Antarctica By Helicopter - Icebergs, Mountains and Remote Lands
12 Days - Ultramarine
Soar beyond the ordinary to the rarely-visited east coastline of Antarctica. Offering helicopter adventures no one else can, our cutting-edge 12-day Antarctica by Helicopter: Icebergs, Mountains and Remote Lands itinerary maximizes your opportunities to explore the interior of the magical 7th Continent, as well as Erebus and Terror Gulf, Antarctic Sound and the great Weddell Sea. Anticipate unrivalled views you never dreamt possible: sculpted icebergs arising from the depths of the sea; and snow-capped peaks you’re tempted to reach out and touch as you fly by. Enjoy two Heli Flightseeing adventures and one Heli Excursion—all included in the price of your voyage—while exploring in the comfort of Ultramarine.
You’ll learn what it's like to step out of a helicopter onto Antarctica and gaze upon polar landscapes previously seen by just a few fearless explorers. In fact, some areas of the east side of the Peninsula resemble the planet Mars. Ultimately, this innovative voyage on board Ultramarine—with its two twin-engine helicopters—will translate into the expedition of a lifetime.
from AUD $25595pp
Home » 12 Day Ultramarine: Antarctica By Helicopter – Icebergs, Mountains and Remote Lands
Itinerary Highlights
- Explore the rarely-visited east side of the Antarctic Peninsula
- Experience at least two heli-flightseeing excursions -included in the cost of the trip.
- Participate in one heli-landing amidst Antarctica's vast coastal mountains
- Enjoy off-ship excursions by Zodiac for intimate marine and land-based experiences
- Journey into the remote Weddell Sea, Erebus and Terror Gulf and Antarctic Sound
- View icebergs amassed and birthed from the Larsen and Filchner-Ronne Ice Shelf
- Travel aboard our technologically-advanced Ultramarine, enjoying the sauna or one of the ship's many other onboard amenities
- Learn from our polar experts during our enhanced onboard education program.
Itinerary in Brief
- Day 1: Arrive in Buenos Aires, Argentina
- Day 2: Fly to Ushuaia and Embark
- Day 3: Crossing the Drake: A Polar Rite of Passage
- Day 4: At Sea With Polar Experts
- Day 5 to 9: Explore the Weddell Sea by Water, Land, & Air
- Day 10: At Sea Day: Rejuvenate and Relax on Ultramarine
- Day 11: At Sea Day
- Day 12: Disembark in Ushuaia and fly to Buenos Aires
This itinerary is a guide only and is subject to change due to weather, sea state and other conditions beyond control.
Day 1: Arrive in Buenos Aires, Argentina
Upon arriving in this cosmopolitan city, much celebrated for its architecture and rich European heritage, you will independently transfer to your group hotel (pre-expedition hotel night included in mandatory transfer package).
Day 2: Fly to Ushuaia and Embark
After an early breakfast at the hotel, the group will transfer to the airport and board our private charter flight to Ushuaia, Argentina. Upon arrival, you will be transferred from the airport to a central downtown location to enjoy some time on your own to explore this quaint port town before making your way to the pier. After a late afternoon embarkation, you will sail along the historic Beagle Channel, which transects the Tierra del Fuego archipelago in the extreme south of South America. Expect an air of anticipation as you depart— the next time you see land, you'll be in the remote Antarctic wilderness.
Day 3: Crossing the Drake: A Polar Rite of Passage
Crossing the legendary 800-km stretch of water is a must-do for many travelers. Prepare yourself for dramatic seascapes as you stand on the deck of Ultramarine and gaze at the water stretching beyond the distant horizon. Be on the lookout fo dolphins, whales, and seabirds, especially albatrosses, petrels and skuas as they glide over the sometimes rough waters. As the ship approaches the Antarctic Peninsula, keep your eyes peeled for your first glimpse of towering, multi-shaped icebergs.
Day 4: At Sea With Polar Experts
Today we cross the Antarctic Convergence, moving into the biological Antarctic, where the warmer waters of the sub-Antarctic meet the cold Antarctic. Your days at sea are filled with presentations led by your Expedition Team on photography, wildlife, glaciology, and history. In between presentations, spend time on deck looking for wildlife or chatting with your shipmates over a drink at the bar.
