Explorers & Kings: Falklands, South Georgia & Antarctica | Ocean Explorer
20 Days
Save Up To 33%
WAS From AUD 49,995 Now From AUD 33,746
STYLE: Small Ship Expedition Cruise
Trip Code: ACQEAEK
DIFFICULTY RATING: 2 (light adventure)
Start: Ushuaia, Argentina
Finish: Ushuaia, Argentina
SHIP: Ocean Explorer
Destination
Antarctic Peninsula, Falkland Islands, South Georgia
Meals
Breakfast at hotel. All meals & snacks on board. Beer, standard wines & spirits, & cocktails during pre-dinner bar service, dinner & evenings
Transport
Group transfers throughout
Accommodation
CabinHotel & Cabin on board ship
DEPARTURE DATES
Enquire Now
Included 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
Visit South Georgia
FALKLAND ISLANDS
Get an insight into the area’s fascinating history and reveal some of the haunting relics and memorials of war. The colourful seaside town and capital, Port Stanley, boasts many reminders of its British heritage including a selection of traditional English-style pubs, old red phone boxes and numerous Land Rovers.
Whale watching
Zodiac Cruising
Cruise by Zodiacs amongst the beautifully sculpted icebergs and take excursions from the ship to explore local bays, channels and landing sites
OVERVIEW
This extended expedition encompasses the wildlife paradise of South Georgia, the remote Falkland Islands (Islas Malvinas), as well as the extraordinary beauty of the Antarctic Peninsula. You’ll experience a great diversity of environments and landscapes, which will provide unprecedented wildlife viewing opportunities. Join us for the quintessential Antarctic experience for polar travellers!
*Current Discounts, promotions and pricing are available until 30 Apr 2024, however discounts may be withdrawn or changed at any time and are subject to availability on selected cabins and departure dates.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.
ITINERARY
Your gateway for this expedition is Ushuaia, Argentina. Nestled within the Tierra del Fuego archipelago, Ushuaia has a small-town feel yet boasts many shops, museums, cafés and restaurants that you can enjoy before your voyage. If you’re feeling adventurous, the nearby national park and Martial Glacier offer plenty of outdoor activities, such as hiking.
As you embark, the anticipation grows. Trade your land legs for sea legs, meet and greet your fellow travelers and get acquainted with your ship. Since every Antarctic adventure presents new opportunities and experiences, embarkation day is just as exciting for your Expedition Team as it is for you. On board to ensure your comfort and safety, your team will also help make your wildlife dreams come true.
Your days at sea are filled with presentations and lectures led by your Expedition Team, who will prepare you for the wildlife that will greet you upon your arrival. In between presentations, spend time chatting with your shipmates over a drink at the bar, or enjoy the fresh air and views on the outer decks.
Upon your arrival in the Falklands (Malvinas), your camera will get its first real workout capturing the abundant wildlife and rugged feel of this sub-Antarctic region. The archipelago contains two main islands, East Falkland and West Falkland, which you will explore during daily Zodiac excursions and landings.
Stanley, also known as Port Stanley, is often a favored landing site, as the town offers a unique British outpost feel, complete with eclectic charm. You’ll be free to explore, grab a pint at the local pub or visit numerous churches and museums.
In terms of wildlife, the archipelago is home to Magellanic, gentoo and southern rockhopper penguins. If you’re lucky, you may even spot king penguins here as well! You can expect to see black-browed albatross, plus two endemic bird species—the flightless Falkland steamer duck and possibly the elusive Cobb’s wren.
Your team of lecturers and specialists will be sure to educate you on the local flora and fauna, making the most out of your time in the Falklands.
Sailing southeast to South Georgia, you’ll officially enter Antarctic waters once you cross the Antarctic Convergence, an invisible biological boundary encircling the continent. This meeting of oceans, where the cold Antarctic waters mix and mingle with the warmer waters of the Indian, Pacific and Atlantic Oceans, helps create the abundance of krill that attracts whales and seals to this part of the world. Your Expedition Team will notify you when you cross this invisible yet important line, and also look out for the seabirds and marine life that frequent the area.
