Antarctica
Antarctic Polar Circle
Antarctica
Antarctica
Venture far south on an extended 14-day expedition with 12 nights on board. Cross the fabled Drake Passage, explore the South Shetland Islands, and achieve the mythical Antarctic Circle at 66°33'S.
Duration: 14 days / 12 nights on board
Starts: Ushuaia, Argentina
Ends: Ushuaia, Argentina
Language: English speaking voyage
The itinerary is a guide only and is subject to change due to weather and ice conditions. Your Captain and Expedition Leader will make the necessary adjustments to ensure the best possible experience.
Ship Cruise More info about this activity
Not only we travel from one point to another and find our shelter on board the ship we chose. We also enjoy from incredible scenery, landscapes and interactions that only our noble vessel can provide.
Everyday the Bridge Team navigates the ship to position ourselves on the best posible spots, looking for unique opportunities.
Many times, this includes sainig through narrow passages, on the vicinity of glaciers or entering bays and fjords only approachable from the ship.
Enjoy this incredible places from the comfort of the common areas on board, open decks or your own private balcony!
Shore Excursion More info about this activity
Shore excursions are the backbone of almost all itineraries, with most ships making landfall at least once every day once they reach their destination. The weather plays a huge role in your daily itinerary, although given the sheer array of fantastic landing sites all over there are plenty of options your Captain and Expedition Leader can choose from. On-shore excursions allow you to visit scientific research stations, communities, prominent wildlife colonies and take hikes to elevated viewing points for fantastic photography.
Photo Workshop More info about this activity
The photography workshops are composed of onboard lectures and practical activities led by dedicated expedition guide. Each session is meant to give you additional skills you can put into immediate practice out in nature.
You'll become more familiar with your own camera equipment while also learning best practices for taking pictures of moving wildlife and wide-open terrain in typical polar conditions, such as dim lighting and falling snow.
Zodiac cruising More info about this activity
On board the Zodiac you will discover a world of possibilities; accessing the most exclusive landing sites, cruising the coast in search of wildlife or simply enjoying a tour in the calm of the polar regions in search of marine wildlife or bird colonies.
The blue ice an its intimate presence is experienced at its best on zodiac tours.
It is not uncommon to meet curious seals, or humpback whales feeding.
Enrichment Program More info about this activity
Expedition cruising must be one of the most incredible ways of travelling. Not only for the amazing places you visit and the unforgetable wildlife but for the wildlife, the sensory overload and the unimaginable memories.
But all of this needs a context in order to understand where you are and what you are experiencing.
On board your expedition vessell you will find a group of experts, naturalists, zodiac drivers and guides that that will translate the language of nature for you, telling you the stories of the places you are visiting, reviewing the historical, biological, ecological and geological aspects of your trips.
You will experience first hand what surrounds you and arrive back home wiser and loaded with new knowledge.
Citizen Science More info about this activity
There’s important work being done every day, at some of the most renowned climate research facilities around the world, to record and study the incredible changes happening in remote places like Antarctica and th Arctic. As you might imagine, gathering critical on-site data on a regular basis would be a virtually impossible task for these groups. So we do it for them, in partnership with different research facilities.
If you’d like to get a first-hand look at how climate change is impacting our birds, sea life, glaciers, oceans, and weather patterns, and help scientists better understand our evolving planet, you’re welcome to join our Citizen Science program. And don’t let the word “science” scare you. We make it informative, interactive, and fun.
Hiking More info about this activity
Hiking options include very easy beach hikes (good for photographers who need time for photography), easier short hikes, medium-difficulty extended hikes, and more challenging long hikes.
Kayaking More info about this activity
The experience of sea kayaking in the humbling wilderness of Antarctica or the Arctic is guaranteed to stir your soul.
Sea kayaking is one of the highlights for any Polar Traveller, providing ice and weather conditions are assessed as safe by your Expedition Team.
This activity requires previous kayaking experience.