Day 5 to 9: Explore the Weddell Sea by Water, Land, & Air
Helicopter operations in Antarctica are acutely weather-dependent. We have designed this itinerary so we can spend time each day in stunning locations that allow us to enjoy helicopter opportunities if the weather allows and, alternately, to maximize your experience of Antarctic wildlife, ice and landscapes when flying conditions are not favorable. Each day on the Antarctic Peninsula will showcase the flexibility and technical prowess of our industry-leading expedition team, pilots and crew.
As Ultramarine gains access to the Antarctic Peninsula, our team will look for opportunities to experience Antarctica beyond the coast and over the expansive glacial terrain of the last great wilderness.
Together, Antarctic Sound, Erebus and Terror Gulf, northwestern Weddell Sea are the theater of this venture. Initially we plan to sail into Antarctic Sound where we will visit two towering geological features:
Madder Cliffs on Joinville Island, and Brown Bluff on the most northerly tip of the Antarctic Continent. Our goal is to visit large Adélie penguin colonies in this area by Zodiac. Gentoo penguins and seals also frequently roam this coast. There will be time to marvel at the impressive topography, namely the 678 meter (2,225-foot) volcanic rock cliffs at Brown Bluff- though, if weather allows, we may pivot from our marine operations and embark on our first flightseeing experience of the voyage. What you will have just seen from sea, you will now experience from the sky as you gaze over the vastness of Antarctica with the perspective of a snow petrel.
Continuing through Antarctic Sound and into Erebus and Terror Gulf, located on the tip of the southeast side of the Antarctic Peninsula, Ultramarine will be positioned to maximize both helicopter and Zodiac excursions. The James Ross
Island group, which comprises several Islands, offers myriad opportunities to explore historically relevant sites that were discovered by the Swedish Antarctic Expedition of 1901-04. Upon landing, we plan to hike to a summit to view an Adélie penguin colony, as well as the northern Weddell Sea. If the tide is low, there may be grounded bergs in the shallow waters— a surreal sight you're unlikely to encounter on many polar expeditions. These islands, highly valued for their geological significance, are home to fossil finds, ventifacts (ancient rocks polished smooth over time by wind and grains of sand) and the remains of the KT Boundary, which marks the transition between the Cretaceous Period (dinosaurs and reptiles) and the Tertiary Period (mammals). Our goal is to provide opportunities for you to see ventifacts up close, to better appreciate the significance of wind erosion-by sand or ice particles— over long periods of time. These ventifacts provide valuable information about the climatic history and prevailing wind patterns of the region.
As already mentioned, atmospheric conditions influence when and where we fly-on any day of our voyage-at any of the superb locations in the region.
When not flying, we'll shift our focus from geology to wildlife. For instance, we could Zodiac cruise to Devil Island and head out on a hike that will allow participants to appreciate the twin towering cones of ash and hardened lava that rises from a bay on the north shore of Vega Island. Alternatively, we may aim for renowned Paulet Island, home to one of the largest Adélie penguin rookeries in the area, as well as the historic hut built by members of the Swedish Antarctic Expedition of 1901-04. A cross marks the grave site of Ole Wennersgaard, a member of the crew.
Another potential destination for helicopter operations includes the dramatic headland on the northeastern tip of Joinville island. One of the first features you'll see as we approach the island by air is, of course, the distinct rocky headland sticking out of the rugged, icy landscape.
This prominent landmark has proven useful for navigation and exploration over the years.
Expect a dramatic finale to the helicopter-focused segment of the expedition as we prepare to return back across the Drake Passage. While our team has devised multiple back-up plans-crucial on any polar expedition- our ultimate goal at this point is a heli flightseeing excursion to Livingston Island, home of the most spectacular mountains of the South Shetland Islands. Among the towering peaks you'll see from air are the Tangra Mountains (stretching 32 kilometres long by 8.5 kilometres wide), Mount Friesland (rising to 1,700 metres/ 5,578 feet) , Bowles Ridge and Pliska Ridge (667 metres/2,188 feet).
Another landing option is Deception Island. Along with waddling penguins and lounging seals, you can also see the rusting remnants of long-ago whaling operations on the beach. The landscape of Deception Island often presents opportunities for longer walks to striking vistas. The stark contrast between snow and dark volcanic sand, and the geothermic steam along the shoreline gives this location an atmospheric feel.
Day 10: At Sea Day: Rejuvenate and Relax on Ultramarine
Take some time, as we journey back across the 800-kilometer Drake Passage, to relax after your off-ship adventures.
