Weddell Sea Quest

Embark on a thrilling expedition aboard the USHUAIA to explore the Antarctic Peninsula, South Shetland Islands, and the captivating Weddell Sea. Join our enthusiastic crew, witness tabular icebergs, and encounter diverse wildlife. Experience history, pristine landscapes, and iconic sites. This unforgettable journey promises a unique Antarctic adventure.

Day by day

Day 1: Depart from Ushuaia

Meet your lecture and expedition staff in the late afternoon. We sail the Beagle Channel, and scenic Mackinlay Pass after you settle into your cabins.

Day 2 & 3: Crossing the Drake Passage

The Drake Passage, named after Sir Francis Drake who explored these waters back in 1578 marks the Antarctic Convergence. This is a bio barrier that occurs when cold water from the poles sinks below the warm waters of the north. The result is a huge upwelling of nutrients that sustains biodiversity in this area. Drake Passage is also the northernmost limit for many Antarctic seabirds.

Antarpply Expeditions lecturers are on the deck with you to identify the amazing array of seabirds that follow us, such as the albatrosses. Open bridges are a USHUAIA policy that allows passengers to learn navigation and whale watching from our officers. There will also be a full schedule of lectures.

We have now reached the South Shetland Islands. This group of 20 islands and islets was first discovered in February 1819, by Captain. William Smith, the captain of the Williams. On Day 3, our naturalists and lecturers will be with you as you have your first experience of penguins or seals.

Day 4 to 6: Exploring the Weddell Sea

Day 7 & 8: Exploring the Antarctic Peninsula and the South Shetland Islands

Day 9 & 10: At Sea. Crossing the Drake Passage, northboundv

Day 11: Arrival in Ushuaia

Deception Island | South Shetland Islands | Antarctica

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Highlights

Begin your adventure from Ushuaia, sailing through the iconic Beagle Channel and the picturesque Mackinlay Pass.

Traverse the famous Drake Passage, marked by its rich biodiversity, seabirds, and impressive icebergs.

Immerse yourself in the awe-inspiring landscapes of the Weddell Sea, featuring massive icebergs and unique wildlife encounters.

Explore historic sites such as Hope Bay, Paulet Island, and the Antarctic Peninsula, uncovering tales of early explorers and scientific endeavors.

Navigate through stunning waterways like the Gerlache Strait, Errera Channel, and Neumayer Channel, visiting captivating sites like Paradise Bay and Cuverville Island.

Activities

Sea Kayaking

Under full instruction from your sea kayaking guide, experience true tranquillity as you paddle through clinking ice floes and realise the enormity of the surrounding scenery. Look out for breaching whales, lounging seals and penguins zipping alongside your kayak. Some experience is required.

Ice Camping

Camp out on the ice and experience the silence which blankets the continent by night. This is your chance to completely connect with this ethereal ice world – wrap up warm and embrace the Antarctic elements.

Snowshoeing

Get a spring in your step when you slip on a pair of snowshoes in Antarctica. Enabling you to easily scale gentle slopes, this unique activity allows you to access hard to reach places and seek out the most impressive views.

Photography

Learn to capture wildlife and landscape shots in a small group photography program, including critiquing sessions and editing classes. Plus, Explorer Boat excursions with a dedicated photography expert on landings.

Explorer Boats

Achieve the best views and photographs from a forward facing Explorer Boats. They allow you to sit comfortably and securely while crackling through the ice-strewn waters. Look out for wildlife such as penguins, seals and whales as you cruise.

Yoga

It doesn’t get more serene than complimentary yoga classes to the tune of glacial scenery. Join the most unique exercise setting in the world after a day of exploration. Classes are regular but are dependent on weather conditions and swell.

Day by day

Highlights

Activities

Weddell Sea Quest

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