greg mortimer antarctica cruise

Antarctic Explorer

  • Overview

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    FLY & SAIL THE DRAKE PASSAGE

    These Fly/Sail itineraries feature the best of Antarctica and allow for more exploration, with only one crossing of the Drake Passage. Get up close with iridescent icebergs, vast colonies of Adelie and gentoo penguins, as well as islands that are alive with leopard seals busy with courtship, bustling penguins and maybe feeding whales!

    Join international award-winning photographer, Scott Portelli, will be our photography guide on select Antarctic Explorer voyages in December 2020 and January 2021. 

    Expedition Highlights

    • Skip one or both Drake Passage crossings.
    • Gorgeous long summer days on the peninsula.
    • Zodiac cruise in search of feeding whales.
    • Experience polar diving and polar snorkelling with expert guides.
    • Tour scientific research stations and historic huts.

     

    In true expedition style we encourage exploration and adventure, offering flexibility in challenging environments in a way that puts you among the action to see and do as much as possible. This itinerary is only a guide and subject to change due to ice and weather conditions.

    Duration: 12 days
    Passengers: 120 passengers
    Embarkation Point: Ushuaia, Argentina
    Disembarkation Point: Punta Arenas, Chile
    Physical rating: Soft Adventure
    Fly/Cruise: Mandatory extra flight
    Single Supplement: 1.7x - 2.0x twin rate or share options
  • Itinerary
    • Day 1 - Ushuaia / Punta Arenas: Arrival day

      Arrive in Ushuaia where you’ll be met by an Aurora Expeditions representative and transferred to your downtown hotel. Enjoy rugged mountain scenery, lively cafes, restaurants and bars.

      Voyage Routes:
      16 Jan 2020 - Sail from Ushuaia / Fly from Antarctica
      25 Jan 2020 - Fly from Punta Arenas / Sail from Antarctica
      24 Feb 2020 - Fly from Punta Arenas / Fly from Antarctica

    • Day 2 - At sea

      After checking out of your hotel, enjoy free time exploring Ushuaia and surrounds. Embark the Greg Mortimer late afternoon and sail down wildlife-rich Beagle Channel.

    • Day 3/4 - At sea

      Photograph seabirds and swell of Drake Passage, marvel at first icebergs and landing in South Shetland Islands, spectacular scenery of Gerlache Strait.

    • Day 5/7 - Antarctic Peninsula

      From historic Port Lockroy to renowned Lemaire Channel, continental landings, and Zodiac cruising among icebergs in Antarctica’s heart.

    • Day 8/10 - Antarctic Peninsula

      Return north, searching for penguins, cormorants, and leopard seals on Hyrdurga Rocks, or visit volcanic Deception Island.

    • Day 11/12 - Departure day

      Landing on King George Island, home to scientific bases, board our flight to Punta Arenas, enjoying a final night stay in town.

      Please note:
      25 JAN 2020: Operates in reverse to the above itinerary.

      24 FEB 202: Skips the Drake Passage both ways, with a return flight to King George Island (included)

      Itineraries are subject to ice and weather conditions.

    Please consider that our voyages are expeditionary in nature. This means, that there are no concrete itineraries, your Captain and Expedition Leader will utilise their vast experience to chart the best course for your expedition depending on the climatic and environmental conditions. Mentioned highlights and wildlife cannot be guaranteed.

  • Adventure Activities

    Polar Scuba Diving

    To participate in our polar diving activity, all divers must be a trained, certified scuba divers with proof of certification beyond entry level, i.e. Advanced Diver certification or equivalent rating issued by a recognised scuba training organisation.

    In addition to this, it is extremely important that adequate training and experience is gained in dry-suit diving, and in the use of other new and unfamiliar equipment to be used in polar waters. To ensure your safety and enjoyment and to avoid any unnecessary problems on the trip, recent diving experience and proof of a minimum of 20 logged dives using a dry-suit is required prior to joining the voyage.

    USD$ 1,080 per person

    Polar Snorkelling - Greg Mortimer

    Greg Mortimer - Discover the underwater world of Antarctica and the Arctic!

    Witness wildlife and scenery unlike any other place on earth. Through crystal clear waters you'll discover the amazing mobility and speed of penguins entering and exiting from the ice, marvel at beautifully sculpted icebergs below the water and witness marine life such as crustaceans, isopods, starfish and nudibranchs!

    USD$ 640 per person

    Sea Kayaking

    One of the most exhilarating ways to experience Antarctica and the Arctic.

    The experience of sea kayaking in the humbling wilderness of Antarctica or the European Arctic is guaranteed to stir your soul. Paddle between brash ice and icebergs of all shapes and sizes, skim past penguin rookeries or under soaring bird cliffs, or drift quietly as you watch wildlife unobtrusively, absorbing the majestic scenery.

