Antarctic Explorer in Style

Day 1: Ushuaia

Ushuaia, Argentina is the southernmost city in the world. The city has grown over the past few years, and now has a population of more than 70,000 people, yet it has retained an easy going and accessible feel. With the sea to the south and mountains to the north, it is a spectacular departure point for your Antarctic cruise. If you arrive early, you can spend some time in the nearby Tierra del Fuego National Park, visit the many boutique shops and cafes in Ushuaia and sample delicious Argentinian wines and barbecues before you leave for your expedition to Antarctica.

Day 2: Embarkation 

Embarkation will occur in the late afternoon and on departure, your vessel will sail down the historic Beagle Channel. This famous channel transects the Tierra del Fuego archipelago in the extreme south of South America. There is inevitably an air of excitement as you depart as the next time you see land you'll be in the world's most southern continent!

Days 3 - 4: At Sea

We always hope for a smooth sailing but as the Drake is unpredictable and always changing, it's best to prepare yourself for potentially rough water. You'll spend the first couple of days getting to know your shipmates and we'll provide you with safety briefings and insights into what excitement lies ahead.

Days 5 - 8: Antarctic Peninsula & South Shetland Islands

When the Antarctic Convergence is left in our wake and the first sight of land on the Antarctic Peninsula is spotted, it feels as if it is the true beginning of your Antarctic expedition.

This region has long captivated the attention of explorers and travellers alike and you will immediately appreciate why this is. Every visit to Antarctica, we witness something new or unexpected, and your expedition will be unlike any other - creating a unique, personal experience. Each day, we will take Zodiac excursions from the ship to explore bays, channels and landing sites. Wildlife is always at the forefront of our minds: visits to penguin rookeries, scouting for humpback and minke whales and searching for a number of the southern seal species, including the cunning leopard seal.

The majesty of the Antarctic Peninsula's mountains will captivate you, as you scramble up snowy pathways to vantage points offering you 360 degree views of your surroundings. One of these in particular, at Orne Harbour, gives the opportunity to visit a chinstrap penguin colony located high up on a ridge. Here you can choose between going for a mountain hike or spending time sitting quietly on a pebbled beach, enjoying the antics of curious penguins. If you're feeling extra adventurous, you might consider participating in the Polar Plunge swim.  You will forge indelible memories such as noisy penguins squabbling over prized pebbles or the boom and crack of a calving glacier in Neko Harbour. Carefully crafted by your Expedition Team, every day will be different and guaranteed to entertain and educate you about this wonderful part of the world.

Days 9 - 10: At Sea 

Travelling back across the Drake Passage allows you some final opportunities to enjoy the crisp Antarctic air, spend time on deck scouting for seabirds and whales or enjoying a few final presentations by your Expedition Team.

Day 11: Disembarkation 

You will arrive in Ushuaia in the morning allowing for you to either continue your adventure elsewhere on land or catch flights home.

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.