Passenger Info

You will have the opportunity to take some marvellous photographs including stunning scenery and the incredible abundance of wildlife.

Here are a few points for photography worth bearing in mind:

• Check that your camera is working well before you leave home!
• Bring some extra memory cards if you have a digital camera. If you’re using film, take as many pictures as you can… and keep in mind that you go through a lot of film in Antarctica!
• It is good to have two cameras, spare batteries and lenses from 28mm to 200mm telephoto, or if you have up to 500mm for close ups. Be aware that some batteries may not have a good performance in cold weather.
• Favorite lenses are: 20-35 mm, 35-70mm, and 80-200mm. It is not recommended to change your lenses outdoors, or you may get moisture or condensation inside the camera.
• We do not recommend using a polarizer. It takes the sparkle away from the ice and snow, which brings the ice alive. Also, the skies get too dark, almost black.
• Telephoto is great here to capture the distant animals. Respect their homes and get close via zoom. Don't forget the wide-angle lens to capture the real expanse and vastness that is found nowhere else.
• Many digital compact cameras now have a snow scene mode. Set the camera to this if it has one.
• If it is available on your digital camera, it is recommended to shoot in RAW to be able to do some editing afterwards.
• If you are very serious about getting excellent shots, a tripod gives you more potential but it certainly is not mandatory.
• Be aware that Antarctic conditions can be very harsh on camera equipment. Please aim to carry plenty of protection for your camera against salt spray, snow or rain. Please bring a sealable ‘Pelican Case', a waterproof day pack or ‘dry bags', but do not bring lightweight plastic or rubbish bags because its too easy for such bags to blow away in contravention of our obligation under the Antarctic Treaty.
• Weatherproof protectors and containers are recommended for your gear and also your memory cards storage.
• Also keep with you a soft lens tissue or microfiber cloth to clean your lens if necessary.
• Digital cameras allow photographers to capture images on flashcards instantaneously. We recommend that you bring your own laptop and enough chips or cards as a backup.
• Unfortunately drones or UAVs are not welcome on board the USHUAIA as we are not allowed to operate these according to the IAATO guidelines.

Most importantly: Forget the camera from time to time and just enjoy the spectacular scenery and wildlife!

To help you prepare for your expedition, we have prepared a list of recommended items to pack. Please keep in mind this list is simply a guideline, which you may choose to modify to fit your individual comfort needs.

Please also see our guide How to dress in Antarctica" (Powerpoint slideshow) prepared by Agustín Ullmann, which shows you the best way to keep warm!

Expedition Clothing (Comfortable, Durable & Loose)

Waterproof Gear:

• Rain jacket
• Waterproof trousers
• Rubber boots

Pull-on, unlined, knee-high boots are required for wet landings. Boots must be 14”-16” high with strong, rubber-ridge, non-skid soles. These specifications are very important. You may be stepping into water up to 10” deep on wet landings. Moon or leather boots are NOT appropriate.

A supply of rubber boots or Wellingtons, are available on board the USHUAIA and includes a wide variety of sizes. It is recommended that you bring your own only if you require a special size. Please note that the boots on board have been used by previous passengers.

Outerwear

• Parka (Water-repellent hooded parka)
• Waterproof gloves or mittens
• Hat, scarf, or other face protection
• Jacket or sweaters

It is best to bring at least one lightweight and one heavy jacket or sweater. Sweatshirts, turtlenecks, and fleece pullovers are also good Insulators. Layering with wool, silk or synthetics fabrics, rather than cotton, is recommended.

 

Other Clothing

• Woollen socks
• Warm pants
• Thermal or long underwear
• Light-weight shirts and T-shirts

Clothing on board
Comfortable and casual clothing, in the expedition spirit, is recommended for the vessel. Appropriate footwear includes at least one pair of deck-type, rubber-soled shoes.

Other Gear

• Sunscreen and lip protection (Minimum SPF 15)
• Sunglasses
• Binoculars
• Plastic bags - Plastic zip-lock bags will protect your camera and binoculars from wave splash and spray while in Zodiacs
• Backpack

Other recommended gear are face masks. In general, use of face masks are not obligatory on our ship. However, we strongly recommend to bring your own supply of FFP2, N95 or surgical masks for your own safety.

Antarpply Expeditions has partnered with Adventure Gear Rentals services to provide quality, reliable rentals with convenient delivery options.

