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Call the team
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Visit part of Antarctica that few get to experience on a true expedition that pushes below the Antarctic Circle to the eastern side of the Antarctic Peninsula. Embrace the spirit of exploration as you attempt to forge a path through the ice-choked Weddell Sea.
Retrace the paths of early explorers including Shackleton, whose expedition ship, the Endurance, was famously trapped and destroyed in the ice. Huge tabular icebergs announce your approach and threaten to block your passage. Wait with bated breath as nature dictates your itinerary.
Be rewarded with unforgettable encounters with wildlife that breeds and birth on sea ice, and sightings of whales that are drawn to the icy waters. Zodiac-cruise on seas that have been declared by scientists as the clearest on Earth, around icebergs the size of skyscrapers to remote beaches to visit penguin rookeries and historic huts—all the while being careful not to step on ancient fossils.
We’ll be travelling on the new, purpose-built expedition ship, the Sylvia Earle with a maximum of only 132 passengers on board.
Two’s a Crowd has secured an amazing deal for our clients. You can experience this one in a lifetime journey and pay the twin share rate for a cabin all to yourself! We have only 11 cabins available with incredible savings. Prices start from A$26,999. Save up to A$14,800 off the regular brochure price!
So, what makes the Weddell Sea region so special?
The feeling of achievement and the unexpected rewards from entering this magical region are second to none. Positioned on the east side of the Antarctic Peninsula, the Weddell Sea is characterised by denser pack-ice conditions. It’s a real adventure to explore as every day is different, and accessibility is very dependent on ice and weather conditions. Thick pack ice and large icebergs streaming northwards in fast moving currents can often reduce access and movement far into the Weddell Sea. There is an edge-of-your-seat feeling as the Expedition Team works with the Captain to find a way through the ice, or to navigate to Plan B. The weather in the Weddell Sea region is often windy and can also become quite foggy, which creates a unique, eerie and otherwordly atmosphere. The Captain must follow a compass path determined by GPS, until the coastline gradually reveals itself out of the fog.
Adventures to the Weddell Sea feel more exploratory and adventurous than other Antarctic expeditions – because they are. Fewer vessels travel to this region, in part because entrance into the Weddell Sea cannot be assured, but also because there are fewer landing options in the Weddell Sea compared to the more heavily-visited Gerlache Strait area on the west side of the Antarctic Peninsula.
Cruise Highlights
• Experience the enormity of Antarctic ice, and be amazed as our onboard experts regale you with tales of the incredible adventures that took place in these very waters during the Heroic Age of Antarctic Exploration.
• Zodiac cruise in secluded bays and quiet coves filled with brash ice, and photograph enormous glaciers and spectacularly shaped icebergs in various shades of blue.
• Be awestruck by the array of wildlife that frolic, forage and hunt in Antarctic Sound.
• With favourable conditions we hope to spend more time enjoying the mind-blowing icy landscapes in the Weddell Sea region than on any other of our voyages.
Will you join us?
DAY 1 Sunday 24th Mar
ARRIVE USHUAIA
Arrive in Ushuaia, where you will be met by a representative of Aurora Expeditions and transferred with your fellow expeditioners to your assigned pre-voyage hotel. If you are already in Ushuaia, we ask you to make your way to your hotel. Check-in is from 3.00 pm. This afternoon, visit the Aurora Expeditions hospitality desk in the lobby at Las Hayas Ushuaia Resort, Luis Fernando Martial 1650, between 8.00 am and 12.00 pm, or 3.00 pm and 7.00 pm, to collect your luggage tags, and confirm if you wish to join our Beagle Channel and Isla de Los Lobos Cruise (sea lion island) tomorrow. Our team will confirm details regarding your embarkation day, answer any questions and provide you with information on where to dine or purchase last minute items.
Expeditioners arriving after 7.00 pm will find a welcome pack waiting for them at check-in. We ask you to visit our hospitality desk tomorrow between 8.00 am – 10.00 am. The remainder of your time is at leisure. All meals today are at your own expense.
