Embark on the Adventure of a Lifetime with Our Explorer-Led Trip to Antarctica
Are you ready to experience the awe-inspiring beauty of Antarctica? Join us for an exclusive expedition led by seasoned explorers who will guide you through this mesmerizing land of ice and snow.
Read our article on exploring Antarctica to learn more.
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All are invited to explore the final frontier: Antarctica!
Ages 12+ for Youth + Adults (no outdoor skills required)
Activities include (all optional): Camping, Kayaking, Snowshoeing, Hiking, Citizen Science, Photography Tours, Wildife Viewing, Zodiak tours, Mountain Goat Movement Gala + Party, and more!
We have partnered with Polar Latitudes, a founder-owned and run company that, like Mountain Goat Movement, which prides itself in creating a boutique experience that’s about bringing passionate people together with a focus on adventure and eco-friendly exploration. Journey with life lovers of all ages and experiences, and head into this wild and untamed place that will surely captivate your heart.
A WORLD-CLASS SMALL SHIP EXPERIENCE
Our vessel, Seaventure, features a 1-A Super ice class rating — the highest ice class awarded to passenger vessels. The ship offers all outside-facing staterooms (some with balconies) and beautifully appointed dining areas, as well as al fresco dining on the Lido deck when weather permits.
Seaventure also offers a heated saltwater pool on the top deck, a sauna and fitness center, and a dedicated Citizen Science lab. ___________________________________________________________
Join a team of world class marine biologists, environmental scientists, ornithologists, and modern day explorers are all part of our expedition team - highly experienced, synced to your needs and interests, and with safety always top of mind.
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Dec 8 - 20, 2024
Itinerary Overview
Day 1 (Dec 8, 2024): Arrival
Day 2 (Dec 9): Ushuaia, Argentina
Day 3 (Dec 10): Embarkation
Day 4-5 (Dec 11 - 12): Drake Passage
Day 6 (Dec 13): South Shetland Islands
Day 7-10 (Dec 14, 15, 16, 17)): Antarctica
Day 11-12 (Dec 18, 19): Drake Passage
Day 13 (Dec 20, 2024): Disembarkation
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DETAILED ITINERARY:
Day 1, Ushuaia, Argentina:
No need to stress about missed connections or flight delays as you arrive with plenty of time to unwind and enjoy all that the luxurious Arakur Resort & Spa has to offer, or head out and discover the southernmost cityin the world, Ushuaia.
Day 2, Ushuaia:
Explore the sights of Ushuaia such as the museums and Argentinean leather markets or relax in style and comfort at the hotel. Attend the optional evening briefing for the opportunity to ask questions and meet someof your fellow explorers.
**Note: On days in Usuaia, participants can enjoy beautiful local hikes and scenery, and add-ons are available for a range of activities.
Day 3, Embarkation:
After a final morning exploring Ushuaia or unwinding at the resort, our mid-afternoon transfer will take you to the beautiful MS Seaventure. Our Expedition Team and ship staff will greet you on board, followed by a safety and orientation briefing and Captain’s welcome dinner. You’re on your way to Antarctica!
Day 4-5, Drake Passage:
Join our Polar Experts in the lounge to immerse yourself in all things Antarctic, from its fascinating wildlife to its adventurous history; choose to participate in our renowned Citizen Science program; or sit back and take in this fabled journey while catching your first glimpses of wildlife. Grab your binoculars to identify the many seabirds that follow the ship. As we cross the Antarctic Convergence into Antarctic waters, you’ll start to notice the cooler temperatures, your cue to get ready for that first iceberg sighting, an unforgettable moment on every journey.
Day 6, South Shetland Islands:
The volcanic South Shetland Islands offer both abundance and beauty. So, time to launch our Zodiacs and spend as much time as possible taking it all in. Be prepared to have your mind blown, courtesy of Mother Nature at her absolute unspoiled finest.
Day 7-10, Antarctica:
It’s time to slow our ship down, the better to explore the dreamlike world all around us and let the power of this amazing place sink in. This is your opportunity to get more intimately acquainted with Antarctica by Zodiac, kayak, snowshoe, or on a magical night of camping, as you look up at the stars or listen to the ethereal call of a nearby whale. For those engaged in our Citizen Science program, the work of understanding this fragile environment continues. Be sure to keep your camera handy, as penguins, seals and whale sightings are all part of this incredible experience. And a passing iceberg, its magical blue light seeming to glow from within, is something you’ll want to share with friends back home.