This remote, mountainous island was a popular stop for many historic Antarctic expeditions and was once a haven for hunting whales and seals. Today, island wildlife populations are rebounding, but you’ll still see remnants of old whaling stations and other abandoned outposts.
One significant and historic site is the grave of the great explorer Sir Ernest Shackleton. You can visit his grave at the settlement of Grytviken, which is also home to an old whaling station, plus a museum, gift shop, church and small research station.
Although South Georgia’s history is an important attraction to the island, its incredible densities of wildlife make it truly memorable. Each landing you make on South Georgia, often referred to as the Galapagos of the Poles, will open your eyes to the wondrous lives of new, enthralling creatures.
One day you may see rookeries with hundreds of thousands of pairs of king penguins waddling on a beach, and the next, you may visit another beach blanketed with thousands of fur or elephant seals. The grasses, mountains and beaches of South Georgia all play an important role in the breeding and survival of different species on the island. This fragile and interwoven relationship is something your Expedition Team will explain to you during your time here.
Say goodbye to the king penguins, as your next destination is Antarctica! Your days at sea are filled with presentations, lectures and workshops led by your Expedition Team, who will prepare you for the wildlife that will greet you upon your arrival.
If conditions allow, we may attempt landfall on the South Orkney Islands, our first official stop in Antarctica.
The most common reaction upon reaching the White Continent is a sense of reverence and awe. The experience is beyond words, since few places are as untouched and enduring as Antarctica.
You will discover that Antarctica is a land of extremes. At one moment you’ll be overcome with a feeling of complete isolation and silence, and at the next moment you’ll be inspired by nature as a calving glacier crashes into brilliant blue sea or a penguin waddles by to inspect your footwear.
Your Expedition Team will take care of you at each excursion, whether you are Zodiac cruising, visiting a historical site or consorting with penguin colonies. Chinstrap, Adélie and gentoo penguins are found here, along with Weddell, fur, crabeater and leopard seals. During Zodiac cruises, keep an eye out for Antarctic whales such as minkes, which may give you a chance for an intimate experience with these majestic animals. Each day and each excursion will present a new collection of creatures to entertain 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 partaking in an optional paddling excursion (at an extra cost) or cast reason aside and jump into Antarctic waters for the polar plunge!
After more than two weeks of endless wildlife encounters, your journey home begins. Crossing the Drake is your unofficial rite of passage, completing your Antarctic adventure.
Enjoy your final moments celebrating with your fellow shipmates. The busy, populated world awaits your return, so savor the silence of the sea as long as you can.
After breakfast aboard the ship, it is time to part ways and say goodbye to your Expedition Team. Airport transfers will be provided for those departing on the first homeward flights. Other guests will be transferred to town.
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: Max
Draft: Cruising
Speed:
Electricity: 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.
Kayaking
Experience the unforgettable thrill and serenity of kayaking in Antarctica as part of a small, expertly guided paddling group.
Learn More
Stand-up Paddle Boarding
Stand-up Paddle boarding, commonly known as SUP originated in Hawaii and is now available as an optional activity in Antarctica. What a way to explore!
