This itinerary will be conducted at a relaxed pace. You will typically spend several nights at one location which means less time spent packing and unpacking, and more sightseeing. You will be required to move about unassisted, including getting on and off vehicles, walking up and down stairs and handling your own luggage.
For the true explorer, expedition small-ship cruising is the best way to get off the beaten track.This experience is not just about the ship’s creature comforts but very much the destination, its nature and wildlife. Daily shore excursions by Zodiac inflatable boats allow you to step onshore and explore. A world-class, expert expedition team will help you discover each exciting destination. Onboard you’ll enjoy informative and educational lectures. These trips will be a mix of fully guided or self-guided depending on your chosen package. There’s a land touring component with shared sightseeing and transfers.
✓ Add Return International airfares for only $999 per person
✓ Save up to $1,074 per person
✓ BONUS onboard credit of $225 per person
✓ Return South America charter flight from Buenos Aires to Ushuaia
✓ 3 nights in Buenos Aires including breakfast
✓ All airport and port transfers with guide assistance
✓ 16-nights Antarctica expedition cruise onboard the MS Roald Amundsen or MS Fridtjof Nansen
✓ On board accommodation in a Polar Outside Window cabin (RR)
✓ Complimentary wind- and water-resistant jacket to keep
✓ Landings with small Zodiac boats and activities onboard and ashore
✓ Free WiFi onboard for all guests
✓ Three nights accommodation in the Argentinian capital of Buenos Aires
✓ Daily breakfast, 15 lunches and 16 dinners including beer, wine, soft drink and mineral water with meals
✓ Guiding and lectures by world-class expedition team
✓ No gratuities expected
Travel with the experts for a carefully curated, value-packed discovery of the world's most iconic destinations. Our tours are bursting with must-see sights, rich experiences and quality inclusions, all at an unbeatable price. Bucket list dreams are ticked off on these all-encompassing journeys.
Welcome to Argentina!
Begin your adventure with your stay in exotic Buenos Aires. Locals have come to call Argentina’s capital the 'City of Fury', perfectly summing up the Latin fervour their home exudes. Nowhere is this romance and passion better expressed than in each beat of the fiery tango. Head to a neighbourhood bar to watch a not-to-be-missed dance performance before savouring sizzling beef in one of the many great steakhouses the city prides itself on. If time allows, make sure you also take in some of the beautiful French and Italian architecture, like the pretty-in-pink palatial mansion Casa Rosada and the National Museum of Fine Arts, home to works by Van Gogh, Monet and Picasso.
Enjoy a day in Buenos Aires, the bustling capital of Argentina. Spend the day at your leisure and discover `Paris of South America´ for yourself on a warm spring or summer day.
This morning you will be transferred to the airport to take an early flight to Ushuaia. On arrival you will be collected and transferred to board your expedition ship.. Settle into your cabin and familiarise yourself with the ship.
Tonight, we kick off our journey with a welcome dinner.
Before you can relish in the infinite wonders that Antarctica has in store, we first need to make our way through what is infamously known as The Drake ‘Rite Of’ Passage. These turbulent waters were reportedly discovered by chance in the 16th century when one of Sir Francis Drake’s ships was forced south by heavy winds. They are still just as unpredictable today as they were back then, and conditions can vary wildly; rough and shaky or placid as a lake.
It takes approximately two days to cross the Drake Passage. This gives you plenty of time to prepare for the upcoming adventure. Join the Expedition Team in the Science Center for lectures on topics like the Antarctic Treaty, accounts of past polar expeditions and the area’s rich biodiversity from the macro- to the microscopic.
Today we continue our journey across Drake Passage and edge closer to our arrival in Antarctica. Relax and enjoy the ship's amazing facilities or join one of the lectures conducted during the day.
Over the course of your journey, you will grow increasingly fond of the ship as it acts as a warm and homely sanctuary after each day of exploration. Whether your idea of relaxation is hitting the gym or being pampered at a spa, your needs will be covered.
You are about to explore the seventh continent of Antarctica over eleven magical days. Across all our expeditions and all our destinations, this is the longest period we offer in one place. Antarctica is so special and magnificent that it deserves as much time as we can spend here. The Expedition Team will take you on landings and go ice-cruising to get even closer to the amazing icescapes and wildlife. You will also get the chance to enjoy optional activities like showshoeing and kayaking. Not to mention the Citizen Science projects you can join to help scientists all over the world get a better understanding of the wildlife and ecology of Antarctica.
