South Georgia & Antarctic Odyssey Cruise

This morning, enjoy breakfast and check out. Please ensure your cabin luggage is fitted with cabin tags clearly labelled with your name and cabin number. Take your cabin luggage to hotel reception, prior to, or at check-out. Your luggage will be stored and transferred directly to the port for clearance, to be placed in your cabin ahead of your arrival on board. Please keep any valuables or personal items with you throughout the day.

Your morning is at leisure to explore Ushuaia. Those wishing to join the afternoon catamaran cruise, meet back at the hotel lobby at 12:45pm ready to transfer to the port at 1:00pm. Here, board your catamaran and sail the Beagle Channel, towards the city’s iconic Les Eclaireurs Lighthouse. Crossing the Bridges Archipelago, slow down to watch colonies of sea lions and imperial cormorants sun themselves on the rocky outcrops, while gulls, rock cormorants, skuas, petrels, albatrosses and cauquenes are often sighted. This cruise offers panoramic views of the city and the surrounding mountain range, in addition to hearing tales of the people and communities of the region.

Alternatively, enjoy your day at leisure and meet at your hotel lobby at 3:45 pm to be transferred to the pier for embarkation. Once on board, you’ll have time to settle into your cabin before important mandatory 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. This evening, get to know your fellow expeditioners and friendly expedition team and crew at a welcome dinner to celebrate the start of a thrilling adventure to Antarctica.

As the ship commences the Drake Passage crossing, make the most of this time getting comfortable with the motions of the sea. The expedition team prepare all for the first landing with important wildlife guidelines and biosecurity procedures, and start the lecture program to help educate about Antarctica’s history, wildlife and environment. The wildlife experiences begin with 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 and wellness center, or relaxing in one of the observation lounges.

Nearing the South Shetland Islands and the tip of the Antarctic Peninsula on the afternoon of day four, 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 you are below the Antarctic Convergence and are surrounded by the surreal presence of floating ice sculptures. The memory of your first big iceberg sighting is likely to remain with you for a lifetime. Time and weather permitting, possibly attempt the first landing in Antarctica by late afternoon.

It’s almost impossible to describe the feeling of arriving in Antarctica. Take a deep breath of some of the most fresh, crisp air on earth. The western side of the Antarctic Peninsula and the South Shetland Islands are ready to be explored, and there are many options. Being so far south, experience approximately 18-24 hours of daylight, enabling the days to be as busy as desired. The experienced expedition team, who have made countless journeys to this area, will use their expertise to design the voyage from day to day, choosing the best options based on the prevailing weather, ice conditions and wildlife opportunities.

Hope to make landings or Zodiac excursions twice a day, as planned. Dress warmly before joining Zodiac cruises along spectacular ice cliffs or among grounded icebergs, keeping watch for whales, seals and porpoising penguins. Zodiacs will also provide transport between the ship and landing sites that are host to penguin rookeries and historic huts. While ashore, aim to stretch the legs, wandering along pebbly beaches or perhaps up snow-covered ridgelines to vantage points with mountains towering overhead and ice-speckled oceans below.

Possibly enjoy ship cruises through some of the narrow, dramatic straits separating offshore islands from the mainland, or linger in scenic bays to watch whales travelling or feeding. This is a great time to enjoy the observation lounge or bridge for uninterrupted views of Antarctica in all its splendor. Keep an ear out for the creak and deep rumble of glaciers as they carve their way from summit to sea, and take a quiet moment to experience the wonder of this incredible white continent.

Enjoy informative and entertaining lectures from the expedition team and learn about the wildlife, history and culture of the places that you will visit on the voyage. Consider treating yourself to a massage in the wellness center, stay active in the gym or borrow a book from the ship’s well-stocked library and relax in one of the many observation areas on board the vessel.

As the ship nears the rugged island of South Georgia, spare a thought for Captain James Cook, who arrived here in 1775 and believed it to be the northern tip of a great southern continent! In fact, it is a small island only 110 miles long, but with a 9,842-foot snow-capped mountain range, some of the world’s largest congregations of wildlife and a truly fascinating human history, South Georgia is an island of incredible riches. On approach, jagged mountain peaks rise steeply, while seabirds are often spotted soaring around the ship. Sail down the east coast, taking in the spectacular glaciated scenery and enjoying a little shelter from the prevailing westerly winds along this enchanting coastline.

