Overview
Embark on an expedition cruise to the Antarctic Peninsula, beyond the Polar Circle, and the South Shetland Islands, filled with thrilling adventure activities. Aboard the St Helena, discover the untouched beauty and exhilarating challenges of the White Continent. This 12-day voyage promises stunning landscapes, exceptional wildlife encounters, and the chance to dive into adventure with activities such as kayaking, snowshoeing, and zodiac cruises.
Ideal for active adventurers with a passion for the extraordinary, this journey is perfect for those who want to go further—beyond the Polar Circle. If you crave immersive experiences like kayaking through ice-laden waters, snowshoeing across untouched terrain, and spotting wildlife in remote corners of the White Continent, this action-filled voyage offers the ultimate blend of comfort and exploration.
Expedition Itinerary
Today you’ll board the expedition vessel in the afternoon, where you'll meet your crew and fellow travellers. After settling into your cabin, the ship then sets off along the picturesque Beagle Channel. Relish your first evening at sea as the southernmost tip of South America disappears from view.
Start your Antarctic adventure with a crossing of the Drake Passage, a vast stretch of open ocean that marks the Antarctic Convergence, where nutrient-rich waters sustain a vibrant ecosystem.
While at sea, you might choose to attend expert-led talks on Antarctica’s history, wildlife, and geology. Or, head to the open decks or the bridge to spot albatrosses, petrels, and even whales. Adventure activities, including navigation workshops and safety briefings for kayaking and snowshoeing, will also be held.
By the end of Day 3, the first sighting of icebergs and snow-capped peaks will signal your arrival at the South Shetland Islands.
The core of the journey unfolds as you explore the Antarctic Peninsula and South Shetland Islands, with each day offering a blend of landings, zodiac cruises, and optional adventure activities.
Highlights might include kayaking among icebergs, where you paddle through tranquil waters, drifting past seals resting on ice floes and penguins diving in for a swim. You can also strap on snowshoes to explore pristine trails and reach panoramic viewpoints, offering breathtaking vistas of glaciers and peaks. You will visit expansive rookeries of Gentoo, Chinstrap, and Adélie Penguins, watching their amusing behaviours as they care for their chicks or brave the frigid waters. Finally, spot Weddell, crabeater, and leopard seals lounging on ice or hunting in the water, with Minke and humpback whales often seen feeding nearby.
With over 500 diverse landing sites along the Antarctic Peninsula, no two voyages are ever the same. The expert team crafts each expedition based on conditions, weather, and opportunities for the most remarkable encounters. As passenger vessel traffic has increased in recent years, competition for landing sites has intensified—but the deep knowledge of this pristine region ensures you’ll embark on true exploratory journeys, venturing beyond the crowds.
Guided by the experienced crew, you’ll navigate breathtaking ice-choked channels, witness towering glaciers, and encounter extraordinary wildlife in one of the most remote places on Earth. This is not just a cruise—it’s a genuine expedition where spontaneity and discovery define every day.
Wildlife enthusiasts will be thrilled by close encounters with Adélie, Gentoo, and Chinstrap Penguins, as well as crabeater, Weddell, and leopard seals. Keep an eye out for Minke, humpback, and orca whales feeding in the nutrient-rich waters. This journey sets the compass south, aiming for the elusive Polar Circle – a true expedition for explorers.
As the expedition heads back north, there’s an opportunity for a final landing or zodiac cruise. Weather and ice conditions permitting, explore destinations like Brown Bluff, where towering cliffs and an Adélie penguin colony await, or Paulet Island, home to historic sites and abundant wildlife.
Relive your adventures as you cross the Drake Passage, keeping an eye out for seabirds and whales along the way. Take part in final lectures or workshops, and enjoy a celebratory dinner with your fellow travellers as you reflect on the unforgettable journey.
You’ll arrive back in Ushuaia in the early morning. After breakfast, disembark with cherished memories of an epic Antarctic expedition and new stories to tell.
Exploration Costs
Starting from AUD$21,541 per person (based on 2 adults sharing)
The Details
- All accommodation onboard as listed
- Full board meals
- Lunch and dinner drink package with wine, beer, and soda
- 24-hour tea and coffee station with snacks
- Guided walks, daily shore excursions and zodiac cruises (weather and operations permitting)
- Kayaking, Snowshoeing, Camping and Yoga (weather and operations permitting)
- Educational talks and lectures
- Airport transfers
- All gratuities and tipping
- Muck boots on loan
- Outer parka on loan, Inner jacket to keep
- Basic Wi-Fi
- Taxes, port fees, landing fees and permits
- International flights and airport taxes
- Any accommodation pre/post the voyage
- Any meals not included in the above itinerary
- Any beverages not included in the above itinerary
- Any entrance fees and excursions not included in the above itinerary
- Laundry
- Comprehensive travel insurance (required)
- Items of personal nature (telephone expenses, curios, medicines etc)
- Visa fees