Please note, Wellingtons, size 35 (US4) up to size 45 (US11), are available on board the USHUAIA free of charge but are not insulated and sizes cannot be reserved in advance.

Orders must be placed online at https://antarpply.shiptoshoretraveler.com at least two weeks before your embarkation date to ensure the delivery of items. Rental items will be delivered to you at the ship. They will be collected from you when you disembark at the end of your voyage.

Here is a brief selection of favorite, new and hard-to-find books, prepared for your journey. We have included Amazon US links to purchase them from, but of course they will also be available in good Independent bookshops. 

We have listed a few books here that we consider essential reading. A PDF of all our recomendations can be downloaded here.

ESSENTIAL

Alfred Lansing
Endurance, Shackleton’s Incredible Voyage
History | 2015 | PAPER | 416 pages | Favorite
Lansing's gripping day-by-day story of Shackleton's legendary perseverance is essential reading for any Antarctic traveler. This 100th anniversary edition is outfitted with maps, an expanded selection of Frank Hurley's photographs and an introduction by Nathaniel Philbrick.
Endurance" target="_blank">Amazon US

Wayne Lynch
Penguins of the World
Natural History | 2007 | PAPER | 176 pages | Favorite
Lynch weaves delightful tales of penguins, their habitats and habits, with hundreds of glorious full-color photographs.
Amazon US

Ron Naveen
The Oceanites Site Guide to the Antarctic Peninsula
Guidebook | 2005 | FLEXI-BOUND | 129 pages | Hard to Find
This guide, which supports the Antarctic Site Inventory Project, covers 40 prime visitor sites in detail. It also includes some of the best photography we've seen. Second edition.
Amazon US

Tony Soper
Antarctica, A Guide to the Wildlife
Field Guide | 2013 | PAPER | 160 pages
Designed for the field, this compact handbook features all the species of birds, seals and whales the traveler is likely to encounter on an Antarctic voyage.
Amazon US

Ocean Explorer
Antarctic Explorer Map
Reference | 2009 | MAP | 1 page
A full-color map of the Antarctic Peninsula, including Tierra del Fuego, the Falklands and South Georgia, at a scale of 1:2,750,000. With a map of the Antarctic continent on the reverse.
Amazon US

 

The parents are responsible for their children at all times, on land and on board. Our staff is not responsible for babysitting etc., and they must stay with the groups at all times and follow the instructions and directions of the Expedition Leader and his staff. Passengers must make sure that the children are supervised at all times and the children are not allowed to run on board or on deck. Small children should be kept in a harness while on deck and must be accompanied by a parent.

Children must wear the special life vests when boarding the zodiacs. However, decisions if children may disembark or not will be taken by the Captain for each landing according to the prevailing landing conditions. Safety is first and foremost.

On board our vessel we do not have any child facilities. We do not provide toys, coloring books etc, therefore parents are kindly requested to bring their own to entertain their children.

We regret not to be able to provide any medication suitable for children on board the USHUAIA, the parents must bring adequate medication, especially for seasickness.

Should a situation arise that the parents and/or children need to be evacuated to a hospital; there is no hospital in Antarctica and evacuation to the continent may take several days or may not always be possible. The small infirmary on board is merely suitable for first aid treatment.

Passengers must have an appropriate insurance including evacuation and repatriation coverage. All costs for any evacuation are for the passengers account.

Unfortunately we cannot offer any children's discount.

Announcements
All announcements are made via our Public Announcement (PA) system on board. The bridge announces interesting events and wildlife attractions. Should there be an emergency call from the bridge we will make sure that you receive it!

Bridge
During the 2023-24 season we will offer limited visits to the bridge.

Cabins
Your cabin attendant will make your cabin in the morning.

• Change of bedlinen - Your bedlinen will be changed once a trip. If you prefer to have it changed more frequently please inform our Hotel Manager.
• Change of Towels - In order to limit the use of washing powder for our environment, we only change your towels upon request. Please leave your towels on the floor if you want them changed. If you hang up your towel we understand that you will use it again. Thank you for your cooperation.
• Toilets - The marine toilets are very efficient but also very sensitive. Please treat them gently and do not put anything into them except small amounts of toilet paper. Dispose of used tissues, etc. in the garbage can.
• Water supply - The water from the tap is safe to drink. Fresh water is produced by evaporating and condensing seawater. Normally there is no reason for water-rationing on board, but water conservation is encouraged.

