hebridean sky luxury marine mammals antarctica cruise

Marine Mammals

  • Overview

    Enjoy two nights at the exquisite Arakur Resort & Spa in Ushuaia.

    As the Antarctic summer comes to a close in March, migratory species like the Humpback are very active, socializing and feeding in preparation for the long journey ahead, while resident species like the Minke and Orca are also abundant. Each year we will partner with scientists doing cutting edge marine mammal studies for a special scientific voyage with our own Annette Bombosch, PhD. In March 2019, we collaborated with the world’s leading independent non-profit organization dedicated to ocean research, exploration, and education in the US, on a ground-breaking Humpback whale study.

    Budding Citizen Scientists will have ample opportunity to participate in marine mammal research, while photographers and videographers are busy capturing stunning images. This voyage also features all of the activities found in our standard Celebrating Antarctica itinerary.

    Duration: 15 days
    Passengers: 114 passengers
    Embarkation Point: Ushuaia, Argentina
    Disembarkation Point: Ushuaia, Argentina
    Physical rating: Soft Adventure
    Fly/Cruise: Cruise only
    Single Supplement: 0.0x - 2.0x twin rate or share options
  • Itinerary
    • Day 1 - Ushuaia

      Arrive in Ushuaia anytime today. Enjoy a complimentary stay at the beautiful Arakur Hotel & Resort. Explore the trails, take a spa, head into town, or relax and soak in the surroundings. Our optional evening briefing is a great opportunity for you to ask questions and to meet some of your fellow travelers. Enjoy a complimentary buffet breakfast in the morning.

    • Day 2 - Ushuaia - Free Day

      Today is all yours: explore some of the sights that Ushuaia has to offer, from museums to Argentinean leather markets, or continue relaxing at the lovely Arakur. Our optional evening briefing is a great opportunity for you to ask questions and meet some of your fellow travelers. All guests need to arrive at the hotel no later than the evening of day two.

    • Day 3 - Embarkation

      Today is the first day of our adventure. As we board the Hebridean Sky in Ushuaia, the world’s southernmost city at the tip of Argentina, and start to become familiar with ‘our home’ for the next 13 days we cannot help but wonder about the exciting journey ahead of us. In the early evening, we set sail and begin our voyage leaving behind Ushuaia and charting a course through the Beagle Channel.

    • Day 4/5 - Drake Passage

      Crossing the Drake Passage, there is so much excitement in the air as we make our way ever closer to the white continent. Guests eagerly soak up the friendly atmosphere onboard as our numerous Polar experts prepare us for our adventures with presentations on everything Antarctic, from wildlife to history. Eventually, we will cross the Antarctic Convergence where we will notice a distinct drop in temperature as we enter the waters of the Antarctic Ocean. Those keen in Citizen Science can take part in collecting salinity samples, wind and temperature readings along the way. On our sea crossing we will witness many spectacular sights from icebergs to an array of seabirds and even several whale species, some of which are known on occasion to fully breach from the sea.

    • Day 6/7 - Antarctica

      Exploring the South Shetland Islands, we may visit Half Moon Island with its stunning backdrop of mountainous and glaciated Livingston Island.  Or perhaps we will sail the ship into an active volcano with an opportunity to take a dip in the relatively balmy waters that surround Deception Island.  Bransfield Strait, once the site of an abandoned whaling station, gives us an excellent chance to see whales, who often return to its rich waters.

      In the waterways of the Antarctic Peninsula, our Expedition Leader, Captain, and Marine Mammal experts will create a flexible itinerary based on weather, ice, and previous sightings to maximize our whale watching opportunities, while also exploring some of the lesser travelled areas of the Peninsula.  We will aim for the most scenic bays and channels, with stops at penguin rookeries, seal wallows, bird colonies and whale feeding areas, as well as sites of historic and scientific interest.

    • Day 8/12 - Antarctica - The Future of the Antarctic Ecosystem

      Heading further South, we will be sure to explore the Gerlache Strait and its surrounding channels and islands. This may include trips to picturesque Neko Harbor, sheltered Paradise Harbor, the humpback favored Wilhelmina Bay, the striking Lemaire Channel, the wildlife-filled Penola Strait, or the majestic Neumayer Channel. We may stop at an active scientific base such as Poland’s Arctowksi or Ukraine’s Vernadsky as well as a historic base such as U.K.’s Port Lockroy or Wordie House.

      At this time of year, most areas have amazing marine mammal viewing opportunities with weddell and crabeater seals often found hauled out to rest along with predatory leopard seals and the assertive Antarctic fur seal. Minke and humpback whales are frequent visitors during this season and orca sightings are also common.

      All of our on-board experts will take part in a panel discussion on The Future of the Antarctic Ecosystem.

    • Day 13/14 - Drake Passage

      As we leave this magical place and make our way north, heading again across the Antarctic Convergence and the Drake Passage we have no doubt that time will be spent sharing and reflecting on the wonderful experiences of the last few days. Sailing down the Beagle Channel, we celebrate the conclusion of our Polar expedition at a special slideshow and dinner.

    • Day 15 - Ushuaia disembarkation

      As we arrive back in Ushuaia, it is time to say farewell to your crew and fellow travelers. Morning disembarkation lets you catch a flight to Buenos Aires or stay in Ushuaia for more sights and adventure. Please Note: Kayaking & Camping are available as Adventure Options on this voyage. Space for these activities is limited.

