Sail on this 15-day Antarctic Holiday Discovery exploration cruise from Ushuaia and back aboard World Voyager. As travelers cross the famous Drake Passage, keep an eye out for hourglass dolphins. Then, explore the South Shetland Islands and the Antarctic Peninsula with daily landings and complimentary zodiac safaris led by a world-class expedition team. Watch for penguins hatching from late December to January, or search for orcas, mikes, sperm whales, and humpback whales from January to March.
Highlights
Navigate the intrepid Drake Passage guided by petrels and albatrosses
Discover hidden gems like Beak Island, Brown Bluff, Cierva Cove, and more
Explore the South Shetland Islands and view wildlife and scenic landscapes
Experience Deception Island's volcanic caldera, heated springs, and more
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.
Arrive at any time in Buenos Aires, and check into your hotel by 3 or 4 p.m. The rest of the afternoon is free for you to do as you please before resting up for your journey the next day.
Wake up early this morning to catch your charter flight from Buenos Aires to Ushuaia, which departs between 7:30 and 8:00 a.m.; 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.
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 5-6: Exploring the Antarctic 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.
King George Island has come to be known as the unofficial capital of Antarctica with its various research stations located on the island. As a haven for an incredible amount of wildlife, including chinstrap and Gentoo penguins, and elephant, leopard, and Weddell seals, it’s a prime locale for scientific research. If your expedition begins or ends here, then your charter flight lands in or departs from Eduardo Frei Montalva Station, the Chilean air base for Antarctica expeditions with flight options over the Drake Passage. Lying within the Fildes Peninsula, where Chile laid claim to Antarctic territory, the base is an important research station. Made up of over 40 buildings that include a school, bank, hospital, and post office, it resembles more a small village than a base.
Spend the day on the high seas pampering yourself at the spa or enjoying some time on deck. Mingle with your fellow explorers and swap stories of your exploits, making plans for new ones together once you get to shore
Day 9: Exploring the South Orkney Islands - Captain’s Choice, Antarctica
In 1821, British and American sealers George Powell and Nathaniel Palmer discovered the South Orkney Islands, lying south of the Antarctic Peninsula. While snow falls on the islands for most of the year and the landscape consists mostly of rock and ice, these islands are still rife with wildlife. Seabirds are found in abundance here, especially the beautiful snow petrel, a species that can be elusive, so keep a close eye on the skies for this enchanting bird. If you land on Coronation Island, you may catch sight of the snow petrel, as this is its main breeding ground. From December to January, Weddell seals can be found swimming throughout the icy surrounding waters. Other possible landings may include Laurie Island, Signy Island and Shingle Cove.
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: At Sea
1 Breakfast, 1 Lunch, 1 Dinner
Spend the day on the high seas pampering yourself at the spa or enjoying some time on deck. Mingle with your fellow explorers and swap stories of your exploits, making plans for new ones together once you get to shore
Day 11-12: Exploring the South Sandwich Islands – Captain’s Choice
2 Breakfasts, 2 Lunches, 2 Dinners
Rich in nutrients for marine life, the waters surrounding the South Sandwich Islands bring an incredible array of wildlife, from chinstrap penguins to humpback whales. Amid the volcanic landscapes, macaroni and Gentoo penguins hop along their trails, a sight that inspires you to take a moment for whimsy. Home to penguins in the millions, you will find wildlife adventures abound as you explore these remote reaches of the Earth. Gliding through the waters, fin whales may breach the surface to greet you and roll over for a show not soon to be forgotten. Far removed from the bustle of everyday life, you and your fellow explorers will become immersed in the pristine majesty of nature guided by an expert expedition team. As the only sounds of whistling wind, the rush of the sea and bird calls are all that surround you, it’s easy to fall in love with your world.
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 13: At Sea
1 Breakfast, 1 Lunch, 1 Dinner
14Spend the day on the high seas pampering yourself at the spa or enjoying some time on deck. Mingle with your fellow explorers and swap stories of your exploits, making plans for new ones together once you get to shore
Day 14-15: Drake Passage Navigation
2 Breakfasts, 2 Lunches, 2 Dinners
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 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. 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 will 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 16: Ushuaia, Argentina
1 Breakfast
Although its nickname 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.
Apologies for the inconvenience. Prices for not yet published. Below per person rate based on previous season. Contact us to confirm upcoming season pricing.
Prices for are estimated based on inflation. Contact us to confirm pricing and availability for your desired departure date.
$25,9992-3 travelers
Rates are subject to change without notice. Book early to get the best rate.
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
Initial deposit is $1000/pp for stateroom and/or $1500/pp for suite rooms, and most travelers will call our office and pay the deposit with a credit card.
Final payment is due 130 days prior to departure by Credit Card, Wire/bank Transfer
Beyond expectations! Then again we weren't sure what to expect. Lovely stay at the lodge, met other like-minded travelers (many had their trips planned by Adventure Life) and the owner was a gracious hostess. It felt like you were one happy family, visiting with a favorite aunt.
Nancy Sin
TrustScore 4.9 | 198 reviews
TrustScore 4.9 of 5
Based on 198 reviews on
33 minutes ago
We had an excellent experience with Adventure Life. This was our second trip with them and we have a third in process. Our trip to Vietnam and Asia were well planned, great accommodations and very good guides. Everything went smoothly.
Colorado Traveler
4 hours ago
This is the second trip we’ve booked through Adventure Life and Jane was very helpful in finding a great price for our adventure.
Michael Mechsner
4 hours ago
Mary always does an outstanding job... and this trip planning was no exception. She always brings a high level of quality customer service to any question or request we pose.
Linda Bird
4 days ago
We loved the experience of travelling on a small boat with 28 other passengers. The itinerary was excellent, usually including two stops per day at different Croatian islands and only 2-3 hours of sailing. Each of the stops were beautiful; the islands were all unique and memorable and no two stops were the same.
Vivian Howard
1 week ago
Just as she did last time we booked with Adventure Life, Franny really listened to what we wanted for our trip and went the extra mile to help us build the perfect itinerary.