Highlights of Antarctica

• Return international full-service flights (economy class), departure city surcharges may apply
• Return charter flights between Buenos Aires & Ushuaia

• 10-night Antarctica cruise aboard Hurtigruten's expedition ship 'MS Fridjof Nansen'
• Spend 5 days in Antarctica with multiple small group Zodiac landings & activities at numerous spectacular locations
• House beer & wine, sodas and mineral water included in Restaurants Aune & Fredheim while cruising
• Complimentary tea and coffee 
• Complimentary Wi-Fi on board
• English-speaking Expedition Team who organise and accompany activities on board and ashore 

• 3 nights 4-star hotel accomodation in Buenos Aires

• 33 meals including daily breakfast and all meals while cruising
• House beer & wine, sodas and mineral water included in Restaurants Aune & Fredheim while cruising

• Airline and cruises taxes and surcharges included

• All transfers included

• Arrive Early: Arrive up to 30 days before your tour starts. (Does not include hotel accommodation, meals or transfers)
• Stay Behind: Return up to 30 days after your tour concludes. (Does not include hotel accommodation, meals or transfers)
• Stopover Packages: Break up the long-haul flight with a stopover at a fantastic location. (See checkout for details)
• Cabin Upgrades: Cabin upgrades are available. (See checkout for details)
• Flight Upgrades: Upgrade to Business Class. (See checkout for details)

Please note: Extra charges may apply. See the Important Info section and checkout cart for fees and details.

Bon voyage!
Today, at the appropriate time, make your own way to the airport to board your flight to Buenos Aires, the first stop on your journey to Antarctica!
Welcome to beautiful Argentina. Upon arrival, you will be met and transferred to your centrally located hotel.
Due to flight times and scheduling some customers may be required to depart Day 0. Flight times will be confirmed on your final documentation which you will receive at least 4-6 weeks prior to departure.

Overnight: Hotel Grand Brizo, Buenos Aires, Argentina (or similar)

Meals included: In-Flight

This morning be transferred from the hotel to the airport for your early morning flight to Ushuaia where a hybrid-powered state-of-the-art Hurtigruten expedition ship awaits. This port city competes with Chilean Puerto Williams for the coveted title of the southernmost city in the world. The Martial Glacier sits north of the city, creating an impressive mountain backdrop for what many refer to as the ‘end of the world’.
After a mandatory health and safety meeting on board the ship, kick off your journey with a welcome dinner hosted by the Expedition Team. You can then spend some time getting to know the ship that will be home for the next eleven days.

Overnight: Hurtigruten ‘MS Fridtjof Nansen’

Meals included: Breakfast; Lunch; Dinner

The ship will cross the infamous Drake Passage, named after the English sea captain and privateer Sir Francis Drake who discovered it by chance in 1578. Since there is no landmass at this latitude, wind and water roam freely, making it hard for some ships to sail here. But don’t worry, even the ‘Drake Shake’ isn’t a big deal for Hurtigruten's ultra modern expedition ships.
It takes two days to cross the roughly 1000-km-wide Drake Passage, which gives you time to get ready for your Antarctic adventure. The Expedition Team will start their lecture programme in the on board Science Centre, drawing on decades of experience in Antarctica to teach you how to make your visit as safe and as sustainable as possible. As per IAATO guidelines, once you begin venturing on land you will all wear sterilised rubber boats when ashore and ensure to vacuum your clothing beforehand to remove any possible foreign contaminants. You will also learn about the various hands-on ‘Citizen Science’ projects that you can get involved in, such as collecting samples and data or whale counting and cloud observation. All of which feed into live research and current science.
The stylish Hurtigruten expedition ship is waiting to be explored, quite literally. Work out in the indoor or outdoor gym or order a spa treatment in the Wellness Area. There are also three superb restaurants on board where you can enjoy delicious meals that are a treat for your eyes and your taste buds. But even with all these mod cons, don’t forget to head out on deck from time to time to look for the first icebergs, and to spot wildlife like whales, dolphins and numerous types of seabirds including petrels and albatross.

