DURATION
11 DAYS
DIFFICULTY LEVEL
EASY
Antarctic Explorer: Discovering the 7th Continent
For centuries, Antarctica has remained the world’s most distinguished wilderness, beckoning those with a genuine appreciation for Earth’s last great frontier. This extraordinary expedition invites you to venture through the pristine landscapes of the South Shetland Islands and Antarctic Peninsula, beginning with your flight to Ushuaia – the world’s southernmost city – from the sophisticated streets of Buenos Aires.
In this remarkable domain, nature reigns supreme, orchestrating a performance that ensures each expedition remains uniquely yours. Here, you’ll experience the quiet sophistication of gliding through pristine waters in a Zodiac®, navigating between luminescent ice formations. Witness the fascinating social structures of penguin colonies as they fastidiously craft their nests, and traverse waters dotted with architectural ice formations, each sculpted by time and elements. The legendary Drake Passage crossing stands as a testament to your adventurous spirit, marking your entry into this exclusive realm.
Travel Advisory: While we maintain a carefully considered itinerary, the dynamic nature of polar conditions may necessitate refinements to our programme, always with an emphasis on maximising your experience of this extraordinary environment.
Day 1
Buenos Aires
You may arrive in Buenos Aires at any time during Day 1 of your itinerary. Upon arriving in this splendid city, known for its rich architecture and European heritage, you will independently transfer to your group hotel (pre-night hotel included in mandatory transfer package).
Day 2
Ushuaia, and Embarkation
After breakfast at the hotel, the group will transfer to the airport and board our private charter flight to Ushuaia, Argentina.
Upon arrival, you will have a little time to explore this quaint port town before heading to the pier.
Embarkation will occur in the late afternoon, after which 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. Expect an air of anticipation as you depart—the next time you’ll see land you’ll be in the world’s most southern continent!
Days 3 and 4
Crossing the Drake Passage
Prepare yourself for potentially rough water, but hope for a smooth sailing, as the Drake is unpredictable and always changing. You’ll spend these first days getting to know your shipmates while your Expedition Team provides safety briefings and insights into what excitement lies ahead.
Days 5 to 8
South Shetland Islands and Antarctic Peninsula
Once the Antarctic Convergence is left in our wake, you will truly begin your Antarctic adventure. It is perhaps the first sight of land itself that is embraced as the true beginning of any Antarctic expedition. You will begin to appreciate why this region has long captivated the attention of explorers and travelers alike. Every time we visit Antarctica, we witness something new or unexpected, which means that your expedition will be unlike any other—creating a unique, personal experience.
Each day, you will take Zodiac excursions from the ship to explore local bays, channels and landing sites. With wildlife always at the forefront of our minds, you will visit penguin rookeries, scout for humpback and minke whales, and search for a number of southern seal species, including the cunning leopard seal.
The majesty of the Antarctic Peninsula’s mountains will enchant as you scramble up snowy pathways to vantage points offering you 360° views of your surroundings. One of these in particular, in Danco Island, affords us the opportunity to visit a penguin colony high up on a ridge. Here, you’ll have the choice between hiking to the island’s summit or spending time sitting quietly on a pebbled beach, enjoying the antics of curious penguins. If you’re feeling extra adventurous, participating in the Polar Plunge swim is about as crazy as it gets!
Amid the serene silence of Antarctica, noisy interludes become indelible memories, such as penguins squabbling over prized pebbles, or the boom and crack of a calving glacier in Neko Harbour.
Each day will be different, having been carefully crafted by your Expedition Team to entertain and educate you about this wonderful part of the world.
Days 9 and 10
Crossing the Drake Passage
The journey back across the Drake Passage provides final opportunities to enjoy the crisp Antarctic air. Spend time on the deck, watching for seabirds and scouting for whales, enjoy presentations by your Expedition Team, or simply relax and reminisce about your experiences.
Day 11
Disembark in Ushuaia and Fly to Buenos Aires
You will arrive in Ushuaia in the morning, after breakfast. After disembarking, you will get a little taste of Patagonia, touring Tierra del Fuego National Park before transferring to the airport for the return group charter flight to Buenos Aires.
