The Ushuaia is known for her excellent expedition staff and is one of the smallest ships operating in Antarctica, maximizing her passengers’ time on land. A true science-focused vessel, she was originally built for use by NOAA.
Photo by: Antarpply Expeditions
Classic Antarctica
This Classic Antarctica expedition cruise to the Antarctic Peninsula and the South Shetland Islands boasts more time on land for guests thanks to accommodation aboard the 88-guest Ushuaia, one of the smallest ships operating in Antarctica.
Jan
Feb
Mar
Apr
Nov
Dec
FROM
$5,490
USD
PER PERSON
/
This Classic Antarctica expedition cruise to the Antarctic Peninsula and the South Shetland Islands lands at penguin colonies, research stations and the White Continent itself. Learn to identify species of whales and sea birds while crossing the Drake Passage beside expert naturalists and lecturers on the intimate 88-guest Ushuaia. Photograph penguins, icebergs and snow-capped mountains on South Shetland Islands, a haven for wildlife. Be greeted by macaroni, chinstrap and gentoo penguins as well as elephant seals at Livingston Island. Sail through into the caldera of Deception Island and experience wildlife overload on King George Island!
A unique addition to this Antarctic Peninsula itinerary is an intended visit to Paulet Island, where over 100,000 breeding pairs of Adélie penguins have been known to nest. Other landing sites (weather and sea conditions permitting) include Melchior Island group, Cuverville Island, Portal Point, Neko Harbor, Pléneau Island and Petermann Island to visit the southernmost colony of gentoo penguins.
Accommodation is aboard the 88-guest Ushuaia, an ice-strengthened polar vessel originally built for the United States agency NOAA (National Oceanic & Atmospheric Administration). As one of the smallest ships operating in Antarctica, she offers an open bridge policy and more time on land for her guests, intending to get the most out of her journeys.
In addition to the main Classic Antarctica 10- or 11-day itineraries listed, there are alternative itineraries of varying lengths that explore the Weddell Sea (12 days) or attempt to cross the Polar Circle (12 days).
Read on for details about this trip, or learn more about AdventureSmith’s Antarctica cruises, Antarctic Circle cruises and trips to Antarctica.
Classic Antarctica Itinerary
Ushuaia, ArgentinaUshuaia, Argentina
The main, 10- or 11-day Classic Antarctica cruise operates round-trip from Ushuaia, Argentina, crossing the Drake Passage in both directions and spending four or five days exploring the Antarctic Peninsula.
Embark the Ushuaia in the afternoon and meet the expedition and lecture staff. After settling in, sail along the famous Beagle Channel and the scenic Mackinlay Pass.
Named after the renowned explorer, Sir Francis Drake, who sailed these waters in 1578, the Drake Passage also marks the Antarctic Convergence, a biological barrier where cold polar water sinks beneath the warmer northern waters. This creates a great upwelling of nutrients, which sustains the biodiversity of this region. The Drake Passage also marks the northern limit of many Antarctic seabirds.
As Ushuaia sails across the passage, onboard lecturers help to identify the amazing variety of seabirds, including many albatrosses following in the ship’s wake. The Ushuaia’s open bridge policy provides the option to join officers on the bridge and learn about navigation, watch for whales and enjoy the view. A full program of lectures will be offered as well. The first sightings of icebergs and snow-capped mountains indicate arrival at the South Shetland Islands, a group of twenty islands and islets first sighted in February 1819 by Captain William Smith of the brig Williams. With favorable conditions in the Drake Passage, lecturers and naturalists will accompany you ashore to experience the first encounter with the penguins and seals on day 3.
The South Shetland Islands are a haven for wildlife. Vast penguin rookeries, beaches ruled by Antarctic fur seals and southern elephant seals make every day spent in this amazing island group unforgettable. Sailing through the narrow passage into the flooded caldera of Deception Island is truly amazing. King George Island, the largest of the South Shetland Islands, features colonies of nesting Adélie and chinstrap penguins, kelp gulls, blue-eyed cormorants, Antarctic terns and southern giant petrels and is home to scientific bases of many different countries. Macaroni, chinstrap and gentoo penguins as well as elephant seals await at Livingston Island.