The experienced expedition team will plan the voyage from day to day, choosing the best options based on the prevailing weather, sea state and wildlife opportunities. Anticipate making landings or Zodiac excursions twice a day. Zodiac cruises scour craggy coves the rocky coastline in search of nesting penguins, seal haul-outs and bird cliffs. Watch for South Georgia’s kelp forests as well–these remarkable underwater ecosystems are quite mesmerizing as their fronds sway back and forth on the water’s surface.

Zodiacs will also transport you from ship to shore, where you can visit some of the largest king penguin colonies on earth, take a guided walk among fur seals and elephant seals (making sure you listen to your guides and keep your distance!) and wander along pebbled streams and grassy glacial outwash plains. We also hope to visit the remnants of South Georgia’s thriving whaling stations and pay our respects to Sir Ernest Shackleton, whose incredible voyage of survival is synonymous with this island.

Between South Georgia and the Falklands, be entranced by the ceaseless flight of the many seabirds that follow the ship’s wake, skillfully using the air currents created by the ship to gain momentum. Sea days are great for editing photos and enjoying more lectures from our team of experts who will share their wealth of knowledge about the region through which you are travelling.

Sea and weather conditions will determine your arrival time into the Falklands Islands today.

The Falkland Islands comprises two large islands (East and West Falkland), with over 700 islands scattered off the coast. All but seven of these are uninhabited, with windswept coastlines, white sand beaches and crystal clear water. These beautifully barren islands are true wildlife havens, sheltering an impressive diversity of birdlife, including the largest black-browed albatross colony on earth. The cold, nutrient-rich waters surrounding the islands make this a prime location for spotting marine life.

There are many beautiful areas to explore across the Falklands, each offering a unique perspective on this magnificent archipelago. The experienced expedition team, who have made countless journeys to this area, will use their expertise to design the voyage from day to day, choosing the best options based on the prevailing winds, weather and wildlife opportunities.

Anticipate making landings or Zodiac excursions twice a day, weather permitting. Despite being north of the Antarctic Convergence, it can be quite chilly here, so layer up before joining Zodiac cruises into rocky coves or along sea cliffs, keeping watch for seals, sea lions, dolphins and porpoising penguins. Zodiacs will also transport guests from the ship to land to visit possible albatross colonies, penguin rookeries and perhaps even enjoy a traditional English tea and scones gathering at a local cottage.

Also aim to land in historic Stanley, the capital of the Falklands. This charming town has a distinctly British character, with terraced townhouses, pioneer cottages and even an iconic red telephone box! Colorful buildings house cozy cafes, English pubs, souvenir shops, a post office and the fascinating Historic Dockyard Museum, with displays on the maritime history of the Falkland Islands, natural history and links to Antarctica.

With lectures and film presentations to complete the Antarctic experience, there is still plenty of time to enjoy the magic of the South Atlantic Ocean and the life that calls it home. There is time for reflection and discussion about what you have seen and experienced. As the ship approaches the tip of South America, the captain may sail close to legendary Cape Horn, weather and time permitting.

During the early morning, cruise up the Beagle Channel, before quietly slipping into dock in Ushuaia, where you will be free to disembark around 8:00am. Say farewell your expedition team and fellow passengers as you continue your onward journeys, hopefully with a newfound sense of the immense power of nature. On disembarkation, passengers on flights departing prior to 2:00pm will be transferred directly to Ushuaia Airport, while those fortunate enough to be continuing their travels in this spectacular region of the world, will be transferred to their post-voyage Ushuaia accommodation. Passengers flying after 2:00pm will have time to explore Ushuaia, prior to an afternoon airport transfer, the details of which will be provided on board prior to disembarkation.

This morning, enjoy breakfast and check out. Please ensure your cabin luggage is fitted with cabin tags clearly labelled with your name and cabin number. Take your cabin luggage to hotel reception, prior to, or at check-out. Your luggage will be stored and transferred directly to the port for clearance, to be placed in your cabin ahead of your arrival on board. Please keep any valuables or personal items with you throughout the day.

Your morning is at leisure to explore Ushuaia. Those wishing to join the afternoon catamaran cruise, meet back at the hotel lobby at 12:45pm ready to transfer to the port at 1:00pm. Here, board your catamaran and sail the Beagle Channel, towards the city’s iconic Les Eclaireurs Lighthouse. Crossing the Bridges Archipelago, slow down to watch colonies of sea lions and imperial cormorants sun themselves on the rocky outcrops, while gulls, rock cormorants, skuas, petrels, albatrosses and cauquenes are often sighted. This cruise offers panoramic views of the city and the surrounding mountain range, in addition to hearing tales of the people and communities of the region.

