CROSSING THE ANTARCTIC CIRCLE

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13 DAYS

ITINERARY SUMMARY

DayPlaceHighlights
Days 1 - 2Ushuaia, ArgentinaArrive into Ushuaia, explore the southernmost city in the world, spend the night in a hotel before embarking on Day 2
Days 3 - 4At SeaCross the Drake Passage, catch glimpses of rarely seen wildlife
Days 5 - 9Antarctic PeninsulaPicturesque bays, iceberg-rich channels, numerous species of enchanting penguins, seals and whales, cross the Antarctic Circle
Day 10South Shetland IslandsSpectacular display of mountains, glaciers and wildlife
Days 11 - 12At SeaRe-cross the Drake Passage, celebrate the conclusion of your expedition
Day 13Ushuaia, ArgentinaDisembark from the ship and continue on your onwards journey

SHIP OFFERING THIS ITINERARY

Ocean Victory

Ocean Victory commenced voyages in November 2021 and was established as one of the most modern small ship vessels in the market. This stylish cruise ship is ideally suited for our business model of small ship expeditions and is deployed and dedicated to varied Antarctic region voyages. With a total of 93 comfortable staterooms for our guests, all with a view of the ocean, (and 90% with their own balcony), several restaurants, a wellness area, an Albatros Nordic Bar, an open deck dining facility, a modern lecture lounge, and other amenities, the vessel is also environmentally-friendly onboard, with an implementation of the Green Initiative Program, ensuring both absolute comfort and sustainability for our guests.

Ocean Albatros

The Ocean Albatros had her maiden voyage in 2022 with a revolutionary X-bow design for more stability and comfort along with being environmentally considerate in all aspects. A total of 93 cabins can accommodate up to 189 guests, all featuring ocean views, 90% with their own balconies. Two restaurants serve up high-quality cuisine along with a Nordic inspired bar to spend your nights enjoying the incredible Antarctic scenery passing you by. Fill in your time at sea with visits to the wellness area (with a gym and a spa), listen to lectures in the modern lecture lounge and soak up the sun (with your coat on) on the open deck dining facility. The Ocean Albatros is part of a new generation of low-energy vessels with 4 diesel engines and 2 electro engines, all controlled electronically to optimise speed and fuel consumption.

Days 1 – 2 Ushuaia, Argentina

Ushuaia, Hayley

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

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. And 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

Drake Sunset

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

Ushuaia

With huge smiles on weary, content faces, disembark in the morning, letting you catch a flight to Buenos Aires or stay in Ushuaia for more sights and adventure.

To book this cruise call 1300 784 794 or email contact@antarcticatravelcentre.com.au

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.