Spirit of Antarctica: 10-Night Aurora Ushuaia Expedition

Spirit of Antarctica is Aurora Expeditions’ classic Antarctic Peninsula voyage: 10 nights round trip from Ushuaia aboard Greg Mortimer, February 9 to 19, 2028. It’s a natural first Antarctic trip for travelers who want the traditional sea route, with time to absorb the scale of the Southern Ocean before arriving. February is late summer, a busy season for penguin chicks and feeding whales, and the ice has opened up many sheltered bays.

Ushuaia, on Argentina’s Beagle Channel, is where most Antarctic voyages begin. Two days crossing the Drake Passage follow. On Greg Mortimer, those days are spent with the expedition team: lectures on wildlife, glaciology and polar history, biosecurity briefings before landings, and seabird watching from the decks as albatrosses ride the wind alongside the ship.

Then come four days along the Antarctic Peninsula, Captain’s Choice throughout. The team reads ice charts and weather daily to choose landing sites and Zodiac cruises. Depending on conditions, that can mean penguin colonies, seals resting on floes, humpback whales feeding in sheltered bays, and glaciers that reach right to the water. Late-season light, with the sun sitting lower, is a favorite with photographers. Two days on the Drake bring you back to Ushuaia.

Greg Mortimer was built for polar waters, with an X-BOW hull designed for a smoother ride in heavy seas, which is welcome on the Drake. Aurora’s small-ship style means more time ashore per guest, an expert expedition team and the chance to join citizen science projects. Ask us what your fare includes, as inclusions vary.

We’d be glad to help with flights through Buenos Aires and a night in Ushuaia before you sail. Send us your dates and preferred cabin category, and we’ll check current pricing and availability.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I have to cross the Drake Passage on Spirit of Antarctica?
Yes. This voyage sails the Drake Passage both ways, with about two days in each direction. If you’d rather avoid it, Aurora’s Fly the Drake trips are an alternative we can compare for you.

What’s the difference between a landing and Zodiac cruising in Antarctica?
A landing means going ashore to walk near wildlife or viewpoints, while Zodiac cruising means exploring from small boats among the ice and along the coast. Both depend on weather and are decided day by day.

What should I pack for Antarctica in February?
Pack warm, waterproof layers, thermal base layers, gloves and a warm hat. Ask us whether your fare includes an expedition jacket or boot loan, as these vary by voyage.