Overnight: Hurtigruten ‘MS Fridtjof Nansen’

Meals included: Breakfast; Lunch; Dinner

Overnight: Hurtigruten ‘MS Fridtjof Nansen’

Meals included: Breakfast; Lunch; Dinner

Land ho! Welcome to Antarctica. For the next 5 days, surrounded by icy waters, looming glaciers and icebergs as big as cathedrals could make you feel as though you’ve landed on another planet. Antarctica is as magnificent as it is mesmerising and massive. You may need to take a moment once in a while in order to take it all in. Although, the awe-inspired silence will inevitably be broken by the first signs of wildlife. It is not uncommon on board when penguins, whales or seals appear, that the serene silence will be broken by loud enthusiastic cheers erupting spontaneously all across the ship.
Just as the ice-scapes of Antarctica change through its seasons, so does its wildlife. In late spring from October to November, there will be much more snow, making the landscapes seem even more surreal and pristine. This forms the backdrop of penguin courting and nest building. Whales are still few and far between during this time, most of them still on their way and begin to arrive in greater numbers by December and January. Arrival of more whales marks the height of summer which is also when the first penguin chicks hatch. Watching the clumsy clumps of feathers playing in the snow is always a charming sight. February and March are the peak of whale-watching opportunities, when they are lured to the Antarctic Seas by vast amounts of krill.
Once you arrive, the Expedition Team will seize every chance they can, to take you ice-cruising and on Zodiac landings to get closer to the impressive scenery and wildlife. Spotting penguins from the ship is already an experience, which becomes even more wondrous when you go ashore to see them up close and personal. It’s the same if a seal or whale suddenly appears next to you when cruising in the smaller explorer boats or when kayaking as part of an optional activity. Needless to say, keep your camera close at all times. To enhance the feeling of discovery, the Expedition Team will talk expertly about fascinating subjects like the history of the frozen continent, the biology of local wildlife, and the intriguing aspects of glaciology.

Overnight: Hurtigruten ‘MS Fridtjof Nansen’

Meals included: Breakfast; Lunch; Dinner

Be sure to talk to your expedition team onboard to book optional excursions for your time in Antarctica! 

Optional Activity: Camping in Antarctica (An Amundsen Night)
Duration: 10 hours
In the true style of the early explorers, we venture out at night for a once in a lifetime experience as we go camping in the Antarctic night. Although Amundsen, Scott and Nordenskjold had different equipment, they used the best gear available at the time. So do we. This activity features top of the line camping equipment that meets Antarctic standards for camping on snow. This activity may have limited availability. In the event that space becomes limited, participants will be chosen via a lottery based lucky draw.
Imagine yourself sleeping under the Antarctic sky with little more than the thin wall of a tent separating you from the elements. In the true style of the early explorers we venture out at night for this once in a lifetime chance to feel like a polar explorer. Although Amundsen, Scott and Nordenskjold had different equipment, they used the best gear available at the time. So do we. This activity features top of the line camping equipment that meets Antarctic standards for camping on snow. 
The adventure starts with a pre-camp briefing by the experienced expedition staff who accompany us on the activity. We set up our camp after dinner with guests participating from beginning to end. If you have never pitched a tent before, this is your chance. After the camp is set up you can either go to bed or sit outside and marvel at the stillness, or listen to penguins in the distance. Depending on the landing site, we may take short walks to nearby viewpoints and visit penguin colonies in the bright Antarctic night. If you like, wake up early, climb out of your tent and watch the sunrise. 
In the morning hours we take down the camp and boats pick us up for the return trip to the ship. Back on board, we enjoy a special breakfast and debrief the experience. 
As an IAATO member, Hurtigruten adheres to all guidelines associated with onshore overnight stays in Antarctica. We leave nothing behind and remove all traces of our presence to protect wildlife and the fragile environment. Join us for this unique and unforgettable experience!

Optional Activity: Snowshoeing in Antarctica
Duration: 2 hours
Feel the spirit of the early Antarctic explorers. Join us for a walk on the wild side with snowshoes. Climb hills, cross glittering white plains, and untouched landscape. Here few humans have set foot. The experienced Expedition Team will guide you to places with awe-inspiring views. You might observe penguin colonies or even see whales swimming in the sea from above.

Optional Activity: Kayaking Adventure in Antarctica
Duration: 3 hours
Merge with nature on an exceptional Antarctic sea kayaking adventure. Explore nature and wildlife up-close as we kayak along awe-inspiring icebergs and glaciers.
Paddling through crystal-clear water and spot seals, penguins, and even whales. The experienced Expedition Team will take you to stunning Antarctic areas with high chances of encountering wildlife.