Day 11-12, Drake Passage:
Time to leave this magical place inspired, exhausted, and most likely changed forever. We make our way north, once again crossing the legendary Drake Passage. We’ll have one last hurrah as we celebrate the conclusion of our expedition with a special slideshow and photography awards ceremony, then a final meal together.
Day 13, Ushuaia disembarkation:
With huge smiles on weary, content faces, and perhaps some new friends for life, we disembark in the morning, letting you catch a flight to Buenos Aires or stay in Ushuaia for more sights and adventure.
Itinerary subject to change based on availability and unforeseen conditions, but that's part of the adventure!
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The cost of the trip ranges from $7,645 to $19,395 depending on the room that you choose, and your booking date. All prices below include a discount of 15%, which concludes on December 31, 2023 — one year before our 2024 trip. Book Now!
Note: room packages and deck plan LINKS below:
Find a deck plan and specs for Seaventure here.
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Putting down a $2,750 deposit will reserve your spot! You’ll be invoiced and must pay in full at least 120 days before the adventure starts. All deposits are non-refundable. Please also note Polar Latitudes’ Payment Terms.
Price Inclusions Below:
PRIOR TO DEPARTURE:
Informative Zoom Calls with the team
Two pre-voyage hotel nights in Ushuaia, Argentina at Arakur Resort and Spa. Added options for activities in Patagonia during these days.
Transfer from airport in embarkation city to group hotel if arriving on Day 1 of itinerary, and providing we have your confirmed air itinerary at least 15 days prior to departure
Transfer from group hotel to ship for embarkation
ON BOARD SEAVENTURE:
Shipboard accommodations
All meals on board
Mountain Goat Movement Gala + Celebration
Coffee/Tea/Cocoa 24 hours a day
All scheduled landings and excursions
All adventure options including, but not limited to, kayaking, camping, and snowshoeing
Our Citizen Science program: participation in a variety of scientific activities that support important research projects
Expedition jacket (yours to keep)
A pair of loaner boots for use during the voyage
WiFi from the public computers
200 MB WiFi card for use on your personal devices
Daily international news service
All port fees
All landing fees
Digital Voyage Log
POST DEPARTURE:
Group transfer from ship
Please note we cannot drop at Airbnb / private homes which are often inaccessible for our transfer vehicles.
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VOYAGES DO NOT INCLUDE:
Any airfare or travel expenses associated with arrival in Ushuaia other than those listed above
Transfer from airport to group hotel, unless arriving on Day 1 of the itinerary
Pre- or post-voyage expenses in Ushuaia
Travel insurance; medical insurance; evacuation coverage. This can be found here.
Laundry and personal expenses incurred on board
Onboard communication charges such as outgoing phone calls, WiFi from personal devices in excess of the 200 MB provided
Staff gratuities
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Polar Latitudes and Mountain Goat Movement have collaborated to provide an educational experience while onboard. Play a meaningful role in understanding one of the most remote, interesting places on Earth! These programs are open to students and adults. Check out the links below:
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A detailed packing list will be sent to registered participants.
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Please find an extensive list of common questions and answers. Bold headers signify the following topics:
1) The Voyage
2) Medical
3) The Team
4) What to Bring __________________________________________________________
1) QUESTIONS ABOUT THE VOYAGE
HOW DO I GET TO USHUAIA?
You will need to book your flights directly to your final destination airport of Ushuaia (USH) or Puerto Madryn (PMY)Most flights will connect via Buenos Aires, Argentina, or via Santiago, Chile. Please note that Buenos Aires has two airports – Ministro Pistarini International Airport (EZE), also known as Ezeiza, is mainly used for international flights. Jorge Newberry (AEP) is mainly used for domestic flights. Depending on your flight arrangements, it may be necessary for you to change airports. BE AWARE that travel between the two airports can take 1-2 hours depending on traffic, and you will need to claim your luggage and clear customs before hopping in a cab, so be sure to leave yourself plenty of time!There are lots of “low-cost carriers” popping up in South America; however, we recommend staying away from them for the time being, as new airlines typically have growing pains and with limited planes, delays and cancellations can be problematic. Therefore, we’d encourage you to book with established national airlines. We also recommend that you consult with a travel agent if you need assistance with booking flights, as we are unfortunately not in a position to provide flight assistance.
