Life-Changing Journeys to the Last Wild Place

Polar Latitudes

We are all explorers

From the minute we are born, we are born to explore. Join us on the trip of a lifetime. Indulge the inner explorer in you, as you discover the last wild, unpopulated, undisturbed place on planet Earth. Along the way, you might even discover yourself.

We started this company in 2010, born of a long-standing love for exploring this incredible continent, and a desire to pass that love on to as many people as possible. 11 years and many thousands of travelers later, our deep Antarctic experience has taught us a lot, and all the benefits of that experience are passed along to everyone who joins us. We like to say that on a Polar Latitudes voyage, we are all explorers. And at the end of each journey, our fellow explorers often comment that they felt like a part of the “Polar Latitudes family.” I like that.
We know that we are currently living in a time of uncertainty, but we remain steadfast in our long-term optimism, even in the face of some hard-to-miss changes taking place. 2021 will see a number of new ships coming into Antarctic waters, with an increased focus on amenities and on-board entertainment. To each his own, as they say. For us, the main attraction has always been making an up-close and personal connection with the last wild place on earth. And everything we do, on board and off, we do to enhance (not distract from) that experience. I assure you that will never change.

But we are introducing a new ship, and that’s one change we’re excited about. It’s called Seaventure — a purpose-built ship that sets the standard for safe, comfortable Polar travel. Seaventure will provide passengers with a slightly larger vessel, one that will allow us to deliver an even better small ship experience. It has an industry-high ice rating, and a newly built science lab that will afford even more opportunities to explore.
The feature we’re most proud of? Our many decades of collective experience traveling to this unique — and uniquely challenging — part of the world. No amenity can replace the value in that.
To this day, we remain founder-owned and run, and focused on delivering a boutique luxury experience for people who want a more immersive Antarctic journey. Every time out, watching our guests’ eyes light up makes it brand new for all of us, again and again. That’s another thing I’m pretty sure will never change.

John McKeon, President & Founding Partner

 

The most experienced crew on land, water, and ice

World class marine biologists, environmental scientists, ornithologists, and modern day explorers are all part of our expedition team – highly experienced, synced to your needs and interests, and with safety always top of mind. More than a team, though, this is a tight knit family. Most of us voyage together year after year, all share a deep love for Antarctica, and all take immense pleasure in making your trip one you’ll never forget.

Polar Latitudes is one of the few operators that require all operational staff to be certified as crew under the International Maritime Organization’s STCW standards. Furthermore, we are the first polar operator to adopt the Polar Tourism Guides Association (PTGA) guide qualification framework, a world first in training and certifying polar guides in the skills and experience required for our unique industry. Read more about why you should consider choosing PTGA accredited guides here.

The fleet

Introducing the MS SEAVENTURE (SVT)

Enhanced Features for a Better Small Ship Experience
MS Seaventure features a 1-A Super ice class rating — the highest ice class awarded to passenger vessels. She can explore places that ships with a lesser ice class simply can’t.
The ship also offers a host of new amenities, including a sauna, fitness center, custom-built citizen science lab, and heated saltwater pool. Increased storage space allows us to carry more adventure equipment, permitting more of our guests to participate in activities like kayaking and camping.
Large beautifully appointed common areas let guests spread out and relax, and the addition of a second kitchen offers more dining options, including al fresco dining when weather permits.
Come explore with us in comfort & style!

Choose from the following Suites :
Family Triple Stateroom (18,6 m2) > Standard Triple Stateroom (17,5 m2) > Porthole Stateroom (17,5 m2) > Window Stateroom (17,5 m2) > Veranda Stateroom (20,1 m2) > Owner’s Suite (30,8 m2)

Ship Facilities

  • Two Elevators serving all passenger decks
  • Free Internet on Computers in the Library
  • Fitness Center and Sauna
  • Lounge with AV Facilities
  • Heated saltwater Swimming Pool
  • Citizen Science Laboratory
  • 24 hour Coffee/Tea station
  • Multiple Dining Areas & Kitchens