Overnight: Hurtigruten ‘MS Fridtjof Nansen’

Meals included: Breakfast; Lunch; Dinner

Overnight: Hurtigruten ‘MS Fridtjof Nansen’

Meals included: Breakfast; Lunch; Dinner

Overnight: Hurtigruten ‘MS Fridtjof Nansen’

Meals included: Breakfast; Lunch; Dinner

Overnight: Hurtigruten ‘MS Fridtjof Nansen’

Meals included: Breakfast; Lunch; Dinner

After having delved into the remote and wild continent of Antarctica over five whole days, it will be time to set sail homeward bound. By this point, both your head, heart and camera will be filled with lifelong memories. Crossing back over the Drake Passage, spend the next couple of days replaying those memories just to try and stay in Antarctica a little longer. The Expedition Team will also be doing the same as they recap the journey’s many experiences in the Science Centre. Working out in the state of the art on-board gymnasium is also a great way of processing everything you have seen. Or maybe just let your mind wander back to Antarctica in the Explorer Lounge and Bar?

Overnight: Hurtigruten ‘MS Fridtjof Nansen’

Meals included: Breakfast; Lunch; Dinner

Overnight: Hurtigruten ‘MS Fridtjof Nansen’

Meals included: Breakfast; Lunch; Dinner

The expedition cruise reaches its inevitable conclusion today upon the ship's return to Ushuaia. Having travelled to the bottom of the world and back - you’ve journeyed to the fabled Seventh Continent, something that only a lucky handful have ever accomplished, and you have enchanting stories and penguin photos to prove it!
Antarctica will likely hold a place in your heart which few other places can match. Together with the other explorers who have been there, may we do all we can to preserve its unique beauty.
From Ushuaia, disembark and join a transfer to the airport for the flight back to Buenos Aires and a second chance to experience the Argentine capital. Upon arrival in Buenos Aires, be transferred to the hotel for the final night in Argentina.

Overnight: Hotel Grand Brizo (or similar)

Meals included: Breakfast

Known as the Paris of the south and for its multitude of theatres and world class steakhouses, Buenos Aires is the vibrant capital of Argentina and one of the most amazing cities in South America.
Today enjoy a wonderful sightseeing tour visiting the famous Playa del Mayo, Cabildo, the Metropolitan Cathedral and the impressive Plaza San Martín. Come across sumptuous French palaces in Palermo Chico, the area of Palermo best known for its large parks designed by celebrated landscape architects, such as the illustrious Frenchman Charles Thays. In Retiro and Recoleta, you will learn about the dream of local aristocrats in the late 19th and early 20th centuries, when they sought to build a small-scale Paris in the heart of Buenos Aires.
Take the rest of today to explore the sights, gastronomy and arts of this fantastic city. Come sundown, you might like to take a taxi to moody Baracas and enjoy one of the many traditional wine bars or maybe practise your dance moves in the hometown of Tango. Make sure to embrace the heat from this sensuous city, because you can be sure that it is about to get a whole lot colder.

Optional Activity: Dinner & Show at Cafe de Los Angelitos - $199 AUD per person

Overnight: Hotel Grand Brizo (or similar)

Meals included: Breakfast

The time has come to begin your journey back home.

Meals included: Breakfast; In-Flight

Welcome home!
We hope you have enjoyed your 15-day Highlights of Antarctica trip!
Please note: Some flights may arrive +1 day later.

 

After purchase, you will receive a receipt and a Purchase Confirmation, directing you to an online Passenger Information Form. You must complete the Passenger Information Form within 72 hours of purchase. Any special requests, preferences and optional extras MUST be clearly stated in your Passenger Information Form. Any change requested after submitting your Passenger Information Form cannot be guaranteed, is strictly subject to availability and will incur surcharges as outlined in the Schedule of Fees below.

 

On purchasing this Travel Offer, you are bound by the General Terms and Conditions and the specific terms and conditions outlined in this Important Information.

 

Please note: All countries and territories have different entry requirements in relation to vaccinations, quarantine/isolation periods and travel restrictions. Due to the evolving nature, we would ask all of our customers to monitor, meet and adhere to the specific requirements of their intended destination(s) in the lead-up to and immediately before travel, as well as any requirements post-travel upon their return.