This extended polar expedition invites travelers to venture deep into the pristine southern reaches of the Antarctic Peninsula, adding an extra day to maximize exploration in this magical destination. Sailing south from Ushuaia, the voyage crosses the fabled Drake Passage to reach the South Shetland Islands, a volcanic archipelago displaying spectacular mountains, massive glaciers, and shores populated by Gentoo and Chinstrap penguins. This active journey combines coastal Zodiac cruising and kayaking with structured walks on land, providing a fully immersive introduction to an environment rich in marine mammals, predatory petrels, and fur seals.
The core of the odyssey unfolds along the Gerlache Strait, exploring iconic locations of staggering natural beauty. Guests will enjoy twice-daily excursions, from Zodiac cruises into Paradise Bay to witnessing nesting penguins on Cuverville Island. Discover historic huts at Damoy Point, watch for humpback and orca whales in Wilhelmina Bay, and navigate through the jaw-dropping scenery of the Lemaire Channel. Weather permitting, the ultimate goal is to cross the Antarctic Circle at 66°33’S, achieving a rare feat. On the return leg, explore the active volcanic crater of Deception Island and the historic anchorage of Yankee Harbour, supported by enrichment lectures and real-world Citizen Science workshops.
Highlights:
Cross the legendary Antarctic Circle at 66°33'S and join a rare band of polar explorers.
Enjoy double daily excursions including scenic Zodiac cruising in Paradise Bay and Cuverville Island.
Discover the historical polar huts at Damoy Point and track humpback whales in Wilhelmina Bay.
Explore the eerie volcanic landscape, black steaming sands, and rusting ruins of Deception Island.
Contribute to real-world environmental research through our pioneering Citizen Science program.
Day 1: Arrive and Explore in Ushuaia
Welcome to the breathtaking landscapes of Patagonia
After a friendly welcome at the airport, we'll transfer you to one of our partnered premium hotel resorts nestled in the breathtaking Patagonian nature, where you can take some time to unwind or go explore the southernmost city in the world, Ushuaia. Our optional evening briefing is your opportunity to ask questions and meet some of your fellow explorers.
Day 2: All Aboard!
Embarkation and departure under the golden Arctic sun
Spend your morning relaxing at the hotel, visiting a museum, or exploring the shops in Ushuaia, before our mid-afternoon escort to the ship. Our Expedition Team and ship staff will welcome you on board and get you settled in, followed by a safety and orientation briefing and our Captain’s welcome dinner. We’re on our way to Antarctica!
Day 3–4: Drake Passage
Crossing the Antarctic Convergence with our Polar Experts
Join our Polar Experts as they share their vast knowledge of Antarctica, from its enchanting wildlife to its bold history. Participate in our pioneering Citizen Science program or sit back and take in this fabled journey while catching glimpses of rarely seen wildlife. Keep your binoculars handy to identify the many seabirds that escort our ship as we cross the Antarctic Convergence into Antarctica’s waters and noticeably cooler temperatures.
Day 5: South Shetland Islands
Volcanic geology, nesting penguin colonies, and Zodiac cruising
Over time, the volcanic activity of the South Shetland Islands has created a geology unlike any other. Here, you can expect a spectacular display of mountains, glaciers, and wildlife, including Chinstrap and Gentoo penguins, and it’s not uncommon to share the water’s edge with Elephant and Fur seals. Whales are often spotted as well. So, we’ll settle into our Zodiacs and kayaks and spend most of our day exploring. Whether on land or sea, in Zodiac or kayak, be prepared for a fully immersive introduction to this incomparable part of the world.
Day 6–9: Achieving the Antarctic Circle
Gerlache Strait explorations and crossing the 66°33'S line
We venture west along the Antarctic Peninsula into the Gerlache Strait region, exploring a variety of sites highlighting the area’s staggering natural beauty. Iconic experiences await on our twice-daily excursions. From Zodiac cruises into Paradise Bay to witnessing penguins nesting on Cuverville Island, each potential stop promises awe-inspiring encounters. We’ll explore historic huts at Damoy Point, keep an eye out for humpback whales in Wilhelmina Bay, and continue south until we reach the crown jewel of this expedition, the jaw-dropping scenery through the Lemaire Channel. Weather permitting, we’ll cross the Antarctic Circle at 66°33’S, an achievement that will put you in rare company.
