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Adele Penguin King of the Hill

Exploring the Last Continent

Roundtrip Ushuaia - Example 12 Day Cruise aboard World Traveller
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This 12-day Exploring the Last Continent aboard the World Traveller begins in Ushuaia, Argentina. After setting sail, you cross the iconic Drake Passage. The first encounter with Antarctica begins at the South Shetland Islands, a chain of islands with wildlife and volcanic scenery. Possible stops include Deception Island, known for its sands and black volcanic beaches, or Elephant Island, famous for its role in Shackleton’s historic expedition. From there, travelers go to the Antarctic Peninsula, where each day brings fresh adventures. With the Captain’s guidance, set foot on icy shores, admire glaciers, and observe penguin colonies. Zodiac excursions offer up-close encounters with seals, whales, and other wildlife. Travelers return across the Drake Passage before ending the cruise back in Ushuaia.
Penguin colony near UshuaiaThe wildlife was so abundant it was difficult to land.Elephant Island, AntarticaElephant Island, AntarticaChinstrap penguins chasing each other across the volcanic landscapeWhaler's Bay greeting team at Deception Island!Adele Penguin King of the Hill
Highlights
  • Cross the iconic Drake Passage, known for its strong currents and marine life
  • Explore South Shetland Islands, home to wildlife and volcanic landscapes
  • Possible stops at Deception Island’s volcanic beaches and Elephant Island
  • Explore the Antarctic Peninsula with daily Captain-guided adventures
Activity Level: Relaxed
Involves minimal physical effort and is typically associated with leisurely activities. Activities are low-intensity or last less than a few hours each day.
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Full Itinerary

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Day 1: Buenos Aires, Argentina

Arrive 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 in the morning to catch your flight from Buenos Aires to Ushuaia. The transportation from your hotel to the airport will be arranged for you.

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.

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: Exploring the South Shetland Islands - 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 will sail around changing weather conditions as needed and take you to the best areas for wildlife viewing.

Day 6-9: Exploring the Antarctica Peninsula - 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 — 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 our 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 10-11: 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.

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 12: Ushuaia, Argentina | Disembark

  • 1 Breakfast
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.

Ship/Hotel

World Traveller

World Traveller cruising
World Traveller side view
Dining

Buenos Aires - Hotels

Dates & Prices

My Preferred Start Date

Per person starting at
$11,299 2-3 travelers
Adventure Oceanview Stateroom
Adventure Oceanview Stateroom (AO)
Located: Deck 3 Occupancy: Up to 2 guests • 183 sq. ft. • Sitting area with chair, desk and TV
Horizon Stateroom
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
  • 11 Breakfasts, 10 Lunches, 10 Dinners
  • 11 Nights Accommodations
  • Accommodations as listed
  • Ground transportation as listed
  • Activities as listed
  • Meals as listed
  • Access to a 24-7 Emergency line while traveling
  • Pre-Paid Gratuities
  • Unlimited beverages, including fine wines, spirits and craft beers
  • Open bars and lounges, including 24-hour bar service with specialty canapes
  • In-room minibar with your preferences
  • 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.
  • Shore landings by zodiac
  • Polar Plunge
  • Atlas Ocean Voyages parka and vest
  • Use of knee boots
  • 1-Night Pre-Cruise Hotel Stay on Antarctica Expeditions
  • Private Charter Jet Service
  • Cultural 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)
  • Port charges and fees
  • Optional excursions require additional cost

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Our guide and driver were very good with their knowledge and were very helpful with our questions. It was a very pleasant visit that would have been impossible to do on our own. Hotels and restaurants were fantastic. The special places we got to go to, like the kitchens, were great. Enjoyed the entire trip!
Meyer Smolen

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