Antarctica • 28 Day • Maximum 7 Guests • Exclusive Expedition

Antarctica Yacht Expedition

28 Day Small Group Exclusive Expedition

An immersive expedition to one of the last true wildernesses on Earth.

Antarctica is the most remote destination on Earth, where towering glaciers, vast icebergs and abundant wildlife combine to create one of the planet's last great wildernesses. Each austral summer, the Antarctic Peninsula comes alive as humpback whales feed on dense swarms of krill, penguins gather in bustling colonies, leopard seals patrol the shoreline, and orcas hunt along the edge of the pack ice.

Join internationally award-winning wildlife photographer Scott Portelli aboard a private expedition yacht as we explore this remarkable frozen landscape. Travelling by yacht provides unparalleled flexibility, allowing us to follow wildlife activity, reach remote landing sites and spend more time immersed in Antarctica's spectacular natural environment.

Throughout the expedition, you'll have opportunities to photograph whales, penguins, seals and seabirds, cruise amongst towering icebergs, explore ashore by Zodiac and, where conditions allow, snorkel or dive beneath the icy waters to experience Antarctica from an entirely different perspective.

Designed for photographers, wildlife enthusiasts and adventurous travellers, this is a genuine expedition experience where wildlife and weather shape each day's adventure. With expert guidance, small group travel and incredible photographic opportunities, you'll experience Antarctica in a way few people ever do.

This is more than just a trip to Antarctica. It is an opportunity to experience one of the world's last great wildernesses, witness incredible wildlife up close, and return home with memories and photographs that will stay with you for a lifetime.

Expedition Details

 

Expedition Highlights

  • Cruise through the spectacular Antarctic Peninsula aboard a private expedition yacht, exploring one of the world's last true wildernesses.

  • Photograph humpback whales, orcas, leopard seals, gentoo, chinstrap and Adélie penguins in their natural environment.

  • Explore dramatic glaciers, towering icebergs, snow-covered mountains and pristine polar landscapes by Zodiac and on foot.

  • Experience unforgettable wildlife encounters, with opportunities to observe whale feeding behaviour, penguin colonies and seals at close range.

  • Snorkel or dive in the icy waters of Antarctica (conditions permitting) for a unique perspective of the Southern Ocean.

  • Receive personalised photography guidance from internationally award-winning wildlife photographer Scott Portelli throughout the expedition.

  • Travel as part of a small expedition group, allowing greater flexibility, exclusive landing opportunities and more time with wildlife.

  • Experience Antarctica as few people ever do, where every day is shaped by the weather, wildlife and spirit of exploration.

Two chinstrap penguins touching beaks in Antarctica.

What’s Included

  • Comprehensive pre-departure information and expedition preparation

  • Expert leadership from Scott Portelli and an experienced expedition team

  • All meals and beverages onboard throughout the voyage

  • Accommodation aboard the expedition yacht

  • Daily Zodiac cruises and guided shore landings

  • All guided wildlife and photography excursions

  • Opportunities to explore Antarctica's spectacular landscapes, glaciers and wildlife

  • Entry fees to historic Antarctic landing sites

  • Port taxes and government charges

  • Airport transfers between Puerto Williams and the expedition yacht

What’s Not Included

  • International or domestic flights to and from Puerto Williams, Chile

  • Airport taxes and airline-imposed fees

  • Passport, visa and vaccination costs

  • Comprehensive travel insurance and emergency evacuation cover (mandatory)

  • Accommodation and meals before or after the expedition

  • Personal expenses, including bar purchases, laundry and gratuities (where applicable)

  • Personal clothing and photography equipment

  • Costs associated with weather or operational delays outside the published itinerary

The Vessel

Built for high-latitude exploration, the yacht is purpose-designed for expedition travel in remote and challenging environments. Its reinforced aluminium hull is engineered to navigate through brash ice, while the robust schooner rig provides stability, safety and redundancy in demanding conditions.

Accommodating up to 12 guests, the vessel combines expedition capability with comfort, featuring heated living spaces, durable bamboo interiors and well-appointed shared areas. Twin engines, onboard workshop facilities, expedition RIBs and extensive navigation and communication systems ensure the yacht is equipped for extended voyages far from conventional support.

Designed for adventure, safety and self-sufficiency, this vessel provides a unique platform for exploring some of the most remote regions on Earth

Expedition Yacht in Antarctica

Life Onboard

Life aboard a sailing yacht in the Sub-Antarctic is not for everyone. This is a genuine expedition experience that requires a sense of adventure, flexibility, patience and teamwork.

Conditions can be challenging, with limited space, shared facilities, occasional rough seas and simple living. Showers may be infrequent, sleeping quarters compact and daily routines shaped by weather, wildlife opportunities and life at sea.

However, for those willing to embrace the experience, the rewards are extraordinary. The camaraderie built among a small group of like-minded adventurers, combined with access to one of the world's most remote and untouched regions, creates memories and experiences that last a lifetime.

Interior of a boat with wood paneling, a dining table with a basket of fruit, a sofa with pillows, and a kitchen area with a sink, stove, and cabinets.

Frequently Asked Questions

Designed by Scott Portelli

Scott Portelli preparing for underwater photography among Antarctic icebergs with Marelux underwater housing.

Every expedition reflects more than three decades of experience exploring and photographing some of the world's most remote environments.

Internationally recognised wildlife photographer, filmmaker and expedition specialist Scott Portelli has spent more than a decade working throughout Antarctica and the Sub-Antarctic, developing an intimate understanding of the region's wildlife, landscapes and seasonal conditions.

His experience has shaped every aspect of this journey, from the itinerary and timing to the wildlife encounters and photographic opportunities, creating an experience that goes beyond simply visiting these extraordinary places.

Whether Scott is leading the expedition himself or working alongside a trusted expedition team, guests can expect the same commitment to immersive wildlife experiences, responsible travel and exceptional photographic opportunities that define the Scott Portelli brand.

Upcoming Expeditions