another opportunity for a final shore excursion or Zodiac trip. Possible destinations include Brown Bluff, which impresses with its striking basalt cliffs and lively Adélie penguin colony, or Paulet Island. This historic island offers relics from early expeditions as well as a habitat for crabeater seals, giant petrels, and another large Adelie penguin colony.

Day 10: Back through the Drake Passage

During the return journey through the Drake Passage, you will have the opportunity to reflect on the experiences of your Antarctic expedition. Keep an eye out for seabirds flying by and whales, which often accompany the ship in this region. On board, lectures and workshops will be offered once again before a festive farewell dinner in a convivial atmosphere brings your unforgettable journey to a fitting close.

Humpback whales in the beautiful landscape at sunset

Ushuaia at night with snow-capped mountains in the background

Day 11: Arrival at the port of Ushuaia

Early in the morning, the ship docks in Ushuaia, where disembarkation takes place after breakfast.

Over the past eleven days, you have experienced the breathtaking ice world of Antarctica and its unique wildlife up close and collected impressions that will linger long in your memory. If you would like to extend your trip and discover Argentina or other parts of South America, we will be happy to advise you on possible extension options!

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

A unique experience for adventurers and nature lovers: a night under the open sky on the Antarctic continent —surrounded by silence, untouched landscape, and the rugged beauty of the white continent.

This special adventure is included in the tour price, but is limited to only 40 guests per departure. Camping is done with expedition-grade bivvy equipment, which ensures safety and comfort during the night on the ice.

Camping in Antarctica is a rare opportunity to experience the region in its purest and most impressive form. This option is only offered on selected departures, so it is advisable to register early when booking to secure a place.

Departures:
12/18/2026
01/06/2027
12/29/2027
01/26/2028

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.

photography workshop

Take part in a free photography workshop in Antarctica. An experienced photographer will give a theoretical lecture with valuable tips on how to best capture the continent's breathtaking landscapes and wildlife.

During shore excursions and on the spacious outdoor decks, the photographer will be on hand to offer practical assistance and show you how to achieve the best compositions. Whether you are a beginner or an experienced photographer, this workshop offers a creative and enriching opportunity to experience the spectacular Antarctic from a whole new perspective.

The activity is 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.

day sailing trip

Embark on an exclusive day sailing trip aboard the Icebird. This very special experience is limited to just eight passengers and gives you the opportunity to discover hidden corners of Antarctica – from secluded bays and majestic icebergs to wild coastlines that remain inaccessible to larger ships.

Under the guidance of experienced guides, you will enjoy a particularly 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 recommended. Please note that the exact sailing day is weather-dependent and will only be confirmed during the trip.

This experience can be booked in advance for an additional charge, is subject to weather and conditions, and is only available on the following departures:

06.01.2027
25.01.2027
29.12.2027
26.01.2028
05.02.2028

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.