All Suites Feature

  • Exterior views
  • Nearly all suites can be configured with your choice of one queen or two twin beds.
  • Sitting area with sofa and/or side chairs
  • Flat Screen TV
  • Telephone
  • En-suite temperature controls
  • Mini-Bar
  • Bathroom with fine toiletries
  • Hair dryer


Welcome back to MS ISLAND SKY (ISK)

Here are some excellent news!
The redeployment plan for Island Sky has been revised and she will now be returning to Antarctica with Polar Latitudes beginning in December of 2022. We’re thrilled to have her back!
Those who have traveled on Island Sky over the last four years know that she’s a fantastic platform for exploring Antarctica in comfort and style. It’s not just that she exudes old world charm, she is also one of the few ships in her class that boasts 3 decks of suites with sliding-glass doors, offering you immediate access to Antarctica from the privacy of your suite.  As an added bonus, we’ve upgraded the beverage package on board and all alcoholic and non-alcoholic drinks will be included for the entirety of the voyage.

Choose from the following Suites :
Porthole Suites (22 m2) > Triple Suites (21 m2) > Window Suites (21 m2) > Promenade Suites (20,4 m2) > Deluxe Suites (22 m2) > Veranda Suites (24 m2) > Penthouse Suites (30 m2) > Owner’s Suite (34 m2)
Owner’s, Penthouse & Veranda Suites feature private balconies

Ship Facilities

  • Elevator serving all passenger decks
  • Tinted sliding glass doors in all cabins on Promenade Deck 4
  • Panoramic Top Deck Observation Platform
  • Upgraded WiFi Internet
  • Library with computers
  • DVD Movie Library
  • 24 hour Coffee/Tea station
  • Bar/Lounge with Live Entertrainment
  • Audiovisual Facilities

All Suites Feature

  • Exterior views
  • Sitting area with sofa or side chairs and table
  • Flat Screen TV
  • Telephone
  • En-suite temperature controls
  • Complimentary Mini-Bar
  • Marble-appointed bathroom with fine toiletries
  • Hair dryer

Not cruises. Voyages !

22 days / 19 nights on board

Falklands, South Georgia & Antarctica

The sub-Antarctic Falkland Islands/Malvinas and South Georgia are home to some of the most unique and abundant wildlife on earth. With beaches covered in Fur seals, Elephant seals, and hundreds of thousands of penguins, it’s one of the most jaw-dropping nature scenes you will ever experience. We’ll also explore the fascinating history of the area, dating back to the grandiose times of the ‘Heroic Age of Antarctic Exploration’ of the late 1800s and early 1900s.

HIGHLIGHTS
• Exploring the port of Stanley, Falkland Islands/Malvinas
• Penguin rookeries with hundreds of thousands of birds on South Georgia
• A visit to Grytviken, a former whaling station, and the gravesite of Sir Ernest Shackleton
• Potential encounters with Orca, Humpback and Minke whales
• Zodiac cruising amongst colossal icebergs

Puerto Madryn - Ushuaia
Nov 3 – 24, 2021 (SVT)
Nov 1 - 22, 2022 (SVT)
From USD 16,145
13 days / 10 nights on board

Celebrating Antarctica

Antarctica is a fascinating and ever-changing environment. Our extensive experience navigating its shifting sea, ice and wind will ensure that you make the most of your journey. Prepare yourself for towering icebergs, awe-inspiring wildlife, and historical sites that will take you back to the very first days of Antarctic exploration.

HIGHLIGHTS
• Witness the stunning landscapes and beautiful bays and channels of the Peninsula
• Unforgettable wildlife encounters with numerous species of penguins, whales, seals and seabirds
• Zodiac cruising amongst immense glaciers and enormous icebergs
• Potential stops at active scientific bases and historical sites

Ushuaia - Ushuaia
Dec 7 – 19, 2022 (SVT)
Dec 29, 2022 – Jan 10, 2023 (ISK)
Jan 08 – 20, 2023 (ISK)
Jan 18 – 30, 2023 (ISK)
Jan 14 - 26, 2023 (SVT)
Feb 5 - 17, 2023 (SVT)
From USD 8,495
13 days / 10 nights on board

Holidays in Antarctica

The most magical way to spend the holiday season, discover the great white continent’s striking shores and endless vistas. Enjoy time exploring the abundant wildlife and rich biodiversity of the seas as you experience the last wild place on earth. Our team ensures that the spirit on board the ship is festive and fun !