WHAT TIME DO WE DISEMBARK IN USHUAIA?
Disembarkation is usually at 8am on the final day of your itinerary. We strongly recommend booking flights no earlier than 12pm to account for possible delays getting back to Port.
WHAT KIND OF CAMPING EQUIPMENT DO YOU PROVIDE?
We provide insulated sleeping bags, rated to -20 ° F (-29 ° C), sleeping bag liners, insulated sleeping pads, 4-season mountaineering tents, dry bags for pillows and clothes, and a limited number of mountaineering bivy sacks (for any brave souls who wish to sleep out!) We also bring one portable toilet for the group. For more information on our Camping program, please click here.
WHAT KIND OF KAYAKING EQUIPMENT DO YOU PROVIDE?
We carry a mix of single and tandem kayaks, and provide dry suits, paddles, personal flotation devices (PFDs), pogies (neoprene gloves), and booties. For more information on our kayaking program, please click here.
WILL WE SEE THOSE AMAZING GLACIERS I SAW IN THE BROCHURE/ON THE WEBSITE?
You will visit amazing, unbelievable places every day, but probably none of them look exactly like the pictures you’ve seen before. Antarctica is one of the most unpredictable places in the world, which is what makes it so special and keeps us excited to go back year after year. Glaciers calve, penguins move, ice melts, snow falls, wind blows, and all these factors change the landscape making every trip a once in a lifetime experience.
WHAT WILL THE WEATHER BE LIKE ON MY TRIP?
Weather in Antarctica can be very unpredictable, and we don’t get the same type of forecasts that we’re used to in most other parts of the world. We get information about general conditions and trends in the areas we visit, and we make our own forecasts in real time based on the data we have in the moment. Average temperatures in Antarctica during our sailing season is between -5 C (23 F) and 5 C (41 F). The best defense against bad weather is quality gear. Refer to the packing list for more information.
CAN I SEND POSTCARDS FROM THE SHIP/ANTARCTICA?
Some of the bases that we may visit on your voyage offer postal service, but we can’t guarantee we’ll get to one. Your Expedition Leader will let you know if you’re visiting a base that offers post, and how you can send mail. In some places you may need cash, usually US Dollars or Euros. You can always send postcards once we disembark in Ushuaia!
WILL I BE ABLE TO PURCHASE EXTRA BATTERIES OR FLASH CARDS ON BOARD?
While you may find the batteries or flash cards you need in stock in our Gift Shop, we strongly recommend that you bring extra supplies of everything, (including an extra charger) as availability of these items is very limited, and cannot be guaranteed.
WILL I BE ABLE TO USE MY CELLPHONE DURING THE VOYAGE?
It is highly unlikely that you will have cellular service once we leave Argentina. There is a telephone in your cabin, which has access to an outside line; however, there may be times when phone service is limited or unavailable.
WHAT TYPE OF ELECTRICAL OUTLETS ARE ON BOARD?
The Seaventure has dual 110/220 voltage, and both US (two flat pin) and European (two round pin) style sockets in each cabin. The Island Sky is 110V, with US (two flat pin) sockets in each cabin and USB ports for device charging. Please do not bring any small appliances such as hairdryers, irons, coffee makers, curling tongs, or steam pots, as these items will damage the ship’s electrical system and are strictly forbidden on board. There is a small hairdryer provided in your cabin.
IS THE SHIP INTERNET ACCESSIBLE?
Yes! Our ship features wireless networks accessible from your personal computer or smartphone from virtually anywhere on board. There are also public computers available in the ship Library which may be used for email and Internet (but not for uploading photos.) 200 free MB of data is included in the cost of your voyage. Additional data packages can be purchased from the hotel manager on board; rates are USD $50 for 200MB or USD $90 for 1GB. Please note, due to weather and location, there may be times when Internet service is very slow or disrupted.
WHAT SHOULD I DO IF I HAVE A DIETARY NEED OR RESTRICTION?
We can accommodate most dietary requests such as low salt, gluten-free, and low cholesterol, and we include Vegetarian, Meat, and Fish options on all of our menus. Please enter any dietary limitations, from preferences to severe food allergies, when completing your medical information form. Please note that we are unable to offer Kosher meals.
IS THERE A GYM OR SPA ON BOARD?
Yes! Seaventure offers a fitness center with cardio equipment and free weights and a sauna.
