Antarctica 2027 Photography Adventure
Workshop Information Packet

Contents:

I. General Information

II. To Do Checklist

III. Daily Itinerary

IV. FAQs

Antarctica 2027 Photography Adventure
General Information

  

Welcome!

Thanks again for joining our Antarctica 2027: Living Wilderness & Immersive Icescapes Photography Adventure!

We know you’re just as excited as we are to embark on this once-in-a-lifetime journey. But before we set sail, a bit of preparation is needed to ensure everything runs smoothly. This document contains essential information to help you prepare for our expedition. Please take the time to read it thoroughly.

Additional Information from Oceanwide Expeditions

In addition to this packet, you may find these documents from Oceanwide Expeditions  useful:

Workshop Dates: February 13-March 7, 2027

Leader/Instructor: Ken Lee

Workshop Overview

The workshop begins on February 13, 2027 in Ushuaia, Argentina (airport code:USH) when we board the Oceanwide Expedition’s  vessel, m/v Hondius and concludes upon our return to Ushuaia on March 7, 2027.

In between, we will explore and photograph one of the most remote and visually breathtaking regions on Earth on a journey that includes stops in the Falkland Islands, South Georgia Island, and the Antarctic Peninsula.

Take a look at the Daily Itinerary in this packet or on the workshop page of our website for more details about the locations we will visit and the extraordinary moments we expect to see and photograph throughout our journey.

Balance of Fees

The balance of your workshop fees is due as follows:

  • Final Payment: Due Nov 1, 2026 - remainder of all fees. The exact amount of your final payment depends on cabin choice.  

You will receive an invoice by email after registration that contains all charges, payments and due dates related to this workshop. Click the link in the invoice to access your Customer Portal where you can make payments, view or download statements, receipts and more at your convenience. 

Health/Medical

Immunizations – there are no specific immunization requirements to enter Argentina, but you should consult with your doctor or travel clinic about any recommended vaccinations. The U.S. CDC website also contains general information that may be useful.

Prescription Medications – Pack an adequate supply of any prescription medications (and supplements) you take, as they may not be available in on board.

Allergies – please let us know about any allergies you have AND the severity of your reactions. It is your responsibility to carry appropriate medications (e.g. Epi Pen) in case of accidental exposure.

Travel Logistics & Documents

International Flights –

Inbound – You must be in Ushuaia (Airport code: USH) by 8am on February 13 but we strongly encourage arrival at least one day early (i.e. Feb 12 or earlier) in case of travel delays.

Outbound – Book your departing flight from USH for after 2:00PM for March 7 

Lodging in Ushuaia – we will provide recommendations for lodging options in Ushuaia in a future pre-trip email.

Passport – now is the time to double-check the expiration date of your passport. Your passport must be valid for at least 3 months past the date you will depart Argentina.

Visas/ETA’s

Americans – US passport holders do not need to obtain a visa in advance to visit Argentina. 

Other Nationalities – check online or with the Argentinean embassy or consulate in your country to determine if you need to obtain a visa in advance of travel.

No specific immunizations are required to visit Argentina, but you should check with your health provider’s travel clinic or consult the CDC website for health/immunization recommendations. 

Travel Insurance – Oceanwide requires travelers to carry a travel insurance a policy which includes at least $100,000 coverage for medical evacuation is mandatory. Proof of coverage is required  in Oceanwide’s Personal Information Form which must be completed by all travelers.

Phone Carrier – look into your phone carrier’s international roaming policies and rates BEFORE leaving home or you may return to an extremely expensive bill. You may want to pre-purchase a data plan from your carrier.

WhatsApp – is a free communications app that is used widely outside of the US. We will be using this for inter group communications. Please download & install WhatsApp and create an account before arriving in Ushuaia. You may also want your loved ones at home to install this app.

