Have questions? We're here.
Marveling at all the shades of blue!

Crossing the Antarctic Circle

Ushuaia Roundtrip - Example 13 Day Cruise aboard World Navigator
Talk with an expert
Build your ideal Antarctica trip. Call 1.406.541.2677
Start Planning My Trip
Embark on a 13-day adventure aboard World Navigator, crossing the Antarctic Circle. Navigating the Drake Passage, witness its power and be rewarded with extraordinary wildlife encounters, like humpback whales and hourglass dolphins. As travelers approach the South Shetland Islands, the icy peaks welcome them to Antarctica. Becoming a "Red Nose" as passengers cross the 66th parallel, explore the vast expanse of The White Continent, visiting sites like Beak Island, Brown Bluff, and Hidden Bay. Captain's Choice ports of call surprise the journey, taking travelers to prime wildlife viewing spots. Discover landscapes few have seen before, from rugged peaks to expansive tundra, making this a triumph of exploration.
Beautiful port of Ushuaia, ArgentinaPenguins on the shores of AntarcticaEmperor penguin chick in AntarcticaUshuaiaHiking in Antarctica is rewarded with spectacular viewsPenguins gathering on the shoreA whale plays near the surface at dusk.Small iceberg chunks surrounding the prow of the shipPuerto Madero in Buenos AiresMarveling at all the shades of blue!
Highlights
  • Brave the intrepid Drake Passage, guided by petrels and albatrosses
  • Witness extraordinary wildlife as warm and cold waters collide
  • Triumphantly cross the Antarctic Circle, becoming a "Red Nose"
  • Discover Antarctica's untouched beauty and unique landscapes on landings
Activity Level: Variable
Activity options vary depending on destination and operator. Activity level is determined by the range and intensity of activities you choose to participate in. Discuss with your Trip Planner which options are best for you.
0

Full Itinerary

Expand All

Day 1: Buenos Aires, Argentina

Arrive at any time in Buenos Aires, and check into your hotel. The rest of the afternoon is free for you to do as you please before resting up for your journey the next day.

Day 2: Fly Buenos Aires to Ushuaia | Embark

Wake up early this morning to catch your charter flight from Buenos Aires to Ushuaia; transportation from your hotel to the airport is provided.

Although its nickname is the “End of the World” – derived from its location along the southernmost tip of South America among the Tierra del Fuego archipelago – Ushuaia is far from the end of any adventure. Where the Andes meet the Beagle Channel and the snow-capped Martial Mountains sit behind a sprawling city of colorful buildings, lies a lively town ready and waiting to take you on the thrill ride of a lifetime. Scenes like Parque Yatana give you the chance to immerse yourself in the rich, indigenous culture.

Day 3-4: Drake Passage Navigation

Navigating the intrepid Drake Passage is made for the boldest of explorers. Petrels and albatrosses that glide across the skies guide the way. To witness its awesome power makes the journey to Antarctica all the more triumphant.

The Drake Passage leads you from the southernmost region of the Americas to the Antarctic Peninsula, the northern point of The White Continent. This waterway where the cold southern ocean meets warm northern sea water creates powerful currents that test your mettle.

But the rewards for the journeyer that braves these waters do not compare. The meeting of warm and cold waters creates an environment that attracts extraordinary wildlife. The Drake Passage offers the chance to witness the likes of humpback whales and hourglass dolphins that accompany the voyage. The soundtrack of the 48-hour journey through the Drake Passage includes the crash of the ocean against the ship and the cry of petrels, skuas, and gulls.

While the waterway is famous for its challenging navigation, you may still get another side of the Drake Passage. On some occasions, the channel is calm and tranquil, making for a pleasant voyage into Antarctica. That’s one of the more splendid characteristics of the Drake Passage – you never know what you get.

As you emerge from the Drake Passage, the mammoth, icy peaks of the South Shetland Islands loom ahead, greeting you on your victorious landing. You have completed the rite of passage to explore the seventh continent.

Day 5: Crossing Antarctic Circle | Exploring the Antarctic Peninsula – Captain’s Choice

As you cross the Antarctic Circle at the 66th southern parallel, you enter what feels like another world, creating a connection with your inner explorer spirit. It’s a space rarely navigated, with narrower channels that bring you closer to ice floes, snow-capped mountain peaks, and wondrous icebergs, making for a picture-perfect scene. When you do make the crossing, you join the Order of the Red Nose, the select few who navigate deep into the furthest reaches of The White Continent, an unbeatable feeling of triumph.

CAPTAIN’S CHOICE - The Antarctic Circle Crossing may be attempted on a different date during the expedition than indicated on the itinerary due to changing conditions. Expeditions at certain times of the season are not guaranteed to cross the circle as they depend on weather and ice conditions that may limit the ability to navigate that far south. Your Captain will expertly navigate ice floes, icebergs, and changing sea and weather conditions to ensure you experience the most from your expedition. Each day is a new adventure filled with a spontaneous sense of exploration as your Captain works with the expedition team to determine possible shore landings and Zodiac safaris. All itinerary routes serve as examples and are subject to change based on current conditions, prioritizing the safety and optimal expedition experience for all guests.

