Antarctic Women's Expedition: Spirit of Antarctica
A women's-only voyage celebrating curiosity and leadership aboard the Sylvia Earle. Witness peak whale activity and explore the Antarctic Peninsula through Zodiac safaris and walks, engaging with the science, history, and unique beauty of this pristine continent.
Duration: 11 days / 10 nights Starts: Ushuaia, Argentina Ends: Ushuaia, Argentina Language: English speaking voyage
The itinerary is a guide only and is subject to change due to weather, sea state and other conditions beyond our control. Your Captain and Expedition Leader will make the necessary adjustments to ensure the best possible experience.
Not only we travel from one point to another and find our shelter on board the ship we chose. We also enjoy from incredible scenery, landscapes and interactions that only our noble vessel can provide.
Everyday the Bridge Team navigates the ship to position ourselves on the best posible spots, looking for unique opportunities.
Many times, this includes sainig through narrow passages, on the vicinity of glaciers or entering bays and fjords only approachable from the ship.
Enjoy this incredible places from the comfort of the common areas on board, open decks or your own private balcony!
Shore excursions are the backbone of almost all itineraries, with most ships making landfall at least once every day once they reach their destination. The weather plays a huge role in your daily itinerary, although given the sheer array of fantastic landing sites all over there are plenty of options your Captain and Expedition Leader can choose from. On-shore excursions allow you to visit scientific research stations, communities, prominent wildlife colonies and take hikes to elevated viewing points for fantastic photography.
The photography workshops are composed of onboard lectures and practical activities led by dedicated expedition guide. Each session is meant to give you additional skills you can put into immediate practice out in nature.
You'll become more familiar with your own camera equipment while also learning best practices for taking pictures of moving wildlife and wide-open terrain in typical polar conditions, such as dim lighting and falling snow.
On board the Zodiac you will discover a world of possibilities; accessing the most exclusive landing sites, cruising the coast in search of wildlife or simply enjoying a tour in the calm of the polar regions in search of marine wildlife or bird colonies.
The blue ice an its intimate presence is experienced at its best on zodiac tours.
It is not uncommon to meet curious seals, or humpback whales feeding.
Expedition cruising must be one of the most incredible ways of travelling. Not only for the amazing places you visit and the unforgetable wildlife but for the wildlife, the sensory overload and the unimaginable memories.
But all of this needs a context in order to understand where you are and what you are experiencing.
On board your expedition vessell you will find a group of experts, naturalists, zodiac drivers and guides that that will translate the language of nature for you, telling you the stories of the places you are visiting, reviewing the historical, biological, ecological and geological aspects of your trips.
You will experience first hand what surrounds you and arrive back home wiser and loaded with new knowledge.
Hiking options include very easy beach hikes (good for photographers who need time for photography), easier short hikes, medium-difficulty extended hikes, and more challenging long hikes.
The ultimate icy challenge! The Polar Plunge is a classic rite of passage for every explorer, it is a heart-pumping experience that earns you a badge of courage and unforgettable memories.
Witness wildlife and scenery unlike any other place on earth. Through crystal clear waters you’ll discover the amazing mobility and speed of penguins entering and exiting from the ice, marvel at beautiful sculpted icebergs below the water and witness marine life such as crustaceans, isopods, starfish and nudibranchs!
With a longstanding tradition of pushing the boundaries, Aurora Expeditions launched our Antarctic snorkelling adventures in 2014. In 2016 the activity has also been added to a range of our Arctic expeditions. This unique experience will allow passengers to see both destinations in a completely new dimension, witnessing wildlife and scenery unlike any other place on earth.
The experience of sea kayaking in the humbling wilderness of Antarctica or the Arctic is guaranteed to stir your soul.
Sea kayaking is one of the highlights for any Polar Traveller, providing ice and weather conditions are assessed as safe by your Expedition Team.
This activity requires previous kayaking experience.
Paddle Excursion Program provides sit-on-top, two-person, inflatable kayaks that provide guests with an intimate, water-level experience in unforgettable locations in both the Arctic and Antarctica. These stable, rugged and comfortable crafts are an ideal way to see the polar regions from a different perspective. On-ship, you'll be provided with instruction and equipment including dry suits, personal flotation devices (PFDs), and waterproof gloves. Experienced guides will lead you safely throughout the paddling excursion. Your group will always be escorted by a safety driver in another kayak who will stay close by to provide additional support.
