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Peregrine Travel Centre

Echoes of the Deep: A 13-Day Whale & Science Expedition in Antarctica

Echoes of the Deep: A 13-Day Whale & Science Expedition in Antarctica

From USD $10,980

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Description

This expedition is designed as a working platform for science, offering a rare opportunity to observe how whale research is conducted in one of the most remote ecosystems on Earth. Throughout the voyage, researchers will conduct field studies aimed at improving our understanding of whale presence, behavior, and the broader Southern Ocean ecosystem.
Guests will have the chance to witness science in action and gain insight into how researchers collect, interpret, and contribute data to long-term ecological studies. Activities and research efforts will vary depending on environmental conditions, wildlife activity, and permitting requirements.
Participants are encouraged to take an active role in the experience—helping spot whales, recording observations, contributing photographs to identification catalogs, and supporting ongoing research efforts alongside the expedition team.
With more than 500 potential landing sites along the Antarctic Peninsula, daily plans remain flexible. We do hope to visit on this trip Historic sites south of the Antarctic circle as well as visit research stations subject to permission from the relevant authorities.
The Captain and Expedition Leader will adapt the route based on whale sightings, weather, and ice conditions to maximize wildlife encounters, research opportunities, and – conditions permitting -even a crossing of the Antarctic Circle.

Trip Name
Echoes of the Deep: A 13-Day Whale & Science Expedition in Antarctica
Days
13
Overview
Vessel Type: Polar Code Category C Passenger Vessel Length: 105 metres / 344 ft Passenger Capacity: 98 Built / Refurbished: 1989 / 2022  St Helena is a character-rich expedition vessel with a unique maritime legacy, originally built to serve one of the world’s most remote communities and extensively refurbished in 2022. Now part of the Terra Nova Expeditions fleet, she combines heritage with modern comfort, accommodating just 98 guests for an intimate onboard experience supported by 81 crew members. Spacious, ocean-view cabins all feature ensuite bathrooms, with a variety of configurations including singles, twins, and shared options ideal for solo travellers, families, or groups. With inviting social spaces, panoramic observation lounges, and a relaxed atmosphere, the ship offers a welcoming environment designed for both comfort and connection. Built for true expedition travel, St Helena is equipped with an ice-strengthened hull, powerful engines, and 12 Zodiacs, making her well suited for navigating the remote regions of Antarctica and beyond. Guests can take part in expert-led excursions such as zodiac cruises, guided landings, kayaking, and even camping, while onboard facilities include open decks for wildlife viewing, a gym, spa, two Jacuzzis, and a fully equipped science lab supporting active research programmes. Combining adventure, education, and strong value, St Helena delivers an immersive polar experience with a focus on exploration and meaningful discovery.