Accommodation: Your own room at Las Hayas Ushuaia Resort or Los Acebos Ushuaia Hotel or similar
DAY 2 Monday 25th Mar
EMBARKATION (B/D)
This morning, enjoy breakfast and check-out. Please ensure your cabin luggage is fitted with cabin tags clearly labelled with your name and cabin number. Take your cabin luggage to hotel reception, prior to, or at check-out. Your luggage will be stored and transferred directly to the port for clearance, to be placed in your cabin ahead of your arrival on board. Please keep any valuables or personal items with you throughout the day.
Your morning is at leisure to explore Ushuaia.
Those wishing to join our afternoon catamaran cruise, meet back at the hotel lobby at 12.45 pm ready to transfer to the port at 1.00 pm. Here we board our catamaran and sail the Beagle Channel, towards the city’s iconic Les Eclaireurs Lighthouse. Crossing the Bridges Archipelago we’ll slow down to watch colonies of sea lions and imperial cormorants sun themselves on the rocky outcrops, while gulls, rock cormorants, skuas, petrels, albatrosses and cauquenes are often sighted. Our cruise offers panoramic views of the city and the surrounding mountain range, in addition to hearing tales of the people and communities of the region.
Alternatively, enjoy your day at leisure and meet at your hotel lobby at 3.45 pm to be transferred to the pier for embarkation.
Once onboard, you’ll have time to settle into your cabin before our important mandatory briefings. As the ship pulls away from port, we’ll gather on the deck to commence our adventure with spectacular views over Ushuaia and Tierra del Fuego.
This evening get to know your fellow expeditioners and friendly expedition team and crew at a welcome dinner to celebrate the start of a thrilling adventure to Antarctica.
Accommodation: Your own room aboard the Sylvia Earle, where you will remain for the duration of your voyage
DAY 3/4 Tuesday/Wednesday 26/27th Mar
DRAKE PASSAGE CROSSING
As we commence the Drake Passage crossing, we make the most of our time getting comfortable with the motions of the sea. Our expedition team will help you prepare for our first landing, introducing you to important wildlife guidelines and biosecurity procedures and starting our lecture program to help you learn more about Antarctica’s history, wildlife and environment.
Our Antarctic wildlife experiences begin as we enjoy watching and photographing the many seabirds often seen soaring around the ship, including majestic albatrosses and giant petrels following our vessel. On sea days you can enjoy the facilities on board the vessel, including the gym, wellness centre and well-stocked polar library, or take in the sea views from one of the observation lounges.
On day four the excitement is palpable as you near the South Shetland Islands and the tip of the Antarctic Peninsula, with everyone converging on the observation decks to spot their first iceberg. Now that you’re south of the Antarctic Convergence the ocean takes on a whole new character, as you’re surrounded by porpoising penguins and dramatic icebergs. The memory of your first iceberg sighting is likely to
remain with you for a lifetime.
Time and weather permitting, we may attempt our first Antarctic landing in the late afternoon.
DAY 5 – 11 Thursday – Wednesday 28th Mar – 3rd Apr
WEDDELL SEA REGION & ANTARCTIC PENINSULA
It’s almost impossible to describe the feeling of arriving in Antarctica. Stepping outside and taking a deep breath of some of the most fresh, crisp air on earth is an experience to cherish forever.
Once you arrive, the western side of the Antarctic Peninsula and the South Shetland Islands are ours to explore.
It was here that Nordenskjöld and his team caught their first glimpses of Antarctica and made their first landings, just over one hundred years ago. After making landfall at Harmony Cove and exploring the South Shetland Islands, they continued into the Gerlache and Orleans Straits, creating the first detailed charts of these coastlines from their wooden sailboat, the Antarctic.
Your experienced expedition team, who have made countless journeys to this area, will design your voyage from day to day, choosing the best options based on the prevailing weather, ice conditions and wildlife opportunities.
While on the Peninsula we generally make landings or Zodiac excursions twice a day. Make sure you rug up before joining a Zodiac cruise to view spectacular ice cliffs or explore grounded icebergs, keeping an eye out for whales, seals and penguins, which frequently travel and feed in these waters. Zodiacs will also transport you from the ship to land, where you can visit penguin rookeries, discover historic sites and explore some of our favourite spots along the Peninsula.
