Antarctica, the southernmost continent and site of the South Pole, is a virtually uninhabited, ice-covered landmass. Most cruises to the continent visit the Antarctic Peninsula, which stretches toward South America. It’s known for the Lemaire Channel and Paradise Harbor, striking, iceberg-flanked passageways, and Port Lockroy, a former British research station turned museum. The peninsula’s isolated terrain also shelters rich wildlife, including many penguins.
Morning: Arrive in Ushuaia, Argentina. Enjoy a pre-cruise stay in a 5-star hotel.
Afternoon: Private transfer to the port. Board your luxury expedition vessel.
Evening: Welcome champagne reception and dinner with the captain. Sail through the Beagle Channel.
Morning: All Day: Cross the Drake Passage. Attend educational lectures by polar experts. Enjoy the ship’s amenities such as a spa, fitness centre, and fine dining.
Morning: Arrive at the South Shetland Islands. First Zodiac cruise and landing at King George Island or Deception Island.
Afternoon: Explore penguin rookeries and historical sites. Option for kayaking or a guided hike.
Evening: Relax in the ship’s lounge with a cocktail and enjoy gourmet dinner.
Morning: Zodiac cruise and landing at Neko Harbour. Observe stunning glaciers and wildlife.
Afternoon: Visit Paradise Bay for more wildlife sightings. Option for a helicopter tour (if available).
Evening: Special dinner featuring local seafood and panoramic views of the icy landscape.
Morning: Cruise through the scenic Lemaire Channel. Zodiac excursion to Pleneau Bay, known as the “Iceberg Graveyard.”
Afternoon: Land at Petermann Island. Observe Adelie and Gentoo penguins, and possibly seals.
Evening: Enjoy a themed dinner onboard, perhaps inspired by the explorers of Antarctica.
Morning: Visit Port Lockroy, a historic British research station. Explore the museum and send postcards from Antarctica.
Afternoon: Zodiac cruise and landing at Jougla Point. See more penguin colonies and possibly whale sightings.
Evening: Indulge in a wine tasting event and a luxurious dinner.
Morning: Navigate the Antarctic Sound, known for its massive tabular icebergs. Zodiac cruise to view the spectacular scenery.
Afternoon: Visit Brown Bluff or Paulet Island. Observe large colonies of Adélie penguins and dramatic landscapes.
Evening: Farewell dinner and celebration with fellow travellers.
All Day: Start the return crossing of the Drake Passage. Reflect on the journey, enjoy final lectures, and make use of the ship’s amenities.
Morning: Arrive back in Ushuaia. Disembark and transfer to the airport or continue with a post-cruise extension.