Antarctica is like no other place on the planet, and to experience its ethereal splendor is a rare privilege to savor for a lifetime. This unique expedition cruise first explores the Antarctic Peninsula then ventures south—far south!—to the legendary Antarctic Circle at 66° 33’ S. Few people have visited this extreme latitude, one of the five major parallels of the earth, with its eerie and spectacular light lasting nearly 24 hours in the austral summer. The Antarctic Circle marks the northern limit of the area within which, for one day or more each year, the sun does not set or rise! When we reach this imaginary boundary at the bottom of the world, we’ll toast our achievement with a glass of champagne on deck. As we explore the wonder of Antarctica aboard the deluxe, ice-strengthened expedition vessel Sea Spirit, we also enjoy Zodiac adventures among fantastic icebergs and walks ashore to observe seals, sea lions, colonies of penguins, and seabirds—all against a backdrop of some of the most incredible scenery on earth. Throughout our voyage, expert naturalists share their in-depth knowledge of this amazing continent.

Itinerary at a Glance

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Days 1-4
Ushuaia / Embark / Drake Passage

After an overnight in Ushuaia, a town in southernmost Argentina, we board our vessel and navigate the Beagle Channel, accompanied by albatross, cape petrels, and other pelagic birds. Heading across the Drake Passage, we pass over the Antarctic Convergence, where the cold waters of the Southern Ocean meet the warmer waters of the north.

Days 5-8
Antarctic Peninsula

With four days on the Antarctic Peninsula, the most wildlife-rich part of Antarctica, walk among seal and penguin rookeries, explore historic outposts, and visit scientific stations. Exciting Zodiac explorations bring us close to towering icebergs and fantastically shaped ice floes. Our itinerary is flexible depending on ice conditions, but our landings may include Cuverville Island, with its 10,000 gentoo penguins, Petermann Island, where humpback and minke whales are often sighted, and sublime Paradise Bay, surrounded by heavily glaciated mountains and ice cliffs.

Day 9–10
The Antarctic Circle

One of the five major circles of latitude that mark maps of the earth, the Antarctic Circle is 66° 33' south of the equator, marking the southernmost point at which the sun appears above the level of the horizon at the winter solstice. The area south of this imaginary circle is known as the Antarctic, and the zone to the north is the Southern Temperate Zone. Crossing the Antarctic Circle is an impressive achievement, and we celebrate with a well-earned glass of champagne on deck, toasting to the intrepid explorers who have gone before us.

Day 11–12
Northbound Along the Peninsula

There’s a story behind every name on the map of Antarctica. Many of the French names that appear are the legacy of Jean-Baptiste Charcot, physician, yachtsman, and explorer. He, like our travelers, lived for adventure.

Day 13–14
The Drake Passage to Ushuaia

As we cross the Drake once again, we have time to adjust to a world where day and night are distinct, a fitting end to our visit to Antarctica.

Day 15
Ushuaia

After breakfast aboard the ship, travelers are transferred to the airport for the homeward flight.

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What the Trip is Like

The trip is rated Level 1, Easiest. It is appropriate for anyone in good health who is physically active. Some agility is required for getting in and out of the Zodiac landing crafts. There are daily shore excursions featuring walks.

Explanation of Trip Levels