Upon arrival in Ushuaia, Argentina, the world's southernmost city. Explore Patagonia or opt for a stroll amidst the neighboring forests. For a venture beyond the ordinary, consider a day excursion to the untamed landscapes of Tierra del Fuego. This island offers a haven for avid hikers, with its rugged peaks, snow-capped mountains, glaciers, and picturesque meadows teeming with vibrant flora. In the afternoon, board the vessel, waiting to welcome you in port.

Following the essential safety briefing, the expedition commences as you glide through the serene waters of the renowned Beagle Channel, named after Charles Darwin's illustrious vessel. This narrow strait delineates southern Tierra del Fuego, serving as a historic launchpad for countless explorations. Keep a keen eye out for glimpses of majestic whales and playful dolphins as you venture into the turbulent waters of the Drake Passage, charting a course toward the unknown.

Tracing the ocean currents of the South Atlantic set course for the seldom-visited Falkland Islands (Islas Malvinas).

Though the indigenous Yaghan people of Tierra del Fuego may have traversed these islands, the Falkland Islands (Malvinas) remained uninhabited upon European arrival in the early 16th Century. Over the centuries, sovereignty disputes have ensued among Spain, France, Britain, and Argentina, eventually leading to British political control in 1840. The islands' tumultuous history peaked in a conflict between Britain and Argentina in 1982, resulting in extensive landmines that plagued the landscape until their removal in 2020, celebrated with a symbolic football match.

Despite the past, the Falklands have thrived, particularly in fishing rights sales. Its waters teem with marine life, attracting whale, seal, and penguin populations. Join the Expedition Team's lectures to delve into the island's captivating history, biology, and the unique 'Kelper' culture, or keep binoculars handy for wildlife sightings.

On the first day in the Falklands, venture to some of the outer islands in the West Falklands - 'Camp', as the locals call the area outside Stanley. The outer islands of the Falklands are much wilder and more remote than the mainland and host the majority of the islands' wildlife. Islands such as West Point, Carcass and Saunders are well known for their spectacular wildlife. Southern Rockhopper Penguins, Black-Browed Albatross, and King Cormorants commonly nest together in vast cliffside colonies; penguins nurture their eggs and chicks in clefts between large cylindrical nests where cormorants and albatross nest. Be sure to look out above to see the best albatross coming into land (often less than gracefully). The islands are home to a vast number of other bird species such as the endearingly cheeky Striated Caracara (watch all unattended possessions!), and in the water, a number of species new such as commerson's dolphins and South American sea lions can be seen playing.

During the following morning, cast anchor in the sheltered natural harbor of Port Stanley in the early afternoon. Utilizing Zodiacs, land in the center of this small city. Stanley is the only settlement on the islands of any size, with a population of around two thousand people. Behind the colorful buildings in neat rows, look closer and you'll notice a very distinctly British feel to Stanley - Victorian houses which could be on any swanky London terrace line the harbourfront; red telephone and post boxes stand by the jetty; whitewashed pubs serve fish and chips alongside foaming pints of ale. The Falkland Islanders are proud of their unique homeland and capital, and Stanley is a great place to explore and soak up the local vibe. Highlights in the city include Christchurch Cathedral, the southernmost Anglican cathedral on Earth, as well as excellent shops selling local products (watch out for high-quality woolen goods in particular!), cafes and pubs offering a warm welcome, and several excellent museums; visitors are spoiled for choice! A short drive or a pleasant walk from the city are several stunning beaches; formerly heavily mined, these are now open, and locals and foreigners alike often visit to see the abundant penguins and spectacular gold-white sands.

From the Falklands, set out eastwards again, following the furious seas towards South Georgia. Here you enter the Furious Fifties, the stretch of powerful waters marking the entry to Antarctic waters - watch the mercury drop as you sail east; now you are truly in the Antarctic. Your crossing benefits from the vessels' powerful engines, and the stability provided by the specially-designed X-Bow - making the journey in just two days!

In order to protect the extremely delicate and rich ecosystem of South Georgia, the dedicated Expedition Team assist you in biosecure your clothing and equipment, while continuing with their in-depth lecture program, now focussing on the fascinating history, biology, and wildlife of South Georgia. Be sure to wrap up warm and join your Expedition Team out on deck - this section of the South Atlantic is one of the most biologically productive on Earth and is a haven for vast quantities of wildlife - from whales and albatross to penguins and seals. Watch the waves carefully - in this region, sub-Antarctic species (such as fur seals) mingle with true polar species (such as Adelie Penguins), creating a fascinating ecological mix.

A strip of jagged mountains pierce the brooding clouds of the Southern Ocean. Icebound peaks loom over storm-washed beaches, while glaciers peek from the head of deep fjords. First believed to have been landed on by legendary explorer Captain James Cook, even to modern explorers, South Georgia presents a forbidding aura. But peer closer, and you'll see greenery among the ice; movement on the beaches; and wings in the skies above.

