Antarctic Explorer via Cape Horn & Diego Ramirez | Ultramarine
Available until 03 April 2023 unless sold out prior
13 Days
Save Up To 33%
WAS From USD 18,995 Now From USD 13,816
STYLE: Expedition Cruise
Trip Code: ACQEARC
DIFFICULTY RATING: 2 (light adventure)
SHIP: Ultramarine
Destination
Antarctic Peninsula
Accommodation
Cabin on board ship
DEPARTURE DATES
Enquire Now
OVERVIEW
Experience the very best of the Antarctic peninsula on the newest of polar expedition vessels, the Ultramarine. From the historical landmark of Cape Horn to the fabled Drake Passage and finally to the incredible sights of the vast white landscapes of Antarctica. You will also have the unique opportunity to visit the Diego Ramirez Islands, renown for their large albatross nesting grounds.
*Offers are correct at the time of publishing and are available for sale on selected cabins and departure until 03 April 2023 or sold out.. Discounts are subject to change, availability will be confirmed at time of booking. Only combinable with Shackleton Club Past Passenger offers. 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. Excludes Triple and Single Cabins. The below prices may also include a 'Pay in full at time of booking' which is a 5-10% early payment bonus. Further conditions may apply, contact us for more information.
ITINERARY
You may arrive in Buenos Aires at any time during Day 1 of your itinerary. Upon arriving in this splendid city, known 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 have 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.
Depending on conditions, we aim to start our journey to the “edge of the earth” with a visit to historic Cape Horn (Cabo de Hornos). At the southernmost point of the Tierra del Fuego (“Land of Fire”) archipelago, the most isolated place in the Americas, this steep, rocky headland on Hornos Island marks the northern boundary of the famous Drake Passage, where the Atlantic and Pacific Oceans meet. From the 1700s to the early 1900s, prior to the opening of the Panama Canal, this cape was part of a major global trade route. If sea and weather conditions allow, you may go ashore for a hike out to the lighthouse, the tiny Stella Maris (“Star of the Sea”) Chapel, and the albatross-shaped monument honoring the many mariners who lost their lives attempting to “round the Horn.” Atop the 1,394-foot (425 meter)-high windswept promontory, pause for a moment to take in the panoramic view and to enjoy the peaceful solitude that can only be found at one of the most southern stretches of land in the world.
Your ship will then continue cruising farther south, to the Diego Ramírez Islands, the most southern point of South America and one of the least-explored places on the planet. This small archipelago was actually thought to be the southernmost land mass in the world when it was discovered in 1619 by the Spanish Garcia de Nodal expedition. Named after the expedition’s cosmographer, the archipelago held this distinction for 156 years, until Captain James Cook’s discovery of the South Sandwich Islands in 1775. Weather-permitting, we’ll Zodiac cruise around these tussock grass-covered islands to admire the abundant birdlife. A designated Important Bird Area, and part of the recently-designated Diego Ramirez Islands and Drake Passage Marine Park, the archipelago is home to millions of breeding seabirds, and an exceptional place for birdwatching.
PLEASE NOTE: If conditions look more promising toward the end of your expedition, this itinerary day may take place after your Antarctic Peninsula exploration.
The unpredictable and exciting Drake Passage is an adventure unto itself. While being well taken care of by our expert onboard staff and leaders, you’ll have plenty of time to gaze out at the ocean, take pictures of seabirds swooping around the ship, and get to know your Expedition Team and fellow travelers.
Once the Drake Passage is left in our wake and the South Shetland Islands come into view, your Antarctic adventure truly begins. You will begin to appreciate why this region has long captivated the attention of explorers and travelers alike. On every visit to Antarctica, we witness something new or unexpected, which means your expedition will be unlike any other—a unique, personal experience.
Each day, you will take Zodiac excursions from the ship to explore local bays, channels and landing sites. With wildlife always at the forefront of our minds, you will visit penguin rookeries, scout for humpback and minke whales, and search for a number of southern seal species, including the cunning leopard seal.
The majesty of the Antarctic Peninsula’s mountains will enchant as you hike snowy pathways to vantage points offering panoramic views of your surroundings. 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 the next you’ll be inspired by nature as a calving glacier crashes into a brilliant blue sea or a penguin waddles by to inspect your footwear.
