Antarctica

Antarctica is like no other place on the planet, and to experience its ethereal splendor is a rare privilege. This fascinating expedition cruise explores the Antarctic Peninsula, one of the most wildlife-rich regions of the world. Our journey takes place during the austral summer, when the sun emerges from the long winter night and the krill-rich waters teem with life. Cruising aboard a deluxe expedition vessel, we enjoy Zodiac adventures among icebergs of fantastic form and shore walks to observe seals, sea lions, nesting penguins, and seabirds—all against a backdrop of the most incredible scenery on earth. Throughout our voyage, expert naturalists share their in-depth knowledge of this miraculous continent.

Itinerary at a Glance

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Days 1-2
Ushuaia / Embark / Drake Passage

Arrive in Ushuaia, a small Patagonian town on the Beagle Channel beautifully framed by the snow-capped mountains of the Martial Range. The next day, we board our deluxe expedition ship and navigate the historic Beagle Channel, traveled by Captain Fitzroy and Charles Darwin aboard the HMS Beagle in 1835.

Days 3-4
Drake Passage / At Sea

We observe wildlife from the ship’s deck and attend lectures by naturalists and historians while crossing the famed Drake Passage. Huge albatross and Cape petrels follow the wake of our ship as we make our southern passage, and we watch for whales while cruising over the Antarctic Convergence.

Days 5-9
Antarctic Peninsula

As we make our way between the islands and bays of the Peninsula, we take in a breathtaking panorama of sharply sparkling seas, enormous icebergs, blue-white glaciers at water’s edge, and endless snow-capped mountains. With five full days to explore, we walk among seal colonies and rookeries teeming with penguins raising their downy chicks, explore historic outposts, and visit scientific stations, while exciting Zodiac explorations bring us close to towering icebergs and ice floes where seals lie about. Among the places we plan to visit are Deception Island, with its giant volcanic crater flooded with seawater (this sea-filled crater has a natural thermal spring—bring your bathing suit for a hot soak in Antarctica!), and aptly named Paradise Bay, a tremendously scenic setting of heavily glaciated mountains, ice cliffs, and a bay full of icebergs and “bergy bits.” On a Zodiac cruise, we may see Weddell and crabeater seals lolling on ice floes and even a humpback whale or two! One of our expedition’s highlights is a sail through the spectacular Lemaire Channel, where sheer 3,000-foot peaks rise on either side of the narrow passage. At the south end of the channel lies Pleneau Island, with its glittering ice formations, teeming gentoo penguin rookeries, and southern elephant seals. We also enjoy options for camping and sea kayaking, conditions permitting.

Days 10-12
Drake Passage / Ushuaia

As we watch for whales and seabirds and enjoy onboard lectures, we return to Ushuaia via the Drake Passage. Disembark in Ushuaia on Day 12 and depart.

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What the Trip is Like

The trip is rated Level 1+, Easy. You will be travelling to a very remote destination. You must be able to complete on board safety drills and emergency evacuation procedures without the assistance of others. Rolling seas and windy conditions require you to be stable on your feet, especially when walking on slippery decks or up and down steep gangways. Shore excursions often require hiking over uneven terrain without the benefit of a developed trail. Some agility is required for getting in and out of the Zodiac landing crafts. While several Zodiac landings are dry, many will require that you step in the water to get ashore. Zodiac and shore excursions are weather permitting.

Explanation of Trip Levels