Crossing the Circle: Southern Expedition

Antarctica is everything south of the Antarctic convergence, a biological boundary that fluctuates between 50° and 60° South. For some, an expedition to the Southern Continent is not complete unless the Antarctic Circle is crossed. South of that invisible boundary, daylight lasts for 24 hours from mid-December to late February. Overnight at a hotel in Ushuaia.

Crossing the Circle is the goal of this expedition. So, on some departures, the ship will push south rapidly, from Ushuaia.

The Drake is legendary for its high winds and rolling seas, but you may be lucky and get calm weather. If so, you’ll be kept busy on deck, on the Bridge and in the presentation room. You will be prepared for boarding Zodiacs, shore landings and, if you dare, polar dips.

The Expedition Team launches the Zodiacs to skim across the water to go ashore, or drift silently while you watch whales feed or penguins jump aboard ice floes.

Crossing the Antarctic Circle is an impressive achievement, as most expeditions to the Peninsula do not reach 66° 33’S. Celebrate with a well -earned glass of champagne. Toast to the intrepid explorers who have gone before.

There’s a story behind every name on the map of Antarctica. Many of the French names that appear are the legacy of Jean-Baptiste Charcot, physician, yachtsman, and explorer. He, like you, lived for adventure.

As you cross the Drake once again, you’ll have time to adjust to a world where day and night are distinct. You will be transferred to the airport from the ship when you disembark in Ushuaia.