The journey back across the Drake Passage provides a final opportunity to enjoy the invigorating Antarctic air. Spend time on the deck, watching for seabirds and scouting for whales, enjoy presentations by your Expedition Team and celebrate the experiences you’ve shared exploring the remarkable world of Antarctica.
You will arrive in Ushuaia in the morning and disembark after breakfast. The mandatory transfer package includes a little taste of Patagonia with a Tierra del Fuego National Park tour before transferring to the airport for the return group charter flight to Buenos Aires.
Ultramarine
The newest ship of this expedition fleet; Ultramarine; 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 . Experience the Antarctic in comfort as you sail aboard Ultramarine. 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, flatscreen TV’s and DVD players and spa - inspired bathrooms. Ultramarine is designed to go beyond the familiar in polar exploration, to discover new places, and immerse you in the best the region has to offer. Equipped with two twin-engine helicopters, Ultramarine offers the most robust portfolio of adventure activities in the industry, 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 and an innovative mix of sustainability features that exceed all industry standards.
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.
OPTIONAL ACTIVITIES
Optional Activities vary for each itinerary. Limited spaces available. Contact your Destination Specialist for pricing & availability.
Camping
Fall asleep amid the snow-capped mountains as you watch the colours of the Antarctic twilight bounce off the ocean and surrounding glaciers.
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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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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
 | Ultra SuiteFeatures:-
| 25 % off USD 46,590 USD 35,191Unavailable Enquire Now
|
 | Owner's SuiteFeatures:-
| 25 % off USD 41,690 USD 31,516Available Enquire Now
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 | Penthouse SuiteFeatures:-
| 25 % off USD 33,790 USD 25,591Unavailable Enquire Now
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 | Terrace SuiteFeatures:-
| 25 % off USD 31,490 USD 23,866Unavailable Enquire Now
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 | Deluxe Balcony SuiteFeatures:-
| 25 % off USD 30,490 USD 23,116Unavailable Enquire Now
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 | Balcony SuiteFeatures:-
| 25 % off USD 26,190 USD 19,891Available Enquire Now
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 | Explorer SuiteFeatures:-
| 25 % off USD 23,590 USD 17,941Available Enquire Now
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 | Solo PanoramaFeatures:-
| USD 25,090Available Enquire Now
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 | Explorer TripleFeatures:-
| USD 18,190Available Enquire Now
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| Ultra SuiteFeatures:-
| 37 % off USD 38,490 USD 24,616Unavailable Enquire Now
|
| Owner's SuiteFeatures:-
| 37 % off USD 34,990 USD 22,411Unavailable Enquire Now
|
| Penthouse SuiteFeatures:-
| 37 % off USD 28,490 USD 18,316Available Enquire Now
|
| Terrace SuiteFeatures:-
| 37 % off USD 26,490 USD 17,056Unavailable Enquire Now
|
| Deluxe Balcony SuiteFeatures:-
| 37 % off USD 25,490 USD 16,426Available Enquire Now
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| Balcony SuiteFeatures:-
| 33 % off USD 21,990 USD 15,166Available Enquire Now
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| Explorer SuiteFeatures:-
| 33 % off USD 19,990 USD 13,816Available Enquire Now
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| Solo PanoramaFeatures:-
| 10 % off USD 27,490 USD 24,840Available Enquire Now
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| Explorer TripleFeatures:-
| 10 % off USD 16,990 USD 15,390Unavailable Enquire Now
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Important Information
Cabin accommodation on board ship
All meals on board
All scheduled landings and excursions
Guiding and lectures by experienced expedition team
Expedition parka (yours to keep)
Loan of expedition boots for duration of voyage
One 10 to 15 minute helicopter flight-seeing excursion (weather permitting)
EXCLUSIONS
International airfare
Mandatory flight package - $1,400 AUD / $995 USD per person
Any activities not mentioned as included
Visa and reciprocity fees (if applicable)
Baggage, cancellation and medical travel insurance
- 2 (light adventure)
Available upon request, contact us for more details.
Please note this itinerary is subject to change depending on weather and ice conditions.
Departure date, seasonality and availability