Communication

Telephone
The USHUAIA is equipped with the INMARSAT system, which allows direct communication with the ship by telephone from any location in the world. For communications with the USHUAIA from home you will receive a list of numbers prior to your departure. Communications from the ship will be available from two public telephones. The rate per card to access these phones will be advised on board. Please contact the Hotel Manager on board for further details on the country zones and the rates per minute.

Email and Internet access
Internet cards can be purchased for 500MB to have internet access. Kindly note that Wi-Fi will be available in the Lounge/Bar area exclusively and passengers can access the internet from their own devices only.

Conservation
Please keep in mind that many of the places you are visiting on the voyages are unique. We at Antarpply Expeditions are very proud of our outstanding reputation for conservation and respect for all the ecosystems we visit. Please assist us in maintaining this reputation. Our lecturers and staff will accompany you on shore excursions and provide you with guidance and specific information for the region. We kindly ask you to bring back any kind of garbage to the ship where it will be correctly disposed of. For cruises to Antarctica you will receive our Antarctic Guidelines with your travel documents.

Covid-19
We have put in place procedures in regard to Covid-19 to ensure the health and safety of our guests and crew members. As the requirements may be subject to change, we recommend checking our complete Covid-19 Recommendations published here before your departure.

Covid-19 Testing
No mandatory preventive testing will take place on board.  

Currency
Currency aboard the USHUAIA is US Dollar.
Cash payments are accepted in US Dollars or Euro. Credit card payments for a minimum charge of US$100 can be processed via PayPal (see Payment below).

Daily Program
Each evening during the Recap the daily program for the next day will be presented by your Expedition Leader. Included in the program is information about the next day’s activities, events, landing times, meal times, and lecturers.
Please remember that the expeditionary nature of this voyage may result in changes to the daily program due to sea, weather, ice and local conditions. Also, your Captain and Expedition Team may deviate from the program to take advantage of unexpected opportunities such as wildlife sightings, advantageous sea conditions, or other local events. 
Any changes to the daily program will be announced over the PA system. We thank you in advance for your understanding and flexibility.

Dietary Requests
With advance notice, our Executive Chef will happily accommodate a variety of special dietary requests. Please note that it is imperative to inform Antarpply Expeditions three weeks prior to your departure at the latest. Kindly also state this request on your Booking Form. We regret that Kosher meals are not available. 

Dining Room
The Dining Room on the Main Deck F comfortably accommodates all guests at a single seating.
There is an open seating for all meals and guest tables are unassigned.

Dress Attire on Board
Casual attire (expedition style) is the accepted apparel for the voyage. Clothing should be comfortable and versatile as described in the detailed packing list enclosed with your preliminary documentation.

Dress Attire on Shore
Comfortable, casual clothing in expedition spirit is the rule for attire worn on shore excursions. The most important factor in determining appropriate clothing for your time ashore will be your route and mode of travel. Please refer to the detailed packing list enclosed with your preliminary documentation.

Electrical Appliances and Outlets
Electric current on board is 110 V/ 60 Hz and cabins are fitted with multi-type sockets suitable for several international plugs. However, we recommend to bring necessary converters and any special adapters with you as only a limited number can be borrowed on board.

Some outlets in public areas are 220v-240v and are clearly marked. However, they are fitted with Argentine outlets. This plug has two flat pins in V-shape and also has a grounding pin. The ungrounded version of this plug with only two flat V-shaped pins or a plug with two thin round pins also work.

 

Emails on board the USHUAIA
Please see COMMUNICATION (above).

Emergency
In case of emergency please call the Bridge (phone #108). When in port, please contact the watchman at the gangway.

Expeditionary Staff
Your voyage will be directed by an Expedition Leader in conjunction with staff assistants, zodiac drivers, and a team of lecturers. Staff members are specially selected and trained to provide an eventful cruise.

Gift shop
The gift shop on the Main Deck F is stocked with ladies and men’s clothing, sundry items, apparel, gift and souvenir items. Please see the daily program for opening hours.

Gratuities
The customary gratuity to the ship’s service personnel is made as a blanket contribution at the end of the voyage and is divided among the crew. You will receive detailed guidelines aboard.

Tipping is a very personal matter and the amount you wish to give is at your discretion. As a generally accepted guideline, we suggest not less than US$15 per person per day. Cash US Dollars would be appreciated, unfortunately credit cards cannot be accepted.

