In search of the Antarctic Polar Circle

12 days - 11 nights

Day 1 - Ushuaia: Embarkation

In the afternoon, we embark from the port of Ushuaia to begin our adventure to Antarctica. We will complete a mandatory safety drill before setting sail. Our Antarctic expedition begins by sailing through the calm waters of the iconic Beagle Channel, named after the ship used by the famous Charles Darwin. This rugged strait divides southern Tierra del Fuego between Chile and Argentina and is the starting point for many expeditions that have traveled to Antarctica. As we head toward Drake Passage, we are accompanied by whales and dolphins heading south.

Days 2 to 3 - Crossing the Drake Passage, arriving at the South Shetland Islands

Sailing to Antarctica, we will cross the Drake Passage, the body of water that separates the Atlantic Ocean from the Pacific Ocean. The Drake Passage is famous for its strong westerly winds, known as the "Roaring Fifties," where weather conditions are highly changeable. This is a challenging voyage; our expedition vessels are prepared to navigate these latitudes, specifically built with stabilizers, powerful engines, and manned by highly qualified crews for this Antarctic challenge. Experienced sailors consider the Drake Passage a lifetime achievement, a special challenge. These two days are ideal to prepare for our arrival on the White Continent. Our expedition team will provide us with the necessary information and guide us through future exploration plans, such as how to observe wildlife and how to bioprotect clothing and equipment, which is a fundamental process for maintaining the fragile ecology of Antarctica. There will also be talks on exploration, wildlife, geology, and glaciology of Antarctica.

On the third day, we will cross the Antarctic Convergence. The mercury plummets as we sail south into Antarctic waters, an abrupt cooling that marks the intersection of Antarctic waters with the warmer Atlantic and Pacific oceans. As the sea cools, wildlife multiplies; these are some of the most biologically productive waters in the world, where we may observe petrels, albatrosses, and possibly penguins, seals, and whales in abundance. Weather permitting, we may land in the South Shetland Islands (a small but spectacular archipelago north of the Antarctic Peninsula) on the afternoon of our second day in Drake Passage, marking the beginning of our exploration of the Last Continent.

Days 4 to 9- Antarctic Peninsula & Antarctic Polar Circle

Without a fixed Antarctica itinerary, this voyage offers adventurous travelers the chance to experience Antarctica as it was meant to be: flowing with the wind, sea, and ice, and taking advantage of the best opportunities Mother Nature provides. This voyage departs during the first half of the brief Antarctic summer, when the sea ice is at its peak, giving us ample opportunities to explore the frigid wilderness of the last continent. Our exact route will be subject to careful planning by the expedition leader and captain; however, our goal will be to visit diverse locations that showcase the very best of this astonishingly beautiful region.

Marvel at massive icebergs and vast glaciers on a Zodiac cruise through Paradise Bay. Connect with penguins tenderly guarding their precious eggs and fiercely defending their nests on Cuverville Island. Watch icefalls tumble into the crystal-blue ocean during a hike among the active glaciers at Neko Harbour. Experience Antarctica of yesteryear in historic huts like Damoy Point, painstakingly restored and open to all. Feel the spray of a humpback whale on a Zodiac safari through Wilhelmina Bay. Marvel at the stunning scenery on a cruise through the Lemaire Channel. Watch city-sized tabular icebergs silently pass by the ship in the Antarctic Sound. Wherever we go on the Antarctic Peninsula, endemic wildlife, fascinating history, and stunning natural beauty abound.

At this time of year, expect to see penguins carefully caring for their furry chicks while their mates frantically forage at sea. As the snow melts, opportunities for land-based hiking increase. Antarctic fur seals are beginning to arrive at their summer feeding grounds, and humpback whale numbers are increasing as more of these gentle giants reach the end of their long migration. With luck, we may even catch a glimpse of their calves. There is no fixed itinerary on this trip, allowing our onboard staff to maximize the experience for everyone. While our suggestions above are only possible routes and landings, we can be confident that this will be the ultimate Antarctic experience.

Days 10 to 11 - At Sea: Crossing the Drake Passage northward

Finally, we will depart Antarctica and spend two days at sea heading north, crossing back through the infamous Drake Passage to the welcoming shores of the Beagle Channel and Ushuaia, Argentina. During our voyage, various onboard activities will allow our guests to reflect on their journey. Relax with an expertly crafted cocktail in the Nordic Bar with new friends, enjoy the knowledge and passion of our Expedition Team during talks in the Shackleton Lounge, or simply watch the albatrosses fly by as we journey north. During your final evening on board, join the Captain and officers for a farewell cocktail reception, followed by a photo and video presentation by our onboard photographer—the perfect opportunity to relive your Antarctic adventure.

Day 12 - Disembarkation in Ushuaia

On the morning of the final day of our voyage, we will arrive back at the pier in Ushuaia, Argentina. Trees, grass, and a bustling city may seem strange after the white wilderness of Antarctica! After a hearty breakfast, it's time to bid a fond farewell to the crew and the Albatross expedition team and descend the gangway back to dry land with the memories of an unforgettable journey.