Antarctic Explorer: Discovering the 7th Continent

With a population of more than 63,000 people, Ushuaia is the southernmost city in the world. The city has grown over the past few years, yet it has retained an easy going and accessible feel. With the sea to the south and mountains to the north, Ushuaia is a spectacular departure point for your Antarctic cruise. If arriving early, spend some time in the nearby Tierra del Fuego National Park, enjoy some Argentinean wines and barbecues in the city, or visit the many boutique shops and cafes before departing for Antarctica.

Embarkation occurs in the late afternoon, after which your vessel will sail down the historic Beagle Channel. This historic channel transects the Tierra del Fuego archipelago in the extreme south of South America. Expect an air of excitement upon departure - the next time seeing land will be in the world’s most southern continent!

Weather permitting, land on Cape Horn, an icon of sailing culture for centuries. The Cape Horn National Park was declared a World Biosphere Reserve by UNESCO in June 2005.

Prepare for potentially rough water, but hope for a smooth sailing as the Drake is unpredictable and always changing. Spend these first days getting to know your shipmates, while ship captains provide safety briefings and insights into what excitement lies ahead.

When the Antarctic Convergence is left in your wake, truly begin your Antarctic adventure. It is perhaps the first sight of land itself that is embraced as the true beginning of any Antarctic expedition. Begin to appreciate why this region has long captivated the attention of explorers and travelers alike. Every time your ship has visited Antarctica something new or unexpected has been witnessed, meaning your expedition will be unlike any other - creating a unique, personal experience.

Take Zodiac excursions from the ship to explore bays, channels and landing sites each day. With wildlife always at the forefront of your mind, visit penguin rookeries, scout for humpback and minke whales and search for a number of the southern seal species, including the cunning leopard seal.

The majesty of the Peninsula’s mountains enchant as you scramble up snowy pathways to vantage points offering 360° views of your surroundings. One of these in particular, in Orne Harbor, gives the opportunity to visit a chinstrap penguin colony high up on a ridge. Here choose between going for a mountain hike or spending time sitting quietly on a pebbled beach to enjoy the antics of curious penguins. If feeling extra adventurous, participating in the Polar Plunge swim is about as crazy as it gets!

Amidst the peaceful silence of Antarctica, noisy interruptions become indelible memories such as penguins squabbling over prized pebbles or the boom and crack of a calving glacier in Neko Harbor. Make a bit of noise yourself too by listening to the echo of voices bounce off a giant glacier.

Every day will be different, having been carefully crafted by your Expedition Team so as to entertain and educate on this wonderful part of the world.

The journey back across the Drake Passage provides some final opportunities to enjoy the crisp Antarctic air. Spend time on the deck watching for seabirds and scouting for whales, enjoy a few final presentations by your Expedition Team, or simply relax and reminisce about your experiences.

Arrive in Ushuaia in the morning to continue your adventure on land or catch your flight home.