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AfrikáansAlbanésAlemánÁrabeArmenioAzeríBengalíBielorrusoBirmanoBosnioBúlgaroCanarésCatalánCebuanoChecoChichewaChino (Simp)Chino (Trad)CincalésCoreanoCriollo haitianoCroataDanésEslovacoEslovenoEspañolEsperantoEstonioEuskeraFinlandésFrancésGalésGallegoGeorgianoGriegoGujaratiHausaHebreoHindiHmongHolandésHúngaroIgboIndonesioInglésIrlandésIslandésItalianoJaponésJavanésJemerKazajoLaoLatínLetónLituanoMacedonioMalayalamMalayoMalgacheMaltésMaoríMaratíMongolNepalíNoruegoPersaPolacoPortuguésPunjabíRumanoRusoSerbioSesotoSomalíSuajiliSuecoSundanésTagaloTailandésTamilTayikoTeluguTurcoUcranianoUrduUzbecoVietnamitaYidisYorubaZulú

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ARRIVAL TO  USHUAIA - DAY 1

On arrival into Ushuaia, transfer to the Hotel Arakur. The city of Ushuaia lies at the southern tip of Tierra del Fuego on the shores of the Beagle Channel, with the Martial Mountains rising up behind and creating a spectacular backdrop. Ushuaia is the capital of Tierra del Fuego (Land of Fire) and the main starting point for voyages to the White Continent of Antarctica.
The Hotel Arakur is set on a spectacular natural balcony inside the Reserva Natural Cerro Alarken, 800 feet above sea level and surrounded by stunning panoramic views, native forests and natural terraces. The hotel features a lobby with large windows, fireplaces and a decor that focuses on wood, stone and natural fabrics. Facilities include a heated pool, gym, Wi-Fi and a shuttle service to Ushuaia city centre.

EMBARKATION IN USHUAIA - DAY 2

Enjoy a free morning in Ushuaia to explore the city or pick up some last-minute supplies. You may like to visit the award-winning Museo Marítimo y del Presidio de Ushuaia, (Maritime & Prison of Ushuaia Museum), located in Ushuaia’s former prison buildings, or nearby Tierra del Fuego National Park that can be reached by the “End of the World Train”. The main street of Ushuaia, Avenida San Martin, is lined with cafes, shops and restaurants. Embarkation begins in the afternoon at the port in Ushuaia. Enjoy a welcome drink and an introduction to the crew and expedition staff and settle into your cabins. In the early evening the ship sets sail along the famous Beagle Channel and the scenic Mackinlay Pass towards the Drake Passage.

AT SEA - DRAKE PASSAGE - DAY 3 & 4

Spanning nearly 1000kms, the infamous Drake Passage lies between South America and Antarctica and connects the Atlantic and Pacific Oceans. Named after the English explorer Sir Francis Drake, the Passage also marks the Antarctic Convergence. This biological barrier, where cold polar water sinks beneath the warmer northern waters, produces krill-rich waters and is a feeding ground for sea mammals, albatrosses and petrels. As we sail across the Drake Passage, watch out for marine life and enjoy the expansive views of the open ocean, either from inside the ship or out on deck. Albatrosses, prions and petrels frequently follow the ship and whales and dolphins can often be spotted. There will also be a series of lectures on the geology, history and wildlife of Antarctica and the Southern Ocean, preparing you for what lies ahead. If conditions are favourable, we may reach the South Shetlands on the evening of Day 4. The first sightings of icebergs and snow-capped mountains will herald your arrival. The islands are home to vast penguin rookeries, Antarctic fur and Southern elephant seals.

