Realm of Penguins & Icebergs

Day-by-day itinerary

1. Day 1: Arrival in Ushuaia, Argentina (hotel night)

   Welcome to Ushuaia, the world’s southernmost city and starting point of our Antarctic expedition! Upon your arrival at the airport, you will be greeted by our staff and transferred to a quality hotel, which has been arranged by us and is included in the price of the itinerary. For the rest of the day, you are free to explore this vibrant port city and adventure hub.

2. Day 2: Welcome Aboard!

   After breakfast at your hotel, the morning is yours to enjoy Ushuaia. In the afternoon, you will be transferred to the pier where we will warmly welcome you aboard the deluxe expedition vessel M/V Sea Spirit. After getting underway, a full schedule of events kicks off with informative briefings and introductions from your expedition staff. After the first of many delicious dinners on board, step out onto the open decks to admire the scenery and gorgeous evening light as we pass through the Beagle Channel.

3. Day 3: Across the Drake Passage

   After passing the islands of Tierra del Fuego, we turn south to begin our crossing of the Drake Passage. We watch for humpback and fin whales along the way. The majestic wandering albatross and other graceful subantarctic seabirds are common in these waters and can readily be viewed from panoramic open decks and balconies. We also cross the Antarctic Convergence, the biological boundary of the Southern Ocean.

4. Day 4: Across the Drake Passage

   Continue crossing the Drake Passage. Briefings, bio-security procedures and presentations by our lecture staff prepare you for our arrival in Antarctica. We hope to arrive in the South Shetland Islands on the evening of our second day at sea.

5. Day 5: South Shetland Islands and Antarctic Peninsula

   Within the next days, we explore the highlights of the South Shetland Islands and the Antarctic Peninsula. This region contains some of the world’s most impressive scenery and the best wildlife viewing in Antarctica. The South Shetland Islands are the northernmost islands in Antarctica and will likely be our first area of exploration.

6. Day 6: South Shetland Islands and Antarctic Peninsula

   Continued exploration of the South Shetland Islands and Antarctic Peninsula. We will also explore the supremely picturesque Gerlache Strait area of the Antarctic Peninsula, a pristine wilderness of spectacular white landscapes, colossal icebergs, obliging marine mammals and bustling penguin colonies.

7. Day 7: South Shetland Islands and Antarctic Peninsula

   Continued exploration. We hope to show you the famous Lemaire Channel, also known as “Kodak Gap”. Throughout this area, we find large colonies of gentoo, chinstrap and Adélie penguins. This is also the peak of the whale-watching season.

8. Day 8: South Shetland Islands and Antarctic Peninsula

   Continued exploration. Our knowledgeable guides will offer hiking and hill climbing. For sea kayakers, the wildlife-rich waters of Antarctica offer many chances to paddle with seals and penguins. You can also spend a night camping ashore.

9. Day 9: South Shetland Islands and Antarctic Peninsula

   Last full day exploring the South Shetland Islands and Antarctic Peninsula. This is expedition cruising at its most authentic. Our precise route and exploration opportunities will be shaped by weather and ice.

10. Day 10: Back across the Drake Passage

    It is now time to head back across the Drake Passage toward South America, but the adventure is not quite over. Seabirds are our constant companions and there is always the possibility of whale encounters in these wild waters. This is also the time for festivities such as the Captain’s Farewell Cocktail and the end-of-voyage slideshow.

11. Day 11: Back across the Drake Passage

    Continue crossing the Drake Passage. As we enter the calm Beagle Channel, we enjoy a night of smooth sailing toward Ushuaia.

12. Day 12: Disembarkation in Ushuaia, Argentina

    After yet another delicious breakfast on board, we bid you a fond farewell in Ushuaia. We provide a group transfer to the airport or to the city center if you wish to spend more time here.