Antarctica Classic in Depth - 13 Days

From £6,509£501 per daySave 30%

Trip Snapshot

Genders

  • Female50%
  • Male50%

Average age

53
10 Min100 Max

Start / End

  • Ushuaia
  • Ushuaia

Physical rating

2/5

Group size

1 - 134

Meals included

33

Highlights

  • Begin your extraordinary journey in Ushuaia, the 'End of the World,' with a warm welcome and an enchanting evening sail through the picturesque Beagle Channel, setting the perfect stage for your polar adventure.
  • Brave the legendary Drake Passage crossing, a truly transformative experience filled with enriching lectures from our expert expedition team, as you scan the horizon for majestic icebergs, migrating whales, and the graceful flight of albatross.
  • Immerse yourself deeply in the South Shetland Islands and the breathtaking Antarctic Peninsula with an extended six days of exploration, allowing for ample opportunities to truly connect with this pristine wilderness.
  • Witness an unparalleled spectacle of wildlife, with daily shore landings (weather permitting) bringing you face-to-face with bustling penguin rookeries, various species of seals lounging on ice floes, and magnificent whales feeding in the nutrient-rich Antarctic waters.
  • Enhance your expedition with diverse activities and optional excursions, including exhilarating Zodiac cruises, insightful onboard lectures, thrilling polar plunges, visits to historic sites or active research stations, and even optional kayaking or camping for the ultimate polar immersion.
  • Travel with confidence alongside a dedicated team of professional naturalists and lecturers, whose in-depth knowledge of Antarctic ornithology, marine biology, geology, and history will bring the wonders of this frozen continent vividly to life.
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What's inside the PDF

  • Day-by-day itinerary
    Every day mapped out, covering activities, travel times, meals and where you'll stay.
  • Packing & kit list
    Exactly what to bring, from clothing and essentials to luggage guidelines and what's available to hire locally.
  • What's included
    Accommodation, transport, guides and meals, so you can see exactly what your price covers.
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Summary

Like our "Antarctica Classic" tour, this 13-day expedition introduces you to the magic of the South Shetland Islands and the Antarctic Peninsula, but adds on two additional days to better explore its majesty. Part of the reward of arriving in Antarctica is the challenge of negotiating the Drake Passage — and the Expedition will bring you there safely. Encounter leopard seals lazing on ice floes and immense rookeries of penguins surrounded by towering glaciers. The G Expedition’s expert guides and lecturers offer knowledge and insight that really bring the nature and history of the region to life, creating the adventure of a lifetime.

Itinerary

  • Day 1

    Ushuaia

    Arrive in Ushuaia at any time. Arrival transfer included. Enjoy the sights and sounds of the world's most southerly city.

  • Day 2

    Ushuaia/Drake Passage

    Enjoy a free morning in Ushuaia. Do any last minute shopping, explore the town, or visit the surrounding countryside. Embarkation on the Expedition begins in the afternoon at the port in Ushuaia. Enjoy the evening sailing through the Beagle Channel. Opt to visit the magnificent Tierra del Fuego National Park today before boarding the ship.

  • Day 3

    Drake Passage/South Shetland Islands

    The adventure begins with an 1000km (600 mi) crossing of the passage named in honour of 16th-century English sea captain and privateer, Sir Francis Drake. The ship is at home in this part of the Southern Ocean. Take in daily lectures from the expedition team and keep an eye out for icebergs, whales, and albatross following in the Expedition's wake. The Expedition is at home in this part of the Southern Ocean, known for the unimpeded never ending fetch of the winds that encircle the Antarctic.

    As the Expedition crosses the passage there will be time to become acquainted with the ship and frequent the common areas that include the lounge, dining hall, library and lecture hall where we meet our guides, ship’s crew and expedition staff.

    Begin lectures and information sessions to learn the extraordinary human and natural history of the Antarctic region.

  • Day 4

    Drake Passage/South Shetland Islands

    The adventure begins with an 1000km (600 mi) crossing of the passage named in honour of 16th-century English sea captain and privateer, Sir Francis Drake. The ship is at home in this part of the Southern Ocean. Take in daily lectures from the expedition team and keep an eye out for icebergs, whales, and albatross following in the Expedition's wake. The Expedition is at home in this part of the Southern Ocean, known for the unimpeded never ending fetch of the winds that encircle the Antarctic.