EXPLORING THE ANTARCTIC PENINSULA - DAY 5 TO 8

Over the next few days we explore the spectacular landscapes of the Antarctic Peninsula and discover the unique wildlife, cruising waterways in the Zodiacs and making shore landings. The itinerary will depend on weather and ice conditions. We hope to sail through Neptune’s Bellows into the flooded caldera of Deception Island, one of the most incredible islands on the planet and one of the only places in the world where ships can sail directly into the centre of an active volcano. Much of the island is covered by glaciers, there are remains of the old structures at Whalers Bay including rusting tanks and boilers, an aircraft hangar and Biscoe House (the British scientific station house), and the island is home to several chinstrap penguin colonies. We also hope to navigate along some of the most beautiful waterways of the region including the Gerlache Strait, Neumayer Channel and Lemaire Channel. The Neumayer and Lemaire Channels are narrow passages between immense towering rock faces and spectacular glaciers. It will be easy to see why Lemaire Channel is known as “Kodak Alley”. For the more adventurous, there may be the opportunity to take a “Polar Plunge” perhaps at Neko Harbour. Other possible landing sites include Paulet Island, Melchior Island, Cuverville Island and Pleneau Island. We plan to make at least two landings a day, giving you as many opportunities as possible to explore the pristine Antarctic wilderness of snow, ice, mountains, glaciers and icebergs with their cracks and crevices reflecting an amazing spectrum of blue colours, and to marvel at its wildlife. This Frozen Frontier is home to an incredible variety of wildlife. Penguin species include Adélie, chinstrap, macaroni and gentoo. You should encounter Weddell, crabeater and leopard seals as well as minke, orca (killer) and humpback whales, Antarctic fur seals and Southern elephant seals. Then of course there is the huge variety of seabirds including kelp gulls, blue-eyed cormorants, Antarctic terns, Southern giant petrels, shearwaters and the wandering albatross with a wing span reaching up to 3 metres.

DEPART THE ANTARCTIC PENINSULA - DAY 9

As we leave Antarctica behind, we head north back across the Drake Passage towards Ushuaia. Continue your search for seabirds and whales and take in a few final lectures.

DRAKE PASSAGE - DAY 10

We return across the fabled Drake Passage, with Ushuaia in our sights.

DISEMBARKATION IN USHUAIA - DAY 11

We arrive into Ushuaia in the early morning and disembark the ship after breakfast. *** Important – Please be sure not to book flights out of Ushuaia before 12PM (Noon) on the day of disembarkation from your cruise ship.

THE MAP

ARRIVAL IN USHUAIA, ARGENTINA - DAY 1

On arrival into Ushuaia, you will be met and transferred to Hotel Arakur where you will meet up with your fellow expeditioners. There will be an evening briefing at 7:30pm to run through details of embarkation the following day. Ushuaia is the most southerly city in the world and the capital of Tierra del Fuego, with a dramatic setting overlooking the Beagle Channel, surrounded by mountains. It is a major port for Antarctic bound vessels and an interesting city to explore.

EMBARKATION - DAY 2

This morning is free for you to explore Ushuaia and pick up any essential supplies before boarding the ship in the mid-afternoon. Highlights of Ushuaia include the award-winning Museo Marítimo y del Presidio de Ushuaia, (Maritime & Prison of Ushuaia Museum), located in Ushuaia’s former prison, in buildings dating back to 1906, and nearby Tierra del Fuego National Park that can be reached by the “End of the World Train”. Stroll along the main street of Avenida San Martin with its many cafes, shops and restaurants, explore the Argentinean leather markets and maybe taste a succulent lamb dish for which Patagonia is famous. On embarkation you will meet the expedition crew and be shown to your suite. In the early evening we sail down the majestic Beagle Channel past magellanic penguin, rock cormorant and sea lion colonies as we head towards Antarctica. We will enter the legendary Drake Passage just after midnight.

AT SEA: DRAKE PASSAGE - DAY 3 & 4

We cross this famous stretch of water which sits between the Antarctic continent and South America and which takes its name from the 16th century English explorer Sir Francis Drake. Our on-board lecture program will commence today with our Antarctic experts giving you a fascinating insight into the continent with presentations on the wildlife, history and geology of Antarctica, preparing us for what lies ahead. On the second day we cross the Antarctic Convergence, a meeting of cold polar water flowing north and warmer equatorial water moving in the opposite direction. This mixing pushes nutrient rich waters to the surface, attracting a variety of seabirds, whales and other species. You will notice a distinct drop in temperature as we enter the icy waters of the Antarctic Ocean. If weather permits, head out on deck to look for whales, dolphins and trailing sea birds such as albatrosses, prions and petrels. Depending on sea conditions we may reach the South Shetland Islands by nightfall of day 4.

