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This expedition is designed as a working platform for science, offering a rare opportunity to observe how whale research is conducted in one of the most remote ecosystems on Earth. Throughout the voyage, researchers will conduct field studies aimed at improving our understanding of whale presence, behavior, and the broader Southern Ocean ecosystem.
Guests will have the chance to witness science in action and gain insight into how researchers collect, interpret, and contribute data to long-term ecological studies. Activities and research efforts will vary depending on environmental conditions, wildlife activity, and permitting requirements.
Participants are encouraged to take an active role in the experience—helping spot whales, recording observations, contributing photographs to identification catalogs, and supporting ongoing research efforts alongside the expedition team.
With more than 500 potential landing sites along the Antarctic Peninsula, daily plans remain flexible. We do hope to visit on this trip Historic sites south of the Antarctic circle as well as visit research stations subject to permission from the relevant authorities.
The Captain and Expedition Leader will adapt the route based on whale sightings, weather, and ice conditions to maximize wildlife encounters, research opportunities, and - conditions permitting -even a crossing of the Antarctic Circle.
Highlights
• Engage in whale research and observe marine mammals in their natural Antarctic habitat
• With a true expedition mindset, we aim to venture beyond the Antarctic Circle. Reaching one of the most remote frontiers on Earth.
• Explore the Antarctic Peninsula's dramatic icebergs and glaciers
• Encounter abundant wildlife — penguins, seals, and whales
• Daily Zodiac landings and cruises for wildlife encounters on shore
• Kayaking through pristine Antarctic waters - included at no extra cost
• Expert-guided excursions into Antarctica's history, ecology, and wildlife
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Day 1: Ushuaia, Argentina
Board the expedition vessel in the afternoon, where you'll meet your crew and fellow travellers. After settling into your cabin, the ship sets off along the picturesque Beagle Channel. Relish your first evening at sea as the southernmost tip of South America disappears from view.
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Days 2 - 3: Crossing the Drake Passage
Start your Antarctic adventure with a crossing of the Drake Passage, a vast stretch of open ocean that marks the Antarctic Convergence, where nutrient-rich waters sustain a vibrant ecosystem.
While at sea, attend expert-led talks on Antarctica's history, wildlife, and geology. Head to the open decks or the bridge to spot albatrosses, petrels, and even whales. Adventure activities, including navigation workshops and safety briefings for kayaking and snowshoeing, will also be held.
By the end of Day 3, the first sighting of icebergs and snow-capped peaks will signal your arrival at the South Shetland Islands.
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Days 4 - 7: Whale Research Operations - Antarctic Peninsula
Zodiac-Based Whale Observation
Conduct whale observation and behavioral logging from Zodiac vessels in active feeding and transit areas.Deployment and recovery of research equipment
Deploy and recover underwater acoustic instruments used to record and analyze marine mammal presence and communication.Fluke Photo-ID sessions
Participate in fluke photo-identification sessions to help track individual whales across sightings.Data Review & Processing
Engage in evening sessions reviewing collected data, processing video, and discussing preliminary findings onboard.These days are based around collecting data through our field operations and ecosystem-focused exploration. Shore landings may complement at-sea research, connecting whale behavior to broader Antarctic food web dynamics.
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Days 8 - 10: Extended Science & Ecosystem Integration
Extended flexibility to revisit productive areas and continue ecosystem-focused exploration.
These additional days allow flexibility to revisit productive whale areas or shift focus based on conditions and research progress.
Other included and optional activities during your time in Antarctica include kayaking, hiking, and taking a dip into the icy cold Antarctic Sea.
Adaptive Research Planning
Adjust routes and operations dynamically to maximize opportunities for meaningful observations and data collection.Revisiting Whale Hotspots
Return to previously active marine areas to continue tracking whale presence and behavior patterns.Kayaking
Explore calm waters at close range, offering a unique perspective of the Antarctic environment.Hiking & Shore Exploration
Step ashore for guided hikes across glacial landscapes and panoramic viewpoints.Polar Plunge
Take an optional dip into the icy Antarctic waters for a memorable expedition experience. -
Day 11: Farewell Landings
As the expedition heads back north, there's an opportunity for a final landing or zodiac cruise. Weather and ice conditions permitting, explore destinations like Brown Bluff, where towering cliffs and an Adélie penguin colony await, or Paulet Island, home to historic sites and abundant wildlife.
