Ultima Antarctic Expeditions has officially launched its much-anticipated 2024/2025 season, introducing travelers to the mesmerizing depths of Antarctica with a blend of luxury, eco-conscious travel, and unique adventure. The highlight of this season is the grand debut of Ultima Oasis Camp, a premier facility poised to set new standards in polar luxury and adventure tourism. This article takes an in-depth look at what travelers can expect from Ultima’s latest season and what makes this Antarctic experience so exceptional.
Setting the Stage for an Unforgettable Season
Months of meticulous planning and preparation have gone into creating the perfect conditions for an unforgettable experience. “The energy on the ground in Antarctica is palpable,” shares Riaan Aucamp, CEO of Ultima Antarctic Expeditions. “Our expert-led logistics team and hospitality staff have poured their expertise and dedication into making sure this debut season goes above and beyond guest expectations. We’ve implemented the highest biosecurity and safety protocols to ensure that our guests can explore Antarctica with peace of mind.”
With this strong foundation, guests can immerse themselves in an otherworldly environment where pristine landscapes, luxury accommodations, and adventurous expeditions come together seamlessly. Upon arrival, guests travel via a 5.5-hour direct flight from Cape Town, South Africa. Sharing this journey with scientists and researchers traveling to deep-field Antarctica, visitors get a glimpse of the logistical efforts that make such expeditions possible—a rare opportunity to witness the symbiosis between high-end adventure tourism and Antarctic scientific exploration.
The All-Inclusive Ultima Experience: From Flights to Fine Dining
Ultima’s expeditions are designed to be hassle-free and all-encompassing. Once guests arrive, every detail is taken care of: from return flights and transfers to top-tier accommodations and expertly curated expeditions. Dining is an integral part of the Ultima experience, with meals crafted to reflect both the adventurous and sophisticated nature of these expeditions. Every culinary experience is designed to be memorable, turning meals into highlights of the journey.
Introducing Ultima Oasis Camp: Luxury Amidst the Antarctic Wilderness
This season marks the debut of the Ultima Oasis Camp, situated in the Schirmacher Oasis—a rare ice-free region surrounded by stunning polar landscapes. With its debut slated for late November, Oasis Camp is already attracting discerning travelers eager to explore one of the world’s most secluded destinations. Open for a short summer season from November 2024 to February 2025, this camp caters to those seeking a blend of comfort, exclusivity, and natural beauty.
The camp, designed with an eco-conscious focus, accommodates only 14 guests at a time. Its architecture combines sleek aesthetics with sustainable functionality, offering private suites adaptable for couples, families, or solo travelers. These suites provide a level of comfort rarely found in polar regions, allowing guests to relax and rejuvenate in complete privacy.
At the heart of Oasis Camp’s culinary experience is Head Chef Jesse Wollenschlaeger, supported by a team of skilled chefs and sommeliers. Wollenschlaeger emphasizes the attention to detail and creativity that go into each meal, which are as thoughtfully prepared as they are delicious. “At Ultima, we elevate every moment,” he says. “Why not have our sommelier join you for a wine tasting while you take in breathtaking views of Antarctica? Every detail is curated to ensure that your journey is as extraordinary as the landscape around you.”
The camp’s amenities and experiences offer a level of comfort and indulgence that will redefine the concept of “luxury in the wild.” Guests can enjoy a gourmet picnic while overlooking the camp’s ice lake, embark on exploratory tours of ice walls and caves, or indulge in some award-winning sparkling wine—all amidst the pristine beauty of the Antarctic environment.
Adventures with a Purpose: Meaningful, Respectful Travel
Ultima’s CEO, Riaan Aucamp, emphasizes that the company’s mission goes beyond providing luxury in a remote location. “Our goal is to create an experience that’s not just luxurious, but also authentic and respectful of this extraordinary environment,” he explains. “We want to offer travelers a chance to connect with Antarctica in a meaningful way, one that leaves a positive impact on both them and the land they visit.”
The expeditions are designed to adhere to best practices established by the International Association of Antarctica Tour Operators (IAATO), ensuring that each journey is conducted in a manner that respects the environment. By creating opportunities for travelers to engage thoughtfully with the land and its wildlife, Ultima strives to cultivate an understanding and appreciation of Antarctica’s fragile ecosystem.
Booking Ahead: A High Demand for Expert-Led Expeditions
Ultima’s expeditions are in high demand, with many of the experiences already sold out. One of the most popular excursions this season is the “Mountains of Dronning Maud Land & Emperor Penguins” photographic expedition, led by renowned wildlife photographer David Sinclair. This exclusive trip quickly reached capacity, highlighting the popularity of these unique journeys and the growing interest in high-end Antarctic exploration.
Murray Williams, Head of Communications and Expedition Manager at Ultima, confirms that the 2025/2026 season will maintain similar dates and itinerary offerings. “We’re thrilled to see the level of interest for our expeditions, and we encourage guests to reach out early for available dates,” says Williams. “Next season’s expeditions will kick off in November 2025, and popular dates are already open for shortlisting.” For prospective guests, securing a spot early is essential, as these small-group journeys fill up quickly.
About Ultima Antarctic Expeditions
Ultima Antarctic Expeditions has carved out a distinctive place in the world of high-end travel, specializing in providing exceptional hospitality and adventure experiences in one of the planet’s most remote and pristine environments. With over 20 years of experience serving national Antarctic programs, Ultima has honed its expertise in logistics, biosecurity, and guest services, making it one of the most trusted names in Antarctic tourism. The company is committed to sustainability and eco-friendly practices, recognizing the importance of preserving Antarctica’s unique landscape for future generations.