Classic Antarctica Cruise: MV Ushuaia

Name: Classic Antarctica Cruise: MV Ushuaia
Brand: Expeditions Online
SKU: 24
Rating: 80 (15 reviews)

Antarctic Peninsula

The best value Antarctic expedition cruise and the ideal introduction to the White Continent! Sail from Ushuaia to Antarctica on a small ship to take best advantage of the amazing wildlife and spectacular scenery with a truly unique and unforgettable experience. With a maximum of 90 passengers everyone lands at the same time. Discover busy penguin colonies, spectacular seabirds, seals and whales amidst the imposing mountain ranges, ice-filled channels, and beautifully shaped icebergs and glaciers of the Antarctic Peninsula

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Highlights of this Antarctic Expedition

Ideal first Antarctic expedition
Majestic mountains, ice and scenery of the Antarctic Peninsula
Small and ice strengthened Antarctic cruise ship
Learn about Antarctica with expert onboard lecturers
See Antarctica’s wildlife such as penguins, seals and whales.

The ideal expedition ship, with less than 100 passengers, this small, ice-strengthened polar vessel gives more flexibility for landings and everyone goes ashore at the same time. The staff and crew of the MV Ushuaia are renowned for their friendliness and enthusiasm and willingness to give you the best travel experience in Antarctica!

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80 % of reviewers liked this tour.

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Mar 08 2023

The staff were creative, accommodating and flexible. A smallship (90 guests) allowed a much better experience.

Feb 02 2023

The small ship M/V Ushuaia took us into places larger ships can't go. Crew and passengers were very friendly and helpful.

Jan 14 2023

Truly a once-in-a-lifetime experience. What could be more amazing than getting to visit Antarctica, especially with multiple activities a day of touring some scenic area by Zodiac or on foot, seeing penguins and seals and whales up close in all their fascinating behaviors, and even celebrating a _very_ white Christmas on the snowy terrain.

What made the experience even more amazing was the time spent on the boat, getting to know all the great folks during meals and lectures and downtime. Going for a smaller boat, with fewer than 80 passengers, not only meant everyone got to spend more time out on the excursions, but most importantly allowed us to get to know our fellow expeditioners/Antarcticans with whom we spent these 11 days.

Sure, there were a couple days when conditions didn't allow for all the planned activities - never got to do a polar plunge, and the expedition didn't include any opportunities for spending a night on the continent and such - but just getting to be there and soak it all in feels like a dream come true.

Jan 13 2023

friendly, caring, attentive.

Being vegetarians, wish we had known how to contact dining staff before departure to give them suggestions about our tastes since they were ready to meet our needs.

Dec 02 2022

Not a good quality/price ratio

Nov 28 2022

Because it was perfect, other than the weather

Nov 28 2022

Everything was perfect and really smooth. The Expedition Staff is been amazing

Nov 28 2022

They are the best. Perfect team.

Mar 04 2022

Haven't gone yet 123456789

Jan 06 2020

Friendly staff and loved being on smaller ship so we could get on land alot. Because it was an older ship it did not have some of the luxuries a modern ship would have but that didn't take away from this trip- the staff made up for it.

Feb 15 2018

雖然事先已經知道是上下鋪，但上鋪或下鋪都沒有坐直的空間，讓人不太舒服。

Feb 13 2018

The overall experience was amazing, and yet this word cannot encompass the real feeling of being there and seeing the beautiful nature and landscapes in Antarctica. I must highlight the great attitude and willingness of all the staff members, crew, hotel and expedition guides. The atmosphere was always friendly and made passengers feel comfortable. The decision taken to wait before entering Deception Island was a wise choice by the expedition leader and the captain.

However, there are a few areas in which I was not satisfied. The following is a comprehensive critic describing facts. I intended to produce a constructive feedback to be considered and help improve different areas. In some parts I refer to the Welcome aboard the Ushuaia leaflet.

