Antarctica & South Georgia

South Georgia and Antarctic Peninsula: Penguin Safari

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Our 18-day South Georgia and Antarctica: Penguin Safari itinerary is the fastest way to reach remote South Georgia Island—home to vast colonies of penguins—while also setting foot on the 7th Continent. Walk beaches teeming with king penguins and elephant seals, and enjoy the comical antics of gentoo, chinstrap and Adélie penguins. You can also observe albatross soaring above the ship. Antarctica awaits, with its soaring peaks and overwhelming enormity. Take a Zodiac ride, photograph glistening glaciers, or witness the rugged peninsula from a sea kayak.

Some departures may have slightly modified itineraries. Please confirm the itinerary with an Expedition Specialist.


Highlights


• See South Georgia’s incredible wildlife, including 30 breeding bird species and four penguin species

• Follow in the wake of Sir Ernest Shackleton’s perilous voyages to South Georgia and pause for a moment at his grave site

• Explore the Antarctic Peninsula by ship, Zodiac and foot

• Enjoy presentations on wildlife, history, glaciology & geology by our onboard polar experts

• Immerse yourself in the icy realm of the Antarctic, with an optional paddling excursion



  • Day 1: Arrive in Ushuaia, Argentina

    You will begin your journey in Ushuaia, a small but bustling port at the tip of South America. It’s the ideal gateway for you to explore the southern extent of Patagonia while preparing for your adventure ahead. Get active in the mountains or enjoy handcrafted chocolate at a café in town.

  • Day 2: Embarkation in Ushuaia

    Embarkation will occur in the late afternoon, after which your vessel will sail down the historic Beagle Channel, which transects the Tierra del Fuego archipelago in the extreme south of South America. Expect an air of anticipation as you depart.

  • Day 3 to 6: At Sea

    There are many activities to keep you engaged while you are at sea. Learn to identify seabirds that glide alongside the ship, or attend dynamic presentations by your Expedition Team. You will be prepped on safety procedures for Zodiac cruises and shore landings, and also be given instructions for getting the most out of your optional sea kayaking adventures (extra cost), a truly intimate way to experience Antarctica. If conditions are right, the first indication that you are approaching South Georgia is the sight of birds around a group of rocky spires called Shag Rocks. Have your binoculars and cameras ready to capture these rocky spires rising out of the icy ocean waters. Shags and prions often rest here, and due to nutrient rich upwellings around the rocks it can be a good place to keep a lookout for whales.

  • Day 7 to 9: South Georgia

    After enjoying South Georgia from a distance, we’ll head toward its numerous beaches to find a bay for your first excursion. Landing sites are varied, largely determined by the weather conditions of your voyage. The sites you visit will provide you with wildlife sightings unrivaled anywhere else on Earth. South Georgia is one of the most fertile breeding grounds in the world for sub-Antarctic wildlife, with beaches blanketed with penguins and seals. It won’t take you long to realize that you are in a birder’s paradise, as burrowing seabirds, albatross and petrels can be seen in abundance. You’ll find that South Georgia, once a popular base for whalers and sealers, is also scattered with abandoned relics and evidence of human activity from centuries gone by. Your Expedition Team will help bring those days to life while you visit old whaling stations and enjoy presentations on the South Georgia of then and now. One of the most significant sites you will visit on the island is Grytviken. This settlement is one of the first whaling stations established in sub-Antarctic waters. Grytviken possesses a special appeal largely because it’s the site of the grave of Sir Ernest Shackleton, one of the most famous Antarctic explorers.

  • Day 10 & 11: At Sea

    Say goodbye to the king penguins as you leave for your next destination: Antarctica. Your days at sea are filled with presentations and workshops led by your Expedition Team, who will prepare you for the wildlife and landscapes that will surround you upon your arrival on the 7th Continent.

