Antarctica Classic in Depth Adventure Tour

Like our "Antarctica Classic" tour, this 13-day expedition introduces you to the magic of the South Shetland Islands and the Antarctic Peninsula, but adds on two additional days to better explore its majesty. Part of the reward of arriving in Antarctica is the challenge of negotiating the Drake Passage - and the G Expedition will bring you there safely. Encounter leopard seals lazing on ice floes and immense rookeries of penguins surrounded by towering glaciers. The G Expedition's expert guides and lecturers offer knowledge and insight that really bring the nature and history of the region to life, creating the adventure of a lifetime.

Dossier Disclaimer  

The information in this trip details document has been compiled with care and is provided in good faith. However it is subject to change, and does not form part of the contract between the client and the operator. The itinerary featured is correct at time of printing. It may differ slightly to the one in the brochure. Occasionally our itineraries change as we make improvements that stem from past travellers, comments and our own research. Sometimes it can be a small change like adding an extra meal along the itinerary. Sometimes the change may result in us altering the tour for the coming year. Ultimately, our goal is to provide you with the most rewarding experience. Please note that our brochure is usually released in November each year. If you have booked from the previous brochure you may find there have been some changes to the itinerary.

VERY IMPORTANT: Please ensure that you print a final copy of your Trip Details to review a couple of days prior to travel, in case there have been changes that affect your plans.

Itinerary Disclaimer  

While it is our intention to adhere to the route described below, there is a certain amount of flexibility built into the itinerary and on occasion it may be necessary, or desirable to make alterations. The itinerary is brief, as we never know exactly where our journey will take us. Due to our style of travel and the regions we visit, travel can be unpredictable. The Trip Details document is a general guide to the tour and region and any mention of specific destinations or wildlife is by no means a guarantee that they will be visited or encountered. Aboard expedition trips visits to research stations depend on final permission.

Additionally, any travel times listed are approximations only and subject to vary due to local circumstances.

Group Leader Description  

A carefully chosen team will lead our voyage. Our expedition ships boast an international team of professional naturalists and lecturers. Their goal is to provide an informed and balanced interpretation of the destination, accomplished through stimulating lectures, day-to-day briefings, and informal discussions. Your lecturers and Expedition Leader will cover all aspects of the voyage including ornithology, marine biology, geography, geology, history and the environment, as well as practical things like photography. The expedition staff work conscientiously with you on deck and in the field, improving your observational skills to allow you to experience all that the destination has to offer. Their strong sense of ethics and ecological knowledge make for stimulating and mindful conversation whether onshore or at the dinner table. The Expedition Staff will pilot the Zodiac landing craft used for shore landings and Zodiac cruises; they are experienced drivers who operate the Zodiacs in a responsible manner.

Meals  

Onboard our expedition ships you'll find a diversity of gourmet international cuisines prepared and catered by professional chefs; all meals are included in the price of your expedition. Dining is casual, tables are unassigned and the dining room is capable of seating the entire passenger compliment at one time. There is always a selection of different meals available, and vegetarians will find plenty of options. Special dietary requirements can be accommodated with advance notice, please advise us at time of confirmation. Coffee, tea and water are all provided free of charge. All other beverages, alcoholic and non-alcoholic are not included and can be purchased in the dining room, pub or the lounge.

Transport  

G Expedition, Zodiac, private bus, walking.

Group Size Notes  

Max 134 aboard the G Expedition.

Meals Included  

12 breakfasts, 10 lunches, 11 dinners

Local Flights  

Local flights are not included in the price of this trip. Please make sure that you arrive into Ushuaia on Day 1. If you require assistance booking local flights please contact your G Adventures representative. From our experience we have found that there are regular delays in flights from Buenos Aires to Ushuaia.

Please note that internal flights in Argentina generally allow less luggage than international flights.

Accommodation  

Twin-share hotel (1 nt), aboard the G Expedition in quad-, triple-, twin-share cabins, or suites (all with en suite bathrooms and porthole or window, 11 nts). Please note that all cabins consist of twin-size berths and are ocean-facing. Suites have one queen-size bed.

