ANTARCTIC EXPLORER (FLY SOUTH)

SHIP OFFERING THIS ITINERARY

Douglas Mawson

Setting sail in 2025, the Douglas Mawson is a new state-of-the-art ship and the last in a line of purpose-built vessels that have redefined small ship expedition cruising. Named after the legendary Australian geologist and explorer, this new small ship embodies Mawson’s pioneering spirit and is designed for global discovery. The Douglas Mawson features a host of amenities to help you connect with like-minded travellers and elevate your time onboard your floating base camp for adventure. After a long day of exploring, head to the back deck to swim in the heated outdoor swimming pool, find a sun bed to read on, or soak in one of two Jacuzzis. Work up a sweat in the gym before unwinding in the sauna, resolve to learn something new in the Citizen Science Centre, then enjoy a delicious meal with new and old friends in one of two restaurants. Or, with multiple observation areas throughout the ship, simply relax in comfort while you keep watch for wildlife or incredible landscapes that unfold before you.

Greg Mortimer

The Greg Mortimer is a new purpose built, polar expedition vessel taking 130 guests. This vessel has been designed in close consultation with Antarctic expedition specialists and is the first expedition cruise ship designed with the ULSTEIN X-BOW hull. This cutting edge nautical technology allows for gentle travel and motion at sea, improved comfort and safety on-board, reduced vibrations, lower fuel consumption and emissions and ‘virtual anchoring’ which means the ship can float anchor-less while launching the Zodiacs without disturbing delicate sea floor areas. There are four sea-level launching platforms for fast and efficient access to and from Zodiacs.

Sylvia Earle

Launched in 2022 the 2nd purpose built expedition vessel by Aurora Expeditions honours the highly accomplished marine biologist, oceanographer and explorer, Sylvia Earle. As the first female chief scientist of the U.S. National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, and named by Time Magazine as its first Hero for the Planet in 1998 this vessel pays tribute to Sylvia’s long standing conservation efforts for marine protected areas and ocean wildlife.

Besides the same revolutionary Ulstein X BOW hull design like the Greg Mortimer, the Sylvia Earle features a distinctive Glass Atrium Lounge at the bow of the ship with a stunning panoramic view on both port and starboard side, Lecture theatre and lounge, a swimming pool and jacuzzi where you can admire impressive scenery while watching the world go by.

Day 1 Punta Arenas – Chile

Day 2 King George Island

Your Antarctic adventure begins with a two-hour flight from Punta Arenas to King George Island, in the South Shetland Islands. As you step off the plane a rush of excitement will steam through you as clear Antarctic air fills your lungs for the first time. Here you will explore the area surrounding Chile’s Frei Station and Russia’s Bellingshausen station, before boarding a Zodiac to board your vessel, settle into your cabin and meet the expedition team.

Days 3-9 Antarctic Peninsula

The Antarctic Peninsula’s western flanks offer long days and relatively ice-free waters. Visit historic huts and Zodiac cruise through narrow straits and majestic icebergs, and if you’re lucky, whale watch from the bow of the ship. A few landing points you may visit include Half Moon Bay, Lemaire Channel and Hydrurga Rocks. The ship may visit the large Adelie and gentoo penguin colonies and hike to spectacular vantage points. Wherever you go, wildlife, Heroic Age relics and haunting landscapes await.

Days 10 & 11 Drake Passage

As the ship navigates towards South America across the Drake Passage keep your eyes peeled for Sea Birds out on deck. Enjoy the educational program from the expedition team and take the time to relax and reminisce about the incredible voyage.

Day 12 Ushuaia

As the ship pulls into the port in Ushuaia this marks the end of your voyage. After breakfast you will disembark the ship and farewell the expedition team and crew.