ANTARCTIC PENINSULA - DAY 5 TO 8

Experience some of the most unique wildlife viewing and awe-inspiring scenery in the world as you set foot on the Antarctic continent. Over the next four days we will explore the islands and waterways of the Antarctic Peninsula. Making use of our on board Zodiacs, we will cruise amongst ice-filled bays, looking out for wildlife as well as making shore landings. Here we will be greeted by a host of animals and may encounter Weddell, crabeater and leopard seals; gentoo, Adelie and chinstrap penguins as well as elephant seals. The scenery will take your breath away as you gaze at majestic mountains, incredible glaciers and vast beautifully sculptured icebergs.

ELEPHANT ISLAND - DAY 9

Departing the Antarctic Peninsula, we head towards Elephant Island, where weather permitting we will attempt to make a landing. Elephant Island is the desolate island where Sir Ernest Shackleton left 24 of his men for months while he embarked on one of the greatest survival stories of all time, on a mission to South Georgia in the hope of returning and saving them all.

AT SEA - DAY 10 & 11

We set sail again for the open seas and retrace Shackleton’s path to South Georgia. Spend time looking out for seabirds, whales and other wildlife, listening to expedition lectures from our on-board Antarctic experts and soaking up the ice-swept seascape.

SOUTH GEORGIA - DAY 12 TO 14

South Georgia has been a British Overseas Territory since 1775. At 3,755 square kilometres, it is the largest island in the territory and one of the wildest and most remote places on earth with dramatic scenery of snow-capped mountains and huge glaciers. The island is home to tens of millions of breeding penguins, seals and seabirds. In the 19th century South Georgia was a prominent whaling base, but whaling ceased in the 1960’s and the only remnants are museums and well-preserved buildings. South Georgia teems with wildlife due to the currents that bring nutrients to the island from the Atlantic. Huge numbers of penguins and seals breed here and it is also home to many fascinating sites, including Shackleton’s Grave. Over the next few days we will explore the wonderful island of South Georgia and see why the island is known as the “Galapagos of the South”. With enormous quantities of sea birds, penguin colonies numbering in the hundreds of thousands, sea lion pups and a wealth of history, this promises to be the highlight of any trip. We will visit the old whaling settlement of Gritviken and pay a visit to the grave of the legend himself – Sir Ernest Shackleton.

AT SEA - DAY 15

We leave South Georgia and chart a course for the Falkland Islands. Spend time out on deck scanning the horizon for seabirds and other wildlife and maybe take in an expedition lecture on the dramatic history and rich wildlife of the Falkland Islands.

FALKLAND ISLANDS - DAY 16

The Falkland Islands, a British Overseas Territory, is an archipelago that lies 490kms east of Patagonia in the South Atlantic Ocean. Surrounded by decades of controversy, the Falkland Islands (or Islas Malvinas as they are known in Argentina) have been settled and claimed by France, Spain, Britain and Argentina. The islands have much to offer and provide a rare opportunity to witness the biological diversity, extraordinary scenery and history of the southern islands. The Falklands have the largest black-browed albatross colony in the world and five species of penguin breed on the islands (gentoo, king, macaroni, magellanic and rockhopper). Port Stanley, the capital, offers an opportunity to meet the hardy local inhabitants whose colourful houses provide contrast to the long dark winters. We explore Stanley, chosen as the capital for its sheltered harbour and access to abundant fresh water and peat for fuel. Take a historical walking tour of the town to learn more about Stanley’s rich and colourful history. If time permits we will also visit nearby bird and penguin colonies. We depart in the afternoon setting a course for Puerto Madryn.

AT SEA - DAY 17

As we sail towards Puerto Madryn, there is time to reflect on the spectacular scenery and prolific wildlife encountered during the voyage, and the endeavours of explorers such as the legendary Shackleton.