Learn MorePricing per person
 | Royal Veranda StateroomFeatures:- This spacious, classic stateroom allows you to stretch freely. Centrally located on Decks 4 and 6. | 20 % off AUD 58,600 AUD 46,880Available Enquire Now
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 | Owners SuiteFeatures:- 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. | 20 % off AUD 70,900 AUD 56,720Available Enquire Now
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 | Studio SingleFeatures:- Designed for one. These cabins are located on Deck 3 and approximately 177 sq. ft. (16.5 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.. | 20 % off AUD 50,100 AUD 40,080Unavailable Enquire Now
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 | Studio DoubleFeatures:- Enjoy the calm ambience of this stateroom which features a porthole window and every amenity essential for your polar voyage. | 20 % off AUD 39,300 AUD 31,440Unavailable Enquire Now
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 | Studio Veranda StateroomFeatures:- Located on Deck 6 and approximately 173 sq. f. (16.1 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. | 20 % off AUD 41,600 AUD 33,280Unavailable Enquire Now
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 | Deluxe Veranda Forward StateroomFeatures:- Enjoy privacy and elegance at the front of the ship where guests are treated to sweeping views from their private veranda. | 20 % off AUD 43,900 AUD 35,120Unavailable Enquire Now
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 | Deluxe Veranda Middle StateroomFeatures:- These classic staterooms ensure guests have easy access to all amenities the ship has to offer. | 20 % off AUD 46,200 AUD 36,960Unavailable Enquire Now
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 | Deluxe Veranda StateroomFeatures:- Revel in superior comfort of this stateroom on Deck 4 while taking in the panoramic ocean views from your private veranda. | 20 % off AUD 47,800 AUD 38,240Available Enquire Now
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 | Grand Veranda StateroomFeatures:- Near the center of the ship on Deck 6, this stateroom offers easy access to the lounge, dining room and a private veranda. | 20 % off AUD 50,100 AUD 40,080Unavailable Enquire Now
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 | Studio Veranda SingleFeatures:- 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. | 20 % off AUD 61,600 AUD 49,280Available Enquire Now
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 | Explorer SuiteFeatures:- 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. | 20 % off AUD 68,600 AUD 54,880Unavailable Enquire Now
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 | Junior SuiteFeatures:- The decor and layout of this stately suite will amaze. The private veranda, convenient Deck 6 location, plus proximity to the lounge and downstairs dining room are equally impressive. | 20 % off AUD 66,300 AUD 53,040Available Enquire Now
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| Royal Veranda StateroomFeatures:- This spacious, classic stateroom allows you to stretch freely. Centrally located on Decks 4 and 6. | 15 % off AUD 64,700 AUD 54,995Available Enquire Now
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| Owners SuiteFeatures:- 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. | 15 % off AUD 77,800 AUD 66,130Available Enquire Now
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| Studio SingleFeatures:- Designed for one. These cabins are located on Deck 3 and approximately 177 sq. ft. (16.5 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.. | 15 % off AUD 55,500 AUD 47,175Unavailable Enquire Now
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| Studio DoubleFeatures:- Enjoy the calm ambience of this stateroom which features a porthole window and every amenity essential for your polar voyage. | 15 % off AUD 43,200 AUD 36,720Unavailable Enquire Now
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| Studio Veranda StateroomFeatures:- Located on Deck 6 and approximately 173 sq. f. (16.1 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. | 15 % off AUD 45,500 AUD 38,675Unavailable Enquire Now
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| Deluxe Veranda Forward StateroomFeatures:- Enjoy privacy and elegance at the front of the ship where guests are treated to sweeping views from their private veranda. | 15 % off AUD 48,600 AUD 41,310Unavailable Enquire Now
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| Deluxe Veranda Middle StateroomFeatures:- These classic staterooms ensure guests have easy access to all amenities the ship has to offer. | 15 % off AUD 50,900 AUD 43,265Unavailable Enquire Now
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| Deluxe Veranda StateroomFeatures:- Revel in superior comfort of this stateroom on Deck 4 while taking in the panoramic ocean views from your private veranda. | 15 % off AUD 52,400 AUD 44,540Unavailable Enquire Now
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| Grand Veranda StateroomFeatures:- Near the center of the ship on Deck 6, this stateroom offers easy access to the lounge, dining room and a private veranda. | 15 % off AUD 55,500 AUD 47,175Available Enquire Now
