POLAR CIRCLE QUEST
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POLAR CIRCLE QUEST
ITINERARY SUMMARY
| Day | Place | Highlights |
|---|---|---|
| Day 1 | Ushuaia | Board the expedition vessel in the afternoon |
| Days 2 and 3 | Crossing the Drake Passage | Cross this iconic stretch of nutrient-rich water to Antarctica |
| Days 4 - 9 | Exploring the Antarctic Peninsula and Adventuring Below the Antarctic Circle | Antarctic Peninsula and South Shetland Islands, wildlife encounters Weddell, crabeater and leopard seals. Gentoo, chinstrap and Adelie Penguins |
| Days 10 and 11 | Crossing the Drake Passage (Northbound) | Cross the Drake Passage looking out for seabirds |
| Day 12 | Return to Ushuia | Farewell your expedition team and fellow travellers as you arrive Ushuia, the completion of your expedition cruise |
SHIP OFFERING THIS ITINERARY
ST HELENA
St Helena was built in the UK in 1989 and for many years served the very remote island of St Helena (mid-way between Africa and South America). The St Helena was extensively refurbished in 2022 with a 8 million pound renovation. She is a classic and character-rich small expedition ship, truly one of a kind. St Helena will carry a maximum of just 98 guests which means everyone can go ashore at the one time. St Helena includes kayaking, snowshoeing as well as zodiac excursions and landings.
Day 1 Ushuaia
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 and 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. Attend expert- led talks on Antarctica’s history, wildlife and geology. The nutrient-rich waters often attracting seabirds and whales. 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 Arctic Circle
The core of the journey unfolds as you explore the Antarctic Peninsula and South Shetland Islands, with each day offering a blend of landings, zodiac cruises and optional adventure activities. Paddle through tranquil waters, drifting past seals resting on ice floes and penguins diving in for a swim. Visit expensive rookeries of Gentoo, Chinstrap and Adelie.
With over 500 diverse landing sites along the Antarctic Peninsula, no two voyages are ever the same. Our expert team crafts each expedition based on conditions, weather, and opportunities for the most remarkable encounters. As passenger vessel traffic has increased in recent years, competition for landing sites has intensified – but our deep knowledge of this pristine region ensures you’ll embark on true exploratory journeys, venturing beyond the crowds. Guided by our experienced crew, you’ll navigate breathtaking ice-choked channels, witness towering glaciers, and encounter extraordinary wildlife in one of the most remote places on Earth. This is not just a cruise – it’s a genuine expedition where spontaneity and discovery define every day.
Kayaking among icebergs and paddle through tranquil waters, drifting past seals resting on ice floes and penguins diving in for a swim. Strap on snowshoes for snowshoeing adventures exploring pristine trails and reach panoramic viewpoints, offering breathtaking vistas of glaciers and peaks.
Days 10 and 11 Crossing the Drake Passage (Northbound)
Relive your adventures as you cross the Drake Passage, keeping an out for seabirds and whales along the way. Take part in final lectures or workshops and enjoy a celebratory dinner with your fellow travellers as you reflect on the unforgettable journey.
Day 12 Return to Ushuaia
Disembark your expedition ship in the the world’s southernmost city of Ushuaia.
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.
