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26th March 2025
Ten of our luxury travel advisors recently set off to Antarctica, embarking on the one of a kind adventure of a lifetime.
Imagine setting foot on the last great wilderness on Earth, where the landscapes are untouched, wildlife thrives in pristine surroundings, and every moment feels like it was designed just for you. This is exactly what a recent trip to Antarctica with Aurora Expeditions delivered for ten Travel Associates advisors. From the spectacular sailing views to the intimate onboard experience, two advisors, Lisa Clarke and Kate Horsburgh, share every detail of their unforgettable adventure.
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Icebergs aplenty in Antarctica. Credit: Christine Bottrell
The journey began in Ushuaia, Argentina, the southernmost city in the world. After a night in this charming town, our advisors embarked on the Antarctic Explorer 12-day itinerary aboard the Sylvia Earle, a small, purpose-built ship that offers a level of intimacy rarely found on larger vessels. Sailing away from Ushuaia, with the stunning Andes in the distance, felt like the perfect send-off. Entering this icy terrain is like nothing you’ll ever experience, as Kate explains: “Seeing our first iceberg was super exciting. We could see it from afar, and as we got closer the size was extraordinary, it was all on its lonesome in the middle of the ocean."
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Travel Associates advisors onboard Aurora Expeditions
Aurora Expeditions' ships are smaller, meaning fewer passengers and more space to explore. The Sylvia Earle proved to be an incredibly special vessel. With just 120 passengers, there are no long queues, no waiting—just an intimate, personalised experience. “From boarding the Zodiacs to every staff member knowing your name, everything was so effortless, and we really felt like we were part of the Aurora family”, says Lisa.
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Penguins in Antarctica. Credit: Christine Bottrell.
Aurora Expeditions is known for its flexibility, and that was evident at every turn. The ship seemed to pivot effortlessly, adjusting to changing weather conditions with remarkable ease—also allowing the team to explore unexpected hidden gems along the way. Landing in Antarctica was an experience that words can't truly capture. As Kate recalls, “It's breathtaking, majestic, thrilling and unique. Being with nature in one of the most remote locations in the world is soothing on the soul.” The Zodiacs take you right up close to the wildlife, including humpback and minke whales, leopard, fur, weddell, and elephant seals, as well as gentoo, chinstrap, and adelie penguins. Each landing feels like a privilege, and the 10-pax limit for each Zodiac makes it feel really intimate. Also, with such small Zodiac groups, the ease to add an impromptu whale sighting or iceberg explore adds that extra special touch for passengers.
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Excursions onboard Aurora Expeditions. Credit: Christine Bottrell.
After returning to the ship, the sauna is the perfect place to warm up before heading out for another adventure. Another highlight was the onboard astronomy expert who led fascinating presentations after dinner. The incredible vantage points of the ship also set it apart. Lisa shares, “There were many quiet spaces for you to just absorb your surroundings or curl up with a good book. The Library had the best view, as it was at the front of the ship. The Observation Lounge, again, had fabulous views and was a lovely spot for a sundowner or an after-dinner drink.”
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Travel Associates advisors taking part in the polar plunge. Credit: Christine Bottrell
The polar plunge is a must for the adventurous at heart. On a stunning, sunny afternoon, there’s nothing more thrilling than taking a plunge into the icy waters—a once-in-a-lifetime experience that you’ll never forget.
The infamous Drake Passage crossing, although a bit shaky, was nothing compared to what some might expect. The ship arrived within 1.5 days (it usually takes about 2 days to make the crossing), and passengers were lucky enough to have a bonus landing on Snow Island, where they encountered a large group of elephant seals, a thrilling surprise. From there, the team flew home from King George Island—a marvellous option for those who may be a bit nervous about the crossing.
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Travel Associates advisors onboard Aurora Expeditions Sylvia Earle. Credit: Christine Bottrell
Antarctica is as breathtaking as it is peaceful. The silence, broken only by the crunching of ice or the exhale of a whale, is something that stays with you long after you’ve left. As Kate put it, “There is no noise pollution, just complete solitude. I would recommend this trip to anyone, even if you don't enjoy the cold. I loved it all but the Lemaire Channel is spectacular—you quietly and slowly cruise through a very narrow passage, surrounded by soaring mountains and floating ice, it's magical.”
Whether you’re looking for nature, adventure, wildlife, history, or just an escape from the noise of modern life, this trip will leave you in awe. Exploring Antarctica with Aurora Expeditions is a perspective-altering experience that takes you into one of the planet’s most remote landscapes—a truly one-of-a-kind journey. As Lisa says, “This was the ultimate trip of a lifetime. I am still pinching myself that I was even there. Aurora was simply sublime!”