  • Day 12 to 15: Antarctic Peninsula

    The most common reaction upon reaching Antarctica is a sense of reverence and awe. The experience is hard to put into words, since few places are as untouched and enduring as Antarctica. You will discover a land of extremes. One moment you’ll be overcome with a feeling of complete isolation and silence, and the next moment you’ll be inspired by nature as a calving glacier crashes into a brilliant blue sea or a curious penguin waddles by to observe you. Your Expedition Team will take care of you at each excursion, whether you are Zodiac cruising, visiting a historical site or observing penguin colonies. Chinstrap, Adélie and gentoo penguins are found here, along with Weddell, fur, crabeater and leopard seals. Keep a lookout for Antarctic whales, such as minkes, while on a Zodiac cruise. Each day and each excursion will present a new array of creatures to delight you and keep your camera busy. As exciting as the Zodiac excursions and landings are, perhaps you’ll treat yourself to an extra-special Antarctic experience by booking an optional paddling excursion (at an extra cost) or cast reason aside and jump into Antarctic waters for the Polar Plunge!

  • Day 16 & 17: Crossing the Drake Passage

    After more than a dozen days of unique wildlife sightings and remarkable landscapes, your journey home begins. Crossing the Drake is your unofficial rite of passage. Spend time on deck watching for seabirds and whales, enjoy presentations by your Expedition Team, or simply relax and reminisce about your experiences.

  • Day 18: Disembark in Ushuaia

    You will arrive in Ushuaia in the morning, after which you can continue exploring locally or head to the airport to connect to your onward flight.

  • Please Note:

    Embracing the unexpected is part of the legacy – and excitement – of expedition travel. There are no guarantees that we can achieve everything we set out to accomplish. A measure of flexibility is something all of us must bring to a voyage. There are nearly 200 recognized sites in the Antarctic Peninsula and South Shetlands and the places mentioned above may be changed to others equally as interesting.

  • 24 January, 2026 to 10 February, 2026

    Deluxe Veranda Forward Stateroom

    $43,707 NZD pp
    * indicative rate.
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    Deluxe Veranda Forward Stateroom Deck 4 168-195 sq. ft. 1-2 One double bed made up of two twin berths

    Veranda Stateroom

    $45,860 NZD pp
    * indicative rate.
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    Veranda Stateroom Located throughout the ship and approximately 208 sq. f. (19.3 sq. m,) in size, these cabins have one double bed that can be configured into two singles, and seperate sitting area furnished with two club chairs and a reading table. There is a floor to ceiling glass view that opens to a walkout balcony. There is also a desk and chair, TV, state of the art 'infotainment' system and private bathroom with shower, vanity and heated floor. Note: 611 and 612 do not have the club chairs and a reading table.

    Veranda Suite

    $48,668 NZD pp
    * indicative rate.
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    Veranda Suite Located throughout the ship and approximately 205 sq. ft. (19.2 sq. m,) in size, these cabins have one double bed that can be configured into two singles, and seperate sitting area furnished with a sofa-bed. There is a floor to ceiling glass view that opens to a walkout balcony. There is also a desk and chair, TV, state of the art 'infotainment' system and private bathroom with shower, vanity and heated floor.

    Studio Single

    $57,373 NZD pp
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    Studio Single Deck 3 177 sq. ft. 1-2 One double bed made up of two twin berths

    Junior Suite

    $57,373 NZD pp
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    Junior Suite Deck 6 296-299 sq. ft. 1-2 Two rooms. One double bed made up of two twin berths fold out sofa bed

    Studio Veranda Single

    $62,053 NZD pp
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    Studio Veranda Single Deck 7 238 sq. ft. 1 One twin single

    Penthouse Suite

    $66,639 NZD pp
    * indicative rate.
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    Penthouse Suite This unique 2-room suite is located on Deck 7 and is approximately 269 sq. f (25.0 sq. m.) in size. It has one double bed that can be configured into two singles in the inner bedroom.and the outer sitting area is furnished with a sofa-bed. Walk-out from either room to a double sized balcony . There are also 2 TV's, state of the art 'infotainment' system and private bathroom with shower, vanity and heated floor. And an additional powder room in the outside sitting area.