What to Pack

Clothing & Personal Items

Oceanwide’s Expedition Manual contains detailed recommendations for clothing and other items to pack. Oceanwide’s blog post: What to pack for your expedition cruise to the Arctic or Antarctic also contains useful information

Below is an excerpt from our FAQs about typical weather conditions for our voyage:

What will the weather be like? How Cold does it get?

Surprisingly mild–February/March is summer in the southern hemisphere. Typical temperatures for our major destinations are:

  • Falklands: Daytime highs in the low 50’s °F (~11 °C), Overnight lows mid 40’s °F (~7 °C)

  • South Georgia: Daytime highs around 40°F (~4 °C), Overnight lows mid 30’s °F (~1 °C)

  • Antarctic Peninsula: Daytime highs in the low to mid 30’s °F (~1 °C), Overnight lows in the the 20’s to low 30’s °F (~0°C)

Keep in mind these are just historical norms–Mother Nature makes no promises so it’s good to be prepared for conditions outside of the normal range. Also, precipitation is possible throughout our voyage.

Photo Gear

It’s tempting to bring everything you own, but that usually works against you. If you decide to bring the kitchen sink, we strongly recommend bringing a smaller camera bag/backpack that you are comfortable carrying all day as well.  We’re happy to recommend brands and models that suit your needs and budget. Just ask.

  • Camera Body(s) – 1 or 2 camera bodies. Mirrorless cameras, especially models that have animal eye-tracking are truly game changers for wildlife photography – highly recommended. Higher end ‘point & shoot’ cameras with a good zoom (aka ‘bridge cameras’) are also an option. Lastly, smartphone cameras are excellent cameras in general and will produce great results for scenic/landscape shots but you will want something else for telephoto wildlife photos.

Bring a paper or electronic copy of your camera’s operating manual.

  • Lenses:

    • Long telephoto - A zoom like a 100-400mm range will be your workhorse for wildlife photography and isolating distant subjects.

    • A medium telephoto like a 70-200mm zoom will also be useful for isolating landscape details and creating compression.

    • Wide-angle(s) (24mm or less, 15mm ideal) will also see a lot of use for landscapes.

  • Filters – a polarizer and ND filter can be nice to have with varying lighting situations.

  • Extra Batteries and Memory cards – you will be shooting a lot, maybe more than you ever have. Bring PLENTY of memory cards and batteries. You should NOT erase/overwrite any memory cards until you get home, even if you have downloaded the images to your laptop or hard drive.

  • Tripod – sturdy, but light with a ballhead is ideal. Your tripod should be tall enough WITHOUT the center column extended that you don’t have to bend over uncomfortably. Hand holding extreme telephoto lenses is not ideal for best results

  • Small Camera bag/daypack – you don’t always need all your gear. A small bag for personal items and a few photo essentials is very handy and a back-saver.

  • Headlamp – MUCH better than a flashlight because it leaves both hands free.

  • Remote release (optional)

  • Cleaning Kit – nothing fancy, a lens cloth, cleaning fluid and a small brush/toothbrush are all you need

  • Rain Protection  - there are many choices out there but we haven’t found anything better than OP/Tech’s Rainsleeve, which happens to be one of the least expensive options. Make sure to get the right size(s) to fit all your lenses.

  • Microfiber towels – one or two of these inside a Ziploc bag are always handy to have in your bag to wipe moisture off your camera body or lens

  • Dry bag – Rain is possible throughout the trip, and sea spray is likely during Zodiac excursions. A waterproof dry bag big enough to hold your camera bag is ideal. You may also be able to get by with a solid rain cover for your camera bag.

  • Accessories – make sure to pack critical accessories like your camera battery charger, memory card reader, data cables and tripod quick-release plates!

Other Gear

  • Laptop or tablet –highly recommended. Your photography will improve if you review your images daily. Doing preliminary selects and ratings also makes the mountain of images more manageable when you get home. We will also have multiple sessions on post processing and image management in Adobe Lightroom.