DISEMBARK IN PUERTO MADRYN - DAY 18

This morning we explore the wildlife oasis of Puerto Madryn on the Patagonian coast before returning to the ship for lunch. Puerto Madryn is the gateway to Península Valdés. It is the second largest fishing port in Argentina and home to the country’s first aluminium plant, built in 1974. Puerto Madryn was founded by Welsh settlers in 1886, and along the shoreline statues of immigrants and Teheulche pay tribute to the history of the town. Between July and September the migrating southern right whales sometimes come so close that they can be viewed from the town pier. We disembark the ship late afternoon and transfer to the airport. Why not consider adding on a couple of days at the end of the tour to explore the Valdes Peninsula, one of the best places on the planet to spot orcas hunting their prey on the beaches.

THE MAP

DEPART USHUAIA - DAY 1

This afternoon we will meet with your escort in a central location, before heading to the ship. We board our vessel in the world’s southernmost city, Ushuaia. After meeting our fellow passengers and finding our way around our new home we set sail through the famed beagle channel. Passing incredible scenery we glimpse our last sight of land as we head due south towards Antarctica.

CROSSING THE DRAKE - DAY 2

We spend the day at sea, through the legendary waters of the Drake passage that is named after famous English seafarer, Sir Frances Drake. If conditions allow, enjoy the ample outer deck space to look for dolphins, whales and orcas as well as seabirds including the mighty Albatross following the ship. A comprehensive optional lecture program will also get under way, with some fascinating insights into Antarctic history, geology, biology and everything in between.

DRAKE PASSAGE, ARRIVAL TO SOUTH SHETLAND ISLAND - DAY 3

Today we continue crossing the Drake passage and hope to make landfall by early evening if conditions are favourable. The first sighting of land always brings great excitement on any expedition south.

ANTARCTIC PENINSULA - DAY 4 TO 7

For the next four days we explore the Antarctic Peninsula that is famed for its majestic mountains, glaciers, calm waters and abundance of wildlife. Our lecture program continues during our voyage and sightseeing during this period is at its most spectacular off the ship’s outer decks. We hope to visit an active research station during our time on the peninsula (subject to approval) as well as explore well known sites such as the Lemaire Channel, Deception Island, Paradise bay and Neko harbour. Whilst on the Peninsula we will have our famous Antarctica quiz as well as a host of interesting night time activities.

DAY 8

Crossing the Drake Leaving Antarctica behind we sail north to our home port of Ushuaia. We have time to reflect on our amazing journey and hear more wonderful talks on Antarctica.

CROSSING THE DRAKE - DAY 9

By the evening we hope to be back in the tranquil surrounds of the Beagle, ensuring a restful night’s sleep. Our last meal together is often a highlight of any trip.

ARRIVAL IN USHUAIA - DAY 10

After breakfast we disembark the ship. We wave goodbye to our new friends and continue on our journey or home. Transfer to the airport is included.

THE MAP

USHUAIA - DAY 1

Welcome to Ushuaia, the world’s southernmost city and starting point of our expedition. Upon your arrival at the airport we provide a transfer to your hotel, which has been arranged by us and is included in the price of the voyage. For the rest of the day you are free to explore the city. Take advantage of souvenir shopping and a variety of dining options in the city center.

EMBARKATION - DAY 2

In the afternoon we provide a group transfer to the pier and welcome you aboard the luxury expedition ship M/V Sea Spirit. Explore the ship and get comfortable in your home away from home for the extraordinary adventure to come. Savor the anticipation of your Antarctic dreams coming true as we slip our moorings and sail toward a true wilderness where wildlife abounds. The scenery as we sail through the Beagle Channel on our first evening is wonderful and there is already the possibility of marine mammal encounters.

ACROSS THE DRAKE PASSAGE - DAY 3 & 4

After transiting the Beagle Channel and passing the islands of Tierra del Fuego, we head south across the Drake Passage. On the way we cross the Antarctic Convergence, the biological boundary of the Southern Ocean. The ship’s stabilizing fins provide comfort in the event of rough seas. Briefings, orientations, and lectures from our expert staff prepare you for our arrival in Antarctica.

