g expedition antarctic circle cruise over christmas and new years eve

Quest for the Antarctic Circle

  • Overview

    A massive rookery of penguins shuffles across a frozen shore; a pod of whales glides through frigid waters; dramatic landscapes float off in the distance – welcome to Antarctica.

    Join the G Expedition on an Antarctic cruise of discovery to our planet’s last frontier – a mysterious and virtually pristine paradise. Our ice-strengthened expedition ship is ideally suited to cruising this icy wilderness, and her expert staff are on hand to ensure you’ll fully appreciate all the majesty you encounter. Sail the Drake Passage past the South Shetland Islands, then really explore the western coast of the Antarctic Peninsula. Prepare yourself for an adventure like no other – more like a private expedition than a traditional cruise.

    Duration: 14 days
    Passengers: 130 passengers
    Embarkation Point: Ushuaia, Argentina
    Disembarkation Point: Ushuaia, Argentina
    Physical rating: Soft Adventure
    Fly/Cruise: Cruise only
    Single Supplement: 1.7x twin rate or share options
  • Itinerary
    • Day 1 - Ushuaia

      Arrive in Ushuaia at any time. Arrival transfer included. Enjoy the sights and sounds of the world's most southerly city.

      There will be a welcome desk in the lobby of the start hotel that will provide more specific information on the G Expedition and your upcoming adventure.

    • Day 2 - Ushuaia/Drake Passage; Embarkation Day

      Enjoy a free morning in Ushuaia. Do any last minute shopping, explore the town or the surrounding countryside. Embarkation on the G Expedition begins in the afternoon at the port in Ushuaia. Enjoy the evening sailing through the Beagle Channel.

      Expedition travel can be full of surprises! While it is our intention of adhere to the itinerary described below, there is a certain amount of flexibility built into the itinerary and on occasion it may be necessary, or desirable to make alterations. On the first day onboard, the Expedition Leader will give an expedition overview outlining what the specific plans are for the trip.

      Embarkation of the G Expedition
      In the afternoon, join your fellow passengers to take your group transfer and begin your journey on the G Expedition. Please refer to your welcome letter or the joining instructions posted in the lobby of the start hotel. Make sure you have your passport handy as you are about to embark on the adventure of a lifetime.

    • Day 3/4 - Drake Passage/South Shetland Islands

      The adventure begins with an 800km (497 mi) crossing of the passage named in honour of 16th-century English sea captain and privateer, Sir Francis Drake. The ship is at home in this part of the Southern Ocean. Enjoy daily lectures from the expedition team and keep an eye out for sightings of icebergs, whales, and albatross following in the Expedition's wake.

      The G Expedition is at home in this part of the Southern Ocean, known for the unimpeded never ending fetch of the winds that encircle the Antarctic.

      As the Expedition crosses the passage there will be time to become acquainted with the ship and frequent the common areas that include the lounge, dining hall, library and lecture hall where we meet our guides, ship’s crew and expedition staff.

      Begin lectures and information sessions to learn the extraordinary human and natural history of the Antarctic region.

      Daily lectures and educational program
      Attend lectures hosted throughout the day on everything from local wildlife to geology to history. The G Expedition has one of the highest ratios of expedition team members to guests – with one expert for every ten guests there is always someone on hand to answer questions and provide greater insight and appreciation of the world at its extremes. The expedition team is comprised of professional and highly skilled historians, marine biologists, and naturalists who offer keen insight and a unique personal perspective to each and every adventure.

    • Day 5/6 - South Shetland Islands/Antarctic Peninsula

      Encounter some of the region's unique wildlife and awe-inspiring scenery while setting foot on the Antarctic continent. Attempt two shore landings per day (weather permitting) and encounter gentoo, chinstrap, and Adélie penguin rookeries; Weddell, crabeater, and leopard seals; and orca, humpback, and minke whales in the cold Antarctic waters.

      This is what we've all been waiting for - a chance to step foot on the Great White Continent! Over the next four days the Expedition will navigate southwards making stops in the South Shetland Islands then through the Bransfield Strait and to the Antarctic Peninsula.

      Our goal is to attempt two excursions per day while navigating through the area but our itinerary and daily schedule will be based on the local weather and ice conditions.

      The peninsula also has a remarkable human history; during the voyage, learn about some of the most important and dramatic expeditions to this remote corner of the world.

      Zodiac Landings
      Hop into one of the Expedition’s 14 Zodiacs and take the quick, safe trip from the ship to the shore to encounter the awe-inspiring wilderness of Antarctica. Thanks to the performance of these boats in remote conditions, quick trips to shore are easily accomplished. Get up close to towering icebergs, glaciers and amazing wildlife. Depending on weather conditions these excursions will hopefully happen daily.

