Antarctica Discovery

January 11 - 22, 2024

Length: 12 days

Region(s): Antarctica

Activity Level: Activity indicator paw

Type: Cruise, Ocean Cruise

Journey through the vast beauty of the White Continent, featuring pristine polar wilderness, abundant wildlife, and spectacular scenery. Visitors to Antarctica find inspiration and perspective among elemental forces of ice, snow, water, and rock, and become a part of the story of discovery.

Operated by Orbridge

Tour Highlights

Explore the South Shetland Islands and the Antarctic Peninsula, a beautiful island chain filled with an impressive variety of wildlife.
Cruise aboard the perfect vessel for exploration. Ocean Victory’s inverted bow quickens the Drake Passage crossing as it slices through waves, reducing rolling by 80%—and helping to prevent possible seasickness. The ship is environmentally friendly onboard, with an implementation of the Green Initiative Program, ensuring both absolute comfort and sustainability. 83% of Ocean Victory’s cabins feature private observation decks.
Enjoy the company and keen insights of expert expedition guides, scientists, and lecturers throughout the journey.
Explore at your own pace, with numerous passenger landings and discoveries throughout the voyage, aided by a nimble ﬂeet of Zodiacs and knowledgeable guides.
Join the optional Polar Camping excursion ($350 per person, subject to change; limited availability and weather permitting). With specialized performance gear and expert guidance, prepare for an evening beneath the austral firmament. Campers sleep unsheltered in a cozy bivy sack for the utmost connection to the environment—as hearty explorers have done in years past. Please book on the ship.
Join the optional Sea Kayaking excursion ($250 per person, subject to change; limited availability and weather permitting). This is a one-time opportunity to explore the outstanding grandeur and magical beauty of the polar regions using a kayak. Participants must have prior kayaking experience. Please book on the ship.
Take advantage of the ship’s impressive amenities, including two hot tubs, spa, gym, lounges, outdoor bar, and interactive dining experience.
If you are interested in more information about this trip, please click on the “Reserve Now” button to be taken to the Orbridge website.

* Cal lecturer’s participation cannot be guaranteed and is contingent upon a minimum number of paying travelers.

Activity Level 3

What to expect: These trips feature long touring days with travel via motor coach, ship, zodiac, all-terrain vehicle, or train. Travelers are required to board transportation without assistance as well as stand and walk over uneven terrain for extended periods of time. Some tours may include optional higher-intensity activities and travel at higher altitudes with steep ascents and descents. Outings last four to six hours most days.

Suitable for: Travelers who are able to comfortably walk four to six miles, or 6,900–9,200 steps, each day.

Itinerary at a Glance

Day 1: En Route from U.S.
Day 2: Arrive Ushuaia, Argentina
Day 3: Ushuaia – Embarkation
Days 4-5: Drake Passage
Days 6-9: South Shetland Islands / Antarctic Peninsula
Days 10-11: Drake Passage
Day 12: Ushuaia – Disembarkation / Depart for U.S.
NOTE: Itinerary may change due to local conditions.
NOTE: Travel time from/to U.S. may take up to two days depending on flight schedules.