Alternatively, enjoy your day at leisure and meet at your hotel lobby at 3:45 pm to be transferred to the pier for embarkation. Once on board, you’ll have time to settle into your cabin before important mandatory 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. This evening, get to know your fellow expeditioners and friendly expedition team and crew at a welcome dinner to celebrate the start of a thrilling adventure to Antarctica.

As the ship commences the Drake Passage crossing, make the most of this time getting comfortable with the motions of the sea. The expedition team prepare all for the first landing with important wildlife guidelines and biosecurity procedures, and start the lecture program to help educate about Antarctica’s history, wildlife and environment. The wildlife experiences begin with watching and photographing the many seabirds, including majestic albatrosses and giant petrels following in the ship’s wake. They rise and fall skillfully, using air currents created by the ship to gain momentum.

Nearing the South Shetland Islands and the tip of the Antarctic Peninsula, 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 the ship is below the Antarctic Convergence and is surrounded by the surreal presence of floating ice sculptures. The memory of the first big iceberg sighting is unforgettable. Weather permitting, the first landing in Antarctica may be attempted by late afternoon.

It’s almost impossible to describe the feeling of arriving in Antarctica. Take a deep breath of some of the most fresh, crisp air on earth. The western side of the Antarctic Peninsula and the South Shetland Islands are ready to be explored, and there are many options. Being so far south, experience approximately 18-24 hours of daylight, enabling the days to be as busy as desired. The experienced expedition team, who have made countless journeys to this area, will use their expertise to design the voyage from day to day, choosing the best options based on the prevailing weather, ice conditions and wildlife opportunities.

Hope to make landings or Zodiac excursions twice a day, as planned. Dress warmly before joining Zodiac cruises along spectacular ice cliffs or among grounded icebergs, keeping watch for whales, seals and porpoising penguins. Zodiacs will also provide transport between the ship and landing sites that are host to penguin rookeries and historic huts. While ashore, aim to stretch the legs, wandering along pebbly beaches or perhaps up snow-covered ridgelines to vantage points with mountains towering overhead and ice-speckled oceans below.

Possibly enjoy ship cruises through some of the narrow, dramatic straits separating offshore islands from the mainland, or linger in scenic bays to watch whales travelling or feeding. This is a great time to enjoy the observation lounge or bridge for uninterrupted views of Antarctica in all its splendor. Keep an ear out for the creak and deep rumble of glaciers as they carve their way from summit to sea, and take a quiet moment to experience the wonder of this incredible white continent.

On this voyage, plan to cross the Antarctic Circle, an imaginary line located at the Antarctic Circle at latitude 66°33′ South. This is certainly a special highlight for everyone, and the moment will be celebrated with a toast on the deck. Join a small group of lucky adventurers who’ve made it to this part of the world. As the ship approaches and crosses the circle, one can notice subtle changes in the landscape, icescape and in the distribution of wildlife. The waters at this time of year are rich with krill so there may be plenty of whales—particularly humpbacks and minkes. Enjoy the spectacle of penguins feeding their ravenous chicks.

En route for South Georgia, head across the Scotia Sea, following the route that Shackleton and five of his men took in order to find help for the rest of their crew. On 24 April, 1916, they piled into the James Caird, the most seaworthy of their open boats, to attempt this perilous journey to South Georgia, some 1290 km (802 miles) distant. Shackleton hoped to reach South Georgia in two weeks. There he would enlist the help of the whalers to return to Elephant Island and rescue the men who had been left behind. As excitement builds for South Georgia, catch up with fellow expeditioners in the bar, keep watch for wildlife alongside the naturalist from the open bridge, or learn more of the Shackleton story from the ship’s historian.

As the ship nears the rugged island of South Georgia, spare a thought for Captain James Cook, who arrived here in 1775 and believed it to be the northern tip of a great southern continent! In fact, it is a small island only 110 miles long, but with a 9,842-foot snow-capped mountain range, some of the world’s largest congregations of wildlife and a truly fascinating human history, South Georgia is an island of incredible riches. On approach, jagged mountain peaks rise steeply, while seabirds are often spotted soaring around the ship. Sail down the east coast, taking in the spectacular glaciated scenery and enjoying a little shelter from the prevailing westerly winds along this enchanting coastline.