SOUTH SHETLANDS ISLANDS & ANTARCTICA - DAY 5 TO 8

The wilderness of Antarctica is subject to unpredictable weather and ever-changing ice conditions, which dictate our route and exploration opportunities. This is a real expedition. Our experienced captain and expedition leader decide the itinerary and continually adjust plans as conditions and opportunities warrant. We exploit every opportunity to experience excellent wildlife viewing, amazing scenery, and excursions via Zodiac.

The Antarctic Peninsula region contains some of the world’s most impressive scenery and some of Antarctica’s best wildlife viewing opportunities. Protected bays and narrow channels are surrounded by towering mountain peaks covered in permanent snow and immense glaciers. Icebergs of every size and description complete an image of incomparable beauty. Waters rich with krill are home to a variety of whale and seal species. The whole area is alive with penguins foraging at sea and forming large nesting colonies at special places on land. The area is also home to Antarctic research stations of various nationalities. Some stations have a gift shop and post office.

The South Shetland Islands are the northernmost islands in Antarctica and will likely be our first sighting of land. This wild and beautiful island chain contains numerous landing sites with abundant wildlife and historical significance. Among them is Elephant Island, where men from Shackleton’s famous Endurance expedition spent the winter.

Farther south, on the Antarctic Peninsula, the vast Gerlache Strait area contains sheltered bays, accessible wildlife, and stunning scenery.

SOUTHERN OCEAN - DAY 9 & 10

From Antarctica we head northeast toward South Georgia. Pelagic seabirds including the majestic albatross are common in these waters and can readily be viewed from panoramic open decks or from exterior stateroom windows and balconies. Briefings, bio-security procedures, and lectures from our expert staff prepare you for our arrival in South Georgia.

SOUTH GEORGIA ISLAND - DAY 11 TO 14

This is expedition cruising at its most authentic. Our route and exploration opportunities in South Georgia are heavily dependent on the weather conditions we encounter. Again you can be sure that the best possible advantage will be taken of the circumstances presented to us by Nature in this wild and remote corner of the world. We take every safe opportunity to go ashore in this amazing place.

South Georgia is a scenic wilderness and an unrivalled paradise for subantarctic wildlife viewing. The islands are said to host upwards of 100 million seabirds, including numerous species of albatross, penguins, prions, petrels, and terns. On beaches such as those at Salisbury Plain and St. Andrews Bay, over 100,000 elephant seals and three million fur seals jostle for space among innumerable penguins including stately king penguins and sprightly macaroni penguins. The recently completed rat eradication program is sure to make this wilderness even more pristine and rich with birdlife.

The bountiful waters surrounding South Georgia are also inhabited by an increasing number of whales. The historical whaling station of Grytviken is now home to the excellent South Georgia Museum managed by the South Georgia Heritage Trust. This is also the final resting place of Ernest Shackleton, the legendary polar explorer.

Our days in South Georgia are filled with memorable excursions, sumptuous meals, presentations by our experts, and enough incredible scenery and wildlife to fill your camera and overwhelm your emotions.

SOUTHERN OCEAN - DAY 15 & 16

From South Georgia we head west toward the Falkland Islands. Presentations and workshops by our expert staff, as well as our range of onboard recreation facilities, ensure that these days at sea are not idly spent.

FALKLANDS ISLANDS - DAY 17 TO 19

The remote and sparsely-populated Falkland Islands are a birders’ paradise. We anticipate visiting one or more of the isolated outer islands where large colonies of penguins and albatross are easily accessible. The Falklands are also a great place to observe marine mammals. Fur seals and elephant seals can be found on sandy beaches while the waters in and around the archipelago are home to various whale and dolphin species. Our route and exploration opportunities are dependent on weather among these windswept islands.

We also intend to visit Stanley, the charmingly British capital of the Falkland Islands. Attractions within pleasant walking distance along the waterfront promenade include the Falkland Islands Museum, the governor’s house, a cathedral with impressive whalebone arch outside, a war memorial, quality gift shops, pubs, and views of shipwrecks in the harbor.

