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From Ushuaia to Ushuaia

In Shackleton's Footsteps

Dates:
6 Nov - 29 Nov 2026
Duration:
23 Nights
Journey type:
Cruise only (please call for flight options)
No. of ports:
5
Ship:
Douglas Mawson
Cruise Line:
AE Expeditions
Fares:

From £20,162 pp

Elephant Island, Antarctica

From Ushuaia to Ushuaia

In Shackleton's Footsteps

Dates:
6 Nov - 29 Nov 2026
Duration:
23 Nights
Journey type:
Cruise only (please call for flight options)
No. of ports:
5
Ship:
Douglas Mawson
Cruise Line:
AE Expeditions
Fares:

From £20,162 pp

Voyage Itinerary

8 November to 9 November

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.

Aerial view of Ushuaia, Argentina
Zodiac boat off Antarctica

Our tip

You can finish off your cold weather shopping here, they have all the best stuff.

10 November to 11 November - At sea

12 November to 14 November

Antarctica: Antarctic Peninsula

Antarctica is the world’s last great wilderness, an alien landscape of snow-covered mountains, jagged icebergs and extraordinary wildlife. Visiting at the beginning of the cruise season in October or November means bigger icebergs and pristine snowy landscapes, along with the chance to see breeding elephant seals. There may still be sea ice around the Antarctic Peninsula, and temperatures are cold. Expedition trips will spend time exploring the peninsula, making several landings at various sites and cruising through scenic channels.
Mountains in Antarctica

15 November - At sea

16 November

Antarctica: Elephant Island

Named after the elephant seals that live along the coast, Elephant Island is synonymous with the early days of Antarctic exploration. It was here that Ernest Shackleton and his men were stranded for four months, and a monument to their bravery now stands on the island, often surrounded by Gentoo penguins.
Elephant Island, Antarctica

17 November to 18 November - At sea

19 November to 23 November

South Georgia & South Sandwich Islands: South Georgia

Remote and virtually uninhabited, the island of South Georgia is a beautiful and fascinating place. The landscape of jagged, snowy peaks and dramatic fjords is home to an abundance of penguins and seals, as well as ghostly abandoned whaling stations and the grave of Sir Ernest Shackleton.
Penguins on South Georgia

24 November to 26 November - At sea

27 November

Arriving in Ushuaia

Perched on the ragged southern edge of Argentina, where the snow-capped Andes fall away into the churning sea, Ushuaia has a frontier town feel to it, and serves as the base for expeditions into the icy waters of Antarctica.
Aerial view of Ushuaia, Argentina
Ushuaia waterfront

Don't miss

What can we say? You can’t miss anything in the town, it’s so small!

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.

Learn more about Douglas Mawson
Douglas Mawson at sea

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
    • Los Cauquenes Resort & Spa, Ushuaia

      Where to stay in Ushuaia

      Los Cauquenes Resort and Spa is your best option, if you have time to stay.

    • Tierra del Fuego National Park

      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.

    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.

    More about Mundy

    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.