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Antarctic Marine Mammals: World of Whales & Seals | World Voyager

- $250 USD/$325 AUD Adventure Option Credit 
- 1 Year Priority Pass Membership (Airport Lounge Access + 2 Free Visits)
- $100 USD Global Experiences Card

Combinable with advertised discounts & Pay-In-Full Savings
Valid until 31 May 25 
See detailed promotional T&Cs below

11 Days
Save Up To 15%

WAS From USD 15,090   Now From USD 13,089

STYLE: Small Ship Expedition Cruise

Trip Code: ACQEAMMV

DIFFICULTY RATING: 2 (light adventure)

Start: Buenos Aires, Argentina

Finish: Buenos Aires, Argentina

SHIP: World Voyager

DestinationDestination

Antarctica, Antarctic Peninsula

MealsMeals

Breakfast At Hotel; All Meals & Snacks On Board; Beer, Standard Wines, Spirits & Cocktails During Pre-Dinner Bar Service, Dinner & Evenings

TransportTransport

Group Transfers Throughout & Return Charter Flight Buenos Aires To Ushuaia

TransportAccommodation

Hotel & Cabin On Board Ship

DEPARTURE DATES



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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

Experience the thrill of exploring the Antarctic Peninsula on this 11-day adventure. Sail through the historic Beagle Channel and cross the legendary Drake Passage, where you'll witness the nutrient-rich waters teeming with marine life. As you reach the Antarctic Peninsula, enjoy Zodiac excursions, spotting whales, seals, and penguins in their natural habitats. Engage in citizen science projects, using hydrophones to listen to whale vocalizations and contributing to marine mammal research. The journey also includes visits to the South Shetland Islands, where you'll encounter massive elephant seals and explore historic sites. Throughout the voyage, you'll have opportunities to learn from leading marine mammal scientists and participate in conservation efforts, making this expedition both educational and unforgettable.

ITINERARY

Arrive Buenos Aires, Argentina

Upon arriving in this fascinating South American city, known for its vibrant Argentinian culture, European architecture and cosmopolitan vibe, you will independently transfer to your pre-expedition hotel night, included in the Charter Flight and Hotel Package.

Fly to Ushuaia & Embarkation

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 time on your own to explore this quaint port town before making your way to the designated meeting spot near the pier, where you will be transferred to the ship for embarkation.

After a late afternoon embarkation, we 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.

At Sea: Drake Passage Southbound

Crossing the 800-km Drake is considered a rite of passage for many travelers. Traversing this legendary waterway means you’ll experience the Antarctic Convergence, where the cold, northwardflowing Antarctic waters meet the warmer, southward-flowing water of the subAntarctic. The mixing of cold and warm waters creates a nutrient-rich feeding ground, especially for whales and other marine mammals. Guests are encouraged to keep binoculars close at hand—and to be prepared for Expedition Team members to announce any whale sightings.

The team of guest scientists will be introduced early in the voyage. Ari Friedlaender, who co-developed this itinerary, and members of his team from the Friedlaender Lab, are global authorities on the underwater behavior and ecology of marine mammals, particularly whales. Guests will also meet a research associate with the Happywhale platform, which enables citizens to upload their whale photos to help identify species and, possibly, individual whales. (See bios, page 13).

At Sea: Sailing towards Antarctica

The second day of your Drake Passage crossing is an ideal time to attend scheduled polar presentations that will enhance your Antarctic experience. It’s also an excellent opportunity to visit the Science Hub on Deck 4; an instrumental part of your voyage. Spend time on deck watching for whales, which increase in number as we approach the Peninsula—and remember to upload your whale photos to the Happywhale platform.

Antarctic Peninsula - Day 5 to 7

The timing of this voyage maximizes opportunities to observe various whale species along the Antarctic Peninsula. After the ice recedes in October and November, the food chain begins to reestablish itself. Whales, seals and other marine mammals are drawn to these rich feeding grounds—especially for the krill. By February and March, these creatures, which have been intensely feeding, are satiated and relaxed, making them more easier to spot. In addition to the Zodiac and paddling excursions, we plan to spend a lot of time on the outer decks and other vantage points on the ship to spot—and photograph—wildlife.