The Antarctic Peninsula’s remarkable history will provide a type of excitement often only associated with the early explorers. Enjoy plenty of time to explore the continent’s amazing scenery, a pristine wilderness of snow, ice, mountains and waterways, and an incredible wide variety of wildlife. Apart from penguins and seabirds, hope to see Weddell, crabeater and leopard seals as well as minke, killer (orca) and humpback whales at close range. Navigate some of the most beautiful waterways (depending on ice conditions) like the Gerlache Strait, the Neumayer Channel and the Lemaire Channel. The latter are narrow passages between towering rock faces and spectacular glaciers.
Paradise Bay is perhaps the most aptly named place in the world and the ship’s Zodiacs will attempt a landing on the continent proper. After negotiating the iceberg-strewn waters of the Antarctic Sound, hope to visit the bustling Adélie penguin colony (over 100,000 pairs breed here) and blue-eyed cormorant colony on Paulet Island, where the Nordenskjöld expedition built a stone survival hut in 1903. Today its ruins have been taken over by nesting penguins. Further exploration may lead to the Melchior Island group, Cuverville Island, Portal Point, Neko Harbour, Pléneau Island and, if ice conditions permit, to Petermann Island for a visit to the southernmost colony of gentoo penguins.
Depart Antarctica and head north across the Drake Passage. Join lecturers and naturalists on deck in search for seabirds and whales and enjoy some final lectures. Take the chance to relax and reflect on the fascinating adventures of the past days on the way back to Ushuaia.
Arrive at the port of Ushuaia in the early morning and disembark the Ushuaia after breakfast.
Included
Voyage aboard the Ushuaia as indicated in the itinerary; all meals throughout the voyage aboard the Ushuaia; all shore excursions and activities throughout the voyage by Zodiac; program of lectures by noted naturalists and leadership by experienced expedition staff; all miscellaneous service taxes and port charges throughout the program; comprehensive pre-departure material; detailed post-expedition log.
Exclusions
Any airfare, whether on scheduled or charter flights; pre- and post land arrangements; transfers to/from the vessel; passport and visa expenses; government arrival and departure taxes; meals ashore; baggage, cancellation, personal insurance and insurance of any kind (strongly recommended); excess baggage charges and all items of a personal nature such as bar and beverage charges and telecommunication charges; and the customary gratuity at the end of the voyages (guidelines will be provided); possible fuel surcharge if price of crude oil is higher than USD $100/barrel.
Payment & Cancellation
In order to confirm this trip, a nonrefundable deposit of 30% is required per person at time of booking. The balance of the trip price is due 90 days before the departure date. Special holiday payment and cancellation terms may apply. Guests who must cancel their trip for any reason must do so in writing. Standard cancellations are subject to the following per-person penalties, based on number of days prior to departure:
Up to 90 days – 100% of deposit (may be applied as a future cruise credit)
89 to 0 days – 100% of total trip cost
Terms & Conditions
This trip is subject to AdventureSmith Explorations Terms and Conditions. Please read this information carefully and call us if you have any questions. A Traveler Information Form, which includes a release of liability, must be completed and signed by all travelers. Your Adventure Specialist will send you a unique link to complete this form along with a packing list and extensive pre-departure and travel insurance information upon booking confirmation.
Arrival & Departure
All 10-day Classic Antarctica itineraries begin and end in Ushuaia, Argentina (USH). We highly recommend arriving one day prior to your trip start date in case of any flight delay, cancellation or lost luggage issues. No ground transfers are provided in Ushuaia. Embarkation is at 4:00pm on Day 1 of the itinerary. The vessel will sail at 6:00pm and is not able to wait for missing passengers or luggage. Ushuaia’s port is located on Maipu Avenue. The main entrance to the pier is on Lasserre Street, opposite of the Hotel Albatross, about 15 minutes’ drive from the airport. The ship arrives at 7:00am on the final day of the expedition and disembarkation is normally at 8:00 or 8:30am. Plan flights to depart Ushuaia no earlier than 12:00pm noon on disembarkation day. If you would like assistance with international flights, please visit our Booking Flights resource page.
Activities
Activities included aboard this expedition include Zodiac cruises, hiking, land treks, glacier viewing and wildlife observation.
Room Configuration
In addition to listed Single cabin rates, select double-occupancy cabins may be available for single occupancy with a single supplement fee. Single travelers wishing to book a double-occupancy cabin may do so at 1.5x the per-person listed rate for twin cabins and 2x the per-person listed rate for suites in select cabins based upon availability. Suites and Superior #301 receive a 50% fare reduction for the third person. Shared accommodation can be arranged on request.
