People have always aspired to what some would call the "impossible." On board the new Vega vessel, which is capable of being in the heart of the ice, you can dream of more and discover new horizons.
This cruise captures the most interesting places of the South Shetland Islands and the Antarctic Peninsula. You will visit the polar stations, walk along the Antarctic Peninsula, land in penguin colonies and watch sea elephants and leopards.
It can be compared to a cozy boutique hotel with a modern sophisticated design in the style of Scandinavian chic
The embodiment of the Antarctic dream
You will find yourself in the very center of an impressive decor in subtle shades of blue and white, surrounded by exceptional wildlife!
Landings
We will try to disembark on Petermann Island, in Paradise Bay and in Port Lacroix
Passage through the Drake Strait
The Strait harbors a very diverse fauna, elegant albatrosses and Cape doves, playfully soaring in the sky
SPA and recreation on board
Infinity heated pool, panoramic sauna, hot tubs – there is everything on board for relaxation and pleasure!
Popular science facts
Lecture programs by expedition experts and invited speakers are waiting for you
Itinerary
Day 1 -
Ushuaia
Arrival on the eve of the tour on 27.12.24 in Buenos Aires, overnight at the hotel and flight to Ushuaia is included in the price.
Ushuaia is the gateway to the White Continent.
This city, located at the southernmost tip of South America in Argentine Patagonia, is often called the “end of the world".
The city is quite small and you can walk around it.
There are several small museums, as well as pubs and restaurants – a good place to try steaks cooked over an open fire.
In the afternoon, boarding the ship.
Day 2 -
Drake Strait
If there is one place, one sea, one sea crossing that tourists, explorers and seasoned sailors fear, it is undoubtedly the Drake Strait.
Experienced sailors will tell you that you have to pass it to earn a meeting with the White Continent.
The Drake Strait harbors a very diverse fauna, but do not forget to look up at the sky so as not to miss the appearance of elegant albatrosses and Cape doves playfully hovering near the ship.
Day 3 -
Drake Strait
If there is one place, one sea, one sea crossing that tourists, explorers and seasoned sailors fear, it is undoubtedly the Drake Strait.
Experienced sailors will tell you that you have to pass it to earn a meeting with the White Continent.
The Drake Strait harbors a very diverse fauna, but do not forget to look up at the sky so as not to miss the appearance of elegant albatrosses and Cape doves playfully hovering near the ship.
Day 4 -
Antarctic Strait
The Antarctic Peninsula is a place where, among captivating glaciers, majestic icebergs and snow–capped islands, most visitors to the White Continent will realize their dream of Antarctica.
The Antarctic Peninsula, the most accessible area of the continent, is home to several scientific bases and some of the most beautiful wildlife landscapes, such as the extremely photogenic Lemaire Canal.
We will try to disembark at Petermann Island, Paradise Bay and Port Lacroix.
Day 5 -
Antarctic Strait
The Antarctic Peninsula is a place where, among captivating glaciers, majestic icebergs and snow–capped islands, most visitors to the White Continent will realize their dream of Antarctica.
The Antarctic Peninsula, the most accessible area of the continent, is home to several scientific bases and some of the most beautiful wildlife landscapes, such as the extremely photogenic Lemaire Canal.
We will try to disembark at Petermann Island, Paradise Bay and Port Lacroix.
1 more photo
Day 6 -
The Antarctic Peninsula
The Antarctic Peninsula is a place where, among captivating glaciers, majestic icebergs and snow–capped islands, most visitors to the White Continent will realize their dream of Antarctica.
The Antarctic Peninsula, the most accessible area of the continent, is home to several scientific bases and some of the most beautiful wildlife landscapes, such as the extremely photogenic Lemaire Canal.
We will try to disembark at Petermann Island, Paradise Bay and Port Lacroix.
1 more photo
Day 7 -
The Antarctic Peninsula
The Antarctic Peninsula is a place where, among captivating glaciers, majestic icebergs and snow–capped islands, most visitors to the White Continent will realize their dream of Antarctica.
The Antarctic Peninsula, the most accessible area of the continent, is home to several scientific bases and some of the most beautiful wildlife landscapes, such as the extremely photogenic Lemaire Canal.
We will try to disembark at Petermann Island, Paradise Bay and Port Lacroix.
1 more photo
Day 8 -
The Antarctic Peninsula
The Antarctic Peninsula is a place where, among captivating glaciers, majestic icebergs and snow–capped islands, most visitors to the White Continent will realize their dream of Antarctica.
