Antarctic Classroom
A once-in-a-lifetime leadership and sustainability journey for senior high school students
From the Classroom to the Ends of the Earth:
Inspiring the next generation of climate and sustainability leaders.
The Antarctic Classroom is a once-in-a-lifetime sustainability and leadership journey where selected Year 9–12 students will learn, research, and reflect alongside scientists and mentors aboard the historic expedition vessel, St Helena.
This is more than travel it’s a launchpad for future leaders, building the confidence, curiosity, and global perspective universities and employers look for.
This program combines:
Hands-on sustainability learning and live research
Mentoring in corporate sustainability and leadership
Climate change and sustainability presentation skills training
Career and university preparation with Lee Stewart, CEO of ESG Strategy
IB-Aligned Expedition: Activities connect directly to IB learning outcomes, including inquiry, scientific thinking, ethics, global contexts, and CAS. Students engage in field-based research, reflective work, citizen science, and environmental analysis that support IB Biology, ESS, Geography, Mathematics, and TOK
Duke of Edinburgh Opportunity: Students may complete Skills, Volunteering, Adventurous Journey, or the Gold Project (Residential) during the program
SUSTAINABILITY
Climate change and sustainability presentation skills training
YOUTH
Strengthen presentation and interview confidence
ADVENTURE
Career and university preparation in Antarctic setting
SCIENCE
Hands-on sustainability learning and live research
PROGRAM STRUCTURE
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Three live group webinars led by Lee Stewart which will cover the following topics:
“What to Expect” orientation, safety, and sustainability fundamentals
Climate Change and Sustainability presentation skills training fundamental
Science and wildlife briefings from onboard scientists
Participation in Ocean Youth Academy’s Polar Oceans Course, aligned with Next Generation Science Standards.
1:1 Online Pre-Voyage meeting with an onboard mentor – expectations, your goals and outcomes you want from this program
During this session, you will talk about your individual project that you will work on during the expedition, and start laying out a plan (see student project plan doc for details)
Intro pack:
Includes Copies of physical books and a recommended reading and Netflix Documentaries
Your own custom Antarctica Sustainability Immersion Journal - A Personal Learning & Reflection Companion for Students designed specifically for the voyage.
Pre-Voyage Group Dinner in Sydney late November – Optional
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Day 1: Departure from Ushuaia, Argentina
Embarkation and Orientation: Begin your adventure in Ushuaia, the world's southernmost city, nestled on the edge of the Beagle Channel. After boarding your expedition ship, settle into your cabin and attend a welcome orientation. This session will cover safety protocols, introduce the expedition team, and outline the exciting journey ahead.
Highlights:
Meet fellow students and mentors while taking in the breathtaking views as the ship sets sail through the scenic Beagle Channel towards the open sea.
The Beagle Channel is one of the most biodiverse segments of Patagonia, leaving an excellent chance for wildlife encounters at the end of the world!
Day 2-3: Crossing the Drake Passage - Southbound!
Educational Programs and Wildlife Watching: Brace yourself for the Drake Passage, known as being one of the most wild and unpredictable passages of water on the planet. This is a time to get to know your shipmates and participate in various onboard educational programs led by expert polar guides and scientists. Learn about Antarctic wildlife, the history of exploration, and climate science through interactive lectures and workshops led by the expedition team.
Highlights:
Meet your mentors - students can sign up for individual menthip 1 on 1’s
Photography workshop - photo and video gear familiarization and prep
Student project orientation and creating a game plan for project execution
Gear distribution
Duke of Edinburgh Award session
Keep your eyes peeled for albatrosses and petrels gliding alongside the ship, and if lucky, spot your first iceberg on the horizon.
Ship Scavenger Hunt (fun way to get students oriented onboard)
Journal workshop
Day 4-7: Antarctic Peninsula
Exploring Glaciers, Icebergs, and Wildlife: These days are packed with adventure as you explore the Antarctic Peninsula. Each day, if the weather allows, there will be opportunities to get off the ship and explore the Antarctic by foot and sea. You’ll venture to different areas along the Antarctic Peninsula with shore landings and Zodiac cruises, led by your expert guides and experiencing the wonders this continent has to offer. Each evening, gather for a debrief and engaging presentations about the day's discoveries.