 

CANCELLATION POLICY

Tour packages are non-refundable. If your tour package is affected by Covid-19-related travel restrictions and you are unable to travel, you will receive either a free date change (credit that is specific to your original package and purchase value) or an open credit less any non-recoverable supplier fees to the value of your original purchase for use on any other tour or package available via the TripADeal website.

 

Please note: Date change credits are subject to availability and not guaranteed until confirmed by TripADeal, not the tour operator you are due to stay with. We recommend you consider purchasing travel insurance with Covid-19 protection. The standard cancellation policy will apply if you cannot travel because you have tested positive for Covid-19.

 

Please note: All additional charges are payable in AUD (unless otherwise stated).  

 

 

This travel offer is valid for travel on selected dates until the 7th March 2025.

 

This travel offer is priced per person based on a twin share. 

 

Single Traveller Supplement  

For solo travellers, a mandatory single supplement applies. 

• Polar Outside: $9,000
• Arctic Superior w/ Balcony: $10,000
• Expedition Suite w/ Balcony: $11,000

Please note: Accommodation for single customers who are travelling on a tour or cruise package may be in a single room, depending on availability. 

 

Departure Dates 

2024 

November: 17

 

2025 

January: 26^

February: 25

March: 7

Please note: See checkout for live dates and availability. 

 

Surcharges  

Please note: 

• Dates/months with a ^ incur a high season surcharge of $1,200 per person. 

 

Departure Cities  

Sydney, Melbourne, *Brisbane, *Adelaide, *Perth or *Auckland. 

 

Departure City Surcharges  

• Brisbane: $200 per person.

• Adelaide: $200 per person.

• Perth: $700 per person.

• Auckland: $200 per person.

 

 

International Full-Service Airline(s) Used  

• Cabin Class: Economy class.

• Airlines: Qantas, LATAM and airline partners (subject to availability).

Please note: We cannot accommodate one-way flights. Travellers must take all included flights within the package, and any flights intentionally forfeited will result in later flights being subject to cancellation.  

 

Missed Flights 

If you fail to arrive for your outbound flight, you risk all flight and land arrangements in your destination being automatically cancelled by the airlines and land operator, respectively. Additional fees may apply to reinstate these services. If you miss your flight for whatever reason, please contact us as soon as possible to make arrangements.  

 

Arrive Early Options  

Buenos Aires - $300 per person.

High season dates range up to $700 per person, subject to availability.

Please note:

• This fee does not include extra nights' accommodation, meals or airport transfers.

• You may book a date to arrive early via our website but only a date that is within 30 days of the tour departure date. If you wish to arrive earlier than 30 days before your tour departure date, please call our friendly staff for availability and pricing. Additional costs may apply.

• No flight booking changes or cancellations are permitted after air tickets have been issued.

• Flight changes are subject to availability at the time of booking.

• A high season arrive early can be purchased for up to $700 per person, subject to availability.

• High season surcharges apply to flights departing between the below date ranges (only available for purchase over the phone):

23rd September 2024 - 20th October 2024

6th December 2024 - 31st January 2024 

 

Stay Behind Options  

Buenos Aires - $300 per person.

High season dates: up to $700 per person, subject to availability.

Please note:

• This fee does not include extra nights' accommodation, meals or airport transfers.

• A stay behind can only be booked up to one month after your package end date upon check-out. Should you wish to stay later, please contact us to request availability. Additional costs may apply.

• No flight booking changes or cancellations are permitted after air tickets have been issued.

• Flight changes are subject to availability at the time of booking.

• A high season stay behind can be purchased for up to $700 per person, subject to availability.

• High season surcharges apply to flights departing between the below date ranges (only available for purchase over the phone):

6th December 2024 - 31st January 2025

28th March 2025 - 27th April 2025 

 

Stopover Packages   

* Santiago, Chile

Twin share: $800 per person/one way.

Solo Traveller: $1,300 one way.

Includes:

• 2 nights in 4-star accommodation.

• Daily breakfast.

• Return airport transfers.

Please note: 

• When a pre and post-tour stopover is chosen, the same stopover location must be chosen each way, due to the airline used.

• When selecting an Arrive Early or Stay Behind in conjunction with a Stopover Package, the stopover will take place after the departure date you select for your Arrive Early or Stay Behind.

• Stopover packages are subject to availability.

