Wilderness Travel

Early Sign-up Discount

Nov 2021- Feb 2022 departure

  • Save 10% on Triple, Main Deck, and Classic Suites.
  • Save 15% on Superior, Deluxe, Premium and Owner’s Suites.

Offer Expires Oct 31, 2020

Antarctica: Sea Spirit

Expedition Cruise to the White Continent

What Makes Our Antarctica Trips Special?

  • With over 30 years of experience in Antarctica, we know the continent intimately and have selected the best designed itineraries that combine adventure, style and safety.
  • Small ships provide a wonderful advantage, letting you anchor closer to shore and allowing more time to explore on land—larger vessels are far less maneuverable, and because of regulations in Antarctica must have their passengers wait in shifts to make landfall.
  • A stellar team of on-board experts accompanies you on twice-daily landings and provides fascinating presentations on their fields of expertise, from marine biology to Antarctic history.
  • Each of the ships we’ve chosen have ice-strengthened hulls and advanced stabilization systems—and all adhere to the IAATO’s strict environmental guidelines designed to preserve Antarctica’s unique environment.
  • The majority of the itineraries we’ve selected are aboard all-suite luxury expedition ships with ocean-view staterooms, and abundant public space for relaxing. A few adventure expedition ships are also featured which offer fascinating options to camp, ski, kayak and even scuba in Antarctica.
Choose from a Variety of Ships

We offer several exciting voyages to Antarctica aboard a variety of ships. This is the detailed information for Antarctica: Sea Spirit. To see all departures on all ships, please click here.

Overview

Antarctica is like no other place on the planet, and to experience its ethereal splendor is a rare privilege. This expedition cruise explores the Antarctic Peninsula, one of the most spectacular parts of the continent and one of the most wildlife-rich regions in the world. Cruise glacier-lined fjords, head out for Zodiac adventures among icebergs of fantastic form, walk through colonies of seals, sea lions, and nesting penguins—all in nearly 20-hour daylight! Throughout the voyage, expert naturalists share their in-depth knowledge of this miraculous continent.

This was a wonderful experience. The ship was terrific, and coming back to warm rooms and gourmet meals after a day of excursions in the Antarctic was special. I would highly recommend this trip.
— Phil H., Lowell, MA

Note: This cruise is not exclusive to, nor operated by, Wilderness Travel, who acts solely as agent in booking your reservation with the ship operator. The itinerary, lecturers, and all other arrangements are subject to change at the discretion of the cruise line.

Itinerary

Day 1
Ushuaia, Argentina

Antarctica is everything south of the Antarctic convergence, a biological boundary that fluctuates between 50° and 60° South.  Upon arrival an airport transfer is provided to the group hotel.  The remainder of the day is free to explore the city on your own.  Overnight in Ushuaia.

Arakur Ushuaia Resort and Spa
Ushuaia, Argentina
Day 1 (1 night)
Day 2
Embarkation Day

You have the morning free to explore Ushuaia on your own. In the afternoon, you will be transfered to the pier to board the Sea Spirit - your home away from home for this extraordinary adventure.  The Sea Spirit navigates the historic Beagle Channel, where Captain Fitzroy and Charles Darwin traveled onboard the HMS Beagle in 1835.

Day 3-4
Crossing the Drake Passage

While crossing Drake's Passage, join the naturalist guides on deck to identify seabirds gliding alongside the ship and attend wildlife, geography, and historical presentations by the Expedition Team that will prepare you for upcoming shore landings and Zodiac cruises. A fascinating education program is part of every expedition itinerary.

Day 5-9
Antarctic Peninsula

This is expedition cruising at its most authentic. The route and exploration opportunities in Antarctica are heavily dependent on weather and ice conditions. The experienced captain and expedition leader decide the itinerary and continually adjust plans as conditions and opportunities warrant. You will explore the highlights of the Antarctic Peninsula with exciting Zodiac cruises and walks on land for wildlife spotting. Over the course of the austral spring and summer, the sun lingers longer and longer, melting snow and ice. 

The Antarctic Peninsula region contains some of the world’s most impressive scenery and some of Antarctica’s best wildlife viewing opportunities. Protected bays and narrow channels are surrounded by towering mountain peaks covered in permanent snow and immense glaciers. Icebergs of every size and description complete an image of incomparable beauty. Waters rich with krill are home to a variety of whale and seal species. The whole area is alive with penguins foraging at sea and forming large nesting colonies at special places on land. The area is also home to Antarctic research stations of various nationalities. Some stations have a gift shop and post office.
 
