Embark on one of the world’s most extraordinary polar expeditions—a rare semi-circumnavigation of Antarctica from South America to New Zealand. Sailing from Ushuaia to Dunedin aboard SH Minerva, this once-in-a-lifetime 33-night voyage ventures far beyond the traditional Antarctic Peninsula, exploring some of the most remote and least-visited regions on Earth. From the South Shetland Islands and the Antarctic Peninsula to the Ross Sea and New Zealand’s Subantarctic Islands, this epic expedition is designed for travellers seeking the ultimate Antarctic adventure.
Your journey begins in Ushuaia before crossing the legendary Drake Passage to the South Shetland Islands, where volcanic landscapes, penguin colonies and dramatic coastlines provide a spectacular introduction to Antarctica. The expedition continues along the Antarctic Peninsula, with opportunities for Zodiac cruises and guided shore landings among towering glaciers, icebergs and snow-covered mountains. Wildlife sightings may include gentoo, chinstrap and Adélie penguins, Weddell seals, leopard seals and whales.
As SH Minerva sails farther south, the voyage crosses the Antarctic Circle, placing guests among the select few travellers who have ventured into this remote region. The expedition then continues east into the seldom-visited reaches of Western Antarctica and the Ross Sea, where immense tabular icebergs, pristine sea ice and historic exploration sites create an unforgettable experience. Depending on conditions, guests may visit locations associated with the Heroic Age of Antarctic Exploration while witnessing some of the continent’s most untouched landscapes.
One of the voyage’s most unique features is its crossing of the Southern Ocean to the Balleny Islands, a remote volcanic archipelago rarely visited by expedition ships. Surrounded by biologically rich waters, these islands provide opportunities to observe humpback, fin and minke whales, crabeater, Weddell and leopard seals, along with Adélie and chinstrap penguin colonies in an environment that remains largely untouched by humans.
The final stage of the expedition explores New Zealand’s UNESCO-listed Subantarctic Islands, one of the world’s greatest wildlife sanctuaries. These isolated islands are renowned for their endemic birdlife, including royal albatrosses and petrels, as well as New Zealand sea lions and fur seals. After weeks of extraordinary exploration, the voyage concludes in Dunedin, bringing to an end one of the most comprehensive Antarctic expeditions available.
Throughout the journey, Swan Hellenic’s expert expedition team enriches the experience with lectures, workshops, citizen science initiatives and guided excursions covering wildlife, glaciology, geology, conservation and the remarkable history of Antarctic exploration. Between adventures, guests can enjoy SH Minerva’s elegant accommodations, gourmet dining, observation lounges and wellness facilities while surrounded by some of the planet’s most spectacular scenery.
Unsure if this Ultimate Antarctica Adventure from Ushuaia to Dunedin itinerary is right for you? Review our Antarctica destination overview for full details on seasonality, routes, ship selection, pricing, expedition inclusions and how North South Voyages can help make your Antarctica dream become reality.
Planning your Antarctica adventure? Don’t miss the chance to explore more of South America while you’re here. Extend your journey with one of our unforgettable pre- or post-cruise itineraries through Costa Rica, Guatemala, or the legendary Galapagos. Click through to North South Journeys for expertly curated extensions that perfectly complement your polar expedition — turning a once-in-a-lifetime trip into a truly epic journey.
