Antarctica: Private Sailing Expedition                
 Voted Travelers' Choice 2024
  Office Hours: 8-4PM MT  
supervisor_account

Find Your Next Photo Adventure

Destinations

Resources For Photographers
About Our Company
arrow_drop_down_circle
Divider Text

Antarctica: Private Sailing Expedition

Ship-Based Photo Tour
Book Trip
arrow_drop_down_circle
Divider Text

Antarctica: Private Sailing Expedition

Ship-Based Photo Tour
Upcoming Departures
  Don't See The Dates You're Looking For?  

[Block//Start Date %M j%+0] - [Block//End Date %M j, Y%+0]
[Block//Web Spots Left]

Trip Leader(s)
[Block//Trip Leader #1]
[Block//Trip Leader #2]

Starting From [Block//Current Price]

Single Supplement: +$795.00
  [Block//Online Availability]  
  Deposit: $8,500.00  
Start/End

Punta Arenas, Chile / Punta Arenas, Chile

Length

17 Days/16 Nights

Fitness Level

Level 1 - What's This?

Group Size

Up To 6 Guests

Highlights
  • Private Expedition With 6 Photographers - Less Than 1% of Visitors Get to Experience the 7th Continent Like This.

  • Skip The Roughest Passage in the World AND Save 4 Days That We Can Use to Explore Peninsula.

  • Ultimate Flexibility - The Chance to Capture One-of-a-Kind Images from Antarctica. Our Private Sailing Setup Affords Us Flexibility to Do What We Want & When We Want. Something You'll Never Find On Larger Cruises.

  • Promotional Pricing - Operators Using Vessel Charge $40,000 Per Trip. Our Special Connections Allow Us to Charge Less - And We'll Specialize in Photography.

If you have any questions about a trip, itinerary, or gear, our Photo Experience Coordinators are available for a personalized one-on-one consultation to provide all the details you need.
Trip Description:

Join us on an exclusive photographic adventure with our private Antarctica: Private Sailing Expedition aboard SY Ocean Tramp. This unique journey offers unparalleled access to Antarctica, bypassing the daunting Drake Passage with private charter flights. Limited to just 6 photographers and a professional photo guide, you'll be part of a special group. Less than 1% of Antarctica's visitors experience the continent in such an intimate setting, this is an exclusive opportunity (most are aboard 50-150 passenger ships with strict restrictions and rigid schedules).

Our small group size is a game-changer for photography enthusiasts. Unlike larger vessels that carry hundreds of passengers and operate on inflexible schedules, our expedition offers unmatched freedom. With the ability to navigate swiftly and access remote locations, we ensure that your photographic experience is unhampered by crowds or constraints. You'll have the liberty to chase the perfect light and select prime locations – essential elements for capturing extraordinary images. Golden Hour can last for long periods of time in the summertime and we have the luxury of chasing light and being in the right place. Due to this rare flexibility, this is a chance to capture some of the most unique shots from Antarctica - the number of photographers who have traveled to Antarctica and have had this luxury is most likely under 100!

This expedition is not just a journey; it's a rare opportunity to photograph the untouched beauty of Antarctica in its purest form.

In addition to the unique photographic advantages, our expedition also provides a more comfortable crossing of the Drake Passage. By flying over this notoriously rough stretch of sea via private charter, we avoid 4 days of traverse and reallocate this time to explore the wonders of the Antarctic Peninsula.

We were approached with the opportunity to do this trip with special promotional costs. This allows us to offer a very competitive one-time price for this trip. Other general tour operators use this same sailing yacht in Antarctica and charge $40,000 per person. In 2025 and 2026, we are able to price with over a $10,000 discount!

Key Highlights of the Expedition:

  • Exclusive, small-group setting for a personalized and immersive photographic experience.

  • Unmatched flexibility in itinerary and ashore activities, tailored for photography.

  • One-Time Promotional Pricing + Specialized Photo Expedition. 

Please note, that while our vessel, the SY Ocean Tramp, is comfortable and well-equipped, this expedition prioritizes incredible photographic opportunities over luxury. The vessel has a decade-long reputation for excellence in Antarctic expeditions and is perfectly suited for photographers seeking adventure and unparalleled photographic opportunities.