1. The expedition guides quality of presentations and level of English were questionable. You have written that you selected them for their professional accomplishments and reputation (Lecturers section, page 5). However, the level of English of almost all of them was below average. Many times they could not structure adequately a simple sentence, they did not know basic words and pronunciation was poor. Frequently passengers had to help them, which is not expected from reputable professionals. Similarly, the quality of the Power Point presentations was poor. Not high contrast between background and text (considering that the room used for lectures allows a lot of light from the windows), flow of content was disorganised, lecturers did not engage with all the passengers, and lecturers walking around while crossing the Drake Passage affected their focus, so the presentations were actually long and boring.

Additionally, there were frequent problems and delays when handling multimedia equipment before every presentation. Professionals will always be prepared and have experience handling such equipment.

2. The expedition leader’s level of English. Knowing that most of the passengers are non-Spanish speakers, the level of English expected was much more than the one observed. Even more knowing that the expedition leader’s wife is a language teacher. Regarding his presentation, it started with three videos from YouTube that anyone could watch another time. It lasted one hour but there was an obvious lack of content and it seemed that including the videos was only for the sake of having a one-hour lecture.

One day the expedition leader organised a competition as we approached the peninsula, which made people feel more engaged and excited after two full days of sailing. Unfortunately, they called it off after one of the explorer guides “won”, which was really strange and honestly seemed staged. I approached to one expedition guide who was actually registering my name for the competition, then he approached to another guide to ask him the procedure to register entries, however the latter said that the competition was called off. I was upset because they did not informed us, so I came forward to discuss it with the expedition leader, but he simply said that it was called off, which was very disappointing.

3. In the Wildlife Watch section (page 8), you have written “…if we are fortunate enough to sight wildlife, we will announce it from the bridge, regardless of the hour. If you wish to go back to sleep please do so!”. It was a shame that sight happened and it was actually not announced. Moreover, later on the day the expedition leader informed everyone that there was a sight but that they decided not to announce it because it was at 4 am! I believe that was outrageous.

4. I have seen videos in which passengers travelling with other agencies/ships actually go in the zodiacs and approach whales for a beautiful experience. In our trip there were two occasions in which it was possible to do the same. In one the captain even slowed down and turned back but the decision of the zodiacs was not taken. In another trip organised to go around in the zodiacs, there were three groups of two zodiacs going to different routes in the same bay. On the radio I heard that there was a whale sighting, I even saw it in the distance and how two zodiacs went into that direction. I asked the driver (crew member) why we could not go as well, and he simply said that zodiacs should always remain in pairs (?). I understand that, but that is why they have radios and actually communicated that there was a sighting. I also understand safety, but to be honest, there is no risk in approaching to a certain distance to be able to see a whale from sea level. If you do not plan it, then it will simply never happen. Decisions should be taken to make it happen.

5. In the Zodiac safety guidelines, number 8 reads (page 9): “Please remain seated while taking photographs. Your zodiac driver will often stop to enable you to take pictures”. Most zodiacs’ drivers were crew members and they could not keep order in terms of reminding people to remain seated for safety reasons, either because they did not speak English, or they felt it was not their responsibility.

6. We were provided with a leaflet called Guidance for Visitors to the Antarctic per person. It is not necessary and most of the people did not read it. I strongly believe it is a waste of paper and ink.

To sum up, my feedback is: do not oversell or say things will happen when they actually will not. It causes people to feel deceived and highly doubt about the quality and reliability of your services. Something was expected but facts showed something different and that left a negative impression.

Expedition guides and crew members are the ultimately point in direct contact with the passengers. For many of us this was the trip of our lives and nowadays every passenger is a blogger commenting and rating everything. Your staff should be fully aware of this to provide an excellent service and experience.

It was a beautiful experience and I am very thankful you helped me to make it possible. I know I want to do it again and I would love to travel with you again because the overall experience was positive from the very beginning, but honestly the points previously highlighted should be improved/taken into consideration.