The South Shetland Islands are the northernmost islands in Antarctica and will likely be your first sighting of land. This wild and beautiful island chain contains numerous landing sites with abundant wildlife and historical significance. Among them is Deception Island, where the flooded caldera of an active volcano harbors an abandoned whaling station.  This sea-filled volcanic crater, which last erupted in 1970 (with minor eruptions as late as 1992), has a thermally heated spring near Pendulum Cove—bring your bathing suit for a hot soak in Antarctica! Deception was a major whaling station in the early 20th century (rusty boilers used to make whale oil remain, as well as whale bones) and it was from here that explorer Nathaniel Palmer allegedly became the first American to sight the Antarctic continent in 1820 from a high point called Neptune’s Window.
 
Farther south, on the Antarctic Peninsula, the vast Gerlache Strait area contains sheltered bays, accessible wildlife, and stunning scenery. Places with names like Paradise Bay are the epitome of everything Antarctic: glaciated mountains, towering icebergs, feeding whales, seals on ice floes, and bustling penguin colonies.
 
At the southern end of Gerlache Strait is the famous Lemaire Channel, also known as “Kodak Gap” because of the photogenic way the mountainous sides of the narrow channel are reflected in calm waters strewn with icebergs. At the south end of the channel lies Pleneau Island, first explored during Charcot’s 1903-05 French Antarctic Expedition. Pleneau boasts dazzling ice formations and teeming gentoo penguin rookeries, as well as southern elephant seals that often haul out in the wallows. Conditions permitting, you may also navigate through the stunning Neumayer Channel.

Camping and kayaking programs are offered at additional cost.  Space is limited so be sure to inquire about these programs when you secure your cabin.

Day 10-11
The Drake Passage to Ushuaia

After an amazing time in Antarctica you cross back north through the bountiful waters of the Drake Passage. Preseantions and workshops by the expert staff, as well as a range of onboard recreation facilities, ensure that these days at sea are not idly spent. This is also the time for the End of Voyage ceremonies including slideshow and farewell dinner.

Day 12
Ushuaia

After breakfast aboard the ship, a group transfer is provided to the airport for homeward flight or town center if you wish to spend more time there.

Details

Length: 12 days
Cost From: $7495  
Full pricing
Arrive: Ushuaia, Argentina
Depart: Ushuaia, Argentina
Lodging: 10 nights aboard deluxe vessel, 1 hotel night
View Lodging
Meals: All meals included
Activity: Wildlife & Natural History, Small Ship Cruising, Sea Kayaking, Photography, Whale Watching
Trip Level:

12-or 13-day expedition cruise, nature walks on uneven ground, Zodiac cruising with wet landings, possibility of rough seas and cold weather
What the Trip is Like
Cruise collection 2021 brochure

Download Brochure

We’ve searched the world to find the finest small ships with the most intriguing cruising itineraries, from the High Arctic to Patagonia to the great rivers of Europe.

View our online digital brochure on your computer or mobile device, or download as a PDF! Or request a printed copy to be sent by mail, or by calling 800-368-2794.

Trip Cost

Nov 10-21, 2021; Dec 20-30, 2021; Feb 8-19, 2022; Feb 18-Mar 1, 2022
Per person, double occupancy
CategoriesPrice
Triple Classic $9095
Main Deck Suite $12,095
Classic Suite $12,295
Superior Suite $13,195
Deluxe Suite $14,695
Premium Suite $15,795
Owner's Suite $19,995
Camping option: $285 per person (limited)
Kayaking option: $795 per person (limited)
Dec 29, 2021-Jan 9, 2022
Per person, double occupancy
CategoriesPrice
Triple Classic $10,095
Main Deck Suite $13,395
Classic Suite $14,395
Superior Suite $14,695
Deluxe Suite $16,295
Premium Suite $17,595
Owner's Suite $22,195
Camping option: $285 per person (limited)
Kayaking option: $795 per person (limited)

Extension Costs

Mendoza Extension: from $1995

Departures

2021
Nov 10-21, 2021
Dec 20-30, 2021   *11-day departure 
Dec 29, 2021-Jan 9, 2022
2022
Feb 8-19, 2022
Feb 18-Mar 1, 2022

Please note: Insurance for emergency medical evacuation is required for all Antarctica cruises. Call for more details.

Deck Plan

Unless otherwise stated, cabins are equipped with either two twins or a king size bed, en suite facilities, walk-in closet or wardrobe, in-room safe, refrigerator, satellite telephone access, TV/VCR, individual temperature control, and hair dryer.