While ashore we aim to stretch our legs, wandering along pebbly beaches or perhaps up snow-covered ridgelines to vantage points with mountains towering overhead and ice-speckled oceans below. If you have chosen an optional activity, you will have the option to do that whenever conditions allow, and of course keen polar plungers will have the chance to fully immerse themselves in polar waters – conditions permitting!
In addition to Zodiac cruises and shore excursions, we may ship-cruise some of the narrow, dramatic straits separating offshore islands from the mainland, or linger in scenic bays to marvel at sculptural icebergs and photograph spectacular scenery. This is a great time to enjoy the observation lounge or make your way to the bridge (open at the Captain’s discretion) for uninterrupted views of Antarctica in all its splendour. Keep an ear out for the creak and deep rumble of glaciers as they break off, calving into the sea. Take a quiet moment to experience the wonder of this incredible white continent.
DAY 12/13 Thursday/Friday 4th/5th Apr
DRAKE PASSAGE CROSSING
We leave the ice behind and re-enter the Drake Passage for our return journey to South America.
There is still plenty of time to enjoy the magic of the Southern Ocean and the life that calls it home. Join your expedition team in the lecture room for presentations and polar film showings, or meet your fellow travellers in the bar, library or observation deck to share your experiences. Or perhaps find a quiet space to review your photos and reflect on your experience as you return to the northern world.
As we approach the tip of South America, our Captain may sail close to legendary Cape Horn, weather and time permitting.
We hope you become ambassadors for Antarctica and tell your family, friends and colleagues about your journey to this magical place, advocating for its conservation and preservation so that they might one day visit the region to experience what you have been lucky to see and do here.
DAY 14 Saturday 6th Apr
DISEMBARK USHUAIA
During the early morning, we cruise up the Beagle Channel, before quietly slipping into dock in Ushuaia, where we will be free to disembark around 8.00 am. Farewell your expedition team and fellow passengers as we all continue our onward journeys, hopefully with a newfound sense of the immense power of nature.
On disembarkation, passengers on flights departing prior to 14:00 will be transferred directly to Ushuaia Airport, while those fortunate enough to be continuing their travels in this spectacular region of the world, will be transferred to their post-voyage Ushuaia accommodation. Passengers flying after 14:00 will have time to explore Ushuaia, prior to an afternoon airport transfer, the details of which will be provided onboard prior to disembarkation.
Note: At the conclusion of the voyage, we do not recommend booking flights departing Ushuaia prior to 12.00 pm on the day of disembarkation in case there are delays.
TOUR PRICING: No single supplement. Check out the brochure for full details.
TOUR DATES: 24TH MARCH – 6th APRIL 2024
Sylvia Earle
Aurora Expedition’s new purpose-built ship, the Sylvia Earle, connects with like-minded travellers in a meaningful way on perspective-altering voyages to some of the most remote, unique and spectacular places on the planet. The Sylvia Earle is a floating ambassador for the conservation of the planet. Paying tribute to Dr. Sylvia Earle and six pioneering conservationists with public decks honouring their contributions and shining a light on their important conservation causes.
Certified 100% Climate Neutral, with a fully equipped Citizen Science Centre, expert lectures and participative Citizen science programs, to enrich your knowledge and connection to the places we travel to. The Sylvia Earle is a comfortable base camp for adventure. With a maximum of 132 expeditioners, our aim is to get you off ship experiencing the natural environment as much as possible and our smaller groups also mean we can tread lightly, making a positive impact to the environment. Each of the vessel’s public decks bear the names of six pioneering female conservationists—Dr. Carden Wallace AM, Joanna Ruxton, Sharon Kwok, Bernadette Demientieff, Dr. Asha de Vos and Hanli Prinsloo—along with a deck dedicated to Dr. Earle herself. The scientists are inspiring leaders in their fields, and as part of the deck theming, will educate our expeditioners on the impressive and important conservation work they continue to do. Find out more about these talented women in conservation.
A very special guest on board our cruise
We will be joined by creative producer, presenter and sustainability consultant Saunders Carmichael-Brown on “Antarctic Odyssey—The Weddell Sea following Nordenskjöld”
Saunders was part of the small media team on the expedition that found Sir Ernest Shackleton’s famous shipwreck, the Endurance.
