Antarctica Aurora Australis – The Southern Lights

Antarctica Aurora Australis – The Southern Lights
Antarctica Aurora Australis – The Southern Lights
Aboard: MV Ortelius
Spring 2025 presents a rare chance to experience the wonders of the Aurora Australis, or Southern Lights, in all their glory. This is your chance to witness this incredible phenomenon from one of the world's most remote and enchanting wildernesses. With the sun’s 11-year solar cycle peaking, this is an ideal time to see these stunning lights in one of the only places in the world that they are visible!
Dr. Tyler Nordgren, an expert in astronomy, will guide our stargazing sessions on deck, sharing insights into the southern sky and the auroras. Dr. Julie Rathbun, a senior scientist with NASA's Europa Clipper mission, will also lead discussions on how Antarctica helps us explore distant moons like Europa.
This exceptional expedition ventures into the rarely explored Bellingshausen Sea, Marguerite Bay, and Alexander Island - regions first charted by Adrien De Gerlache and Jean-Baptiste Charcot during their historic Antarctic expeditions. Departing from Ushuaia, we journey beyond the Antarctic Circle, immersing ourselves in untouched landscapes where few have set foot. Along the way, we’ll explore Antarctic ice shelves, remote islands, and encounter a wealth of wildlife, including humpback and minke whales, leopard seals, penguins, and a variety of seabirds. The expedition offers an unparalleled opportunity to witness the unspoiled wilderness of one of the most remote regions on Earth, combining adventure, science, and the awe of witnessing the Southern Hemisphere's celestial wonders.
Please note: although chances of seeing the Aurora Australis are high, sightings can never be guaranteed.
Highlights
- High chances of experiencing the stunning Aurora Australis (Southern Lights) during its peak solar cycle
- Journey below the Antarctic Circle, venturing to rarely explored regions and islands, and awe-inspiring ice shelves
- Spot a variety of Antarctic wildlife, including humpback and minke whales, leopard seals, Adélie and gentoo penguins, and numerous seabirds
- Explore fascinating historic sites including abandoned research stations and famous explorer huts
- Enjoy stargazing and polar science insights from dedicated onboard experts
- Photography workshops
What's Included
- Voyage aboard the indicated vessel as indicated in the itinerary
- All meals throughout the voyage aboard the ship including snacks, coffee and tea.
- All shore excursions and activities throughout the voyage by Zodiac.
- Program of lectures by noted naturalists and leadership by experienced expedition staff.
- Free use of rubber boots and snowshoes.
- Pre-scheduled group transfer from the vessel to the airport in Ushuaia (directly after disembarkation).
- Luggage transfer from pick-up point to the vessel on the day of embarkation, in Ushuaia.
- All miscellaneous service taxes and port charges throughout the programme.
- Comprehensive pre-departure material.
So much to experience





















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A view from Above
All Aboard

MV Ortelius
Ortelius was built as a Russian scientific survey ship with ice strengthened hull, ideal for polar sailing. She has been completely refurbished for polar expedition travel and has a selection of suites and cabins with windows or portholes and private facilities. There are twin dining rooms, a lecture room, bar and observation lounge and lots of open deck space plus an open-bridge policy. Ortelius also has a helicopter landing pad and helicopter excursions are available on some itineraries.
we work hard to earn passionate reviews from our clients.


Now that I am back from my odyssey voyage, I thought I would let you know that after all that planning it really did exceed my expectations – we managed landings everywhere even on Tristan da Cuhna and had great bird sightings. The guides all knew what they were talking about too and made sure I got some great photos – still sorting them all out! Thanks for everything and see you at Birdfair!
Dave MartinOverall I think that it was an excellent trip that was well worth the price paid and I would have no hesitation recommending your company to others.
Steve Sutton
Just a quick note to express my sincere thanks to you and all your staff for making this an epic adventure of immense proportions. Everything went smoothly, pickups, hotels and most of all the expedition itself. Truly a mind blowing experience unlike any I have ever taken.
Mr J Borg, MaltaToo much to choose from? This is where we come in
Take advantage of our vast experience, passion and expertise to help you hand craft the perfect Antarctica adventure for you.

With countless travel experiences and an enduring hunger for adventure, Sheena knows exactly what’s needed to craft a holiday of a lifetime. Her experience and generosity of spirit are legendary and she’ll help you build an itinerary that will make all your dreams come true.

With a lifetime of unforgettable nature and adventure based travel under his belt, Simon shares his passion, enthusiasm and hands-on experience to help create the perfect itinerary for every client.

Mike has more than fifteen years hands-on experience in the industry, travelling to some of the most incredible wild places on the planet. His far-reaching knowledge and invaluable skills will ensure that your wildlife travel adventure is a dream come true.
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Ready to start planning youronce in a lifetime trip?
Call us - 0800 195 3385
Outside the uk? + 44 1625 5811 43
+ 44 1625 5811 43
Call us - 0800 195 3385
Chat Now
Request a
callback
Fill in our
Enquiry form

Book a
Consultation