Hairdryers
All cabins are equipped with a hairdryer for your comfort.

Heating
The ship is fully climate controlled. Each cabin is equipped with individual temperature controls. Please contact our staff in case you wish to change these controls to your own comfort level.

Itinerary changes
The highest priority of the Captain is always safety for passengers and ship. Therefore we might have to change the itinerary due to local conditions and unforeseeable reasons. Please rest assured that the crew will do their utmost to offer you the best possible alternatives.

Language
As part of your voyage experience, you will find many languages are spoken aboard the ship.

English and Spanish are the languages used and spoken by all officers and crew (although some crew members may only speak Spanish). Lectures are given in English and Spanish.

Laundry and Valet Service
We regret not to be able to offer Laundry or Dry Cleaning services on board.

Lecturers
Our team of lecturers will accompany you throughout your voyage. While they will give lectures and lead shore excursions, they will also be on hand to answer your questions and provide ready knowledge throughout the day. Antarpply Expeditions has selected these lecturers for both their professional accomplishments and reputations. We hope you enjoy exploring with them.

Lectures and Films
Both lectures and films are offered in the observation lounge / lecture room with modern multimedia equipment on the Main Deck F. Passengers are encouraged to participate in all the ship’s activities, including the stimulating and informative lectures.

Library
The ship’s library on the Main Deck F contains a good selection of international titles, with an emphasis on reference material essential to your voyage. A variety of games, including playing cards and board games, are also at your disposal.

Life Vest
You have been provided with a lightweight inflatable life jacket, which inflates automatically by pulling the rip-cord. These life jackets must be worn at all times in the zodiac while cruising. Please take care of your life jacket. It will be collected at the end of the cruise.

Additionally there is a large “heavy duty” life jacket in your cabin, which is to be used in case of ship emergency and for life boat drills.

Lost and Found
Lost and found items can be left with/recovered on board. Please contact the Hotel Manager.

At the end of each voyage all items will be sent to our office in Ushuaia. Should you miss something, please do not hesitate to contact Antarpply Expeditions at phone +54 (2901) 433636/436747, or email: info@antarpply.com.

Masks
In general, use of face masks are not obligatory on our ship. However, we strongly recommend to bring your own supply of FFP2, N95 or surgical masks for your own safety.

Meals on Board
You will find the following dining options while aboard the USHUAIA:

• Continental and American Breakfast Buffet
• Buffet or Seated Served Lunch
• Afternoon Tea
• Three-course Dinner

Meal times vary depending upon shore excursions. Coffee and tea is offered throughout the day.

Medical Facilities
A qualified physician accompanies every voyage to provide both emergency and routine health care. The ship’s infirmary is located on Deck E. Office hours are posted in your daily program. In case of emergency, please call the bridge (phone #108). If you suspect to have Covid-19 symptoms, please stay in your cabin and call the bridge (phone #108). There will be no charge for these consultations.

There is a charge for this consultation:

• In ship's infirmary US$ 20
• In your cabin US$ 25

Seasickness is treated free of charge. If you are in need of constant and / or special medication, please make sure you bring a sufficient supply as the infirmary only carries supplies for emergency medication.

Motion Sickness
Note: This section is for your reference only and should not be construed as medical advice. Many of the treatments mentioned here may have side effects. Always check with your own doctor before taking medications. The ship’s doctor is also available for advice.

Seasickness, or mal de mer, is an unpleasant - but generally treatable - condition. There are a variety of effective over-the-counter and prescription remedies. Remember that these treatments are generally most effective when taken BEFORE the onset of nausea; so if you are prone to seasickness, consider taking a preventative before sailing or entering open seas.

Other treatments include inter-dermal patches and bands. To avoid seasickness, limit your time below deck. Fresh air and watching the horizon can help to allay symptoms.

Open Door Policy
The USHUAIA maintains an open-door policy. If you wish to store your valuables, please contact the Hotel Manager.

Passports
All passports are collected upon embarkation and kept with the purser during the voyage. Passports must be kept for administrative and safe-keeping purposes.

Payment: Your Personal Account
We suggest that you bring at least US$400 to US$500 (in small bills). On most voyages, particularly to Antarctica, this sum should be more than sufficient spending money as we will be navigating through isolated areas where spending opportunities are rare.

