Cruise duration: 12 days / 11 nights
Program duration: 13 days total
Pre-cruise hotel: 1 night in Buenos Aires

This expedition offers a rare opportunity to explore both sides of the Antarctic Peninsula in a single voyage, combining the remote landscapes of the Weddell Sea with the classic highlights of the western Peninsula.

After crossing the Drake Passage, the expedition begins in the Antarctic Sound and the Weddell Sea, a region known for its vast tabular icebergs, dramatic ice formations, and a more remote, untouched atmosphere. From there, the route continues to the western side of the Antarctic Peninsula, before concluding with a visit to the South Shetland Islands, prior to the return north.

You will spend up to 6 days exploring the Antarctic Peninsula region, with landings and Zodiac cruises planned whenever conditions allow. By combining the Weddell Sea with the western Peninsula, this itinerary goes beyond the classic route and offers a more complete and varied Antarctic experience.

Trip Highlights

• Explore both the eastern and western sides of the Antarctic Peninsula
• Discover the Antarctic Sound and the Weddell Sea, known for massive tabular icebergs
• Spend up to 6 days exploring the Antarctic Peninsula, conditions permitting
• Enjoy Zodiac cruises and shore landings in remote polar environments
• Visit the South Shetland Islands
• Observe Antarctic wildlife, including penguins, seals, whales, and seabirds

Day 1: Buenos Aires, Argentina (hotel night)

You may arrive in Buenos Aires at any time during Day 1 of your itinerary. Upon arriving in this splendid city, known for its rich architecture and European heritage, you will independently transfer to your group hotel, where your pre-night accommodation is included.

Day 2: Fly to Ushuaia and Embark

After breakfast at the hotel, the group transfers to the airport for a private charter flight to Ushuaia, Argentina.

Ushuaia is the gateway to the White Continent. Located at the southern tip of South America in Argentine Patagonia, it is often referred to as “the End of the World”. Surrounded by mountains and overlooking the Beagle Channel, the city offers a dramatic natural setting, along with a small but lively town featuring museums, restaurants, cafés, and pubs.

Later in the day, board your boutique expedition ship and begin your journey into one of the most captivating wilderness regions on Earth.

Day 3-4: Drake Passage

Spend the days at sea learning about your destination from the knowledgeable onboard experts while making the most of the ship’s facilities. Attend informative lectures, relax in your cabin or public spaces, take advantage of the spa and gym, and spend time on deck as you prepare for your Antarctic experience.

Day 5-6: Antarctic Sound & Weddell Sea

As you sail through the Antarctic Sound and into the Weddell Sea, you will encounter vast fields of free-floating tabular icebergs and pancake ice. The area is known for its dramatic ice formations and towering ice cliffs.

Possible landing sites include Brown Bluff and Paulet Island, where you may encounter large colonies of breeding Adélie penguins.

Day 7-9: Antarctic Peninsula

Following the exploration of the Antarctic Sound and the Weddell Sea, the expedition continues to the western side of the Antarctic Peninsula. This region offers a striking contrast of glaciers, ice-filled channels and snow-covered islands, along with excellent opportunities for Zodiac cruising, shore landings and wildlife encounters.

The area is home to several scientific research stations and iconic scenic passages such as the Lemaire Channel. Possible landing sites may include Petermann Island, where Adelie penguins, blue-eyed shags, skuas and occasionally elephant seals can be found.

Day 10: South Shetland Islands

The South Shetland Islands lie north of the Antarctic Peninsula and often experience seasonal snow melt earlier than Antarctica proper. Their slightly milder climate supports a different mix of wildlife and vegetation, including mosses, lichens, and grasses.

Depending on conditions, Zodiac landings may be possible at selected sites such as Deception Island, with its volcanic caldera and historic whaling remains, or Half Moon Island, home to chinstrap penguins and Weddell seals near the Argentine Cámara scientific station.

Day 11-12: Drake Passage

The journey back across the Drake Passage offers a final chance to take in the invigorating Antarctic air. Spend time on deck watching for seabirds and scanning the horizon for whales, attend presentations led by your Expedition Team, and reflect on the shared experiences of exploring the remarkable world of Antarctica.

Day 13: Disembark in Ushuaia and Fly to Buenos Aires

You will arrive in Ushuaia in the morning and disembark after breakfast. Transfer to the airport for the return group charter flight to Buenos Aires.

Important information: All itineraries are for guidance only. Programs may vary depending on ice, weather, and wildlife conditions. Flexibility is paramount for expedition cruises. Join us with an open mind and a sense of adventure and you’ll find that this can pay off in the most rewarding ways.