Weather
Climate-wise, Ushuaia is warmer than many assume; although (arguably) the southernmost city in the world, it is no further south than Belfast is north, and temperatures rarely drop below -10°C. However, summers tend not to climb much above +12°C and, as in all of Patagonia, strong winds add a significant wind chill factor.
During the cruise
Your choice of clothing during the voyage will largely depend on your tolerance to cold climates. Polar temperatures in summer are similar to most ski fields in winter. If you are a skier, your ski clothing will be perfectly adequate; as long as it is thoroughly waterproof. Under your waterproof layer, you will need between two to four insulation layers depending on the day. For example, thermal underwear, jumper, polar fleece and waterproof jacket and/or Aurora Expeditions waterproof 3-in-1 jacket provided.
Onboard Attire
Our vessels are air-conditioned and the temperature on board is generally between 15°C (59°F) and 25°C (77°F). When on board, dress is informal. Normal clothing usually consists of jeans or casual trousers, and light long-sleeve T-shirts or jumpers. Lightweight walking shoes with good grip are ideal to wear on board the ship and on the outer decks.
Complimentary Polar Expedition Jacket
Each passenger will receive their very own Aurora Expeditions’ waterproof polar jacket to use during your voyage. The 3-in-1 jacket is designed to be worn over your essential base layers and provides a versatile layering system suitable for the conditions to be encountered on our polar expeditions. Both pieces offer sophisticated expedition styling and have been customised exclusively for Aurora Expeditions, complete with an included ‘drop seat’ design on the back of the jacket, allowing for additional comfort when sitting in Zodiacs. Your jacket will be ready and waiting for you in your cabin when you board for your expedition. Please note: Jackets are unisex and are designed to be an over-sized fit to allow for easy movement and layering underneath.
Electricity
Argentine electricity is officially 220V, 50Hz. The best way to use imported electrical equipment in Argentina is to purchase an adapter once there. Buildings use a mix of European and Australian plug fittings
Visas
PLEASE NOTE: Visa requirements can change at any time and some countries may alter their COVID-19 testing entry requirements. Please contact your relevant Visa authority for the most up to date information applicable to you.
As you may be travelling throughout different South American countries, please ensure to check all entry and Visa requirements to enter, transit or stay in any of these countries. We strongly recommend that you check this as soon as you can, to allow as much time as possible to obtain the relevant documentation and Visas you need depending on the passport you are traveling with. Please contact your local Consulates, Embassies or any Visa specialists to obtain a necessary Visa or if you have any questions related to obtaining a Visa.
Please also note that a certificate of your full vaccination may be required upon entry to Chile, Argentina and other South American countries.
Note for Australian Passport holders
Please note that currently Australian passport holders require a Visa to enter Chile as tourists, which must be applied for prior to arrival. This tourist visa requires detailed information and you should apply immediately to allow for processing time with some leeway. Please check with the Consulate or Embassy for the most up to date information.
Tour Inclusions:
- Two’s a Crowd Tour Host from Australia
- 1 night’s accommodation in your own hotel room in Ushaia including breakfast
- 12 nights’ onboard the Sylvia Earl in a private balcony cabin with king bed and ensuite with step in shower
- Meals as per itinerary (B=breakfast, L=lunch, D=dinner, S=supper)
- Wine and beer with dinner each night
- Daily off-ship expeditions via Zodiac
- Regular on-board lectures from the expedition team
- Captain’s Farewell reception including 4 course meal and drinks
- Complimentary on-board WIFI
- Gratuities for ships crew
- Return group transfers to/from airport/hotel
- Professional English-speaking expedition guides throughout
- All sightseeing and guided tours as detailed in the itinerary
- Solo room – always!
Tour Exclusions:
- Travel Insurance (we can assist)
- International flights to the start/end of the tour
- Expenses of a personal nature, such as laundry, taxis, souvenirs, and phone calls
- Meals and drinks not included in the itinerary
- Pre- and post-tour accommodation (we can assist)
- Visa costs (if applicable)
- Any tours listed as “Optional Tours” (and are subject to change, depending on weather and schedule changes)
Visit part of Antarctica that few get to experience on a true expedition that pushes below the Antarctic Circle to the eastern side of the Antarctic Peninsula. Embrace the spirit of exploration as you attempt to forge a path through the ice-choked Weddell Sea.