We’ll spend our days in key marine mammal habitats of the Gerlache Strait and remote inner glacial bays. Over the next three days, we aim to explore whale hotspots such as Charlotte Bay, Portal Point, Graham Passage, Errera Channel, Cuverville Island, Andvord Bay, Fournier Bay and Dallmann Bay. Past whale sightings in these areas have included minke, humpback, fin, orca and the elusive, deep-diving Arnoux's beaked whale.

Antarctic Marine Mammals: The World of Whales & Seals is our only itinerary during which we’ll deploy hydrophones— underwater microphones that detect and record sound below the surface. You will have opportunities—during Zodiac cruises and paddling programs—to accompany Friedlaender Lab scientists as they deploy hydrophones to monitor and study marine mammal behavior, such as the vocalizations of whales. Four scientists will accompany guests in Zodiacs, with one hydrophone shared between two groups. Speakers will enable participants to listen for and, hopefully, hear whale sounds beneath the ocean surface. Engaging with scientists who are actively collecting and collating data that can be shared in real time on the water, and, through digital visual aids, brings marine biology to life in a way that transcends the water line. This activity is also available to World Voyager guests who join the Stand-Up Paddle Boarding (SUP) program. In addition to the citizen science programming, this itinerary will also feature the wonders of Antarctica: penguins, seals, immense glaciers, snowcapped mountains, icebergs, shore landings, and the polar plunge.

South Shetlands

Rounding out our marine mammal experiences, we hope to witness southern elephant seals in the rugged and fabled South Shetland Islands. We’ll also keep our fingers crossed for sightings of fin whales. We'll explore this geological and historic archipelago while prioritizing shore landings, which offer further opportunities for wildlife sightings. Arriving in March allows us the rare opportunity to potentially explore key excursion sites such as Hannah Point, which is deemed a Restricted Area from early to mid-season. Massive populations of elephant seals and southern giant petrels make for awe-inspiring experiences. As with any expedition, shore landings along the coast are dependent on favorable weather.

At Sea: Drake Passage Northbound

Today is the start of the journey back across the Drake Passage. This is an excellent opportunity to spend more time engaging with the Friedlaender Lab scientists or attend one of the scheduled polar presentations.

At Sea: Last Sailing Day

Today is your last opportunity to visit Quark Expeditions' new Science Hub and contribute to citizen science that will support marine mammal conservation efforts. In the words of Sir David Attenborough: “No one will protect what they don’t care about. And no one will care about what they have never experienced.”

Disembark in Ushuaia & Fly to Buenos Aires

You will arrive in Ushuaia in the morning and disembark after breakfast. Guests will be transferred 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.

DOWNLOAD ITINERARY PDF

WHY CHOOSE THIS CRUISE?

  • Join renowned researchers in their efforts to collect vital data on the diverse marine mammals of Antarctica, particularly whales.

  • Join immersive workshops focused on the identification of marine mammals through hands-on activities.

  • Discover the fascinating aspects of Antarctic wildlife, historical events, geological formations, and glaciology with guidance from onboard experts.

  • Along with whale observations, experience encounters with penguins, seals, and a variety of birds.

World Voyager

World Voyager

Explore the wonders of Antarctica onboard the World Voyager, a premium expedition vessel that takes 168 guests. The ship has an onboard science program and will allow you to engage in scientific research. The ship has a range of spacious and well-appointed suites, all with balconies. The vessel is equipped with various dining options and facilities such as a spa and sauna to make the most of your time at sea. Your expert expedition crew will provide informative lectures and accompany you when you are off the ship exploring the 7th Continent. 

Ice Class: Length: 129 meters (423 feet)
Breadth: 18.9 meters (62 feet)Max
Draft: Cruising
Speed:
Electricity: Passenger
Capacity:
168

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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.

Included ACTIVITIES

These are included in your cruise fare. Activities vary by itinerary and destination and are subject to regulations, weather conditions and other factors.

Zodiac Cruises

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Expert Lectures

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Shore Excursions

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Polar Plunge

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OPTIONAL ADVENTURES ADD ONS

These can be booked in advance at an extra cost. Activities vary by itinerary and destination.

Kayaking

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

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Day Paddling

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Stand-up Paddle Boarding

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Pricing per person

Infinity Suite

Features:-

Located on Decks 5 and 6, and approximately 270 sq. ft. (25 sq. m) in size, these cabins have one double or two single beds, and a floor-to-ceiling glass Juliet balcony. A sitting area with sofa, refrigerator, TV, state of the art “infotainment” system, and private bathroom with shower is also featured in each cabin.