    Owners Suite

    $71,132 NZD pp
    * indicative rate.
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    Owners Suite Deck 7 443 sq. ft. 1-2 Two rooms. One double bed made up of two twin berths fold out sofa bed
  • 01 February, 2026 to 18 February, 2026

    Triple Cabin. From

    $34,968 NZD pp
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    Triple Cabin. From Located on Deck 6, and approximately 246 sq. ft. (23 sq. m) in size, these cabins have one double or two single beds, and a 55 sq. ft. (5 sq. m) walk-out balcony. A separate combo sitting area/bedroom with a sofa bed and additional closet, refrigerator, TV, state of the art “infotainment” system, and private bathroom with shower is also featured in each cabin.

    Infinity Suite. From

    $41,192 NZD pp
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    Infinity Suite. From Located on Decks 5 and 6, and approximately 270 sq. ft. (25 sq. m) in size, these cabins have one double or two single beds, and a floor-to-ceiling glass Juliet balcony. A sitting area with sofa, refrigerator, TV, state of the art “infotainment” system, and private bathroom with shower is also featured in each cabin.

    Veranda Suite. From

    $41,192 NZD pp
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    Veranda Suite. From Located on Decks 5 and 6, and approximately 215 sq. ft. (20 sq. m) in size, these cabins have one double or two single beds, and a 55 sq. ft. (5 sq. m) walk-out balcony. A sitting area with sofa, refrigerator, TV, state of the art “infotainment” system, and private bathroom with shower is also featured in each cabin.

    Superior Suite. From

    $53,559 NZD pp
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    Superior Suite. From Located on Decks 5 and 6, and approximately 278 sq. ft. (26 sq. m) in size, these cabins have one double or two single beds, and a 110 sq. ft. (10 sq. m) walk-out balcony with access from sitting room and bedroom. A separate sitting area with sofa, walk-in closet, refrigerator, TV, state of the art “infotainment” system, and private bathroom with shower is also featured in each cabin.

    Deluxe. From

    $57,654 NZD pp
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    Deluxe. From Located on Deck 5, and approximately 334 sq. ft. (31 sq. m) in size, these cabins have one double or two single beds, and a 110 sq. ft. (10 sq. m) walk-out balcony with access from sitting room and bedroom. A separate sitting area with sofa, his & hers closets, refrigerator, TV, state of the art “infotainment” system, and private bathroom with shower and his & hers sinks is also featured in each cabin.

    Owner's Suite. From

    $61,749 NZD pp
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    Owner's Suite. From Located on Decks 5 and 6, and approximately 355 sq. ft. (33 sq. m) in size, these cabins have one double or two single beds, and a 110 sq. ft. (10 sq. m) walk-out balcony with access from sitting room and bedroom. A separate sitting area with sofa, refrigerator, TV, state of the art “infotainment” system, and private bathroom with shower, his & hers sinks, and bathtub is also featured in each cabin.
  • 27 October, 2027 to 13 November, 2027

    Deluxe Veranda Forward

    $37,058 NZD pp
    * indicative rate.
    Book now
    Deluxe Veranda Forward Located on Deck 4 and approximately 182 sq. f. (16.9 sq. m,) in size, these cabins have one double bed that can be configured into two singles. There is a floor to ceiling glass view that opens to a walkout balcony. There is also a desk and chair, TV, state of the art 'infotainment' system and private bathroom with shower, vanity and heated floor.

    Veranda Stateroom

    $39,159 NZD pp
    * indicative rate.
    Book now
    Veranda Stateroom Located throughout the ship and approximately 208 sq. f. (19.3 sq. m,) in size, these cabins have one double bed that can be configured into two singles, and seperate sitting area furnished with two club chairs and a reading table. There is a floor to ceiling glass view that opens to a walkout balcony. There is also a desk and chair, TV, state of the art 'infotainment' system and private bathroom with shower, vanity and heated floor. Note: 611 and 612 do not have the club chairs and a reading table.

    Veranda Suite

    $41,660 NZD pp
    * indicative rate.
    Book now
    Veranda Suite Located throughout the ship and approximately 205 sq. ft. (19.2 sq. m,) in size, these cabins have one double bed that can be configured into two singles, and seperate sitting area furnished with a sofa-bed.  There is a floor to ceiling glass view that opens to a walkout balcony.  There is also a desk and chair, TV, state of the art 'infotainment' system and private bathroom with shower, vanity and heated floor.

