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Swan Hellenic - Ice Landing
Antarctica
Peninsula Wildlife

South America, Antarctica, New Zealand

Ultimate Antarctica Adventure - Buenos Aires to Dunedin

Sail from Ushuaia to Dunedin on an extraordinary expedition across Antarctica, venturing far beyond the traditional Antarctic Peninsula to some of the most remote regions of the White Continent, including the Ross Sea and Balleny Islands.

Cross the Antarctic Circle, navigate through seas dotted with immense icebergs and encounter remarkable wildlife, from vast penguin colonies and seals to whales in their natural habitat. Along the way, explore rarely visited islands and polar landscapes that few travellers ever have the opportunity to experience.

Aboard Swan Hellenic's boutique ice-class expedition ship, enjoy elegant surroundings, attentive service and enriching insights from an expert expedition team. Onboard lectures, wildlife briefings and photography guidance add depth to this once-in-a-lifetime Antarctic adventure.

Departs

  • 2 Feb 27 | Buenos Aires pre-cruise hotel stay | 03Feb27 Flight Buenos Aires-Ushuaia | 03Feb27 Cruise from Ushuaia

Polar Expedition package includes

  • Transfer Buenos Aires Airport to hotel
  • 1 night Buenos Aires pre-cruise hotel in a 5-star hotel, including breakfast
  • Transfer Buenos Aires Hotel to Airport
  • Charter flight Buenos Aires to Ushuaia
  • Transfer Ushuaia Airport to Port
  • 32 night Polar Expedition cruise onboard SH Minerva from Ushuaia to Dunedin

Swan Hellenic Onboard Inclusions

  • All meals onboard
  • 24-hour room service
  • Complimentary hot & cold beverages, beer, wine & spirits any time throughout your cruise
  • Entry level WI-F
  • Onboard gratuities and port taxes
  • One selected shore excursion per port of call
  • All expedition landings
  • Lecture programs by expedition team and guest speakers
  • In polar regions: branded parka, yours to keep and use of rubber boots
  • Waterproof backpack and refillable water bottle, yours to keep
  • Gym, sauna, pool
  • 24/7 self service laundry
  • Memory Package

Expedition Cruise Itinerary

NOTE: This itinerary provides general information about each destination. Also, please be aware that some of the venues and highlights mentioned may not be open or accessible on the day visited.

Ushuaia is the gateway to the White Continent. Nestled in the foothills of the snow-capped Martial Range in Argentina's Patagonia region, Ushuaia’s colourful streets and mismatched buildings cascade from the imposing mountains before coming to an abrupt halt at the shores of the Beagle Channel. Often described as 'the End of the World', the city carries the reputation well - the moody weather and dramatic surroundings certainly help

Spend your day at sea enjoying the facilities available onboard. Head to the sauna, get in a workout in the state-of-the-art gym or relax in the hot tub while taking in incredible views along the way. If you prefer to learn a little more about your surroundings, listen to an informative talk or have a chat with one of our knowledgeable experts

Your first true taste of Antarctica comes fast in the South Shetlands, where jagged ridgelines, penguin shores, and active geology sit within a single horizon. At Discovery Bay on Greenwich Island, the scene is classic High Latitude: a sheltered inlet backed by snow and rock, with the quiet presence of research outposts and the sense that you’ve crossed into the polar world.

Later, Deception Island delivers a rare spectacle: an active volcanic caldera you can sail into, with black-sand beaches and steam-warmed ground in places. A call at Fort Point gives you a front-row look at the island’s stark coastal drama, while Whalers Bay brings the human story into focus with haunting remnants of the whaling era set against an otherworldly volcanic amphitheatre
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Among captivating glaciers, majestic icebergs and snowy islands, the Antarctic Peninsula is where most visitors to the White Continent live their Antarctica dream. It's the most accessible part, with scientific bases and incredible scenery, like the photogenic Lemaire Channel. Shore excursions might include Mikkelsen Harbour, where among gentoo penguins, snowy sheathbills and skuas, Antarctic Weddell seals haul out.