While it seems hard to believe today, South Georgia was once one of the most degraded environments on Earth. Hearing of the rich pickings, sealers flocked to the island after Cook, slaughtering wantonly. Once the seals had been almost exterminated, visiting ships sought larger prey, and South Georgia became the world's largest whaling destination, with several settlements built to carry out this industrialized slaughter. Whalers from Norway introduced reindeer as a game, which soon destroyed the island's native vegetation, while brown rats (accidentally introduced by Europeans and their boats) feasted upon seabirds and their eggs - a horror against which these naive birds had no defense.

Thankfully, extensive conservation (including a painstaking eradication of reindeer and rats) has restored this magnificent island to its former glory - and the glory it truly is. Beaches throng with hundreds of thousands of King Penguins, arguably some of Earth's most elegant animals. They must vie for space with the abundant Antarctic fur seals, all desperately defending territories and competing furiously for mates - and they themselves must avoid the southern elephant seals, Earth's largest seals (weighing up to a staggering four tonnes). Tiny South Georgia Pippits and Pintail Ducks (once almost extinct) are now abundant, and petrels, albatross, and shags nest on the steep hillsides and wheel in the air above. In the sea, leopard seals stalk for their next penguin meal, fur seal pups play in the shallows, and offshore, a huge variety of whale species gorge on krill. Nowhere else on Earth can boast such a diversity of wildlife, or in such quantities; South Georgia truly has to be experienced to be believed. 
 
As in Antarctica, the exact itinerary can be dictated by weather and sea conditions, but especially by the wind and swell - nevertheless, the experienced Expedition Team and Captain work their hardest to maximize opportunities to explore. Options include visiting the vast penguin colonies of Salisbury Plain and St Andrew's Bay, seeing the former whaling stations of Lieth and Stromness, drinking in the scenery and seal colonies of Gold Harbour, or exploring this island's fascinating exploration heritage at Grytviken (where legendary explorer Sir Ernest Shackleton is buried). South Georgia is one of those locations that grabs hold of the senses and never lets go; even long after departure, the jewel of the South Atlantic captivates visitors for years to come.

Now comes the time to cross the famed Drake Passage - the body of water separating Patagonia and the Antarctic Peninsula. The Drake Passage is known for rollicking conditions and strong westerly winds - the Furious Fifties and the Screaming Sixties. While this passage may be challenging, you can rest comfortably aboard the expedition vessels, which are purpose-built with stabilizers, and powerful engines and manned by a highly qualified crew. The most spirited sailors consider the Drake Passage a lifetime achievement - and you'll complete the crossing twice!

The days in the Drake Passage can be put to good use preparing for the arrival in Antarctica - your Expedition Leader briefs you comprehensively on how to stay safe and minimize your impact on this precious wilderness, as well as briefing you thoroughly on the plans for the time spent exploring, including hints and tips for wildlife watching. The dedicated Expedition Team again assists you in biosecure your clothing and equipment, as well as sharing tailored lectures on Antarctic exploration history, wildlife, geology, glaciology, and more!

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

The Antarctic adventure begins in the South Shetland Islands, a chain of rugged rocks marking the northernmost point of Antarctica. 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. Landing sites that may be visited 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 Harbour.

The following days can be spent exploring further south on the Antarctic Peninsula in the Gerlache Strait region. This region is typically icy, so the exact route can be subject to careful planning by the Expedition Leader and Captain and explained to the guests through regular evening briefings. However, 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 Harbour. 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.

On Antarctica, all human activity is subject to the whims of Mother Nature. While you make every possible effort to maximize opportunities for exploration of the vessel, the safety of the guests and crew is the top priority. Therefore, ask all the guests to join the expedition spirit and be flexible - harsh weather offers the opportunity to expand your knowledge of Antarctica with lectures from the expert Expedition Team, or to enjoy the superlative comfort of the vessels, be it wine-tasting, relaxing in the hot tubs, or recharging with a relaxing massage in the Polar Spa.

Eventually depart Antarctica, and spend two days at sea on the way northwards back across the infamous Drake Passage towards the more welcoming shores of the Beagle Channel and Ushuaia, Argentina. During the time at sea, a variety of activities can be arranged on board to provide guests with the chance to reflect on their voyage. Relax with an expertly crafted cocktail in the Nordic Bar in the company of new friends, soak up the knowledge and passion of the Expedition Team during lectures in the Shackleton Lounge, or simply enjoy the flight of the albatross that 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 the onboard photographer - the ideal opportunity to re-live your Antarctic adventure. Skål!

On the morning of the final day of the 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.