My Own Room  

Please note that if you have selected the Private Cabin option at the time of booking, you will receive your own room for the duration of this cruise. This includes the hotel in Ushuaia.

If you are a solo traveller and you have NOT selected the Private Cabin option, you will be paired with another solo traveller for all nights, including the hotel in Ushuaia.

For groups of 3 passengers travelling together who have booked a triple cabin, you will have a triple room in the hotel where available. If we cannot book a triple room, please note that one of you will be sharing with another solo traveller of the same gender for the hotel night in Ushuaia.

Joining Hotel  

Please note your first night hotel in Ushuaia is based on your cabin category:

Category 1/1A and 2

Las Lengas
Address: Goleta Florencia 1722, V9410 Ushuaia, Tierra del Fuego, Argentina
Phone: +54 2901 43-6100

Category 3, 4 and 5

Albatros Hotel
Address: Av. Maipu 505, V9410 Ushuaia, Tierra del Fuego, Argentina
Phone: +54 2901 43-7300

Packing List  

Documents:
• Flight info (required) (Printouts of e-tickets may be required at the border)
• Insurance info (required) (With photocopies)
• Passport (required) (With photocopies)
• Vouchers and pre-departure information (required)
• Visas or vaccination certificates (With photocopies)

Expedition:
• Binoculars (highly recommended)
• Camera (With extra memory cards and batteries)
• Credit cards (Please note the Expedition is cashless and only accepts credit cards for payment.)
• Day pack (Used for daily excursions or short overnights)
• Drybag (To protect your camera and belongings on Zodiac landings)
• Ear plugs
• First-aid kit (should contain lip balm with sunscreen, sunscreen, whistle, Aspirin, Ibuprofen, bandaids/plasters, tape, anti-histamines, antibacterial gel/wipes, antiseptic cream, Imodium or similar tablets for mild cases of diarrhea, rehydration powder, water purification tablets or drops, insect repellent, sewing kit, extra prescription drugs you may be taking)
• Flashlight/torch (Recommended for Antarctic camping)
• Fleece jacket or warm layer
• Fleece top/sweater
• Footwear (good gripping) (Please note that open toed shoes are not allowed in public spaces on the Expedition.)
• Hat
• Long pants/jeans
• Moisturizer/lip balm
• Moneybelt
• Motion sickness tablets
• Outlet adapter (Electricity onboard is 220AC electrical outlets, with European 2 pin round holes, as well as 110-volt shaving sockets in the bathroom for electric razors only.)
• Personal entertainment (Reading and writing materials, cards, music player, etc.)
• Scarf (Or neck warmer.)
• Shirts/t-shirts
• Sleepwear
• Sunblock (Antarctica is a desert!)
• Sunglasses
• Swimwear
• Thermal base layer
• Thermal underwear
• Toiletries (Shampoo and shower gel are provided aboard the Expedition.)
• Walking poles (if desired)
• Warm hat
• Warm waterproof gloves
• Watch and alarm clock
• Waterproof pants (Mandatory for all Zodiac landings)
• Wool/Heavy socks

Health & Safety:
• Hand sanitizer (required)
• Face masks (Clients will be only be required to wear a face mask where it is mandated by local regulations.)
• Pen (Please bring your own pen for filling out documents.)

Note: Please note shampoo, conditioner and shower gel are provided on board.

What to Take  

Most airlines allow one checked bag and one carry-on per person. To avoid any problems at check-in and with possible excess baggage charges, please consult the airline for specific restrictions. For storage on board the expedition ship, soft compactible luggage makes storage much easier.

Dress on board is informal. Plan to bring comfortable, casual clothing for all activities. Bring wind and waterproof outer layers. Beware of tight clothing that leaves no room for trapped air, which is an excellent insulator. Wool, silk and some of the new synthetic fibers, like polar fleece, retain heat better than cotton. When packing, we suggest that you do not weigh yourself down with too many clothes or too much gear. Select informal, practical attire that can be worn in layers.

In order to participate on Zodiac excursions or landings, a pair of waterproof pants is mandatory.

