Antarctica by Helicopter 12 Day | Ultramarine
12 Days
Save Up To 10%
WAS From £ 16,095 Now From £ 14,603
STYLE: Small Ship Luxury Expedition Cruise
Trip Code: ACQEUAH
DIFFICULTY RATING: 2 (light adventure)
Start: Buenos Aires, Argentina
Finish: Buenos Aires, Argentina
SHIP: Ultramarine
Destination
Antarctic Peninsula
Meals
All meals, snacks, soft drinks & juices on board. Beer, standard wines & spirits, & cocktails during pre-dinner bar service, dinner & evenings
Transport
Group transfers throughout & return charter flight Buenos Aires to Ushuaia
Accommodation
Hotel & Cabin on board ship
DEPARTURE DATES
Enquire Now
Included Sightseeing
Heli flightseeing, Daily Antarctica Excursions, Zodiac Cruising, Onboard Expert Lectures & Briefings by the Experienced Expedition Team, Express Bus Tour of Tierra Del Fuego National Park
NOTE: Itinerary is subject to change depending on weather & ice conditions
OVERVIEW
Venture beyond the typical and explore Antarctica's seldom-visited east coast. An innovative 12-day Antarctica itinerary with special sightseeing by helicopter. Icebergs, mountains and remote lands are the highlights of this itinerary which maximizes your opportunities to explore the interior of the magical 7th Continent, as well as Erebus and Terror Gulf, Antarctic Sound, and the vast Weddell Sea. It offers helicopter adventures that no one else can.Expect unparalleled vistas that you could never have imagined: carved icebergs rising out of the ocean's depths, and snow-capped peaks that entice you to reach out and touch as you soar by.
ITINERARY
Upon arriving in this cosmopolitan city, much celebrated for its architecture and rich European heritage, you will independently transfer to your group hotel (pre-expedition hotel night included in mandatory transfer package).
After an early breakfast at the hotel, the group will transfer to the airport and board our private charter flight to Ushuaia, Argentina. Upon arrival, you will be transferred from the airport to a central downtown location to enjoy some time on your own to explore this quaint port town before making your way to the pier. After a late afternoon embarkation, you will sail along 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— the next time you see land, you'll be in the remote Antarctic wilderness.
Crossing the legendary 800-km stretch of water is a must-do for many travelers. Prepare yourself for dramatic seascapes as you stand on the deck of Ultramarine and gaze at the water stretching beyond the distant horizon. Be on the lookout fo dolphins, whales, and seabirds, especially albatrosses, petrels and skuas as they glide over the sometimes rough waters. As the ship approaches the Antarctic Peninsula, keep your eyes peeled for your first glimpse of towering, multi-shaped icebergs.
Today we cross the Antarctic Convergence, moving into the biological Antarctic, where the warmer waters of the sub-Antarctic meet the cold Antarctic. Your days at sea are filled with presentations led by your Expedition Team on photography, wildlife, glaciology, and history. In between presentations, spend time on deck looking for wildlife or chatting with your shipmates over a drink at the bar.
Helicopter operations in Antarctica are acutely weather-dependent. We have designed this itinerary so we can spend time each day in stunning locations that allow us to enjoy helicopter opportunities if the weather allows and, alternately, to maximize your experience of Antarctic wildlife, ice and landscapes when flying conditions are not favorable. Each day on the Antarctic Peninsula will showcase the flexibility and technical prowess of our industry-leading expedition team, pilots and crew.
As Ultramarine gains access to the Antarctic Peninsula, our team will look for opportunities to experience Antarctica beyond the coast and over the expansive glacial terrain of the last great wilderness.
Together, Antarctic Sound, Erebus and Terror Gulf, northwestern Weddell Sea are the theater of this venture. Initially we plan to sail into Antarctic Sound where we will visit two towering geological features:
Madder Cliffs on Joinville Island, and Brown Bluff on the most northerly tip of the Antarctic Continent. Our goal is to visit large Adélie penguin colonies in this area by Zodiac. Gentoo penguins and seals also frequently roam this coast. There will be time to marvel at the impressive topography, namely the 678 meter (2,225-foot) volcanic rock cliffs at Brown Bluff- though, if weather allows, we may pivot from our marine operations and embark on our first flightseeing experience of the voyage. What you will have just seen from sea, you will now experience from the sky as you gaze over the vastness of Antarctica with the perspective of a snow petrel.