The experienced expedition team will plan the voyage from day to day, choosing the best options based on the prevailing weather, sea state and wildlife opportunities. Anticipate making landings or Zodiac excursions twice a day. Zodiac cruises scour craggy coves the rocky coastline in search of nesting penguins, seal haul-outs and bird cliffs. Watch for South Georgia’s kelp forests as well–these remarkable underwater ecosystems are quite mesmerizing as their fronds sway back and forth on the water’s surface.

Zodiacs will also transport you from ship to shore, where you can visit some of the largest king penguin colonies on earth, take a guided walk among fur seals and elephant seals (making sure you listen to your guides and keep your distance!) and wander along pebbled streams and grassy glacial outwash plains. We also hope to visit the remnants of South Georgia’s thriving whaling stations and pay our respects to Sir Ernest Shackleton, whose incredible voyage of survival is synonymous with this island. If you have chosen an optional activity, you’ll have the option to do that whenever conditions allow.

Additionally, the ship may cruise through fjords with towering cliffs of ancient stone, or into deeply indented bays towards dramatic glacier fronts. This is a great time to find a comfy spot in the observation lounge or the bridge to enjoy uninterrupted views of South Georgia’s majestic coast.

Between South Georgia and the Falkland Islands, be entranced by the ceaseless flight of the many seabirds that follow the ship’s wake, skillfully using the air currents created by the ship to gain momentum. On this leg, the ship usually travels into the prevailing weather so it is difficult to estimate the arrival time into the Falklands. The lecture program will continue and highlight all of the amazing sights witnessed over the past few days. Enjoy ample time to observe sea birds, whale watch from the bridge or simply relax in the bar with a book. If time and weather conditions permit, pass close to Shag Rocks, a fascinating group of jagged rocky islets protruding from the sea in the proximity of South Georgia.

The Falkland Islands comprises two large islands (East and West Falkland), with over 700 islands scattered off the coast. All but seven of these are uninhabited, with windswept coastlines, white sand beaches and crystal clear water. These beautifully barren islands are true wildlife havens, sheltering an impressive diversity of birdlife, including the largest black-browed albatross colony on earth. The cold, nutrient-rich waters surrounding the islands make this a prime location for spotting marine life.

There are many beautiful areas to explore across the Falklands, each offering a unique perspective on this magnificent archipelago. The experienced expedition team, who have made countless journeys to this area, will use their expertise to design the voyage from day to day, choosing the best options based on the prevailing winds, weather and wildlife opportunities.

Anticipate making landings or Zodiac excursions twice a day, weather permitting. Despite being north of the Antarctic Convergence, it can be quite chilly here, so layer up before joining Zodiac cruises into rocky coves or along sea cliffs, keeping watch for seals, sea lions, dolphins and porpoising penguins. Zodiacs will also transport guests from the ship to land to visit possible albatross colonies, penguin rookeries and perhaps even enjoy a traditional English tea and scones gathering at a local cottage.

Also aim to land in historic Stanley, the capital of the Falklands. This charming town has a distinctly British character, with terraced townhouses, pioneer cottages and even an iconic red telephone box! Colorful buildings house cozy cafes, English pubs, souvenir shops, a post office and the fascinating Historic Dockyard Museum, with displays on the maritime history of the Falkland Islands, natural history and links to Antarctica.

Consider spending the sea day returning to Ushuaia by editing photos, enjoying the onboard facilities or listening to an informative lecture. Celebrate the end of an unforgettable voyage with newfound friends at a special captain’s farewell dinner.

During the early morning, cruise up the Beagle Channel before quietly slipping into dock in Ushuaia, where disembarkation occurs around 8:00am. Say farewell to the expedition team and fellow passengers as everyone continues onward journeys, hopefully with a newfound sense of the immense power of nature. A transfer to downtown Ushuaia before continuing to the airport is included in the cost of the voyage.

This morning, enjoy breakfast and check out. Please ensure your cabin luggage is fitted with cabin tags clearly labelled with your name and cabin number. Take your cabin luggage to hotel reception, prior to, or at check-out. Your luggage will be stored and transferred directly to the port for clearance, to be placed in your cabin ahead of your arrival on board. Please keep any valuables or personal items with you throughout the day.