Families & Children
AdventureSmith recommends children be at least 10 years old to enjoy the Classic Antarctica cruise. A child (under 16 years) accompanied by two adults will be free of charge in a triple Superior cabin or triple Suite.
Travel Insurance
Emergency medical evacuation insurance is mandatory for this trip, with a minimum recommended coverage of $100,000 USD per person. In addition to the emergency evacuation insurance, we highly recommend our travelers protect their investment with travel insurance that includes trip cancellation and other benefits. Our partners at Travelex Insurance offer a variety of plans and policies to fit every trip and budget. For best value and coverage for pre-existing medical conditions, consider purchasing a policy at time of booking. Learn more about travel insurance or get a free quote.
Itinerary Notes
Read this itinerary as a guide only; the exact route and program varies according to ice, weather conditions, wildlife encountered and the captain’s discretion. Flexibility is the key to the success of any Antarctica expedition. Visits to research stations depend on final permission.
Weddell Sea Quest Itinerary
Ushuaia, ArgentinaUshuaia, Argentina
The 12-day Weddell Sea Quest operates round-trip from Ushuaia, Argentina, crossing the Drake Passage in both directions and spending three days exploring the Weddell Sea and three days exploring the Antarctic Peninsula.
Embark the Ushuaia in the afternoon and meet the expedition and lecture staff. After settling in, sail along the famous Beagle Channel and the scenic Mackinlay Pass.
Named after the renowned explorer, Sir Francis Drake, who sailed these waters in 1578, the Drake Passage also marks the Antarctic Convergence, a biological barrier where cold polar water sinks beneath the warmer northern waters. This creates a great upwelling of nutrients, which sustains the biodiversity of this region. The Drake Passage also marks the northern limit of many Antarctic seabirds.
As Ushuaia sails across the passage, onboard lecturers help to identify the amazing variety of seabirds, including many albatrosses following in the ship’s wake. The Ushuaia’s open bridge policy provides the option to join officers on the bridge and learn about navigation, watch for whales and enjoy the view. A full program of lectures will be offered as well. The first sightings of icebergs and snow-capped mountains indicate arrival at the South Shetland Islands, a group of twenty islands and islets first sighted in February 1819 by Captain William Smith of the brig Williams. With favorable conditions in the Drake Passage, lecturers and naturalists will accompany you ashore to experience the first encounter with the penguins and seals on day 3.
The Weddell Sea is where huge tabular icebergs roam. In some years, the Erebus & Terror Gulf and Weddell Sea are full with ice, making for exciting navigation. Get up early and go out on deck for a special Antarctic sunrise. Huge tabular bergs break from the Larsen, Ronne and Filchner ice shelves and combine with one-year-old and multi-year sea ice to produce a floating, undulating panorama of rugged ice scenery. All-white snow petrels are likely to be coursing over the floes, often joined by pintado petrels.
Possible visits may include Hope Bay, the Argentine Station Esperanza, Brown Bluff, Devil Island, Paulet Island, Snow Hill Island and Cape Well-Met on Vega Island. The numbers of Adélie penguins are breathtaking and there may be opportunities to spot juvenile Emperor Penguins riding ice floes. The expedition staff shares the exciting and bizarre tale of the first overwinter in this area of the Peninsula, the Swedish Antarctic Expedition of 1901-03 under the command of geologist Otto Nordenskjöld. His ship the Antarctic, under the command of the famous Norwegian whaling captain Carl Anton Larsen, was trapped in the ice and sank, but the men survived on different locations and even managed to carry out significant scientific research in the area.
Enjoy exploring the Antarctica Peninsula’s amazing scenery, a pristine wilderness of snow, ice, mountains and waterways and a wide variety of wildlife. Hope to encounter gentoo and chinstrap penguins alongside other seabirds, as well as Weddell, crabeater and leopard seals, Minke whales and orcas at close range.
Hope to navigate the Gerlache Strait, Errera Channel and Neumayer Channel. Possible landing sites may include: Paradise Bay, which is perhaps the most aptly named place in the world with its impressive glacial fronts and mountains, Cuverville Island, home of the biggest gentoo penguin colony in the Peninsula surrounded by glaciers and castellated icebergs, and the British Museum and Post office at Port Lockroy.