Main Deck Suite: Averaging 248 square feet, Main Deck cabins have a minimum of two portholes for exterior views.

Triple Classic: Averaging 226 square feet, these staterooms have a picture window, a comfortable sofa bed, and two wardrobes.

Classic Suite: Averaging 226 square feet, these cabins feature a picture window and two wardrobes.

Superior Suite: Averaging 215 square feet, these cabins have a picture window overlooking an outside walkway on the Club Deck.

Deluxe Suite: Averaging 258 square feet means plenty of room; a sliding glass door leads to a private balcony.

Premium Suite: Averaging a generous 323 square feet, these cabins include a lounge area and private balcony accessed by a sliding glass door.

Owner’s Suite: Super-spacious at 463 square feet, this elegant suite is located on the Sun Deck. Designed for entertaining, the Owner’s Suite has a separate living room with game and meeting area, a BOSE stereo system, and an HD plasma TV. Sliding glass doors lead to a private deck. Refresh in the jetted bathtub in en suite facilities. Slumber in the King size bed. A sofa bed can accommodate a third person.

Trip Cost Includes

  • One night pre-expedition hotel accommodation with breakfast
  • Shipboard accommodation
  • All meals aboard ship
  • Educational program of lectures and discussions by accompanying Expedition Team and digital photography expert
  • Professional Expedition Leadership
  • Onboard physician
  • All Zodiac transfers and cruising per daily program
  • A pair of waterproof expedition boots on loan for shore landings and an official expedition parka to keep
  • Comprehensive pre-departure materials
  • Group transfers in Ushuaia
  • All miscellaneous service taxes and port charges throughout the program
  • All luggage handling aboard ship
  • Professional expedition leadership

Trip Cost Does Not Include

Airfare to Ushuaia, Argentina, and return; pre- or post-voyage expenses in Ushuaia; passport, visa, or Argentine Reciprocity fees; baggage, cancellation insurance and emergency medical evacuation insurance (required); alcoholic beverages; excess baggage charges; meals other than specified above; personal expenses such as laundry, telephone calls, faxes, internet, and e-mail service; and gratuities to shipboard personnel.

Trip Payment Schedule*

At time of reservation: 20% of trip cost
100 days prior to departure: Balance

*Please note that this differs from our regular catalog departures.

Cancellation and Transfer Fee Schedule*

Minimum fee: $750 per person
91-120 days prior to departure: 20% of trip cost
90 days or less: 100% of trip cost

*Please note that this differs from our regular catalog departures.

Lodging

Listed below are our signature accommodations for this trip. Although it is highly unlikely, we may make substitutions when necessary.

Arakur Ushuaia Resort and Spa

Arakur Ushuaia Resort and Spa

Ushuaia, Argentina
Day 1 (1 night)

Located on a natural balcony 800 feet above sea level inside the Cerro Alarkén Nature Reserve, the Arakur Ushuaia Resort and Spa is a member of the Leading Hotels of the World. It's surrounded by stunning panoramic views, native forests, natural terraces and green areas harmoniously integrated into the environment. Enjoy the spa, wander the trails, or unwind and soak in the surroundings.

View Image Gallery

Sea Spirit

Sea Spirit

Days 2 to 11 (10 nights)

One of the most spacious and luxurious expedition vessels in operation, the Sea Spirit carries a maximum of 114 guests in all outside-facing suites with marble-appointed bath facilities, picture window or portholes, walk-in-closet or wardrobe, in-room safe, refrigerator, and satellite telephone access. All cabins have TV/VCR and individually controlled thermostats. This outstanding expedition vessel offers two large lounges, fine dining, a hot tub, library, gym, and elevator access to all passenger levels. In addition to the team of guest lecturers, the Sea Spirit has a resident photographer to assist on deck and on shore. A fleet of sturdy inflatable landing crafts is used for shore excursions.

View Image Gallery

Extension Accommodations

If you would like to view the accommodations offered with our extensions option:

Trip Level

The trip is rated Level 1+, Easy. You will be travelling to a very remote destination. You must be able to complete on board safety drills and emergency evacuation procedures without the assistance of others. Rolling seas and windy conditions require you to be stable on your feet, especially when walking on slippery decks or up and down steep gangways. Shore excursions often require hiking over uneven terrain without the benefit of a developed trail. Some agility is required for getting in and out of the Zodiac landing crafts. Most Zodiac landings require that you step in the water to get ashore. Zodiac and shore excursions are weather permitting.

