Antarctic Explorer Refined

Day 1: Arrive into Ushuaia, Argentina

On arrival in Ushuaia you will be met and transferred to your included hotel for the night.

Ushuaia is the southernmost city in the world. With the Beagle Channel stretching away to the south and snow-dusted mountains to the north, it’s a spectacular departure point for your Antarctic cruise. If you arrive early, you might like to spend time in the nearby picturesque Tierra del Fuego National Park or exploring the quirky Maritime Museum in the city’s old prison.

Day 2: Embarkation Day

After spending your free time exploring this morning, you will embark on your ship in the late afternoon and set sail down the Beagle Channel. Get out on deck with your camera and binoculars as this is a great place to get your first wildlife sightings. As you head out into the Drake Passage tonight, you'll be in the world's southernmost continent the next time you see land! 

Days 3 & 4: Crossing the Drake Passage 

As you sail across the infamous waters of the Drake Passage, your days will be kept busy with briefings to prepare you for the adventure ahead, along with educational lectures on the wildlife, ice and history of Antarctica. 

Make time to head out on deck if conditions allow, as this is the perfect spot to photograph the incredible seabirds cruising around the ship, including huge albatrosses with their vast wingspans and curious giant petrels. As you come to the end of the Drake, keep your eyes peeled for your first iceberg! 

Days 5 to 8: Exploring the Antarctic Peninsula and the South Shetland Islands

As you arrive in Antarctica, the exploration begins in earnest. Every day will be different, with your skilled Captain and Expedition Leader adjusting the plans according to the weather and ice conditions, along with impromptu wildlife opportunities. 

Your experienced Expedition Team will be on hand to help you explore and understand this jaw-dropping continent. During your time here you’ll head ashore to marvel at the cacophony of bustling penguin rookeries. You will also enjoy zodiac cruises, gliding between towering sculptural icebergs and looking for marine wildlife such as snoozing seals out on the ice or humpback whales feasting on krill. 

Those who have signed up in advance for optional activities such as kayaking or paddleboarding may get the chance to experience Antarctica from a uniquely serene water-level perspective. 

In the evening recaps your naturalist guides will expand on the wildlife behaviours you’ve seen that day and your Expedition Leader will talk through the Plan A for tomorrow morning. Spend any spare time you have out on the ship’s expansive decks, soaking up the incredible icy landscapes that surround you. 

Days 9 & 10: Crossing the Drake Passage 

As you bid Antarctica farewell you will head north back across the Drake Passage. Spend time on the deck watching for seabirds and enjoy the continuing educational program from your Expedition Team. It’s also a great time to start sorting through all your photos and reminiscing with your fellow adventurers about your spectacular experiences.

Day 11: Disembarkation in Ushuaia

You will arrive in Ushuaia in the morning, allowing you to continue your adventure on land or catch your flights home. A transfer back to the airport is included. 

NOTE: This itinerary is for guidance only as each voyage will vary depending on ice and weather conditions, and opportunities to see wildlife. Flexibility is key and all part of the adventure of an expeditionary cruise.