Highlights:
Daily check-ins with program leaders and mentors
Contribute to data collection in citizen science initiatives throughout excursions
Work on your project plan - collecting data, testing hypothesis and recording results
Partner with other students to create video content as part of your final project
Witness the majesty of towering glaciers, watch for humpback whales, and get close to playful penguins and various species of seals. Onboard there may be activities hosted by the expedition team, but the focus will be on adventuring off the ship!
Workshops (depending on weather) - if onboard, participants will take part in skill building workshops - knot tying, navigation, Astronomy, Resume Writing, Presentation Skills, Photo/video editing etc etc
Movie nights
Talking Story’ - sessions in the evening with expedition team - good time for Q&A and getting to know the epic team onboard
Game nights
Learn to drive a Zodiac
Day 8-9: Farewell to Antarctica
The Drake Passage - Northbound: As the expedition draws to a close, enjoy one last morning of exploration. The final landing will be a chance to soak in the beauty and tranquility of Antarctica one last time. In the afternoon, begin the journey back across the Drake Passage.These days on the ‘Drake’ will be filled with lectures, workshops, and a variety of reflection activities with your group, to wrap up your voyage.
Highlights:
Photo and Video editing workshop
1 on 1 meetings with mentors
Project wrap up and video content processed
Final presentations to all guests onboard
Includes project results, video, and voyage experience recap
Should be a 5-7 minute presentation, utilizing all the skills and experiences gained over the course of the voyage
Duke of Edinburgh wrap up
Journal workshop
Science Fair
Reflect on your incredible experiences and share stories with new friends during a special farewell dinner onboard and captain’s celebration .
Day 10: Return to Ushuaia
Disembarkation and Goodbye: Arrive back in Ushuaia and disembark after breakfast. Say goodbye to the expedition team and your fellow adventurers, now friends, as you prepare for your journey home or onward travel.
Highlights:
Leave with unforgettable memories, new knowledge, and a profound appreciation for the fragile beauty of Antarctica.
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Complimentary one-on-one review call with your mentor
Career and university application guidance
Support preparing presentations and stories from the voyage
Access to our Terra Nova Student Alumni Network – Access to events, newsletters
MEET YOUR MENTOR
Lee Stewart
Global sustainability leader, author, and mentor trained by Al Gore, guiding students to turn their Antarctic adventure into realworld opportunities and future impact.
“Our goal is to help every student return from Antarctica as a confident, capable, and compassionate leader for the planet.” — Lee Stewart, CEO, ESG Strategy
Build a personal Antarctica story for university or job applications
Develop leadership and communication skills
Learn directly from scientists and sustainability experts
Strengthen presentation and interview confidence
Join the Terra Nova Student
Alumni Network
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Spacious, newly updated cabins, with ocean views. Modern and well appointed she offers best in class accomodation. All cabins and suites have ensuite bathrooms, and some interconnecting cabins are available in the Twin Odyssey class. Triple and quadruple cabins are perfect for solo travelers or are ideal for families or groups seeking shared accommodations during polar expeditions. Single cabins are also available with no supplement.
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Every day aboard the St Helena balances hands-on adventure with structured learning. Students take part in guided lectures, field research, and interactive workshops: all designed to build leadership, resilience, and real-world skills.
To help students follow their passions, the expedition also offers elective training sessions, led by experienced guides, scientists, and mentors. These practical and creative electives allow each student to shape their own Antarctic learning journey.
Elective Options May Include:
Photography/Video & Storytelling
Snowcraft & Survival Skills
Presentation & Media Skills
Job interview prep: How to use this experience to help you in your during your next steps
Kayaking & Expedition Safety
First Aid & Safety Awareness
Cooking & Nutrition in the Field
Art & Creative Reflection
Science Lab & Marine Biology
Climate Change & Sustainability
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Guests can look forward to expert-led excursions, including zodiac cruises, guided landings, sailing, camping, and kayaking — bringing you up close to awe-inspiring landscapes and extraordinary wildlife. With a dedicated team of knowledgeable expedition leaders, naturalists, and seasoned crew members, the St Helena promises an unforgettable exploration experience that blends adventure with superior hospitality.
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Every voyage is led by an experienced team of polar professionals many with over 20 years’ expedition experience including qualified guides, educators, and onboard doctors. All staff hold current Working with Children Checks and complete comprehensive safety and safeguarding training.