Another day in Antarctic waters learning about the natural flora and fauna, joining Zodiac landings and various activities (weather depending).
Today we continue our expedition cruise. Where many other cruise operators are content to just do a sail-by, on which their guests only see but never set foot on the ice, your expedition with us will bring you ashore and on explorer boat ice-cruises on multiple occasions, which is whenever weather and sea ice conditions are right. This allows you to marvel at the massive ice fronts, dozens of icebergs, glacial walls, and frozen mountains in the safest and most sustainable way. Under the guidance of our experienced Expedition Team, you’ll also observe bustling colonies of everyone's favourite flightless birds, some of whom may be just as curious to see you as you’ll be to see them. Set amid the otherworldly scenery of Antarctica, your first small step on each landing marks one giant leap in your story here.
Together, we will go places few have been before, even attempting to venture beyond a numerous possible landing zones on the Antarctic Peninsula, past the Antarctic Circle and deep into the hidden corners of the continent. As long as weather and sea ice cooperate, we’ll sail as far as the polar circle at 66°33' South and beyond to Marguerite Bay. Rarely visited even by other expeditions, this wide bay is iced over for most of the year and is usually only accessible in the late summer season, even that is no guarantee. Whales are known to frequent the area, while the icy islands are havens for Adélie penguin rookeries and other polar birdlife. There are a number of scientific research bases located around Marguerite Bay which we will try and land at if conditions allow, such as a modern base on Horseshoe Island and historic ruins on Stonington Island.
Another day in Antarctic waters learning about the natural flora and fauna, joining Zodiac landings and joining various activities (weather depending).
Another day in Antarctic waters learning about the natural flora and fauna, joining Zodiac landings and joining various activities (weather depending).
Another day in Antarctic waters learning about the natural flora and fauna, joining Zodiac landings and joining various activities (weather depending).
Another day in Antarctic waters learning about the natural flora and fauna, joining Zodiac landings and joining various activities (weather depending).
Another day in Antarctic waters learning about the natural flora and fauna, joining Zodiac landings and joining various activities (weather depending).
Another day in Antarctic waters learning about the natural flora and fauna, joining Zodiac landings and joining various activities (weather depending).
Another day in Antarctic waters, heading towards our return journey across the Drake Passage. Enjoy your final day of Zodiac landings.
After ten adrenaline-inducing days of high adventure in Antarctica, we’ll start heading back north to civilisation and to warmer weather. The two days spent back across the Drake Passage will allow you to press pause and fully absorb the amazing time you’ve just had. Share the trip’s most vivid highlights with fellow expedition members who, after your experiences together, have gone from strangers to lifelong friends. Join art classes, learn how to tie different kinds of sailor’s knots, and keep active in the gym and toasty in the sauna. Or watch for seabirds outside. By now, what with the Expedition Team’s lectures, you’ll hopefully be able to identify many of Antarctica’s winged wonders on your own.
Enjoy your final day at sea as your ship makes it way back to South America. Relax and enjoy your ship's facilities, or join one of the lectures conducted throughout the day.
Sadly, every adventure must come to an end. It is time to say goodbye to the crew and all your new friends when we reach Ushuaia. We transfer you to the airport for your flight back to Buenos Aires. On arrival at the airport you will be welcomed by your guide and transferred to your hotel.
Today our amazing adventure comes to an end in Buenos Airies.
You have traveled to the bottom of the world and back. You’ve seen the fabled seventh continent with your own eyes and have enchanting stories (and penguin photos) to prove it. Antarctica will likely hold a place in your heart unlike anywhere else on the planet. As one the special few who have had the opportunity to visit the Great White Continent, we must consider all that needs to be done, and all that we can do, to help preserve the most fragile of ecosystems and its unique beauty. We hope you have been Inspired.
Cabin Bedding and Upgrades
Bedding on board the cruise is restricted to the following configurations. If you wish to upgrade your cabin, the following amounts are payable in addition to the package price prior to travel:
Polar Outside (RR): INCLUDED
Our Polar Outside cabins are mostly situated on the middle or lower decks and have a window and bathroom with a shower. These cabins also have a queen bed or separate beds. Each Polar Outside cabin has its own unique specifications.
Arctic Superior Balcony Cabin (XT)
Relaxation and comfort are hallmarks of the Arctic Superior cabins. Situated on both the upper and middle decks, these cabins offer private balconies for the perfect viewing experience. The cabins all have a bathroom with a shower. Most have a queen bed, while some have separate beds. Upgrades from AU$2,743 per person, twin share or $5,486 for singles (subject to availability).