The Antarctic Peninsula, the most accessible area of the continent, is home to several scientific bases and some of the most beautiful wildlife landscapes, such as the extremely photogenic Lemaire Canal.
We will try to disembark at Petermann Island, Paradise Bay and Port Lacroix.
Day 9 -
The Antarctic Peninsula
The Antarctic Peninsula is a place where, among captivating glaciers, majestic icebergs and snow–capped islands, most visitors to the White Continent will realize their dream of Antarctica.
The Antarctic Peninsula, the most accessible area of the continent, is home to several scientific bases and some of the most beautiful wildlife landscapes, such as the extremely photogenic Lemaire Canal.
We will try to disembark at Petermann Island, Paradise Bay and Port Lacroix.
Day 10 -
Drake Strait
We are returning to Ushuaia, and our guides on board will help you organize your impressions of what you saw, exchange the best photos and raise a glass to a successful trip.
1 more photo
Day 11 -
Drake Strait
We are returning to Ushuaia, and our guides on board will help you organize your impressions of what you saw, exchange the best photos and raise a glass to a successful trip.
Day 12 -
Ushuaia, Argentina
After breakfast, you will disembark in the southernmost city in the world.
Difficulty
Suitable for everyone
Accommodation
Accommodation
Cabin on the boat
9 nights
Hotel
1 night
Comfort
Premium
5 more photos
The tour includes accommodation:
1 night at the Buenos Aires hotel on the eve of the cruise from 12/27 to 12/28;
11 nights on board the Vega ice class expedition vessel.
The cost of the tour for 1 person, depending on the accommodation:
Cabin
Cost per person
Cabin with balcony M5, 28 sq. m.
$ 21 180
Cabin with balcony D6, 28 sq m
$ 24 380
SU suite, 44 sq m
$ 29 280
Prices are per person when staying in a double cabin.
Vega ice class vessel.
The SH Vega is the second in a series of three creatively conceived and designed expedition vessels of the advanced polar class of the new generation, designed for circumnavigation of the world with a focus on high-latitude regions. Its ice penetration is 80-100 cm, the vessel is able to walk independently in thin annual ice. The commissioning of the SH Vega took place in May 2022. It can be compared to a cozy boutique hotel with a modern sophisticated design in the style of Scandinavian chic. The spacious open decks and panoramic sea views, both from the cabin and from the public areas on board, will allow guests to truly immerse themselves in the continuously changing inspiring landscapes overboard and not lose contact with the surrounding wildlife throughout the cruise. An expedition cruise on board the SH Vega is the best choice for those who want to explore remote corners of our planet without abandoning the usual level of comfort and service. An outdoor infinity pool with ocean views, gourmet restaurants, stylish interiors, the best materials in decoration, cozy and spacious cabins with fireplaces. The vessel is equipped with battery technology for silent running, as well as exhaust gas purification systems, modern wastewater treatment systems and waste storage facilities necessary for operation in vulnerable polar regions. 152 guests are comfortably accommodated on board in 76 cabins and suites. The vessel demonstrates the highest ratio of the area of public areas on board per passenger in the industry. 13 zodiacs on board allow you to arrange the disembarkation of cruise guests in the most inaccessible places along the route.
SPA and recreation.
The on-board SPA and beauty salon offers a list of treatments for every taste: massage, aromatherapy, SPA treatments. We know all about relaxation and pleasure. The infinity heated pool is designed so that expedition participants can relax after a busy day and truly immerse themselves in the inspiring landscapes overboard. Panoramic sauna - here, after a relaxing massage, guests can admire the views. The hot tubs on the outdoor deck allow guests to refresh themselves after a sauna session. The gym on board is equipped with all necessary equipment. It offers cardio equipment, stretching bands, free weights and of course group and personal training from yoga and Pilates to meditation and weight training.
Meals on board.