Day 10–11: South Shetland Islands
Deception Island volcanic shores and historic Yankee Harbour
This archipelago represents the northernmost tip of Antarctica, standing proud against the relentless force of the Southern Ocean. The ice-capped peaks of Livingstone, Greenwich, and King George Islands offer a stunning backdrop to explore. And despite the furious elements, the islands boast a remarkable richness of wildlife, with numerous colonies of Gentoo and Chinstrap Penguins dotting the island shores, accompanied by an array of formidable seabirds like the predatory Giant Petrels. Weather permitting, we’ll explore the eerie landscape of Deception Island, an active volcanic crater with black steaming sands and rusting ruins, and immerse ourselves in the history of Yankee Harbour, once a vital anchorage for sealers.
Days 12–13: Drake Passage
Northbound navigation and final digital memento slideshow
We leave this magical place and make our way north, once again heading across the Antarctic Convergence and the Drake Passage. We have one last hurrah as we celebrate the conclusion of our expedition with a special slideshow and a final meal together.
Day 14: Ushuaia Disembarkation
Morning disembarkation and final travel connections
With huge smiles on weary, content faces, we disembark in the morning, letting you catch a flight to Buenos Aires or stay in Ushuaia for more sights and adventure.
Day 1: Arrive and Explore in Ushuaia
Welcome to the breathtaking landscapes of Patagonia
After a friendly welcome at the airport, we'll transfer you to one of our partnered premium hotel resorts nestled in the breathtaking Patagonian nature, where you can take some time to unwind or go explore the southernmost city in the world, Ushuaia. Our optional evening briefing is your opportunity to ask questions and meet some of your fellow explorers.
Day 2: All Aboard!
Embarkation and departure under the golden Arctic sun
Spend your morning relaxing at the hotel, visiting a museum, or exploring the shops in Ushuaia, before our mid-afternoon escort to the ship. Our Expedition Team and ship staff will welcome you on board and get you settled in, followed by a safety and orientation briefing and our Captain’s welcome dinner. We’re on our way to Antarctica!
Day 3–4: Drake Passage
Crossing the Antarctic Convergence with our Polar Experts
Join our Polar Experts as they share their vast knowledge of Antarctica, from its enchanting wildlife to its bold history. Participate in our pioneering Citizen Science program or sit back and take in this fabled journey while catching glimpses of rarely seen wildlife. Keep your binoculars handy to identify the many seabirds that escort our ship as we cross the Antarctic Convergence into Antarctica’s waters and noticeably cooler temperatures.
Day 5: South Shetland Islands
Volcanic geology, nesting penguin colonies, and Zodiac cruising
Over time, the volcanic activity of the South Shetland Islands has created a geology unlike any other. Here, you can expect a spectacular display of mountains, glaciers, and wildlife, including Chinstrap and Gentoo penguins, and it’s not uncommon to share the water’s edge with Elephant and Fur seals. Whales are often spotted as well. So, we’ll settle into our Zodiacs and kayaks and spend most of our day exploring. Whether on land or sea, in Zodiac or kayak, be prepared for a fully immersive introduction to this incomparable part of the world.
Day 6–9: Achieving the Antarctic Circle
Gerlache Strait explorations and crossing the 66°33'S line
We venture west along the Antarctic Peninsula into the Gerlache Strait region, exploring a variety of sites highlighting the area’s staggering natural beauty. Iconic experiences await on our twice-daily excursions. From Zodiac cruises into Paradise Bay to witnessing penguins nesting on Cuverville Island, each potential stop promises awe-inspiring encounters. We’ll explore historic huts at Damoy Point, keep an eye out for humpback whales in Wilhelmina Bay, and continue south until we reach the crown jewel of this expedition, the jaw-dropping scenery through the Lemaire Channel. Weather permitting, we’ll cross the Antarctic Circle at 66°33’S, an achievement that will put you in rare company.
Day 10–11: South Shetland Islands
Deception Island volcanic shores and historic Yankee Harbour
This archipelago represents the northernmost tip of Antarctica, standing proud against the relentless force of the Southern Ocean. The ice-capped peaks of Livingstone, Greenwich, and King George Islands offer a stunning backdrop to explore. And despite the furious elements, the islands boast a remarkable richness of wildlife, with numerous colonies of Gentoo and Chinstrap Penguins dotting the island shores, accompanied by an array of formidable seabirds like the predatory Giant Petrels. Weather permitting, we’ll explore the eerie landscape of Deception Island, an active volcanic crater with black steaming sands and rusting ruins, and immerse ourselves in the history of Yankee Harbour, once a vital anchorage for sealers.