    Studio Single

    $49,663 NZD pp
    * indicative rate.
    Book now
    Studio Single Designed for one. These cabins are located on Deck 3 and approximately 166 sq. ft. (15,4 sq. m,) in size, with one double bed and a porthole view. There is also a desk and chair, TV, state of the art 'infotainment' system and private bathroom with shower, vanity and heated floor.

    Junior Suite

    $49,663 NZD pp
    * indicative rate.
    Book now
    Junior Suite Located on Deck 6 and approximately 298 sq. f. (27.7 sq. m,) in size. These 2-room suites have one double bed that can be configured into two singles in the inner bedroom and an outer sitting room furnished with a sofa-bed, and activity table for two. From the bedroom there a floor to ceiling glass view that opens to a double sized walkout balcony. There are also 2 TV's, state of the art 'infotainment' system and private bathroom with bathtub, vanity and heated floor.

    Studio Veranda Single

    $53,864 NZD pp
    * indicative rate.
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    Studio Veranda Single Designed for one. This unique cabin is located on Deck 7 and approximately 162 sq. f. (15.1 sq. m.). It has one twin bed with a floor to ceiling glass view that opens to a generous walkout balcony. There is also TV, state of the art 'infotainment' system and private bathroom with shower, vanity and heated floor.

    Penthouse Suite

    $58,166 NZD pp
    * indicative rate.
    Book now
    Penthouse Suite This unique 2-room suite is located on Deck 7 and is approximately 269 sq. f (25.0 sq. m.) in size. It has one double bed that can be configured into two singles in the inner bedroom.and the outer sitting area is furnished with a sofa-bed. Walk-out from either room to a double sized balcony . There are also 2 TV's, state of the art 'infotainment' system and private bathroom with shower, vanity and heated floor. And an additional powder room in the outside sitting area. 

    Owners Suite

    $62,367 NZD pp
    * indicative rate.
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    Owners Suite This palatial, airy apartment offers stunning views from its large private veranda on the highest cabin level. The luxurious suite features a large master bedroom, living room and dining area and two large master bathrooms, among other amenities. 
  • 21 December, 2027 to 07 January, 2028

    Infinity Suite

    $46,559 NZD pp
    * indicative rate.
    Book now
    Infinity Suite Located on Decks 5 and 6, and approximately 270 sq. ft. (25 sq. m) in size, these cabins have one double or two single beds, and a floor-to-ceiling glass Juliet balcony. A sitting area with sofa, refrigerator, TV, state of the art “infotainment” system, and private bathroom with shower is also featured in each cabin.

    Veranda Suite

    $49,060 NZD pp
    * indicative rate.
    Book now
    Veranda Suite Located on Decks 5 and 6, and approximately 215 sq. ft. (20 sq. m) in size, these cabins have one double or two single beds, and a 55 sq. ft. (5 sq. m) walk-out balcony. A sitting area with sofa, refrigerator, TV, state of the art “infotainment” system, and private bathroom with shower is also featured in each cabin.

    Superior Suite

    $63,966 NZD pp
    * indicative rate.
    Book now
    Superior Suite Located on Decks 5 and 6, and approximately 270 sq. ft. (25 sq. m) in size, these cabins have one double or two single beds, and a 100 sq. ft. (9.5 sq. m) walk-out balcony with access from sitting room and bedroom. A separate sitting area with sofa, walk-in closet, refrigerator, TV, state of the art “infotainment” system, and private bathroom with shower is also featured in each cabin.

    Deluxe Suite

    $68,867 NZD pp
    * indicative rate.
    Book now
    Deluxe Suite Located on Deck 5, and approximately 345 sq. ft. (32 sq. m) in size, these cabins have one double or two single beds, and a 100 sq. ft. (9.5 sq. m) walk-out balcony with access from sitting room and bedroom. A separate sitting area with sofa, double closets, refrigerator, TV, state of the art “infotainment” system, and private bathroom with shower is also featured in each cabin.

