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Every voyage into Antarctica is a wildlife lover’s dream journey. And this trip will certainly be no different. Expect to encounter a variety of iconic penguins, any number of different seal species, and Antarctica’s always-majestic icebergs. But this voyage will feature one notable exception to the rule: This time of year, whale spotting is at its entertaining best, with large numbers of giant Humpbacks feeding on the abundance of krill in the water. Orcas and Minkes are also common sightings on this very special voyage into the last truly wild place on Earth.
Highlights
• Embark on an unforgettable journey to Antarctica from the southernmost city in the world, Ushuaia, after a luxurious stay at Arakur Resort & Spa.
• Explore the South Shetland Islands, encountering diverse wildlife including penguins, seals, and whales amidst stunning landscapes sculpted by volcanic activity.
• Conclude your expedition with lasting memories as you disembark in Ushuaia, either to catch a flight to Buenos Aires or to continue your adventures in this captivating region.
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Day 1: Arrive in & Explore Ushuaia
After a friendly welcome at the airport and a transfer to the luxurious Arakur Resort & Spa, take some time to unwind or explore the southernmost city in the world, Ushuaia.
Our evening briefing at the Arakur is your opportunity to ask questions and meet some of your fellow explorers.
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Day 2: Embarkation
Spend your morning relaxing at the hotel, visiting a museum, or exploring the shops in Ushuaia, before our mid-afternoon escort to the ship. Our Expedition Team and ship staff will welcome you on board and get you settled in, followed by a safety and orientation briefing and our Captain’s welcome dinner. We’re on our way to Antarctica!
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Day 3-4: Drake Passage
Join our Polar Experts as they share their vast knowledge of Antarctica, from its enchanting wildlife to its bold history. Participate in our pioneering Citizen Science program, or sit back and take in this fabled journey while catching glimpses of rarely-seen wildlife. Keep your binoculars handy to identify the many seabirds that escort our ship as we cross the Antarctic Convergence into Antarctica’s waters and noticeably cooler temperatures, your cue to get ready for that first iceberg sighting, an unforgettable moment on every journey.
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Days 5–6: South Shetland Islands
The South Shetlands are 12 islands separated from the Antarctic Peninsula by the Bransfield Strait. Significant volcanic activity has sculpted a geology – and a diverse natural beauty – unlike anywhere else on Earth. Here, you can expect a spectacular display of mountains, glaciers, and wildlife, including Chinstrap and Gentoo penguins, and it’s not uncommon to share the water’s edge with Elephant and Fur seals. And this time of year is feeding time for Humpback whales, so don’t be surprised if you’re joined by a number of them on your day’s adventure.
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Days 7–9: Antarctica (and Whales) Await
On to the Antarctic Peninsula, where we’ll explore any number of stunning bays and famed landing sites, maneuvering through majestic channels as we continue to navigate these wildlife-rich waters, passing any number of glorious icebergs, on our way to historic landing sites and perhaps even an active scientific base. Of course, a particular highlight of this voyage is the privilege of spending an extra day in the company of the giant Humpback whale – or many of them! – feeding on the abundance of krill in the water this time of year. Orcas and Minkes are also common sightings, as are a variety of penguins and seals.
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Days 10–11: Drake Passage
We leave this magical place and make our way north, once again crossing the legendary Drake Passage. We have one last hurrah as we celebrate the conclusion of our expedition with a special slideshow and a final meal together.
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Day 12: Ushuaia Disembarkation
With huge smiles on weary, content faces, we disembark in the morning, letting you catch a flight to Buenos Aires or stay in Ushuaia for more sights and adventure.
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Please note:
Itineraries are subject to change.
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04 March, 2027 to 15 March, 2027
Deck 3 Superior Staterooms are 18m2 and feature a picture window, queen-size bed with twin option, and marble bathroom with shower.Deck 4 Superior Staterooms are 18m2 and feature a large picture window, queen-size bed with twin option, and marble bathroom with shower.Deck 5 Superior Balcony Staterooms are 19m2 -20m2 including a 1.5m2 French balcony, queen-size bed with twin option, and marble bathroom with shower.Located on Deck 5, Discovery Suites are 39m2 including a 1.5m2 French balcony, living room with desk and sofa (converts to single bed), vanity table, walk-in closet and marble bathroom with separate shower and bathtub.Located on Deck 7, Navigator Suites are 37m2 including an 8m2 furnished balcony, queen-size bed with twin option, and marble bathroom with separate shower and bathtub.Located on Deck 7, Worsley Suites are 57m2 including a 8m2 furnished private balcony, living room with desk and sofa (converts to single bed), espresso machine, vanity table, walk-in closet and marble bathroom with separate shower and bathtub.Deck 4 Superior Single Staterooms are 16m2 -18m2 and feature a large picture window, queen-size bed with twin option, and marble bathroom with shower.Located on Deck 7, Heritage Suites are 67m2 including a 15m2 furnished private balcony, living room with desk and sofa (converts to single bed), espresso machine, vanity table, walk-in closet and marble bathroom with separate shower and bathtub.
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Heritage Discoverer
Heritage Discoverer
Vessel Type: Expedition Ship
Length: 108 metres
Passenger Capacity: 130
Built / Refurbished: 1989 / 2023 / 2026
Heritage Discoverer is a purpose-built expedition ship designed to navigate some of the world’s most remote and challenging regions, from Antarctica and the Northwest Passage to tropical islands and remote atolls. With a 1A ice-class rating and a history of exploration, she combines serious expedition capability with refined comfort. Following extensive renovations in 2018 and 2023, the ship offers a fresh and contemporary onboard experience while retaining the strength and functionality required for polar and remote cruising.
Accommodating up to 130 guests, Heritage Discoverer features 70 ocean-view accommodations, including spacious suites with private balconies, as well as a range of inviting public spaces designed for relaxation, learning, and scenic viewing. Guests can enjoy gourmet dining across two restaurants, unwind in the Observation Lounge, Bar and Lounge, or Wellness Centre, and take advantage of amenities including a gym, sauna, massage room, and outdoor Jacuzzis. Supported by a 15-member Expedition Team and 14 Zodiacs, the ship delivers an immersive and comfortable expedition experience with personalised service throughout.
Discover Kayaking $625 NZD
Immersive Kayaking $2,131 NZD
Immersive Photography $883 NZD
