Antarctica Peninsula

** ALL OUR SAFARIS ARE FULLY CUSTOMIZABLE TO FIT YOUR REQUIREMENTS AND SUIT YOUR TRAVEL DATES

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Day to Day Itinerary

Day 1: Arrival in Ushuaia.

Welcome to Ushuaia, the southernmost city on Earth and the gateway to your Antarctic adventure! Nestled between the rugged peaks of the Andes and the icy waters of the Beagle Channel, this remote outpost sets the stage for an unforgettable journey. Upon arrival at the airport, our dedicated staff will be there to warmly welcome you before escorting you to your hotel, ensuring a smooth and comfortable start to your expedition.

The remainder of the day is yours to explore Ushuaia, a lively port city brimming with history, culture, and adventure. Stroll along the scenic waterfront, where expedition vessels prepare for voyages to the White Continent, or wander through the bustling streets lined with cozy cafés and specialty shops. For a deeper insight into the region’s rich heritage and diverse wildlife, a visit to the Museo del Fin del Mundo is highly recommended. This fascinating museum showcases indigenous history, and maritime tales, offering a compelling introduction to the landscapes and ecosystems that await.

If time allows, Ushuaia offers a wealth of outdoor adventures catering to all interests and fitness levels. Embark on a scenic hike through the rugged landscapes of Tierra del Fuego National Park, where windswept forests, glacial valleys, and serene lakes provide a stunning backdrop. Alternatively, set sail on the legendary Beagle Channel for a chance to observe Sea Lions, Fur Seals, and colonies of Penguins in their natural habitat.  As the day winds down, indulge in Ushuaia’s diverse culinary scene, where local restaurants showcase the flavours of Patagonia. Savor succulent Patagonian lamb, slow roasted to perfection, or sample the region’s renowned Fuegian seafood, for a truly memorable dining experience.

Day 2: Welcome Aboard!

After a hearty breakfast at your hotel, spend the morning soaking in the charm of Ushuaia before embarking on your Antarctic adventure. Stroll along the picturesque waterfront, where fishing boats and expedition vessels bob against a backdrop of the majestic, snow-capped Martial Range—the final peaks of the mighty Andes.

If you are looking for souvenirs or any last-minute essentials, explore the city’s boutique shops, which offer everything from locally crafted keepsakes to high-quality cold-weather gear. Should you need extra layers, keep in mind that you will soon receive your own expedition parka to keep and a pair of waterproof boots to use once on board, ensuring you’re well-prepared for the journey ahead.

For lunch, explore the diverse culinary offerings along Avenida San Martín, Ushuaia’s bustling main street. From cozy cafés serving up fresh pastries and rich Argentine coffee to traditional parrillas (steakhouses) where sizzling cuts of Patagonian beef take center stage, there is something to satisfy every craving.

In the afternoon, your Antarctic journey truly begins as you are transferred to the port, where the elegant M/V Sea Spirit awaits. Step aboard this deluxe expedition vessel and receive a warm welcome from the crew, who are eager to ensure your voyage is as comfortable and unforgettable as the landscapes you are about to explore.

Settle into your spacious suite aboard the M/V Sea Spirit, your home away from home for this remarkable Antarctic expedition. Take some time to explore the well-appointed amenities, all designed to provide comfort and adventure in equal measures.

As the vessel gets underway, the journey officially begins with a welcome briefing and insightful introductions from the experienced expedition team, who will guide you through the wonders ahead. After savoring the first of many exquisite dinners on board, step outside onto the open decks to soak in the breathtaking scenery. The ship glides through the legendary Beagle Channel, where rugged mountains and remote islands are bathed in the golden hues of the evening light—a spectacular prelude to the adventure that awaits.

Day 3-4: Across the Drake Passage.

After navigating past the rugged islands of Tierra del Fuego, the journey veers southward into the legendary Drake Passage, where the Atlantic, Pacific, and Southern Oceans converge. As the ship pushes through these often-turbulent waters, keen eyes scan the horizon for the towering spouts and breaching forms of Humpback and Fin Whales, which frequent these nutrient-rich seas.

The awe-inspiring Wandering Albatross, with its astonishing wingspan—the largest of any bird—glides effortlessly over the rolling swells of the Drake Passage, a master of the open ocean. From panoramic open decks and private balconies, travelers can witness these avian mariners up close as they soar just above the waves, often following the ship for hours, drawn by the promise of disturbed waters rich in food.

