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A REMOTE WEDDELL SEA QUEST

Snow Hill Island Emperor Penguins

Enter the Weddell Sea aboard a helicopter-capable ship and, if ice and weather permit, attempt to approach the emperor-penguin colony near Snow Hill Island.

11–14 days Typical durationNovember Travel seasonUshuaia Start and finish

Trip Overview

Duration
11–14 days
Season
November
Voyage style
Helicopter-supported expedition voyage

This specialist expedition enters one of Antarctica’s most ice-dependent regions. Helicopters may support access, followed by a guided walk over sea ice.

Reaching the target, flying and seeing emperor penguins are never guaranteed; every decision follows visibility, wind, ice and wildlife-protection rules.

Why This Route

01

Emperor Penguin Focus

Search for emperor penguins without disturbing their natural movement.

02

Helicopter-Supported Access

When conditions allow, helicopter transfers may shorten the approach.

03

Weddell Sea Ice

Experience tabular icebergs and broad sea-ice landscapes.

04

Flexible Alternatives

Other landings and cruises replace the objective when it is inaccessible.

Route Map

Ushuaia → Weddell Sea → Snow Hill Island area → South Shetland Islands → Ushuaia

The map shows the main sailing direction. Actual landing sites are selected by the captain and expedition team according to weather, sea ice and safety conditions.

South AmericaAntarcticaAntarctic Circle 66°33′SUshuaiaWeddell SeaSnow Hill Island areaSouth Shetland IslandsUshuaiaUshuaiaWeddell SeaSnow Hill Island areaSouth Shetland Islands

DAY BY DAY

Day by Day

A representative itinerary. The order of landings and cruising is adapted to local conditions.

Days 1–3

Towards the Weddell Sea

Embark in Ushuaia and cross the Drake Passage towards the Weddell Sea. The expedition team introduces emperor-penguin ecology, helicopter procedures, sea-ice walking and strict wildlife-observation rules. From deck, watch for albatrosses, petrels and the first ice as the ship approaches the Antarctic Sound.

Towards the Weddell Sea
Days 4–9

Snow Hill Island Area

The ship navigates the Weddell Sea’s shifting pack ice and searches for the safest achievable position near Snow Hill Island. If visibility, wind and ice conditions permit, helicopters may transfer guests closer to the target area, followed by a guided walk over uneven sea ice. Any emperor penguins are observed quietly from the required distance, without blocking their routes. Access, flights and sightings are never guaranteed, and the expedition team may change the plan at any time for safety or wildlife protection.

Snow Hill Island Area
Days 10–11

Explore the Weddell Sea

Use the best available conditions for alternative exploration across the Weddell Sea. Zodiac cruises, shore landings or helicopter-supported viewpoints may reveal monumental tabular icebergs, pressure ridges, remote coastlines and possible Weddell seals. The exact programme responds to sea ice and weather, ensuring these days remain rewarding even if Snow Hill itself is inaccessible.

Explore the Weddell Sea
Days 12–14

Return to Ushuaia

Sail north across the Drake Passage while naturalists share expedition recaps and continue watching for seabirds and whales. Review photographs and reflect on the changing sea-ice landscapes before entering the Beagle Channel. Disembark in Ushuaia after breakfast, keeping onward travel flexible because polar conditions can affect the final timing.

Return to Ushuaia

EXPEDITION SHIPS

Ships Commonly Found on This Route

Ship assignments vary by departure. These examples show the range of expedition styles available.

PLANNING NOTES

Plan This Journey

Departure
Ushuaia, Argentina
Arrival
Ushuaia, Argentina

Who This Journey Suits

  • Travellers prioritising emperor penguins
  • Guests accepting very high uncertainty

What You May See

  • Emperor penguins
  • Weddell seals
  • Antarctic seabirds
  • Weddell Sea pack ice
  • Tabular icebergs
  • Snow Hill area

Physical Activity & Sea Conditions

  • Potential helicopter transfers and a long, cold walk over uneven sea ice require good mobility.
  • The voyage includes extended open-ocean passages. Weather, swell and sea ice can substantially change the programme.

Before You Book

  • Access and sightings cannot be guaranteed
  • Helicopter weight and safety rules apply
  • Alternative activities replace the objective when needed

WHAT TO EXPECT

Inclusions and Exclusions

What Is Usually Included

  • Shipboard accommodation and meals
  • Scheduled landings and Zodiac cruising
  • Expedition team lectures and guiding
  • Loan of expedition boots on many ships

What Is Usually Not Included

  • International and domestic flights
  • Travel insurance and medical costs
  • Optional adventure activities
  • Gratuities and personal expenses

Important

  • Final inclusions vary by operator and departure
  • Activities depend on weather and ice
  • Ask us to compare the exact terms before booking

PLAN THIS JOURNEY

Ready for the search for Snow Hill’s emperor penguins?

Tell us your preferred travel window, cabin style and priorities. We will help you compare suitable departures and expedition ships.

Plan This Journeyinfo@polartraveltribe.com