It is possible to rent gear in Ushuaia for the expedition, but the quantity and quality of gear varies greatly depending on the demand. For the location of a rental shop consult with the front desk of the hotel where you are staying. If arriving on embarkation day you will NOT have time to rent the gear. You will also not have time to return the rental gear if you have a morning flight departing Ushuaia.

In the world's most remote destinations that the G Expedition travels to we cannot offload our plastics, glass or tin waste for recycling. Therefore, we try to reduce what single use items that we use. You will see on the ship that every effort is being used to stop the use of single use plastic containers, bags and other items. In an effort to prevent plastic waste from entering the waste stream, we are asking for your help. We offer exceptional drinking water on the ship with refilling stations for your reusable water containers. You will be provided a complimentary water bottle to fill up as needed. Plastic Items such as single use shampoo/conditioner plastic containers cannot be recycled, so please plan to bring any plastics back to your home countries for recycling. Please do not bring single use items that you intend to leave behind such plastic bags and throw away razors. Your participation helping to prevent pollution and promote recycling is greatly appreciated.

Spending Money  

Every traveller is different and therefore spending money requirements will vary. Some travellers may drink more than others while other travellers like to purchase more souvenirs than most. Please consider your own spending habits when it comes to allowing for drinks, shopping and tipping.

While on board our G Expedition ships, please note they are cashless and only accept credit cards for payment. The currency for all purchases is USD.

Solo Travellers  

We believe single travellers should not have to pay more to travel so our group trips are designed for shared accommodation and do not involve a single supplement. Single travellers joining group trips are paired in twin or multi-share accommodation with someone of the same sex for the duration of the trip. Some of our Independent trips are designed differently and single travellers on these itineraries must pay the single trip price.

Money Exchange  

Before and after the cruise:

Credit cards and debit cards are very useful for cash advances. Visa cards are the most widely accepted cards. While ATMs are widely available, there are no guarantees that your credit or debit cards will actually work overseas. Check with your bank. You should be aware that to purchase products or services on a credit card a fee of 5%-10% usually applies. Do not rely on credit or debit cards as your only source of money. A combination of US dollars cash and cards is best. Always take more rather than less, as you don't want to spoil the trip by constantly feeling short of funds.

While on board our Expedition ships, major credit cards (VISA, Mastercard and AMEX) are used to clear incidental bills at the end of the cruise by the ship's Purser (ie. bar bills, laundry, crew tips, etc.). Please note the Expedition is a cashless ship.

We recommend bringing USD in cash for the Argentinean portion of this tour as it is easier than using a credit card or withdrawing ARS from an ATM. USD currency is accepted in travel agencies for booking optional activities.

Travel Insurance  

Travel Insurance: Travel insurance is compulsory in order to participate on any of our trips. When travelling on a group trip, you will not be permitted to join the group until evidence of travel insurance has been sighted by your CEO, who will take note of your insurance details. When selecting a travel insurance policy please bear in mind that all clients must have medical coverage and that we require a minimum coverage of USD 200,000 for repatriation and emergency rescue. We strongly recommend that the policy also covers personal liability, cancellation, curtailment and loss of luggage and personal effects. If you have credit card insurance we require proof of purchase of the trip (a receipt of credit card statement) with a credit card in your name. Contact your bank for details of their participating insurer, the level of coverage and emergency contact telephone number.

Planeterra Foundation - the non-profit partner of G Adventures  

Every G Expedition cruise raises thousands of dollars for G Adventures' non-profit partner, Planeterra, supporting both the Ocean Health Fund and Planeterra's community social enterprise programs.  The Ocean Health Fund helps combat waste which threatens ocean health, conducts scientific research on ocean animals and climate change, as well as investing in programs that work with local communities to promote ocean conservation and stewardship.  Onboard the G Expedition, there are many opportunities to learn about these initiatives, to participate in Citizen Science programs, or purchase items in the gift shop from Planeterra-supported communities around the world.

The Planeterra Foundation planeterra.org is a Canadian non-profit organisation that helps empower local people to develop their communities, conserve their cultures, and create humane and supportive systems for their endeavours. Planeterra provides capacity building and catalyst grants to get community social enterprises off the ground. These businesses address local challenges by providing benefits for indigenous people, empowering marginalised women, and granting disadvantaged youth access to education, employment, and brighter futures. Planeterra also works to ensure these businesses have a thriving customer base by integrating programs into G Adventures' itineraries globally.