Swan Restaurant is an elegant restaurant with impressive panoramic windows, where, under the guidance of the chef, with an emphasis on seasonal products from local farmers and fishermen, the delights of modern and traditional cuisine are created. The abundance of wood and warm natural materials, as well as changes in lighting and table setting, turn daytime everyday comfort into an exquisite place for dinner in the evening. A diet, vegetarian, and gluten-free menu is available. Chef's Table – private dinners at the main Swan restaurant. Accompanied by an individually selected wine collection, guests are offered exclusive dishes created with the participation of Michelin chefs Andrea Ribaldone and Sang Keun Oh, and brought to life by Chef Joerg Lehmann. Each glass served with a new course of dishes is complemented by detailed comments from the sommelier. Private dinners are available at an additional cost and require prior reservation. The Club Lounge is a bright and welcoming lounge, an ideal place for socializing and meeting with friends, equipped with cozy armchairs and a holographic fireplace. It serves pizza from a special Italian oven and traditional tapas. The Club Lounge is also the perfect place to complement the sunset with the vibrant taste and aroma of the nightly Gin O'clock. Fresh pastries, light snacks and a 24-hour self-service buffet. The cozy cafe serves espresso, latte, cappuccino and specialty tea drinks. Throughout the day and until late in the evening, you can order a glass of wine or a cocktail here. The grill bar by the pool is an ideal place to enjoy not only the gastronomic component - dishes created from local fresh seasonal products and fragrant wines, but also the changing landscapes of the cities and countries from which they were delivered. Cabin service allows you to place an order at any time of the day according to a specially designed menu with cabin delivery, which serves international cuisine.
CABIN WITH BALCONY D5, M5, D6 or luxury 9 nights
CABIN WITH BALCONY D5, M5, D6
Capacity for up to 2 passengers in the cabin
The area is 26 m2
Balcony of 6 m2
2 single beds or 1 double bed
Shower, toilet
Separate recreation area
Interactive TV
Mini bar
Safe deposit
Internal phone number
Air conditioning system
Pillow Menu
Babyliss Hair Dryer
Bathrobes and slippers
Lajatica cosmetics are available in the bathroom
Coffee Machine
Cabin maintenance 24/7
A 24-hour self-service laundry is available on Deck 4
Another option
luxury
Capacity for up to 4 passengers in the cabin
The area is 44 m2
Balcony of 12 m2
Superking bed
A holographic fireplace
Shower, toilet
Separate recreation area
Interactive TV
Mini bar
Safe deposit
Internal phone number
Air conditioning system
Pillow Menu
Babyliss Hair Dryer
Bathrobes and slippers
Lajatica cosmetics are available in the bathroom
Coffee Machine
Cabin maintenance 24/7
A 24-hour self-service laundry is available on Deck 4
SOFITEL RECOLETA 5 Hotel* 1 night
The tour provides accommodation for 1 night in a Buenos Aires 5* hotel - the night before the cruise from 12/27 to 12/28.
Sofitel Buenos Aires Recoleta offers stylish rooms with polished marble floors and impeccable service. The air-conditioned rooms feature a flat-screen TV with satellite channels and a minibar. The rooms are decorated in cream tones and feature stylish mahogany furniture. The windows are covered with floor-to-ceiling curtains. The marble bathrooms have a separate bathtub and shower. A full buffet breakfast is served. The hotel's restaurant serves modern Argentinean cuisine. The reception is open 24 hours a day.
Tour conditions
Group
up to 200 tourists
Minimum age
6 years old
Duration
12 days 11 nights
Group meets at
City of Buenos Aires
Included in price
domestic flight from Buenos Aires to Ushuaia and back (economy class);
accommodation in a 5* hotel before a cruise to Buenos Aires (1 night with breakfast);
all transfers to Buenos Aires and Ushuaia the day before the cruise, on the day of check-in and on the day of the end of the cruise: between airports, hotel and port (group);
accommodation on board in a cabin of the selected category;
on-board meals and room service, 24 hours a day;
coffee, tea, soft drinks and some alcoholic beverages 24 hours a day;
lecture programs of expedition experts and invited speakers;
All Zodiac landings and shore excursions are guided by our experienced expedition team;
The branded jacket will be delivered to the cabin on the first day of the cruise;
Rubber boots are provided for disembarkation;
basic WIFI package;
tips on board and port charges.
Paid extra
international flight to Buenos Aires and back;
compulsory medical insurance;
travel insurance;
private zodiac boat tours and kayaking during the cruise;
premium brand alcoholic beverages;
spa and beauty treatments, laundry services, shopping at retail stores on board.
It's important to know
Personal equipment you need for the tour
For our compatriots, the selection of clothes for polar expedition cruises will not be difficult: our winter sportswear fully meets the climatic conditions during most of our trips. Thermal underwear, wind and waterproof clothing, rubber boots will become a reliable basis for your comfort in the polar regions.
Layering in clothing is the most important thing in Arctic expeditions. It is better to wear several light items of clothing than one very warm one. This will help you optimally adapt to temperature changes: it is always easier to remove a layer of clothing if you feel hot, or put on something else if it gets cool.