Antarctica and the sub-Antarctic Islands are some of the last unspoiled regions of the world. The mysterious White Continent, with its multi-colored ice caps, glistening glaciers, and towering snow-capped mountains, offers unparalleled scenery and photographic opportunities. Enormous numbers of penguins, whales, seals, and seabirds congregate in the food-rich waters along the Antarctic and sub-Antarctic shores.
In the Arctic, the dives in the polar areas vary from shallow ice diving, where we dive near the ice-floes (approx. 9 meters, 30 feet) to shore diving, where we dive to approximately nine to 18 meters (30 to 60 feet). The combination of sunlight, sea water, and the often extraordinary formations of ice.
The chances of diving are subject to weather, wildlife and sea ice conditions.
The Antarctic Women's Expedition aboard the Sylvia Earle is designed as a celebration of curiosity, resilience, and the unique perspectives women bring to exploration, science, and leadership. This voyage is more than just witnessing the majestic beauty of icebergs, penguins, and whales; it’s an invitation to engage deeply with the science, history, and environmental questions facing our planet today. The experience is enhanced by focusing on women in conservation and providing a range of excursion options catering to all interests, from leisurely walks to strenuous hikes and water-based activities like kayaking.
Sailing at the peak time for whale activity, particularly humpbacks, expeditioners have an exceptional chance to witness the beauty of nature. With approximately 18 hours of daylight on the western side of the Antarctic Peninsula, the experienced team will design the voyage day by day, maximizing opportunities for Zodiac cruises along spectacular ice cliffs and landings at penguin rookeries and historic huts. Onboard amenities, including the sauna, jacuzzis, and gym, complement the adventure. The expedition is underpinned by strong biosecurity protocols and a commitment to flexibility, encouraging an adventurous attitude from all fellow female travelers.
Highlights:
Exclusive women’s-only expedition aboard the Sylvia Earle
Celebrate women in conservation and leadership
Sail at the peak time for whale activity, particularly humpbacks
Range of excursion options: Zodiac cruises, walks, and optional kayaking
Opportunity to join the exclusive Polar Plunge club
Day 1: Arrival in Ushuaia, Argentina
Pre-voyage Logistics and Leisure
Upon arrival in Ushuaia, you will be transferred to your assigned pre-voyage hotel. If already in Ushuaia, guests must make their way to the hotel. An Aurora Expeditions hospitality desk will be open from 3:00 pm to 7:00 pm for collecting luggage tags, confirming embarkation details, and signing up for the optional Lake Escondido tour. The remainder of the day is at leisure, with meals at your own expense.
Day 2: Embarkation and Scenic Drive Option
Andes Mountains, Fuegian Lamb, and Sailing
After breakfast and check-out, cabin luggage will be transferred directly to the port. Guests joining the optional Lake Escondido tour will enjoy an unforgettable panoramic drive through glacial valleys, forests, waterfalls, and rivers in the vast Andes Mountain Range. The tour includes reaching Garibaldi Pass for panoramic views of Lake Escondido and Fagnano Lake's shore, where you can enjoy a typical Fuegian Lamb barbecue. Alternatively, guests will be transferred to the pier for embarkation. Once settled, mandatory briefings will take place, followed by a welcome dinner as the ship pulls away from port, offering spectacular views over Ushuaia.
Days 3-4: Drake Passage Crossing
Lectures, Seabirds, and First Iceberg Sighting
As the Drake Passage crossing commences, the expedition team will prepare you for the first landing with important wildlife guidelines and biosecurity procedures. The lecture program begins, covering Antarctica’s history, wildlife, and environment. Wildlife experiences include watching and photographing majestic albatrosses and giant petrels following the vessel. Nearing the South Shetland Islands on Day 4, the excitement builds as you enter the Antarctic Convergence, surrounded by the surreal presence of floating ice sculptures, possibly attempting the first landing in the late afternoon.