The St Helena meets full international safety standards and carries the latest navigation and medical equipment, ensuring a safe, supportive, and inspiring environment for every student.
This directly addresses parent concerns around supervision, safety, and wellbeing.
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With capacity for 150 but carrying just 98 guests, St Helena blends traditional seafaring heritage with a contemporary expedition experience. Her recent refit in 2022 has introduced refined touches throughout, from modern cabin furnishings to enhanced public spaces, creating an atmosphere of modern comfort and style. Built in the UK the St Helena is a rugged, versatile expedition platform and truly unique in the Antarctic world.
Perfectly suited for adventurous voyages, her ice-strengthened hull, deep draft, and powerful engines make her ideal for navigating the remote and rugged coastlines of Antarctica, the South Atlantic, and beyond. Her open decks, generous observation lounges, and expedition-ready features provide an ideal platform for wildlife encounters, landings, and immersive exploration.
With a soul steeped in maritime history and a future set for discovery, St Helena offers a rare opportunity to explore the world’s most extraordinary destinations in style, safety, and comfort.
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Her open decks, generous observation lounges, and expedition-ready features provide an ideal platform for wildlife encounters, landings, and immersive exploration.
Inviting social spaces and large panoramic observation areas.
A relaxed, welcoming atmosphere with an expert team onboard
Full suite of adventure options
Two Jacuzzis, gym and spa.
Full science lab set up, and active science taking place with our resident expert science team.
YOUR FLOATING CLASSROOM
MEET YOUR MENTOR
Amanda Hunter
Amanda is the Founder and CEO of Ocean Youth Academy. A non-profit organization founded by a group of polar expedition guides, marine biologists, and outdoor educators who have first hand experience with the transformative power of immersive education and connection with nature.
“Education inspires awareness, experience fuels action. If we want the next generation to protect our planet, we must give youth around the globe the opportunity to see what’s at stake."
- Amanda Hunter, Founder & CEO, Ocean Youth Academy
ANTARCTIC ITINERARY
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Board the expedition vessel in the afternoon, where you'll meet your crew and fellow travellers. After settling into your cabin, the ship sets off along the picturesque Beagle Channel. Relish your first evening at sea as the southernmost tip of South America disappears from view.
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Start your Antarctic adventure with a crossing of the Drake Passage, a vast stretch of open ocean that marks the Antarctic Convergence, where nutrient-rich waters sustain a vibrant ecosystem.
While at sea, students experience a mix of expert-led talks on Antarctica’s history, wildlife, and geology, hands-on workshops, and adventure activities such as navigation sessions, kayaking, and snowshoeing safety briefings. They can head to the open decks or bridge to spot albatrosses, petrels, and even whales. Each day also includes guided reflection, film nights, creative storytelling, and peer-led discussions—blending fun, friendship, and purpose-driven learning.
By the end of Day 3, the first sighting of icebergs and snow-capped peaks will signal your arrival at the South Shetland Islands.
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The core of the journey unfolds as you explore the Antarctic Peninsula and South Shetland Islands, with each day offering a blend of landings, zodiac cruises, and optional adventure activities.
Highlights Include:
Kayaking Among Icebergs: Paddle through tranquil waters, drifting past seals resting on ice floes and penguins diving in for a swim. Snowshoeing Adventures: Strap on snowshoes to explore pristine trails and reach panoramic viewpoints, offering breathtaking vistas of glaciers and peaks. Penguin Colonies: Visit expansive rookeries of Gentoo, Chinstrap, and Adélie Penguins, watching their amusing behaviours as they care for their chicks or brave the frigid waters. Wildlife Encounters: Spot Weddell, crabeater, and leopard seals lounging on ice or hunting in the water, with Minke and humpback whales often seen feeding nearby.
With over 500 diverse landing sites along the Antarctic Peninsula, no two voyages are ever the same. Our expert team crafts each expedition based on conditions, weather, and opportunities for the most remarkable encounters. As passenger vessel traffic has increased in recent years, competition for landing sites has intensified—but our deep knowledge of this pristine region ensures you’ll embark on true exploratory journeys, venturing beyond the crowds.
Guided by our experienced crew, you’ll navigate breathtaking ice-choked channels, witness towering glaciers, and encounter extraordinary wildlife in one of the most remote places on Earth. This is not just a cruise—it’s a genuine expedition where spontaneity and discovery define every day.
