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 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 you arrive early, you can spend time in the nearby Tierra del Fuego National Park, enjoy Argentinean wines and barbecues in the city, or visit the many boutiques and cafés before you leave for your expedition to Antarctica

Embarkation occurs in the late afternoon, after which your vessel sails down the historic Beagle Channel. This famous channel transects the Tierra del Fuego archipelago in the extreme south of South America. Expect an air of anticipation as you depart—the next time you see land you are in the world’s most southern continent!

Spend your first days at sea getting to know your shipmates, listening to safety briefings and insights into what excitement lies ahead, and watching for wildlife. Prepare yourself for potentially rough waters, but hope for a smooth sailing as the Drake is unpredictable and always changing.

When the Antarctic Convergence is left in your wake, you 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. You can begin to appreciate why this region has long captivated the attention of explorers and travelers alike.

Take Zodiac excursions from the ship to explore remote bays, channels, and landing sites each day. Wildlife is present all around you as you visit penguin rookeries, scout for humpback and minke whales, and search for a number of the southern seal species.

The majesty of the Peninsula’s mountains amaze you as you trek up snowy pathways to vantage points that offer 360° views of your surroundings. One of these incredible sightseeing opportunities, in Orne Harbor, invites you to visit a chinstrap penguin colony high up on a ridge. Here you have a choice between going for a mountain hike or spending time sitting quietly on a pebbled beach to enjoy the antics of the curious penguins. If you’re feeling extra adventurous, participating in the Polar Plunge swim is about as crazy as it gets!  

Every day is different, having been carefully crafted by your expedition team so as to entertain and educate you about this wonderful part of the world.

The journey back across the Drake Passage provides you with 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 after breakfast allowing for you to continue your adventure on land or catch your flights home.