Days 5-8: Exploring the Antarctic Peninsula
Zodiac Excursions, Shore Landings, and Polar Plunge
Arriving in Antarctica offers approximately 18 hours of daylight for extensive exploration of the western side of the Antarctic Peninsula and the South Shetland Islands. The experienced expedition team will use their expertise to design the voyage daily, aiming for two landings or Zodiac excursions per day. Activities include cruising along ice cliffs, watching for whales, seals, and penguins, visiting rookeries, and exploring historic huts. Guests can stretch their legs on snow-covered ridgelines, participate in optional add-on activities, or take the exhilarating Polar Plunge. Ship cruising narrow straits allows for enjoying the observation lounges or the bridge for views of glaciers calving into the sea.
Days 9-10: Drake Passage Crossing
Final Morning Landing and Reflection
The return journey begins after a final morning landing opportunity in the South Shetland Islands. Lectures and film presentations conclude the Antarctic experience, allowing time for reflection and discussion about the sights and experiences. As the ship approaches the tip of South America, the Captain may sail close to the legendary Cape Horn, conditions permitting.
Day 11: Disembarkation in Ushuaia
Arrival in Ushuaia and Onward Travel
The ship cruises up the Beagle Channel during the early morning, quietly docking in Ushuaia for disembarkation around 8:00 am. Transportation to the hotel is arranged for guests who booked accommodations through Aurora or are staying in downtown areas. Guests with flights before 12:30 pm will be transferred directly to Ushuaia Airport, while those with later flights can explore Ushuaia before an afternoon transfer.
Itinerary
Day 1: Arrival in Ushuaia, Argentina
Pre-voyage Logistics and Leisure
Upon arrival in Ushuaia, you will be transferred to your assigned pre-voyage hotel. If already in Ushuaia, guests must make their way to the hotel. An Aurora Expeditions hospitality desk will be open from 3:00 pm to 7:00 pm for collecting luggage tags, confirming embarkation details, and signing up for the optional Lake Escondido tour. The remainder of the day is at leisure, with meals at your own expense.
Day 2: Embarkation and Scenic Drive Option
Andes Mountains, Fuegian Lamb, and Sailing
After breakfast and check-out, cabin luggage will be transferred directly to the port. Guests joining the optional Lake Escondido tour will enjoy an unforgettable panoramic drive through glacial valleys, forests, waterfalls, and rivers in the vast Andes Mountain Range. The tour includes reaching Garibaldi Pass for panoramic views of Lake Escondido and Fagnano Lake's shore, where you can enjoy a typical Fuegian Lamb barbecue. Alternatively, guests will be transferred to the pier for embarkation. Once settled, mandatory briefings will take place, followed by a welcome dinner as the ship pulls away from port, offering spectacular views over Ushuaia.
Days 3-4: Drake Passage Crossing
Lectures, Seabirds, and First Iceberg Sighting
As the Drake Passage crossing commences, the expedition team will prepare you for the first landing with important wildlife guidelines and biosecurity procedures. The lecture program begins, covering Antarctica’s history, wildlife, and environment. Wildlife experiences include watching and photographing majestic albatrosses and giant petrels following the vessel. Nearing the South Shetland Islands on Day 4, the excitement builds as you enter the Antarctic Convergence, surrounded by the surreal presence of floating ice sculptures, possibly attempting the first landing in the late afternoon.
Days 5-8: Exploring the Antarctic Peninsula
Zodiac Excursions, Shore Landings, and Polar Plunge
Arriving in Antarctica offers approximately 18 hours of daylight for extensive exploration of the western side of the Antarctic Peninsula and the South Shetland Islands. The experienced expedition team will use their expertise to design the voyage daily, aiming for two landings or Zodiac excursions per day. Activities include cruising along ice cliffs, watching for whales, seals, and penguins, visiting rookeries, and exploring historic huts. Guests can stretch their legs on snow-covered ridgelines, participate in optional add-on activities, or take the exhilarating Polar Plunge. Ship cruising narrow straits allows for enjoying the observation lounges or the bridge for views of glaciers calving into the sea.
Days 9-10: Drake Passage Crossing
Final Morning Landing and Reflection
The return journey begins after a final morning landing opportunity in the South Shetland Islands. Lectures and film presentations conclude the Antarctic experience, allowing time for reflection and discussion about the sights and experiences. As the ship approaches the tip of South America, the Captain may sail close to the legendary Cape Horn, conditions permitting.