  • Portable hard drive - ideal for image storage/backup. If you are purchasing one, look for a solid-state (SSD) type that is   “bus powered” – a drive that gets its power from the computer and does not require a separate power cord (most SSD’s are bus powered).  1TB capacity minimum, 2TB is better.

  • Power adapters –The m/v Hondius runs on 230-volt electricity with Type C or F outlets. Argentina also mostly uses Type C outlets but Type I outlets occasionally used.

    • We recommend simple adapters like this or this

    • A ‘universal’ adapter like one of these will also work

    • A small power strip is also handy for charging multiple devices simultaneously but make sure it is specifically designed for travel or rated for 230+ volts. Here are some options

    • Most modern electronics (phones, laptops, chargers) have built-in voltage converters and require only a simple plug adapter.

    • Check higher power devices like hair dryers and shavers to make sure they are compatible with 230-volt power.  Here is a link to a good article on travel adapters if you need more information.

  • Chargers and cables for your mobile phone and other electronics

  • Power bank – always handy when traveling.

  • Phone Leash  - Highly recommended

Miscellaneous

A Word About Gratuities –think you will find our guides the staff aboard the m/v Hondius to be outstanding at what they do. If you feel you have received good service, a gratuity is greatly appreciated.

  • Oceanwide’s guidance for gratuities is 10-15 USD/EU per guest per day for the entire Hondius crew. Cash is preferred but you can also add gratuities to your onboard account at the end of the trip (billed to your credit card).

If there’s anything we’ve missed or you have questions, please contact us via email, text/WhatsApp or phone.

I look forward to meeting you in Ushuaia!

Ken Lee
+1 949-282-9660 mobile/WhatsApp
ken@artofseeing.com

 

 

 

Antarctica 2027
To Do Checklist

 

___     Book Inbound/Outbound flights and forward a copy of your flight itinerary to us.

___     Purchase Travel Insurance and forward copy of your policy

___     Notify Banks & Credit Cards of your travel plans

___     Check mobile phone carrier’s international roaming policies and plans

___     Make personal packing checklist (click here for a downloadable Photo Trip Packing List template you can customize to your own needs)

Antarctica 2027
Daily Itinerary

Below is a summary what to expect on our 23-day voyage. An expanded, day-by-day itinerary is available on Oceanwide’s Expedition Page for this journey:

Day Date Itinerary Overnight Meals Included
1 Feb 13 Departure from Ushuaia – Our voyage begins where the world ends – Ushuaia, Argentina, the southernmost city on the planet.

After dropping off our luggage in the morning to be loaded aboard the m/v Hondius, we have the rest of the day to explore this small resort town nicknamed “The End of the World.”

We’ll board the Hondius at 4pm and set sail shortly after along the mountain fringed Beagle Channel

Note: We advise arriving in Ushuaia at least one day early in case of travel delays which are common in this part of the world. Lodging in Ushuaia is not included, but hotel recommendations will be provided to registered participants. 		m/v Hondius D
2 Feb 14 At Sea – a full day at sea on our way to the Falkland Islands. Enjoy the ships amenities and naturalist programs. We’ll also use this time to get everyone up to speed on our photo gear and settings. Ken will also introduce his “Whole Brain” approach to addressing the craft and creative aspects of photography. m/v Hondius B-L-D
3 Feb 15 Falklands Arrival - Our first wildlife encounters begin in the Falklands, a remote archipelago rich with approachable birdlife and marine mammals. We’ll make multiple off-ship excursions (conditions permitting)—both landings and near shore Zodiac cruises—to photograph albatrosses, imperial shags, and several penguin species, including King, Gentoo, Magellanic, and Rockhopper. Peale’s and Commerson’s dolphins are often seen in surrounding waters, adding to the photographic potential of this lesser-known gem. m/v Hondius B-L-D
4 Feb 16 Port Stanley, Falkland Islands – After an overnight sail, we arrive in Port Stanley—the historic capital of the Falklands and a unique blend of remote frontier and British charm. With its colorful homes, vintage pubs, and century-old shipwrecks, this town offers photographic opportunities around every corner. Keep an eye out for local wildlife like upland geese and caracaras as you explore. A visit to the Falklands Museum is included, offering insight into the islands’ storied past—from early settlement to the Falklands War. m/v Hondius B-L-D
5–6 Feb 17–18 At Sea, en Route to South Georgia – As we cross the Antarctic Convergence, the sea comes alive with birdlife—albatrosses, petrels, prions, and other seabirds drawn to the nutrient-rich waters where ocean currents collide. Take this opportunity to rest, reflect, or join our optional photography sessions. Work on your images individually or join a group editing session, connect with Ken for one-on-one feedback, or simply relax, read, or watch seabirds from the deck. All photography activities are completely optional—this is your time, and how you spend it is entirely up to you. m/v Hondius B-L-D
7–10 Feb 19–22 South Georgia Island – South Georgia is one of the most ecologically extraordinary places on Earth. This rugged sub-Antarctic island hosts an overwhelming abundance of wildlife—millions of Fur seals, vast rookeries of King Penguins, towering cliffs alive with nesting seabirds, and Elephant seals sprawled across beaches in every direction. It quickly becomes apparent why South Georgia earned the nickname “Serengeti of the Southern Ocean.”

