With its nutrient-rich waters providing plenty of food for krill, fish, penguins, seals and whales, the Antarctic Peninsula is home to the continent's greatest variety and concentration of wildlife.
On this voyage we have the best of both worlds - we sample the diversity of wildlife encountered only on the Peninsula, yet travel far enough south to cross the Antarctic Circle.
The Antarctic Circle crossing, through spectacular passages to Crystal Sound, reveals major changes in the continent's land- and ice scapes, and also in the distribution and abundance of wildlife. By the end of the voyage, when the ship heads back north, you will have gained a rare understanding of Antarctica's wildlife and these southerly latitudes.
Day 1 Embark in Ushuaia
Board your ship Polar Pioneer in the afternoon, then sail down the Beagle Channel in the evening.
Day 2 Drake Passage
Overnight, weather permitting, you will have traveled into Drake Passage. During the day there is time for lectures, safety briefings and 'ocean-gazing' from the bridge or outer decks.
Day 3 Antarctic Convergence
Today you should cross the Antarctic Convergence, the biological boundary of Antarctica, and may see your first icebergs. In the evening we approach the South Shetland Islands and, if we have had a quick passage, make your first landing and perhaps your first dive (if dive option selected).
Days 4-9 Antarctic Peninsula and Antarctic Circle
For six days plan to explore the western flanks of the Antarctic Peninsula as far south as the Antarctic Circle, where the waters abound with whales at this time of the season. Hope to enter the magical Crystal Sound and, if ice conditions are favorable, to navigate a passage into Marguerite Bay through a very narrow channel called The Gullet.
Day 10 Drake Passage
From Anvers and Brabant Islands head north into the Drake Passage, past the last of the icebergs.
Day 11 At Sea
This is your last day of lectures and the final opportunity to enjoy the Southern Ocean's rich seabird life. A cruise past Cape Horn (weather permitting, of course) and a farewell dinner provide a fitting finale.
Day 12 Disembark in Ushuaia
Travel up the Beagle Channel to disembark in Ushuaia, then transfer to your hotel. The rest of the day is at leisure in the 'town at the end of the world.' You may like to visit the nearby Lapataia National Park or walk in the mountains behind the town.
Deposit & Payment
Initial deposit is $1350, and most travelers will call our office and pay the deposit with a credit card. We accept Visa, Mastercard, and Discover. Alternatively, you can send a check to our Missoula, Montana, office or register online at: https://www.adventure-life.com/mail/fourways.php
Final payment is due 100 days prior to departure, and most travelers will pay the final balance with a check, money order, or bank transfer. You can also pay the final balance by credit card, but please note there is a 3% convenience fee assessed to all credit card-not-present final payments.
Booking last minute? No problem! Please contact one of our trip planners, and we can get you on your way if booking less than 100 days prior to departure.
Click here to see a copy of our Terms and Conditions.
Cancellation Policy
| Days Prior to departure | Fee |
|---|---|
| 90 days or more | $1350 deposit |
| 0-90 days | 100% trip cost |
