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A true expedition, our Antarctica Weddell Sea cruise sets out to explore the range of the Emperor Penguins near Snow Hill Island. We will visit the area via helicopter and see a variety of other birds and penguins including Adélies and Gentoos. Experience the bird’s-eye-view of Antarctica! Our helicopter capability on m/v Ortelius gives you the rare chance to see the famed emperor penguin rookery south of Snow Hill Island, numbering around 4,000 breeding pairs. Heavy ice may prevent entrance to this area from the Weddell Sea, and ice at the rookery itself might break up and start to melt earlier than expected. With this in mind, the aim is to stop the vessel between the Antarctic Sound and James Clark Ross Island, close to the ice edge, and find emperor penguins on their way to open water. The thrilling helicopter flights make this search possible, enabling you to land in locations otherwise inaccessible this early in the season. If ice conditions are favorable and the route to Snow Hill Island is free of multi-year pack ice, you have the chance for ship-to-shore helicopter transfers to Snow Hill Island (roughly 45 minutes walking distance from the emperor penguin rookery). If successful, this is a once-in-a-lifetime experience. But please remember that nature writes the final itinerary out here.
Important: At Green Planet Expeditions, we are deeply committed to preserving the pristine environment and wildlife of Antarctica. While helicopters are essential for accessing remote areas, we strictly adhere to regulations that prohibit any disturbance to wildlife. Helicopters maintain a safe distance from all animals and land only on designated pack-ice locations, far enough away to ensure no disruption to their natural behavior. A short walk from the landing site to the rookery is required, allowing us to observe wildlife responsibly and minimize our impact. On these Weddell Sea Antarctic voyages with emperor penguin encounters we prioritize the protection of Antarctica’s unique ecosystem and ask for your cooperation in respecting these guidelines. Together, we can enjoy this incredible continent while safeguarding its wildlife for future generations.
Your Antarctica Weddell Sea Cruise begins where the world drops off. Ushuaia, Argentina, reputed to be the southernmost city on the planet, is located on the far southern tip of South America. Starting in the afternoon, you embark from this small resort town on Tierra del Fuego, nicknamed “The End of the World,” and sail the mountain-fringed Beagle Channel for the remainder of the evening
For two days on the Drake Passage, embrace the same salt-sprayed winds and rolling seas that challenged early polar explorers. Watch for fin whales breaching in the swells. As you cross the Antarctic Convergence—where icy polar waters meet warmer seas—you’ll enter the nutrient-rich upwelling zone.
Here, marine and bird life shift dramatically. Spot albatrosses (wandering, grey-headed, and black-browed), cape pigeons, and storm petrels soaring over the waves. Keep binoculars ready—this is one of Antarctica’s richest birding areas.
Weddell Sea & Emperor Penguins
Sail into the Weddell Sea via the Antarctic Sound, where massive tabular icebergs signal your arrival. Search for emperor penguins by ship and helicopter, with possible scenic flights and remote landings.
This helicopter-assisted emperor penguin safari is a trip highlight and may include:
Antarctic Sound (West Slopes) – Rarely seen from the air, this area features glaciers, icebergs, and penguin-dotted ice floes alongside jagged peaks.
Duse Bay – A helicopter flight may land you near a historic hut, with lichen-covered rocks and icy vistas.
Seymour Island – A historic Swedish expedition site with fossils and sweeping sedimentary landscapes.
Deeper Weddell Sea Zodiac Trips (if conditions allow):
In the morning, you sail to Deception Island for the last landing of the voyage, either at Pendulum Cove or Whalers Bay. Conditions on the Drake Passage determine the exact time of departure.
Your return voyage on the Antarctica Weddell sea cruise is far from lonely. While crossing the Drake, you’re again greeted by the vast array of seabirds remembered from the passage south. But they seem a little more familiar to you now, and you to them.
Every adventure, no matter how grand, must eventually come to an end. It’s now time to disembark in Ushuaia, but with memories that will accompany you wherever your next adventure lies.