Spend your day at sea enjoying the facilities available onboard. Head to the sauna, get in a workout in the state-of-the-art gym or relax in the hot tub while taking in incredible views along the way. If you prefer to learn a little more about your surroundings, listen to an informative talk or have a chat with one of our knowledgeable experts

The magnitude of translucent bergs silently floating on crystal-clear seas is often broken up by the tail of a fluking whale and leopard seals resting on an ice floe. Rarely visited by ships, the ice-covered volcanic Peter I island in Bellingshausen Sea is claimed by Norway and is home to elephant seals, cape pigeons and southern fulmars. Two of the largest islands in the Antarctic - Alexander and Thurston Islands - lie past Peter I Island.

Spend your day at sea enjoying the facilities available onboard. Head to the sauna, get in a workout in the state-of-the-art gym or relax in the hot tub while taking in incredible views along the way. If you prefer to learn a little more about your surroundings, listen to an informative talk or have a chat with one of our knowledgeable experts

In one of the most remote areas of Antarctica, volcanic Shepard Island is an 11-mile stretch of wilderness near Grant Island off Marie Byrd Land’s unclaimed coast. It is ice-capped except along its northern, seaward side, where it is almost entirely embedded in the Getz Ice Shelf. The exposed northern shores provide sanctuary for chinstrap penguins and skuas in this remote polar refuge.

Spend your day at sea enjoying the facilities available onboard. Head to the sauna, get in a workout in the state-of-the-art gym or relax in the hot tub while taking in incredible views along the way. If you prefer to learn a little more about your surroundings, listen to an informative talk or have a chat with one of our knowledgeable experts

The Bay of Whales was Antarctica’s key natural harbor, an ice-bound inlet by the Ross Ice Shelf near Roosevelt Island and Cape Colbeck. As the southernmost navigable waters, it was the closest ship approach to the South Pole. The original bay vanished in 1987 when iceberg B-9 calved, but new embayments may form. It supported whaling and was Amundsen’s base for his 1911 South Pole triumph, 60 miles ahead of Scott

Experience time travel first-hand as you cross the international date line. This imaginary line in the Pacific Ocean joins the South Pole to the North Pole and roughly follows 180 degrees longitude with a deviation east to the 150-degree meridian to include the Kiribati and Line Islands. Sailors celebrate the passing with the Ceremony of the Domain of the Golden Dragon. On our transpacific journey, you will lose a day as you cross the line.

One of the last untouched salt-water wilderness regions, the Ross Sea region is home to an abundance of wildlife - southern right whales, orca, emperor penguins, parakeets and elephant seals, to name a few. Antarctica’s largest Adelie penguin colony is located on the shores of the Ross Sea. This faraway place also exudes polar history - many of the expedition huts of past explorers are still perfectly preserved.

The Balleny Islands, 2,000 km south of New Zealand near Antarctica, remain mostly untouched since their discovery in 1839. The Ross Sea surrounding them is a biologically rich area in the Southern Ocean, still under research. These dramatic coastal landscapes are home to humpback, fin and minke whales, along with crabeater, Weddell, elephant and leopard seals. Some islands host significant Adélie and chinstrap penguin colonies

Spend your day at sea enjoying the facilities available onboard. Head to the sauna, get in a workout in the state-of-the-art gym or relax in the hot tub while taking in incredible views along the way. If you prefer to learn a little more about your surroundings, listen to an informative talk or have a chat with one of our knowledgeable experts

Over these days at sea, you cruise through one of the planet’s great wildlife sanctuaries: New Zealand’s Sub-Antarctic Islands, protected for their exceptional ecosystems and breeding colonies. These remote islands are famed for their seabirds, including albatrosses and petrels, and for shorelines where you may spot sea lions and seals in wild, wind-sculpted settings that feel truly at the edge of the world.

Expect the rhythm of expedition cruising: long horizons from deck, fresh expert commentary as conditions shift, and the quiet excitement of scanning for life in the sky and on the water as you move between these far-southern outposts

Known as the Edinburgh of New Zealand, Dunedin, on the South Island, is set in a pretty bay that serves as a port. Surrounded by bush-covered hills, the town is one of the best-preserved Victorian and Edwardian cities in the Southern Hemisphere. It’s proud of its Celtic connections with New Zealand’s only castles. Elaborate civic buildings, funky alleyways filled with street art, and picturesque parks add to the appeal

Cabin Types

Oceanview Stateroom

Oceanview Staterooms measure 20m2 (215ft2) and can accommodate two guests. They feature two single beds or a double bed, bedroom with living room area, a flame-effect fireplace and a luxurious bathroom.

