Penguin Safari: South Georgia & Antarctica | Ocean Explorer

18 Days
Save Up To 19%

WAS From £ 24,995   Now From £ 20,184

STYLE: Small Ship Expedition Cruise 

Trip Code: ACQEAPSE

DIFFICULTY RATING: 2 (light adventure)

Start: Ushuaia, Argentina

Finish: Ushuaia, Argentina

SHIP: Ocean Explorer

DestinationDestination

Antarctic Peninsula, South Georgia

MealsMeals

Breakfast at hotel. All meals & snacks on board. Beer, standard wines & spirits, & cocktails during pre-dinner bar service, dinner & evenings

TransportTransport

Group Transfers On Arrival, Embarkation & Disembarkation

TransportAccommodation

Hotel & Cabin on ship

DEPARTURE DATES

Season 2024-25 Season 2025-26

16 February 2025



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map

Included SightseeingIncluded Sightseeing

Daily Antarctica Excursions, Zodiac Cruising, Onboard Expert Lectures & Briefings by the Experienced Expedition Team

 

NOTE: Itinerary is subject to change depending on weather & ice conditions 

OVERVIEW

Cruise aboard the deluxe, refined and spacious Ocean Explorer to discover the incredible wildlife of South Georgia, the "Galapagos of the Southern Ocean" and then Antarctica - untouched, pristine and unforgettable. South Georgia offers unrivalled wildlife encounters, with beaches carpeted with king and macaroni penguins and the largest king penguin rookeries in the world. Antarctica is the land of extremes, silent and desolate, where the silence is broken only by the sound of calving glaciers crashing into the clear blue waters and noisy penguin colonies alive with chinstrap, Adelie and Gentoo penguins. Zodiac excursions take you amongst the icebergs whilst shore landings bring you in close contact with the wildlife, with opportunities to explore historic sites and maybe even take a Polar plunge!

ITINERARY

Arrival in Ushuaia

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.

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!

At Sea - Day 3 to 6

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.

South Georgia - Day 7 to 9

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 encounters 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.

At Sea - Day 10 to 11

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.

Antarctic Peninsula - Day 12 to 15

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. Eachday 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!

At Sea - Day 16 to 17

After more than a dozen days of unique wildlife encounters 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.

Disembarkation in Ushuaia

You will arrive in Ushuaia in the morning, which allows you to continue your adventure onward or catch your flights home.

DOWNLOAD ITINERARY PDF

WHY CHOOSE THIS CRUISE?

  • Experience this incredible journey on the World Explorer the latest of polar expedition vessels.  

  • Undertake a true expedition experience - hike sparkling glaciers, sit on rocky beaches home to thousands of endemic penguin species.

  • Discover the raw nature of South Georgia, which includes four penguin species, elephant seals and many other species. 

  • Briefly stop at the grave of Sir Ernest Shackleton as you follow his historic expeditions to South Georgia.

  • Presentations on history, wildlife, glaciology & geology by experts onboard help immerse yourself in the experience.

Ocean Explorer

Ocean Explorer

Utilising the best ships and expedition crew is necessary to venture further in the Polar Regions. We have both of them. In terms of elegance, adventure, and cutting-edge technology, Ocean Explorer is the ideal complement to our fleet. For our sophisticated polar explorers, Ocean Explorer enhances the polar experience on all fronts. 

The Ulstein X-Bow, the industry-leading X-Bow design, ensures that your clients will glide through even the roughest waves with ease. In any polar sea state, the ship's distinctive forward-sloping X-Bow reduces vibration, noise, and impact for a comfortable ride. The ship is equipped with the newest sustainability technologies, including fuel-efficient Rolls-Royce engines and the revolutionary MAGS gasification system, which turns garbage into energy and reduces the environmental effect of waste transportation. Equipped with a fleet of 15 Zodiacs and four distinct sea-level embarkation locations, Ocean Explorer provides a wide range of off-ship experiences, such as Zodiac cruising and kayaking, enabling your guests to experience a close-up encounter with the Antarctic and Arctic wilderness.

Every interior feature on board, including the striking two-story forward lounge, the floor to ceiling glass retreat in the library, and the elegant fittings and furniture throughout the ship, has been meticulously chosen by designers to ensure that visitors have a wonderful experience. The roomy and opulent cabins guarantee your guests a peaceful stay free from noise pollution from nearby rooms, and nearly every cabin has an outdoor balcony. Two outdoor Jacuzzis and a dry sauna are available for your clients to relax in after a full day of activities off-ship.

 

Ice Class: Length: 342 ft (104.4 m)
Breadth: 60.3 ft (18.4 m)Max
Draft: Cruising
Speed:
Electricity: 220V (European) & USB-A ports in night lights Passenger
Capacity:138

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.

OPTIONAL ACTIVITIES

Optional Activities vary for each itinerary. Limited spaces available. Contact your Destination Specialist for pricing & availability.

Day Paddling

If you are looking for another way to nurture your inner adventurer, our day paddle excursion might be the perfect fit! Absorb the majestic scenery from a more intimate vantage point as you paddle through the pristine waters of Antarctica on a sit-on-top kayak.Our expertly guided, one-time, Paddle Program gives you the rare chance to see Antarctica from the same perspective as most of the wildlife – at the surface of the sea.

