Polar Circle Quest

In the afternoon, board your ship and meet your expedition team and lecturers. Once you've settled into your cabin, the vessel departs via the Beagle Channel and Mackinlay Pass. Enjoy stunning views of rugged coastlines and sea cliffs as your Antarctic journey gets underway.

Sail across the legendary Drake Passage, named after explorer Sir Francis Drake. This nutrient-rich zone, where polar and warmer waters converge, supports an abundance of wildlife, drawing seabirds like albatrosses, petrels, and shearwaters.

Make the most of your ship’s open bridge policy—join the crew to learn about navigation, watch for whales, or simply take in the endless seascape. Onboard experts will offer talks on Antarctica’s unique history, geology, and wildlife.

By Day 3, weather permitting, you’ll glimpse the South Shetland Islands—first sighted in 1819 by Captain William Smith—and may step ashore for your first close-up experience with seals and penguins.

Explore the wonders of the Antarctic Peninsula and South Shetland Islands, where towering icebergs, pristine glaciers, and dramatic landscapes define the ultimate polar wilderness.

Adventure Highlights:

Kayaking: Paddle through serene, icy waters, surrounded by sculpted icebergs, curious seals, and diving penguins.
Snowshoeing: Trek across snowy ridges and glacial terrains to reach stunning viewpoints.
Zodiac Cruises: Navigate ice-filled waters for close-up views of wildlife and ice formations.

Scenic Waterways:
Sail through some of Antarctica’s most iconic passages, such as the Gerlache Strait, Errera Channel, and Lemaire Channel, often referred to as the "Kodak Gap" for its spectacular scenery.

With over 500 diverse landing sites along the Antarctic Peninsula, no two voyages are ever the same. The expert team crafts each expedition based on conditions, weather, and opportunities for the most remarkable encounters. As passenger vessel traffic has increased in recent years, competition for landing sites has intensified—but the deep knowledge of this pristine region ensures you’ll embark on true exploratory journeys, venturing beyond the crowds.

Guided by experienced crew, you’ll navigate breathtaking ice-choked channels, witness towering glaciers, and encounter extraordinary wildlife in one of the most remote places on Earth. This is not just a cruise—it’s a genuine expedition where spontaneity and discovery define every day.
Join for an adventure where the unknown awaits, and every landing is a moment of exploration.

Wildlife enthusiasts will be thrilled by close encounters with Adélie, Gentoo, and Chinstrap Penguins, as well as crabeater, Weddell, and leopard seals. Keep an eye out for Minke, humpback, and orca whales feeding in the nutrient-rich waters. This journey sets the compass south, aiming for the elusive Polar Circle – a true expedition for explorers.

Say goodbye to the icy wilderness as you embark on your return journey across the Drake Passage. Reflect on the incredible sights and adventures of the past days. Attend final lectures and workshops or unwind on deck, keeping an eye out for seabirds and marine life. Conclude your Antarctic expedition with a farewell dinner on the final evening.

Arrive back in Ushuaia early in the morning. After breakfast, disembark your ship, taking with you memories of an unforgettable journey to the southernmost corners of the Earth.

Please note: The above itinerary is a general guideline. The precise route and activities will be adjusted to optimize wildlife viewing and adapt to prevailing weather and ice conditions. The Captain and/or Expedition Leader will make necessary changes to ensure the best possible experience. A daily program will be provided onboard. Flexibility is essential for a successful expedition.