• In the event that a purchased stopover package and a purchased preferred airline upgrade are not compatible, you will have the option to receive a refund for the preferred airline upgrade or be offered an alternative stopover city option, e.g if you choose to fly with Singapore Airlines you cannot stopover in Dubai. 

 

Flight Class Upgrades  

Business Class: For pricing, please refer to the payment cart at checkout.

Please note:

• Flight upgrades are subject to availability and pricing changes (if we cannot fulfil your request, the upgrade cost will be refunded).

• On any upgrade purchase, short-haul flights and domestic flight sectors are not guaranteed. 

 

Hurtigruten - ​​​​​​'MS Fridtjof Nansen'  

Featuring Hurtigruten's revolutionary battery hybrid powered propulsion system, 'MS Fridtjof Nansen' is a near identical twin to her sister ship 'MS Roald Amundsen'. Combining state-of-the-art technology and premium onboard experience with Hurtigruten’s 125 years of experience and unparalleled destinations, the Norwegian-built ship introduces the next generation of adventure travel. 

 

Facilities Onboard 

Cabins & Public Areas 

The stunning scenery will be reflected in a rich and comfortable interior design. Scandinavian materials from nature, such as granite, oak, birch and wool will be used to create relaxed and stylish cabins and public areas. All cabins are outside and 50% with a private balcony.  

 

Science Centre 

The core of the onboard experience is the Nansen Science Centre, an edutainment venue where guests and crew meet to create a deeper understanding of the areas we explore. Nansen Science Centre will also be the onboard HQ for the Expedition Team. 

 

Restaurants 

'MS Fridtjof Nansen's' three restaurants will host a variety of dining options, with menus drawn from our rich Norwegian and Nordic traditions, as well as international cuisine and local inspiration. Whether enjoying your meal at Aune Main Dining, Fredheim – the informal international meeting place, or the specialty restaurant Lindstrøm, you will indulge in low-key yet refined, modern Norwegian Nordic cooking – where our honest and delicious cuisine reflects our destinations.  

 

Everything You Need For An Expedition Cruise 

Each expedition voyage is accompanied by a hand-picked team of specialists and modern-day explorers. Highly experienced, passionate and knowledgeable, the Expedition Team will be your guides and guardians on your voyage of exploration, instructing you on safety, sustainability and science. 'MS Fridtjof Nansen' will feature a variety of custom-built expedition equipment including kayaks, a fleet of Blueye underwater drones and Expedition Boats for safe landings in remote areas.

 

Onboard Currency

EUR. 

 

Cabins/Staterooms 

RR - Polar Outside 

The Polar Outside cabins are primarily on the middle decks. Most are 20 square metres with windows and flexible sleeping arrangements, as well as a TV and a bathroom with a shower. Larger cabins on lower and middle decks are 205 - 248 square feet with flexible sleeping arrangements, a double bed that can be divided into two single beds (some with a sofa bed) and a TV. 

 

XT/XTD - Arctic Superior Cabins 

Arctic Superior cabins are comfortable and roomy, and have a balcony. These are high-deck cabins with a balcony. The spacious cabins are different sizes with flexible sleeping arrangements (some with sofa bed), TV, kettle, tea and coffee. 

 

ME - Expedition Suite with Balcony 

The suites are spacious cabins with a fantastic layout, including expansive windows and a balcony. The suites feature flexible sleeping arrangements with a comfortable sofa and sitting areas, as well as a TV and a bathroom with a shower. Expedition Suites are exclusively on the upper and middle decks. Expedition Suites include a bathrobe, an espresso maker and more. An exciting welcome gift awaits all suite guests in their cabin.

 

Please note: Cruise timetables are subject to change. Some cruise cabins may have restricted views, based on availability. Cruise cabins booked on a guarantee basis and are assigned by the cruise line prior to departure. Your cruise cabin number will be reflected in your final documents. 

 

Accommodation Used 

4-Star Properties (Self-Rated) 

• Buenos Aires, Argentina: Grand Brizo Buenos Aires Hotel.

Please note: Accommodation/rooms offered are based on a lead-in room type and are subject to availability based on seasonality. In the instance a property is not available, a similar standard of accommodation will be provided. Properties will be confirmed and included in your travel pack, which you will receive 4-6 weeks before travel. 

 

Extra Nights  

Not available. 

 

Maximum Room Capacity  

2 people. 

 

Child Policy  

• No child discounts. The full price applies to all children travelling with their parents.

