Antarctic Peninsula In Depth

This morning, enjoy breakfast and leave your bags in reception to be taken to your cruise later today. You also have the opportunity to visit Lake Escondido before heading out to the Antarctic Peninsula. This offers a panoramic drive through big valleys of glacial origin, evergreen and deciduous forests, waterfalls and rivers, in the vastness of the Andes Mountain Range. After appreciating the landscape, you have the chance to enjoy a typical Fuegian Lamb barbecue. Enjoy some free time before returning to Ushuaia for ship embarkation.

Once onboard, you have time to settle into your cabin before mandatory ship briefings. As the ship pulls away from port, gather on the deck to commence the adventure with spectacular views over Ushuaia and Tierra del Fuego before dinner at sea.

The next two days are at sea, crossing the Drake Passage. So, make the most of your time getting comfortable with the motions of the sea. The expedition team prepares you for your first landing with important wildlife guidelines and biosecurity procedures, and starts the lecture programme to help you learn more about Antarctica’s history, wildlife and environment.

Over the next two days, your wildlife experience begins. So, enjoy watching and photographing the many seabirds, including majestic albatrosses and giant petrels, following the vessel. On sea days, you can enjoy the facilities on board the vessel, including the gym, sauna and Jacuzzis - or relax in one of the observation lounges.

Nearing the South Shetland Islands and the tip of the Antarctic Peninsula on the afternoon of day seven, the excitement is palpable with everyone converging on one of the observation decks watching for the first iceberg. The ocean takes on a whole new perspective once below the Antarctic Convergence, surrounded by the surreal presence of floating ice sculptures. Time and weather permitting, there may be a chance to attempt a first landing in Antarctica by late afternoon.

Spend five unforgettable days exploring the pristine landscapes of Antarctica. Towering glaciers, sculpted icebergs and snow-covered mountains provide a spectacular backdrop as you cruise through sheltered bays and narrow channels.

Twice-daily Zodiac excursions and guided shore landings offer opportunities to visit bustling penguin colonies, observe seals hauled out on the ice and, depending on the season, watch for humpback, minke and orca whales. Your experienced expedition team will tailor each day's activities to take advantage of the prevailing weather and ice conditions, ensuring every voyage is unique.