antarctica travel

Antarctica onboard the G Expedition

Antarctica

When the word "Antarctica" is uttered, what springs to mind? Perhaps it's the electrifying anticipation of uncovering something truly extraordinary for the very first time. We're intimately familiar with that sensation, yet we're also acutely aware of the challenges involved in reaching this pristine continent, coupled with the scarcity of affordable options. Fear not, for we hold the key.

Enter G Expedition, a trailblazer in Antarctic cruising, offering a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to realize your wildest dreams. With an unwavering commitment to guest satisfaction, we curate itineraries that cater to a spectrum of preferences, spanning in complexity, duration, and activities. Join us as we delve into the myriad offerings of G Expedition, from our most sought-after journeys to the enriching experiences that await you along the way.

Embarking on an Antarctic Odyssey: A Closer Look 

Whether you're a seasoned adventurer or a novice, navigating the uncharted territories of Antarctica necessitates meticulous planning. That's precisely why our team of polar aficionados has meticulously outlined the highlights awaiting you on our Antarctic excursions.

Heading into the Heart of Earth’s Last Frontier 

Where does this odyssey to the edge of the world commence, you may wonder? Depending on the duration of your voyage, your expedition sets sail from either Ushuaia, Argentina (spanning 11 to 20 days) or Montevideo, Uruguay (lasting 20 to 23 days). 

Your journey commences with a warm reception at your designated hotel, where a helpful assistance desk awaits, affording you the opportunity to explore the town or indulge in some last-minute shopping. Boarding takes place in the afternoon, allowing you to savor the spectacle of the sun setting over the picturesque Beagle Channel. Following a briefing by our seasoned expedition leader, the vessel charts its course across the legendary Drake Passage. As you traverse the 800-kilometer expanse, expect daily updates and captivating lectures on wildlife, geology, and history, fully immersing yourself in the spirit of Shakleton’s legacy.

The G Expedition embarks on a southerly trajectory, making port calls at the South Shetland Islands and the Bransfield Strait before reaching the Antarctic Peninsula. A flexible itinerary ensures an adaptive experience, tailored to local weather conditions and ice dynamics. Moreover, extended cruises departing from Montevideo afford the opportunity to explore the Falkland Islands, South Georgia, and the South Orkney Islands.

As the return journey across the Drake Passage unfolds, ample time is devoted to birdwatching and whale spotting, culminating in a chance to reflect on the week's adventures. Upon disembarking in Ushuaia, complimentary transfers to the airport or central locations are provided, accommodating diverse flight schedules.

Regardless of the chosen itinerary, expect extraordinary wildlife sightings, postcard-perfect moments at Port Lockroy, and the breathtaking beauty of the Lemaire Channel — a photographic paradise in the heart of Antarctica. 

Small Ship, Huge Impressions

Having undergone a complete refurbishment in 2009, the ship perfectly combines space, comfort, and expertise at a great value. With a capacity of just 134 passengers and 69 crew members, it has everything an explorer might need on their first Antarctica trip. 

Thanks to comfortable, spacious cabins, ocean-facing windows, and large common areas on the ship, you get to witness Antarctica in all its beauty. Imagine cutting through icy waters, where the elements reign supreme and nature’s grandeur knows no bounds, surrounded by giant glaciers and curious orcas.

Although the ship is an expedition vessel, it provides all the amenities needed. You can unwind in the lounge/bar, maintain your well-being at the onboard gym, or warm up after a long day of exploration in the sauna. In case you are not that keen on saunas, you can always come back to the comfort of your room with private en-suite facilities. Moreover, on snowy days, you can enjoy a book from our library or stay connected in the computer room with Internet/Wi-Fi access. 

Before every excursion you will be welcomed to attend informative lectures and weather updates in the dedicated room, and prepare for excursions in the expedition mud room where you can find your expedition gear. 

G Expedition generously equips each guest with premium parkas, ensuring both comfort and warmth throughout the Antarctic voyage. These high-quality parkas are yours to keep as a memento of the journey's adventures. Moreover, our commitment extends beyond guest comfort; we prioritize Antarctica's environment. To minimize our ecological footprint, comfortable and sustainable expedition boots are seamlessly provided, enhancing your overall comfort while contributing to the preservation of the pristine Antarctic landscape.

Also, our team of professionals ensures your well-being both on the vessel and during onshore excursions. Activities presented by expert historians, marine biologists, and naturalists are designed to show the true beauty of this place. Exclusive and eye-opening!

Zodiac Cruises and Shore Landings

The ship's 14 Zodiacs facilitate daily shore landings, offering encounters with penguin rookeries, seals, and breathtaking Antarctic landscapes. Just imagine as you step off the ship onto a Zodiac, gliding through pristine waters, and feeling the chilling breeze on your face.

The Antarctica trip doesn’t end there – shore landings reveal a new side of this magical continent, making each moment a truly unique adventure. Walking the barely touched paths and capturing Gentoo, Chinstrap, and Adélie penguin rookeries. Ensure your camera has enough battery because you’ll want to capture every moment of your Antarctica expedition! 

Lectures from Professionals For You to Better Understand What You See

Considering how unique the destination is, it is important to understand not only the dos and don’ts of visiting this place but also what to expect in terms of wildlife and weather. But the idea of spending hours searching for information about a place so unreachable might seem quite daunting to say the least. That’s why our crew consists of Antarctic experts who are on board with you all the time, ensuring a seamless and enriching experience.