HIGHLIGHTS
• A memorable Christmas Day exploring the South Shetland Islands
• Magnificent wildlife encounters with penguins, whales, seals, and seabirds
• Zodiac cruises through the stunning bays and channels of the Antarctic Peninsula
• Visits to numerous historic landing sites and working research bases
• A vibrant New Year’s Eve celebration in the Southern Ocean

Ushuaia - Ushuaia
Dec 20, 2021 – Jan 1, 2022 (SVT)
Dec 19 - 31, 2022 (ISK)
From USD 9,540
21 days / 18 nights on board

Falklands, South Georgia & Antarctica

The sub-Antarctic Falkland Islands/Malvinas and South Georgia are home to some of the most unique and abundant wildlife on earth. With beaches covered in Fur seals, Elephant seals, and hundreds of thousands of penguins, it’s one of the most jaw-dropping nature scenes you will ever experience. We’ll also explore the fascinating history of the area, dating back to the grandiose times of the ‘Heroic Age of Antarctic Exploration’ of the late 1800s and early 1900s.

HIGHLIGHTS
• Exploring the port of Stanley, Falkland Islands/Malvinas
• Penguin rookeries with hundreds of thousands of birds on South Georgia
• A visit to Grytviken, a former whaling station, and the gravesite of Sir Ernest Shackleton
• Potential encounters with Orca, Humpback and Minke whales
• Zodiac cruising amongst colossal icebergs

Ushuaia - Ushuaia
Dec 30, 2021 – Jan 19, 2022 (SVT)
Dec 27, 2022 - Jan 16, 2023 (SVT)
Jan 28 - Feb 17, 2023 (ISK)
From USD 16,750
15 days / 12 nights on board

Crossing the Circle

We chart a course through the Drake Passage and along the Antarctic Peninsula with the ambition of crossing the Antarctic Circle. The farther south we go, the more sea ice we are likely to encounter, along with incredible wildlife and awe-inspiring scenery. Should we arrive at 66°33’S, we’ll join the small band of explorers that can claim they have made it this far south.

HIGHLIGHTS
• Visits to some of the most stunning bays and channels of the Peninsula
• A valiant effort and anticipated success in reaching 66°33’S
• Magnificent wildlife encounters with penguins, whales, seals and seabirds
• Zodiac cruising amongst colossal glaciers and massive icebergs
• Potential stops at active scientific bases and historical sites

Ushuaia - Ushuaia
Jan 17 – 31, 2022 (SVT)
Jan 24 - Feb 7, 2023 (SVT)
From USD 11,165
12 days / 9 nights on board

Adventures in Antarctica

Come with us as we put 10 years of Antarctic travel experience to work, sharing the very best this continent has to offer, as only Polar Latitudes can. From the Antarctic Peninsula to the South Shetland Islands, from towering ice vistas to an overwhelming array of wildlife, just about the only thing you won’t experience on this trip is disappointment.

HIGHLIGHTS
• Visits to some of the most stunning bays and channels of the Peninsula
• Magnificent wildlife encounters with penguins, whales, seals, and seabirds
• Zodiac cruising amongst colossal glaciers and massive icebergs
• Potential stops at active scientific bases and historical sites

Ushuaia - Ushuaia
Jan 29 – Feb 9, 2022
Mar 8 – 19, 2022
Nov 19 - 30, 2022
Nov 28 - Dec 9, 2022
Feb 15 - 26, 2023
All voyages on Seaventure (SVT)
From USD 7,645
21 days / 18 nights on board

Shackleton's Final Quest

Follow in the footsteps of one of the greatest explorers of all time, Sir Ernest Shackleton, as we journey deep into Antarctica by way of the wildlife-rich Falkland Islands/Malvinas and South Georgia. We’ll explore the fascinating history of the area, dating back to the grandiose times of the ‘Heroic Age of Antarctic Exploration’ of the late 1800s and early 1900s, as we encounter jaw-dropping scenes in nature, colossal icebergs, and incredible wildlife.