Our Antarctica Weddell Sea Cruise strictly adhere to guidelines set by the International Association of Antarctica Tour Operators (IAATO), ensuring minimal impact on emperor penguin habitats. From helicopter approach distances to on-land conduct, every detail is designed to protect Antarctica’s fragile ecosystems.”
🔗 Learn more: IAATO Visitor Guidelines
If you are looking for a more active trip check out all-inclusive Antarctica basecamp trip.
Expeditions include options for varied mobility levels, with Zodiac cruises for those preferring less physical activity. Witness the fragile beauty of Antarctica and learn how we support conservation efforts. A vast ecosystem with deep scientific and cultural significance.
| Pricing | 2025 | 2026 | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Quadruple Porthole | From $12,900 | From $13,400 | |
| Triple Porthole | From $14,750 | From $15,350 | |
| Twin Porthole | From $14,750 | From $15,350 | |
| Twin with Window | From $15,300 | From $15,900 | |
| Twin Deluxe | From $16,350 | From $17,350 | |
| Superior | From $17,150 | From $17.850 | |
| Junior Suite | Inquire | Inquire | |
| Grand Suite with Private Balcony | Inquire | Inquire |
| Start | End | Ship |
|---|---|---|
| 11/11/2025 | 21/11/2025 | Ortelius |
| 21/11/2025 | 01/12/2025 | Ortelius |
| 01/12/2025 | 12/12/2025 | Ortelius |
| 15/11/2026 | 25/11/2026 | Ortelius |
| 25/11/2026 | 05/12/2026 | Ortelius |
| 05/12/2026 | 15/12/2026 | Ortelius |
SINGLE TRAVELLER | CHILDREN Single travelers can choose between “single occupancy” at a supplement of 1,7 x the Twin or Superior cabin rate, or “sharing basis” in the Twin, Triple, or Quadruple category at no additional cost. Children under 16 with parents may receive 40% discount in Grand Suite, Superior, Triple (sharing with 2 parents/adults), and Quadruple Cabins (sharing with 3 parents/adults).
RATES All rates are quoted per person, based on twin occupancy. Please note that all dates & rates are subject to change. All voyages will operate subject to a minimum of 70 participants on Plancius and Ortelius and 90 participants on Hondius.
Embarkation and Disembarkation Location: Ushuaia
Antarctica Weddell Sea Cruise 2025 Legend and Notes (Subject to change)
All itineraries are for guidance only. Polar expeditions may vary depending on ice, weather, and wildlife conditions. Landings are subject to site availabilities, permissions, and environmental concerns per IAATO regulations. Official sailing plans and landing slots are scheduled with IAATO prior to the start of the season, but the expedition leader determines the final plan. Flexibility is paramount for expedition cruises. The average cruising speed of our vessel is 10.5 knots. If ice conditions are favorable and the route to Snow Hill Island is free of multi-year pack ice, you have the chance for ship-to-shore helicopter transfers to Snow Hill Island (roughly 45 minutes walking distance from the emperor penguin rookery). If successful, this is a once-in-a-lifetime experience. But please remember that nature writes the final itinerary out here: Attempts to reach Snow Hill Island during the voyages of 2012 – 19 did not always succeed. However, in 2013, 2017 until 2019, 2022 until 2024 conditions were favorable to land by helicopter on Snow Hill Island and to visit the emperor penguin rookery.
At Green Planet Expeditions, we craft strategically curated journeys that immerse travelers in the finest of nature, culture, and local traditions, always seeking out opportunities for exceptional dining experiences. Our expertise lies in tailor-made trips to destinations where we maintain close relationships with local partners, ensuring flawless execution with the assistance of passionate guides deeply connected to their heritage and committed to its preservation.
We believe that tourism, when harnessed thoughtfully, becomes a powerful catalyst for conservation and community upliftment in the destinations we visit.
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We offer a wide range of amazing trips that may not all be listed on our website. Plus, we can custom-build pretty much whatever your heart desires, so let us know what we can do for you. If you have any questions about our expedition cruises, private trips, or just want to talk travel, give us a call at 800-430-9498 or contact us via email at travel@greenplanetexpeditions.com
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