Join us for an adventure where the unknown awaits, and every landing is a moment of exploration.
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As the expedition heads back north, there’s an opportunity for a final landing or zodiac cruise. Weather and ice conditions permitting, explore destinations like Brown Bluff, where towering cliffs and an Adélie penguin colony await, or Paulet Island, home to historic sites and abundant wildlife.
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Relive your adventures as you cross the Drake Passage, keeping an eye out for seabirds and whales along the way. Take part in final lectures or workshops, and enjoy a celebratory dinner with your fellow students as you reflect on the unforgettable journey.
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Arrive back in Ushuaia in the early morning. After breakfast, disembark with cherished memories of an epic Antarctic expedition and new stories to tell.
Please note: The above itinerary is a general guideline. Our precise route and activities will be adjusted to optimize wildlife viewing and adapt to prevailing weather and ice conditions. The Captain and/or Expedition Leader will make necessary changes to ensure the best possible experience. A daily program will be provided onboard. Flexibility is essential for a successful expedition.
Pricing for our December 9, 2026 Classroom onboard St Helena:
USD 14,650 per person
Double Occupancy Cabin
USD 12,110 per person
Double Occupancy Cabin
USD 11,220 per person
Double Occupancy Cabin
USD 10,140 per person
Double Occupancy Cabin
USD 9,380 per person
Single Occupancy Cabin
USD 9,380 per person
Double Occupancy Cabin (Interconnecting Options)
USD 8,790 per person
Triple Occupancy Cabin
USD 7,990 per person
Quad Occupancy Cabin
Terms and Conditions:
Quad cabins can be shared as a parent and student combination, in which case you will be paired with another parent and student in a same-gender configuration. Alternatively, they can be occupied by four students traveling without a parent or companion, shared on a same-gender basis.
Triple cabins can be shared by two adults accompanying a student, or one adult with two students from the same group in a same-gender configuration. They can also be occupied by three students traveling without a parent or companion, shared on a same-gender basis.
Educational component: For participants of the Antarctic Classroom Program, a mandatory add-on applies: USD 1,495 for students and USD 895 for parents.
The Duke of Edinburgh Award is available as an optional add-on.
For more details, please see our Add-ons section.
Travel arrangements: We will have a preferred pre-tour hotel for the group, with details and pricing available in February 2025. For internal flights and pre-tour arrangements within Argentina and South America, please share your requirements, and a member of our team will be in touch. Please note that we do not handle international flights.
This voyage forms part of Terra Nova’s EARTH Sustainability Program: advancing real-world learning and youth engagement in environmental leadership.
Terra Nova Expeditions
EARTH Sustainability Program
represents the following guiding principles:
Education for Exploration
Action for Climate
Reducing our Footprint
Together for Communities
Healthy Oceans
Our EARTH Sustainability Program is more than a pledge. It’s a call to action. From planning polar journeys to guiding guests in Antarctica, environmental responsibility is at the heart of everything we do.
Aligned with the UN Sustainable Development Goals, we focus on key initiatives to protect these pristine environments for generations to come. Onboard, we reduce impact with efficient engines, water-saving systems, anti-fouling hulls, and reusable water stations.
The Uili Lousi
Tongan Scholarship to Antarctica
Honouring the legacy of Pacific climate leader Uili Lousi, this scholarship supports a Tongan student to join the 2026 expedition, ensuring Pacific voices are represented in global climate leadership.
“I am the voice of the whales. I carry their song to you. When I swim with them and look them in the eye, I can see their pain. The ocean is changing. The climate is changing. This is why I am here to ask you for help." - Uili Lousi , Tongan Climate Advocate, Artist, & Cultural Custodian
Ready to book?
Be Part of the 2026
Student Expedition to Antarctica!
Eligibility:
Year 9–12 students (aged 14–18)
Demonstrated interest in sustainability, leadership, or science
Selection:
Written application and short video statement
Review and short online interview
Timeline:
Applications/Bookings open: December 2025
Applications close: End of January 2026
Course starts: September 2026
Voyages depart: December 9, 2026 and December 2, 2027
Expression of interest for voyages: November 29, 2026/March 19, 2027/December 11, 2027
Kindly be aware that guardians and participants are subject to different cruise rates.