Continuing through Antarctic Sound and into Erebus and Terror Gulf, located on the tip of the southeast side of the Antarctic Peninsula, Ultramarine will be positioned to maximize both helicopter and Zodiac excursions. The James Ross
Island group, which comprises several Islands, offers myriad opportunities to explore historically relevant sites that were discovered by the Swedish Antarctic Expedition of 1901-04. Upon landing, we plan to hike to a summit to view an Adélie penguin colony, as well as the northern Weddell Sea. If the tide is low, there may be grounded bergs in the shallow waters— a surreal sight you're unlikely to encounter on many polar expeditions. These islands, highly valued for their geological significance, are home to fossil finds, ventifacts (ancient rocks polished smooth over time by wind and grains of sand) and the remains of the KT Boundary, which marks the transition between the Cretaceous Period (dinosaurs and reptiles) and the Tertiary Period (mammals). Our goal is to provide opportunities for you to see ventifacts up close, to better appreciate the significance of wind erosion-by sand or ice particles— over long periods of time. These ventifacts provide valuable information about the climatic history and prevailing wind patterns of the region.
As already mentioned, atmospheric conditions influence when and where we fly-on any day of our voyage-at any of the superb locations in the region.
When not flying, we'll shift our focus from geology to wildlife. For instance, we could Zodiac cruise to Devil Island and head out on a hike that will allow participants to appreciate the twin towering cones of ash and hardened lava that rises from a bay on the north shore of Vega Island. Alternatively, we may aim for renowned Paulet Island, home to one of the largest Adélie penguin rookeries in the area, as well as the historic hut built by members of the Swedish Antarctic Expedition of 1901-04. A cross marks the grave site of Ole Wennersgaard, a member of the c
Take some time, as we journey back across the 800-kilometer Drake Passage, to relax after your off-ship adventures.
Ultramarine is home to Tundra Spa, where you can book a soothing facial treatment or massage. Additionally, you can also relax in the sauna with floor-to-ceiling windows that keep you connected to the polar seas while you rejuvenate indoors.
Your polar learning isn't over. Join our on-board experts as they continue to share their vast polar expertise through scheduled presentations in our Ambassador Theater. The state-of-the-art, high-resolution LED screen wall in the main theater ensures high-definition viewing of presentations from your Expedition Team from any angle. This is an excellent opportunity to ask any lingering questions you have about any aspect of your Antarctic experiences.
You will arrive in Ushuaia in the morning and disembark after breakfast.
The mandatory transfer package includes a tour of Tierra del Fuego National Park for a taste of Patagonia, after which you'll transfer to the airport for the return group charter flight to Buenos Aires.
*Please note: Cruise itinerary is subject to change depending on weather conditions, ice conditions and other factors.
WHY CHOOSE THIS CRUISE?
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Investigate the east side of the Antarctic Peninsula that is little explored.
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Take part in at least two heli-flightseeing tours, which are covered by the trip insurance.*
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Take part in a single heli-landing amid the massive coastline mountains of Antarctica.*
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Exploration of the secluded Antarctic Sound, Erebus and Terror Gulf, and Weddell Sea
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See icebergs that have accumulated and calved from the Filchner-Ronne and Larsen Ice Shelves
Ultramarine
Step onboard the Ultramarine! This premium expedition vessel takes guests to the most isolated and breathtaking wildernesses on the planet. The ship has been purpose-built to meet the specific demands of the polar regions and is well appointed to let guests explore The Arctic and Antarctica safely and comfortably. It offers a robust portfolio of adventure activities. The mix of sustainability features create innovative operations to offer ultra-immersive polar experiences to guests on board .The vessel is one of the few to offer a suite of flight-seeing activities, travelling in one of the two twin-engine helicopters. This really opens up the possibilities to go further and see more. The Expedition Ship can accommodate a maximum of 199 passengers and offers the most spacious suites in its category . The cabins are all elegantly designed and feature oversized windows with sleeping views and spa-inspired bathrooms. Ultramarine offers breathtaking public spaces, and more outdoor wildlife viewing spaces than other expedition ships its size. It also features a best-in-class 70-day operational range, four embarkation points to load and embark zodiacs and get you to shore faster. The ship has a water level Zodiac hangar, which allows for more spontaneous off-ship adventures where the opportunity presents itself. This allows you to get off the ship in less than half the time of some other vessels.
Ice Class:
Length: 128m (420ft)
Breadth: 21.5m (70.5ft)Max
Draft: Cruising
Speed:
Electricity: Passenger
Capacity:199
View Ship Details
Accommodation
We believe that appropriate accommodation should add to the authentic travel experience, as well as providing utmost enjoyment. For that reason our accommodation is scrutinised by our staff on the ground frequently, ensuring the properties adhere to our high standards. This key will help you understand the levels of accommodation available on this tour.
Standard
Comfortable properties with dependable facilities and service.
Superior
Comfortable properties with dependable facilities and service.
Deluxe
Luxurious properties with impeccable facilities and service.