SOUTH ATLANTIC OCEAN - DAY 20 & 21

From the Falkland Islands we proceed north toward Puerto Madryn. We keep a lookout for marine mammals such as dolphins and whales. This is also the time for our End of Voyage ceremonies including slideshow and farewell dinner.

DISEMBARKATION IN PUERTO MADRYN

After breakfast we say farewell in the city of Puerto Madryn. We provide a group transfer to the airport or to the town center if you wish to spend more time here. As you look back on your wonderful experience in Antarctica, you may already be looking forward to your next incredible adventure to the ice!

THE MAP

LEAVING USHUAIA - DAY 1

Your voyage begins where the world drops off: Ushuaia, Argentina, reputed to be the southernmost city on the planet, located on the far southern tip of South America. We embark the MV Hondius mid-afternoon from this small resort town on Tierra del Fuego – nicknamed “The End of the World” – and sail the scenic, mountain-fringed Beagle Channel for the rest of the evening. We get to know our crew and fellow guests over some welcome drinks and dinner, before heading out to open seas of the famed drake passage. We recommend arriving in Ushuaia at least one day prior to embarkation.

PATH OF THE POLAR EXPLORERS - DAY 2 & 3

Over the next two days on the Drake Passage, you catch a taste of life from the perspective of the polar explorers who first braved these regions: cool salt breezes, rolling waves, maybe even a fin whale blasting up a column of sea spray. After passing the Antarctic Convergence – Antarctica’s natural boundary, formed when north-flowing cold waters collide with warmer subantarctic seas. Not only does the marine life change, the avian life changes too: A variety of albatrosses and petrels show up, along with Cape pigeons and southern fulmars. Then, near the South Shetlands Islands, the first icebergs flash into sight – always an exciting moment for those aboard. Our lecture program will commence during this time and continue for the duration of the cruise. Be prepared to be astounded by legendary tales, find out more about the unique flora and fauna of this part of the world, and learn about the geology of the Antarctic.

ENTER THE ANTARCTIC - DAY 4 TO 9

We arrive to Antarctica. The world’s most pristine wilderness. Grey stone peaks greet us, sketched with snow, towers of broken blue-white ice, and dramatically different wildlife below and above. You first pass the snow-capped Melchior Islands and Schollaert Channel, sailing between Brabant and Anvers Islands. Sites you may visit during your time here may include: Cuverville Island – Stabbing up between Rongé Island and the Antarctic Peninsula, Cuverville houses a colony of several thousand gentoo penguins, as well as pairs of breeding brown skuas. Danco Island – Activities here may focus on the gentoo penguins nesting on the island, in addition to the Weddell and crabeater seals that may be found nearby.

Crystal Sound – If conditions permit, you may enjoy a landing in this ice-packed body of water. Port Lockroy – After sailing through the Neumayer Channel, We may get a chance to visit the former British research station – now a museum and post office – of Port Lockroy on Goudier Island. You may also be able to partake in activities around Jougla Point, meeting gentoo penguins and blue-eyed shags. There are great opportunities for kayaking and camping here. Paradise Bay – You may be able to walk on the Continent again at this location, or to take a Zodiac cruise in the sprawling, ice-flecked waters. Here you have a good chance of seeing humpback and minke whales. Wilhelmina Bay & Guvernøren – This is a great place to spot humpback whales, and you also may embark on a Zodiac cruise. Around the ghostly wreck of Guvernøren, a whaling vessel that caught fire here in 1915. Around the Melchior Islands, amid a frozen landscape peopled with icebergs, you may encounter even more whales, leopard seals, and crabeater seals. King George Island – Heading to the South Shetland Islands, the aim is a landing at the Chinese Great Wall Station. There are also Russia, Argentine, and Uruguayan research stations in this area. Onboard your adventure you will have plenty of free time, as well as enjoy some fantastic famed hospitality!

RETURN TO THE DRAKE - DAY 10

Your return voyage is far from lonely. While crossing the Drake, you’re again greeted by the vast array of seabirds remembered from the passage south. But they seem a little more familiar to you now, and you to them. The return crossing is always a great time to relive the experiences with your fellow passengers, and check through some of the incredible photography taken by the group.