    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

    Kayaking

    To experience Antarctica up close and personal, there’s really no better seat than the one in your kayak, just inches above the water, navigating among icebergs and glacial ice dating back 30,000 years.

    Gliding through an otherworldly landscape with a small team, led by our expert guides and occasionally joined by a family of playful penguins or seals, this is about as intimate and magical as it gets.

    USD$ 895 per person

    Camping

    After a delicious dinner onboard, jump back in the Zodiacs and head ashore for a night of camping in Antarctica! Help to set up camp, and then enjoy the sounds of the waves, the creaking of the glaciers, perhaps even the blow of a passing whale. Warm and cozy in your sleeping bag under the midnight sun, you will be breathing the cleanest air in the most beautiful place on the planet. Get a taste of Antarctica as it was experienced by the early explorers, while knowing that in the morning you’ll enjoy a hot shower and a hearty breakfast back on board your luxurious vessel.

    USD$ 295 per person

    Whales

    Whale numbers swell in Antarctica over the southern summer. Arriving in Antarctica from November onwards, whale numbers reach their peak around December and January. Sightings and particularly breachings reach a pinnacle in February and March, when the Krill is closer to the surface. Some 10 species of whales are found in Antarctic water each summer, with the most abundant species being the Humpack.

    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.

  • Inclusions

    Expedition Gear

    The ship will provide you with expedition boots (on loan) and a specially designed expedition jacket, which is yours to keep at the end of your voyage.

    Wifi

    100 minutes of Wifi access is provided for use on your personal devices free of charge.

    Premium Suite Extras

    The Promenade, Deluxe, Penthouse and Owner Suites all receive champagne and chocolates on arrival and a complimentary mini-bar.

    Accommodation & Transfers

    Transfers are provided pre and post-cruise by the expedition team and one-night accommodation is provided on Day 1 of your itinerary at a Ushuaia hotel.

    Complimentary Pre-Arrival Day:
    Don’t sweat flight delays or missed connections when you begin your adventure a day early by taking advantage of our optional free pre-arrival night at the beautiful Arakur Hotel & Resort, a member of the Leading Hotels of the World. Enjoy the spa, wander the trails, or unwind and soak in the surroundings.

    Inclusions / Exclusions

    Included in your Expedition

    - Digital voyage log
    - All port & landing fees
    - House wine / beer or soft drink with dinner
    - Welcome & Farewell cocktail
    - Hot beverages
    - All excursions and lectures
    - All accommodation and meals on board

    Not included in your Expedition

  • Map
    Screen shot 2017 07 04 at 5.28.51 pm
  • Gallery
  • Vessel

    HEBRIDEAN SKY

    In the spring of 2016 our ship, Hebridean Sky, underwent a ten million dollar refit, transforming her into the safest and most comfortable ship in her class. Formerly known as the Sea Explorer, she has always been known for her effortless elegance, impeccable service and atmosphere of charm and camaraderie. Hebridean Sky continues that tradition, while adding a host of new amenities as well as state of the art stabilization, fuel efficiency, and upgraded communications systems. All suites and public spaces have been completely redecorated.

    Features & Facilities
    • Luxury expedition vessel
    • Newly refurbished
    • Large observation decks
    • Balcony Cabins
    • Single Cabins
    • Passenger elevator
    • Library with computers
    • Internet/Wifi
    • Bar/Lounge
    Key Facts
    Luxury star rating: 4
    Guests #: 118
    Crew #: 85
    Ice Class: 1C
    Speed: 17
    Refurbished:
    Technical Specs
    Year built:
    Length: 90m
    Width: 15
    Draft:
    Tonnage: 4200
    Registry: Bahamas
    Elec Outlets: 220V / 2 Round Pin
Check Voyage Dates, Pricing and Availability
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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.
hebridean sky triple suite

Triple Suite

26 Feb 2021 - 12 Mar 2021
A generous suite with twin beds and a sofa bed.
USD$ 10,995pp
USD$ 10,995pp
hebridean sky porthole suite

Porthole Suite

26 Feb 2021 - 12 Mar 2021
A generous Suite with twin or king bedding and private facilities.
USD$ 13,595pp
USD$ 13,595pp
hebridean sky window suite

Window Suite

26 Feb 2021 - 12 Mar 2021
A generous Suite with twin or king bedding and private facilities.
USD$ 15,495pp
USD$ 14,495pp
hebridean sky promenade suite

Promenade Suite

26 Feb 2021 - 12 Mar 2021
A generous Suite with twin or king bedding and private facilities.
USD$ 16,395pp
USD$ 15,145pp
hebridean sky deluxe suite

Deluxe Suite

26 Feb 2021 - 12 Mar 2021
Corner Suites with twin or king bedding and private facilities.
USD$ 16,795pp
USD$ 15,545pp
hebridean sky veranda suite

Veranda Suite with Balcony

26 Feb 2021 - 12 Mar 2021
An extremely comfortable Suite with twin or king bedding, private facilities and a balcony.
USD$ 17,295pp
USD$ 15,795pp
hebridean sky penthouse suite

Penthouse Suite with Balcony

26 Feb 2021 - 12 Mar 2021
An extremely comfortable Suite with twin or king bedding, private facilities and a balcony.
USD$ 19,995pp
USD$ 18,495pp
hebridean sky owner's suite

Owner's Suite with Balcony

26 Feb 2021 - 12 Mar 2021
The Owner's Suite features a separate sitting room, private bathroom and large balcony.
USD$ 21,595pp
USD$ 20,095pp