Itinerary



Day 1 - Day 1: Ushuaia, Argentina
Board the expedition vessel in the afternoon, where you'll meet your crew and fellow travellers. After settling into your cabin, the ship sets off along the picturesque Beagle Channel. Relish your first evening at sea as the southernmost tip of South America disappears from view.
Day 2 - Days 2 - 3: Crossing the Drake Passage
Start your Antarctic adventure with a crossing of the Drake Passage, a vast stretch of open ocean that marks the Antarctic Convergence, where nutrient-rich waters sustain a vibrant ecosystem.While at sea, attend expert-led talks on Antarctica's history, wildlife, and geology. Head to the open decks or the bridge to spot albatrosses, petrels, and even whales. Adventure activities, including navigation workshops and safety briefings for kayaking and snowshoeing, will also be held.By the end of Day 3, the first sighting of icebergs and snow-capped peaks will signal your arrival at the South Shetland Islands.
Day 3 - Days 4 - 7: Whale Research Operations - Antarctic Peninsula
Core science days in areas around and along the Gerlache Strait. Potential activities include (dependent on conditions & permitting):Zodiac-Based Whale ObservationConduct whale observation and behavioral logging from Zodiac vessels in active feeding and transit areas.Deployment and recovery of research equipmentDeploy and recover underwater acoustic instruments used to record and analyze marine mammal presence and communication.Fluke Photo-ID sessionsParticipate in fluke photo-identification sessions to help track individual whales across sightings.Data Review & ProcessingEngage in evening sessions reviewing collected data, processing video, and discussing preliminary findings onboard.These days are based around collecting data through our field operations and ecosystem-focused exploration. Shore landings may complement at-sea research, connecting whale behavior to broader Antarctic food web dynamics.
Day 4 - Days 8 - 10: Extended Science & Ecosystem Integration
Extended flexibility to revisit productive areas and continue ecosystem-focused exploration.These additional days allow flexibility to revisit productive whale areas or shift focus based on conditions and research progress.Other included and optional activities during your time in Antarctica include kayaking, hiking, and taking a dip into the icy cold Antarctic Sea.Adaptive Research PlanningAdjust routes and operations dynamically to maximize opportunities for meaningful observations and data collection.Revisiting Whale HotspotsReturn to previously active marine areas to continue tracking whale presence and behavior patterns.KayakingExplore calm waters at close range, offering a unique perspective of the Antarctic environment.Hiking & Shore ExplorationStep ashore for guided hikes across glacial landscapes and panoramic viewpoints.Polar PlungeTake an optional dip into the icy Antarctic waters for a memorable expedition experience.
Day 5 - Day 11: Farewell Landings
As the expedition heads back north, there's an opportunity for a final landing or zodiac cruise. Weather and ice conditions permitting, explore destinations like Brown Bluff, where towering cliffs and an Adélie penguin colony await, or Paulet Island, home to historic sites and abundant wildlife.
Day 6 - Day 12: Crossing the Drake Passage
Relive the journey north — final lectures, seabird spotting, and a celebratory dinner.
Day 7 - Day 13: Return to Ushuaia
Arrive back in Ushuaia in the early morning. After breakfast, disembark with cherished memories of an epic Antarctic expedition and new stories to tell.
Day 8 - Please note:
The above itinerary is a general guideline. Our precise route and activities will be adjusted to optimize wildlife viewing and adapt to prevailing weather and ice conditions. The Captain and/or Expedition Leader will make necessary changes to ensure the best possible experience. A daily program will be provided onboard. Flexibility is essential for a successful expedition. Whilst our focus is on early exploration landing sites cannot be guaranteed.
Day 9 - Daya 11-12: Crossing the Drake Passage (Northbound)
 Relive your adventures as you cross the Drake Passage, keeping an eye out for seabirds and whales along the way. Take part in final lectures or workshops, and enjoy a celebratory dinner with your fellow travellers as you reflect on the unforgettable journey.
Day 10 - Day 13: Return to Ushuaia
 Arrive back in Ushuaia in the early morning. After breakfast, disembark with cherished memories of an epic Antarctic expedition and new stories to tell.
Day 11 - Please note:
The above itinerary is a general guideline. Our precise route and activities will be adjusted to optimize wildlife viewing and adapt to prevailing weather and ice conditions. The Captain and/or Expedition Leader will make necessary changes to ensure the best possible experience. A daily program will be provided onboard. Flexibility is essential for a successful expedition. Whilst our focus is on early exploration landing sites cannot be guaranteed.

Trip Dates

StartEndPrice FromRoom Type
07-03-202719-03-2027USD $10,980Discovery Quad Cabin
07-03-202719-03-2027USD $11,910Discovery Triple Cabin
07-03-202719-03-2027USD $13,140Odyssey Single Cabin
07-03-202719-03-2027USD $13,140Odyssey Twin Cabin
07-03-202719-03-2027USD $14,250Superior Cabin
07-03-202719-03-2027USD $15,990Deluxe Cabin
07-03-202719-03-2027USD $17,470Premium Cabin
07-03-202719-03-2027USD $19,120Owner’s Suite

Inclusions

    • Engage in whale research and observe marine mammals in their natural Antarctic habitat
    • With a true expedition mindset, we aim to venture beyond the Antarctic Circle. Reaching one of the most remote frontiers on Earth.
    • Explore the Antarctic Peninsula's dramatic icebergs and glaciers
    • Encounter abundant wildlife — penguins, seals, and whales
    • Daily Zodiac landings and cruises for wildlife encounters on shore
    • Kayaking through pristine Antarctic waters
    • included at no extra cost
    • Expert-guided excursions into Antarctica's history, ecology, and wildlife

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