Day 6-8: Exploring Antarctica - Captain's Choice

Nicknamed The White Continent for its vast expanse of icebergs, snow, and glaciers, Antarctica is often the final frontier for experienced explorers to conquer. As you navigate Antarctic waters, you may set foot on sites like Beak Island, Brown Bluff, Cierva Cove, Hidden Bay, and many more. Each landing throughout the continent offers its own unique landscape, from expansive tundra to rugged mountain peaks, all beckoning you to follow the paths that few explorers have trekked before.

CAPTAIN’S CHOICE – Captain’s Choice ports of call add to the sense of adventure and an element of surprise. Your ship’s captain sails around changing weather conditions as needed and takes you to the best areas for wildlife viewing.

Day 9-10: Exploring the South Shetland Islands - Captain's Choice, Antarctica

Part of the greater Antarctica region, the South Shetland Islands contains plenty of wildlife, scenic landscapes, hiking opportunities, and magnificent viewpoints that inspire a sense of discovering another world. A possible landing on Elephant Island, named for the shape of its cliffside and the elephant seals that call it home, puts you on the same path as the famous Shackleton Expedition. Deception Island, another possible landing and named for its very nature, is in fact a volcanic caldera where you can find heated springs amid the striking black sands. Other stops could include Half Moon Island, Yankee Harbor, Point Wild, and Barrientos Island, where you can find plenty of Gentoo penguin rookeries.

CAPTAIN’S CHOICE – Captain’s Choice ports of call add to the sense of adventure and an element of surprise. Your ship’s captain sails around changing weather conditions as needed and takes you to the best areas for wildlife viewing.

Day 11-12: Drake Passage Navigation

Navigating the intrepid Drake Passage is made for the boldest of explorers. Petrels and albatrosses that glide across the skies guide the way. To witness its awesome power makes the journey to Antarctica all the more triumphant.

The Drake Passage leads you from the southernmost region of the Americas to the Antarctic Peninsula, the northern point of The White Continent. This waterway where the cold southern ocean meets warm northern sea water creates powerful currents that test your mettle.

But the rewards for the journeyer that braves these waters do not compare. The meeting of warm and cold waters creates an environment that attracts extraordinary wildlife. The Drake Passage offers the chance to witness the likes of humpback whales and hourglass dolphins that accompany the voyage. The soundtrack of the 48-hour journey through the Drake Passage includes the crash of the ocean against the ship and the cry of petrels, skuas, and gulls.

While the waterway is famous for its challenging navigation, you may still get another side of the Drake Passage. On some occasions, the channel is calm and tranquil, making for a pleasant voyage into Antarctica. That’s one of the more splendid characteristics of the Drake Passage – you never know what you get.

As you emerge from the Drake Passage, the mammoth, icy peaks of the South Shetland Islands loom ahead, greeting you on your victorious landing. You have completed the rite of passage to explore the seventh continent.

Day 13: Ushuaia, Argentina | Disembark | Fly to Buenos Aires

  • 1 Breakfast
Bid farewell to the expedition team and fellow travelers as you disembark in Ushuaia today. Then head to the airport for your flight home, transportation from the ship to the airport is provided. Your charter flight departs at approximately 1 p.m. and should arrive at approximately 4:30 p.m. (though this may vary). It is recommended to book flights from Buenos Aires no earlier than 8 p.m.

Ship/Hotel

World Navigator

Ship front
Ship back
Ship sailing

Buenos Aires - Hotels

Dates & Prices

My Preferred Start Date

  • Dec 27, 2025from $14,499
  • Jan 25, 2026from $14,399
  • Feb 19, 2026from $13,799
<Dec 2025>
SMTWTFS
30123456
78910111213
14151617181920
21222324252627
28293031123
Deal available

Deals

Suite Adventures 27114
Book a Suite on your Polar Expedition by March 31, 2025 and enjoy Double Bonus Savings of 20%, upgraded 1-night pre-expedition hotel stay and a private transfer from airport to hotel in Buenos Aires. Offer applies to new bookings on select expeditions sailing November 2025 to March 2026. All fares, special offers and inclusions are subject to change at any time without notice. Additional restrictions may apply. Please contact us for details.​
Click for departure dates

