Antarctic Circle In-Depth

Day 1: Arrive in Buenos Aires, Argentina

After touching down in Argentina’s cosmopolitan capital, you'll have the rest of the day to explore as you please. Savour the city's renowned steaks at a local restaurant or experience the lively rhythms of a tango show. Your high-class hotel this evening is included as part of your cruise package.

Day 2: Fly to Ushuaia, Argentina, and embark on your ship 

An early start this morning for your charter flight to the world’s most southerly city, nestled within Argentine Patagonia. On arrival you’ll head for lunch on a scenic catamaran cruise, as you sail on the Beagle Channel look out for sea lions, petrels and perhaps even your first albatross. Returning to Ushuaia port you will embark on your purpose-built expedition vessel and settle into your cabin, ready for the adventure ahead. 

Days 3 & 4: Crossing the Drake Passage 

This 600-mile-long strait between South America and the Antarctic Peninsula is among the most renowned bodies of water in the world. Notorious for its unpredictable nature, the Drake Passage can be fiercely turbulent or perfectly calm. As you traverse this captivating stretch of sea, head out on deck to spot stunning seabirds such as the wandering albatross and giant petrels with their astounding wingspans. 

These sea days also offer the opportunity to get familiar with your ship and ready for the excitement ahead. You can visit the Bridge, a prime spot for wildlife viewing, enjoy a soothing massage or attend an informative talk on the penguins you’ll soon encounter. Lectures will be held throughout these days at sea to bring you up to speed on Antarctica’s fascinating history, wildlife and geology, among other immersive topics.

You could also relax in the observation lounge, gazing over the waves and contemplating the rich history of this legendary passage. If the conditions on the Drake pick up, a couple of restful naps will help pass the time, and before you know it, you’ll finally be in Antarctica. 

Days 5 to 13: Exploring en route to the Antarctic Circle 

Daylight hours are long at this time of year, so your ship’s Captain and Expedition Leader should be able to maximise your time. Nine full days on the White Continent also give you ample opportunities to explore. In fact, there will be plenty of chances to immerse yourself in the spirit of history’s most daring explorers as your ship moves south, aiming to cross the legendary Antarctic Circle. 

The flexible schedule and state-of-the-art ship allow you to venture deeper and explore further, embracing the unexpected – whether it's watching whales surface alongside the ship, walking among thousands of Adélie and gentoo penguins, taking an evening zodiac cruise under the stunning midnight sun, or discovering an uncharted cove. Yet while the wildlife and landscapes are breathtaking, it's the ice that truly defines Antarctica. You'll get an up-close and personal encounter with it, from island-sized bergs to towering glaciers interspersed by the delicate, nearly invisible layers just beginning to freeze. 

One day, you’ll perhaps kayak alongside statuesque ice arches or zodiac cruise in search of seals and blue-eyed shags. The next, you could feel the thrill of the ship crunching through the pack ice. Everywhere you go, Antarctica will offer countless photogenic moments, and you'll be able to enjoy expert guidance on improving your skills from the onboard National Geographic photography expert. During the journey, the professionals in the expedition team will also continue to enrich your experience with plenty of lectures and opportunities for learning while your skilled Captain safely weaves through the near-frozen waters.

Days 14 & 15: At sea on the Drake Passage 

Wave farewell to Antarctica and the ship will begin to navigate back to the southernmost tip of South America. En route, you’ll pass where the Atlantic and Pacific Oceans meet. 

During these two days at sea, spend some time sifting through your photographs and revelling in the memories you made. The educational program will also continue to enthral guests hungry for further knowledge of this spectacular region. A final celebratory dinner allows you to say goodbye properly to newfound friends. 

Day 16: Disembark in Ushuaia and return to Buenos Aires

Today, you will disembark the ship in Ushuaia before taking your included charter flight from this Argentinean port city back to Buenos Aires. From here continue your journey onwards, either on further travels or home. 

Please Note: This itinerary is for guidance only, as each voyage will vary depending on ice and weather conditions as well as taking advantage of impromptu wildlife opportunities.