Pricing per person
 | Ultra SuiteFeatures:-
| 10 % off £ 31,395 £ 28,412Available Enquire Now
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 | Owner's SuiteFeatures:-
| 10 % off £ 28,395 £ 25,704Available Enquire Now
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 | Penthouse SuiteFeatures:-
| 10 % off £ 22,995 £ 20,831Available Enquire Now
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 | Terrace SuiteFeatures:-
| 10 % off £ 21,495 £ 19,477Available Enquire Now
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 | Deluxe Balcony SuiteFeatures:-
| 10 % off £ 20,795 £ 18,845Available Enquire Now
|
 | Balcony SuiteFeatures:-
| 10 % off £ 17,695 £ 16,047Available Enquire Now
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 | Explorer SuiteFeatures:-
| 10 % off £ 16,095 £ 14,603Available Enquire Now
|
 | Solo PanoramaFeatures:-
| 10 % off £ 22,295 £ 20,199Available Enquire Now
|
 | Explorer TripleFeatures:-
| 10 % off £ 13,895 £ 12,618Unavailable Enquire Now
|
| Ultra SuiteFeatures:-
| 10 % off £ 31,395 £ 28,412Available Enquire Now
|
| Owner's SuiteFeatures:-
| 10 % off £ 28,395 £ 25,704Unavailable Enquire Now
|
| Penthouse SuiteFeatures:-
| 10 % off £ 22,995 £ 20,831Available Enquire Now
|
| Terrace SuiteFeatures:-
| 10 % off £ 21,495 £ 19,477Available Enquire Now
|
| Deluxe Balcony SuiteFeatures:-
| 10 % off £ 20,795 £ 18,845Available Enquire Now
|
| Balcony SuiteFeatures:-
| 10 % off £ 17,695 £ 16,047Available Enquire Now
|
| Explorer SuiteFeatures:-
| 10 % off £ 16,095 £ 14,603Available Enquire Now
|
| Solo PanoramaFeatures:-
| 10 % off £ 22,295 £ 20,199Available Enquire Now
|
| Explorer TripleFeatures:-
| 10 % off £ 13,895 £ 12,618Unavailable Enquire Now
|
EXTEND YOUR TRIP
Important Information
** Current Discounts, promotions and pricing are available until 02 December 2024, however discounts may be withdrawn or changed at any time and are subject to availability on selected cabins and departure dates. Some current in market offers may be combinable and Shackleton Club Past Passenger and multi trip discounts may be applied subject to confirmation at the time of booking. Prices are subject to change based on currency fluctuations, fuel surcharges, and other external factors. No discount applies to any transfer packages, additional activities or pre/post services. The advertised prices may also include a 'Pay in full at time of booking' which is a 5-10% early payment discount, which requires the full balance to be paid at the time of booking to apply. Further conditions may apply, contact us for more information.
NOTE: Pricing is subject to change, currency fluctuation and availability at the time of booking and may be varied without notice by us or any of the operators and partners we work with. It is only confirmed and guaranteed at the time of making a booking, agreeing to our terms and conditions and paying a deposit.
Prices are based on per person, and vary from single, quad, triple, and twin cabins.
Prices are correct at time of publishing but are subject to change at any time.
All entrance fees are subject to change without prior notice.
Please note this itinerary is subject to change depending on weather and ice conditions.*Includes charter flights from Buenos Aires to Ushuaia on a return basis.
Arrival transfer to Buenos Aires hotel on Day 1 is NOT included.
INCLUSIONS
Cabin accommodation on board ship
All meals, snacks, soft drinks and juices on board throughout your voyage
Beer, standard wines & spirits, & cocktails during pre-dinner bar service, dinner & evenings
Coffee, tea and cocoa available around the clock
All scheduled landings and excursions
Guiding and lectures by experienced expedition team
Expedition parka (yours to keep)
A pair of waterproof expedition boots on loan for landings and Zodiac cruising excursions
One 10 to 15 minute helicopter flight-seeing excursion (weather permitting)
Emergency Evacuation insurance for all passengers to a maximum benefit of USD $500,000 per person
Free WiFiMANDATORY TRANSFER PACKAGE
One night pre transfer accommodation in a hotel in Buenos Aires with breakfast *
*(Note: The number of guests per room is the same as cabin occupancy on the ship. Due to limited availability, travelers who reserve a suite on board are accommodated in standard rooms at the hotel. Triple rooms may not be available.)
Group flights from Buenos Aires to Ushuaia on a return basis
Transfers from the hotel to the airport in Buenos Aires
Airport transfer and express bus tour of Tierra Del Fuego National Park after disembarkation in UshuaiaEXCLUSIONS
International flights
Any other pre or post land arrangements not mentioned above
Passport and visa expenses
Government arrival and departure taxes not mentioned above
Baggage, cancellation, interruption and medical travel insurance—strongly recommended
Mandatory waterproof pants for Zodiac cruising, or any other gear not mentioned
Voluntary gratuity at the end of the voyage for shipboard staff and crew
Excess-baggage fees on international and domestic flights
Laundry, bar and other personal charges unless specified
Optional Adventure Activities
- 2 (light adventure)
Available upon request, a supplement surcharge applies and is subject to availability. Please Contact Us for more information.
Departure date, fuel surcharges, cabin category, currency fluctuations, seasonality and availability.