As we sail further south, we cross the Antarctic Convergence, the dramatic biological boundary where the cold, nutrient-rich waters of the Southern Ocean meet the warmer seas to the north. This natural threshold heralds the approach of Antarctica’s pristine environment. The ship’s advanced stabilizing ensures a smooth and comfortable journey, even when the seas grow rough. In preparation for the extraordinary landscape ahead, our expert lecture staff delivers insightful briefings and bio-security procedures to ensure both safety and environmental responsibility. We anticipate reaching the South Shetland Islands by the evening of our second day at sea, the first glimpse of the frozen wilderness that awaits.

Day 5-9: South Shetland Islands and Antarctic Peninsula.

In the coming days, we embark on an exploration of the South Shetland Islands and the awe-inspiring Antarctic Peninsula. This remote region boasts some of the most breathtaking landscapes on Earth—towering glaciers, jagged peaks, and vast ice fields that stretch into the horizon. It is also home to an extraordinary array of wildlife, offering unparalleled opportunities to observe Penguin colonies, Seals and Orcas patrolling the frigid waters. Here, nature reveals its raw, unspoiled beauty.

In sheltered bays and winding channels, the waters shimmer with glacial ice, their surface mirroring the majestic mountain peaks, perpetually capped with snow, and the sprawling glaciers that cascade down their slopes. Icebergs, ranging from towering monoliths to delicate, sculpted fragments, float gracefully in this pristine environment.

Beneath the surface, the nutrient-dense waters teem with krill, attracting vast colonies of marine mammals, including Whales and Seals, while seabirds soar overhead in abundance, making this region a true haven of natural wonder. The scene is one of unparalleled beauty, where the raw power of nature meets its most serene expression.

The entire region teems with life, as Penguins dive into the frigid seas, skillfully foraging for food, and return to establish sprawling rookeries at select sites on land. These charismatic birds, with their distinct behaviors and vibrant colonies, are a highlight of the Antarctic wilderness. Amidst this bustling natural activity, we also encounter various research stations, where scientists from around the world work to understand and protect this pristine environment.

The South Shetland Islands, located at the northernmost edge of Antarctica, will likely be the first destination in our exploration. This ruggedly beautiful island chain is rich in history, offering numerous landing sites of historical significance, alongside thriving wildlife that makes this region a natural paradise. From there, we venture into the breathtaking Gerlache Strait, a pristine expanse of towering glaciers, immense icebergs, and serene landscapes. One of the highlights of our journey is the famous Lemaire Channel, affectionately known as “Kodak Gap” for its stunning visual allure. This narrow passage, flanked by towering snow-covered mountains, creates a perfect mirror of its surroundings on the water’s surface, making it a photographer’s dream.

The South Shetland Islands are home to remarkable colonies of Gentoo, Chinstrap, and Adélie Penguins, often coexisting in the same areas, creating a captivating spectacle of life in the wild. In this untamed yet accessible landscape, the opportunity for exceptional wildlife viewing is complemented by the chance for more active exploration. Our expert guides lead hikes and hill climbs, offering a unique perspective of this untouched polar wilderness, where every step unveils new vistas of glaciers, rugged terrain, and vibrant wildlife. For avid sea kayakers, the pristine waters of Antarctica provide unparalleled opportunities to paddle alongside Seals and Penguins, navigating through some of the world’s most stunning and remote waterways. To truly immerse yourself in the untamed beauty of the White Continent, consider spending a night camping onshore, enveloped by the raw, unspoiled Antarctic wilderness. This expedition is cruising in its purest form. Our carefully planned route and exploration options are flexible, shaped by the ever-changing weather and ice conditions. With the expertise of our seasoned captain and expedition leader, our itinerary will be continuously adapted to maximize the incredible opportunities that arise in this challenging and extraordinary polar environment.

Day 10-11: Back across the Drake Passage.

As our journey begins its return across the Drake Passage toward South America, the adventure is far from over. Seabirds continue to accompany us, gliding effortlessly above the waves, and the waters remain full of possibility for sudden Whale sightings, adding an element of surprise to our final days at sea. This is also a time for celebration, with special events such as the Captain’s Farewell Cocktail and an evocative end-of-voyage slideshow that captures the unforgettable moments of our expedition. As we make our way into the tranquil Beagle Channel, the waters grow calmer, offering a peaceful night of smooth sailing as we head toward the port city of Ushuaia, marking the closure of an extraordinary Antarctic adventure.

Day 12: Disembarkation in Ushuaia.

After another delightful breakfast aboard, we say our heartfelt farewells. A group transfer is provided to the airport for your onward journey, or, if you prefer, we will take you into the city center to explore more of this charming gateway to Antarctica.

As you reflect on the incredible experiences of your Antarctic adventure, the memories of pristine landscapes, fascinating wildlife, and unforgettable moments may leave you eagerly anticipating your next polar exploration.

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