Buenos Aires, Argentina

Polar Expedition package

from $55,375 per person share twin

  • Bonus USD$300 Onboard Credit per person*
  • Includes FREE upgrade to Gold WiFi package*
  • Includes savings of $63,500 per couple
  • Travel 02 Feb - 08 Mar 27

Balcony Stateroom

Balcony Staterooms measure 25m2 (269ft2) – including a 5m2 (54ft2) private balcony – and can accommodate two or three guests. They feature two single beds or a double bed, bedroom with living room area, a flame-effect fireplace and a luxurious bathroom.

Buenos Aires, Argentina

Polar Expedition package

from $55,375 per person share twin

  • Includes Free Upgrade from Oceanview to Balcony stateroom*
  • Bonus USD$300 Onboard Credit per person*
  • Includes FREE upgrade to Gold WiFi package*
  • Includes savings of $63,500 per couple
  • Travel 02 Feb - 08 Mar 27

Oceanview Stateroom - SOLO OCCUPANCY

Oceanview Staterooms measure 20m2 (215ft2) and can accommodate two guests. They feature two single beds or a double bed, bedroom with living room area, a flame-effect fireplace and a luxurious bathroom.

Buenos Aires, Argentina

Polar Expedition package

from $83,079 solo occupancy

  • Bonus USD$300 Onboard Credit*
  • Includes FREE upgrade to Gold WiFi package*
  • Travel 02 Feb - 08 Mar 27

Terms and Conditions

*Offer valid on new bookings made before 6th November 2026. Fares shown are per person, based on double occupancy. Book an OM4 category stateroom and receive a Balcony stateroom. This offer applies to all 2027 Asia Pacific voyages. Fares listed may differ from those shown on our website. Wi-Fi upgrade is valid for one device per guest, up to two devices per stateroom. Additional charges apply to multiple devices. Wi-Fi offer has no cash value, is non-transferable, and cannot be substituted. The offer is subject to change, capacity controlled, and can be withdrawn at any time at Swan Hellenic’s sole discretion. All components are subject to availability at the time of booking. The offer is combinable with past guest, onboard bookings and/or back-to-back savings. Promotional rates are valid for group bookings on request.

All prices are converted from Australian Dollars and are subject to currency fluctuations at the time of booking.

Save amounts reflect a discount from the Swan Hellenic best price fare at time of publication.

All cruise packages are based on Twin share, inside cabin and costs are per person. Availability is current as at 21 Aug 26 and deals are available until date shown or until sold out. Space is strictly limited and is subject to availability at time of booking. Note some categories of Oceanview or Balcony may have obstructed views. On board credit where shown is per cabin & must be spent on board and is not refundable in cash. All passengers are bound by the individual cruise lines terms & conditions, please ask your consultant for a full copy. Current Deals must be paid in full at time of booking or deposit dates as shown. All passengers must have a valid passport with more than 6 months validity at the end of their holiday. Travel insurance should be taken out at time of booking to cover in the event of any unforeseen cancellation. Included airfares are based on special nonrefundable economy fares, ground transfers are not included unless specified, any hotels included are on a room only basis unless specified. Hotels in certain destinations in Europe, USA and Asia may require local tourist taxes or resort fees payable at check in, we aim to give an indication of these where possible, but unfortunately you cannot prepay this aspect of the hotel rate and must settle at check in. Saving amounts reflect a discount from the published best price fare at time of publication. Where Onboard Gratuities are not included, we aim to give an approximate value but these are subject to change and are indicative only.  ESTA Visas are required for itineraries visiting the UK, USA, Canada, India, China, Vietnam, Bali, Schengen states & Sri Lanka. Visa costs are not included. If travelling on a non-NZ passport other visas + NZ re-entry permits may also be required, please check with the applicable embassy. Passport validity, Visas, Vaccinations and health requirements are the responsibility of the passengers.