HIGHLIGHTS
• Shackleton-focused programming both on board and at historical landing sites
• Exploring the port of Stanley, Falkland Islands/Malvinas
• Penguin rookeries with hundreds of thousands of birds on South Georgia
• A visit to Grytviken, a former whaling station, and the gravesite of Sir Ernest Shackleton
• Potential encounters with Orca, Humpback and Minke whales

Ushuaia - Ushuaia
Feb 7 – 27, 2022 (SVT)
SOLD OUT !
13 days / 10 nights on board

Christmas in Antarctica (NEW)

Celebrate with us and explore the majestic white continent, enjoying abundant wildlife encounters and the striking panoramic landscape of the Antarctic Sound, Weddell Sea and Antarctic Peninsula. Our team ensures that the spirit onboard the ship is festive and fun, delivering an unforgettable experience for your holiday season.

HIGHLIGHTS
• A memorable Christmas Day exploring the beauty of the Antarctic Peninsula
• A journey through the unique landscape of the Weddell Sea
• Wildlife encounters with penguins, whales, seals, and seabirds
• Zodiac cruising through the Antarctic Sound amongst colossal tabular icebergs
• Visits to numerous historic landing sites and working research bases

Ushuaia - Ushuaia
Dec 17 - 29, 2022 (SVT)
From USD 9,305
22 days / 19 nights on board

Antarctica, South Georgia & The Falklands (NEW)

We begin our journey setting a course through the Drake Passage straight to the heart of the Antarctic Peninsula. After enjoying our fill of stunning landscapes and abundant wildlife, we voyage north to the sub-Antarctic South Georgia and Falkland Islands/Malvinas. We’ll explore the captivating history of the area as well as visit beaches covered in fur seals, elephant seals, and hundreds of thousands of penguins.

HIGHLIGHTS
• Zodiac cruising in pristine bays and stunning harbors
• Potential encounters with Orca, humpback and minke whales
• Penguin rookeries with hundreds of thousands of birds on South Georgia
• A visit to Grytviken, a former whaling station, and the gravesite of Sir Ernest Shackleton
• Exploring the Port of Stanley, Falkland Islands, with the chance to attend ‘Falkstock’ a local festival

Ushuaia - Ushuaia
Feb 24 – Mar 17, 2023
From USD 16,145

Rates

Prices for these voyages to Antarctica are from/to Ushuaia. Up to 2 pre-voyage nights are included at the hotel Arakur in Ushuaia. Nov 3rd date includes 1 hotel night pre-embarkation in Puerto Madryn and 1 hotel night post-disembarkation in Ushuaia.

Rates vary depending on the voyage selected, its duration, the type of cabin and its occupancy (triple, double or single).
The above « From prices » are per person, in a Triple Cabin, and already consider the EBD (Early Booking Discount) of 15% on the base rate. These EBD are valid for confirmed bookings for November 3, 2021 and March 8, 2022 departures under deposit by September 30, 2021. EBD are valid for departures between November 2022 and March 2023 for confirmed bookings under deposit by June 30, 2021.
For bookings under deposit between July 1 and December 31, 2021, an 10% EBD is applied.

Contact us for all prices options !

Kayak option USD 895
Camp option USD 295

BROCHURE DOWNLOAD !
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Before / After

Begin your adventure at one of the Leading Hotels of the World

Located in a privileged environment, on a natural balcony 250 meters above sea level inside the Cerro Alarkén Nature Reserve, the Arakur Resort and Spa is much more than a luxury hotel. Surrounded by stunning panoramic views, native forests, natural terraces and green areas harmoniously integrated into the environment, it’s an experience that will be forever etched in your memory. All voyages that embark in Ushuaia begin with a stay at the Arakur. It is necessary to arrive in Ushuaia at least one day prior to the departure of the ship.

All expeditions to Antarctica combine very well with a tour in any part of Argentina, particularly in Patagonia. Contact us to design your itinerary and make a unique experience of your trip to the White Continent !

Contact us !

Activities

We’re serious about what we do. We also have fun.