G Adventures is Planeterra's largest corporate donor, covering all operating costs so 100% of your donation will bring opportunity to people in need. 

Dollar-a-Day Program
G Adventures' Dollar-a-Day Program provides travellers with the opportunity to give back to the people and places visited on our tours by donating one dollar for every day you are on trip. 100% of these donations go directly to support community development projects worldwide that are implemented by Planeterra.

Finishing Point Instructions  

Upon completion of the 8:00 am disembarkation in Ushuaia, passengers will receive a complimentary transfer to either the airport or a central location where luggage can be stored.

For those on morning flights, the 8:00 am transfer will bring them directly to Ushuaia airport (USH). The rest of the passengers will be transferred to the luggage storage point and given time to explore the city. These passengers should then return to retrieve their luggage and board a second transfer to Ushuaia airport at 12:30 pm or 4:30 pm, depending on their flight times. Please note that the transfer times are subject to change according to flight schedules.

With the understanding that most will be needing to connect to their International flights in Buenos Aires, you can arrange departure flights from Ushuaia starting from 10:00 am onward.

Please note, the complimentary airport transfer is only available on disembarkation day. If you choose to stay another night, you must arrange a taxi with the hotel reception. The cost is approximately $8-$10.

Keeping in Touch on the G Expedition  

While you are on board the G Expedition, we know that keeping in touch with your family and friends is important to you. We want to ensure you have the tools available to keep you connected in some of the most remote regions of the world. The G Expedition is equipped with Starlink internet system which offers reliable connection in all the places we visit and that allows our travellers to stay connected with the purchase of personal data credit. Travellers are encouraged to use any Wi-Fi enabled device to connect to our network, which is available throughout the ship, or they can use the computers located on deck 4. Satellite phone service is available upon request.

Max Pax  

134

Joining Instructions  

A NOTE ON FLYING INTO BUENOS AIRES

Most international flights flying into Buenos Aires arrive at Ministro Pistarini Airport (EZE) in Buenos Aires.

On arrival at the International airport, there is an airport shuttle service, Manuel Tienda Leon, that can take you from Ministro Pistarini Airport (EZE) to Jorge Newberry Airport (AEP), available at an approximate cost of USD $16.00 each way. It is about 1 to 1.5 hours between the airports, so please allow yourself enough time.

A NOTE ON FLYING INTO USHUAIA

From our experience we have found that there are significant delays, especially in high season on flights from Buenos Aires to Ushuaia. We highly recommend booking your travel arrangements to arrive into Ushuaia earlier in the day on Day 1. We are happy to book additional pre-tour accommodations should you want some additional time in Ushuaia.

Please check with your airline as to which airport your domestic flight will be flying out of. Most flights that continue to Ushuaia depart from the domestic airport, Jorge Newberry Airport (AEP); however this is not always the case and some flights do depart from Ministro Pistarini Airport (EZE).

Please also confirm the luggage restrictions for your flight from Buenos Aires to Ushuaia as domestic flights generally allow less luggage than international flights.

ARRIVAL INTO USHUAIA

G Adventures is happy to offer you a complimentary airport transfer if you are arriving on Day 1 of the tour or have booked pre-night accommodation through G Adventures.

Joining Instructions with complimentary transfer: ?

Upon arrival into Ushuaia City Airport (USH) please collect your luggage and look for a G Adventures representative. Please make sure you have advised your booking agent of your arrival flight details into Ushuaia so we are expecting you. Be sure to keep all your important documents (i.e. passport) and medication in your hand luggage, as your main luggage will be transferred separately to the hotel.

Joining Instructions without complimentary transfer:

Ushuaia City Airport (USH) is located only 5 km outside of the city. Local taxis can be hired at the airport for transportation into Ushuaia at a cost of around $10 USD. On your arrival to Ushuaia please make your way to the hotel listed on your voucher. Information will be available on the notice board at the hotel. Luggage tags and other information will be available for you 1 day prior to embarkation.