Please download the itinerary to view specific details about SY Ocean Tramp, the cabins, and deck plan.

Our aim is to ensure that all guests are comfortable and fully embrace the exploratory and communal essence of our journey, making your experience in Antarctica both memorable and enjoyable.

Join us for this once-in-a-lifetime experience to capture the awe-inspiring beauty of Antarctica, where photography, adventure, and an intimate group setting converge to create unforgettable memories.

*Note: Due to charter flight availability the Dec 18, 2025 - Jan 4, 2026 departure is one day longer, for a total of 18 days/17 nights.  

What's Included
  • All listed meals and non-alcoholic beverages during the workshop

  • All transportation during the workshop

  • All lodging during the workshop

  • Airport transfers

  • All permits, park, and admission fees

  • Arctic Muck Boots

  • Private Charter Flights Across Drake Passage (these seats range from $6,000-8,000 and are included)

  • Professional photography guiding and instruction

What's Not Included
  • Flights to and from Punta Arenas, Chile.

  • Meals not listed as included on the itinerary

  • Lodging outside workshop dates

  • Alcoholic beverages

  • Souvenirs and personal items

  • Argentina and Chile Tourist Visas (if applicable)

  • Gratuity for crew and photography guide(s). Please refer to our FAQ section for more details about gratuities.

  • Trip Insurance & Medical Evacuation Insurance (REQUIRED) - see plans here.

 Trip Itinerary 

Most meals included – (B,L,D) denotes Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Weather-Related Delays: Be prepared for potential delays or changes due to weather, affecting both flight and sailing schedules.

Day 1

Arrive to Punta Arenas, Chile (PUQ) and transfer to your awaiting hotel. To combat delays, arriving to Punta Arenas 24-36 hours before we fly to Antarctica is required.

Day 2 (B, D)

Breakfast will be provided at the hotel (on your own) and you'll have the day to explore Punta Arenas or relax. In the evening, there will be mandatory orientation and safety briefing.

Day 3 (B,L,D)

Depart from Punta Arenas and fly across the Drake Passage on our private charter flight. Board our yacht at King George Island and our Antarctic Adventure begins.

Day 4-15 (B,L,D)

During these days, our flexible schedule allows us to adapt to the offerings of the Antarctic Peninsula. We embark on Zodiac tours, gliding through the icy waters to witness the magnificent mountains and marine life up close. These excursions provide incredible chances to photograph the surreal beauty of the ice formations and the wildlife that call this frozen wonderland home.

We'll have shore landings, walk amongst penguin colonies, visit old townsites, and more. Ultimately, we will chase the light and make it our goal to capture the finest Antarctica images of landscapes and wildlife.

Day 16 (B,L,D)

Disembark from the SY Ocean Tramp and prepare for your flight back to Punta Arenas. Once back, we'll transfer to our hotel and enjoy a final celebratory meal.

Day 17 (B)

Transfers  to Punta Arenas airport (PUQ) and return flights home at any time.

Important Information: The weather is the primary determinant of our flight schedules to and from King George Island along the Antarctic Peninsula. If unfavorable weather conditions arise, our travel plans may be delayed, requiring us to wait until conditions improve. Occasionally, we may advance our flight schedule to preempt adverse weather. While historical weather trends suggest minimal delays, typically not extending beyond a few days, predicting the exact timing or clearance of poor weather remains uncertain. To mitigate potential disruptions, we have incorporated extra time into our itinerary as a safety margin.

Please note that the exact sequence of the itineraries on all photography trips will be based on weather and lighting conditions. The goal on these trips is to make sure we are at the right place at the right time for the perfect light on our subjects. Also, itineraries can change for a variety of other circumstances including floods, forest fires, national park closures, road closures, and more. Due to the nature of wildlife and landscape photography, we do not guarantee any specific sightings or specific compositions.
More Trips Like This
[Block//Trip Category (Destinations)]
arrow_drop_down_circle
Divider Text
[Block//Trip Length]
From [Block//Basic Pricing]
arrow_drop_down_circle
Divider Text
Why Choose Backcountry Journeys?
UNPARALELLED
PHOTOGRAPHY
TRIPS
arrow_drop_down_circle
Divider Text
Explore over 100 worldwide photo tours and workshops tailored to photographers of all skill levels, from iconic U.S. National Parks to Africa's untamed savannahs.