Days 12–13: Drake Passage
Northbound navigation and final digital memento slideshow
We leave this magical place and make our way north, once again heading across the Antarctic Convergence and the Drake Passage. We have one last hurrah as we celebrate the conclusion of our expedition with a special slideshow and a final meal together.
Day 14: Ushuaia Disembarkation
Morning disembarkation and final travel connections
With huge smiles on weary, content faces, we disembark in the morning, letting you catch a flight to Buenos Aires or stay in Ushuaia for more sights and adventure.
INCLUSIONS
Arrival transfer to ship (Day 1).
General description: Shipboard en-suite accommodation (days/nights as per itinerary) in your selected and paid category
Waterproof Expedition jacket, yours to keep, and rubber style muck boots on loan for the duration of your expedition
English-speaking Expedition Team
Guided walks, nature hikes, Zodiac landings and excursions, as per itinerary, guided by our Expedition Team (excluding optional activities with cost)
Briefings and educational lectures by the Expedition Team
Citizen Science Program
All meals on the ship (full board): breakfast, lunch, dinner, and snacks
Complimentary house wine, beer, and soft drinks at dinner (selected labels and brands)
From 2027: Complimentary house wine, beer, and soft drinks at lunch and dinner (selected labels and brands. Wine excluded at lunch)
24-hour access to tea, coffee, and ‘Grab and Go’ comfort food
Welcome and Farewell Cocktail Parties
Taxes and landing fees
1GB Complimentary WiFi for use on your personal device
Digital Expedition Memento, including a curated selection of photos, videos, expedition log and map, and wildlife list
Exclusive Suite Inclusions: Available on Ocean Albatros: Junior Suite (Cat A), Balcony Suite (Cat B), Brynhilde Suite & Freydis Suite only, and Ocean Victory: Junior Suite (Cat A), Balcony Suite (Cat B) & Freydis Suite only: Wine and fruit platter on arrival, restocked in-suite mini bar (non-alcoholic) and complimentary laundry service throughout your expedition
EXCLUSIONS
International or internal airfares unless listed in the itinerary
Excursions and activities not mentioned in the itinerary
Meals and beverages not listed as included
Voluntary gratuity for the crew and Expedition Team (we recommend USD 20 per person per day)
Personal expenses such as spa services, boutique purchases, bar, laundry, and communications unless specified
Mandatory travel insurance (must meet mandatory minimum coverage requirements for medical treatment and evacuation)
Visa, reciprocity, and passport fees
Medical care or emergency evacuation
Expedition Jacket and rubber muck-style boots outside of available sizes. Please enquire for more details.
Life jackets for selected minors. Please enquire for more details.
Anything not mentioned under ’Inclusions”
Post-voyage airport transfer
Located on Deck 3, Porthole Staterooms provide a cozy and practical base for exploration. Two classic portholes bring in natural light and offer a connection to the ocean outside, creating a comfortable space to rest and recharge after a full day ashore.
• Two portholes
• Twin beds or queen-sized bed
• Sitting area with writing desk
• Fitted wardrobe with personal safe
• Marble bathroom with shower
• In-cabin refreshments including soft drinks, juice, and
sparkling water
Ocean Staterooms offer a bright and welcoming retreat after a day of exploration. A large picture window fills the room with natural light and frames ever-changing ocean
views, while the comfortable seating area provides a relaxing space to unwind between excursions.
• Large ocean-view window
• Twin beds or queen-sized bed
• Sitting area with writing desk
• Fitted wardrobe with personal safe
• Marble bathroom with shower
• Ample storage space
• In-cabin refreshments including soft drinks, juice, and sparkling water
Vista Staterooms feature large picture windows that frame the surrounding landscapes and fill the room with natural light. A comfortable seating area and thoughtful layout create a welcoming space to unwind and reflect on the day’s adventures between exciting shore landings.