Your luggage will be transferred for you from the hotel to the expedition ship on the morning of Day 2. Please have your luggage in the lobby of the hotel by 8:00 am on the morning of Day 2. You will have the morning free to enjoy the city of Ushuaia and the surrounding countryside.

Embarkation time on Day 2 is set for 4:00 pm, and passengers will not be able to board the ship before that time due to refuelling, provisioning, and preparing the ship for your stay. For information on activities, restaurants, and services you can consult either the tourist information office or your hotel. Due to new port security regulations you are no longer allowed to enter the port area on your own so make sure you are on time at the designated parking lot across the pier to catch the 4:00 pm group transfer to the ship. More details will be provided with your hotel welcome letter.

On embarkation day, you should dress for changeable weather. Once aboard, you will find your luggage stored in your assigned cabin. Please ensure that all your luggage is accounted for on arrival.

Arrival Complications  

We don't expect any problems, and nor should you, but if for any reason you are unable to arrive into Ushuaia before embarkation time (usually 4pm) of Day 2 please use the emergency contact details in this dossier. We highly recommend arriving at least 1 day before sailing in order to make sure that delays do not ruin your trip as the ship is unable to wait for late passengers. If you are delayed in arriving to prebooked accommodations please contact the hotel to advise them when you will arrive. If you have pre-booked an airport transfer and have not made contact with our representative within 30 minutes of clearing customs and immigration, we recommend that you make your own way to the Starting Point hotel, following the Joining Instructions. Please apply to your booking agent on your return for a refund of the transfer cost if this occurs.

Emergency Contact  

Should you need to contact us during a situation of dire need, it is best to first call either the G Adventures Local Operator (if one is listed below) or our G Adventures Local Office. If for any reason you do not receive an immediate answer, please leave a detailed message and contact information, so they may return your call and assist you as soon as possible.

AIRPORT TRANSFER
If you have purchased an arrival through G Adventures or if an arrival transfer is included in the cost of your tour, please note that:

Your arrival transfer has been arranged based on flight information provided to us. If you are advised of a flight schedule change or flight cancellation within 48 hours of your scheduled arrival time, please call the emergency contact number to advise of your new arrival flight information. If you do not, we will not be able to rearrange your arrival transfer and you will need to make your own way to the starting hotel at your own expense. If your arrival transfer does not arrive within 30 minutes after you have exited the arrivals area please take a taxi to your start point hotel. 

EMERGENCY CONTACT NUMBERS

G Adventures Office Lima, Peru. ?During office hours (Weekdays, 9-6pm Local Time): +51 1 241 1650 ?
After hours Emergency number: +51 99 758 2712, (WhatsApp Available)

If you are unable for any reason to contact our local office, please call the numbers listed below which will connect you directly with our Sales team who will happily assist you. Hours of operation by region can be found here.

Toll-free, North America only: 1 888 800 4100?
Calls from UK: 0344 272 0000?
Calls from Germany: 0800 365 1000?
Calls from Australia: 1 300 796 618?
Calls from New Zealand: 0800 333 307?
Outside North America, Australia, New Zealand, Germany and the UK: +1 416 260 0999

Laundry  

Laundry facilities are offered by some of our hotels for a charge. Aboard the G Expedition, laundry is available to be serviced by our shipboard team at an additional charge.

Optional Activities  

Ushuaia
- Tierra del Fuego National Park Visit

South Shetland Islands
- Polar Plunge

Detailed Trip Notes  

Experience Counts
Accompanying the voyage is our dedicated and experienced expedition staff, naturalists and lecturers who share with us their knowledge, enthusiasm and commitment to the environment. Our ship is manned by officers and crew, all highly experienced in ice navigation.

Environmental Policy
We are dedicated to minimizing the impact of our expedition on wildlife and sensitive natural habitats. We operate environmentally responsible cruise and expeditions and follow all internationally agreed regulations of conduct ashore. We are all privileged visitors - and committed to the future of these extraordinary, icy realms.