Retrace the paths of early explorers including Shackleton, whose expedition ship, the Endurance, was famously trapped and destroyed in the ice. Huge tabular icebergs announce your approach and threaten to block your passage. Wait with bated breath as nature dictates your itinerary.
Be rewarded with unforgettable encounters with wildlife that breeds and birth on sea ice, and sightings of whales that are drawn to the icy waters. Zodiac-cruise on seas that have been declared by scientists as the clearest on Earth, around icebergs the size of skyscrapers to remote beaches to visit penguin rookeries and historic huts—all the while being careful not to step on ancient fossils.
We’ll be travelling on the new, purpose-built expedition ship, the Sylvia Earle with a maximum of only 132 passengers on board.
Two’s a Crowd has secured an amazing deal for our clients. You can experience this one in a lifetime journey and pay the twin share rate for a cabin all to yourself! We have only 11 cabins available with incredible savings. Prices start from A$26,999. Save up to A$14,800 off the regular brochure price!
So, what makes the Weddell Sea region so special?
The feeling of achievement and the unexpected rewards from entering this magical region are second to none. Positioned on the east side of the Antarctic Peninsula, the Weddell Sea is characterised by denser pack-ice conditions. It’s a real adventure to explore as every day is different, and accessibility is very dependent on ice and weather conditions. Thick pack ice and large icebergs streaming northwards in fast moving currents can often reduce access and movement far into the Weddell Sea. There is an edge-of-your-seat feeling as the Expedition Team works with the Captain to find a way through the ice, or to navigate to Plan B. The weather in the Weddell Sea region is often windy and can also become quite foggy, which creates a unique, eerie and otherwordly atmosphere. The Captain must follow a compass path determined by GPS, until the coastline gradually reveals itself out of the fog.
Adventures to the Weddell Sea feel more exploratory and adventurous than other Antarctic expeditions – because they are. Fewer vessels travel to this region, in part because entrance into the Weddell Sea cannot be assured, but also because there are fewer landing options in the Weddell Sea compared to the more heavily-visited Gerlache Strait area on the west side of the Antarctic Peninsula.
Cruise Highlights
• Experience the enormity of Antarctic ice, and be amazed as our onboard experts regale you with tales of the incredible adventures that took place in these very waters during the Heroic Age of Antarctic Exploration.
• Zodiac cruise in secluded bays and quiet coves filled with brash ice, and photograph enormous glaciers and spectacularly shaped icebergs in various shades of blue.
• Be awestruck by the array of wildlife that frolic, forage and hunt in Antarctic Sound.
• With favourable conditions we hope to spend more time enjoying the mind-blowing icy landscapes in the Weddell Sea region than on any other of our voyages.
Will you join us?
DAY 1 Sunday 24th Mar
ARRIVE USHUAIA
Arrive in Ushuaia, where you will be met by a representative of Aurora Expeditions and transferred with your fellow expeditioners to your assigned pre-voyage hotel. If you are already in Ushuaia, we ask you to make your way to your hotel. Check-in is from 3.00 pm. This afternoon, visit the Aurora Expeditions hospitality desk in the lobby at Las Hayas Ushuaia Resort, Luis Fernando Martial 1650, between 8.00 am and 12.00 pm, or 3.00 pm and 7.00 pm, to collect your luggage tags, and confirm if you wish to join our Beagle Channel and Isla de Los Lobos Cruise (sea lion island) tomorrow. Our team will confirm details regarding your embarkation day, answer any questions and provide you with information on where to dine or purchase last minute items.
Expeditioners arriving after 7.00 pm will find a welcome pack waiting for them at check-in. We ask you to visit our hospitality desk tomorrow between 8.00 am – 10.00 am. The remainder of your time is at leisure. All meals today are at your own expense.