Jul 26 2017

Мы до сих пор с восторгом вспоминаем нашу чудесную поездку на корабле "Ушуайя". Очень внимательный экипаж, команда экспедиции, ее лидер Моника. Отдельное спасибо повару, официантам. Все было безупречно. Еда как в самых лучших ресторанах.

Jul 26 2017

Excellent staff, did all they could to enhance this fantastic experience. The booking process and communication from Stewart Campbell before the trip was exceptional.

Jul 26 2017

good...good...good...good...

Stewart's Take

This small vessel is not only offers more flexibility and landing time in Antarctica, but is outstanding value for your money and one of the cheapest ways to visit Antarctica.

Overview

The best value Antarctic expedition cruise and the ideal introduction to the White Continent! Sail from Ushuaia to Antarctica on a small ship to take best advantage of the amazing wildlife and spectacular scenery with a truly unique and unforgettable experience. With a maximum of 90 passengers everyone lands at the same time. Discover busy penguin colonies, spectacular seabirds, seals and whales amidst the imposing mountain ranges, ice-filled channels, and beautifully shaped icebergs and glaciers of the Antarctic Peninsula.

ITINERARY Day 1: Ushuaia Embark the Antarctic cruise ship MV Ushuaia and meet your expedition and lecture staff. After you have settled into your cabins we sail from Argentina to Antarctica along the famous Beagle Channel and the scenic Mackinlay Pass, beginning your Antarctic expedition cruise. Day 2 - 3: Crossing the Drake Passage Named after the renowned explorer, Sir Francis Drake, who sailed these waters in 1578, the Drake Passage also marks the Antarctic Convergence, creating a great upwelling of nutrients which sustains the biodiversity of this region. On this Antarctica voyage, as we sail across the passage, the lecturers will be out with you on deck to help in the identification of Antarctica’s wildlife. The Ushuaia’s open bridge policy allows you to join our officers on the bridge and learn about navigation (or just enjoy the view!). Upon reaching the South Shetland Islands - a group of twenty islands and islets - you’ll be met with sightings of stunning icebergs and picturesque snow-capped mountains. With favourable conditions in the Drake Passage our lecturers and naturalists will accompany you ashore as you experience your first encounter with the penguins and seals on Day 3. Days 4 to 7* or 8: Antarctic Peninsula and the South Shetland Islands 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 breathtaking. King George Island, the largest of the South Shetland Islands, features colonies of nesting Gentoo and Chinstrap Penguins, Kelp Gulls, Blue-eyed Cormorants, Antarctic Terns and Southern Giant Petrels and is home to scientific bases of many different countries. Chinstrap and Gentoo Penguins as well as elephant seals await you at Livingston Island. The Antarctic Peninsula’s remarkable history will provide you with a type of excitement often only associated with the early explorers. You will have plenty of time to explore its amazing scenery, a pristine wilderness of snow, ice, mountains and waterways, and an incredible wide variety of wildlife. Apart from penguins and seabirds you are very likely to see Weddell, crabeater and leopard seals as well as Minke, killer (orca) and humpback whales at close range. We hope to navigate some of the most beautiful waterways (depending on the ice conditions): the Gerlache Strait, the Neumayer Channel, and the LEMAIRE CHANNEL, the latter are narrow passages between towering rock faces and spectacular glaciers. We plan to make at least two landings per day and possible landing sites may include: PARADISE BAY - Perhaps the most aptly named place in the world and here we attempt a landing on the continent proper! After negotiating the iceberg-strewn waters of ANTARCTIC SOUND, we hope to visit the bustling Adélie Penguin (over 100,000 pairs breed here) and Blue-eyed Cormorant colonies on Paulet Island. The Nordenskjöld expedition built a stone survival hut here in 1903. Today its ruins have been taken over by nesting penguins. Further exploration may take you to the MELCHIOR ISLAND group, CUVERVILLE ISLAND, PORTAL POINT, NEKO HARBOUR, PLENEAU ISLAND and if ice conditions permit, to PETERMAN ISLAND for a visit to the southernmost colony of Gentoo Penguins. Days 8-9* or 9-10: Drake Passage We leave Antarctica and head north across the Drake Passage. Join our lecturers and naturalists on deck as we 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. Day 10* or 11: Ushuaia We arrive at the port of Ushuaia in the early morning and disembark after breakfast. Please note: The above itinerary is a guide only. Our exact route and program will vary to take best advantage of local weather, ice conditions and opportunities to view wildlife. Changes will be made by the captain and/or expedition leader to facilitate the best results from the prevailing conditions. A daily program sheet will be issued on board. Flexibility is the key to success of this Antarctic expedition cruise. *The 9 night/10 day departures offer one day less in the area of the Antarctic Peninsula and South Shetland Islands compared to the 10 night/11 day departures.