• Valid for children 12 years old and over.

Please note: Children must be accompanied by a responsible adult 18 years old and over to travel. No unaccompanied minors are allowed. 

 

Triple Share  

Not available. 

 

Bedding Configuration  

Twin or double bedding (subject to availability). 

 

 

Optional Tours/Activities  

• Day 13: Dinner & Show at Cafe de Los Angelitos - $199 per person (paid at check out).

Please note:

• The optional tour listed above must be purchased on checkout or over the phone before submitting your passenger information form (subject to availability). 

• Prices are based per person, are subject to availability, time permitting and weather conditions.

• Some tours or shore excursions require minimum numbers to operate.

• Shore excursions must be booked whilst onboard (subject to availability).

• Shore excursion programmes and itineraries may vary depending on local conditions and/or any unforeseen events concerning the timing on the day of the tour.

 

• Visa fees and requirements 

• Domestic transfers and flights not stated in the deal offer

• Meals/beverages not stated in the deal offer

• Optional gratuities/tipping 

• Optional activities/tours 

• Personal expenses

• Travel insurance

• Mandatory city tax

 

WHAT TO PACK FOR AN EXPEDITION CRUISE:

To make packing a bit easier, Hurtigruten has drawn up a packing list. If you should forget something, don’t worry! On board all the ships you will find a shop with a wide range of clothes and practical items.

• Onboard it’s smart to wear ordinary shoes.

• Bring a memory card with a large capacity – there are sockets in the cabins to recharge photo equipment.

• The dress code aboard the ship is relaxed and casual and you are not expected to dress formally for meals.

• Extra shoelaces are also a good idea.

• Bring a good pair of binoculars.

• A small waterproof backpack is necessary for carrying essentials.

• Please remember to bring your passport and a copy of it.

• Sun protection.

• Sunglasses with UV filter lenses.

• Lip balm with UV protection. Dry, cold wind and sun often cause chapped lips.

• Money in the correct currency. Remember, the ships also accept several credit cards.

• Remember to bring sufficient medication to last through any unforeseen delays.

• You will receive a wind and water-resistant parka as a memento on this ship.

• Rubber boots are available on loan, at no extra cost. 

 

Expeditions To Polar Waters:

• Warm winter jacket

• Wind and water-resistant trousers and long thermal underwear and top (we recommend wool)

• Warm cap or headband

• You should also bring swimwear for use in our on-deck whirlpools

• Scarf or fleece tube

• Warm woollen jumper and fleece jumper/jacket, remember layers are essential

• Sunglasses with UV filter lenses

• Gloves and mittens, fleece and wool

• Warm socks

• Bring extra batteries for your camera, as battery life is shorter in cold areas

• Shoes with good soles are recommended for outdoors, on deck, and for excursions ashore. Make sure they are worn-in walking boots. 

 

TOUR GUIDE VS. TOUR LEADER

Tour Guide: 

Often locals with intimate knowledge of an area, its culture, and history. Their role entails providing commentary, routing the tour, and seeing that people have a good time. They are a licensed, qualified expert who supplies specific information on the history, art, architecture and culture of the city/village/attraction where they are guiding the tour. The guide meets the group at the required place and leaves it at the end of the tour; they do not travel with the group. 

 

Tour Leader: 

An experienced person tasked with ensuring the smooth operation of tours, as well as providing practical support to passengers throughout the whole trip. Their role primarily includes assisting with accommodation, transportation between locations, and communication with tour guides at each stop. A tour leader may provide general guidance around a city or village and offer information on the place visited on the bus. However, they are not required to have specific art, architecture, or historical knowledge. They are not allowed to provide a guided tour or commentary of a city/village/attraction once there and, if caught doing so, can be fined. 

 

Please note: Tour leaders/guides are not a standard inclusion in all travel offers. Tour leaders/guides will only be made available when required to enhance the experience of the destination featured. 