Accommodation: Your own room at Las Hayas Ushuaia Resort or Los Acebos Ushuaia Hotel or similar
DAY 2 Monday 25th Mar
EMBARKATION (B/D)
This morning, enjoy breakfast and check-out. Please ensure your cabin luggage is fitted with cabin tags clearly labelled with your name and cabin number. Take your cabin luggage to hotel reception, prior to, or at check-out. Your luggage will be stored and transferred directly to the port for clearance, to be placed in your cabin ahead of your arrival on board. Please keep any valuables or personal items with you throughout the day.
Your morning is at leisure to explore Ushuaia.
Those wishing to join our afternoon catamaran cruise, meet back at the hotel lobby at 12.45 pm ready to transfer to the port at 1.00 pm. Here we board our catamaran and sail the Beagle Channel, towards the city’s iconic Les Eclaireurs Lighthouse. Crossing the Bridges Archipelago we’ll slow down to watch colonies of sea lions and imperial cormorants sun themselves on the rocky outcrops, while gulls, rock cormorants, skuas, petrels, albatrosses and cauquenes are often sighted. Our cruise offers panoramic views of the city and the surrounding mountain range, in addition to hearing tales of the people and communities of the region.
Alternatively, enjoy your day at leisure and meet at your hotel lobby at 3.45 pm to be transferred to the pier for embarkation.
Once onboard, you’ll have time to settle into your cabin before our important mandatory briefings. As the ship pulls away from port, we’ll gather on the deck to commence our adventure with spectacular views over Ushuaia and Tierra del Fuego.
This evening get to know your fellow expeditioners and friendly expedition team and crew at a welcome dinner to celebrate the start of a thrilling adventure to Antarctica.
Accommodation: Your own room aboard the Sylvia Earle, where you will remain for the duration of your voyage
DAY 3/4 Tuesday/Wednesday 26/27th Mar
DRAKE PASSAGE CROSSING
As we commence the Drake Passage crossing, we make the most of our time getting comfortable with the motions of the sea. Our expedition team will help you prepare for our first landing, introducing you to important wildlife guidelines and biosecurity procedures and starting our lecture program to help you learn more about Antarctica’s history, wildlife and environment.
Our Antarctic wildlife experiences begin as we enjoy watching and photographing the many seabirds often seen soaring around the ship, including majestic albatrosses and giant petrels following our vessel. On sea days you can enjoy the facilities on board the vessel, including the gym, wellness centre and well-stocked polar library, or take in the sea views from one of the observation lounges.
On day four the excitement is palpable as you near the South Shetland Islands and the tip of the Antarctic Peninsula, with everyone converging on the observation decks to spot their first iceberg. Now that you’re south of the Antarctic Convergence the ocean takes on a whole new character, as you’re surrounded by porpoising penguins and dramatic icebergs. The memory of your first iceberg sighting is likely to
remain with you for a lifetime.
Time and weather permitting, we may attempt our first Antarctic landing in the late afternoon.
DAY 5 – 11 Thursday – Wednesday 28th Mar – 3rd Apr
WEDDELL SEA REGION & ANTARCTIC PENINSULA
It’s almost impossible to describe the feeling of arriving in Antarctica. Stepping outside and taking a deep breath of some of the most fresh, crisp air on earth is an experience to cherish forever.
Once you arrive, the western side of the Antarctic Peninsula and the South Shetland Islands are ours to explore.
It was here that Nordenskjöld and his team caught their first glimpses of Antarctica and made their first landings, just over one hundred years ago. After making landfall at Harmony Cove and exploring the South Shetland Islands, they continued into the Gerlache and Orleans Straits, creating the first detailed charts of these coastlines from their wooden sailboat, the Antarctic.
Your experienced expedition team, who have made countless journeys to this area, will design your voyage from day to day, choosing the best options based on the prevailing weather, ice conditions and wildlife opportunities.
While on the Peninsula we generally make landings or Zodiac excursions twice a day. Make sure you rug up before joining a Zodiac cruise to view spectacular ice cliffs or explore grounded icebergs, keeping an eye out for whales, seals and penguins, which frequently travel and feed in these waters. Zodiacs will also transport you from the ship to land, where you can visit penguin rookeries, discover historic sites and explore some of our favourite spots along the Peninsula.
