Set sail from the edge of the world and venture deep into the icy realm of the South Shetland Islands and the Antarctic Peninsula. Here, glaciers spill slowly from high plateaus into the sea, colossal icebergs drift through silent bays, penguins gather in lively colonies across snowy shores, and whales surface in the frigid waters along the ice edge. Through daily Zodiac cruising, guided shore landings and optional kayaking excursions, you will not simply observe Antarctica from a distance, but step onto the continent itself and experience it from multiple perspectives. This is not a distant encounter with the White Continent. It is an immersive, multi layered expedition designed to bring you closer to Antarctica in every possible way.
Please note: some departures may include an additional day of exploration in the Antarctic Peninsula
Welcome to Ushuaia, the southernmost city in the world and the gateway to Antarctica. Nestled between the Andes Mountains and the Beagle Channel, this remote Patagonian port has long been the starting point for expeditions to the White Continent. Upon arrival, transfer independently to the designated hotel and check in. Today is an arrival and gathering day. You may choose to explore the waterfront, enjoy the crisp southern air, or simply rest in preparation for the journey ahead. All meals today are at your own expense.
After breakfast, we gather at the hotel and transfer as a group to the pier for embarkation. As the ship casts off and sails through the Beagle Channel, snowcapped peaks gradually fade into the distance and your Antarctic expedition officially begins. Your Expedition Team will conduct mandatory briefings and introduce the plans for the days ahead. As evening approaches, we head south toward the legendary Drake Passage.
We spend two days crossing the Drake Passage, the stretch of water that separates South America from Antarctica. During these days at sea, you will attend engaging presentations on Antarctic history, wildlife, geology and environmental stewardship. On deck, watch for wandering albatrosses and other seabirds that glide effortlessly alongside the ship. As we move farther south, temperatures drop and the first icebergs may appear on the horizon.
Upon arrival in the South Shetland Islands and the Antarctic Peninsula region, many travelers experience a profound sense of awe. Towering mountains rise directly from the sea, glaciers flow steadily into sheltered bays, and sculpted icebergs drift silently across calm waters. Few places on Earth remain as pristine and enduring as this.
Each day’s program is carefully crafted by your Expedition Team according to weather, sea and ice conditions. Antarctica never unfolds the same way twice, which makes every voyage a unique and personal experience.
Daily Zodiac excursions take you away from the ship and into glaciated bays, narrow channels and potential landing sites. Whether stepping ashore for a guided walk, visiting a research station, or observing thriving penguin colonies, each landing offers a new perspective on this extraordinary environment.
Wildlife encounters may include chinstrap, Adélie and gentoo penguins, Weddell and leopard seals resting on the ice, and whales such as humpbacks or minkes surfacing in the distance. Every Zodiac cruising reveals new details that keep your camera and your senses fully engaged.
We retrace our route across the Drake Passage toward South America. These 2 days offer time to reflect on your Antarctic experience, attend final presentations, review photographs and share stories with fellow travelers. Gradually, seabirds increase and temperatures rise as we approach the southern tip of the continent.
We arrive in Ushuaia in the early morning. After breakfast, disembarkation procedures take place and your Antarctic expedition concludes. The ice, the wildlife and the vast silence of the Seventh Continent remain with you long after the voyage ends.
Included in this voyage:
Excluded in this voyage:
