Polar Circle Quest | RMS ST Helena | IExpedition

Polar Circle Quest

  • Overview

    Embark on an expedition cruise to the Antarctic Peninsula, beyond the Polar Circle, and the South Shetland Islands, filled with thrilling adventure activities.

    Aboard the St Helena, discover the untouched beauty and exhilarating challenges of the White Continent. This 12-day voyage promises stunning landscapes, exceptional wildlife encounters, and the chance to dive into adventure with activities such as kayaking, snowshoeing, and zodiac cruises.

    Duration: 12 days
    Passengers: 98 passengers
    Embarkation Point: Ushuaia, Argentina
    Disembarkation Point: Ushuaia, Argentina
    Physical rating:
    Fly/Cruise: Cruise only
    Single Supplement: 2.0x twin rate or share options
  • Itinerary
    • Day 1 - Ushuaia, Argentina

      Board the expedition vessel in the afternoon, where you'll meet your crew and fellow travellers. After settling into your cabin, the ship sets off along the picturesque Beagle Channel. Relish your first evening at sea as the southernmost tip of South America disappears from view.

    • Day 2/3 - Crossing the Drake Passage

      Cross the legendary Drake Passage, named after Sir Francis Drake. This biologically rich region, where cold polar waters meet warmer currents, supports a thriving ecosystem that attracts seabirds such as albatrosses, petrels, and shearwaters.

      Take advantage of your ship’s open bridge policy, joining the officers to learn about navigation, scan for whales, or simply enjoy the vast horizon. Meanwhile, the lecture team will share insights into Antarctica’s history, geology, and wildlife.

      By Day 3, the first sight of the South Shetland Islands will appear—remote islets first discovered in 1819 by Captain William Smith. Weather permitting, you may step ashore for your first encounters with penguins and seals.

    • Day 4/9 - Exploring the Antarctic Peninsula & Venturing below the Antarctica Circle

      Explore the wonders of the Antarctic Peninsula and South Shetland Islands, where towering icebergs, pristine glaciers, and dramatic landscapes define the ultimate polar wilderness.

      Adventure Highlights:

      Kayaking: Paddle through serene, icy waters, surrounded by sculpted icebergs, curious seals, and diving penguins.
      Snowshoeing: Trek across snowy ridges and glacial terrains to reach stunning viewpoints.
      Zodiac Cruises: Navigate ice-filled waters for close-up views of wildlife and ice formations.

      Scenic Waterways:
      Sail through some of Antarctica’s most iconic passages, such as the Gerlache Strait, Errera Channel, and Lemaire Channel, often referred to as the "Kodak Gap" for its spectacular scenery.

      With over 500 diverse landing sites along the Antarctic Peninsula, no two voyages are ever the same. Our expert team crafts each expedition based on conditions, weather, and opportunities for the most remarkable encounters. As passenger vessel traffic has increased in recent years, competition for landing sites has intensified—but our deep knowledge of this pristine region ensures you’ll embark on true exploratory journeys, venturing beyond the crowds.

      Guided by our experienced crew, you’ll navigate breathtaking ice-choked channels, witness towering glaciers, and encounter extraordinary wildlife in one of the most remote places on Earth. This is not just a cruise—it’s a genuine expedition where spontaneity and discovery define every day.

      Join us for an adventure where the unknown awaits, and every landing is a moment of exploration.

      Wildlife enthusiasts will be thrilled by close encounters with Adélie, Gentoo, and Chinstrap Penguins, as well as crabeater, Weddell, and leopard seals. Keep an eye out for Minke, humpback, and orca whales feeding in the nutrient-rich waters. This journey sets the compass south, aiming for the elusive Polar Circle – a true expedition for explorers.

    • Day 10/11 - Crossing the Drake Passage

      Say goodbye to the icy wilderness as we embark on our return journey across the Drake Passage. Reflect on the incredible sights and adventures of the past days. Attend final lectures and workshops or unwind on deck, keeping an eye out for seabirds and marine life. Conclude your Antarctic expedition with a farewell dinner on the final evening.

    • Day 12 - Return to Ushuaia

      Arrive back in Ushuaia in the early morning. After breakfast, disembark with cherished memories of an epic Antarctic expedition and new stories to tell.

    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
  • Inclusions
    Inclusions / Exclusions

    Included in your Expedition

    - Crew Tips/ Gratuities
    - Wi-Fi: Basic Wi-Fi complimentary; upgrades available for a fee.
    - Port Fees: Includes port surcharges, permits, and landing fees.
    - Pre-departure Info: Comprehensive materials and an Antarctic booklet.
    - Expedition Equipment: Loaned muck boots and access to the onboard doctor and medical clinic.
    - Lectures: Educational talks and expert guiding services.
    - Expedition Team: Led by experienced guides.
    - Adventure Activities: Kayaking, Snowshoeing, Camping, Yoga (Subject to weather and operational conditions)
    - Shore Excursions: Guided walks, daily shore excursions, and Zodiac cruises.
    - Meals: Daily meals, snacks, tea, coffee, and house beer, soda, and wine during lunch and dinner.
    - Accommodation: Fully serviced cabins.

    Not included in your Expedition

  • Map
    Polarcirclemap
  • Gallery
  • Vessel

    St Helena is a British-built, ice-strengthened expedition ship, originally serving remote communities and extensively refurbished in 2022. Operating with Terra Nova Expeditions, she accommodates 98 guests, offering spacious, modern cabins with ocean views and ensuite bathrooms, including options for singles, families, and groups.

    Designed for Antarctic and South Atlantic exploration, she features open decks, panoramic observation lounges, expedition-ready facilities, a full science lab, two Jacuzzis, gym, spa, and a full suite of adventure activities. Her expert crew provides guided excursions such as zodiac cruises, landings, sailing, camping, and kayaking, combining adventure, comfort, and scientific contribution.

    St Helena blends maritime heritage with modern comfort, making her a unique and versatile platform for immersive polar and remote-region expeditions.

    Features & Facilities
    • Gym
    • Jacuzzi
    • Spa
    Key Facts
    Luxury star rating:
    Guests #: 98
    Crew #: 81
    Ice Class: 1C
    Speed: 14
    Refurbished: 2022
    Technical Specs
    Year built: 1989
    Length: 105m
    Width: 94
    Draft:
    Tonnage: 7
    Registry: United Kingdom
    Elec Outlets:
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.
quad cabins st helena

Discovery Quad Cabin

14 Feb 2027 - 25 Feb 2027
The Quad Cabins located on Deck “A” and feature a desk, a window, two bunk beds (pullman style) and en-suite bathroom
USD$ 10,980pp
USD$ 10,980pp
discovery triple cabin st helena

Discovery Triple Cabin

14 Feb 2027 - 25 Feb 2027
The Triple Cabins located on Deck “A” and feature a desk, a window, a bunk (pullman style) and one single bed and en-suite bathroom.
USD$ 11,910pp
USD$ 11,910pp
odyssey single cabin st helena

Odyssey Single Cabin

14 Feb 2027 - 25 Feb 2027
The Odyssey Single Cabins located on the Boat Deck and feature a desk, a window, an en-suite bathroom and one single bed.
USD$ 13,140pp
USD$ 13,140pp
odyssey twin cabin st helena

Odyssey Twin Cabin

14 Feb 2027 - 25 Feb 2027
The Odyssey Twin Cabins located on Decks “A” and “B” and feature a desk, a window, one bunk bed (pullman style) and an en-suite bathroom.
USD$ 13,140pp
USD$ 13,140pp
superior cabin st helena

Superior Cabin

14 Feb 2027 - 25 Feb 2027
The Superior Cabins located on Decks “A” and “B” measure approximately 14 - 16 square metres and feature a desk, a window, two single beds and an en-suite bathroom. Superior Cabins on deck B feature a slightly larger size and a sofa bed and porthole (instead of window).
USD$ 14,250pp
USD$ 14,250pp
deluxe cabin st helena

Deluxe Cabin

14 Feb 2027 - 25 Feb 2027
The Deluxe Cabins located on the Promenade Deck and feature a desk, a window, an en-suite bathroom and one double (King-sized) or two single beds.
USD$ 15,990pp
USD$ 15,990pp
premium cabin st helena

Premium Cabin

14 Feb 2027 - 25 Feb 2027
The Premium Cabins located on the Promenade Deck and feature a desk, a window, an en-suite bathroom and one double (King-sized) or two single beds.
USD$ 17,470pp
USD$ 17,470pp
owner’s suite st helena

Owner’s Suite

14 Feb 2027 - 25 Feb 2027
The spacious Owner’s Suites located on the Boat Deck and feature a seating area, a meeting area, en-suite bathroom, walk in closet and one double (King-sized) bed.
USD$ 19,120pp
USD$ 19,120pp