Ultimate Antarctic Adventure

Board the expedition vessel in the afternoon and meet the crew and fellow travelers. Once settled into the cabin, the ship departs along the scenic Beagle Channel. Enjoy the first evening at sea as the southernmost edge of South America fades from sight.

Begin the Antarctic journey by crossing the Drake Passage, a wide expanse of ocean marking the Antarctic Convergence, where nutrient-rich waters support an abundance of wildlife.

During the voyage, join expert-led presentations on Antarctica’s history, wildlife, and geology. Step out onto the open decks or visit the bridge to watch for albatrosses, petrels, and possibly whales. Take part in navigation workshops and safety briefings for activities such as kayaking and snowshoeing.

By the end of Day 3, the first glimpses of icebergs and snow-covered peaks announce your arrival at the South Shetland Islands.

The core of the journey unfolds as you explore the Antarctic Peninsula and South Shetland Islands, with each day offering a blend of landings, zodiac cruises, and optional adventure activities.

Kayaking Among Icebergs - Paddle through tranquil waters, drifting past seals resting on ice floes and penguins diving in for a swim.
Snowshoeing Adventures - Explore pristine trails and reach panoramic viewpoints offering breathtaking vistas of glaciers and peaks.
Penguin Colonies - Visit expansive rookeries of Gentoo, Chinstrap, and Adélie Penguins, watching their amusing behaviors as they care for their chicks.
Wildlife Encounters - Spot Weddell, crabeater, and leopard seals on ice, with Minke and humpback whales often seen feeding nearby.

With over 500 diverse landing sites along the Antarctic Peninsula, no two voyages are ever the same. The expert team crafts each expedition based on conditions, weather, and opportunities for the most remarkable encounters.

Guided by the experienced crew, you'll navigate breathtaking ice-choked channels, witness towering glaciers, and encounter extraordinary wildlife in one of the most remote places on Earth. This is not just a cruise — it's a genuine expedition where spontaneity and discovery define every day.

Disembark the RMS St Helena and join just five other guests aboard the small sailing ship Icebird - a sturdy, expedition-equipped yacht built for polar conditions. On board the Icebird, enjoy a five-night yacht expedition into some of the Antarctic Peninsula’s more remote waters.  For these six days, immerse yourself fully in Antarctica’s wild side:

Sailing deep - Venture into narrow channels, secluded bays, and remote anchorages unreachable by larger vessels.
Zodiac excursions & Guided Hikes - Daily landings on untouched beaches and explore stunning glaciers.
Flexible daily program - Follow the best conditions and maximize your exploration, with the freedom to stay longer where nature calls.
Evenings Aboard Icebird - Hearty meals, incredible photography sessions, and the rare camaraderie of a true micro-expedition.

This part of the expedition becomes more flexible, more personal, and far removed from the crowds.

Back aboard the RMS St Helena again, continue to explore the Antarctic Peninsula and South Shetland Islands, with each new day offering a blend of landings, zodiac cruises, and optional adventure activities.

Kayaking Among Icebergs - Paddle through tranquil waters, drifting past seals resting on ice floes and penguins diving in for a swim.
Snowshoeing Adventures - Explore pristine trails and reach panoramic viewpoints offering breathtaking vistas of glaciers and peaks.
Penguin Colonies - Visit expansive rookeries of Gentoo, Chinstrap, and Adélie Penguins, watching their amusing behaviors as they care for their chicks.
Wildlife Encounters - Spot Weddell, crabeater, and leopard seals on ice, with Minke and humpback whales often seen feeding nearby.

With over 500 diverse landing sites along the Antarctic Peninsula, no two voyages are ever the same. The expert team crafts each expedition based on conditions, weather, and opportunities for the most remarkable encounters.

Guided by the experienced crew, you'll navigate breathtaking ice-choked channels, witness towering glaciers, and encounter extraordinary wildlife in one of the most remote places on Earth. This is not just a cruise — it's a genuine expedition where spontaneity and discovery define every day.

As the expedition heads back north, there's an opportunity for a final landing or zodiac cruise. Weather and ice conditions permitting, explore destinations like Brown Bluff, where towering cliffs and an Adélie penguin colony await, or Paulet Island, home to historic sites and abundant wildlife.

 

Relive the journey north — final lectures, seabird spotting, and a celebratory dinner.

Arrive back in Ushuaia — disembark with stories to last a lifetime.

Please note: The above itinerary is a general guideline. The precise route and activities are adjusted to optimize wildlife viewing and adapt to prevailing weather and ice conditions. The Captain and/or Expedition Leader makes necessary changes to ensure the best possible experience. A daily program is provided on board. Flexibility is essential for a successful expedition. Please note facilities onboard Icebird are shared, and a different category of vessel to the RMS St Helena. Itinerary is 19 to 20 days and varies in days due to operating schedules.