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| Studio Veranda SingleFeatures:- 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. | 15 % off AUD 67,800 AUD 57,630Unavailable Enquire Now
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| Explorer SuiteFeatures:- 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. | 15 % off AUD 75,500 AUD 64,175Available Enquire Now
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| Junior SuiteFeatures:- The decor and layout of this stately suite will amaze. The private veranda, convenient Deck 6 location, plus proximity to the lounge and downstairs dining room are equally impressive. | 15 % off AUD 73,200 AUD 62,220Available Enquire Now
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| Studio SingleFeatures:- Designed for one. These cabins are located on Deck 3 and approximately 177 sq. ft. (16.5 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.. | 33 % off AUD 57,295 AUD 38,674Unavailable Enquire Now
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| Studio DoubleFeatures:- Enjoy the calm ambience of this stateroom which features a porthole window and every amenity essential for your polar voyage. | 33 % off AUD 44,795 AUD 30,236Unavailable Enquire Now
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| Deluxe Veranda Forward StateroomFeatures:- Enjoy privacy and elegance at the front of the ship where guests are treated to sweeping views from their private veranda. | 33 % off AUD 49,995 AUD 33,746Available Enquire Now
|
| Deluxe Veranda Middle StateroomFeatures:- These classic staterooms ensure guests have easy access to all amenities the ship has to offer. | 33 % off AUD 52,595 AUD 35,501Available Enquire Now
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| Deluxe Veranda StateroomFeatures:- Revel in superior comfort of this stateroom on Deck 4 while taking in the panoramic ocean views from your private veranda. | 33 % off AUD 54,195 AUD 36,581Available Enquire Now
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| Studio Veranda StateroomFeatures:- Located on Deck 6 and approximately 173 sq. f. (16.1 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. | 33 % off AUD 47,295 AUD 31,924Unavailable Enquire Now
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| Grand Veranda StateroomFeatures:- Near the center of the ship on Deck 6, this stateroom offers easy access to the lounge, dining room and a private veranda. | 33 % off AUD 57,295 AUD 38,674Available Enquire Now
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| Royal Veranda StateroomFeatures:- This spacious, classic stateroom allows you to stretch freely. Centrally located on Decks 4 and 6. | 33 % off AUD 58,895 AUD 39,754Available Enquire Now
|
| Studio Veranda SingleFeatures:- 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. | 33 % off AUD 60,495 AUD 40,834Unavailable Enquire Now
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| Explorer SuiteFeatures:- 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. | 33 % off AUD 68,295 AUD 46,099Available Enquire Now
|
| Owners SuiteFeatures:- 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. | 33 % off AUD 73,495 AUD 49,609Available Enquire Now
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| Junior SuiteFeatures:- The decor and layout of this stately suite will amaze. The private veranda, convenient Deck 6 location, plus proximity to the lounge and downstairs dining room are equally impressive. | 33 % off AUD 65,695 AUD 44,344Available Enquire Now
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Important Information
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 shore landings per the daily program, weather permitting
Presentations by expedition team & special guests.
Downloadable photographic journal documenting the expedition
Expedition boots on loan for shore landings
An expedition parka to keep
Hairdryer and bathrobe available in every cabin
All miscellaneous service taxes and port charges throughout the program
Luggage handling aboard the ship
Emergency Evacuation Insurance for all passengers to a maximum benefit of US$500,000 per person
Group transfer in Ushuaia from the airport to the pre-expedition hotel on Day 1 of the itinerary
One night pre-expedition hotel accommodation in Ushuaia with breakfast
Group transfer from hotel to ship on embarkation day
Group transfer from ship to airport or luggage storage facility post-expedition
Free WiFi
EXCLUSIONS
Any airfare unless otherwise specified in the itinerary
Passport and visa expenses
Government arrival and departure taxes
Any meals ashore unless otherwise specified
Travel insurance
Excess baggage charges
Laundry, bar, beverage and other personal charges unless specified
Mandatory waterproof pants for Zodiac cruising, or any other gear not mentioned
Telecommunications charges
Voluntary staff and crew gratuities
Optional Adventure Activities
- 2 (light adventure)
Available upon request, a supplement surcharge applies and is subject to availability. Please contact us for more information.
Itinerary is subject to change depending on weather and ice conditions. Contact us for more details
Departure date, fuel surcharges, cabin category, currency fluctuations, seasonality and availability.