While ashore we aim to stretch our legs, wandering along pebbly beaches or perhaps up snow-covered ridgelines to vantage points with mountains towering overhead and ice-speckled oceans below. If you have chosen an optional activity, you will have the option to do that whenever conditions allow, and of course keen polar plungers will have the chance to fully immerse themselves in polar waters – conditions permitting!
In addition to Zodiac cruises and shore excursions, we may ship-cruise some of the narrow, dramatic straits separating offshore islands from the mainland, or linger in scenic bays to marvel at sculptural icebergs and photograph spectacular scenery. This is a great time to enjoy the observation lounge or make your way to the bridge (open at the Captain’s discretion) for uninterrupted views of Antarctica in all its splendour. Keep an ear out for the creak and deep rumble of glaciers as they break off, calving into the sea. Take a quiet moment to experience the wonder of this incredible white continent.
DAY 12/13 Thursday/Friday 4th/5th Apr
DRAKE PASSAGE CROSSING
We leave the ice behind and re-enter the Drake Passage for our return journey to South America.
There is still plenty of time to enjoy the magic of the Southern Ocean and the life that calls it home. Join your expedition team in the lecture room for presentations and polar film showings, or meet your fellow travellers in the bar, library or observation deck to share your experiences. Or perhaps find a quiet space to review your photos and reflect on your experience as you return to the northern world.
As we approach the tip of South America, our Captain may sail close to legendary Cape Horn, weather and time permitting.
We hope you become ambassadors for Antarctica and tell your family, friends and colleagues about your journey to this magical place, advocating for its conservation and preservation so that they might one day visit the region to experience what you have been lucky to see and do here.
DAY 14 Saturday 6th Apr
DISEMBARK USHUAIA
During the early morning, we cruise up the Beagle Channel, before quietly slipping into dock in Ushuaia, where we will be free to disembark around 8.00 am. Farewell your expedition team and fellow passengers as we all continue our onward journeys, hopefully with a newfound sense of the immense power of nature.
On disembarkation, passengers on flights departing prior to 14:00 will be transferred directly to Ushuaia Airport, while those fortunate enough to be continuing their travels in this spectacular region of the world, will be transferred to their post-voyage Ushuaia accommodation. Passengers flying after 14:00 will have time to explore Ushuaia, prior to an afternoon airport transfer, the details of which will be provided onboard prior to disembarkation.
Note: At the conclusion of the voyage, we do not recommend booking flights departing Ushuaia prior to 12.00 pm on the day of disembarkation in case there are delays.
TOUR PRICING: No single supplement. Check out the brochure for full details.
TOUR DATES: 24TH MARCH – 6th APRIL 2024
Sylvia Earle
Aurora Expedition’s new purpose-built ship, the Sylvia Earle, connects with like-minded travellers in a meaningful way on perspective-altering voyages to some of the most remote, unique and spectacular places on the planet. The Sylvia Earle is a floating ambassador for the conservation of the planet. Paying tribute to Dr. Sylvia Earle and six pioneering conservationists with public decks honouring their contributions and shining a light on their important conservation causes.
Certified 100% Climate Neutral, with a fully equipped Citizen Science Centre, expert lectures and participative Citizen science programs, to enrich your knowledge and connection to the places we travel to. The Sylvia Earle is a comfortable base camp for adventure. With a maximum of 132 expeditioners, our aim is to get you off ship experiencing the natural environment as much as possible and our smaller groups also mean we can tread lightly, making a positive impact to the environment. Each of the vessel’s public decks bear the names of six pioneering female conservationists—Dr. Carden Wallace AM, Joanna Ruxton, Sharon Kwok, Bernadette Demientieff, Dr. Asha de Vos and Hanli Prinsloo—along with a deck dedicated to Dr. Earle herself. The scientists are inspiring leaders in their fields, and as part of the deck theming, will educate our expeditioners on the impressive and important conservation work they continue to do. Find out more about these talented women in conservation.
A very special guest on board our cruise
We will be joined by creative producer, presenter and sustainability consultant Saunders Carmichael-Brown on “Antarctic Odyssey—The Weddell Sea following Nordenskjöld”
Saunders was part of the small media team on the expedition that found Sir Ernest Shackleton’s famous shipwreck, the Endurance.
