Day 1: Ushuaia, Argentina Board the expedition vessel in the afternoon, where you'll meet your crew and fellow travellers. After settling into your cabin, the ship sets off along the picturesque Beagle Channel. Relish your first evening at sea as the southernmost tip of South America disappears from view. Days 2-3: Crossing the Drake Passage Start your Antarctic adventure with a crossing of the Drake Passage, a vast stretch of open ocean that marks the Antarctic Convergence, where nutrient-rich waters sustain a vibrant ecosystem. While at sea, attend expert-led talks on Antarctica’s history, wildlife, and geology. Head to the open decks or the bridge to spot albatrosses, petrels, and even whales. Adventure activities, including navigation workshops and safety briefings for kayaking and snowshoeing, will also be held. By the end of Day 3, the first sighting of icebergs and snow-capped peaks will signal your arrival at the South Shetland Islands. Days 4-9: Exploring the Antarctic Peninsula and Venturing below the Antarctic Circle Explore the wonders of the Antarctic Peninsula and South Shetland Islands, where towering icebergs, pristine glaciers, and dramatic landscapes define the ultimate polar wilderness. Highlights Include: Kayaking Among Icebergs: Paddle through tranquil waters, drifting past seals resting on ice floes and penguins diving in for a swim. Snowshoeing Adventures: Strap on snowshoes to explore pristine trails and reach panoramic viewpoints, offering breathtaking vistas of glaciers and peaks. Penguin Colonies: Visit expansive rookeries of Gentoo, Chinstrap, and Adélie Penguins, watching their amusing behaviours as they care for their chicks or brave the frigid waters. Wildlife Encounters: Spot Weddell, crabeater, and leopard seals lounging on ice or hunting in the water, with Minke and humpback whales often seen feeding nearby. Zodiac Cruises: Navigate ice-filled waters for close-up views of wildlife and ice formations. Scenic Waterways: Sail through some of Antarctica’s most iconic passages, such as the Gerlache Strait, Errera Channel, and Lemaire Channel, often referred to as the “Kodak Gap” for its spectacular scenery. Go Deeper and Further! With over 500 landing sites along the Antarctic Peninsula, no two voyages are ever the same. Our expert team designs each expedition based on weather, conditions, and opportunities for the most remarkable encounters. As vessel traffic grows, our deep regional knowledge ensures we go beyond the usual paths—navigating ice-filled channels, towering glaciers, and wildlife-rich shores. Guided by an experienced crew, this is more than a cruise—it’s a true expedition defined by spontaneity and discovery. Expect close encounters with Adélie, Gentoo, and Chinstrap penguins, seals, and whales, as we set our sights on the elusive Polar Circle. Days 10-11: Crossing the Drake Passage (Northbound) Say goodbye to the icy wilderness as we embark on our return journey across the Drake Passage. Reflect on the incredible sights and adventures of the past days. Attend final lectures and workshops or unwind on deck, keeping an eye out for seabirds and marine life. Conclude your Antarctic expedition with a farewell dinner on the final evening. Day 12: Return to Ushuaia Arrive back in Ushuaia in the early morning. After breakfast, disembark with cherished memories of an epic Antarctic expedition and new stories to tell. Please note: The above itinerary is a general guideline. Our precise route and activities will be adjusted to optimize wildlife viewing and adapt to prevailing weather and ice conditions. The Captain and/or Expedition Leader will make necessary changes to ensure the best possible experience. A daily program will be provided onboard. Flexibility is essential for a successful expedition.