      Daily lectures and educational program
      Attend lectures hosted throughout the day on everything from local wildlife to geology to history. The G Expedition has one of the highest ratios of expedition team members to guests – with one expert for every ten guests there is always someone on hand to answer questions and provide greater insight and appreciation of the world at its extremes. The expedition team is comprised of professional and highly skilled historians, marine biologists, and naturalists who offer keen insight and a unique personal perspective to each and every adventure.

      Daily Briefings and Recaps on board the Expedition
      Learn about the Expedition’s current location, daily announcements, landing site-specific information as well as recaps of the previous day at a quick daily briefing.

      Polar Plunge
      You remembered to pack your bathing suit, right? Depending on weather conditions, opt to do the polar plunge and jump into the frigid waters of the Antarctic. Convince some of your fellow passengers to join and you’ll be left with an amazing group experience no one will ever forget!

    • Day 7/8 - Antarctic Peninsula/Antarctic Circle

      With a close eye on weather conditions, set off southward along the western coast of the Antarctic Peninsula. Passing colossal icebergs and countless colonies of penguins, push on with the goal in mind - crossing the Antarctic Polar Circle. Few travelers have ventured this far south, but with our fully equipped ice-strengthened vessel and favourable sea conditions, the Expedition can access many remote locations other ships just can't reach.

      Zodiac Landings
      Hop into one of the Expedition’s 14 Zodiacs and take the quick, safe trip from the ship to the shore to encounter the awe-inspiring wilderness of Antarctica. Thanks to the performance of these boats in remote conditions, quick trips to shore are easily accomplished. Get up close to towering icebergs, glaciers and amazing wildlife. Depending on weather conditions these excursions will hopefully happen daily.

      Daily lectures and educational program
      Attend lectures hosted throughout the day on everything from local wildlife to geology to history. The G Expedition has one of the highest ratios of expedition team members to guests – with one expert for every ten guests there is always someone on hand to answer questions and provide greater insight and appreciation of the world at its extremes. The expedition team is comprised of professional and highly skilled historians, marine biologists, and naturalists who offer keen insight and a unique personal perspective to each and every adventure.

    • Day 9/11 - Antarctic Circle/Drake Passage

      Turn north for the first time to continue exploring the Antarctic Peninsula and South Shetland Islands.

      Continue our exploration of the peninsula and the then into the South Shetland while moving North again. Keeping a close eye out for wildlife there might be opportunities to do some whale watching or even go for a polar plunge in the Southern waters.

    • Day 12 - Drake Passage

      Leave Antarctica and head north across the Drake Passage. In between bird watching and whale watching and enjoying some final lectures by the expedition staff, this is a chance to relax and review the adventures of the past week before returning to Ushuaia.

      Remember, the best way to experience the wildlife of the Drake Passage is to be on deck keeping a look out for Albatross, Prions and Whales!

    • Day 13 - Drake Passage/Ushuaia

      Begin your journey to your home port of Ushuaia. Review the highlights of your Antarctic experience with our lecturers and staff, and keep your eyes open on the observation deck for some last-minute whale sightings.

    • Day 14 - Ushuaia

      Disembark the Expedition after breakfast.

      Upon completion of disembarkation in Ushuaia, passengers will receive a complimentary transfer to either the airport or a central location where luggage can be stored.

      For those on morning flights, the transfer will bring them directly to Ushuaia airport (USH). The rest of the passengers will be transferred to the luggage storage point and given time to explore the city. These passengers should then return to retrieve their luggage and board a transfer to Ushuaia airport at 12:30pm or 4:30pm, depending on their flight times. Please note that the transfer times are subject to change according to flight schedules.

    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

    Camping

    Follow in the footsteps of bold explorers and experience this land’s awe-inspiring splendours first-hand. Our Antarctica camping experience includes time to enjoy the beauty of Antarctica near your campsite with ample photography options.

    USD$ 305 per person

    Kayaking

    If you're feeling mighty adventurous (we think that's likely) you can take on an additional challenge by considering a kayaking excursion in the Polar regions. Before you ask yourself why, let us ask "Why not?"

    USD$ 1,318 per person

    Cross the Antarctic Circle

    The moment you step foot into the circle, you’ll have a deep sense of wonder knowing you’ve just trodden where few have gone before. When you’re this far south, nature bares its secrets.