Ultramarine is home to Tundra Spa, where you can book a soothing facial treatment or massage. Additionally, you can also relax in the sauna with floor-to-ceiling windows that keep you connected to the polar seas while you rejuvenate indoors.
Day 11: At Sea Day
Your polar learning isn't over. Join our on-board experts as they continue to share their vast polar expertise through scheduled presentations in our Ambassador Theater. The state-of-the-art, high-resolution LED screen wall in the main theater ensures high-definition viewing of presentations from your Expedition Team from any angle. This is an excellent opportunity to ask any lingering questions you have about any aspect of your Antarctic experiences.
Day 12: Disembark in Ushuaia and fly to Buenos Aires
You will arrive in Ushuaia in the morning and disembark after breakfast.
The mandatory transfer package includes a tour of Tierra del Fuego National Park for a taste of Patagonia, after which you'll transfer to the airport for the return group charter flight to Buenos Aires.
This itinerary is a guide only and is subject to change due to weather, sea state and other conditions beyond control.
Dates | Cabin | From | Special Offer |
---|---|---|---|
27 Nov 2025 - 08 Dec 2025 | AUD $25595pp | ||
Explorer Triple | AUD $25595pp | Contact us | |
Explorer Suite | AUD $29995pp | Contact us | |
Balcony Suite | AUD $33195pp | Contact us | |
Deluxe Balcony Suite | AUD $39095pp | Contact us | |
Terrace Suite | AUD $40495pp | Contact us | |
Solo Panorama Cabin | AUD $42095pp | Contact us | |
Penthouse Suite | AUD $43495pp | Contact us | |
Owner's Suite | AUD $54095pp | Contact us | |
Ultra Suite | AUD $59995pp | Contact us | |
07 Dec 2025 - 18 Dec 2025 | AUD $25595pp | ||
Explorer Triple | AUD $25595pp | Contact us | |
Explorer Suite | AUD $29995pp | Contact us | |
Balcony Suite | AUD $33195pp | Contact us | |
Deluxe Balcony Suite | AUD $39095pp | Contact us | |
Terrace Suite | AUD $40495pp | Contact us | |
Solo Panorama Cabin | AUD $42095pp | Contact us | |
Penthouse Suite | AUD $43495pp | Contact us | |
Owner's Suite | AUD $54095pp | Contact us | |
Ultra Suite | AUD $59995pp | Contact us |
**Prices are per person based on twin / shared accommodation.
**Single supplements may apply
Cabin Details
Solo Panorama Cabin
*Please note, picture is an artists impression. Image will be updated when available.
- Located on Deck 6
- Approx. 132 square-feet
- Floor-to-ceiling windows
- Single bed
- Desk
- Refrigerator
- Television
- Private bathroom with shower and heated floors
Explorer Triple
*Please note, picture is an artists impression. Image will be updated when available.
- Located on Deck 3
- Approx. 285 square-feet
- Three separate single beds
- Sitting area
- Picture window
- Desk
- Refrigerator
- Television
- Private bathroom with shower and heated floors
Explorer Suite
*Please note, picture is an artists impression. Image will be updated when available.
- Located on Deck 3
- Approx. 285 square-feet
- One double or two single beds
- Sitting area with sofa bed
- Picture window
- Desk
- Refrigerator
- Television
- Private bathroom with shower and heated floors
Balcony Suite
*Please note, picture is an artists impression. Image will be updated when available.
- Located on Decks 4 and 6
- Approx. 226 square-feet of indoor living space
- Approx. 52 square-foot balcony
- Connecting cabins available
- One double or two single beds
- Sitting area with sofa bed
- Private balcony
- Desk
- Refrigerator
- Television
- Private bathroom with shower and heated floors
Deluxe Balcony Suite
*Please note, picture is an artists impression. Image will be updated when available.
- Located on Decks 4 and 6
- Approx. 299 square-feet of indoor living space
- Approx. 70 square-foot balcony
- One double or two single beds
- Sitting area with sofa bed
- Private balcony
- Desk
- Refrigerator
- Television
- Private bathroom with shower, bathtub and heated floors
Terrace Suite
*Please note, picture is an artists impression. Image will be updated when available.
- Located on Deck 6
- Approx. 350 square-feet of indoor living space
- Approx. 100-square-foot balcony
- One double or two single beds
- Sitting area with sofa bed
- Private extra-wide balcony
- Desk
- Refrigerator
- Television
- Private bathroom with shower, bathtub and heated floors
Penthouse Suite
*Please note, picture is an artists impression. Image will be updated when available.
