Our tip
You can finish off your cold weather shopping here, they have all the best stuff.
From Ushuaia to Punta Arenas
Antarctic Explorer: In Partnership with New Scientist Discovery Tours
From Ushuaia to Punta Arenas
Antarctic Explorer: In Partnership with New Scientist Discovery Tours
Voyage Itinerary
31 January to 1 February
Setting sail from Ushuaia
Ushuaia is sometimes described as 'the city at the end of the world', though its rugged beauty is far from apocalyptic. Perched on the ragged southern edge of Argentina, where the snow-capped Andes fall away into the churning sea, the city has a frontier town feel to it, and serves as the base for expeditions into the icy waters of Antarctica. There are also plenty of outdoor pursuits on offer here, including hiking, skiing and fishing, and the Tierra del Fuego National Park is home to spectacular scenery and wildlife including penguins, guanacos, sea lions and condors.
2 February to 3 February - At sea
4 February to 7 February
Antarctica: Antarctic Peninsula
Antarctica is the world’s last great wilderness, an alien landscape of snow-covered mountains, jagged icebergs and extraordinary wildlife. February is a great time to spot whales, with species including humpback, sperm and orca, and you still have a chance of seeing penguin chicks. Fur seals are also abundant at this time of year. Expedition trips will spend time exploring the Antarctic Peninsula, making several landings at various sites and cruising through scenic channels.
8 February
Antarctica: King George Island
The relative proximity of King George Island to South America, together with the fact that around 10% of the island is ice-free, means that there are several research stations clustered here, along with an airfield. It’s the biggest island in the South Shetlands archipelago, and is also home to the world’s most southerly Russian Orthodox church!
8 February to 9 February
Arriving in Punta Arenas
The weather-beaten city of Punta Arenas is a laid back and welcoming place, in spite of its inhospitable location on the shores of the Strait of Magellan. Nearby attractions include penguin colonies and the dramatic scenery of Torres del Paine National Park, while beyond the horizon lie the frozen wastes of Antarctica.
The ship
Douglas Mawson
- Capacity:
- 154 Guests
- Crew:
- 81 Staff
- Style:
- Immersive exploration in comfort with elegantly designedinteriors and the latest in sustainable technology.
The brand new expedition ship from AE Expeditions set sail in 2025 with the latest in cutting-edge nautical technology for immersive exploration in complete comfort.
What we love
The third ship to join AE Expeditions' fleet of revolutionary purpose-built expedition ships, Douglas Mawson features the newest X-BOW design and a whole host of enhancements, building on the success of Greg Mortimer and Sylvia Earle. Named after a legendary Australian explorer, the new ship's inaugural season immerses guests in the pristine landscapes of East Antarctica, marking AE Expeditions' return to this region for the first time in 15 years.
On board you can expect the largest choice of cabins in the fleet, including single berth cabins, plus beautiful open deck space for taking in the views, featuring a heated outdoor swimming pool, whirlpools and comfortable loungers, perfect for unwinding after a day's exploring.
inclusions
- All meals, snacks, tea and coffee
- Soft drinks throughout the day
- Beer and house wine with dinner
- Landings, Zodiac cruises and select excursions
- Onboard lecture programme
- 3-in-1 polar jacket on polar voyages
- WiFi
Tailor-make your trip
Ways to make it better
Where to stay in Ushuaia
Los Cauquenes Resort and Spa is your best option, if you have time to stay.
Tours from Ushuaia
What you choose to do on tour will need to supplement whatever cruise you are taking. So if you are heading to Antarctica, whilst here you will want to go to the Tierra del Fuego National Park.
How can we help?
Our frequently asked questions
From expedition tips to travel protection, here are some of our most-asked questions.
visit our faqs
Can you help with pre and post-cruise arrangements?
Absolutely. Expedition cruises often start and end in remote destinations, and we're able to arrange everything from flights and transfers to hotels and tours. If you're keen to make the most of your time away with bespoke arrangements, we can help with all your travel needs to make sure your trip is exceptional. What's more, we are members of ABTA and we offer full ATOL protection, not to mention a 24-hour emergency contact, to give you complete peace of mind.
Will I save by booking with Mundy Adventures?
You'll save money and time by booking with us rather than directly with the cruise line, as well as enjoying more flexibility in your travel arrangements. We have access to preferential rates and exclusive offers, and we offer expert advice on how to get the best value.
How much time is spent ashore?
Itineraries are planned to deliver an unforgettable experience of the destination, so days are filled with landings ashore via the ship's fleet of Zodiacs (sturdy rubber boats) or exploration along the coastline. It will vary depending on itinerary and operators, so it's best to contact us to discuss but rest assured an expedition cruise is focused on the time you spend off the ship.
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Why Mundy?
Who we are
Mundy Adventures is the intrepid little brother of Mundy Cruising Ltd., the UK's very first cruise specialist, and one of the leading companies in its field.
We specialise in travel by ship and have been doing so for over 50 years. By providing expert, personal service, insightful ideas and fascinating add-ons we aim to make your adventure holiday truly unique and special.
We're happy to do all of that over the phone. But if you prefer to chat face to face, why not visit us at our comfortable offices on London's High Holborn - we'd be delighted to see you.