There are as many reasons to sign up for an Antarctica voyage as there are people who do. But one thing people universally say when they return to port is that ours was one of the most fun trips they’ve ever been on. We’re proud of that. By day 3 the kayakers all know each other by name, the photography buffs are sharing astounding iceberg photographs with our photography coach and each other, dinners have become lively, celebratory affairs, and even our tight knit kitchen crew has a personality (and a song) all their own.

The below activities are available on all departures.

Citizen Sciences
There’s important work being done every day, at some of the most renowned climate research facilities around the world, to record and study the incredible changes happening in remote places like Antarctica. As you might imagine, gathering critical on-site data on a regular basis would be a virtually impossible task for these groups. So we do it for them, in partnership with research facilities like NASA and the Scripps Institute.
If you’d like to get a first-hand look at how climate change is impacting our birds, sea life, glaciers, oceans, and weather patterns, and help scientists better understand our evolving planet, you’re welcome to join our Citizen Science program. And don’t let the word “science” scare you. We make it informative, interactive, and fun.

Photography
Whatever your level of experience, and whatever camera you happen to carry, our award-winning photography coaches will help you bring home images that capture the unparalleled natural beauty and sheer magic of your Antarctica adventure. On every voyage, a dedicated photography coach will be at your disposal with invaluable tips and advice on how to capture the natural beauty of this unique landscape and all that inhabit it – in the unique light and weather conditions that can make Antarctica both special and challenging to photography lovers of all skill sets.

Kayaking
(Additional costs)
To experience Antarctica up close and personal, there’s really no better seat than the one in your own kayak, just inches above the water, navigating among icebergs and glacial ice dating back 30,000 years. Gliding through an otherworldly landscape with a small team, led by our expert guides and occasionally joined by a family of playful penguins or seals, this is about as intimate and magical as it gets.
Prior to your first kayaking adventure, our guides will do a thorough job of handing out and explaining all your gear, as well as the basic rules of operating an ocean kayak. Each morning, we’ll meet as a group, assess the weather conditions, and plan out the day.
Ideally, we’ll paddle daily; but of course, that’s always subject to the will of Antarctica’s unpredictable weather and ice. And there’s no pressure or commitment to join every outing. Even the heartiest of souls will sometimes skip an outing in favor of some extra sleep, a Zodiac outing, or a few hours curled up in our library with a good book.

Camping
(Additional costs)
What’s camping in Antarctica like? Long after most passengers are tucked away in their cabins, chances are you’ll still be lying awake, cozy in your tent and sleeping bag, captivated by the ethereal sounds of gently lapping waves, creaking glaciers and perhaps the blow of a whale passing in the night.
The air seems even more pure than in the daytime, the scale of your surroundings even more humbling, and by morning you’ll find yourself wondering how you could possibly describe this once-in-a-lifetime experience to friends back on board.
After dinner and a full briefing on board, day turns into dusk, and we head ashore to camp. We set up our tents on a breathtaking spot near the edge of the water, surrounded by a landscape rarely seen by human eyes.
On top of an insulated pad, you’ll lay cozy and warm in your sleeping bag, and proceed to get a small (albeit more toasty) taste of what it must have been like for the very first Antarctic explorers to camp on this continent. In the morning, we’ll break down our tents and head back to hot coffee and tea, perhaps a nice warm shower and, most definitely, a hearty breakfast.

This activity is only available on « Celebrating Antarctica », « Holidays in Antarctica » & « Crossing the Circle ».

Sometimes, the best plan is a change of plans

Antarctica is a spectacularly unpredictable environment. It’s one of the reasons we love going back again and again.

A 10-story iceberg suddenly appearing, a rarely accessible cove deciding to open its door, or a dozen curious whales breaking the water surface all around our vessel – these are just some of the experiences that can present themselves anytime, anywhere.

So while we offer a full range of programs and guided experiences on a daily basis, we also place a high priority on improvisation. If that means veering off course to get a glimpse of Antarctica rarely seen by human eyes, or suddenly calling a half-dozen Zodiacs into service to get a rare glimpse of a family of Orcas, it’s all part of the program with us.