    As the Expedition crosses the passage there will be time to become acquainted with the ship and frequent the common areas that include the lounge, dining hall, library and lecture hall where we meet our guides, ship’s crew and expedition staff.

    Begin lectures and information sessions to learn the extraordinary human and natural history of the Antarctic region.

  • Day 5

    South Shetland Islands/Antarctic Peninsula

    With a total of six days to explore the world's most southerly ecosystem, there's more time to encounter the unique wildlife and awe-inspiring scenery of the Antarctic. Attempt two shore landings per day (weather permitting) to encounter penguin rookeries, get a good look at the variety of seal species, and keep an eye out for the whales that feed in the peninsula's cold, fertile waters. Navigate southwards making stops in the South Shetland Islands then through the Bransfield Strait and to the Antarctic Peninsula.

    During the voyage, learn about some of the most important and dramatic expeditions to this remote corner of the world. Take an optional polar plunge, visit an abandoned whaling station or a working scientific research station, and gain a new perspective on this part of world.

    Our goal is to attempt two excursions per day while we navigate through the area but our itinerary and daily schedule will be based on the local weather and ice conditions that we encounter.

  • Day 6

    South Shetland Islands/Antarctic Peninsula

    With a total of six days to explore the world's most southerly ecosystem, there's more time to encounter the unique wildlife and awe-inspiring scenery of the Antarctic. Attempt two shore landings per day (weather permitting) to encounter penguin rookeries, get a good look at the variety of seal species, and keep an eye out for the whales that feed in the peninsula's cold, fertile waters. Navigate southwards making stops in the South Shetland Islands then through the Bransfield Strait and to the Antarctic Peninsula.

    During the voyage, learn about some of the most important and dramatic expeditions to this remote corner of the world. Take an optional polar plunge, visit an abandoned whaling station or a working scientific research station, and gain a new perspective on this part of world.

    Our goal is to attempt two excursions per day while we navigate through the area but our itinerary and daily schedule will be based on the local weather and ice conditions that we encounter.

  • Day 7

    South Shetland Islands/Antarctic Peninsula

    With a total of six days to explore the world's most southerly ecosystem, there's more time to encounter the unique wildlife and awe-inspiring scenery of the Antarctic. Attempt two shore landings per day (weather permitting) to encounter penguin rookeries, get a good look at the variety of seal species, and keep an eye out for the whales that feed in the peninsula's cold, fertile waters. Navigate southwards making stops in the South Shetland Islands then through the Bransfield Strait and to the Antarctic Peninsula.

    During the voyage, learn about some of the most important and dramatic expeditions to this remote corner of the world. Take an optional polar plunge, visit an abandoned whaling station or a working scientific research station, and gain a new perspective on this part of world.

    Our goal is to attempt two excursions per day while we navigate through the area but our itinerary and daily schedule will be based on the local weather and ice conditions that we encounter.

  • Day 8

    South Shetland Islands/Antarctic Peninsula

    With a total of six days to explore the world's most southerly ecosystem, there's more time to encounter the unique wildlife and awe-inspiring scenery of the Antarctic. Attempt two shore landings per day (weather permitting) to encounter penguin rookeries, get a good look at the variety of seal species, and keep an eye out for the whales that feed in the peninsula's cold, fertile waters. Navigate southwards making stops in the South Shetland Islands then through the Bransfield Strait and to the Antarctic Peninsula.

    During the voyage, learn about some of the most important and dramatic expeditions to this remote corner of the world. Take an optional polar plunge, visit an abandoned whaling station or a working scientific research station, and gain a new perspective on this part of world.

    Our goal is to attempt two excursions per day while we navigate through the area but our itinerary and daily schedule will be based on the local weather and ice conditions that we encounter.

  • Day 9

    South Shetland Islands/Antarctic Peninsula

    With a total of six days to explore the world's most southerly ecosystem, there's more time to encounter the unique wildlife and awe-inspiring scenery of the Antarctic. Attempt two shore landings per day (weather permitting) to encounter penguin rookeries, get a good look at the variety of seal species, and keep an eye out for the whales that feed in the peninsula's cold, fertile waters. Navigate southwards making stops in the South Shetland Islands then through the Bransfield Strait and to the Antarctic Peninsula.

    During the voyage, learn about some of the most important and dramatic expeditions to this remote corner of the world. Take an optional polar plunge, visit an abandoned whaling station or a working scientific research station, and gain a new perspective on this part of world.

