Congratulations on booking your expedition to Antarctica!
Information for passengers travelling on board the Greg Mortimer and Sylvia Earle.
We are thrilled you will be travelling on this incredible adventure to the White Continent. Here you will find additional details that we require from you, information to help you plan for your trip as well as some ideas on other destinations you might like to visit in South America either before or after your Antarctica cruise. At any time if you wish to discuss the details or your cruise or additional travel arrangements including flights, insurance, pre and post tour travel arrangements please contact your booking agent.
IMPORTANT INFORMATION
Arrival in Ushuaia or Punta Arenas
For passengers beginning in either Punta Arenas or Ushuaia, Day One of your itinerary is an arrival day. You will be met at the airport by a representative and transferred to your hotel. In the afternoon you will attend a mandatory briefing that provides important information about your cruise.
Disembarkation in Ushuaia
On the day of disembarkation we highly recommend that you book your flights to depart after 12 noon. Please be aware that we will not be held responsible for the late arrival of the ship from your voyage.
Disembarkation in Punta Arenas (Fly the Drake)
For fly cruises that fly back from King George Island(South Shetland Islands) generally one night’s post cruise accommodation is included. You can fly out the next day from Punta Arenas at any time. Please check with your agent if your departure includes this post cruise accommodation.
Fuel Surcharges
Please note that your cruise booking may be subject to fuel surcharges should world oil prices increase significantly prior to the time of your departure. Cruise operators do attempt to factor this price into your tour cost. However, unexpected rises in the cost of marine fuel can result in a fuel surcharge that will depend on the cost of oil per barrel and the individual ship operator. By booking a tour with us, you agree that this may be the case with your booking. You will be advised of any surcharge once we have been notified of the surcharges from the cruise operator if this situation arises.
International Flights to meet your cruise
International flights to join your cruise will be available for booking approximately 11 months prior to tour departure date. Please contact your booking agent to discuss flight options available for your travel arrangements. Please see below for some suggestions on pre and post cruise itinerary options in South America.
Travel Insurance
Travel insurance is compulsory for all travellers and policy details must be provided prior to your final documentation being issued. We strongly recommend you obtain a policy for the level of cover at the time of booking you are comfortable with ensuring it meets our minimum guidelines. For more information on Travel Insurance please refer to the Antarctica Travellers Guide below or contact your booking agent.
Terms and Conditions
By making the booking, he or she has read and has agreed to be bound by these terms and conditions. Please click HERE to view.
FORMS
International Maritime Regulations require that all passenger information is collected and a manifest is kept for each expedition. To fulfill these obligations, certain information is required from you. We will send you forms as they become available for your voyage, please fill these out in a timely manner and send them back to us NO LATER THAN 100 days prior to departure (or as the form states). Some forms can be submitted directly online.
Some examples of the forms you may need to fill out are: 'Passenger Details Form', 'Medical Form', 'Parka Size Form', and 'Optional Activity Form'. You will receive the required forms for your expedition from your booking agent.
EXPEDITION CLOTHING
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OPTIONAL ACTIVITIES
The following activities are available on selected voyages. All activities have limited spots and are subject to availability. Contact your booking agent for more information, to check availability, and pricing:
-Kayaking
Kayaking in the far-flung corners of the world is an experience guaranteed to refresh your soul. Paddling in small groups, you will glide between ice flows, brash ice and icebergs dotted with wildlife. Previous kayaking experience is required.
-Snowshoeing
Snowshoeing is a unique way to explore Antarctica. Snowshoeing makes walking up gentle slopes a breeze, allowing you to explore places others struggle to reach in boots alone. Snowshoeing is the perfect activity for everyone, with no previous experience required.
-Photography Work Shops
On selected expeditions specialised photography programs and workshops for both amateurs and more experienced photographers are offered.
-Antarctica Camping
Antarctica camping is available on select departures subject to weather. You won't be using tents for your camping experience, as the experience is best enjoyed without blocking the amazing surrounds we’ve come to admire.
-Ski/Snowboarding Touring
Ski/Snowboarding tours offer keen adventurers a chance to take on some of the world’s most incredible slopes. Experienced participants will have the chance to enjoy day-trips to traverse across remote, snow-capped peaks to descend into pristine bays filled with floating bergs, penguin rookeries or even a breaching whale! Those interested in a multi-day ski adventure can opt to attempt Shackleton’s route across South Georgia.
-Polar Scuba Diving
Polar scuba diving is a truly inspiring and unforgettable experience, in 1998 Aurora Expeditions offered the world-first commercial dive trip to Antarctica. Antarctic diving reveals a world of ice, where glaciers, gigantic icebergs and a unique blend of marine life greet us, making for a very special experience.
-Polar Snorkeling
Polar snorkeling was launched in 2014, and through crystal clear waters you’ll discover the amazing mobility and speed of penguins entering and exiting from the ice, marvel at beautiful sculpted icebergs below the water and witness marine life.
-Alpine Trekking
Alpine trekking along the Antarctic Peninsula coastline. Hundreds of peaks rise several thousand feet, snow-clad and beckoning eager adventure seekers. From ascents of alpine peaks to ice climbing, the program aims to give participants a taste of the region’s fantastic climbing opportunities.
RESOURCES & CRUISE EXTENSIONS
We have some additional resources to help you prepare for your upcoming trip to Antarctica, as well as some excellent itinerary ideas to explore South America pre or post your cruise.
Optional Activity
Camping
Experience the sights and sounds of being in the elements at night. Witness dramatic light changes and the clamor of scurrying penguins on a true outdoor adventure.
Optional Activity
Kayaking
Paddle through the majesty of the icebergs with your guide and live the experience of seeing varied birds, seals and whales in their natural habitat.
Optional Activity
Snowshoeing
Head off the beaten track to walk atop fresh snow and visit places that are inaccessible by foot with our showshoeing excursions available on this voyage.
About the
Greg Mortimer
As a modern and custom-designed ship, the Greg Mortimer is at the cutting edge of nautical technology. This ship is robust, powerful and built with our guests in mind.
About the
Sylvia Earle
Featuring industry-leading technology and streamlined cruising design the Sylvia Earle is one of the most modern and technologically advanced vessels sailing the polar regions.
Travellers Guide
Antarctica
Check out our Antarctica Travellers Guide to help you prepare for your Antarctica adventure. Includes information about joining cities, what to pack and more.
Beyond Antarctica
South America Add-ons
There are many incredible places to explore in South America. Let us inspire you with our top itineraries to add pre or post your Antarctic cruise.
Travellers Guide
Latin America
Useful traveller information about each country in Latin America, from the climate, visa requirements, local currency and everything in between.