What is included in the education component of the trip?

Welcome to your Antarctic classroom, a mandatory educational program that integrates experiential polar learning into the voyage to inspire future sustainability leaders. The program is divided into three phases: 

• Pre-Voyage: This includes three live webinars, enrolment in the Ocean Youth Academy’s Polar Oceans Course, and a 1:1 online meeting with a mentor to develop an individual student project. Students also receive an intro pack with books and a custom Antarctic Sustainability Immersion Journal 

• On Voyage: Students participate in data collection and citizen science initiatives, 1:1 mentoring, and skill-building workshops such as public speaking & presentation building, nautical navigation, resume writing, and photo/video editing. Each student will have a focus question they will be in charge of answering throughout the course of their journey, following the stages of the scientific method / design thinking. The journey concludes with students delivering a 5–7-minute final presentation of their project results to all guests. 

• Post-Voyage: Following the trip, students receive a mentorship review call, career and university application guidance, and access to the Terra Nova Student Alumni Network. The entire program is IB-aligned, connecting activities to learning outcomes in subjects like Biology, Geography, and Theory of Knowledge. If students took part in any or all Duke of Edinburgh programing, they will have follow-up support from the Ocean Youth Academy staff to make sure all components and requirements were met.  

For students, the price is $1,495 USD and is paid in addition to the cost of the tour. 
For parents & guardians (anyone traveling with or alongside the student) , the fee is $895 USD, paid in addition to the cost of the tour, which includes the onboard program as well as 12-months access to Ocean Youth Academy's Polar Oceans course. 

Is the trip IB-aligned?

The program is IB-aligned, meaning its framework s structured to support the international Baccalaureate learner profile and specific subject areas like ESS and CAS. 

How many hours per day will students be required to do classroom work onboard?

There isn’t a fixed “school schedule,” but the Antarctic Classroom is a blended experience of structured learning, workshops, hands-on research, reflection time, and project work integrated into the expedition itinerary. Students should expect: 

• Workshops and presentations scheduled throughout the day 

• Reflection and project time both during sea crossings and onboard activities 

• Time outside of structured learning to work on assignments and projects 

The experience is immersive rather than strictly classroom-hour counted. 

Who is eligible and how do I apply?

The program is designed for senior high school students in years 9-12 (typically aged 14-18) who have a demonstrated interest in science, leadership or sustainability. 

Are there scholarships available?

Yes! In 2026, the Uili Lousi Tongan Scholarship will be providing a fully funded program placement for one Tongan student to ensure Pacific voices are represented in climate leadership. 

In 2027 scholarships will be available for global students to apply for, granted by Ocean Youth Academy.  

Can I complete/continue my Duke of Edinburgh (DoE) award with you?

Yes! Through a partnership with Ocean Youth Academy, students can complete DoE requirements during the voyage 

• New Participants: You can start your journey with OYA as your official Award Centre to complete Skills, Volunteering, Physical, and your Adventurous journey or Gold Project for a fee of $500 USD (plus standard DoE registration fees) 

• Existing Participants: If you are already enrolled elsewhere, you can have sections of this program count towards your award. These sections will be decided upon after enrollment, and  formally assessed and signed off upon completion. This costs $250 USD (for the 1 section and $50 USD for each additional section). 

What cabin can I stay in with my parents? What about if I am travelling with my dad/mom only? 

The St Helena offers various arrangements for families: 

• Travelling with both parents: A triple occupancy cabin is ideal, as it can be shared by two adults and one student 

• Travelling with one parent: You may book a quad-occupancy cabin, where you and your parent will be paired with another parent–student duo of the same gender. This option is available only for same-gender parent–student pairs. 

• Interconnecting options: There are interconnecting cabins available in the Twin Odyssey class for families who want linked but separate spaces. Please note that all shared accommodations must follow same-gender occupancy rules; mixed-gender groups (such as mother and son) must choose a twin cabin or separate cabins. 

If I am travelling alone, what cabin type should I book? 

Students travelling without parents and under school supervision have two main accommodation options: 

• Shared student cabins: You can book a spot in a triple or quad occupancy cabin, which will be shared with other students on a same-gender basis 

•  Single cabins: For those preferring privacy, single occupancy cabins are available. 

Can you help with the pre-post arrangements? 

Terra Nova Expeditions does not handle international flights. However, TNE has recommended  partners who can provide logistical support including: internal flights within Argentina/ and hotel arrangements if you share your specific requirements. While you’re welcome to register your interest, a designated pre-voyage hotel for the group will be confirmed, with full details and pricing available in February 2026. 

What onboard activities can I participate in during the voyage?