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Kayaking

Experience the unforgettable thrill and serenity of kayaking in Antarctica as part of a small, expertly guided paddling group.

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Pricing per person

Owners Suite

Features:-

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.

25 % off

£ 40,100 £ 30,075

Available

Enquire Now
  • Double (2 berths)
  • Single (1 berth)

Studio Single

Features:-

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.

25 % off

£ 32,400 £ 24,300

Unavailable

Enquire Now
  • Single (1 berth)

Deluxe Veranda Forward

Features:-

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.

25 % off

£ 24,800 £ 18,600

Unavailable

Enquire Now
  • Double (2 berths)
  • Single (1 berth)
  • Share, Male (1 berth)
  • Share, Female (1 berth)

Studio Veranda Single

Features:-

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.

25 % off

£ 34,900 £ 26,175

Unavailable

Enquire Now
  • Single (1 berth)

Penthouse Suite

Features:-

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.

25 % off

£ 37,700 £ 28,275

Available

Enquire Now
  • Double (2 berths)
  • Single (1 berth)

Junior Suite

Features:-

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.

25 % off

£ 32,400 £ 24,300

Available

Enquire Now
  • Double (2 berths)
  • Single (1 berth)

Veranda Suite

Features:-

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.

25 % off

£ 27,600 £ 20,700

Available

Enquire Now
  • Single (1 berth)
  • Double (2 berths)
  • Share, Male (1 berth)
  • Share, Female (1 berth)

Veranda Stateroom

Features:-

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.

25 % off

£ 26,000 £ 19,500

Unavailable

Enquire Now
  • Single (1 berth)
  • Double (2 berths)
  • Share, Male (1 berth)
  • Share, Female (1 berth)

Owners Suite

Features:-

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.

19 % off

£ 38,795 £ 31,327

Available

Enquire Now
  • Double (2 berths)
  • Single (1 berth)

Studio Single

Features:-

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.

19 % off

£ 31,195 £ 25,190

Available

Enquire Now
  • Single (1 berth)

Deluxe Veranda Forward

Features:-

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.

19 % off

£ 23,795 £ 19,215

Unavailable

Enquire Now
  • Double (2 berths)
  • Single (1 berth)
  • Share, Male (1 berth)
  • Share, Female (1 berth)

Studio Veranda Single

Features:-

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.

19 % off

£ 33,795 £ 27,290

Unavailable

Enquire Now
  • Single (1 berth)

Penthouse Suite

Features:-

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.

19 % off

£ 36,295 £ 29,308

Available

Enquire Now
  • Single (1 berth)
  • Double (2 berths)

Junior Suite

Features:-

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.

19 % off

£ 31,195 £ 25,190

Available

Enquire Now
  • Single (1 berth)
  • Double (2 berths)

Veranda Suite

Features:-

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.

19 % off

£ 26,495 £ 21,395

Available

Enquire Now
  • Single (1 berth)
  • Double (2 berths)
  • Share, Male (1 berth)
  • Share, Female (1 berth)

Veranda Stateroom

Features:-

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.

19 % off

£ 24,995 £ 20,184

Available

Enquire Now
  • Double (2 berths)
  • Single (1 berth)
  • Share, Male (1 berth)
  • Share, Female (1 berth)

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Important Information

  • ** Current Discounts, promotions and pricing are available until 31 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, twin share* (unless otherwise stated for single, triple cabins)

    Prices are correct at time of publishing but are subject to change at any time. 


    *Itinerary is subject to change depending on weather and ice conditions.

  • INCLUSIONS


    Shipboard accommodation 
    All meals & snacks 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/excursions  
    Guiding and lectures by experienced expedition leader 
    A photographic journey documenting the expedition 
    Waterproof expedition boots on loan for shore landings
    Expedition parka to keep 
    Comprehensive predeparture materials, including a map and an informative Antarctica Reader
    All miscellaneous service taxes and port charges 
    All luggage handling aboard the ship 
    All gratuities 
    Group transfer in Ushuaia from the airport to the pre-expedition hotel on Day 1
    One night's pre-expedition hotel accommodation in Ushuaia, with breakfast 
    Group transfer from the hotel to the ship on embarkation day 
    Group transfer upon disembarkation in Ushuaia from the ship to the local airport
    Free WiFi


    EXCLUSIONS

     
    Airfares to/from embarkation and disembarkation city/cities 
    Passport and visa expenses
    Government arrival and departure taxes not mentioned above 
    Meals ashore unless otherwise specified 
    Baggage, cancellation, interruption and medical travel insurance 
    Excess baggage fees on international flights
    Laundry and personal expenses incurred onboard 
    Phone and internet charges
    Additional overnight accommodation 
    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 & Availability.

FROM PRICE & PROMOTIONAL DETAILS

  • See 'Pricing & Dates' tab for detailed departures, pricing and availability


Please Contact Us for the latest availability, pricing and details of your preferred voyage. Chimu Adventures are Antarctica Experts and we will endeavour to find you the perfect Antarctica expedition cruise to ensure you have an unforgettable adventure!

See detailed promotional T&Cs below

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.