Expedition Suite (ME)
Our Expedition Suites are the most luxurious cabins on the ship. Situated on the upper decks of the ship, these cabins feature seating areas with a TV, a bathroom with a shower, and a queen bed. Each Expedition Suite offers a private balcony. Upgrades from AU$5,630 per person, twin share or $11,260 for singles (subject to availability).
Cabin Upgrades and prices are subject to availability upon booking. Please note your upgrade option as a special request when booking and our team will be in touch with a confirmed quote. If we are unable to confirm your request, we will quote alternative options.
Please request your cabin upgrade in the 'special requests' field. Availability and price will then be confirmed and added to your invoice upon acceptance.
MS Roald Amundsen and MS Fridjof Nansen are our revolutionary hybrid-powered expedition vessels with battery packs that store electric power. These ship has more efficient engines, lower fuel usage, reduced C02 emissions, and the ability to sail almost silently.
Welcome to the future of sustainable expedition cruising. We’ve designed every element of our new ships to enhance your journey and create a warm and informal atmosphere. Join us in premium onboard surroundings as we explore some of the most beautiful places on Earth
To know more about MS Roald Amundsen, click HERE.
To know more about MS Fridjof Nansen, click HERE.
Onboard Features
Hotel
Transfers
Flights
Expedition Cruise
Onboard Activities
Landing Activities
Notes
Inspiring Vacations has been globally recognized and awarded for its handling of COVID-19 during the pandemic. The safety and well-being of our guests are our highest concern during this time of uncertainty, and we are continuously monitoring the evolving COVID-19 situation.
We have adopted the advice of the WHO to ensure all customers can travel with the knowledge of how to travel safely and with confidence.
Australian owned and operated
We are proudly 100% Australian-owned and now operating across Australia, New Zealand, the United States, and Canada. Our head office is located in Melbourne, Victoria, with offices around the globe to provide you with 24/7 support while you travel. When you book with Inspiring Vacations, you'll receive the support of travel professionals who are committed to the mission of inspiring people everywhere to experience the world.
Cooling off period
If you change your mind within 7 days of making your booking online, you can request a refund of your initial deposit payment as part of our cooling-off period. Once your purchase date falls outside of the 7-day period, our standard terms and conditions will apply.
Please ensure that any request to cancel your booking is received via email to support@inspiringvacations.com, including the reason for cancellation.
We offer two payment options – the choice is yours. Our advertised price is based on our 'Pay in Full' option, which includes a discount by making full payment at the time of booking. Alternatively, choose our 'Installment Payment Plan' option for the flexibility of incremental payments, beginning with a low deposit.
Please click 'Book Now' and proceed to the payment page to select your preferred option under the heading ‘Choose how to pay’. The total due will be reflected accordingly.
Pay In Full Option:
Installment Payment Plan Option:
Booking Process
Booking On Request
Business Class upgrades
Please specify this in the “Special Request” field when completing your booking and you will be quoted for the additional fare at the time of booking your flights.
Extending Your Stay
Some customers like to enhance their holiday by extending their stay pre- and/or post-tour. If you wish to do so, please follow these steps:
Once you have logged in to your account, click on ‘Book Now’ and complete the required fields until you reach the 'Special Requests' free text field. Here, be sure to mention if you would like us to also quote additional nights' accommodation, with the number of nights needed.
COVID-19
Due to COVID there maybe disruptions to standard operating schedules of particular components of this itinerary. Should a component be effected a substitute will be confirmed prior to departure.
Please ensure that you review Hurtigruten entry requirements information HERE, in addition to reviewing Smart Traveller advice prior to your departure. When you follow this link, you will see that there are some forms that you are required to complete and return to Hurtigruten prior to your voyage. It is the customers' responsibility to ensure that all required forms are completed and returned to ensure they are permitted embarkation for your cruise.
Furthermore, Hurtigruten requires all guests (including children) sailing on any Hurtigruten Expeditions cruise to be fully vaccinated against COVID-19 with a WHO-approved vaccine. In addition, the vaccine and the vaccine certificate must comply with the local regulations in the area of the cruise. Thank you for your understanding.
Fitness Requirements
While the tour itinerary should give you some guidance and overview to the expected requirements, to determine if this tour is right for you we categorise each of our tours in terms of their intensity.