Our team of professionals not only assists you in acclimating to extreme weather conditions but also deliver interesting lectures to enrich your experience during the expedition. With a commitment to your safety and satisfaction, the ship ensures one specialist for every 10 guests, guaranteeing personalized attention and addressing all your inquiries related to Antarctica.

They give plenty of insights into the region's history, geology, and wildlife, adding a new layer of educational enrichment to your voyage. Whether you're a history buff or a wildlife enthusiast, these lectures deepen your connection to Antarctica, making each expedition a captivating learning experience.

Kayaking, Camping and More Adventure Activities

For those seeking a more immersive and extreme experience, G Expedition offers kayaking trips in the Antarctic wilderness. Picture paddling through towering mountains of ice, sunk deep into the water, and every sound you make echoes in the freezing silence. Every aspect of this icy frontier has something new and thrilling to offer. 

Under the supervision of our experienced crew members, you'll receive guidance on spotting and interacting responsibly with marine life. This optional experience offers an extraordinary opportunity to get up close to seals and the crystal clear waters of Antarctica. Available for an additional cost of $1,325 USD ($1,949 AUD) per person, it promises unforgettable encounters with nature's wonders.

If you want to fully merge into the expedition life you can camp under the pristine polar sky with penguins waddling nearby and seals resting on the icy shores. This optional experience, available for an additional $393 USD ($579 AUD) per person, brings a genuine, personal connection to the vast, untouched beauty of Antarctica, creating unique memories.

To make your journey truly immersive, our team offers polar plunges. Depending on weather conditions, you can dive into the crystal-clear water. A true test of your character!

In case you are looking for more tame activities, you can always savor the rare pleasure of Antarctic ice in your whiskey or water—a unique offering onboard. No need to leave the comfort of G Expedition to taste the pristine iced waters. 

Finally, if you want to truly capture the essence of this continent, our crew members can provide you with exclusive tips and location suggestions for taking pictures. 

Exploring the Itineraries

After we talked about the destinations, activities, and means of transportation, it’s time for you to start planning your next trip to Antarctica! All trips listed below are carried out by G Expedition, prices are correct as of February 2024 and depend upon the duration and type of cabin you would like to stay in. So let's delve into the details.

1. To Begin Your Antarctic Adventure Tours

First time to Antarctica? You might want to start with the Antarctica Classic journey, which is priced starting from $7,235 USD ($10,640 AUD) per person. During this trip, you will visit iconic landmarks like the South Shetland Islands, the Bransfield Strait, the Antarctic Peninsula, and more! 

Additionally, note that zodiac excursions and shore landings are already included in the price.

2. For Travellers Looking for a Longer Antarctica Voyage

For the avid explorers, the Antarctica Classic In Depth itinerary goes beyond the usual, offering an extended exploration of the Antarctic Peninsula. With a 13-day cruise, you will immerse yourself in the ethereal scenery and quirky wildlife, with added time for kayaking and additional shore landings. It's a comprehensive Antarctic experience for those hungry for more; prices start from $7,881 USD ($11,590 AUD) per person. 

3. Looking For an Antarctica Adventure Cruise? 

Speaking of expeditions, Quest for the Antarctic Circle offers a 14-day expedition style voyage rather than a traditional cruise. Starting at $9,690 USD ($14,250 AUD) pp, this cruise presents the opportunity to venture beyond the Antarctic Polar Circle and explore the South Shetland Islands before crossing the Drake Passage again. 

4. Expedition Trips Antarctica for Wildlife lovers

If you have a little more time to explore, this 22-day Falkland Is, South Georgia, and Antarctic Islands journey is a perfect choice. This itinerary provides diverse experiences, from exploring historical sites and witnessing the world's largest King Penguin population together with other endemic wildlife in South Georgia to camping and kayaking. Many travelers deem South Georgia the highlight of their trip. Considering the length, the price starts from $13,049 USD ($19,190 AUD) pp, yet it may vary depending on the dates.

5. Fan of Shackleton?

To recreate the journey of legendary explorer Sir Ernest Shackleton, a polar expedition cruise named in his honour Spirit of Shackleton may be perfect for you. With this itinerary, you will spend 21 days on a journey experiencing the breathtaking landscapes and wildlife of the Antarctic Peninsula. It’s the ultimate bundle combining incredible history, adventure, diverse itinerary, challenging route, and moderate prices starting from $16,667 USD ($24,510 AUD) per person.

A Call to Adventure

Antarctica expeditions await those with a spirit of adventure and a yearning for the extraordinary. With years of experience and a diverse set of cruises and expeditions, G Excpedition is a trusty choice to create memories that will last a lifetime. 

So, why wait? Feel free to delve into Antarctic expeditions onboard the G Expedition, explore itineraries and view cabin pricing and availability, and start planning your adventure today! 

Not sure which trip suits you best? Don't worry! Our friendly Antarctica specialists are here to help. Just ask, and we'll happily guide you, narrowing down options based on your personal preferences.

Our team is available by phone or live chat during weekdays from 8 am to 8 pm AEST and weekends from 8 am to 6 pm AEST. Contact us at 1800 960 577 (Australia), +61 7 3150 4017 (International), or 888 308 4904. Alternatively, you can reach us via email at info@iexpedition.com.

 Antarctica awaits, and the adventure of a lifetime is just a click away.