Weather
Climate-wise, Ushuaia is warmer than many assume; although (arguably) the southernmost city in the world, it is no further south than Belfast is north, and temperatures rarely drop below -10°C. However, summers tend not to climb much above +12°C and, as in all of Patagonia, strong winds add a significant wind chill factor.
During the cruise
Your choice of clothing during the voyage will largely depend on your tolerance to cold climates. Polar temperatures in summer are similar to most ski fields in winter. If you are a skier, your ski clothing will be perfectly adequate; as long as it is thoroughly waterproof. Under your waterproof layer, you will need between two to four insulation layers depending on the day. For example, thermal underwear, jumper, polar fleece and waterproof jacket and/or Aurora Expeditions waterproof 3-in-1 jacket provided.
Onboard Attire
Our vessels are air-conditioned and the temperature on board is generally between 15°C (59°F) and 25°C (77°F). When on board, dress is informal. Normal clothing usually consists of jeans or casual trousers, and light long-sleeve T-shirts or jumpers. Lightweight walking shoes with good grip are ideal to wear on board the ship and on the outer decks.
Complimentary Polar Expedition Jacket
Each passenger will receive their very own Aurora Expeditions’ waterproof polar jacket to use during your voyage. The 3-in-1 jacket is designed to be worn over your essential base layers and provides a versatile layering system suitable for the conditions to be encountered on our polar expeditions. Both pieces offer sophisticated expedition styling and have been customised exclusively for Aurora Expeditions, complete with an included ‘drop seat’ design on the back of the jacket, allowing for additional comfort when sitting in Zodiacs. Your jacket will be ready and waiting for you in your cabin when you board for your expedition. Please note: Jackets are unisex and are designed to be an over-sized fit to allow for easy movement and layering underneath.
Electricity
Argentine electricity is officially 220V, 50Hz. The best way to use imported electrical equipment in Argentina is to purchase an adapter once there. Buildings use a mix of European and Australian plug fittings
Visas
PLEASE NOTE: Visa requirements can change at any time and some countries may alter their COVID-19 testing entry requirements. Please contact your relevant Visa authority for the most up to date information applicable to you.
As you may be travelling throughout different South American countries, please ensure to check all entry and Visa requirements to enter, transit or stay in any of these countries. We strongly recommend that you check this as soon as you can, to allow as much time as possible to obtain the relevant documentation and Visas you need depending on the passport you are traveling with. Please contact your local Consulates, Embassies or any Visa specialists to obtain a necessary Visa or if you have any questions related to obtaining a Visa.
Please also note that a certificate of your full vaccination may be required upon entry to Chile, Argentina and other South American countries.
Note for Australian Passport holders
Please note that currently Australian passport holders require a Visa to enter Chile as tourists, which must be applied for prior to arrival. This tourist visa requires detailed information and you should apply immediately to allow for processing time with some leeway. Please check with the Consulate or Embassy for the most up to date information.
Tour Inclusions:
- Two’s a Crowd Tour Host from Australia
- 1 night’s accommodation in your own hotel room in Ushaia including breakfast
- 12 nights’ onboard the Sylvia Earl in a private balcony cabin with king bed and ensuite with step in shower
- Meals as per itinerary (B=breakfast, L=lunch, D=dinner, S=supper)
- Wine and beer with dinner each night
- Daily off-ship expeditions via Zodiac
- Regular on-board lectures from the expedition team
- Captain’s Farewell reception including 4 course meal and drinks
- Complimentary on-board WIFI
- Gratuities for ships crew
- Return group transfers to/from airport/hotel
- Professional English-speaking expedition guides throughout
- All sightseeing and guided tours as detailed in the itinerary
- Solo room – always!
Tour Exclusions:
- Travel Insurance (we can assist)
- International flights to the start/end of the tour
- Expenses of a personal nature, such as laundry, taxis, souvenirs, and phone calls
- Meals and drinks not included in the itinerary
- Pre- and post-tour accommodation (we can assist)
- Visa costs (if applicable)
- Any tours listed as “Optional Tours” (and are subject to change, depending on weather and schedule changes)