- Located on Deck 7
- Approx. 369 square-feet of indoor living space
- Approx. 67 square-foot balcony
- One double or two single beds
- Sitting area with sofa bed
- Private balcony
- Desk
- Refrigerator
- Television
- Private bathroom with shower, bathtub and heated floors
Owner's Suite
*Please note, picture is an artists impression. Image will be updated when available.
- Located on Deck 6
- Approx. 446 square-feet of indoor living space
- Approx. 46.3 square-foot balcony
- One double or two single beds in a private bedroom
- Walk-in closet
- Sitting area with sofa bed and additional closet
- Private balcony
- Desk
- Refrigerator
- Television
- Private bathroom with shower, bathtub and heated floors
- Separate powder room
Ultra Suite
*Please note, picture is an artists impression. Image will be updated when available.
- Located on Deck 6
- Approx. 563 square-feet of interior living space
- Approx. 46 square-foot balcony
- One double or two single beds
- Walk-in closet
- Sitting area with sofa bed and additional walk-in hallway closet
- Private balcony
- Desk
- Refrigerator
- Television
- Private bathroom with shower, bathtub and heated floors
- Separate powder room
Ultramarine Deckplan
Specifications
- Staff and Crew: 140
- Guests: 199
- Ice Class: 1A+, PC6
- Length: 420 ft (128m)
- Draft: 16.4ft (5.1m)
- Cruising Speed: 16 knots, in open water
- Registration: Marshall Islands
- Lifeboats: 4, fully enclosed
Whats included?
- Leadership throughout the voyage by our experienced Expedition Leaders, including shore landings and other activities
- Parka to keep
- All Zodiac transfers and cruising as per the daily program
- All shore landings as per the daily program
- Shipboard accommodation with daily housekeeping
- All meals, snacks, soft drinks and juices on board throughout your voyage. Please inform us of any dietary requirements as far in advance as possible. Unfortunately, the ships’ galleys cannot prepare kosher meals
- Free beer, standard wines, spirits, and cocktails during bar service hours and dinner
- Formal and informal presentations by our Expedition Team and guest speakers as scheduled
- A photographic journal documenting your expedition
- A pair of waterproof expedition boots on loan for landings and Zodiac cruising excursions
- Hair dryer and bathrobes in every cabin
- All miscellaneous service taxes and port charges throughout the program
- All luggage handling aboard the ship
- Emergency Evacuation insurance for all passengers to a maximum benefit of USD $500,000 per person
- Complimentary Wi-Fi service on one device permitting basic Internet browsing, email, posting on social media and voice applications. (Premium packages are available for more data intensive applications.)
What’s not included?
- International airfare
- Passport and applicable visa expenses
- Government arrival and departure taxes not mentioned
- Meals unless otherwise specified
- Baggage, cancellation, interruption and medical travel insurance—strongly recommended
- Excess-baggage fees on international flights
- Mandatory waterproof pants for Zodiac landing and cruising excursions, or any other gear not mentioned
- Laundry, bar, spa services and other personal charges, unless specified
- Phone and Internet charges (connectivity may vary by location)
- Voluntary gratuity at the end of the voyage for expedition staff and shipboard crew
- Additional overnight accommodation
- Arrival and departure transfers, except where explicitly stated
- Adventure Options not listed in Included Activities
- Mandatory Transfer Package*
Notes
Mandatory Transfer Package*
Includes:
- One night's pre-expedition hotel accommodation in Buenos Aires with breakfast (Note: The number of guests per room is the same as cabin occupancy on the ship. Due to limited availability, travelers who reserve a suite on board are accommodated in standard rooms at the hotel. Triple rooms may not be available.)
- Group flight departing from Buenos Aires’ domestic airport (Aeroparque/AEP) to Ushuaia, and returning to Buenos Aires’ international airport (Ezeiza/EZE)
- Group transfer from hotel to airport in Buenos Aires
- Group transfer from Ushuaia airport to the ship, and return (Note: Transfer on arrival in Buenos Aires from airport to hotel at the beginning of the journey is not included. Please make your way to the included hotel.)
- Combined airport transfer and express bus tour of Tierra del Fuego National Park after disembarkation in Ushuaia
Package Price: $1,600 AUD