The base layer. Choose thermal underwear made of merino wool or polypropylene, depending on the temperature of the region and the planned level of activity.
The middle layer. Wool or fleece sweaters, longsleeves, turtlenecks to create layers of clothing. The middle layers can be worn both under the park on landings and on board the ship.
The top layer. Windproof and waterproof parka and trousers. The park can be single-layered (insulated with protection from wind and water) or double-layered (consisting of a warm layer and an upper wind and water protection layer).
Shoes and accessories. Rubber boots (regular or insulated) are the most suitable option for expeditions. Take with you several pairs of gloves/mittens (1 light, 1 warm waterproof, 1 spare), a hat, a scarf /buff, several pairs of warm (for example, woolen) and ordinary socks.
Are plane tickets included in the price of the tour?
Flights from/to Buenos Aires are not included in the price of the tour. You can purchase them yourself or contact us for help.
Are visas required for travel?
The cruise passes through the territory of Chile. No visas are needed for Russian citizens.
If you are not a citizen of the Russian Federation, please check whether you need a visa to Argentina and Chile.
Do I need special training?
The level of physical fitness for expedition cruises is not important. Anyone who is able to lift and descend the ship's ladder will go through any landing in the wildest places without difficulty. On the contrary, those who want to get some exercise will be offered longer cross-country walks.
But it is worth remembering that you will find yourself in hard-to-reach places and the nearest hospital may be thousands of kilometers away from you, so if you suffer from chronic diseases, consult with your doctor before traveling.
Is there a dress code on board?
The main factor in choosing clothes on board a ship is convenience.
Clothes can be casual and informal.
But if you travel on luxury ships and mega yachts, we recommend that you stick to the casual style on board and make an exception for evening festive events, for example, a cocktail with the captain, a farewell Gala dinner, celebrations of significant dates, for which it is worth choosing elegant evening clothes.
How is your day on the cruise going?
A fixed daily schedule is never offered for expedition programs, as most routes run in remote, inaccessible and little-explored regions with extreme climatic conditions.
The suggested programs serve as an approximate guide of what you can see or visit during your trip, but visiting certain places or meeting certain animals cannot be guaranteed.
The program for the day, the schedule of drop-offs, lectures, and the restaurant's opening hours for the next day will be available the night before each day.
Please remember that during polar expeditions, changes in the program and route occur every day, so we may have to adjust the program during the day. The captain or the expedition leader will inform you about all new changes over the speakerphone.
During the cruise, the captain and the expedition leader will constantly monitor the weather and ice conditions to create as many opportunities for you as possible to enjoy landings and cruises on the zodiac.
Will I get seasick?
We may encounter unrest at sea on any expedition. Choose in advance and take with you a suitable cure for seasickness: pills, Band-aids, bracelets for motion sickness.
Most preventive medications for seasickness should be taken in advance while you are feeling well.
If you are prone to motion sickness, avoid alcohol, tobacco, excess liquids and confined spaces.
General conditions of participation in expedition cruises
The route of the expedition may change during the cruise, including by the decision of the expedition leader for the safety of participants (no compensation is paid to passengers if the route and schedule are changed).
Can the cruise itinerary change?
The ship's crew and the expedition team make every effort to adhere to the planned route, but it is important to understand that the distinctive feature of expedition programs is the flexibility of the route and possible changes due to weather and ice conditions or other unforeseen circumstances.
Changes will be made only if they meet your interests, your safety or the requirements of maritime regulations.
We assure you that the captain and his team will always do their best to make your trip safe, interesting and memorable.
How are we going to disembark?
We use sturdy boats called zodiacs to land.
Since there are no ports in most places along the expedition cruise route, we use zodiacs to land on uninhabited shores.
What documents do I need to provide for the cruise?
You will be required to provide passport data — last name and first name (written in Latin, as in the passport), date of birth, passport number, date of issue and expiration date.
Do I need medical insurance for a cruise?
You definitely need medical insurance covering evacuation and repatriation from hard-to-reach regions for 100,000 euros or dollars. The cost of such insurance is about 10 euros per day per person.
If you have your own insurance with the necessary coverage, then you can use it.
I need special food, will I be able to get it on board?
If you have any dietary requirements, we can send the information to the cruise company in advance.
Will the Internet and cellular service work during the cruise?
Wi-Fi on board is included in the price of the cruise.
The Internet and cellular communications are organized via satellite, if you use a regular cellular connection, it can be quite expensive.
Dates and Prices
The tour dates are not confirmed yet. Please, for clarification