Your morning is at leisure to explore Ushuaia. Those wishing to join the afternoon catamaran cruise, meet back at the hotel lobby at 12:45pm ready to transfer to the port at 1:00pm. Here, board your catamaran and sail the Beagle Channel, towards the city’s iconic Les Eclaireurs Lighthouse. Crossing the Bridges Archipelago, slow down to watch colonies of sea lions and imperial cormorants sun themselves on the rocky outcrops, while gulls, rock cormorants, skuas, petrels, albatrosses and cauquenes are often sighted. This cruise offers panoramic views of the city and the surrounding mountain range, in addition to hearing tales of the people and communities of the region.

Alternatively, enjoy your day at leisure and meet at your hotel lobby at 3:45 pm to be transferred to the pier for embarkation. Once on board, you’ll have time to settle into your cabin before important mandatory 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. This evening, get to know your fellow expeditioners and friendly expedition team and crew at a welcome dinner to celebrate the start of a thrilling adventure to Antarctica.

As the ship commences her trip across the South Atlantic Ocean towards the Falklands~Malvinas, make the most of this time getting comfortable with the motions of the sea. The expedition team prepares everyone for the first landing with important wildlife guidelines, biosecurity procedures, and starting the lecture program to help all learn more about the region’s history, wildlife and environment. The wildlife experiences begin by watching and photographing the many seabirds, including majestic albatrosses and giant petrels following the ship. They rise and fall, skilfully using air currents created by the ship to gain momentum.

The Falklands comprises two large islands (East and West Falkland), with over 700 islands scattered off the coast. All but seven of these are uninhabited, with windswept coastlines, white-sand beaches and crystal clear water. These beautifully barren islands are true wildlife havens, sheltering an impressive diversity of birdlife, including the largest black-browed albatross colony on earth. The cold, nutrient-rich waters surrounding the islands make this a prime location for spotting marine life.

There are many beautiful areas to explore across the Falklands, each offering a unique perspective on this magnificent archipelago. The experienced expedition team, who have made countless journeys to this area, will use their expertise to design the voyage from day to day, choosing the best options based on the prevailing winds, weather and wildlife opportunities.

Anticipate making landings or Zodiac excursions twice a day, weather permitting. Despite being north of the Antarctic Convergence, it can be quite chilly here, so layer up before joining Zodiac cruises into rocky coves or along sea cliffs, keeping watch for seals, sea lions, dolphins and porpoising penguins. Zodiacs will also transport guests from the ship to land to visit possible albatross colonies and penguin rookeries.

Conditions permitting, hope to land in historic Stanley, the capital of the Falklands. This charming town has a distinctly British character, with terraced town houses, pioneer cottages and even an iconic red telephone box! Colorful buildings house cozy cafes, English pubs, souvenir shops, a post office and the fascinating Historic Dockyard Museum, with displays on the maritime history of the Falkland Islands, natural history and links to Antarctica.

Between the Falklands and South Georgia, be entranced by the ceaseless flight of the many seabirds that follow the ship’s wake, skillfully using the air currents created by the ship to gain momentum. On this leg, the ship is usually traveling into the prevailing weather so it is difficult to estimate the precise arrival time in South Georgia. The lecture program will continue highlighting all of the incredible sights witnessed over the past few days. Appreciate ample time to observe the sea birds, whale-watch from the observation areas or simply relax with a book. If time and weather conditions permit, hope to pass close to Shag Rocks, a fascinating group of jagged rocky islets protruding from the sea in the proximity of South Georgia.

As the ship nears the rugged island of South Georgia, spare a thought for Captain James Cook, who arrived here in 1775 and believed it to be the northern tip of a great southern continent! In fact, it is a small island only 110 miles long, but with a 9,842-foot snow-capped mountain range, some of the world’s largest congregations of wildlife and a truly fascinating human history, South Georgia is an island of incredible riches. On approach, jagged mountain peaks rise steeply, while seabirds are often spotted soaring around the ship. Sail down the east coast, taking in the spectacular glaciated scenery and enjoying a little shelter from the prevailing westerly winds along this enchanting coastline.

The experienced expedition team will plan the voyage from day to day, choosing the best options based on the prevailing weather, sea state and wildlife opportunities. Anticipate making landings or Zodiac excursions twice a day. Zodiac cruises scour craggy coves the rocky coastline in search of nesting penguins, seal haul-outs and bird cliffs. Watch for South Georgia’s kelp forests as well–these remarkable underwater ecosystems are quite mesmerizing as their fronds sway back and forth on the water’s surface.