    Our goal is to attempt two excursions per day while we navigate through the area but our itinerary and daily schedule will be based on the local weather and ice conditions that we encounter.

  • Day 10

    South Shetland Islands/Antarctic Peninsula

    With a total of six days to explore the world's most southerly ecosystem, there's more time to encounter the unique wildlife and awe-inspiring scenery of the Antarctic. Attempt two shore landings per day (weather permitting) to encounter penguin rookeries, get a good look at the variety of seal species, and keep an eye out for the whales that feed in the peninsula's cold, fertile waters. Navigate southwards making stops in the South Shetland Islands then through the Bransfield Strait and to the Antarctic Peninsula.

    During the voyage, learn about some of the most important and dramatic expeditions to this remote corner of the world. Take an optional polar plunge, visit an abandoned whaling station or a working scientific research station, and gain a new perspective on this part of world.

    Our goal is to attempt two excursions per day while we navigate through the area but our itinerary and daily schedule will be based on the local weather and ice conditions that we encounter.

  • Day 11

    Drake Passage/Ushuaia

    Begin the journey north to the home port of Ushuaia. Review the highlights of the Antarctic experience with the lecturers and staff. Keep eyes peeled on the observation deck for some last-minute whale sightings. Leave Antarctica and head north across the Drake Passage. In between bird watching and whale watching and enjoying some final lectures by the expedition staff, this is a chance to relax and review the adventures of the past week before returning to Ushuaia.

    Remember, the best way to experience the wildlife of the Drake Passage is to be on deck keeping a look out for Albatross, Prions and Whales!

  • Day 12

    Drake Passage/Ushuaia

    Begin the journey north to the home port of Ushuaia. Review the highlights of the Antarctic experience with the lecturers and staff. Keep eyes peeled on the observation deck for some last-minute whale sightings. Leave Antarctica and head north across the Drake Passage. In between bird watching and whale watching and enjoying some final lectures by the expedition staff, this is a chance to relax and review the adventures of the past week before returning to Ushuaia.

    Remember, the best way to experience the wildlife of the Drake Passage is to be on deck keeping a look out for Albatross, Prions and Whales!

  • Day 13

    Ushuaia

    Disembark the Expedition after breakfast.

What's Included

  • Accommodation

    Twin-share hotel (1 nt), aboard the Expedition in quad-, triple-, twin-share cabins, or suites (all with en suite bathrooms and porthole or window, 11 nts). Please note that all cabins consist of twin-size berths and are ocean-facing. Suites have one queen-size bed.

  • Meals

    Breakfasts: 12, Lunches: 10, Dinners: 11

    Vegetarian options are available on all meals throughout the adventure.

    Vegetarian options available

  • Local Guide

    Guided

    This adventure is led by a local guide throughout. The main language of this adventure is English. Please contact us for other languages available.

  • Airport Transfers

    Arrival Only

    An airport transfer to the start of the tour is included. Please contact our team if you require a quote for a return transfer.

  • Wifi

    Wifi is available during the adventure. In some areas and / or accommodation / transport Wifi may be free.

Dates & Prices

  • Nov 2026

    from £6,719
  • Dec 2026

    from £6,509
  • Nov 2027

    from £8,899
  • Dec 2027

    from £9,499
  • Save 30%
    Tuesday 1 Dec 2026to Sunday 13 Dec 2026
    6+ spaces of 134 leftGuaranteed Departure
    £9,299£6,509
    Pay MonthlyBest offer
    Book for£250 today, pay the rest later

Customer reviews & ratings

(5 out of 5)
Based on 161 reviews
  • Excellent holiday experience

    Allison Dec, 2019 Verified
  • The trip was very well organised and met all my expectations. In fact exceeded in a lot of cases

    Daniel Dec, 2019 Verified

Essential trip information

Our Important Notes and Packing List cover all essentials, from necessary equipment to inclusions, ensuring you're fully equipped and informed for this extraordinary adventure and more.

Frequently asked questions

  • What are the main highlights of the Antarctica Classic in Depth tour?

    This tour allows you to spend six full days exploring the Antarctic Peninsula and South Shetland Islands, conquer the notorious Drake Passage, learn from polar experts, encounter amazing polar wildlife, marvel at immense icebergs, and spend time on deck watching soaring albatross.
  • What type of accommodation is provided during the expedition?

