Please note: Read this itinerary as a guide only; our exact route and program varies according to ice and weather conditions - and the wildlife we encounter. Flexibility is the key to the success of this expedition. Visits to research stations depend on final permission.


Day 1: Ushuaia, Tierra del Fuego, Argentina

Arrive at our hotel in scenic Ushuaia and spend the rest of the day exploring this colorful port town.

Day 2: Embarkation Day

Transfer to the quay to join other adventurers on deck as we sail in the late afternoon through the scenic Beagle Channel.

Days 3-4: The Drake Passage

To sailors the Drake is legendary for its high winds and rolling seas, but you may be lucky and get calm weather. Regardless of the conditions, we'll keep you busy on deck, on the Bridge and in the presentation room. We prepare you for boarding Zodiacs, shore landings, and, if you dare, polar dips.

En route to Antarctica, you may find that delicious three-course meals are made even more interesting by the occasional shout of “Whales off the port side!” Will you continue eating or dash on deck with your camera?

Days 5-8: Exploring the Great White

The Expedition Team lowers the Zodiacs for exploration at least twice a day. That means that the bow of your Zodiac will be riding high, as the driver opens the throttle so we can give you as much time as possible ashore. Once on land, explore the Great White, or just sit on a rock and watch penguins invest considerable energy in survival. Wildlife in the Antarctic is refreshingly unafraid of humans, making each visit feel like a trip to another planet. The jagged polar terrain is magnificent, and awe-inspiring.

Got skills, use them.

Every cross-country skier, kayaker, camper or mountain-climber seeks that one perfect moment they will relive for the rest of their lives. Perhaps you'll find that moment in Antarctica. Optional adventures are available on a first come, first served basis. See the dates and rates sheet for details.

You could drift past an azure iceberg after a hard paddle. You could descend an ice slope after an exhilarating climb. There are no ski trails in Antarctica, so you will be breaking trails. While camping, you could be compelled to reach for the sky, because the stars appear to be only an arm's length away.

Days 9-10: The Antarctic Circle. A celebration is in order.

Crossing the Antarctic Circle is still a rare and impressive achievement. Celebrate with a well-earned glass of champagne, raising your glass to the intrepid explorers who have gone before.

Days 11 - 12: Loubert Coast

During the voyage, your Expedition Team will keep you informed about the fabled history of each area we visit. Every name on the map of the Antarctic has a story to tell. The Loubert Coast is no exception. The French names that appear are a legacy of Jean-Baptiste Charcot, physician, yachtsman, and explorer. He, like you, lived for adventure.

Days 13 - 15: Whales below, birds above, memories ahead

While crossing the Drake once again, stay up late with new friends as the lingering twilight of the southern summer fades. Trade memories that will last forever while you puzzle over the mystery that is Antarctica.

Note: Some departures will visit the Peninsula on the way back to Ushuaia.