For services rendered aboard the ship, you will be provided with a personal account using a “chit” system. Your purchases will be kept on record and totalled at the end of your voyage. Your account must be settled prior to disembarkation in cash (U.S. Dollar and Euro). If you prefer to pay by credit card (available for charges over US$100), please advise the Hotel Manager at the beginning of the voyage. Kindly keep in mind that the payment by credit card will be processed via PayPal, so we highly recommend to bring extra cash in case the internet connection fails or your payment is denied. Unfortunately, we cannot accept gratuities by credit card.

Phone on board the USHUAIA
Please see COMMUNICATION (above), for detailed information.

Photographic Etiquette
When photographing do not approach wildlife to the point that it becomes frightened, agitated, or must flee. Give extra space to animals with young. Special guidelines will be provided. In some areas, photographing military installations, airports, and other sensitive objects is restricted. Your Expedition Team will advise you of local regulations.

Recaps and Briefings
On a daily basis, the Expedition Team will summarize experiences ashore and update you on our plans for the next day. These informal sessions are generally held during cocktail hour.

Rubber Boots
A supply of rubber boots or Wellingtons is available on board and includes a wide variety of sizes. It is recommended that you bring your own only if you require a special size. Please note that the boots on board have been used by previous passengers.

Safety at Sea
Our highest priority during your cruise is the personal safety of all passengers and crew. Our vessel meets all international requirements as well as U.S. Coast Guard Guidelines. Officers and crew are well trained and regularly practice emergency procedures to ensure your comfort and safety. Within 24 hours of embarkation there will be an emergency drill which all guests are required to participate. Through this exercise, you will become familiar with procedures that must be followed in the unlikely event of an emergency.

Please be aware:

• Always obey all safety announcements given by the Captain, the officers, or your Expedition Team.
• For your safety and the safety of your fellow passengers, please do not leave any china or glass on the outside decks.
• The exterior decks may be wet - we ask you therefore not to run but to walk slowly and hold on to the ship’s railings.
• We recommend all ladies to wear low heel shoes for their own comfort and safety.
• In rough seas please hold on to banisters and fixed objects. Please expect pitching and rolling, especially in the ice, as there will be sudden lurches, rolls and other motions as the ships sails through the ice. Use the handrails whenever possible, especially going up stairways, ladders etc.
• Please mind the high steps in many exterior doorways. When passing through all doorways, and while in your cabin, PLEASE DO NOT PLACE YOUR HANDS ON THE EDGE OF THE DOORS. A lurching movement could slam the door on your fingers.

Sanitation

Shore Excursions
Shore excursions will be outlined during recap and briefings the day before. Before disembarkation information on the length of time on land and the type of landing (“wet” or “dry”) will be announced. Your Expedition Team will accompany you on daily shore excursions and provide you with extensive information. Please carefully follow their instructions and advice.

Smoking Policy
Smoking is permitted on all exterior decks with the exception of the “Zodiac Deck”. Inside the ship, all areas, including cabins, are designated non-smoking. For safety and environmental reasons, NEVER throw cigarette butts or other (burning) materials into the sea!

Social Distancing
We advise that you maintain distance where possible in public areas.

Valuables
Your cabin is not equipped with a safety deposit box. However any valuables such as money, jewellery or documents could be deposited with the hotel manager who will store them safely for you. Antarctic Travel company is not responsible for the loss of personal effects and valuables. 

Weather and Sea Conditions
Weather and sea conditions play important roles in expeditionary cruising. All planned activities are subject to modification or cancellation due to changing weather and/or sea conditions. We thank you in advance for your understanding and flexibility.

Wildlife Watch
During the time we are in areas where there is a possibility of sighting wildlife, the ships’ officers and staff are constantly on the lookout. However, please don’t hesitate to report a sighting to the bridge or staff. If we are fortunate enough to sight wildlife, we will announce it from the bridge, regardless of the hour. If you wish to go back to sleep please do so!

Zodiacs
The USHUAIA carries her own fleet of zodiacs and RIB’s. Zodiacs accommodate up to 12 guests and, in the hands of our skilled boatmen, are stable, safe and manoeuvrable. Constructed of high-performance plastimer fabrics, with several airtight compartments, they are easy to board and disembark. Their versatility, their ability to open whole new worlds of exploration make zodiacs the key to expedition cruising enabling you to go ashore and investigate some of the world’s most unique regions. Instructions will be provided on how to properly embark and disembark these water craft.

