Antarctica : Crossing the Antarctic Circle

Day 1 Ushuaia, Argentina
Antarctica is everything south of the Antarctic convergence, a biological boundary that fluctuates between 50° and 60° South. For some, an expedition to the Southern Continent is not complete unless the Antarctic Circle is crossed. Overnight at a hotel in Ushuaia.

Day 2 Embarkation Day
After embarkation in the late afternoon, you will sail down the Beagle Channel towards the open sea. 

Days 3-4 The Drake Passage
The Drake is legendary for its high winds and rolling seas, but you may be lucky and get calm weather. If so, we’ll keep you busy on deck, on the Bridge and in the presentation room with briefings and preparation for the adventure ahead.

Days 5-8 Exploring the Peninsula
During the voyage expect to see enormous rookeries of gentoo, chinstrap and Adélie penguins. You may also encounter Weddell, crabeater and leopard seals, as well as orcas, humpback, and minke whales. If pack ice and icebergs allow, the ship will navigate some of the most beautiful waterways in the world. Two in particular, the Neumayer and Lemaire Channels, are impressive narrow passages between towering rock faces and spectacular glaciers. Possibly visit Petermann Island, where Adélie and gentoo penguins, skuas and blue-eyed shags nest close to the landing sites. Shore landings and zodiac cruises are subject to weather and sea conditions.

Days 9-10 The Antarctic Circle
Crossing the Antarctic Circle is an impressive achievement, as most expeditions to the Peninsula do not reach 66° 33’S. Celebrate with a well-earned glass of champagne and raise a toast to the intrepid explorers who have gone before.

Days 11-12 Northbound Along the Peninsula
There’s a story behind every name on the map of Antarctica. Many of the French names that appear are the legacy of Jean-Baptiste Charcot, physician, yachtsman, and explorer. Your journey north will include further shore landings or zodiac cruises, conditions permitting. 

Days 13-15 Drake Passage to Ushuaia
As you cross the Drake once again, you’ll have time to adjust to a world where day and night are distinct. You will be transferred to the airport from the ship when you disembark in Ushuaia.

NOTE on the 12 and 14 day itineraries, spend less time exploring the Antarctic Peninsula. Some options do NOT include the pre-voyage night accommodation in Ushuaia - see prices page or ask our team for full details. 

Please note that all voyage itineraries are intended as a guideline only - embracing the unexpected is part of the legacy of expedition travel. Actual routes and landings will be dependent on weather, sea and ice conditions. A degree of flexibility is essential in the polar regions!