THE BEST TEAM
IN THE
BUSINESS
arrow_drop_down_circle
Divider Text
We're proud to offer unmatched photography trips led by exceptional instructors who not only excel in photography but also serve as expert guides.


WORLD-CLASS
PHOTOGRAPHY
COMMUNITY

arrow_drop_down_circle
Divider Text
Join the Backcountry Journeys Tribe, where shared adventures in breathtaking locations foster lasting connections with fellow photographers in a warm, inclusive atmosphere.
Testimonials From Our Customers
Julie K.
"I have traveled with Backcountry Journeys (BCJ) several times over the last 4 years to Glacier NP, Costa Rica (2x), Smoky Mountains NP, Joshua Tree, Zion and Bryce NPs, and most recently to Alaska.

Every trip with BCJ has been an outstanding experience. The guides are professional photographers who put the experience of the guests first. They are willing to provide as much hands on help as you need/want. The guides are also extremely knowledgeable and well trained in wilderness safety as well as the areas they guide.

BCJ trips are well run from the time of reservation through the entire trip. They will take you to great places and find great photographic opportunities."
arrow_drop_down_circle
Divider Text
Scott S.
"BCJ provides an outstanding experience for photographers of all levels of experience/expertise. Each day's excursion is well planned-out and the guides always have a back-up plan if the weather is less than cooperative.

I have now been on 5 trips and each one seems better than the last. I find the guides to be very helpful and personable. The guides provide the level of hands-on assistance each participant wants.

The accommodations are always good, taking into consideration what each particular destination has to offer. I plan to continue doing these trips with BCJ and can't recommend them highly enough."
arrow_drop_down_circle
Divider Text
Katherine P.
"I have now been on 8 trips with Backcountry Journeys. I love traveling with this company, as I am a woman traveling alone, and all I have to do is show up and they take care of everything else.

They have wonderful, caring, helpful, FUN, and knowledgeable guides who make the days fly by. They get us to the best photography sites possible and are always willing to help with anything and answer all questions.

We stay in great places and there is always too much wonderful food! I have met other travelers on their trips who will be friends for life, plus the guides are more than guides--they become friends too. I know I will be doing more traveling with them in the future."
arrow_drop_down_circle
Divider Text

Worry Free Travel Guarantee!

HERE’S THE DEAL

We offer one of the most rock solid guarantees in the travel industry - our worry free travel, peace of mind guarantee to you!

We’re so confident that the Photography Trips we offer will not only meet but exceed the lofty expectations set forth on our website – if your trip experience does not 100% match the promises laid forth on our website we will gladly give you a credit toward a future trip.

Natural events such as wildlife & weather are certainly out of our control but every aspect of the trip including logistics, accommodations, vehicles, itinerary & your expert trip leaders will match the lofty promises we’ve
made on the site – we guarantee it!
BACKCOUNTRY JOURNEYS
"Backcountry Journeys offers guests the unique opportunity to explore our natural world from behind their own lens. We run a selection of hand-crafted Photo Tours, Workshops & Safaris connecting passionate people to exceptional experiences. Locations worldwide.
All Images & Content are property of Backcountry Journeys Photography Tours, Workshops & Safaris LLC - Copyright 2024
CONTACT US
Monday-Friday
8am to 4pm Mountain Time
928-478-1521
adventure@backcountryjourneys.com

TRIP CATALOG

Download our Trip Catalog for detailed information on our many destinations for photography tours, workshops, and safaris.

BACKCOUNTRY JOURNEYS
"Backcountry Journeys offers guests the unique opportunity to explore our natural world from behind their own lens. We run a selection of hand-crafted Photo Tours, Workshops & Safaris connecting passionate people to exceptional experiences. Locations worldwide.

- Russ Nordstrand, Backcountry Journeys Founder & Director
CONTACT US
Monday-Friday
8am to 4pm Mountain Time
928-478-1521
adventure@backcountryjourneys.com

TRIP CATALOG

Download our Trip Catalog for detailed information on our many destinations for photography tours, workshops, and safaris.

All Images & Content are property of Backcountry Photography Tours, Workshops & Safaris LLCs - Copyright 2024
[bot_catcher]