Further exploration leads to the volcanic South Shetland Islands, a haven for wildlife. Vast penguin rookeries and seals hauling out on the shorelines make every day unforgettable. The ship plans to sail into the flooded caldera of Deception Island, the largest of three recent volcanic centers in the South Shetlands. Once inside, the rising slope of the black, cinder-covered volcanic rim can be walked uphill to a spectacular vantage point. Also aim to visit the crescent-shaped island Half Moon, home to chinstrap penguins in breathtaking surroundings, in the entrance of Moon Bay between Greenwich and Livingston Islands.
Depart Antarctica and head north across the Drake Passage. Join lecturers and naturalists on deck in search for seabirds and whales and enjoy some final lectures. Take the chance to relax and reflect on the fascinating adventures of the past days on the way back to Ushuaia.
Arrive at the port of Ushuaia in the early morning and disembark the Ushuaia after breakfast.
Included
Voyage aboard the Ushuaia as indicated in the itinerary; all meals throughout the voyage aboard the Ushuaia; all shore excursions and activities throughout the voyage by Zodiac; program of lectures by noted naturalists and leadership by experienced expedition staff; all miscellaneous service taxes and port charges throughout the program; comprehensive pre-departure material; detailed post-expedition log.
Exclusions
Any airfare, whether on scheduled or charter flights; pre- and post land arrangements; transfers to/from the vessel; passport and visa expenses; government arrival and departure taxes; meals ashore; baggage, cancellation, personal insurance and insurance of any kind (strongly recommended); excess baggage charges and all items of a personal nature such as bar and beverage charges and telecommunication charges; and the customary gratuity at the end of the voyages (guidelines will be provided); possible fuel surcharge if price of crude oil is higher than USD $100/barrel.
Payment & Cancellation
In order to confirm this trip, a nonrefundable deposit of 30% is required per person at time of booking. The balance of the trip price is due 90 days before the departure date. Special holiday payment and cancellation terms may apply. Guests who must cancel their trip for any reason must do so in writing. Standard cancellations are subject to the following per-person penalties, based on number of days prior to departure:
Up to 90 days – 100% of deposit (may be applied as a future cruise credit)
89 to 0 days – 100% of total trip cost
Terms & Conditions
This trip is subject to AdventureSmith Explorations Terms and Conditions. Please read this information carefully and call us if you have any questions. A Traveler Information Form, which includes a release of liability, must be completed and signed by all travelers. Your Adventure Specialist will send you a unique link to complete this form along with a packing list and extensive pre-departure and travel insurance information upon booking confirmation.
Arrival & Departure
All 12-day Weddell Sea Quest itineraries begin and end in Ushuaia, Argentina (USH). We highly recommend arriving one day prior to your trip start date in case of any flight delay, cancellation or lost luggage issues. No ground transfers are provided in Ushuaia. Embarkation is at 4:00pm on Day 1 of the itinerary. The vessel will sail at 6:00pm and is not able to wait for missing passengers or luggage. Ushuaia’s port is located on Maipu Avenue. The main entrance to the pier is on Lasserre Street, opposite of the Hotel Albatross, about 15 minutes’ drive from the airport. The ship arrives at 7:00am on the final day of the expedition and disembarkation is normally at 8:00 or 8:30am. Plan flights to depart Ushuaia no earlier than 12:00pm noon on disembarkation day. If you would like assistance with international flights, please visit our Booking Flights resource page.
Activities
Activities included aboard this expedition include Zodiac cruises, hiking, land treks, glacier viewing and wildlife observation.
Room Configuration
In addition to listed Single cabin rates, select double-occupancy cabins may be available for single occupancy with a single supplement fee. Single travelers wishing to book a double-occupancy cabin may do so at 1.5x the per-person listed rate for twin cabins and 2x the per-person listed rate for suites in select cabins based upon availability. Suites and Superior #301 receive a 50% fare reduction for the third person. Shared accommodation can be arranged on request.
Families & Children
AdventureSmith recommends children be at least 10 years old to enjoy the Weddell Sea Quest cruise. A child (under 16 years) accompanied by two adults will be free of charge in a triple Superior cabin or triple Suite.