Per person starting at
$13,799
Rates are subject to change without notice. Book early to get the best rate.
Adventure Oceanview Stateroom
Select a Date
Adventure Oceanview Stateroom (AO)
Located: Deck 3 Occupancy: Up to 2 guests •183 sq. ft. • Sitting area with chair, desk and TV
Horizon Stateroom
Select a Date
Horizon Stateroom (A2)
Located: Deck 5 and 6 Occupancy: Up to 2 guests • 270 sq. ft. including floor-to-ceiling Juliette Balcony with top-drop electric window • Sitting area with sofa and TV
Horizon Stateroom
Select a Date
Horizon Stateroom (A1)
Located: Deck 5 and 6 Occupancy: Up to 2 guests • 270 sq. ft. including floor-to-ceiling Juliette Balcony with top-drop electric window • Sitting area with sofa and TV
Veranda Stateroom
Select a Date
Veranda Stateroom (B2)
Located: Deck 5 and 6 Occupancy: Up to 2 guests • 270 sq. ft. (including balcony) • Sitting area with sofa and TV
Veranda Stateroom
Select a Date
Veranda Stateroom (B1)
Located: Deck 5 and 6 Occupancy: Up to 2 guests • 270 sq. ft. (including balcony) • Sitting area with sofa and TV
Veranda Deluxe Stateroom
Select a Date
Veranda Deluxe Stateroom (E2)
Located: Deck 6 Occupancy: Up to 3 guests • 300 sq. ft. (including balcony) • Living room with sofa and vanity
Horizon Deluxe Stateroom
Select a Date
Horizon Deluxe Stateroom (E1)
Located: Deck 6 Occupancy: Up to 2 guests • 300 sq. ft. including floor-to-ceiling Juliette Balcony with top-drop electric window • Interior seating area with sofa and TV
Journey Suite
Select a Date
Journey Suite (JS)
Located: Deck 5 and 6 Occupancy: Up to 3 guests • 382 sq. ft. • Oversized private balcony with teak furnishings • Walk-in closet and wardrobe • Living room with sofa and vanity • Includes 2 wall-mounted TVs with “infotainment” system
Discovery Suite
Select a Date
Discovery Suite (DS)
Located: Deck 5 Occupancy: Up to 2 guests • 445 sq. ft. • Oversized private balcony with teak furnishings • Walk-in closet and wardrobe • Living room with sofa and vanity • Includes 2 wall-mounted TVs with “infotainment” system
Navigator Suite
Select a Date
Navigator Suite (NS)
Located: Deck 5 and 6 Occupancy: Up to 3 guests • 465 sq. ft. • Oversized private balcony with teak furnishings • Double sinks and tub • Walk-in closet and wardrobe • Living room with sofa and vanity • Includes 2 wall-mounted TVs with “infotainment” system
Included
  • 12 Breakfasts, 11 Lunches, 11 Dinners
  • 12 Nights Accommodations
  • Accommodations as listed
  • Ground transportation as listed
  • Activities as listed
  • Meals as listed
  • Access to a 24-7 Emergency line while traveling
  • Complimentary Reusable Water Bottle 
  • Pre-Paid Gratuities
  • Unlimited beverages, including fine wines, spirits and craft beers
  • Open bars and lounges, including 24-hour bar service with specialty canapes
  • Specialty coffees, teas and fresh-pressed juices
  • Champagne and gourmet canapes during meet and greet
  • 24-hour room service, including spirits, wine and beer
  • L'OCCITANE bath amenities
  • Atlas Ocean Voyages provides an Emergency Medical and Trip Delay Travel Protection plan on your behalf. The plan includes reimbursement for expenses such as trip cancellation, trip delays, baggage loss, medical situations and more.

    While not required, we strongly recommend that all our guests purchase additional travel insurance with increased maximum reimbursement. Please refer to the plan documentation at HERE for specific terms, conditions.
  • Government taxes and fees
  • Stocked in-room minibar
  • Use of walking sticks and binoculars
  • Butler service and expanded room service menu in suites
  • Afternoon and high tea
  • Shore landings by zodiac
  • Polar Plunge
  • Private charter jet service - roundtrip from Buenos Aires to Ushuaia
  • Atlas Ocean Voyages parka and vest
  • Use of knee boots
  • 1-Night Pre-Cruise Hotel Stay on Antarctica Expeditions
  • 1-Night Post-Cruise Hotel Stay on select Antarctica Expeditions
  • Cultural immersion
  • Tierra del Fuego National Park Immersion
  • Private group transfers between airport and yacht
Excluded
  • Travel Insurance
  • Personal Expenses
  • Flight costs (please request a quote)
  • Additional excursions during free time
  • Fuel and transportation surcharges (when applicable)
  • Buenos Aires Hotel tax (up to $2 per person/night) - paid at checkout
  • Port charges and fees
  • Optional excursions require additional cost

Map

Inquire

* By providing your phone number, you consent to receive direct phone calls or SMS messages from our Trip Planners to get the process started. We do not share your information with third-parties.
Change & customize to make it yours.
Travel Agents

We Love to Talk Travel

Call 1.800.344.6118
or
Chat Now
We are so glad that we chose Adventure Life. The service is top-notch. Everything is well taken care of and we just have to print the documents and go. Franny even gave us timely updates on possible airport strike.
KC Chan

Antarctica Travel Guide

Favorite Antarctica Antarctica All Trips

Top Antarctica Travel Destinations

Antarctica Trips by Departure Date

Top Experiences in Antarctica

Antarctica Trips by Duration

Antarctica Trips by Activity

More Reasons

Why Travel With Adventure Life

All News

Recognized By