Antarctica
Explore and Snorkel the 7th Continent on this epic land and snorkel expedition to Antarctica
The last frontier, the final destination, THE place to see penguins, cold water seals and whales. Extending almost 14 million km2, the Antarctic ice sheet is the world's largest single mass of ice.Up to 2.5 miles thick in places, it is also twice as big as Australia. It is one of the last truly wildplaces on Earth, sailing through its ice-choked waters is a once in a lifetime experience.
Visting one of our two poles and the 7th continent is a bucket list for all wildlife enthusiasts, but for ocean lovers it is also a challenge. Swimming in icey waters and seeing unimaginable worlds below the surface is a challenge and a dream come true.
OUR PROMISE
Insider Divers thrive to create the best possible expeditions by selecting the optimal season and best operator for every destination.
Overview
Animals
Accommodation
Greg Mortimer by Aurora
Launched in 2019, the Greg Mortimer is a 104-meter, Polar Class 6 (Ice Class 1A) expedition ship purpose-built for Aurora Expeditions. It is the first passenger vessel to feature the revolutionary ULSTEIN X-BOW®, which provides superior stability, comfort, and reduced fuel consumption in rough seas. Polar Class 6 (PC6) / 1A ice-strengthened hull allows for deeper, safer exploration of Arctic and Antarctic regions. Despite being loaded with technology and equipment this ship carries a maximum of 130 passengers, ensuring an intimate atmosphere and smooth landing operations. It is one of the few ships to support scuba diving and snorkeling.
Greg Mortimer by Aurora
Stateroom with Balcony - Category B
With a double bed or a twin and the comfort of a sitting area as well as a balcony. Category B is closer to the midship and is therefore less rocky during crossings - recommended for people getting seasick. Private bathroom, individual AC and heater.
Stateroom Superior
With a double bed or a twin and the comfort of a sitting area as well as a balcony. Private bathroom, individual AC and heater.
Activities
Snorkelling
Snorkelling
Our itinerary will allow up to two snorkel activities a day.
When we snorkel we will dothe land visit already wearing our drysuits andthen go snorkeling afterwards
Because we are the snorkel team we willhave two advantages
Our zodiacs will be first off the cruise ship,first on land
Walking tour & snorkeling at most landingsOur zodiacs get closer to ocean action (e.g.leopard seals and feeding whales)
Whale watching
Whale watching
You will be out on the water with the whales - closer and more intimate than anywhere else in the world. The Humpback whales will be feeding or resting and the boats can be close to observe. You will hear their blows, smell their breath and feel the awe of their enormous size.
Land Excursions
Land Excursions
Visiting Antartica is a combination of cruise expeditionwith up to* two daily land visits. We will visit landcovered by ice and snow and get close to it’sinhabitants namely penguins, seabirds and seals. Thisis the normal activity in Antarctica and will also be ourevery day activities. The zodiac cruises get us close toicebergs, penguins, orcas, whales, and leopard seals.
Going ashore means
Walking on ice or land to see ice and mountains.
Get close to penguins and seals
Hike to high spots for panoramic views
Trip leader
Simon Lorenz
Simon is an award winning photographer and PADI scuba instructor. He is the founder of Insider Divers and the main group leader on our trips. Having dived all over the world he often felt unsatisfied by the dive operations, by the background knowledge of the guides and by the inflexibility of the itineraries. This inspired him to create Insider Divers, where groups of fun international divers get the best possible itinerary.
REsponsibilities
- Briefings
- All organisation and logistics
- Wildlife presentations
- Snorkel and photography coaching
- Taking and sharing professional underwater photography
Itinerary
Inclusions
- TWin room with ensuite bathroom
- 6 activity days, plus 1 half day in UshuaiaFull board and beer/wine during dinner
- FREE 3-in-1 Polar jacket
- Lectures and presentations
- Muck boot usage
- Starlink internet
- Group transfers
- Drysuit usage
- Professional photos by Simon
- Flights to Buenos Aires and Ushuaia
- Visa
- Extra trips before or after
- Tips
Reviews
After 16 years in the dive industry, it’s rare for me to join a trip without thinking it could be improved — yet that’s exactly how I feel with Insider Divers.
Simon’s patience, Annabelle’s organized communication, and incredible guides like Grant in Norway and Ines in Dominica make everything seamless. From knowledgeable skippers to unforgettable whale encounters, the trips are respectful, professional, and exciting every day.
Ines and Grant made incredible presentations and took amazing photos of us in the water.
Truly the whole package — I’d rate them 10 out of 5.
"I’ve done a few trips with Insider Divers and plan to join more. I have had so much fun every time and learned so much. Insider Divers offers detailed and catered experiences that make sure you get the most out of any destination. Also they help to make you a much better diver plus I’ve met so many awesome people from all over the world."
"Insiders Divers provides the best of the best for diving adventures. I have been diving them for the last 5 years and every time the service and quality exceeds my expectations.
The communication and customer service are exceptional. All I have to do is show up is on point and makes traveling so much less of a hassle. The diving spots that are picked give us the best possible outcomes. The boats and resorts picked are top notch. The company has proven time and time again they care about us the customers and making sure we all have the best experience and vacation possible.
It's honestly the only company I trust because I know I will have an amazing trip with amazing people."
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FAQ
Do I need to be drysuit certified? Do I need a scuba license?
No, it is not necessary to be drysuit certified. This is a snorkel only trip.
You do not need a scuba certification as now scuba is included in this trip.
Will I get seasick?
The likelihood of getting seasick on the Drake Passage is very high, even for hardened sea people. We recommend dosing up on seasickness medication and hoping for calm crossing.
We’re here to help — reach out with any question you may have.