Travel Insurance
Emergency medical evacuation insurance is mandatory for this trip, with a minimum recommended coverage of $100,000 USD per person. In addition to the emergency evacuation insurance, we highly recommend our travelers protect their investment with travel insurance that includes trip cancellation and other benefits. Our partners at Travelex Insurance offer a variety of plans and policies to fit every trip and budget. For best value and coverage for pre-existing medical conditions, consider purchasing a policy at time of booking. Learn more about travel insurance or get a free quote.
Itinerary Notes
Read this itinerary as a guide only; the exact route and program varies according to ice, weather conditions, wildlife encountered and the captain’s discretion. Flexibility is the key to the success of any Antarctica expedition. Visits to research stations depend on final permission.
Polar Circle Quest Itinerary
Ushuaia, ArgentinaUshuaia, Argentina
The 12-day Polar Circle Quest operates round-trip from Ushuaia, Argentina, crossing the Drake Passage in both directions and spending six days exploring the Antarctic Peninsula with an attempt to cross the Polar Circle.
Embark the Ushuaia in the afternoon and meet the expedition and lecture staff. After settling in, sail along the famous Beagle Channel and the scenic Mackinlay Pass.
Named after the renowned explorer, Sir Francis Drake, who sailed these waters in 1578, the Drake Passage also marks the Antarctic Convergence, a biological barrier where cold polar water sinks beneath the warmer northern waters. This creates a great upwelling of nutrients, which sustains the biodiversity of this region. The Drake Passage also marks the northern limit of many Antarctic seabirds.
As Ushuaia sails across the passage, onboard lecturers help to identify the amazing variety of seabirds, including many albatrosses following in the ship’s wake. The Ushuaia’s open bridge policy provides the option to join officers on the bridge and learn about navigation, watch for whales and enjoy the view. A full program of lectures will be offered as well. The first sightings of icebergs and snow-capped mountains indicate arrival at the South Shetland Islands, a group of twenty islands and islets first sighted in February 1819 by Captain William Smith of the brig Williams. With favorable conditions in the Drake Passage, lecturers and naturalists will accompany you ashore to experience the first encounter with the penguins and seals on day 3.
Exquisite beauty and pristine landscapes await on the western side of the Antarctic Peninsula. Myriad icebergs with different shades and shapes are floating free in the waterways around the continent. Enjoy plenty of time to explore the amazing scenery and a wide variety of wildlife. Apart from Adélie, gentoo and chinstrap penguins, among other seabirds, hope to encounter Weddell, crabeater, fur and leopard seals as well as Minke whales and orcas at close range. At this time of year it is also very likely to encounter big cetaceans, such as humpback, Fin and Sei whales in the area.
Hope to navigate some of the most beautiful waterways the area has to offer, such as: the Gerlache Strait, Errera Channel, Neumayer Channel and the extremely narrow Lemaire Channel. Possible landing sites may include: Paradise Bay, which is perhaps the most aptly named place in the world with its impressive glacial fronts and mountains, Cuverville Island, home of the biggest gentoo penguin colony in the Peninsula surrounded by glaciers and castellated icebergs, and the British Museum and post office Port Lockroy.
The ship sets her sights south of the Lemaire Channel in quest of the Polar Circle, and might also stop at the Ukrainian Station Vernadsky, the former British base Faraday, where the ozone hole was first spotted, the rugged Yalour Islands and Detaille Island south of the Polar Circle.
En route North, explore the volcanic South Shetland Islands, a haven for wildlife. Vast penguin rookeries and seals hauling out on the shorelines make every day unforgettable. Sailing through the narrow passage into the flooded caldera of Deception Island is truly amazing, so is visiting the crescent-shaped island Half Moon, home to chinstrap penguins in breathtaking surroundings.
Depart Antarctica and head north across the Drake Passage. Join lecturers and naturalists on deck in search for seabirds and whales and enjoy some final lectures. Take the chance to relax and reflect on the fascinating adventures of the past days on the way back to Ushuaia.
Arrive at the port of Ushuaia in the early morning and disembark the Ushuaia after breakfast.
Included
Voyage aboard the Ushuaia as indicated in the itinerary; all meals throughout the voyage aboard the Ushuaia; all shore excursions and activities throughout the voyage by Zodiac; program of lectures by noted naturalists and leadership by experienced expedition staff; all miscellaneous service taxes and port charges throughout the program; comprehensive pre-departure material; detailed post-expedition log.