 

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I choose which type of cruise is right for me
There are three main types of cruising

Ocean Cruises
There is a wide range of itineraries, cruise lines and cruise ships to choose from for those seeking an ocean experience, or an exciting adventure across many countries. Ocean cruising is an amazing holiday where everything you could possibly need is within easy reach.

River Cruises
A leisurely cruise along the world’s waterways is a relaxing, and luxurious, way to travel. Whether you’re navigating across Europe or cruising Southeast Asia’s Mekong River, each new day on a river cruise brings a new experience.  

Luxury Cruises
Luxury beyond belief. Soak up Michelin-star fine dining restaurants, butler service, and luxurious suites. Luxury cruising appeals to those travellers demanding an unparalleled, all-inclusive travel experience away from the hustle and bustle of the large crowds

What types of cruises are there?
There are cruises tailored to every type of traveller ie; adults only, couples, families, retirees, singles, large groups etc.  Depending on the cruise line will depend on the type of cruise available and what is best suited to the experience you want. 

Most offer a full range of activities and facilities to participate in as a family. Kids clubs are also offered in some ships and are focused on keeping children entertained.  Be prepared, some are more “kid-friendly” than others -always check with your HOT travel consultant 

Many cruise lines have adults only areas, and some are even fully adults only cruise ships.  The larger the ship, the more space you will have. If you are looking for something a little smaller and more intimate, your cruising specialist will help you find that.

Can I go on a cruise if I’m travelling alone?
Yes - taking a cruise is a great way to relax and see the world at your own pace. A cruise is a fun and safe environment to meet other people, or just soak up the experience solo. Ask your cruise consultant about what’s best for solo travel and find out about the special add on rates for single occupancy of double staterooms.

Should I check in before I go
YES - we highly recommend checking in online ahead of time. While the process differs between cruise lines, you will usually need to create an account and enter your personal and booking details. It’s a must to do this in advance as you will be provided with a lot of important information to ensure you are fully prepared. This takes the stress out of the boarding process.

You may be offered a choice of a few different boarding times, although some cruise lines do pre-allocate this for you.  Your check in process will also outline when your bags are likely to be available once you are on board. This is important as it may not be immediately so you might want to reconsider what you take as carry-on so you have some essentials on hand 

What happens when I embark
Like all travel, ensure you arrive at your embarkation port on time (preferably a little earlier) for your allocated boarding time. Make sure you have your boarding passes printed, your luggage tags securely attached to your bags and your passport on hand ready to go.  

Look out for your designated terminal, drop off your bags, then make your way through the security process. This is very similar to an airport, with metal detectors and x-rays for smaller carry-on bags.  

Once through security, you will approach the check-in counter, where you will have your photo taken and receive your onboard card, which will serve as your cabin key, onboard payment method and onboard ID. Your luggage will be delivered to your cabin during embarkation.

Is cruising expensive?
Like all travel, the cost is dependent on a lot of factors – things like the length of cruise, destination(s), the type of cruise line or room type.  But because there is so much variety, there will be a cruise to suit everyone's budget.  It can work out to be great value for money compared to a regular fly/stay holiday.

Will I get seasickness?
Most modern cruise ships have stabilizers in place to ensure passenger comfort. Plus, cruise ships will alter their routes in advance to avoid any adverse weather patterns and storms etc.

But if you are prone to motion sickness, you could find yourself getting seasick on your cruise holiday. You could try natural remedies or over-the-counter prescribed medicines to counter motion sickness. 

Do I need a passport or visa to cruise
You will require a passport to cruise internationally. Some close to home domestic sailings will only require a valid driver’s license. It is always recommended to have a valid passport whilst cruising and is your responsibility to ensure you have the applicable photo identification. Some countries do require you to obtain a visa in advance if you wish to disembark the ship in port. You will need to check the visa requirements for the countries visited on your cruise itinerary. Countries such as China, Russia, India, Canada and the USA require all New Zealand passport holders to obtain a visa. Always check with your HOT travel consultant and they will direct you to the right information.

Will I save money if I book at the last minute or early?
We recommend that if you are looking for a great deal book your cruise early. Some cruise lines offer great incentives for the early booking travellers. Thery could be things like complimentary room category upgrades, bonuses and discounted prices. Some even do airline flight credits! But these deals are normally for a limited time and will not last.   Join our HOT cruise newsletter / email database, and we will let you know when there are offers or special deals available.