    Penguins

    Taking centre stage on your Antarctic Peninsula expedition, are the Brushtail penguin species. These photogenic and intriguing species include, Gentoo, Chinstrap and Adelie penguins. The species are in abundance across Peninsula and are always performing.

    On board voyages in our other details you may come across Rockhopper, Macaroni, Magellanic, King and Emperor penguins.

    Shoot to your shutter's content!

    For aspiring photographers, the best time to shoot the Antarctic landscape is definitely October, November and March. At these times the sun is much lower in the sky and thus creates beautiful twilight hues and shadows, which contrast the landscape magnificently.

    Of course, if it is wildlife and Antarctica’s babies you are hoping to shoot, then January and February are the best times. Alternatively, consider an early season South Georgia & Antarctica expedition for the best of wildlife and photo opportunities in Antarctica.

  • Inclusions

    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 hotel.

    Expedition Gear

    Comfortable expedition boots (USA sizes 6-16) and a high quality expedition parka. Specifically designed for the polar regions the expedition parkas feature; breathable waterproof fabric, 5cm Thinsulate liner, reflective taping, large storage pocket and cuff pocket.

    Inclusions / Exclusions

    Included in your Expedition

    - Lectures & educational programs
    - Zodiac excursions with our expert expedition team
    - Accommodation aboard the G Expedition

    Not included in your Expedition

    - Trip interruption / cancellation insurance
    - Travel medical insurance including medical repatriation (mandatory)
    - Medical expenses - fees / prescriptions / medications
    - Postage / telephone calls / email
    - Personal laundry
    - Soft drink and alcoholic beverages
    - Personal expenses
    - Pre & post cruise transfers and hotel
    - Airport taxes
    - Visa and passport fees
    - International & internal airfares
    - Gratuities
  • Map
    Screen shot 2017 07 04 at 5.29.08 pm
  • Gallery
  • Vessel

    G EXPEDITION

    The G Expedition provides an intimate small-ship cruising experience. Completely refurbished in 2009, she boasts spacious cabins, each featuring ocean-facing windows or portholes and private en-suite facilities. Large common areas and observation decks provide panoramic views of the distinctive landscapes of some of the world's most remote regions. The Expedition's spacious confines can hold up to 134 passengers. Many expedition cruise operators offer you a choice of space, comfort or expertise; the Expedition delivers all three at a price few can top. With a focus on safety, comfort and the unique demands of polar travel, the crew of the Expedition is committed to the ship’s continued safe operation.

    Features & Facilities
    • Recently refurbished
    • Lounge/Bar
    • Lecture room
    • Expedition mud room
    • Library
    • Computer room
    • Internet/Wifi
    • Gym
    • Sauna
    Key Facts
    Luxury star rating: 3
    Guests #: 130
    Crew #: 69
    Ice Class: 1B
    Speed: 15
    Refurbished: 2009
    Technical Specs
    Year built: 1972
    Length: 105m
    Width: 18
    Draft: 4
    Tonnage: 6334
    Registry: Liberia
    Elec Outlets: 220V / 2 Round Pin
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.
g expedition quad cabin antarctica cruise

Quadruple Porthole

08 Feb 2022 - 21 Feb 2022
Cabin features 2 x upper and 2 x lower bunks, porthole and private bathroom facilities.
USD$ 8,975pp
USD$ 8,975pp
g expedition triple cabin antarctica cruise

Triple Porthole

08 Feb 2022 - 21 Feb 2022
Cabin features 1 x upper bunk, 2 x lower bunks, porthole and private bathroom facilities.
USD$ 9,655pp
USD$ 9,655pp
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Twin Porthole

08 Feb 2022 - 21 Feb 2022
Twin cabin with porthole and private facilities. These cabins are among the best value Twin private cabins. But you'll have to be quick, there's only a few and they're always the first to go!
USD$ 10,669pp
USD$ 10,669pp
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Twin Window

08 Feb 2022 - 21 Feb 2022
Twin private cabin with lower bunks and a good size window.
USD$ 11,491pp
USD$ 11,491pp
g expedition twin superior cabin antarctica cruise

Superior Twin

08 Feb 2022 - 21 Feb 2022
Twin cabin with huge panoramic window and private facilities.
USD$ 12,783pp
USD$ 12,783pp
g expedition suite cabin antarctica cruise

Suite

08 Feb 2022 - 21 Feb 2022
Suites feature queen beds, separate living area with two-seater couch and armchair. Bathrooms feature misting showers. Get in quick to secure 1 of the 2 Suites which boast floor-to-ceiling windows.
USD$ 13,599pp
USD$ 13,599pp