Off-ship adventures take centre stage; daily landings, hikes and Zodiac cruises but there are also extensive onboard opportunities: 

• Workshops & Skill building: Participate in photography and video storytelling, presentation & public speaking, learn to drive a Zodiac or attend a session on astronomy, navigation, and knot tying. 

• Science & Research: With an onboard science lab you can work with experts on data collection, processing and results, all while working through the scientific method on your own question of interest!  

• Leisure & Social: Enjoy movie nights, game nights, ship-wide scavenger hunts, and “Talking Story” evening sessions with the expedition team. 

• Wellness: The ship features two jacuzzies, a gym and offers onboard yoga sessions. 

• Adventure : Students have access to kayaking, snowshoeing, and trekking activities (subject to weather conditions) alongside an expert expedition team. There may even be a chance to take a polar plunge into the icy cold Antarctic water.  

What activities can students do on their free time? 

Outside scheduled educational sessions, students can enjoy: 

• Expedition team-led activities (film nights, discussions, photo workshops, game nights) 

• Wildlife watching and deck viewing 

• Social spaces and lounges for reading or project work 

• Gym and jacuzzi facilities on the St Helena 

• Personal free time to journal, work on projects, read, or relax with peers 

This blend of structured activity and free time ensures both learning and memorable expedition experiences. 

How are students supervised, and what are the safety standards? 

Every voyage is led by polar professionals including qualified guides, educators, and professional lecturers. Although these professionals are in charge of safety and expedition success, overall supervision will be expected from the parent, teacher, or guardian over all the students they are traveling with. For students not accompanied by a parent or guardian, their school will designate a teacher or lecturer to join the departure, and that person will be designated to supervise. 

Is there medical support onboard? 

Yes! the St Helena carries the latest medical equipment and always has an onboard doctor and medical clinic available for you. Additionally, the Expedition Team is 100% trained and certified if wilderness first aid and medical emergencies.  

I get seasick. How can I manage it during the trip? 

Not to worry! In addition to traditional remedies such as armbands, pills, and stickers that you can bring, we also provide over-the-counter medications onboard. St Helena also offers a world-first solution called See-LEVEL, a virtual reality headset designed to combat motion sickness without medication. Effective on over 90% of users, with symptoms reversing in just 12 minutes! You can hire a headset for $55 per 10-hour session. (Complimentary for guests in premium, deluxe, and suite cabins). 

What study supplies do I need to bring? (laptop / paper / pens etc) 

For the Antarctic Classroom, students will participate in structured learning, field-based research, workshops, and project work throughout the voyage. We recommend that all students bring with them: 

• A laptop or tablet for research, writing, editing, and building presentations (keynote or PowerPoint should be installed before joining) Other important applications TBA.  

• Notebooks / pens / pencils for taking notes during workshops and reflections. ‘Write in the rain’ notebook is a great option for taking out into the field.  

• Any personal reference materials you find helpful, guidebooks, journals, etc.  

Will the Wi-Fi be good enough to do research? (will I need Wi-Fi onboard)? 

Basic Wi-Fi is available onboard and best suited for light tasks like email or simple research browsing. If you need more bandwidth (for heavy research or uploading large files), expect that faster Wi-Fi may require a prepaid data purchase or upgrade. 

Are there any additional costs while onboard?  

Most of the key services are included, but some extras may incur costs: 

Included in fare: 

• Daily meals and snacks 

• Basic Wi-Fi (upgrade available) 

• Tips/gratuities and core activities 

• Soft drinks during meals  

• Coffee/tea 24hrs 

• Adventure activities: Kayaking, Snowshoeing, Camping, Hiking, Polar Plunge 

Possible additional costs: 

• Wi-Fi upgrades for faster access 

• Boutique / gift shop purchases 

• Laundry 

• Drinks outside of mealtimes (soft drinks)  

• Personal expenses not specified under inclusions 

What is the alcohol policy onboard? 

Terra Nova’s Classic Antarctic voyages include house beer and wine served during designated meal times for guests of legal drinking age (21+). Alcohol is not permitted for guests under 21, and any premium drinks or beverages outside meal times are not included in the fare and would incur an additional cost. 

How does the ship minimise its environmental impact? 

Through the EARTH Sustainability Program, the ship uses efficient engines, water-saving systems, and reusable water stations to reduce its footprint. 

What is the “Polar Oceans Course” donation option for parents? 

The Polar Oceans Course is a 10-section virtual expedition online course that will prepare all participants, parents and students alike, for Antarctica. The course covers everything from Antarctica’s charismatic megafauna to topics like conservation and climate change. Parents pay a fee that includes 12-month access to the course, and they can choose to take this course themselves or donate their access to a student in an underserved community.