Arrive in Ushuaia, Argentina - the world’s southernmost town. Explore the quaint city or local countryside. Alternatively, consider a day trip off the beaten path to the raw, natural archipelago of Tierra del Fuego. It's a hiker's paradise with rugged snow-capped mountains, glaciers, flower-filled meadows and boggy quagmires.

In the afternoon, board Ocean Victory and enjoy a welcome dinner.

Your journey begins as you navigate through the calms of Beagle Channel, a strait in the Tierra del Fuego Archipelago.

 

Sail two days across the Drake Passage, a body of water that marks the intersection of the cold Antarctic with the warmer Atlantic and Pacific Oceans. Drake Passage is known for rollicking conditions and strong westerly winds, called the Roaring Fifties. While this passage may be challenging, rest confidently aboard the expedition vessel, which is purpose-built with stabilizers, powerful engines and a highly-qualified crew. The most spirited sailors consider Drake Passage a lifetime achievement, and complete the crossing twice! In the Drake, the excitement builds as Antarctic wildlife comes into view. Weather permitting, catch your first sight of seals and penguins! The area is also well-know for its abundance of birds.

Over the next two days, begin the exciting Antarctic experience and explore the sub-Antarctic islands of the South Shetland chain and marvel at the captivating landscapes along the way. Weather permitting, projected landfalls include: King George Island; Deception Island, an extinct volcano with waters warm enough for a polar swim; and Half Moon Island with nesting Wilson's storm petrels and chinstrap penguins.

The itinerary and activities over the next few days depend on weather and ice conditions. The route and shore landings are to be determined by the captain and expedition leader and communicated to guests through regularly scheduled briefings.

As the white shimmer of Antarctica looms on the horizon, the presence of wildlife multiplies by tens of thousands with many species of lively penguins, inquisitive seals, nesting birds and the spray of marine mammals. Wildlife abounds along the projected route along the Antarctic Peninsula: leopard, Antarctic fur, and Weddell seals off Cuverville Island; humpback whales in Gerlache Strait and Paradise Bay; orcas in the dramatic Lemaire Channel, and much more.

The itinerary and activities over the next few days depend on weather and ice conditions. The route and shore landings are to be determined by the captain and expedition leader and communicated to guests through regularly scheduled briefings.

Please note that all the outings and landings rely on weather, sea and ice conditions being favorable both for the ship to access the areas, as for the zodiacs and kayaks to maneuver under adequate conditions, ensuring the safety of all passengers and staff.

Depart Antarctica and spend two days at sea on the way back to the calms of Beagle Channel and Ushuaia, Argentina. En-route, cross Drake Passage and cruise past Cape Horn, a legendary maritime landmark and the southern tip of South America. During your time at sea, a variety of activities will be arranged on board which will provide the perfect opportunity to socialize with fellow travelers equally passionate for discovering the world, enjoy the lectures by the expedition team on board, visit the shop or relax at leisure in ship’s facilities, designed to provide a comfortable, relaxing time.

Return to Ushuaia and disembark after breakfast. Transfer to the airport to continue your independent travels or return home.