    Owner's Suite

    $73,869 NZD pp
    * indicative rate.
    Book now
    Owner's Suite Located on Decks 5 and 6, and approximately 365 sq. ft. (34 sq. m) in size, these cabins have one double or two single beds, and a 100 sq. ft. (9.5 sq. m) walk-out balcony with access from sitting room and bedroom. A separate sitting area with sofa, refrigerator, TV, state of the art “infotainment” system, and private bathroom with shower, dual vanity, and bathtub is also featured in each cabin.
  • Ocean Explorer

    Ocean Explorer

    Vessel Type: Polar Expedition

    Length: 342 ft (104.4 m)

    Passenger Capacity: 138

    Built: 2021

    The Ocean Explorer is a modern, purpose-built expedition vessel combining contemporary elegance with advanced polar exploration technology. Accommodating up to 138 guests, this state-of-the-art ship features the innovative ULSTEIN X-BOW® design, which ensures smooth, stable sailing even in rough seas. A highlight of the vessel is its stunning two-story, glass-walled library located at the bow—perfect for quiet reflection with panoramic views of the polar landscapes. Almost all spacious cabins include private verandas, while the ship’s sleek Scandinavian-inspired interiors create a sense of understated luxury. Guests can unwind in the fitness centre, sauna with large windows overlooking the ice, or one of two outdoor Jacuzzis while taking in the surrounding scenery.

    Designed with both exploration and comfort in mind, Ocean Explorer offers generous outdoor viewing spaces and elevated observation decks for exceptional photography and wildlife watching. A fleet of 15 Zodiacs ensures quick, safe embarkation for off-ship adventures. Social spaces such as the elegant Main Dining Room, Latitude Bar, and Observation Lounge provide a refined yet relaxed atmosphere, complemented by fuel-efficient Rolls-Royce engines and cutting-edge sustainability systems, including waste-to-energy technology. Every detail of the Ocean Explorer reflects innovation, comfort, and environmental consciousness—setting a new standard for luxury expedition cruising.

    Cabin layout for Ocean Explorer
  • World Explorer

    World Explorer

    Vessel Type: Expedition Ship

    Length: 126 metres

    Passenger Capacity: 176

    Built: 2017

    Distinct and comfortable, refined and roomy—these attributes and more describe World Explorer. Not only will it be among our fastest ships, it will also be one of our finest, with six tiers of deluxe accommodation.

    The personal space is exceptional. Every cabin has either a private walk-out or Juliet balcony for direct ocean views. World Explorer also delivers plenty of public areas to unwind in after a day outdoors, including the glass-domed Observation Lounge for quiet contemplation and full skyline views, the Explorer Lounge for a drink and a chat, and the library for more intimate relaxing and reading. Presentations and discussions are facilitated in a dedicated lecture theatre.

    Health and wellness facilities feature an outdoor running track, a small gym and a sauna, plus a spa with change rooms, showers and lockers. For the active adventurers, add-ons include kayaking, camping and stand-up paddleboarding.

    Blending high design with total functionality, World Explorer is all set to be your home away from home on the seas.

    Cabin:

    - All cabins have exterior views and private bathroom facilities

    - TV and safe in every cabin

    - Individual temperature controls

    - Electrical supply: 220v

    Aboard:

    - Chef-prepared meals (all meals and daily snack included)

    - One dining room with unreserved seating

    - Bar staffed by a professional bartender serving a selection of soft drinks, juices, liquors, spirits, beer and wine, which can be charged to your shipboard account

    - Comfortable lounge area for reading or relaxing with a cup of coffee

    - Observation decks for spotting wildlife and enjoying the ever-changing polar landscape

    - Polar library stocked with a large collection of polar books, and games

    - Gym

    - Pool & sauna

    - Spa facilities and wellness program

    - Lecture theatre

    - Polar Boutique

    - Ship-to-shore satellite communications with email and wireless Internet access

    Activities:

    - Zodiac Cruising (included)

    - Kayaking (additional charge)

    - Camping (additional charge)

    - Standup Paddleboarding (additional charge)

    Cabin layout for World Explorer
  • World Voyager

    World Voyager

    Vessel Type: Yacht

    Length: 129 m

    Passenger Capacity: 198

    Built: 2022

    Experience extraordinary Antarctica to the fullest and in the shortest amount of time aboard our newest yacht. Spend more time exploring the Antarctic Peninsula by flying over the Drake Passage one way and still lay claim to the iconic experience of sailing the other direction with our options. Or, if you’re an intrepid explorer, you can still conquer the famed Drake Passage both ways with all Ushuaia Roundtrip expeditions.

