Emperor Penguin Quest: Expedition to Snow Hill 14% Advantage

IThe expedition begins in Buenos Aires and continues via Ushuaia into the Antarctic waters of the Weddell Sea. The main focus of the voyage is the sea ice surrounding Snow Hill Island, home to a seasonal colony of emperor penguins. Aboard the expedition ship Ultramarine, specially designed for polar navigation, both Zodiacs and two helicopters are available for landings and scenic flights. The helicopters provide impressive aerial perspectives of icebergs, pack ice and the coastal landscape, while the Zodiac excursions allow close observation of the ice-covered areas. The daily programme combines wildlife observation at a safe distance, flexible landings, and an extensive educational offering from the expedition team. Experts provide insights into polar history, wildlife and ice formations, delivering both lectures and practical demonstrations of expedition life. Routes, activities and landings are varied to provide a comprehensive experience of the region.
 

Itinerary: Emperor Penguin Quest: Expedition to Snow Hill

 
Day 1: Arrive in Buenos Aires, Argentina
Upon arrival, guests make their own way to the designated group hotel, where one night’s accommodation is included as part of the mandatory transfer package. The remainder of the day is free for personal exploration.
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Day 2: Fly to Ushuaia and Embark
In the morning, guests are transferred to the airport for a charter flight to Ushuaia, one of the southernmost cities in the world. After some free time, embarkation takes place in the afternoon. The voyage begins through the Beagle Channel towards the Southern Ocean.
 
Day 3 & 4: Crossing the Drake Passage
During the crossing of the Drake Passage, which connects the Pacific and Atlantic Oceans, the expedition team delivers briefings and lectures on navigation, wildlife and the history of the region. From the deck, seabirds and marine mammals may be observed.
 
Day 5: Navigating into the Weddell Sea
As the ship enters the Weddell Sea, introductions are provided on polar research and emperor penguin ecology. Planned activities include educational sessions, wildlife observation and preparation for landings near the colony.
 
Day 6 to 10: Weddell Sea and the Quest to Land at Snow Hill
During these days, the ship manoeuvres close to the sea ice near Snow Hill Island. Helicopter transfers bring guests near the emperor penguin colony, and landings are conducted at a regulated distance to avoid disturbing the animals. From there, guests walk across the sea ice to reach the colony, which typically numbers several thousand penguins. Zodiac excursions between icebergs, optional kayaking, and lectures and practical introductions to ice, wildlife and polar history are offered. Onboard facilities include lounges, a fitness area and a sauna. Alternative landings on the east side of the Antarctic Peninsula are included if required. Possible locations include:
- Brown Bluff – a prominent volcanic cliff with breeding colonies of Adélie and Gentoo penguins.
- Devil Island – noted from the Swedish Antarctic Expedition of 1901–1904.
- Hope Bay – near an Argentine research station.
- Paulet Island – with a large Adélie penguin colony and historical expedition site.
- Seymour Island – known for fossil finds and the K–Pg geological boundary.

The actual route is adjusted daily according to current conditions.
 
Day 11 to 13: Cruising
The return crossing of the Drake Passage provides additional opportunities for wildlife observation and further lectures. The expedition team summarises experiences and is available for questions.
 
Day 14: Disembark in Ushuaia and Fly to Buenos Aires
After breakfast, guests disembark. As part of the transfer package, a visit to Tierra del Fuego National Park is included before the charter flight back to Buenos Aires.

Accommodation: Guests stay aboard the modern Ultramarine, which offers a range of amenities including a sauna and fitness facilities. With a capacity of just 150 guests, the ship provides an intimate atmosphere and personalised service. The dedicated expedition team supports guests throughout the journey.
 
Additional Information: Included in the trip are full board with selected drinks, Wi-Fi onboard, and an official expedition parka to keep. The mandatory transfer package includes a hotel night prior to departure and the charter flight to Ushuaia. Programme, landings and duration may vary slightly depending on local conditions. Wildlife observation follows Antarctic guidelines, maintaining appropriate distance.
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