    Accommodation includes one night in a twin-share hotel in Ushuaia and eleven nights aboard the Expedition in quad-, triple-, or twin-share cabins or suites, all with en suite bathrooms and a porthole or window. Suites have a queen-size bed, while all other cabins have twin-size berths and are ocean-facing.
  • What meals are included in the trip?

    The tour includes 12 breakfasts, 10 lunches, and 11 dinners. All meals onboard the expedition ship are gourmet international cuisines prepared and catered by professional chefs, and dining is casual with unassigned tables. Coffee, tea, and water are provided free of charge.
  • Are international and local flights included in the tour price?

    No, international flights are generally not included in the price of your tour. Local flights are also not included; it is recommended to arrive in Ushuaia on Day 1. Please note that internal flights in Argentina generally allow less luggage than international flights.
  • What are the age restrictions for this expedition?

    The minimum age to join this trip is 10 years.
  • What is the maximum number of travelers on this tour?

    The maximum group size aboard the Expedition is 134 guests.
  • What is the physical rating for this trip and what does it entail?

    This trip has a Physical Rating of 2. It is accessible to most fitness levels and for those able to do extended walks and light hiking on various terrain. For landings in Antarctica, Zodiacs and wet beach landings in extreme environments are used, requiring participants to safely navigate ice and snow on uneven ground, lift their leg over the side of a Zodiac, walk on wet, rocky beaches, and stand throughout the landing with no place to sit. The Expedition ship does not have an elevator.
  • Is travel insurance compulsory for this trip?

    Yes, travel insurance is compulsory. All clients must have medical coverage with a minimum of USD 200,000 for repatriation and emergency rescue. It is strongly recommended that the policy also covers personal liability, cancellation, curtailment, and loss of luggage and personal effects.
  • What is the accommodation policy for solo travelers?

    If you are a solo traveler and have not selected the Private Cabin option, you will be paired with another solo traveler of the same sex for all nights, including the hotel in Ushuaia. If you have selected the Private Cabin option, you will receive your own room for the duration of the cruise, including the hotel in Ushuaia.
  • What optional activities are available during the expedition?

    Optional activities include a visit to Tierra del Fuego National Park in Ushuaia and a Polar Plunge in the South Shetland Islands. Additionally, camping and kayaking excursions provide opportunities to encounter the polar regions; booking these in advance is strongly recommended due to limited space.
  • What kind of leadership and staff can I expect on the expedition?

    A carefully chosen international team of professional naturalists and lecturers will lead the voyage, with one expedition team member per 10 guests. They provide informed interpretation through stimulating lectures, daily briefings, and informal discussions on ornithology, marine biology, geography, geology, history, and photography. The expedition staff also pilot the Zodiac landing craft.
  • What are the health considerations for this trip, and are medical forms required?

    Passengers must consult their doctor for up-to-date medical travel information and are required to advise if they have any pre-existing conditions by submitting a medical form signed by a physician. The ship is equipped with a small infirmary with a doctor available 24 hours per day for emergencies.
  • What should I know about currency and payment methods while on this tour?

    While on board our Expedition ships, major credit cards (VISA, Mastercard, and AMEX) are accepted for incidental bills like bar bills and laundry, as the ship is cashless. For the Argentinean portion of this tour, bringing USD in cash is recommended as it can be easier than using credit cards or withdrawing ARS from an ATM.
  • What is the recommended tipping guideline for the crew and staff?

    The industry standard and suggested amount for tipping is USD $10 - 15 per person per day spent on board. Tipping is a personal choice, and crew tips may be settled using most major credit cards by the ship's Purser.
  • How much emergency money should I have access to?

    It is recommended to have access to at least an additional USD $200 (or equivalent) as an 'emergency' fund, to be used when circumstances outside of our control (e.g., a natural disaster) require a change to the planned route.
  • How does the tour operator contribute to environmental conservation?

    Every Expedition cruise raises thousands of dollars for Planeterra, supporting the Ocean Health Fund to combat waste, conduct scientific research, and promote ocean conservation. All operations aboard the ship adhere to the International Association of Antarctica Tour Operators (IAATO)'s strict rules and guidelines for environmentally responsible travel to Antarctica. Efforts are also made to reduce single-use plastic items onboard, and guests are provided with a complimentary reusable water bottle.
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