We’ll make the most of this wildlife spectacle with multiple off-ship excursions daily—both landings and Zodiac cruises—to maximize our photo opportunities and immersive, up-close wildlife encounters.

We’ll explore iconic sites such as Salisbury Plain, St. Andrews Bay, and Gold Harbour, each home to massive King Penguin colonies and teeming Fur seal nurseries. At Fortuna Bay, we’ll photograph seals and penguins set against glacier-carved landscapes, near the final leg of Shackleton’s historic crossing to Stromness. We’ll also explore Grytviken, an abandoned whaling station now reclaimed by nature, where King Penguins wander the ruins and Elephant seals nap in the streets, while visiting Shackleton’s grave and the South Georgia Museum. 		m/v Hondius B-L-D
11 Feb 23 At Sea – There may be sea ice on this route, and at the edge of the ice some south polar skuas and snow petrels could join the other seabirds trailing the vessel south. m/v Hondius B-L-D
12 Feb 24 South Orkney Islands Arrival – Remote and seldom visited, the South Orkneys offer a dramatic polar landscapes, rugged coastlines, and rich photographic potential. If conditions allow, we may land at Orcadas Base on Laurie Island, where panoramic views of ice and sea surround one of Antarctica’s oldest research stations.

Alternatively, we may explore Shingle Cove on Coronation Island—a sheltered bay framed by rocky outcrops and ice cliffs, ideal for capturing moody landscapes, wildlife sightings, and the quiet drama of the polar environment. 		m/v Hondius B-L-D
13 Feb 25 South Orkney–Elephant Island – Arriving at Elephant Island, we retrace part of Shackleton’s legendary 1916 rescue journey—a story of endurance that still echoes across the ice. If weather permits, a Zodiac landing at Point Wild offers the chance to stand where his crew survived for months against towering cliffs and relentless seas. For photographers, it’s a rare opportunity to capture not just a landscape, but a story—one of survival, scale, and the raw power of nature. m/v Hondius B-L-D
14 Feb 26 Elephant Island – Antarctic Peninsula – Conditions allowing, we’ll sail into the Antarctic Sound, where colossal tabular icebergs drift silently through vast, glassy waters—an awe-inspiring gateway to the eastern edge of the Antarctic Peninsula. Photographer or not, this is likely the Antarctica of your dreams: towering walls of ice, endless textures, and ever-changing icescapes—ideal for dramatic compositions that highlight the scale and silence of the polar environment.

