Emperor Penguin Expeditions · 12 days
A specialist, helicopter-supported attempt to reach an emperor penguin colony in the Weddell Sea.
12 days
MV Katabatic
Late October – November 2026
From $22,000
Very few voyages each year attempt this. Katabatic heads into the Weddell Sea in late October, aiming for the emperor penguin colony near Snow Hill Island. If ice and weather allow, helicopters carry guests over the sea ice for the final approach on foot.
Season
Late October – November 2026
Late October – November 2026
Nothing about this trip is guaranteed — that is what makes it an expedition. We'll share candid context on past conditions before you commit.
From $22,000 per person.
Day by day
Day 1Ushuaia embarkation
Board and sail for the Drake Passage.
Days 2–3Drake Passage
Helicopter safety briefings and emperor penguin lectures.
Days 4–9Weddell Sea & Snow Hill Island
Navigating the ice towards the colony, with helicopter operations as conditions allow.
Days 10–11Drake Passage
Northbound crossing.
Day 12Ushuaia disembarkation
Disembark after breakfast.
Itineraries are a guide: weather and ice decide the day. Placeholder — verify durations, prices and inclusions with partner operators before launch.
Ship & cabins
- MV Katabatic
- 196 guests
- Balcony — Veranda suite
- Suite — Signature suite
Included
- Expedition leaders & naturalist guides
- Daily zodiac landings and cruises (weather permitting)
- All meals on board
- Polar parka to keep (verify)
- Waterproof boots on loan (verify)
- Lectures and briefings by the expedition team
- Helicopter operations, weather permitting (verify)
Not included
- Flights to the embarkation port
- Pre/post hotel nights
- Personal gear
- Mandatory travel, medical and evacuation insurance
- Gratuities for crew and expedition staff
- Optional activities such as kayaking or camping
Good to know
- Reaching the colony depends entirely on ice and weather.
- Early-season temperatures are noticeably colder (verify).
- Departures are very limited and book out well ahead.
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