Day 1: Arrival in Ushuaia

• Arrive in Ushuaia, Argentina, where you will be met by a representative of Aurora Expeditions and transferred to your assigned pre-voyage hotel.

• Check-in is from 3:00 pm at either Las Hayas Ushuaia Resort or Los Acebos Ushuaia Hotel.

• Visit the Aurora Expeditions hospitality desk in the lobby between 3:00 pm and 7:00 pm to collect luggage tags and confirm embarkation details.

• The remainder of the day is at leisure, with all meals at your own expense.

Day 2: Embarkation in Ushuaia

• Enjoy breakfast and check out of the hotel.

• Ensure your cabin luggage is tagged and left at the hotel reception for transfer to the port.

• Spend the morning at leisure in Ushuaia.

• You may choose to join an optional catamaran cruise of the Beagle Channel, visiting Les Eclaireurs Lighthouse and watching sea lions and imperial cormorants.

• Alternatively, enjoy the day at leisure before transferring to the pier for embarkation.

• Once onboard, settle into your cabin and attend mandatory briefings.

• The ship departs Ushuaia in the evening, offering spectacular views as you begin your journey.

Day 3-4: Drake Passage Crossing

• Commence the Drake Passage crossing, getting accustomed to the sea motions.

• The expedition team provides wildlife guidelines and biosecurity procedures, and begins the lecture program on Antarctica's history, wildlife, and environment.

• Enjoy watching and photographing seabirds like albatrosses and giant petrels.

• Onboard facilities include a gym, wellness center, and observation lounges.

• By the afternoon of Day 4, approach the South Shetland Islands and the Antarctic Peninsula, with the possibility of a first landing if weather permits.

Day 5-9: Weddell Sea & Antarctic Peninsula

• Explore the western side of the Antarctic Peninsula and the South Shetland Islands.

• Experience approximately 18-24 hours of daylight, allowing for busy days filled with activities.

• The expedition team designs daily itineraries based on weather, ice conditions, and wildlife opportunities.

• Typically, make two landings or Zodiac excursions per day.

• Activities include Zodiac cruises along ice cliffs, visits to penguin rookeries, and exploring historic sites.

• Keep watch for whales, seals, and penguins.

• Optional activities like polar plunging or kayaking may be available, depending on conditions.

Day 10-11: Drake Passage Crossing

• Enjoy a final morning landing in the South Shetland Islands before re-entering the Drake Passage for the return journey to South America.

• Engage in lectures and film presentations to complete the Antarctic experience.

• Reflect on the journey and discuss conservation efforts.

• Weather permitting, the ship may sail close to Cape Horn.

Day 12: Disembarkation in Ushuaia

• Cruise up the Beagle Channel early in the morning and disembark in Ushuaia around 8:00 am.

• Farewell the expedition team and fellow passengers.

• Transportation to hotels or the airport is arranged for those continuing their travels.

• It is recommended not to book flights departing Ushuaia before 12:30 pm in case of delays.