Communications with the ship are affected by the ship's position in regards to the satellite coverage and local weather conditions. It may take several attempts before you are successful in making contact. The ship is likely to be out of reach of the satellite above 70 - 74 degrees South (depending on local circumstances). 

On board the USHUAIA, we have communication facilities to send and receive messages through email.

How to contact the ship?

By email:
Email address of the USHUAIA is: buque.ushuaia@antarpply.com

By phone:
PHONE: +(International access code) 1 346 209 2532

Sending messages from the ship::

Internet cards can be purchased for 500MB to have internet access. Kindly note that Wi-Fi will be available in the Lounge/Bar area exclusively and passengers can access the internet from their own devices only. Phone calls are available from public phones. Please contact the Hotel Manager on board for further details for the country zones and rates per minute.

N.B. The above information is subject to change.

Ushuaia - Pier Information:
No ground transfers are provided in Ushuaia.

Please proceed on your own to the pier located in the center of the town. Embarkation is at 4 pm on the day of departure.

We do recommend that you arrive a day earlier in Ushuaia to have some additional time in case of flight delays and lost luggage. Please note that the vessel will sail at 6 pm and will not be able to wait for missing passengers or luggage.

Ushuaia’s port is located on Maipu avenue. The main entrance to the pier is on Lasserre street, opposite of the Hotel Albatros. It is only about fifteen minutes from the airport. A taxi or ‘remise’ will currently cost approximately US$8.00.

Please note the following new regulations and procedure to access the port:

• Please proceed to the port at 3.30 pm.
• Embarkation starts at 4 pm on board the USHUAIA. Please note that we cannot embark any passengers prior to this time.
• You must be able to show your passport and voucher with your cruise details. If you have forgotten it or can’t find it please contact our office in Ushuaia: Gobernador Paz 633, 1° floor – or call us at phone +54 (2901) 433636 or 436747.
• All your luggage will be scanned. Please let the authorities know if you are carrying films or any other sensitive objects.
• Please remember that once you have checked-in on board the USHUAIA, you will not be able to disembark.

In case you hire the services of a Tourism agency, or any other private transportation such as taxis or ‘remises’, please ensure that they are authorized to enter the port area.

Should you not be able to find the pier, you can always contact our Port Agent:
Kovacic Services Company. Manuel Fernandez 813, 9410 Ushuaia, Tierra del Fuego, Argentina. Cell phone +54 9 2901 608835.

Disembarkation
The ship arrives at 7 am on the date of arrival and disembarkation is normally at 8.00/ 8.30 am. We strongly recommend not to book flights departing before noon time.

Visitor Guidelines Recommendation XVIII-1
Guidance for Visitors to the Antarctic
Recommendation XVIII-1, adopted at The Antarctic Treaty meeting, Kyoto, 1994

Activities in the Antarctic are governed by the Antarctic Treaty of 1959 and associated agreements, referred to collectively as the Antarctic Treaty System. The Treaty established Antarctica as a zone of peace and science.

In 1991, the Antarctic Treaty Consultative Parties adopted the Protocol on Environmental Protection to the Antarctic Treaty, which designates the Antarctic as a natural reserve. The Protocol sets out environmental principles, procedures and obligations for the comprehensive protection of the Antarctic environment, and its dependent and associated ecosystems. The Consultative Parties have agreed that as far as possible and in accordance with their legal system, the provisions of the Protocol should be applied as appropriate. The Environmental Protocol was ratified in January 1998.

The Environmental Protocol applies to tourism and non-governmental activities, as well as governmental activities in the Antarctic Treaty Area. It is intended to ensure that these activities, do not have adverse impacts on the Antarctic environment, or on its scientific and aesthetic values.

This Guidance for Visitors to the Antarctic is intended to ensure that all visitors are aware of, and are therefore able to comply with, the Treaty and the Protocol. Visitors are, of course, bound by national laws and regulations applicable to activities in the Antarctic.

Protect Antarctic Wildlife
Taking or harmful interference with Antarctic wildlife is prohibited except in accordance with a permit issued by a national authority.

• Do not use aircraft, vessels, small boats, or other means of transport in ways that disturb wildlife, either at sea or on land.
• 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.
• Do not damage plants, for example by walking, driving, or landing on extensive moss beds or lichen-covered scree slopes.
• Do not use guns or explosives. Keep noise to the minimum to avoid frightening wildlife.
• Do not bring non-native plants or animals into the Antarctic, such as live poultry, pet dogs and cats, or house plants.