DO YOU HAVE LAUNDRY FACILITIES ON BOARD?
Yes. Laundry service is available on board; however, the ship does not have dry cleaning facilities. There is no self-service laundry facility on board the ship and no irons for passenger use.
CAN I SMOKE ON BOARD THE SHIP?
There is absolutely no smoking permitted anywhere inside the ship (including the balcony areas,) on Zodiacs, or on landings. International law dictates the allowed designated area for smoking on commercial vessels; this location will be clearly identified during the Safety Briefing at the beginning of your voyage. Repeated non-compliance of our smoking policy will result in a $1000 penalty added to your shipboard account. The Expedition Leader and Captain also reserve the right to disallow participation in off-ship activities.
WILL MY SUITE HAVE PORTHOLES OR WINDOWS?
Only Suites designated as “Porthole Suites” have portholes, the rest have windows. We cannot guarantee the number of portholes or windows in your cabin. Windows and portholes do not open.
DO YOU OFFER TRIPLES OR QUADS?
Seaventure offers a limited number of Triple staterooms which can be configured with 1 queen bed and 1 single bed or 3 single beds. The exception to this are cabins 409 and 411 which have 1 fixed queen and 1 single, making them better suited for families.
HOW COLD WILL IT BE INSIDE THE SHIP?
Not cold at all! The entire ship is climate-controlled for your comfort, and all cabins feature individual temperature controls.
IS YOUR SHIP WHEELCHAIR ACCESSIBLE?
Unfortunately, no, our ship is not built to be wheelchair accessible. There is an elevator that services all floors, but due to weather and sea conditions, it is not operational at all times.
2) MEDICAL QUESTIONS
ARE THERE ANY COVID RESTRICTIONS ON BOARD?
As of right now, and barring any radical changes in global conditions, there are no planned Covid restrictions or policies on any Polar Latitudes voyages.
IS THERE A FEE FOR MEDICAL SERVICES?
There is generally no charge to guests for medical consultations, rendered care, or dispensed medical supplies. The only exceptions are rare cases in which very involved, “Intensive Care” levels of treatment are required.
WHAT IF I HAVE A PRE-EXISTING MEDICAL CONDITION?
All guests are required to complete a medical questionnaire that is reviewed by our Medical staff who will contact your agent if they foresee any difficulties with the safety of your voyage. Medical information is kept on board for reference in the event of a medical problem.
For passengers that do have significant medical issues/problems, we recommend that you visit your physician to obtain the doctor’s “fit to travel” stamp of approval. As your embarkation date approaches, don’t hesitate to re-check with your doctor if there has been a change in your medical issues. It’s always a good idea to bring duplicate supplies of all your medications and necessary medical supplies.
WHAT HAPPENS IN THE CASE OF A SERIOUS MEDICAL PROBLEM?
In the unfortunate event of a serious medical problem, our onboard doctor will take every possible step to stabilize the patient, who can then be evacuated to the nearest facility or airfield; either Ushuaia, Stanley, or King George Island, for more comprehensive diagnosis and treatment. Please be aware that there are limits to what our physicians can treat and evacuations in this remote area may be lengthy.
WHAT KIND OF MEDICAL FACILITIES ARE ON THE SHIP?
Each ship has a Medical Clinic, stocked with a wide range of common basic medications, including seasickness medication, and capable of supporting a wide range of medical issues. Please note, there are no lab or radiology capabilities on board.
IS THERE A DOCTOR ON BOARD THE SHIP?
Yes! Every voyage has a currently-practicing and English-speaking doctor experienced in Emergency medicine. Medical services are available 24 hours a day, and a doctor accompanies passengers on all shore landings.
3) QUESTIONS ABOUT THE POLAR LATITUDES TEAM
SHOULD I TIP THE SHIP STAFF?
Any tipping is at your discretion and entirely optional. Should you choose to tip, the standard amount for recognition of service is USD $14 per person per day. This can be added to your shipboard account and paid by credit card – you do not need to tip in cash. The gratuity is divided among the front of house hotel team, and cabin and dining room stewards. Other crew members are compensated for gratuities in salary. The Expedition Team does not solicit gratuities and we encourage passengers to be generous with the hotel team first. If you personally wish to leave a thank you for the team you may do so at reception and the amount is completely at your discretion.