These guidelines are to ensure that each tour group is conducted as expected and to ensure the overall satisfaction of all Inspiring Vacations customers. As a general rule, porterage is not included, therefore at all times you are expected to handle your own luggage where help may not be available.
Accommodation
The accommodation listed is subject to change. Any changes will be of an equal or higher standard. Bedding configurations (double or twin) are requests only and subject to availability. All efforts will be made to meet your preferences, however any changes are beyond our control.
Single Supplement
Single supplement is $7,138.00 per person, in addition to the twin-share price.
Triple Share
Not Available
Travel Insurance
Travel insurance is required to protect yourself against the unexpected.
Visa & Passport information
It is the traveller's responsibility to ensure they have a valid passport. The passport must be valid for a minimum of six months from the intended date of return.
Australian passport holders do not require a visa for travel to Argentina or Antarctica.
Please note that these details are subject to change without notice. We recommend visiting https://smartraveller.gov.au for up to date information in terms of entry requirements.
Tour Documentation
Final documentation including, e-tickets and cruise details, will be provided approximately 30 days prior to travel.
Group Size
2-500 people.
Trip Style - Expedition Cruise
These trips are for the true explorer. Expedition small ship cruising is the best way to get off-the-beaten-track and see some of the world's most unspoilt and remote destinations. The experience on an expedition cruise is very different from that of a conventional, larger cruise ship. The focus is not about the ship’s creature comforts but very much about about the destination, it’s nature and wildlife.
Daily shore excursions by zodiac inflatable boats allow you to step on to shore in the world's most remote locations where few have ever been before. These trips will be a mix of fully guided or self-guided depending on your chosen package, on board your small ship you'll have an expert expedition team giving you informative lectures and educational lectures in many different scientific fields.
Children
Children must be 12 years old or above and share a room with parents at all times. Children are charged the same price as adults.
18 Sep 2020
From penguins to whales and birds, wildlife are the star attractions on an Antarctic adventure An expedition to the Antarctic is a once in a lifetime journey. Traversing the mighty Drake Passage, circling the Antarctic Peninsula, watching icebergs drift by in the southern ocean and stepping onto the icy continent for t...
16 Sep 2020
Exhausted, cold, beaten. Expeditions aren't for the faint-hearted and these first explorers will not be forgotten At the turn of the 20th century, during an era of exploration and adventure, expeditions were sent to the most remote corners of the earth to discover places where man had never walked. The race was on to g...
16 Sep 2020
It may be a frozen desert but there’s still a whole lot of wildlife in Antarctica Here, 12 Antarctica residents you're most likely to encounter on your icy adventures. PENGUINS Six out of 17 species of penguin can be seen waddling, swimming, nesting or just playing on any trip to Antarctica. Chinstrap penguins One of t...
16 Sep 2020
The frozen continent is the most remote corner of earth. We speak to one of the only people on earth who has spent two years living at the South Pole Just a century ago, man first set foot on this frozen land. This dry, cold desert supports no mammals or plant life, and only a couple of hardy grasses manage to survive...
16 Sep 2020
Hurtigruten’s new addition is a world leader in innovation and environmentally-conscious expedition cruising Exploring the Antarctic is a dream come true for many, and with the remote continent becoming more accessible every year, it’s no longer a choice of "how do I get there?" But rather, "which option do I choose?"...
16 Sep 2020
Shore excursions are the highlights of any expedition cruise - here's what you need to know For most, travelling to Antarctica is a once-in-a-lifetime journey. The frozen continent is home to extraordinary wildlife, a baffling landscape and 90% of the world’s ice. It’s also one of the most remote places in the world, m...
16 Sep 2020
From temperature to sights and safety, we answer the most commonly asked questions It’s hard to believe that wild and untamed frontiers still exist today, but that’s exactly what Antarctica is. Nature at its most raw and unfiltered; where penguins, seals, whales and birds roam the icy land unencumbered. The only place...
16 Sep 2020
Antarctica is one of the most pristine pieces of wilderness on the planet. But, when is the best time to go? Antarctica is like another world. In this far southern continent, Mother Nature rules; cross the Drake Passage and you’ll enter the domain of natural wonder at its finest. Here, wildlife from penguins to whales...
16 Sep 2020
Before travelling to the icy continent, its sights and fascinating history are best explored through screen and literature As the most remote destination on earth visited by a few thousand every season (November to March), it’s no surprise that Antarctica is shrouded in mystery. If you’re considering a trip to the migh...