15 % off

USD 15,090 USD 13,089

Available

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  • Double Room
  • Single Room
  • Double Room Shared (Male)
  • Double Room Shared (Female)

Superior Suite

Features:-

Located on Decks 5 and 6, and approximately 270 sq. ft. (25 sq. m) in size, these cabins have one double or two single beds, and a 100 sq. ft. (9.5 sq. m) walk-out balcony with access from sitting room and bedroom. A separate sitting area with sofa, walk-in closet, refrigerator, TV, state of the art “infotainment” system, and private bathroom with shower is also featured in each cabin.

15 % off

USD 20,190 USD 17,450

Available

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  • Double Room
  • Single Room

Veranda Suite

Features:-

Located on Decks 5 and 6, and approximately 215 sq. ft. (20 sq. m) in size, these cabins have one double or two single beds, and a 55 sq. ft. (5 sq. m) walk-out balcony. A sitting area with sofa, refrigerator, TV, state of the art “infotainment” system, and private bathroom with shower is also featured in each cabin.

15 % off

USD 15,790 USD 13,688

Available

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  • Double Room
  • Single Room
  • Double Room Shared (Male)
  • Double Room Shared (Female)

Owner's Suite

Features:-

Located on Decks 5 and 6, and approximately 365 sq. ft. (34 sq. m) in size, these cabins have one double or two single beds, and a 100 sq. ft. (9.5 sq. m) walk-out balcony with access from sitting room and bedroom. A separate sitting area with sofa, refrigerator, TV, state of the art “infotainment” system, and private bathroom with shower, dual vanity, and bathtub is also featured in each cabin.

14 % off

USD 23,090 USD 19,930

Available

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  • Double Room
  • Single Room

Deluxe Suite

Features:-

Located on Deck 5, and approximately 345 sq. ft. (32 sq. m) in size, these cabins have one double or two single beds, and a 100 sq. ft. (9.5 sq. m) walk-out balcony with access from sitting room and bedroom. A separate sitting area with sofa, double closets, refrigerator, TV, state of the art “infotainment” system, and private bathroom with shower is also featured in each cabin.

15 % off

USD 21,590 USD 18,647

Available

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  • Double Room
  • Single Room

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Important Information

  • * Early Booking Bonus Offer

    Valid on new bookings until 31 May 25 and combinable with advertised discounts, pay in full discounts and past passenger discounts and only valid on selected and specified dates. Applies to all cabins on selected voyages. May be withdrawn or varied at any time at the discretion of the cruise operator. 
    Adventure Option Credit: Book adventure option such as heli-landing, camping, kayaking, paddling, stand-up paddle boarding. Credit is applied to the full RPP brochure price. $325 AUD, $250 USD or U£160 GBP, credit applies. No cash value, name changes not allowed. 
    One Year Priority Airport Lounge Pass Membership: Two free visits per passenger to over 1,700 airport lounges where guests can enjoy food, drinks, spa treatments, sleeping pods and more. Unique Priority Pass voucher code(s) will be emailed within 30 days of the voyage departure date. Airport lounge visits are based on availability at time of entry and must be completed within one year of activation. The cruise operator does not operate Priority Pass lounges and cannot be held responsible for any loss, damage or injury that occurs in a Priority Pass lounge for any reason.
    $100 USD Global Experiences Card: Can be used to book private transfers to airport or excursions prior to voyage. No cash value, name changes not allowed. The cruise operator does not operate Global Experiences Card and cannot be held responsible for any loss, damage or injury that occurs for any reason. 



    ** Current Discounts, promotions and pricing are available until 31 May 2025, 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)

    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*

    Please note that flights to/from King George Island are subject to weather and landing conditions 

  • 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 WiFi

    MANDATORY 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 Ushuaia

     

    EXCLUSIONS

    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.

FROM PRICE & PROMOTIONAL DETAILS

  • See 'Pricing & Dates' tab for detailed departures, pricing and availability
  • Early Bonus Offer valid until 31 May 2025


Please Contact Us for the latest availability, pricing and details of your preferred voyage. Chimu Adventures are Arctic 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.