South Shetland Islands and Antarctic Peninsula

Arrive in Ushuaia, Argentina — the world’s southernmost city and gateway to Antarctica. Spend the day exploring this vibrant Patagonian, wander through its nearby forests, or venture deeper into the wilderness of Tierra del Fuego on an optional excursion. This island, a haven for hikers, features rugged snow-capped peaks, glaciers, wildflower meadows, and rich wetlands teeming with life. In the afternoon, board your expedition vessel, ready and waiting at the port.

Following a mandatory safety drill, set sail through the legendary Beagle Channel, named after Charles Darwin’s famed ship. This steep-sided strait, dividing southern Tierra del Fuego between Chile and Argentina, has long served as a launch point for explorers. Keep an eye out for whales and dolphins as you sail toward the open sea and the formidable Drake Passage beyond.

As you continue your voyage, cross the legendary Drake Passage—the stretch of ocean separating Patagonia from the Antarctic Peninsula. Renowned for its powerful westerly winds, known as the Roaring Fifties, and unpredictable swells, this passage is both a challenge and a rite of passage for explorers. Aboard your purpose-built expedition vessel, equipped with stabilizers, robust engines, and an expert crew, traverse these storied waters in comfort and safety. Many seasoned mariners regard the Drake Passage as a true milestone—one you can accomplish twice on this journey.

During your days at sea, preparation begins for the adventure ahead. Your Expedition Leader will conduct detailed briefings on safety, environmental responsibility, and wildlife observation techniques. Your experienced team will also guide you through essential biosecurity procedures to protect Antarctica’s fragile ecosystem and deliver engaging lectures on the region’s history, geology, glaciology, and remarkable wildlife.

By the third day, cross the Antarctic Convergence, where cold polar waters meet the warmer currents of the Atlantic and Pacific. As the sea cools, wildlife multiplies—expect to spot albatrosses, petrels, and perhaps even penguins, seals, and whales. If weather conditions allow, make your first landfall in the South Shetland Islands, marking the exciting beginning of your exploration of the White Continent.

Over the next days, enjoy a safe and exciting Antarctic experience that explorers of yesteryear could only dream of.

Your Antarctic adventure begins in the South Shetland Islands. This chain of rugged rocks marks the northernmost point of Antarctica, and the most exposed to the fury of the Southern Ocean. Because of this, it is also one of the richest in terms of wildlife, with large Gentoo and Chinstrap Penguin colonies, and an abundance of large seabirds such as predatory Giant Petrels. The ice-clad mountains of Livingstone, Greenwich, and King George Islands give you a glimpse of what is to come as you venture further south. Landing sites in the South Shetland Islands include the black, steaming sands and rusting ruins of Deception Island (an active volcanic crater), the bustling penguin colonies of Aitcho and Half Moon Islands, or the old sealers' anchorage of Yankee Harbor.  

The following days will be spent exploring further south on the Antarctic Peninsula in the Gerlache Strait region. This region is typically icy, so your exact route will be carefully planned by the Expedition Leader and Captain; however, you aim to visit a range of sites that showcase the best of this staggeringly beautiful region.

Consisting of the 'spine' of the Antarctic Peninsula and a large number of glaciated and mountainous islands, the Gerlache Strait is what comes to mind when most people think of Antarctica. Marvel at the massive icebergs and vast glaciers on a Zodiac cruise in Paradise Bay. Be moved by penguins tenderly caring for their precious eggs, and fiercely defending their nests on Cuverville Island. Watch cataracts of ice tumble into the clear blue ocean on a hike over the active glaciers of Neko Harbor. Experience the Antarctica of old at historic huts such as Damoy Point, lovingly restored and open to all. Feel the spray of water from the blow of a humpback whale on a Zodiac safari in Wilhelmina Bay. Wonder at awe-inspiring scenery on a ship cruise through the Lemaire Channel. Wherever you go on the Antarctic Peninsula, endemic wildlife, tantalizing history, and breathtaking natural beauty abound.

While wind, ice, and sea conditions will dictate the precise destinations and timings of the expedition, the plans will be explained to guests during regularly scheduled evening briefings with the Expedition Leader. These nightly sessions serve as an excellent opportunity for guests to hear from the knowledgeable Expedition Team, who will provide insights and expand on experiences to ensure everyone gets the most from their voyage.

In Antarctica, all human activity is subject to the whims of Mother Nature. The team will make every possible effort to maximize opportunities for exploration off the vessel; however, the safety of guests and crew remains the top priority. Therefore, guests are encouraged to embrace the expedition spirit and remain flexible. Harsh weather can offer unique opportunities, such as lectures from the expert Expedition Team or the chance to enjoy the exceptional comfort of the vessels—whether through wine-tasting, relaxing in the hot tubs, or recharging with a soothing massage in the Spa.

You eventually depart Antarctica and spend two days at sea on your way northwards back across the infamous Drake Passage towards the more welcoming shores of the Beagle Channel and Ushuaia, Argentina. During your time at sea, a variety of activities will be arranged on board for a chance to reflect on your voyage. Relax with an expertly crafted cocktail in the Nordic Bar in the company of new friends, soak up the knowledge and passion of your Expedition Team during lectures in the Shackleton Lounge, or simply enjoy the flight of the albatross which accompanies you northwards. 

During your last evening onboard, join the Captain and Officers for the Farewell Cocktail Party, followed by a presentation of photos and video by your onboard photographer - the ideal opportunity to re-live your Antarctic adventure. Skål! 

On the morning of the final day of your voyage, arrive back at the pier of Ushuaia, Argentina. Trees, grass, and a busy city may seem strange to you after the white wilderness of Antarctica! After a hearty breakfast, it is time to bid a fond farewell to the Crew and Albatros Expedition Team and descend the gangway back to dry land with memories of the voyage of a lifetime.