 

CLIMATE & AVERAGE TEMPERATURES

If you've never visited a polar destination, you're probably wondering what you can expect weather-wise when you travel to Antarctica. Even if you've spent time in the Arctic Circle, the Antarctic is an entirely different experience. The high elevation and large landmass make the south pole significantly colder than the North. Of course, temperature is only one piece of the Antarctic weather puzzle. Here's an overview of what weather conditions are like on Earth's southernmost destination:

 

Seasons in Antarctica

Antarctica only has two seasons which are summer and winter. Because it's located in the southern hemisphere, Antarctica's summer is from October to February. During this time, the sun is almost always in the sky. Days rapidly get longer there in summer, until, eventually, the sun doesn't set at all. This phenomenon is called the Midnight Sun. Although there are multiple places in the northern hemisphere that experience this perpetual sunlight during half of the year, Antarctica is the only southern location where it can be seen.

January is the warmest month in Antarctica, during which average temperatures climb all the way up to 0 degrees in the Antarctic Peninsula. However, the average temperature ranges from -10 degrees celsius to -60 degrees, depending on how far into the continent you travel.

If anyone is in Antarctica once winter comes, they're staying until summer returns. Flights and ships cease travel to and from Antarctica once the weather starts to turn, as conditions become too treacherous for travel. Typically, researchers are the only people who brave the Antarctic night. This is a valuable time for astronomers, who can use complete darkness to get spectacular views of the universe. Climatologists are also busy during this time of year tracking and comparing the temperatures on and below the continent's surface.

 

LATE SUMMER CRUISING IN ANTARCTICA:

February - March

If you choose to go on an Antarctica cruise in February or March, you will be seeing the continent during its late summer period. This provides a variety of benefits, including the ability to explore more thoroughly as the ice melts and breaks apart, allowing for a high chance of seeing whales on the Peninsula.

 

What whales might you see?

Late summer is the best time to see whales in Antarctica. It is most common to see Humpback whales, Minke whales and killer whales, though it's possible to see many other species as well. These can include blue whales, fin whales, sei whales, southern right whales and sperm whales. 

 

What about penguins?

By March, those adorable penguin chicks are growing up. They begin to fledge and grow into their adult feathers, while their parents may already have gone out to sea to begin to prepare for their own moulting season.

 

Why go during this season?

If you're an explorer who wants to see as much of Antarctica as possible, choose a late-summer cruise. As the polar ice melts, you'll have access to points much farther south than you would during other travel seasons. You will certainly see some wildlife, as well, and will get to know the untouched majesty of Antarctica in this particular form.

 

FLIGHTS

Seat Selection & Frequent Flyer Points:

We do not arrange seat selection. It is essential to highlight that some airlines do not allow pre-selected seats. We strongly suggest you contact the airline directly with seating allocation requirements and/or arrive at the airport earlier to arrange your seating. While we do not add frequent flyer member details to bookings, you can do this directly with the airline once you have your flight information.

 

Passport Validity:

Customers must provide valid passport details either at the time of purchase or no later than 45 days before the departure date. Failure to do so may result in the cancellation of the booking. Customers will be responsible for any costs and fees incurred in this instance.

 

CRUISE

Embarkation / Disembarkation:

• Begins approximately 2 hours after docking.

• Due to security reasons, all guests must be on board 2 hours before sailing.

• Itineraries are subject to change at any time without notice.

• Check your specific sailing for exact departure and arrival times. All times are local to the port.

Please note: Strict Covid-19 terms may also apply regarding proof of insurance covering Covid-19 and/or vaccination. Please refer to the cruise lines’ terms and conditions for further information before boarding.

 

Cruise Loyalty Discounts:

Please note: Travellers must contact the cruise line directly upon receiving their travel documents in order to request any membership benefits they may be entitled to.

 

COACH TOUR

Meals:

For meals not included, the tour leader (when available) will offer assistance with reservations, suggestions and directions to local restaurants. It is your responsibility to notify us of any dietary requests/requirements. Please note: We will do our best to meet your requests/requirements; however, we cannot guarantee that we will always be able to.

 

Luggage:

You will be responsible for all your personal belongings whilst on tour. You must carry your own luggage from the vehicle to the hotel room and back to the vehicle. The driver will assist with the uploading and unloading of bags from the vehicle.

 

OTHER

Mobility:

If you require wheelchair access please contact our friendly sales and service team to inquire on your behalf.

 

Fitness Level Required:

A leisurely level of fitness will be required. 

Leisurely is described as light walking, including up multiple stairs, and occasional hiking, may involve uneven surfaces. Able to travel unassisted and get on and off vehicles and small boats. Suitable for most fitness levels and mobility. 

 

Please note: If you have any concerns, please consult your healthcare provider prior to purchase/travel.