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Day 12: Crossing the Drake Passage
Relive the journey north — final lectures, seabird spotting, and a celebratory dinner.
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Day 13: Return to Ushuaia
Arrive back in Ushuaia in the early morning. After breakfast, disembark with cherished memories of an epic Antarctic expedition and new stories to tell.
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Please note:
The above itinerary is a general guideline. Our precise route and activities will be adjusted to optimize wildlife viewing and adapt to prevailing weather and ice conditions. The Captain and/or Expedition Leader will make necessary changes to ensure the best possible experience. A daily program will be provided onboard. Flexibility is essential for a successful expedition. Whilst our focus is on early exploration landing sites cannot be guaranteed.
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07 March, 2027 to 19 March, 2027
The Quad Cabins located on the Promenade and Deck “A” measure approximately 14 square metres (150 sqft)* and feature a desk, a window, two bunk beds (pullman style) and en-suite bathroom.
The Triple Cabins located on Deck “A” measure approximately 14 square metres (150 sqft)* and feature a desk, a window, a bunk (pullman style) and one single bed and en-suite bathroom.
The Odyssey Single Cabins located on the Boat, Promenade and on Deck “A” measure approximately 8 square metres (85 sqft)* and feature a desk, a window, an en-suite bathroom and one single bed.
The Odyssey Twin Cabins located on Decks “A” and “B” measure approximately 10 square metres (107 sqft)* and feature a desk, a window, one bunk bed (pullman style) and an en-suite bathroom.
The Superior Cabins located on Deck “A” measure approximately 14 square metres (150 sqft)* and feature a desk, a window, two single beds and an en-suite bathroom.
The Deluxe Cabins located on the Promenade Deck and Deck “B” measure approximately 15 square metres (162 sqft)* and feature a desk, a window, an en-suite bathroom and one double (King-sized) or two single beds.
The Deluxe Cabins located on Deck “B” feature a porthole, two single beds and a seating area.
Bedding Configurations:
P1 - Double/Two Single
P2 - Double/Two Single
P3 - Double/Two Single
P8 - Double/Two Single
P9 - Double/Two Single
P10 - Double/Two Single
B36 - B39 - Two Single Beds
The Premium Cabins located on the Promenade Deck measure approximately 18 square metres (194 sqft)* and feature a desk, a window, an en-suite bathroom and one double (King-sized) or two single beds.
Bedding Configurations:
P4 - Double
P7 - Double
The spacious Owner’s Suites located on the Boat Deck measure approximately 40 square metres (430 sqft)* and feature a seating area, a meeting area, en-suite bathroom, walk in closet and one double (King-sized) bed.
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St. Helena
St. Helena
Vessel Type: Polar Code Category C Passenger Vessel
Length: 105 metres / 344 ft
Passenger Capacity: 98
Built / Refurbished: 1989 / 2022
St Helena is a character-rich expedition vessel with a unique maritime legacy, originally built to serve one of the world’s most remote communities and extensively refurbished in 2022. Now part of the Terra Nova Expeditions fleet, she combines heritage with modern comfort, accommodating just 98 guests for an intimate onboard experience supported by 81 crew members. Spacious, ocean-view cabins all feature ensuite bathrooms, with a variety of configurations including singles, twins, and shared options ideal for solo travellers, families, or groups. With inviting social spaces, panoramic observation lounges, and a relaxed atmosphere, the ship offers a welcoming environment designed for both comfort and connection.
Built for true expedition travel, St Helena is equipped with an ice-strengthened hull, powerful engines, and 12 Zodiacs, making her well suited for navigating the remote regions of Antarctica and beyond. Guests can take part in expert-led excursions such as zodiac cruises, guided landings, kayaking, and even camping, while onboard facilities include open decks for wildlife viewing, a gym, spa, two Jacuzzis, and a fully equipped science lab supporting active research programmes. Combining adventure, education, and strong value, St Helena delivers an immersive polar experience with a focus on exploration and meaningful discovery.