WHAT KIND OF EXPERIENCE DOES YOUR EXPEDITION TEAM HAVE?
Polar Latitudes knows that your voyage is more than the ship or even the destination, it is the people who bring that experience to life. We are proud to say we attract some of the industry’s best talent, people who genuinely love what they do and work tirelessly to give our guests the best experience they can. Our staff comes from a wide variety of backgrounds. Some are professional adventure guides, some expert academics, others passionate educators. All apply their specific skills in a way to compliment each other and collectively deliver truly life-changing trips.Polar Latitudes is proud to say we have some of the highest staffing standards in the industry. We are one of the few operators that require all operational staff to be certified as crew under the International Maritime Organization’s STCW standards. Furthermore, we are the first polar operator to adopt the Polar Tourism Guides Association (PTGA) guide qualification framework, a world first in training and certifying polar guides in the skills and experience required for our unique industry. When combined with our company culture of learning and training, the STCW and PTGA certification frameworks give us the confidence that all our valued guests will be kept safe and benefit from the best team in the industry.
WHAT TO BRING
WILL I NEED CASH ON BOARD?
No. All shipboard charges will be charged to an account, so you do not need to pay cash as you go. At the end of your voyage, you may pay your tab with cash or credit card; we accept Visa, MasterCard, or American Express. All prices on board are shown in US Dollars. Always be sure to carry a small amount of cash, local and US or Euro, to cover taxis, and other incidentals, which may not be payable by credit card.
CAN I BRING MY UNMANNED AERIAL VEHICLE (DRONE)?
No. The recreational use of Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAV) or drone type aircraft in the Antarctic is currently prohibited by the International Association of Antarctic Tour Operators (IAATO). Because IAATO recognizes the value of UAVs for certain commercial and scientific applications, Polar Latitudes is currently permitted for the commercial use of UAVs by trained members of our staff. Individual permits are not possible, and personal drones are strictly prohibited.
SHOULD I BRING MY PERSONAL COMPUTER?
That one is entirely up to you. If you wish to have access to the internet, you will need a computer or mobile device such as a smartphone or tablet. Some guests also find it useful to have their computers on hand for photography storage and backup. If you do choose to bring a laptop, please be sure to take the necessary precautions to protect it from the elements.
DO I NEED TO BRING MY OWN SOAP AND SHAMPOO?
No. We provide Molton Brown of London soap and shampoo.
DO I NEED TREKKING POLES?
We do have a limited number of trekking poles on board, but if you are more comfortable with your own, please feel free to bring them.
DO I NEED MY OWN WATERPROOF JACKET AND BOOTS?
No! A waterproof expedition jacket, yours to keep, is included in the cost of your voyage, and will be given to you on board. A nautically inspired and well-fitting jacket, it’s ideal for cruising, sailing or onshore activities. This jacket, custom designed for Polar Latitudes, is a fully wind- and waterproof outer layer, with a protective collar to help keep body warmth from escaping on windy days. Please note, as this is not an insulated ski parka, we recommend wearing a heavy fleece and/or thermal layers under the jacket for additional warmth in Antarctica. We also loan you a pair of insulated rubber boots for you to use during the voyage. They are great for getting in and out of Zodiacs and are plenty warm with a good pair of thermal or wool socks.
WHAT SPECIFIC CLOTHING, SHOES, OR GEAR DO I NEED?
Our motto is – There’s no such thing as bad weather, only bad gear. It’s never a good idea to take shortcuts when it comes to clothing – being improperly dressed can impact your enjoyment of the voyage! Dress on board the ship is casual and informal at all times.The best clothing is a layered system with an outer layer that is waterproof. The air between the layers provides additional insulation.
Base Layer – Thermal underwear and a pair of thermal socks.
Mid Layer – Pants (fleece is ideal), a light cotton shirt, and a fleece.
Outer Layer – Waterproof pants and a waterproof jacket.
Waterproof pants are required to participate in landings.
Note: Lightweight disposable rain gear will not endure more than one landing, so please bring high-quality, expedition-weight waterproof pants.
Shoes – Sturdy walking shoes or sneakers with a good grip sole for the slippery deck, and the rubber boots we provide.
Book Your Expedition Today!
Don't miss your chance to be part of this extraordinary adventure. Contact us today to reserve your spot and get ready to experience the wonder of Antarctica in the company of expert explorers. Join us on an unforgettable journey to the end of the Earth!
