The journey toward Snow Hill Island puts you in true explorer mode, with the captain and expedition leader providing regular weather briefings, meteorological updates, and sea ice reports. Ice conditions determine how close Ultramarine can approach; from there, its twin-engine helicopters take over-much like setting out from base camp on a summit attempt-flying guests toward the emperor penguin colony. As experienced by guests on our November 2023 voyages-and again in 2025, a rare double success-the adventure begins with an extended helicopter transfer over a striking polar landscape of snow-capped peaks and apartment-building-sized tabular icebergs. The rookery lies on sea ice off the south coast of Snow Hill Island. Landings are made as close as possible to the colony while maintaining a safe, respectful distance from the penguins. Once on the ice, you'll walk toward the fabled emperor penguin colony-feeling the wind, hearing the crunch beneath your boots, and tracing paths carved by penguins before you. The sounds grow louder as you approach one of the rarest wildlife encounters on Earth: approximately 8,000 rarely seen emperor penguins gathered on the sea ice. The goal is to bring every guest to the colony at least once. The Expedition Team and onboard experts are on hand to interpret what you're seeing-from the penguins' tightly knit social structure to how they care for their young and even "body surf" across the ice in surprisingly agile fashion. This helicopter-supported search for the colony is, for many, the defining adventure of a lifetime. Back on Ultramarine, you'll be immersed in the Weddell Sea each day. Activities may include Zodiac cruising among icebergs, paddle-on-top kayaking, or observing weather forecasting and ship operations alongside the Expedition Team. A standout feature of the voyage is its bespoke educational program, blending lectures with hands-on learning. Polar experts-including penguin scientists, biologists, and historians-share insights into emperor penguin behavior, the formation of tabular icebergs visible from the ship, and the legacy of early explorers who ventured into the Weddell Sea more than a century ago. You might also take the polar plunge, try standup paddleboarding, or unwind in Ultramarine's spa, sauna, or fitness room. While the emperor penguin colony at Snow Hill Island is the expedition's goal, conditions ultimately decide our access. If weather or sea ice prevents or limits a visit, alternative sites may be explored. Possible landings occur along the eastern side of the Antarctic Peninsula-an extension of the Transantarctic Mountains and the continent's northernmost reach-ensuring a rich and varied Antarctic experience regardless of conditions. ...
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