 

Yellow Fever:

A valid international certificate of vaccination against Yellow Fever is required in many countries. You may need to present this on arrival at the airport or border crossing. Some countries will refuse entry if you are unable to present your certificate. It's also common for your home country to request a Yellow Fever certificate upon arrival.

You must check with your doctor well before leaving home about the Yellow Fever requirements for the countries you'll be visiting.

 

Gratuities / Tipping:

Cruise

It is not standard practice to tip on Hurtigruten ships, but if you feel that certain crew members should be rewarded for providing exceptional service, there are tip boxes in the restaurant together with envelopes.

 

Land Arrangements

Gratuities (tips) are not included in the tour price for services of the tour leader (when available) and driver throughout the tour. Tipping is optional and at the customer's discretion.

 

Please note: Tipping for services provided is always a matter of personal discretion; however, please be aware that many locals consider tipping part of their normal remuneration, and they may approach you for payment; there's no need to be intimidated by the request. 

 

Sightseeing:

Please note: If entry to a site is affected by changes in operating hours or public holiday closures, your itinerary, where possible, may be adjusted, or a similar activity will be offered in its place (subject to availability).

 

Shopping: 

Shopping overseas can be a daunting and confusing experience, especially when there is a language barrier. Please be very cautious when foreign currencies and prices are involved. If paying by credit card, please pay close attention to the amount you are being charged and keep all your receipts. 

Do not make any purchases you are not comfortable with or feel pressured into. If you are uncertain or need assistance with the language barrier, please seek assistance from your Tour Guide/Leader.

Please refer to our Terms and Conditions regarding shopping for further information.

 

Argentina

A tourist visa for Argentina is no longer required if travelling on an Australian Passport. Passengers must hold a passport valid at least six months on entry with one blank visa page. More information can be found at https://visasdirect.com.au/requirements 

 

Chile

Australian passport holders visiting Chile for tourism purposes or transit between 8 to 72 hours must apply for a single or multiple tourist visas. Visas must be lodged through the SAC CIUDADANOS portal only https://tramites.minrel.gov.cl/

Visa rules may have changed since COVID-19. Check with the nearest embassy, consulate or immigration department of the destination you're entering. Please start arranging your visa at least 3 weeks prior to departure to account for any delays due to consulate operating hours.

 

Important: 

• Please start arranging your visa three weeks before departure to account for any delays due to consulate operating hours.

• Visa rules may have changed since Covid-19. Some countries and airlines may require you to obtain an additional visa before arrival. Please check with the nearest embassy, consulate or immigration department of the destination you're entering.

Please note: 

• Passengers who are not Australian citizens must also check with the respective consulate or visa agency to determine what their visa requirements are and what personal identification is required.

• It is also important to note that some areas of employment, such as journalism, government authorities and charity organisations, may have additional restrictions in applying for visas. This may, in turn, affect the type of application required.

 

Embarking on your next trip is exciting, and while you hope the unexpected does not happen, it is best to be prepared. We strongly recommend you take out travel insurance when making your booking. Whether it’s a potential medical emergency, a flight cancellation, a delayed suitcase, or an unforeseen event, it's important to ensure you're adequately protected. For more information or advice visit https://www.tripadeal.com.au/travel-insurance

 

Voluntary Changes

This includes booking changes requested by you, including but not limited to those changes requiring an airline ticket or a Purchase Confirmation reissue.

• Changes - $100 AUD per booking and any additional charges applied by the airline/cruise company/accommodation/other travel providers.

 

Name Changes Due To Passenger Error

• If the incorrect name has been provided, charges of $100 AUD per booking and any additional charges applied by the airline/cruise company/accommodation/other travel providers.

 

Supplier Fees

In the event the tour package you have purchased is unable to proceed, and/or a travel Supplier is unable to fulfil the tour due to external circumstances (Limitation of Liability e.g. a Force Majeure event), there may be a fee or amount of money that is withheld by our Suppliers and is unrecoverable. This may be due to non-refundable airline tickets, cancellation penalties with cruise cabins or unrecoverable payments with our land/accommodation partners. If refunds are not available from Suppliers, we will endeavour to obtain a travel credit on the best terms available and communicate these outcomes to you. In the event we are unable to obtain a refund or travel service credit, or part thereof, this cost is passed on to the customer as a Supplier Fee.