Exclusions
Any airfare, whether on scheduled or charter flights; pre- and post land arrangements; transfers to/from the vessel; passport and visa expenses; government arrival and departure taxes; meals ashore; baggage, cancellation, personal insurance and insurance of any kind (strongly recommended); excess baggage charges and all items of a personal nature such as bar and beverage charges and telecommunication charges; and the customary gratuity at the end of the voyages (guidelines will be provided); possible fuel surcharge if price of crude oil is higher than USD $100/barrel.
Payment & Cancellation
In order to confirm this trip, a nonrefundable deposit of 30% is required per person at time of booking. The balance of the trip price is due 90 days before the departure date. Special holiday payment and cancellation terms may apply. Guests who must cancel their trip for any reason must do so in writing. Standard cancellations are subject to the following per-person penalties, based on number of days prior to departure:
Up to 90 days – 100% of deposit (may be applied as a future cruise credit)
89 to 0 days – 100% of total trip cost
Terms & Conditions
This trip is subject to AdventureSmith Explorations Terms and Conditions. Please read this information carefully and call us if you have any questions. A Traveler Information Form, which includes a release of liability, must be completed and signed by all travelers. Your Adventure Specialist will send you a unique link to complete this form along with a packing list and extensive pre-departure and travel insurance information upon booking confirmation.
Arrival & Departure
All 12-day Polar Circle Quest itineraries begin and end in Ushuaia, Argentina (USH). We highly recommend arriving one day prior to your trip start date in case of any flight delay, cancellation or lost luggage issues. No ground transfers are provided in Ushuaia. Embarkation is at 4:00pm on Day 1 of the itinerary. The vessel will sail at 6:00pm and is not able to wait for missing passengers or luggage. Ushuaia’s port is located on Maipu Avenue. The main entrance to the pier is on Lasserre Street, opposite of the Hotel Albatross, about 15 minutes’ drive from the airport. The ship arrives at 7:00am on the final day of the expedition and disembarkation is normally at 8:00 or 8:30am. Plan flights to depart Ushuaia no earlier than 12:00pm noon on disembarkation day. If you would like assistance with international flights, please visit our Booking Flights resource page.
Activities
Activities included aboard this expedition include Zodiac cruises, hiking, land treks, glacier viewing and wildlife observation.
Room Configuration
In addition to listed Single cabin rates, select double-occupancy cabins may be available for single occupancy with a single supplement fee. Single travelers wishing to book a double-occupancy cabin may do so at 1.5x the per-person listed rate for twin cabins and 2x the per-person listed rate for suites in select cabins based upon availability. Suites and Superior #301 receive a 50% fare reduction for the third person. Shared accommodation can be arranged on request.
Families & Children
AdventureSmith recommends children be at least 10 years old to enjoy the Polar Circle Quest cruise. A child (under 16 years) accompanied by two adults will be free of charge in a triple Superior cabin or triple Suite.
Travel Insurance
Emergency medical evacuation insurance is mandatory for this trip, with a minimum recommended coverage of $100,000 USD per person. In addition to the emergency evacuation insurance, we highly recommend our travelers protect their investment with travel insurance that includes trip cancellation and other benefits. Our partners at Travelex Insurance offer a variety of plans and policies to fit every trip and budget. For best value and coverage for pre-existing medical conditions, consider purchasing a policy at time of booking. Learn more about travel insurance or get a free quote.
Itinerary Notes
Read this itinerary as a guide only; the exact route and program varies according to ice, weather conditions, wildlife encountered and the captain’s discretion. Flexibility is the key to the success of any Antarctica expedition. Visits to research stations depend on final permission.
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The 88-guest Ushuaia is one of the smallest ships operating in Antarctica. Originally built for the United States agency NOAA (National Oceanic & Atmospheric Administration), the ice-strengthened polar vessel is very well appointed with ample deck space and an open bridge policy that invites guests to observe the navigational operations of the ship. A full complement of inflatable landing craft ensures superb landings and wildlife viewing opportunities on the otherwise inaccessible Antarctic coastline to help maximize her passengers’ time on land.
Ushuaia Review
AdventureSmith Explorations’ Ushuaia review includes a detailed description of the small ship including deck plans and a photo gallery. Our Antarctica experts have been aboard nearly every first-class vessel in Antarctica. Please read our Ushuaia review below then contact our experts to compare the Ushuaia with other Antarctica ships, ice-class expedition ships offering Antarctica cruises.