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Expedition Vessel: M/V Ushuaia

Originally built for the United States agency NOAA (National Oceanic & Atmospheric Administration), the USHUAIA has been refurbished to accommodate a maximum of 90 passengers in 46 comfortable cabins and suites. The ice-strengthened polar vessel USHUAIA is very well appointed and provides ample deck space and an open bridge policy. The full complement of inflatable landing craft ensures superb landings and wildlife viewing opportunities on the otherwise inaccessible coastline. All cabins include ample storage space. Public areas feature a large dining room (one sitting), an observation lounge and bar, a conference room with modern multimedia equipment, a well-stocked library, a changing room and a small infirmary. The expert captain, officers and crew are highly experienced in Antarctic navigation and have a great love of nature. A specialist team of international expedition leaders and lecturers are all extremely knowledgeable, enthusiastic, helpful and dedicated to the protection of the environment. Chefs prepare excellent cuisine including many local specialties and the bar is well-stocked with carefully selected wines and spirits.

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Included

Voyage to Antarctica sailing from Ushuaia
All meals throughout the voyage aboard the MV 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.

Excluded

Any airfare (scheduled or charter flights).
Pre and post-land arrangements (Including transfers to/from the vessel).
Passport and visa expenses.
Government arrival and departure taxes.
Baggage, cancellation and personal insurance (strongly recommended).
Extra expenses (excess baggage charges, bar and beverage charges, meals ashore, communication, laundry, souvenirs, etc).
The customary gratuity at the end of the voyages (guidelines will be provided).

Rates, Share and Sole Use policy All rates are quoted per person, based on shared twin or triple occupancy. If you are travelling alone and wish to share, you will be matched with another person of the same gender at the shared rate. Two dedicated Premier single cabins are available at a special single rate. A limited number of twin cabins are also available for single occupancy at 1.5 times the share rate. Suites may be reserved at 2 times the share rate. A third berth in the Suites and Superior may be occupied at 50% of the published twin share rate. Special rates for families A child (under 16 years) accompanied by two adults can travel free of charge in a triple Superior cabin or triple Suite (subject to availability). Deposits Reservations require a deposit of 10% at the time you receive a booking confirmation from Expeditions Online. A further deposit of 20% of the cruise fare is required 270 days prior to departure (i.e. total 30% deposit within 9 months of departure). A payment link will be sent to you and this may be paid by major credit card. Bookings within 90 days of departure require full payment. Final Payments Balances are due 90 days prior to departure. Balances may be paid by bank transfer alternatively by credit card (subject to a 2% surcharge). Cancellations All requests for cancellation must be received in writing to Expeditions Online. Cancellations received until 90 days prior to departure are not refundable but may be used as future credit (subject to a rebooking fee of 5%). From 89 days up to and including the day of departure all deposits and tariffs are forfeited. If full payment has not yet been received, the full penalty will still apply and any unpaid balance is due immediately. We strongly recommend that you obtain adequate trip cancellation insurance. Booking Terms Please read carefully the General Terms and Conditions for Expeditions Online. This voyage is operated by Antarpply Expeditions and you additionally travel under their terms and conditions as the operator as well as of the Shipping Company/transport carrier. Details will be forwarded to you at the time of booking.