Respect Protected Areas
A variety of areas in the Antarctic have been afforded special protection because of their particular ecological, scientific, historic, or other values. Entry into certain areas may be prohibited except in accordance with a permit issued by an appropriate national authority.

Activities in and near designated Historic Sites and Monuments and certain other areas may be subject to special restrictions.

• Know the locations of areas that have been afforded special protection and any restrictions regarding entry and activities that can be carried out in and near them.
• Observe applicable restrictions.
• Do not damage, remove, or destroy Historic Sites or Monuments or any artifacts associated with them.

Respect Scientific Research
Do not interfere with scientific research, facilities or equipment.

• Obtain permission before visiting Antarctic science and support facilities; reconfirm arrangements 24-72 hours before arrival; and comply with the rules regarding such visits.
• Do not interfere with, or remove, scientific equipment or marker posts, and do not disturb experimental study sites, field camps, or supplies.

Be Safe
Be prepared for severe and changeable weather and ensure that your equipment and clothing meet Antarctic standards. Remember that the Antarctic environment is inhospitable, unpredictable, and potentially dangerous.

• Know your capabilities and the dangers posed by the Antarctic environment, and act accordingly. Plan activities with safety in mind at all times.
• Keep a safe distance from all wildlife, both on land and at sea.
• Take note of, and act on, the advice and instructions from your leaders; do not stray from your group.
• Do not walk onto glaciers or large snow fields without the proper equipment and experience; there is a real danger of falling into hidden crevasses.
• Do not expect a rescue service. Self-sufficiency is increased and risks reduced by sound planning, quality equipment, and trained personnel.
• Do not enter emergency refuges (except in emergencies). If you use equipment or food from a refuge, inform the nearest research station or national authority once the emergency is over.
• Respect any smoking restrictions, particularly around buildings, and take great care to safeguard against the danger of fire. This is a real hazard in the dry environment of Antarctica.

Keep Antarctica Pristine
Antarctica remains relatively pristine, the largest wilderness area on Earth. It has not yet been subjected to large-scale human perturbations. Please keep it that way.

• Do not dispose of litter or garbage on land. Open burning is prohibited.
• Do not disturb or pollute lakes or streams. Any materials discarded at sea must be disposed of properly.
• Do not paint or engrave names or graffiti on rocks or buildings.
• Do not collect or take away biological or geological specimens or man-made artifacts as a souvenir, including rocks, bones, eggs, fossils, and parts or contents of buildings.
• Do not deface or vandalize buildings or emergency refuges, whether occupied, abandoned, or unoccupied.

Going Ashore in Antarctica

We would also like to draw your attention to a film created by IAATO (International Association of Antarctica Tour Operators) for visitors to Antarctica.

The animation uses beautiful wooden puzzle pieces to reflect Antarctica´s extraordinary natural environment, communicating important guidelines on staying safe and having no more than a minor or transitory impact. These include avoiding the introduction of non-native species, behaviour around wildlife, respecting historic and scientific sites, leaving no trace of your visit and not removing items of any sort.

Below please find the link to the film in English. Please note that the video is available in other languages as well. For a full list please click here

Antarctic Peninsula & South Shetland Islands

Antarctic wildlife is at its most active during the southern summer. The beauty and solitude of Antarctic seas and mountains conceals the frantic activity of the shoreline colonies of birds and mammals. In this five-month period, from November to March, we operate our expedition cruises aboard the USHUAIA. Summer arrives first in the South Shetland Islands and spreads south along the Antarctic Peninsula. As the Antarctic year progresses, from spring to autumn, the Antarctic Peninsula and surrounding islands change in appearance and character each season offering a different range of spectacular sights and possibilities to the visitor.

November - December (spring - early summer)
After the winter darkness, spring fever hits Antarctica and the sun causes an explosive growth of phytoplankton in areas of mineral upwelling. The phytoplankton provides food to the astronomic swarms of zooplankton, including krill. Krill forms the base of the food chain for squid, fish and ultimately for seabirds, seals and whales, which flock in to fatten themselves and to produce their young.