A potential landing at Brown Bluff offers a powerful visual contrast: dark volcanic cliffs, glacier-fed slopes, and colonies of Adélie and Gentoo penguins along the shore. It’s also one of the few places we may set foot on the Antarctic continent—an unforgettable experience for any explorer or photographer. 		m/v Hondius B-L-D
15 Feb 27 South Shetland Islands Arrival – Shaped by volcanic forces and often shrouded in mist, the South Shetlands offer a moody, evocative landscape. These islands are home to a surprising variety of life — gentoo and chinstrap penguins, southern giant petrels, and hardy polar flora like mosses and lichens that cling to the rocky terrain.

Deception Island, where our ship navigates through Neptune’s Bellows into a flooded volcanic caldera is one of the photographic highlights here. Inside, you’ll find haunting remnants of an abandoned whaling station, dramatic black-sand beaches, and swirling birdlife, including cape petrels, skuas, kelp gulls, and Antarctic terns. Whether capturing stark landscapes, wildlife behavior, or the interplay of steam, ash, and snow, this is a place where storytelling and composition come alive. 		m/v Hondius B-L-D
16–20 Feb 28–March 4 South Shetlands – Antarctic Peninsula – This segment of the voyage offers some of the most iconic and varied photographic opportunities in Antarctica. We’ll navigate through the Gerlache Strait and surrounding areas, where snow-covered peaks, glacier faces, and towering icebergs create powerful backdrops for both wide landscapes and intimate wildlife scenes.

In Neko Harbour, dramatic mountain reflections and close encounters with penguins and seals provide chances to photograph wildlife in striking alpine settings. At Paradise Bay, we’ll cruise through still, iceberg-laden waters where Humpback and Minke whales often surface—a prime setting for capturing motion and scale in serene conditions.

If conditions permit, we may cross the Antarctic Circle, visiting lesser-traveled sites like Crystal Sound, known for its dense sea ice and ethereal light, and Detaille Island, where an abandoned British station sits against a glacier-ringed horizon—perfect for storytelling images that combine human history and polar isolation.

Weather and sea conditions will shape our route, but this region consistently delivers some of the most atmospheric, diverse, and rewarding photographic moments of the entire voyage. 		m/v Hondius B-L-D
21–22 March 5–6 At Sea, En Route to Ushuaia – Our return voyage is far from lonely. While crossing the Drake, we’re again greeted by the vast array of seabirds remembered from the passage south. But they seem a little more familiar to you now, and you to them. m/v Hondius B-L-D
23 March 7 Arrival– Ushuaia – Every adventure, no matter how grand, must eventually come to an end. It’s now time to disembark in Ushuaia, but with memories that will accompany you wherever your next adventure lies. – B

Note: This itinerary describes our general plan but is subject to change without notice due to weather, sea conditions, logistical considerations or other reasons.

Antarctica 2027 FAQs

Below is a selection of Frequently Asked Questions which are particularly relevant to our journey. In addition, Oceanwide maintains a well organized and searchable FAQ database with answers to over 460 questions.

 

Q: What are the cabin choices and costs?

A: Click here to view descriptions and photos of the  various lodging options available and their costs. When you’re ready to sign up, click any of the Sign Me Up buttons on our Antarctica page and complete the registration form to join the Art of Seeing Photography group. 

 

Q: I don’t have a travel partner. Will you find a roommate for me?

A: Yes, we will first try to pair you with a same gender roommate(s) from our (Art of Seeing) group. If one is not available, Oceanwide will match you with a same gender roommate(s) from the general passenger list.

If you do not want to share a cabin with another passenger, you can book a twin cabin for your own individual use. The single supplement of 1.7 will then apply.

The single supplement is only applicable when you request a guaranteed single cabin. If you end up being alone in your cabin simply by chance, we do not charge the single supplement.

 

Q: What are the Physical Fitness Requirements for this trip?

A: You must be in good overall health and be able to walk several hours per day. The expedition is ship-based and physically not very demanding, but we spend as much time as possible on shore. You are, however, welcome to remain aboard the ship if you prefer. To join most excursions, you must be able to get up and down the steep gangway ― from the ship to the water level ― to board the Zodiacs. Staff will assist you in and out of the boats, and boarding will become progressively easier with practice, but conditions on shore can be slippery and rocky. Remember, you will be traveling in remote areas without access to sophisticated medical facilities and evacuation by air may not be possible, so you must not join this expedition if you have a life-threatening condition or need daily medical treatment. 