Cruise pricing, like most things, reflects supply and demand. The more demand there is for a particular cruise the higher the price will be. Demand could be determined by factors such as the destination, seasons & duration of the cruise holiday. 

Like anything, waiting till the last minute does involve risk. If you wait, your cruise may have sold out.  Then there is also the possibility of getting the cruise but in a room category that you don’t want. Our expert advice is - book early!

 

Is there a dress code on board
It will depend on what cruise line you are sailing with. As a rule, casual dress is accepted during the day, with smart casual or formal attire being required at night. Most cruise lines do not accept caps, jandals, bare feet, swimwear or sleepwear in formal dining venues.  

Some cruise lines enforce a stricter dress code, with men required to wear jackets and women cocktail attire at dinner. If you do not comply with your cruise line’s dress code, you may be asked to leave a particular venue. Make sure you check with your HOT travel consultant   - you don’t want to get caught out

Do cruise ships cater for passengers with accessibility requirement?
Yes, most cruise lines have accessibility assistance in place for passengers with disabilities. Cruise ships typically offer a range of wheelchair-accessible cabins, however, the number of these may be limited. You must advise at time of booking – make sure you speak to your HOT travel consultant and outline any requirements for you or your travelling companions

Some ocean ships can be large, which at times can be difficult for passengers with mobility problems to navigate. To make things easier, on some cruise ships you can rent a scooter or wheelchair for the duration of your cruise. Always check in advance with your HOT travel consultant

Can I smoke onboard a cruise ship?
All cabins and public areas onboard cruise ships are strictly non-smoking / vaping. You can, smoke/ vape in the ship’s designated smoking zones only

If in doubt, ask the staff onboard your ship. 

Are my valuables safe on board?
If you bring valuables with you, they are best to be kept in your in-room safe.  We also recommend you keep your passport, and any important documents locked in the your safe also.


Are gratuities or tips included?
This depends on the cruise. Your cruise consultant will outline this as part of the booking process.  Some holidays include gratuities in the total price, whilst others might require you to pay once you are onboard.

How much luggage can I bring on the cruise?
Cruise lines are not generally concerned about how much luggage you bring onboard, so there are largely no luggage restrictions on cruise ships. But be aware, some staterooms have limited closet space!  But remember, if you are travelling by air etc to your departure port, all airlines have weight and ‘number of bag’ restrictions.

Don’t get caught out – make sure you check the details carefully and be aware of any restrictions.  Airlines do charge for oversize or excess baggage. Be prepared, check the restrictions with your travel consultant or the airline carrier directly before you book your flights.


Should I book shore excursions or do my own sightseeing?
Talk to your HOT travel consultant, it depends on what you want to do.  You have options – you can do the shore activities arranged directly by the ship, as the quality and service offered is guaranteed.  A bonus, if the tour is delayed the ship will wait for you before it sets sail again.

You can, however, book shore excursions, whilst on board, or in advance if you want a more structured adventure.  Doing your own local sightseeing can be exciting, however you’ll have to pay close attention to time as the ship will not wait for you if you are running late.


What currency is used onboard?
This varies depending on cruise line and destination.  You can almost guarantee that the currency on most cruise lines will not be in NZD. Ships based in Australia will usually have AUD onboard. Ships that cruise in a variety of destinations will have a currency to reflect their company's ownership, which could be currencies such as USD or Euro. Make sure you ask your HOT travel consultant in advance, so you are prepared.


What if I require a special diet?
If you have special dietary requirements, you should advise your HOT travel consultant at time of booking.  If you do have special requirements, make sure you arrange your meals in advance. However, if you do forget, you can arrange it onboard.


What room type should I book?
A lot of first-time cruisers choose an inside room (internal without a window) mainly due to the cost.  However, it is normally only a small difference per day to upgrade to an oceanview room (with a view).

Or investigate an upgrade to a balcony/veranda room which offers floor to ceiling windows that open to allow the fresh ocean air in. Check with your HOT travel consultant

Can I take visitors on board?
Think of a cruise ship like an airplane.  No you can’t. Due to immigration and security reasons only registered guests are permitted onboard at all times.