Explain Trip Level

Best time to go

October, November, Early December (late spring-early summer)

The pack ice begins to break up, creating new landscapes of sculpted ice and pristine icebergs with plenty of fresh snow. It’s mating season for the penguins and other birds with whole colonies in spectacular displays of courtship rituals. You’re also likely to witness nest building and egg tending. Adélie, Chinstrap and Gentoo penguins and other seabirds return to their breeding sites.

Mid December—January (full summer)

This are usually Antarctica’s warmest months—the height of the Austral Summer when the sun is up 18 to 20 hours a day. Longer days create great light conditions for fabulous photo opportunities. Wildlife in full swing as temperatures warm and activity levels rise. Penguin chicks are hatching, and you’ll likely see them chasing after any adult penguin that is carrying food. Whale sightings of baleen and toothed whales along the Antarctic Peninsula increase and seal pups can be sighted on the beaches. Some 30 days after hatching, penguin chicks can be found in “crèches,” resembling a nursery of sorts, which leaves both of their tired and hungry parents free to rest and hunt for food.

February—March (late summer)

Whale sightings are at their peak. Fur seals are increasingly common along the Peninsula and offshore islands. Penguin chicks begin to fledge, losing their fuzzy down and developing their adult plumage. In some breeding colonies parents are starting to abandon any remaining chicks, to go out to sea to feed and fatten up for their own molting stage.

Choosing the Right Trip

We work hard to help you choose the right trip for you, paying attention to your individual interests, abilities, and needs. If you have questions about the level of comfort or any of the activities described in this itinerary, please contact us.

Email Area Manager

References

We are proud to have an exceptionally high rate of repeat travelers. For more information, we would be happy to put you in touch with a client who has traveled with us.

Email Area Manager

Trip Extension

If you would like to lengthen and customize your adventure, we offer the following exciting trip extension:

mendoza argentina aconcagua peak wine vineyard

Mendoza Extension

Journey to the Heart of Argentina's Wine Capital

On this Argentina extension, explore Mendoza’s stunning landscapes, with visits to wine vineyards in Uco Valley, hikes in the Andes, and enjoy a traditional Argentine “asado.”

4 days from: $1995

Trip Level:

Client Comments

All of the lecturers were great—very knowledgeable, accessible, and gracious with their time.
— Barbara S., Chicago, IL
Our Lecturer had a relaxing personality and just the right dose of humor. His passion for the subject on whales (and just animals, in general) showed through and through.
— Theresa P., Cupertino, CA
This was a wonderful experience. The ship was terrific, and coming back to warm rooms and gourmet meals after a day of excursions in the Antarctic was special. I would highly recommend this trip.
— Phil H., Lowell, MA

Resources

Travel Insurance
WT Gear Store

What to Know Before You Go

PASSPORT

A valid passport is required for your trip. Be sure to check the expiration date. Your passport must be valid for six months after your date of exit from Argentina. In addition, we recommend your passport has at least two completely blank visa pages for every country you will be visiting. It is very important that the blank pages say “Visas” at the top. The last few pages of your passport, which say “Amendments and Endorsements,” and the final page of your passport, which may not have a page number, are not considered to be legitimate visa pages. You can request a new passport or have extra pages inserted in your current passport through a visa service agency or the US Passport Services Office. Be sure to allow sufficient time to acquire this before your trip.

It is a good idea to carry a photocopy of the photo page and the entry stamp page of your passport as an additional piece of identification, as well as two extra passport photos.

VISAS

US citizens do not need a visa for Chile and Argentina, but a Tourist Card is issued to visitors in Chile.

If you are a citizen of any country other than the US, check with a local consulate for entry requirements.

THE RIGHT CLOTHING FOR YOUR ADVENTURE

Since having the right clothing and gear is vital to the enjoyment of your trip to Antarctica, we have created the Wilderness Travel Gear Store in conjunction with our online retail partner, New Headings, to provide you with exceptional gear and apparel in a one-stop shop. They also provide waterproof layers for rent which can be delivered to you in Ushuaia.

Visit wildernesstravel.newheadings.com to begin shopping.  Be sure to check out our Get Ready Packages, which features 3 Polar Packages that provide excellent value for the gear necessary to keep you warm and dry.

Wilderness Travel donates all profits from your purchases to the cultural and conservation groups we support worldwide. See the projects we support on our Making a Difference webpage.

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