• Crabeater seals are born between September and November.
• Elephant seals guard their harems aggressively until December.
• The first big whales come down to Antarctica to feed, among them humpback, Minke and southern right whale.
• Amazing displays of the penguins' courtship ritual, including nest building, sky pointing and stone stealing.
• Penguin, petrel and cormorant eggs are laid in November and December.
• Penguin chicks start to hatch at the end of December in the South Shetland Islands.
• Wintering scientists at the research stations welcome the first visitors of the season.
• Longest days in December create longer daylight hours - photographs can be taken at midnight!
• Last winters sea-ice offers sometimes spectacular sailing among the floes with seals everywhere on the ice.

January - February (summer)
In Antarctica's warmest months wildlife activities are in full swing. Most penguin chicks hatch in January, earliest in the South Shetland Islands and later more to the south at the Peninsula. The frantic activity continues in the colonies in February as the young get older and bolder and are gathering in crèches.

• Fur seal and leopard seal pups are visible.
• Whale watching is at its best in February.
• Penguin colonies at their busiest, fetching krill and feeding chicks.
• In February receding ice allows exploration further south along the Antarctic Peninsula.
• Concentration of fur seals increases.

March (autumn)
Nightly darkness returns as the sun sinks farther below the southern horizon, but temperatures are still above zero, though we may experience a touch of Antarctic winter with night frosts, creating beautiful patterns of thin sea ice on the surface. The snow cover is at its minimum allowing for easy and extensive walks in the South Shetland Islands.

• Penguin chicks are in their adolescent state now and quite curious about visitors.
• The adult penguins moult and the young go to sea.
• Receding ice allows exploration farthest south along the Antarctic Peninsula.
• Spectacular green and pink algae blooms on snow-slopes and ice cliffs.
• Whale watching is still very good.

In Falkland Islands and South Georgia spring and summer arrive earlier than in the South Shetlands & the Antarctic Peninsula and consequently the breeding activities of sea-birds and sea mammals start earlier there. South Georgia is home to several birds with a cycle longer than one year, so eggs and young in King Penguin colonies can always be found from November to March. November is full spring in South Georgia, comparable with December in the South Shetlands, but without sea-ice.

Please find our Covid-19 Recommendations devised for the health and safety of our passengers, crew and staff here.

Since 2021 the increasing intensity of highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI) H5N1 outbreaks has resulted in the death of hundreds of thousands of seabirds around the world. Marine mammals, including seals and sea lions, have also been affected. On 25 February 2024, the first cases of avian influenza were confirmed in the Antarctic Treaty Area. The Antarctic community, from Antarctic Treaty parties to scientists, National Programs, and the International Association of Antarctica Tour Operators (IAATO) is concerned about the effect of avian influenza in Antarctica, and the serious impact it could have on the local wildlife. We are committed to the robust procedures in place to protect Antarctica from pathogens and non-native species, and with the confirmation of avian influenza in the region, we continue to have a heightened vigilance with regards to operations this season.

Here is how you can prevent it from being introduced and spread:

Before you leave home: ensure anything that may come into contact with the Antarctic environment - including clothing and equipment - is thoroughly cleaned and disinfected. Use IAATO’s Do not pack a pest guidance to assist you.

In Antarctica:

Existing protocols, including daily biosecurity procedures and maintaining minimum distances from wildlife, are an essential part of protecting Antarctica. In addition, it is required that you do not sit, kneel or lay down.

Equally important is, that you do not place equipment on the ground or snow. If in doubt, ask your guides for directions.

The areas where visitors are allowed are managed by IAATO. Although some landing sites may be inaccessible due to the spread of avian influenza, landings are still permitted at many sites. Before each landing, our team of guides and scientists will assess the site to make sure, that there are no sick animals. Please be patient and wait for them to finish the inspection, before going ashore.

Station visits were not allowed by any National Program for the 2023-24 season. Managing the risk of Covid-19 and Avian Influenza in Antarctica is the #1 priority of the National Antarctic Programs (NAPs). In order to reduce the risk of possible disease transfer vectors and not to interrupt the scientific works, all COMNAP and IAATO operators had agreed to not allow Station visits during the 2023-24 season even if IAATO vessels had been invited by the stations.

At the time of publication, the final decision for the 2024-25 season had not yet been made. Please note that it is expected that further updates may occur as the season progresses. Changes may depend on the conditions that all members observe at each landing site, and are likely to be based on feedback from operators and scientists in the region.

Safety is paramount in Antarpply Expeditions. We will proactively monitor any updates to modify and strengthen our onboard protocols to protect our passengers, wildlife and the local environment during our visit. See the IAATO Avian Influenza leaflet here.