Day 11: Disembarkation in Ushuaia
Arrival in Ushuaia and Onward Travel
The ship cruises up the Beagle Channel during the early morning, quietly docking in Ushuaia for disembarkation around 8:00 am. Transportation to the hotel is arranged for guests who booked accommodations through Aurora or are staying in downtown areas. Guests with flights before 12:30 pm will be transferred directly to Ushuaia Airport, while those with later flights can explore Ushuaia before an afternoon transfer.
All airport transfers mentioned in the itinerary.
One night’s hotel accommodation including breakfast, in Ushuaia on Day 1.
Lake Escondido tour in Ushuaia, on Day 2.
Onboard accommodation during voyage, including daily cabin service.
All meals, snacks, tea, coffee, soft drinks and juices during voyage.
Beer and house wine with dinner.
Captain’s Farewell reception including four-course dinner, house cocktails, house beer and wine, non-alcoholic beverages.
All shore excursions and Zodiac cruises.
Educational lectures and guiding services provided by Expedition Team.
Complimentary access to onboard expedition doctor and medical clinic (initial consultation).
One 3-in-1 waterproof, polar expedition jacket.
Complimentary use of Muck Boots during the voyage.
Comprehensive pre-departure information.
Port surcharges, permits and landing fees.
Wi-Fi*.
* Please note we travel to remote regions and therefore the connection can be unreliable.
EXCLUSIONS
International or domestic flights – unless specified in the itinerary.
Transfers – unless specified in the itinerary.
Airport arrival or departure taxes.
Passport, visa, reciprocity and vaccination fees and charges.
Travel insurance or emergency evacuation charges.
Hotel accommodation and meals – unless specified in the itinerary.
Optional excursions and optional activity surcharges.
All items of a personal nature, including but not limited to alcoholic beverages (outside of dinner service), gratuities, laundry services, personal clothing, medical expenses or phone charges.
Note: A $15 USD per person per day gratuity for the crew is automatically added to your onboard account. It is at your discretion if you would like to remove the tip (or adjust the amount) when you settle your bill. It is not necessary to tip the expedition team members. This gratuity amount is included for suites as part of their ‘Suite Benefits’.
Cabin size: 22.7m2
There are two Aurora Stateroom Twin cabins featuring portholes, all with private en-suites. Located on Deck 3, they\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\'re close to the mudroom and loading platforms, perfect for adventurers who are looking for a comfortable base that\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\'s close to the action.
May be converted into a Triple Share cabin with additional bed on request.
1 x mug per person
1 x drink bottle per person
1 x 3-in-1 polar jacket per person (polar voyages only)
1 x drybag backpack per person (Costa Rica & Panama Canal only)
Aurora Stateroom Superior $17,595
Ship: Sylvia Earle | Cabin: Aurora Stateroom Superior
Cabin size: 19.9m2
With a bit more room to stretch the legs, the Aurora Stateroom Superior are perfect for polar adventurers who travel with plenty of gear.
Located on Deck 7, the Staterooms feature french balconies, floor to ceiling windows, en-suite bathrooms and a comfortable desk area.
1 x mug per person
1 x drink bottle per person
1 x 3-in-1 polar jacket per person (polar voyages only)
1 x drybag backpack per person (Costa Rica & Panama Canal only)
Balcony Cat. C $17,995
Ship: Sylvia Earle | Cabin: Balcony Cat. C
Cabin & balcony combined size: 20.9m2 - 24.2m2
We have three cabin categories of our Balcony Staterooms. These are classified as A, B or C depending on the cabin size.
Our 11 Balcony Stateroom – C cabins are our most economical, fitted with all the necessities and comfortable for up to 2 people. These cabins are scattered throughout Deck 6.
1 x mug per person
1 x drink bottle per person
1 x 3-in-1 polar jacket per person (polar voyages only)
1 x drybag backpack per person (Costa Rica & Panama Canal only)
Balcony Cat. B $18,995
Ship: Sylvia Earle | Cabin: Balcony Cat. B
Cabin & balcony combined size: 23.9m2 - 24.2m2
We have three cabin categories of our Balcony Staterooms. These are classified as A, B or C depending on the cabin size.