Is there babysitting on board?
Babysitting is available at extra cost on some ships. Many cruise lines will offer popular kids club facilities onboard, and some cater better than others.  But if you are on a cruise that is targeted at families will be spoilt for choice for ways to entertain the whole family


Is there WiFI and mobile reception?
Yes you can. Most ships offer Wi-Fi throughout the ship, whilst some only offer in designated areas. Most cruise ships have internet cafes on board. Charges do apply for the use of broadband & because it is based on satellite 
Phone Reception is generally only available in ports. Some cruise lines have agreements with land-based phone service companies. If you chose to use this service, you will be paying international roaming rates for these calls.  Find out before you go – your HOT travel consultant can help

How do I pay for on board expenses?
Just like many hotels, an onboard account will be set up for you prior to departure. This means all your onboard purchases can be charged to this account.  Payment will be made at the end of the cruise.

Are there laundry services on board?
Laundry and cleaning services are always available. It’s either self-service laundry facilities or a professional laundry service.  You will find washing machines, dryers, ironing boards, irons and detergent on board. Self-service washing machines & dryers generally tend to be coin operated.

Can I bring alcohol onboard the ship?
You are not allowed to bring alcohol onboard the ships. Duty free and personal alcohol purchased onshore will be collected upon your check in and can be collected on the last day of your cruise. Any Duty- and Tax-Free alcohol purchased on the ship will be held for safekeeping and can be collected on the last day of the cruise.

Not to worry - cruise lines largely offer drink packages so you can purchase drinks onboard. If not, your drinks can be charged to your cruise card.

Can I place a deposit for a cruise booking?
At time of booking you can choose to pay for the cruise in full or pay the minimum per person deposit amount.

When do I need to pay for my cruise in full?
If you have chosen to pay a deposit only, your full payment deadline will be determined by the cruise you book, so please check your Invoice for the final payment due date.

What is included in the price of a cruise?
Cruise holidays are one of the most value for money holidays you could go on. Your transportation, accommodation and main meals are included whilst onboard. Selected activities and entertainment are also included in the price.

There are some additional activities that you may have to pay separately for, like special restaurants & shows.  Ask your HOT travel consultant for a full list of inclusions and added extras you can pay for separately

Do I need travel insurance?
YES – we absolutely recommend that you take out comprehensive travel insurance at the time you book your cruise. Your HOT travel consultant can organise a quick and simple quote for you. 


Can I book my complete holiday including a cruise?
Your local HOT travel consultant will be able to curate you the perfect holiday making sure that it all works like clockwork.  We can organise your flights, transfers, an amazing cruise, then accommodation and add in extras like a tour, car hire or sightseeing etc. This is where using a HOT travel consultant is critical – it’s complex and our consultants are expert and making it the best holiday ever. 

How can I cancel or make changes my cruise booking?
We know ‘life’ happens.  To cancel your booking, get in contact with your HOT travel consultant as soon as you can. Please note that cancellation fees will apply. Similarly, if you need to make any changes or amendments, we can help, but again, be prepared, change / amendment fees will apply.  Some of your booking may be non-refundable.

When is my final payment due?
Your final payment will be due approximately four to five months before departure. You can find all payment amounts and due dates on your Booking Advice.

When will I receive my travel documents?
Approximately one to two weeks before your departure date. These documents will be sent directly to your email. If in doubt, ask your HOT travel consultant. You would have already received your online passenger information to complete well in advance.

Can I hold a cruise booking?
Pricing for cruises is dynamic and is subject to change. Talk to one of our HOT travel consultants and they can talk you through how it can / does work.

How do I book a cruise for more than 4 people, or book multiple staterooms?
Contact a HOT consultant if you are travelling with more than 4 people, you may need two or more rooms – there are also limitations around the age of children being in rooms by themselves etc –ie; children may not be booked in a room on their own. Children must be accompanied by an adult (over the age of 21) in a room.

What if I am cruising with children?
There are various restrictions imposed by cruise liners around ages of children travelling.  If you are travelling with a child under the age of 12 months, make sure you let your HOT travel consultant know. There are also some restrictions around travelling if you are pregnant and will depend on what stage you are at, again, contact your travel consultant to find out more  as these can vary by cruise liner