Zodiacs will also transport you from ship to shore, where you can visit some of the largest king penguin colonies on earth, take a guided walk among fur seals and elephant seals (making sure you listen to your guides and keep your distance!) and wander along pebbled streams and grassy glacial outwash plains. We also hope to visit the remnants of South Georgia’s thriving whaling stations and pay our respects to Sir Ernest Shackleton, whose incredible voyage of survival is synonymous with this island. If you have chosen an optional activity, you’ll have the option to do that whenever conditions allow.

Additionally, the ship may cruise through fjords with towering cliffs of ancient stone, or into deeply indented bays towards dramatic glacier fronts. This is a great time to find a comfy spot in the observation lounge or the bridge to enjoy uninterrupted views of South Georgia’s majestic coast.

Attend informative lectures to learn about Antarctica as the ship sails across the Scotia Sea towards the White Continent. Treat yourself to a massage in the wellness center or stay active in the gym; the choice is yours on how you want to enjoy these days at sea.

On Captain James Cook’s second voyage of discovery (1772–1775), he circumnavigated the globe in high southern latitudes, without seeing land, casting doubt on the existence of the Antarctic continent, which at that time was still unknown. It was during this voyage Cook discovered the South Sandwich Islands and landed on South Georgia Island, describing them as, “Lands doomed by Nature to perpetual frigidness: never to feel the warmth of the sun’s rays; whose horrible and savage aspects I have not words to describe.” He named the South Sandwich Islands for Lord Sandwich, they are considered together with South Georgia, as a UK-Dependent Territory and are uninhabited. Although Cook sighted a number of the islands, several more were not discovered until Bellingshausen visited in 1819.

Located about 460 miles southeast of South Georgia, the islands form a chain some 220 miles, comprising 11 large and several smaller islands with a total area of about 230 square miles. Most are ice-capped, and the tallest peak, on Montagu Island, reaches 4,500 ft. The climate is cold, with frequent snow and strong winds. The islands are volcanic in origin and some remain active. The island of Zavodovski, for instance, appears in constant eruption and reeks of rotten eggs (the volcano itself is named Mt. Asphyxia), while the islands of Visokoi, Candlemas, Saunders and Bellingshausen all show definite signs of activity. Bristol, Cook and Thule islands are heavily glaciated and show no signs of warmth or activity. All the islands are steep-sided above the water and fall away rapidly into deep water—more than 5,000 feet.

In this wild environment, nature determines what can be seen and done. If conditions allow, hope to explore the dramatic coastline of some the islands. Little is known about these islands, although the British Antarctic Survey has undertaken some limited biological and geological work there, mainly in the 1960s. Vegetation is very sparse. But there’s at least one extraordinary wildlife spectacle: Zavodovski Island supports a chinstrap penguin colony that numbers around one million penguins on its steep volcanic slopes. Those who have seen this massive penguin colony speak of it with awe.

Reflect over a few drinks on the adventures of the last few days spent in the wild South Sandwich Islands and hear tales of exploration and discovery from the team of onboard experts while preparing for the exciting days ahead in the Antarctic Peninsula.

It’s almost impossible to describe the feeling of arriving in Antarctica. Take a deep breath of some of the most fresh, crisp air on earth. The western side of the Antarctic Peninsula and the South Shetland Islands are ready to be explored, and there are many options. Being so far south, experience approximately 18-24 hours of daylight, enabling the days to be as busy as desired. The experienced expedition team, who have made countless journeys to this area, will use their expertise to design the voyage from day to day, choosing the best options based on the prevailing weather, ice conditions and wildlife opportunities.

Hope to make landings or Zodiac excursions twice a day, as planned. Dress warmly before joining Zodiac cruises along spectacular ice cliffs or among grounded icebergs, keeping watch for whales, seals and porpoising penguins. Zodiacs will also provide transport between the ship and landing sites that are host to penguin rookeries and historic huts. While ashore, aim to stretch the legs, wandering along pebbly beaches or perhaps up snow-covered ridgelines to vantage points with mountains towering overhead and ice-speckled oceans below.

Possibly enjoy ship cruises through some of the narrow, dramatic straits separating offshore islands from the mainland, or linger in scenic bays to watch whales travelling or feeding. This is a great time to enjoy the observation lounge or bridge for uninterrupted views of Antarctica in all its splendor. Keep an ear out for the creak and deep rumble of glaciers as they carve their way from summit to sea, and take a quiet moment to experience the wonder of this incredible white continent.