    USD$ 1,260 per person

    Antarctica's Babies

    During January and February Antarctica's babies are born and fledging, its a magical time as new
    life comes to Antarctica. The experience of seeing newly hatched penguins and seals pups just days old, is an
    experience that will last forever.

    Lemaire Channel – get your camera ready!

    In a continent of stunning views, Lemaire Channel has been called the Kodak Gap. Locked between the rocky vertical cliffs of Booth Island and the continent this one kilometer wide passage is one of the most photographed attractions of Antarctica. You will be glad your camera is digital.

    South Shetland Islands - Antarctica's Capital

    The South Shetland Islands are the undisputed capital of Antarctica, with some 12 different nations having research bases on the islands. Located on the very northern reaches of the Antarctic, the islands comprise of some of the Antarctic Peninsula prized sited, including; Elephant Island, Deception Island and Penguin Island. As the islands are further north, they are more temperate and thus home to large numbers of wildlife, the islands offer a great diversity of Antarctic landscape, geology and sights of interest including the King George Island airport and Russian Orthodox Church. For most cruises the islands will almost always be the first glimpse of Antarctica you will have from the decks of your expedition vessel.

    Fly/Cruise voyage

    Our Fly/Cruise programs an excellent choice to navigate the Drake Passage quickly. This expedition comprises of 1 or 2 charter flights across the Drake Passage, so you need not worry about crossing the passage by sea. These expeditions are great options and often allow for an increased amount of time around the continent.

  • Inclusions

    Expedition_Gear

    On board you will be provided with expedition boots and a highquality wind and waterproof expedition jacket

    Photography Workshops

    Catering to both amateurs and the more experienced photographers, our onboard team of photography guides deliver photography workshops and one-on-one instruction from the deck or Zodiacs and during landings.

    Charter Flight

    Your expedition on board the Greg Mortimer includes a charter flight to/from the ship.

    Inclusions / Exclusions

    Included in your Expedition

    - Entry and landing fees while on board
    - Port taxes and charges
    - Professionally produced voyage journal
    - Comprehensive pre-departure information
    - All shore excursions and lectures
    - All accommodation and meals on board

    Not included in your Expedition

    - Items of a personal nature such as; Beverages / Laundry / Medical expenses / Gratuities / Internet & Wifi
    - Travel insurance (mandatory)
    - Optional excursion and activities not included in the voyage itinerary
    - International and internal flights that are not specified
  • Map
    Screen shot 2017 07 04 at 5.23.27 pm
  • Gallery
  • Vessel

    GREG MORTIMER

    The Greg Mortimer, named after the Australian adventurer and Polar tourism pioneer (Greg Mortimer OAM), this unique vessel utilises some of the latest advancements in naval design & technology to revolutionise the small ship expedition cruising experience. The X-BOW makes sailing smoother and faster while protecting the vulnerable environments visited using a virtual anchoring system. Shore excursions are made easier, with four sea-level Zodiac loading decks & a specially-crafted activity platform, designed in close consultation with our world-renowned expedition & activity leaders. Unlike many new ships, the Greg Mortimer is not striving for absolute luxury. It will of course, be brand new, modern and comfortable in every way, but will stay true to a relaxed, comfortable and homely style of travel, purely focused on the expedition and destination. Ship Features: - Highly qualified and experienced expedition team and international crew - X-BOW® hull, designed to offer faster and more comfortable travel enabling the ship to pierce through waves and maintain speed of travel, lower fuel consumption and reduced air pollution emissions - All cabins feature twin or king bedding configuration and private bathroom. 80% of cabins include a private balcony. 60% of cabins can accommodate a third person - Purpose-built activities preparation areas including four Zodiac launching platforms for fast and safe transition off the ship as you embark on multiple daily excursions - Observation lounge and viewing platforms offer spectacular panoramic views of scenery and wildlife. - State-of-the-art lecture theatre, two hot tubs/plunge pools, art room, library, gym, wellness centre and more!

    Features & Facilities
    Key Facts
    Luxury star rating: 4
    Guests #: 120
    Crew #: 62
    Ice Class: 1A
    Speed: 12
    Refurbished:
    Technical Specs
    Year built: 2019
    Length: 104m
    Width: 18
    Draft: 5
    Tonnage: 7400
    Registry: Bahamas
    Elec Outlets: 220V 2 Round plug
Check Voyage Dates, Pricing and Availability
All available dates
Ready to book your expedition?

We understand that the trip of a lifetime takes planning, so we make the financial commitments easy to manage.