Our 17 Balcony Stateroom – B Cabins are our standard cabin, many fitted with interconnecting features making them great for families or groups. These cabins are located at the fore and aft of Deck 4 and 6.
1 x mug per person
1 x drink bottle per person
1 x 3-in-1 polar jacket per person (polar voyages only)
1 x drybag backpack per person (Costa Rica & Panama Canal only)
Balcony Cat. A $20,395
Ship: Sylvia Earle | Cabin: Balcony Cat. A
Cabin & balcony combined size: 29.2m2 - 35.2m2
With a bit more room to stretch the legs, the Balcony Stateroom Superior cabins are perfect for polar adventurers who travel with plenty of gear.
Located on Deck 4 and 6, the Staterooms feature floor to ceiling windows, en-suite bathrooms and a comfortable desk area.
Some of these rooms are equipped with wheelchair accessible bathrooms.
1 x mug per person
1 x drink bottle per person
1 x 3-in-1 polar jacket per person (polar voyages only)
1 x drybag backpack per person (Costa Rica & Panama Canal only)
Balcony Stateroom Superior $22,295
Ship: Sylvia Earle | Cabin: Balcony Stateroom Superior
Cabin & balcony combined size: 29.2m2 - 35.2m2
With a bit more room to stretch the legs, the Balcony Stateroom Superior cabins are perfect for polar adventurers who travel with plenty of gear.
Located on Deck 4 and 6, the Staterooms feature floor to ceiling windows, en-suite bathrooms and a comfortable desk area.
Some of these rooms are equipped with wheelchair accessible bathrooms.
1 x mug per person
1 x drink bottle per person
1 x 3-in-1 polar jacket per person (polar voyages only)
1 x drybag backpack per person (Costa Rica & Panama Canal only)
Junior Suite $26,595
Ship: Sylvia Earle | Cabin: Junior Suite
Cabin & balcony combined size: 41.6m2
The four Junior Suites take in some impressive scenery from their vantage points on Deck 7. When you aren\\\'t enjoying a landing, you can relax in the suites\\\' separate lounge area, or just watch the world float by from the private balcony.
1 x mug per person
1 x drink bottle per person
1 x 3-in-1 polar jacket per person (polar voyages only)
1 x drybag backpack per person (Costa Rica voyages only)
1 x free pair of binoculars per suite
1-hour spa treatment (per person)*
Free stocked mini bar^
Gratuities/tips for crew included – to the value of AUD$15 per person per day
1 x free bottle of champagne per suite
*Valid on 1-hour massage or facial treatment only. Further details provided on board.
^Balcony Suites and Junior Suites stocked once only, not replenished. Captain’s Suite replenished as needed.
Captain´s Suite $30,395
Ship: Sylvia Earle | Cabin: Captain´s Suite
Cabin & balcony combined size: 43.1m2
The largest of all our rooms, the singular Captain\\\\\\\'s Suite will take you to the polar regions in ultimate style and comfort. Complete with large lounge area, balcony, walk-in wardrobe and en-suite, you\\\\\\\'ll need to get in early to secure this suite.
1 x mug per person
1 x drink bottle per person
1 x 3-in-1 polar jacket per person (polar voyages only)
1 x drybag backpack per person (Costa Rica voyages only)
1 x free pair of binoculars per suite
1-hour spa treatment (per person)*
Free stocked mini bar^
Gratuities/tips for crew included – to the value of AUD$15 per person per day
1 x free bottle of champagne per suite
*Valid on 1-hour massage or facial treatment only. Further details provided on board.
^Balcony Suites and Junior Suites stocked once only, not replenished. Captain’s Suite replenished as needed.
* The prices are per person in US Dollars, unless expressly specified in a different currency. In that case, payment will be in US dollars at the exchange rate of the day.
** Rates are correct at the time of publication. All prices will be re-confirmed by email at the time of booking.
NOTE: Embracing the unexpected is part of the legacy—and excitement—of expedition travel. When traveling in extremely remote regions, your expedition staff must allow the sea, the ice and the weather to guide route and itinerary details. This itinerary is a tentative outline of what you’ll experience on this voyage; please be aware that no specific itinerary can be guaranteed.