RETURN TO USHUAIA

Every adventure, no matter how grand, must eventually come to an end. It’s now time to disembark in Ushuaia, after the journey of a life time.

THE MAP

LEAVING USHUAIA - DAY 1

Your voyage begins where the world drops off: Ushuaia, Argentina, reputed to be the southernmost city on the planet, located on the far southern tip of South America. We embark the MV Hondius mid-afternoon from this small resort town on Tierra del Fuego – nicknamed “The End of the World” – and sail the scenic, mountain-fringed Beagle Channel for the rest of the evening. We get to know our crew and fellow guests over some welcome drinks and dinner, before heading out to open seas of the famed drake passage. We recommend arriving in Ushuaia at least one day prior to embarkation.

PATH OF THE POLAR EXPLORERS - DAY 2 & 3

Over the next two days on the Drake Passage, you catch a taste of life from the perspective of the polar explorers who first braved these regions: cool salt breezes, rolling waves, maybe even a fin whale blasting up a column of sea spray. After passing the Antarctic Convergence – Antarctica’s natural boundary, formed when north-flowing cold waters collide with warmer subantarctic seas. Not only does the marine life change, the avian life changes too: a variety of albatrosses and petrels show up, along with Cape pigeons and southern fulmars. Then, near the South Shetlands Islands, the first icebergs flash into sight – always an exciting moment for those aboard. Our lecture program will commence during this time and continue for the duration of the cruise. Be prepared to be astounded by legendary tales, find out more about the unique flora and fauna of this part of the world, and learn about the geology of the Antarctic.

ENTER THE ANTARCTIC - DAY 4 TO 7

We arrive to Antarctica. The world’s most pristine wilderness. Grey stone peaks greet us, sketched with snow, towers of broken blue-white ice, and dramatically different wildlife below and above. You first pass the snow-capped Melchior Islands and Schollaert Channel, sailing between Brabant and Anvers Islands. Sites you may visit during your time here may include: Cuverville Island – Stabbing up between Rongé Island and the Antarctic Peninsula, Cuverville houses a colony of several thousand gentoo penguins, as well as pairs of breeding brown skuas. Danco Island – Activities here may focus on the gentoo penguins nesting on the island, in addition to the Weddell and crabeater seals that may be found nearby.

Crystal Sound – If conditions permit, you may enjoy a landing in this ice-packed body of water. Port Lockroy – After sailing through the Neumayer Channel, we may get a chance to visit the former British research station – now a museum and post office – of Port Lockroy on Goudier Island. You may also be able to partake in activities around Jougla Point, meeting gentoo penguins and blue-eyed shags. There are great opportunities for kayaking and camping here. Paradise Bay – You may be able to walk on the Continent again at this location, or to take a Zodiac cruise in the sprawling, ice-flecked waters. Here you have a good chance of seeing humpback and minke whales. Wilhelmina Bay & Guvernøren – This is a great place to spot humpback whales, and you also may embark on a Zodiac cruise. Around the ghostly wreck of Guvernøren, a whaling vessel that caught fire here in 1915. Around the Melchior Islands, amid a frozen landscape peopled with icebergs, you may encounter even more whales, leopard seals, and crabeater seals. King George Island – Heading to the South Shetland Islands, the aim is a landing at the Chinese Great Wall Station. There are also Russia, Argentine, and Uruguayan research stations in this area. Onboard your adventure you will have plenty of free time, as well as enjoy some fantastic famed hospitality!

RETURN VIA THE DRAKE - DAY 8 & 9

Your return voyage is far from lonely. While crossing the Drake, you’re again greeted by the vast array of seabirds remembered from the passage south. But they seem a little more familiar to you now, and you to them. The return crossing is always a great time to relive the experiences with your fellow passengers, and check through some of the incredible photography taken by the group.

RETURN TO USHUAIA

Every adventure, no matter how grand, must eventually come to an end. It’s now time to disembark in Ushuaia, after the journey of a life time.

THE MAP