 

Q: Why this trip/itinerary?

A: This extended voyage includes not only the Antarctic Peninsula but also the Falkland Islands and South Georgia—two of the most wildlife-rich regions on Earth. Shorter trips often miss these highlights. Scheduled for late February to early March, the itinerary also aligns with peak whale migration, mild temperatures, and balanced day/night light—making it ideal for both exploration and photography.

 

Q: Why book with Art of Seeing?

A: When you book through Art of Seeing, you receive a full photography workshop—at no extra cost—on top of everything included with Oceanwide Expeditions. You’ll travel with a creative community of like-minded explorers, turning an already extraordinary journey into a deeper, more immersive experience.

 

Q: Do I need to be an expert photographer?

A: No, we welcome photographers of all experience levels. Whether you’re an expert photographer or just enjoy taking meaningful photos as part of your travel experience, you’ll find inspiration, support, and instruction designed to meet you where you are—sharpening your skills and enriching the way you see the world.

 

Q: Can my non-photographer partner attend?

A: Absolutely, all photography related activities are optional. There are plenty of activities and people aboard to keep those who might not share your passion for pictures entertained and occupied.

 

Q: What kind of photography equipment do I need?

A: A complete list of recommended photography gear and accessories will be provided to registered participants. In general, a dSLR or Mirrorless camera(s) with a selection of lenses ranging from wide angle (≤ 24 mm) to telephoto (≥400mm) is a good starting point some high-end point and shoot (I.E Bridge cameras) are also an option. An action-cam (e.g. GoPro) could also be handy. Other important items include a dry bag or good rain cover for your camera bag and PLENTY of extra memory cards & batteries. Lastly, don’t forget your smartphone is a fantastic camera! We’re happy to make specific recommendations, just ask.<<link to Inquiry form>>

 

Q: Can I bring a Drone?

A: No, the use of drones is prohibited on ship or during excursions in accordance with guidelines from IAATO (International Association of Antarctic Tour Operators) and AECO(Association of Arctic Expedition Cruise Operators). 

 

Q: What will the weather be like? How Cold does it get?

A: Surprisingly mild–February/March is summer in the southern hemisphere. Typical temperatures for our major destinations are:

  • Falklands: Daytime highs in the low 50’s °F (~11 °C), Overnight lows mid 40’s °F (~7 °C)

  • South Georgia: Daytime highs around 40°F (~4 °C), Overnight lows mid 30’s °F (~1 °C)

  • Antarctic Peninsula: Daytime highs in the low to mid 30’s °F (~1 °C), Overnight lows in the the 20’s to low 30’s °F (~0°C)

Keep in mind these are just historical norms–Mother Nature makes no promises so it’s good to be prepared. Also, precipitation is possible throughout our voyage.

 

Q: What clothing should I pack?

A: Oceanwide’s blog post: What to Pack for Your Expedition Cruise to the Arctic or Antarctica answers this question in detail. Additional information will be provided to participants after registration

 

Q: Can I rent cold weather gear?

A: Yes, Oceanwide works with an outfitter in Ushuaia that can rent you whatever you need for the voyage. Let us know if you are interested in renting clothing.

 

Q: How many passengers will be onboard?

A: The m/v Hondius can carry up to 170 passengers.

 

Q: Is Wi-Fi Available Onboard?

A: Yes, Oceanwide provides complimentary Wi-Fi internet connectivity up to 1.5 GB of data per day. Additional data can be purchased outside of this free allowance.

 

Q: Is Laundry Available?

A: Yes, an additional charge applies. Turnaround time is approximately 24 hrs.

 

 

Something we missed?

Send us an email or schedule a phone call. We’re happy to address any questions.