This is one of the most spectacular Antarctic adventures ever! Deep in Antarctica's Weddell Sea is Snow Hill Island, home to a breeding colony of some 4,000 pairs of emperor penguins, the largest and most colorful penguins on the planet. Weather permitting, shipboard helicopters whisk us above the frozen sea to a base camp from where we head off on foot for fascinating encounters with these incredible creatures.
Arrive: Ushuaia, Argentina
Depart: Ushuaia, Argentina
Note: This trip is not exclusive to, nor operated by, Wilderness Travel, who acts solely as an agent in booking your reservation with the operator. Please download the Rate Sheet in the Dates & Pricing section to see the full pricing details and contact our Cruise Collection Specialists to check availability.
Scroll through our signature accommodations for this trip below. Although it is highly unlikely, we may make substitutions when necessary.
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.
Departure may vary depending on ice, weather, and wildlife conditions. Landings are subject to site availability, permissions, and environmental concerns per IAATO regulations. Official sailing plans and landing slots are scheduled with IAATO prior to the start of the season, but the Captain and Expedition Leader determines the final plan. Flexibility is paramount for this expedition cruises. The average cruising speed of the vessel is 10.5 knots. If ice conditions are favorable and the route to Snow Hill Island is free of multi-year pack ice, you have the chance for ship-to shore helicopter transfers to Snow Hill Island (roughly 45 minutes walking distance from the emperor penguin rookery). If successful, this is a once-in a lifetime experience. But please remember that nature writes the final itinerary out here.
In order to reach the Snow Hill Emperor Penguin rookery, participants must be able board a helicopter and and walk 45-60 minutes unassisted in snow to reach the penguin rookery and must be able to carry any gear you choose to bring with you (camera equipment, water, extra layers of clothing, etc.).
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. While several Zodiac landings are dry, many will require that you step in the water to get ashore. Zodiac and shore excursions are weather permitting.
Our Area Specialists know every detail about our tours. They will be happy to answer any questions and help you choose the journey that’s right for you. Contact us to learn more or book your trip today!
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With more than 200 different adventures to choose from, we want to help you find the trip that’s right for you. Our Trip Level system ranks each trip in two ways: a number rating from 1 to 6 according to the activity, and general travel rigors. 1 is the easiest and 6+ the most difficult.