    YOUR SANCTUARY AT SEA After a day of roaming, venturing and exploring, indulge in the comfort of a balcony accommodation or modern suite — plus accommodations exclusively for solo travelers. Every room features a spacious bathroom outfitted with L’OCCITANE amenities, plush bedding designed for dreaming, flat-screen TVs with state-of-the-art infotainment systems for downtime and sitting or living areas to unwind. Gaze at the horizon as you replay the adventures of the day.

    TASTE PERFECTION When dining goes beyond simply being a meal and becomes an experience you look forward to every day, both your appetite and your soul are satiated. Our onboard dining options offer extraordinary culinary adventures with globally inspired gourmet cuisine artfully crafted to awaken your senses one delectable morsel at a time. From Portuguese soul food alfresco with an ocean view to breakfast in bed before embarking on your next endeavors, every detail is taken into careful consideration to deliver an upscale experience with simple elegance.

    ONBOARD LIFE At Atlas Ocean Voyages, we encourage a holistic approach to life that incorporates mind, body and spirit. Connect with like-spirited explorers during Après Sea and satisfy your curiosity with exceptional guest lecturers to relish every aspect of a stimulating journey. From appreciating the dining experience to keeping up an exercise routine while on holiday to taking time for self-care, we cultivate an atmosphere of overall well-being in every space on board World Voyager.

    MAKE YOURSELF AT HOME Aboard our intimate, yacht World Voyager you will find everything you want and need. Including three decks of spacious and elevated accommodations, various onboard dining options, spa and sauna amenities, social spaces for gathering with your fellow travelers and more, World Voyager has been designed to always deliver relaxed luxury and highly personalized service.

    CONSCIOUS NAVIGATION An innovative hydro-jet propulsion system allows the purpose-built World Voyager to bring you closer to the environment and wildlife. The system gives the ship a quieter sound that’s less disruptive to the ecosystem, making for up-close and personal encounters that leave you in awe.








    Cabin layout for World Voyager

Paddling Excursion

Glide through the pristine polar waters in a sit-on-top, two-person, inflatable kayak for an unforgettable experience in the Arctic and Antarctic wilderness. These stable, rugged and comfortable crafts are an ideal way to see the polar regions from a different perspective. Experienced guides will lead you safely throughout the paddling excursion. Your group will always be escorted by an additional safety driver who will stay close by to provide additional support.

Sea Kayaking

The kayak adventure option is open to all levels of experience. However, it is highly recommended that you have some sea kayaking related experience prior to kayaking in the polar regions with Quark Expeditions. Our sea kayaks are the ideal means by which to slow down and connect with the pristine natural environments and surroundings.

Stand-up Paddleboarding

Stand-up Paddleboarding, popularly known as SUPing, originated in Hawaii. Quark Expeditions is the first company to bring this watersport all the way to Antarctica. SUPing combines the immersive experience of kayaking but in a standing position. Participants, if they prefer, can kneel, sit or even lie down and stare up at the azure Antarctic sky. Because of their wide base and tail fins, SUP boards are quite stable, enabling participants – after a bit of practice – to stop staring at their feet and admire the surrounding scenery. Imagine seeing Gentoo penguins gliding below you, or making eye contact with a Weddell seal lying on a piece of ice as you paddle by. Guests receive on-ship and on-water instruction from a qualified SUP guide. In addition, a safety driver (in a Zodiac) stays within range to offer assistance.

Special Offers

Online prices reflect current special offers and may vary based on demand. This promotion is time limited and subject to availability. Terms and conditions apply. For more information, please contact us.

Ocean Explorer
Expedition on Ocean Explorer

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