Safety First
Although expedition cruising is adventurous by nature, the safety of our passengers and staff is paramount. Our ship is equipped and maintained to cope with the most challenging conditions and is manned by experienced and conscientious officers, crew and expedition staff. The Zodiac landing craft used for shore landings are rugged and versatile and are operated by experienced drivers in a responsible manner. Onboard you will be fully briefed on safety issues and our environmental policy and you will receive appropriate and detailed briefings before every landing.

Expedition Staff and Lecturers
A carefully chosen team will lead our voyage. They are chosen not only for their local knowledge and wealth of experience but also for their great love of the Antarctic. With formal lectures, as well as informal briefings and discussions, your lecturers and Expedition Leader will cover all aspects of the voyage including ornithology, marine biology, geography, geology, history and the environment, as well as practical things like photography.

Tips for Travellers
We are all privileged visitors to these extraordinary, icy realms. As a traveller, it is your responsibility to help ensure your impact on Antarctica's flora and fauna is minimal.

The following are excerpts from the GUIDANCE FOR VISITORS TO THE ANTARCTIC:

Respect wildlife
Do not feed, touch, or handle birds or seals, or approach or photograph them in ways that cause them to alter their behavior. Special care is needed when animals are breeding or molting. Keep a minimum distance of 5 meters (15 feet) from all wildlife.

Respect vegetation
Do not damage plants, by walking or landing on extensive moss beds or lichen-covered scree slopes. They are fragile and take generations to grow.

Respect the environment
Do not collect or take away biological or geological specimens or artifacts as souvenirs, and do not dispose of litter or garbage on land.

Take photos with care
Keep low as you will appear less threatening to animals and it will also yield better photographs. Do not try to make an animal react for a photograph. If an animal's behavior changes you are too close.

Stay Safe
Take note of, and act on, the advice and instructions from your leaders, and do not stray from your group.

Departure Tax  

Most airlines include departure tax in the cost of the ticket.

A Couple of Rules  

Illegal drugs will not be tolerated on any trips. Possessing or using drugs not only contravenes the laws of the land but also puts the rest of the group at risk. Smoking marijuana and opium is a part of local culture in some parts of the world but is not acceptable for our travellers. Our philosophy of travel is one of respect towards everyone we encounter and in particular the local people who make the world the special place it is. The exploitation of people in the sex trade is completely contrary to this philosophy. Our CEOs have the right to expel any member of the group if drugs are found in their possession or if they utilize the services of paid sex workers, in any capacity.

Group Leader  

One expedition team member per 10 guests.

Emergency Fund  

Please also make sure you have access to at least an additional USD $200 (or equivalent) as an 'emergency' fund, to be used when circumstances outside our control (ex. a natural disaster) require a change to our planned route. This is a rare occurrence!

International Flights  

Check-in times and baggage allowances/restrictions vary by airline and can change at any time. For the most up-to-date information for your flight, please contact your airline. We recommend checking in online in advance to avoid potential delays at the airport.

What's Included  

11 nts aboard the G Expedition. 1 nt hotel in Ushuaia, on a twin share basis. Arrival and departure transfers. Zodiac excursions with our expert expedition team. Lectures and educational programs. Waterproof boots supplied for USA sizes 4 - 16. Expedition parka.

Trip Specific Safety  

We recommend that you wear minimal jewellery and that you keep valuable items safely stored in our complimentary safety deposit box, which is located at the Purser's Desk.

Tipping  

Although it may not be customary to you, it is of considerable significance to the people who will take care of you during your travels. It is an expression of satisfaction with the persons who have assisted you on your expedition. The industry standard and suggested amount is USD $10 - 15 per person per day spent on board. Of course, tipping is a personal choice and the suggested amount is set only as a guideline. Crew tips may be settled using most major credit cards (VISA, Mastercard and AMEX) by the ship's Purser. The money is collected by the Hotel Manager at the end of the voyage and distributed amongst the crew and Expedition Staff.

Minimum Age  

Minimum age of 10 years for this trip.

Highlights  

Spend six full days exploring the Antarctic Peninsula and South Shetland Islands, conquer the notorious Drake Passage, learn from polar experts about the wonders of the Antarctic region, come face-to-face with amazing polar wildlife, marvel at immense icebergs, spend time on deck watching soaring albatross