  • Confirm your booking today with just USD$ 1,000 per passenger.
  • Pay your 25% deposit 5 day later.
  • Final payment due 120 days prior to departure.
greg mortimer triple stateroom

Triple Stateroom

12 Feb 2021 - 23 Feb 2021
There are six Triple Stateroom cabins featuring portholes, all with private en-suites. Located on Deck 3, they're close to the mudroom and loading platforms.
USD$ 11,900pp
USD$ 11,900pp
greg mortimer twin stateroom

Stateroom Twin

12 Feb 2021 - 23 Feb 2021
The Greg Mortimer features eight Stateroom Twin cabins featuring portholes, all with private en-suites. Located on Deck 3, they're close to the mudroom and loading platforms, perfect for adventurers who are looking for a comfortable base that's close to the action.
USD$ 13,100pp
USD$ 13,100pp
greg mortimer balcony stateroom

Balcony Stateroom 'C'

12 Feb 2021 - 23 Feb 2021
With 58 rooms available, the Greg Mortimer's Balcony Staterooms are the most abundant cabin category on board. All include en-suite bathrooms, floor to ceiling windows and balconies and a select number are also connecting rooms, perfect for families or groups. Balcony Staterooms A, B & C vary slightly in size and position on the ship.
USD$ 13,900pp
USD$ 13,900pp
greg mortimer balcony stateroom

Balcony Stateroom 'B'

12 Feb 2021 - 23 Feb 2021
With 58 rooms available, the Greg Mortimer's Balcony Staterooms are the most abundant cabin category on board. All include en-suite bathrooms, floor to ceiling windows and balconies and a select number are also connecting rooms, perfect for families or groups. Balcony Staterooms A, B & C vary slightly in size and position on the ship.
USD$ 14,200pp
USD$ 14,200pp
greg mortimer balcony stateroom

Balcony Stateroom 'A'

12 Feb 2021 - 23 Feb 2021
With 58 rooms available, the Greg Mortimer's Balcony Staterooms are the most abundant cabin category on board. All include en-suite bathrooms, floor to ceiling windows and balconies and a select number are also connecting rooms, perfect for families or groups. Balcony Staterooms A, B & C vary slightly in size and position on the ship.
USD$ 14,500pp
USD$ 14,500pp
greg mortimer balcony suite

Balcony Suite

12 Feb 2021 - 23 Feb 2021
With a bit more room to stretch the legs, the Greg Mortimer's two Balcony Suites are perfect for polar adventurers who travel with plenty of gear. Featuring private balconies, en-suite bathrooms and a comfortable desk area, these will sell out quickly! Suite Cabin Inclusions: * Free pair of binoculars per suite. * 1-hour spa treatment (per person). * Free stocked mini bar. - Balcony Suites and Junior Suites stocked once only, not replenished. - Captain Suite – replenished. * Gratuities/tips for crew included. * 1 free bottle of champagne.
USD$ 17,600pp
USD$ 17,600pp
greg mortimer single stateroom

Stateroom Single

12 Feb 2021 - 23 Feb 2021
The Greg Mortimer features eight Stateroom Twin cabins featuring portholes, all with private en-suites. Located on Deck 3, they're close to the mudroom and loading platforms, perfect for adventurers who are looking for a comfortable base that's close to the action.
USD$ 19,650pp
USD$ 19,650pp
greg mortimer junior suite

Junior Suite

12 Feb 2021 - 23 Feb 2021
The Greg Mortimer's four Junior Suites take in some impressive scenery from their vantage points on Deck 7. When you aren't enjoying a landing, you can relax in the suites' separate lounge area, or just watch the world float by from the private balcony. Suite Cabin Inclusions: * Free pair of binoculars per suite. * 1-hour spa treatment (per person). * Free stocked mini bar. - Balcony Suites and Junior Suites stocked once only, not replenished. - Captain Suite – replenished. * Gratuities/tips for crew included. * 1 free bottle of champagne.
USD$ 20,900pp
USD$ 20,900pp
greg mortimer owner's suite

Captain's Suite

12 Feb 2021 - 23 Feb 2021
The largest of all our rooms, the Greg Mortimer's singular Captain's Suite will take you to the polar regions in ultimate style and comfort. Complete with large lounge area, balcony, walk-in wardrobe and en-suite, you'll need to get in early to secure this suite. Suite Cabin Inclusions: * Free pair of binoculars per suite. * 1-hour spa treatment (per person). * Free stocked mini bar. - Balcony Suites and Junior Suites stocked once only, not replenished. - Captain Suite – replenished. * Gratuities/tips for crew included. * 1 free bottle of champagne.
USD$ 24,300pp
USD$ 24,300pp