CROSSING THE ANTARCTIC CIRCLE
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CROSSING THE ANTARCTIC CIRCLE
ITINERARY SUMMARY
| Day | Place | Highlights |
|---|---|---|
| Days 1 - 2 | Ushuaia, Argentina | Arrive into Ushuaia, explore the southernmost city in the world, spend the night in a hotel before embarking on Day 2 |
| Days 3 - 4 | At Sea | Cross the Drake Passage, catch glimpses of rarely seen wildlife |
| Days 5 - 9 | Antarctic Peninsula and Antarctic Circle | Penguins, whales, fur seals, whales, historic sites, dramatic icebergs, cross 66°33’S |
| Day 10 | South Shetland Islands | A remarkable richness of wildlife, eerie landscape of Deception Island, Yankee Harbour sealing history |
| Days 11 - 12 | At Sea | Re-cross the Drake Passage, celebrate the conclusion of your expedition |
| Day 13 | Ushuaia, Argentina | Disembark from the ship and continue on your onwards journey |
SHIP OFFERING THIS ITINERARY
Discoverer
The Discoverer, formerly the Silver Explorer, combines true expedition capability with a more refined onboard experience. An ice-strengthened hull, a fleet of Zodiacs and expansive outer make the ship perfectly suited for exploring remote polar environments. Carrying only 130 guests, she offers a small-ship atmosphere that allows for flexible landings and meaningful wildlife encounters. The Discoverer has undergone significant refurbishment in recent years, bringing a fresh and contemporary feel throughout the ship. Upgraded public spaces, elegant lounges, and thoughtful design create a welcoming atmosphere that remains expedition-first, simply with a little more polish.
Days 1 – 2 Ushuaia, Argentina
After a friendly welcome at the airport, transfer to a partnered premium hotel resort nestled in the breathtaking Patagonian nature, where you can take some time to unwind or go explore the southernmost city in the world, Ushuaia. The optional evening briefing is your opportunity to ask questions and meet some of your fellow explorers.
On Day 2, spend your morning relaxing at the hotel, visiting a museum, or exploring the shops in Ushuaia, before your mid-afternoon escort to the ship. The Expedition Team and ship staff will welcome you on board and get you settled in, followed by a safety and orientation briefing and the Captain’s welcome dinner.
Days 3 – 4 Drake Passage
Join the Polar Experts as they share their vast knowledge of Antarctica, from its enchanting wildlife to its bold history. Participate in the pioneering Citizen Science program or sit back and take in this fabled journey while catching glimpses of rarely seen wildlife. Keep your binoculars handy to identify the many seabirds that escort your ship as you cross the Antarctic Convergence into Antarctica’s waters and noticeably cooler temperatures.
Days 5 – 9 Antarctic Peninsula and Antarctic Circle
Venture west along the Antarctic Peninsula into the Gerlache Strait region, exploring a variety of sites highlighting the area’s staggering natural beauty. Iconic experiences await on the twice-daily excursions. From Zodiac cruises into Paradise Bay to witnessing penguins nesting on Cuverville Island, each potential stop promises awe-inspiring encounters. Explore historic huts at Damoy Point, keep an eye out for humpback whales in Wilhelmina Bay, and continue south until you reach the crown jewel of this expedition, the jaw-dropping scenery through the Lemaire Channel. Weather permitting, cross the Antarctic Circle at 66°33’S, an achievement that will put you in rare company.
Day 10 South Shetland Islands
This archipelago represents the northernmost tip of Antarctica, standing proud against the relentless force of the Southern Ocean. The ice-capped peaks of Livingstone, Greenwich, and King George Islands offer a stunning backdrop to explore. Despite the furious elements, the islands boast a remarkable richness of wildlife, with numerous colonies of Gentoo and Chinstrap Penguins dotting the island shores, accompanied by an array of formidable seabirds like the predatory Giant Petrels. Weather permitting, explore the eerie landscape of Deception Island, an active volcanic crater with black steaming sands and rusting ruins, and immerse yourself in the history of Yankee Harbour, once a vital anchorage for sealers.
Days 11 – 12 At Sea
Leave this magical place and make your way north, once again crossing the legendary Drake Passage. Have one last hurrah and celebrate the conclusion of your expedition with a special slideshow and a final meal together.
Day 13 Ushuaia, Argentina
With huge smiles on weary, content faces, disembark in the morning. Catch a flight to Buenos Aires or stay in Ushuaia for more sights and adventure.
We will tailor the perfect holiday to suit your needs.
Extend your trip to Patagonia
To make the most of your time in South America we can tailor a holiday to Patagonia to suit your voyage dates. If you have a bit more time we can create a tailor-made itinerary to some of the highlights of South America. Take a look at the Patagonia sample itineraries below and contact us to begin creating your perfect holiday.