• Large ocean-view window
• Twin beds or queen-sized bed
• Sitting area with writing desk
• Fitted wardrobe with personal safe
• Marble bathroom with shower
• In-cabin refreshments including soft drinks, juice, and sparkling water
Solo Vista Staterooms offer a comfortable and thoughtfully designed retreat for guests traveling on their own. A large window fills the room with natural light and provides views of the surrounding seascape, while the practical layout creates a relaxing space to recharge between excursions.
• Large ocean-view window
• Queen-sized bed
• Sitting area with writing desk
• Fitted wardrobe with personal safe
• Marble bathroom with shower
• In-cabin refreshments including soft drinks, juice, and sparkling water
The Discovery Suite offers generous space and natural light through two Juliet balconies. A comfortable seating area invites guests to relax while taking in the ever-changing scenery. Designed for comfort and functionality, the suite provides a refined balance of space and style.
• Two Juliet balconies with glass doors
• Comfortable sitting area with convertible sofa
• Twin beds or queen-sized bed
• Marble bathroom with full tub & separate shower
• Writing desk, vanity area and fitted wardrobe with personal safe
• Fruit and sparkling wine on arrival, restocked mini bar (soft drinks, juice, sparkling water, and beer), complimentary laundry service, and in-room espresso machine
Balcony Staterooms allow guests to step outside and experience the polar regions from the privacy of their own balcony. Inside, large glass doors bring in natural light, creating a bright and welcoming atmosphere and a comfortable space to relax after a day of exploration.
• Juliet balcony with glass doors
• Twin beds or queen-sized bed
• Sitting area with writing desk
• Fitted wardrobe with personal safe
• Marble bathroom with shower
• In-cabin refreshments including soft drinks, juice, and sparkling water
The Grand Suite offers generous living space with a warm, inviting design. Floor-to-ceiling glass doors open onto a private balcony, bringing the surrounding landscape into the suite. A comfortable sitting area and refined details create a relaxed yet luxurious retreat after a day of exploration.
• Private balcony with outdoor seating
• Separate sitting area
• Twin beds or queen-sized bed
• Marble bathroom with full tub & separate shower
• Walk-in closet, writing desk & vanity area
• Fitted wardrobe with personal safe
• Fruit and sparkling wine on arrival, restocked mini bar (soft drinks, juice, sparkling water, and beer), complimentary laundry service, and in-room espresso machine
Located on Deck 7, Navigator Staterooms feature a private balcony ideal for enjoying the scenery in quiet comfort. Thoughtfully designed with warm wood accents and inviting furnishings, these staterooms offer a welcoming retreat after a day of exploration.
• Private balcony with outdoor seating
• Twin beds or queen-sized bed
• Sitting area with writing desk
• Fitted wardrobe with personal safe
• Marble bathroom with full bathtub and separate shower
• In-cabin refreshments including soft drinks, juice, and sparkling water
he Owner’s Suite offers expansive living space, sweeping polar views, and a private balcony. A separate living room and elegant furnishings create a residential feel at sea – an inviting place to unwind after a day exploring
• Private balcony with outdoor seating
• Twin beds or queen-sized bed
• Marble bathroom with full tub & separate shower
• Walk-in closet
• Writing desk & vanity area
• Fitted wardrobe with personal safe
• Fruit and sparkling wine on arrival, restocked mini bar (soft drinks, juice, sparkling water, and beer), complimentary laundry service, and in-room espresso machine
* The prices are per person in US Dollars, unless expressly specified in a different currency. In that case, payment will be in US dollars at the exchange rate of the day.
** Rates are correct at the time of publication. All prices will be re-confirmed by email at the time of booking.
NOTE: Embracing the unexpected is part of the legacy—and excitement—of expedition travel. When traveling in extremely remote regions, your expedition staff must allow the sea, the ice and the weather to guide route and itinerary details. This itinerary is a tentative outline of what you’ll experience on this voyage; please be aware that no specific itinerary can be guaranteed.
THE POLAR TRAVEL COMPANY LLC
USA
Tel: +1 (786) 321-5654
WhatsApp: +1 (786) 705-2241
Email:
travel@thepolartravelcompany.com
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