Choose the Ushuaia ship for her small size, cabin sharing options, excellent expedition staff, ample on-land time and no frills atmosphere. With a low passenger count all guests can disembark at the same time, allowing for longer landings and shore excursions. The Ushuaia is competitively priced and offers cabin sharing options without single supplements, giving single travelers a more economical option.
Sustainability Aboard Ushuaia
Ushuaia operates within the parameters of the Antarctic Treaty System, including the Antarctic Treaty and the Protocol on the Environment and Annexes and IAATO guidelines. In this context, the protection of Antarctic wildlife as well as the respect for scientific research and the wish to keep Antarctica pristine are of utmost importance on Ushuaia voyages.
Part of the ship’s effort is dedicated to enhance the awareness and concern for the conservation of the Antarctic environment and its associated ecosystems by giving lectures and informal talks on board prior to arrival. Once ashore, passengers are accompanied by chosen scientists and guides, who love to share their knowledge. By offering her passengers the opportunity to experience the continent firsthand, Ushuaia creates a corps of ambassadors for the continued protection of Antarctica.
Common Areas Aboard Ushuaia
There are public outdoor viewing areas on multiple levels of the ship, most notable is the Panorama Deck, a large open deck providing the perfect place for wildlife and landscape viewing. The indoor public areas feature a large dining room accommodating all guests in a single seating. The open-plan observation lounge/lecture room shares views and utilizes modern multimedia equipment. Also found here is a space for simple gift purchases (no trip necessities), bar and a well-stocked library with books and games. A changing room and a small infirmary are aboard as well. Ushuaia is equipped with the INMARSAT system, which allows direct communication with the ship by telephone from any location in the world. There is also WiFi available for guest use in common areas, at added cost. Costs will be charged to guests' cabins to be paid at the end of the voyage. Emails without attachments can be sent and received at a charge, while emails with attachments, digital photos, etc. can be sent, but charges may be significant. Smoking permitted on exterior decks only.
Dining Aboard Ushuaia
Onboard chefs prepare excellent cuisine including many local specialties, and the bar is well-stocked with carefully selected wines and spirits. Breakfast includes a continental and American breakfast buffet, lunch is plated or buffet style and dinners are plated three-course meals. Coffee and tea are offered throughout the day. Most dietary restrictions can be accommodated (with the exception of Kosher meals), with prior notification. Casual expedition attire is the accepted apparel for the voyage and meals.
Crew & Guides Aboard Ushuaia
Ushuaia’s expert captain, officers and crew are highly experienced in Antarctic navigation and have a great love for nature. A specialist team of international expedition leaders and lecturers are all extremely knowledgeable, enthusiastic, helpful and dedicated to the protection of the environment. All of Ushuaia’s expedition staff speak English and Spanish fluently and lead daily briefings to summarize the experiences ashore. To ensure that the best qualified staff and field personnel are employed, Ushuaia continues to train and educate her guides and naturalists, requiring online field assessment and annual evaluations for all expedition leaders and assistants.
Activities Aboard Ushuaia
Each day, guides aim to make at least two landings with a duration of about three hours each, with longer walks available. With a full complement of inflatable landing craft, the Zodiac cruises are highlights of the trip, as these small vessels allow for a more intimate look at the landscape and wildlife. Each trip also plans to visit at least one of the scientific stations to get an inside look into the research taking place in Antarctica.
Each evening, the daily program for the next day will be presented by the expedition leader. Included in the program is information about the next day’s activities, events, landing times, meal times and lecturers and informative Antarctic themed movies are often shown en route to new locations. Rubber boots are provided on board free of charge, from size 35 (US 4) up to size 45 (US 11). Jackets and other gear are not provided.
Cabins & Deck Plan Aboard Ushuaia
Ushuaia has 46 comfortable cabins and suites, with ample storage space to accommodate 88 passengers. Both private and semi-private facilities, with hairdryers provided, are available depending upon cabin category. The Ushuaia is unique for her cabin sharing options without single supplements, giving single travelers a more economical option. The ship is fully climate controlled with individual temperature controls in each cabin. Cabins are fitted with multi-type sockets suitable for several international plugs; the electrical current on board is 110 V/60 Hz.
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