Day 1: Departure from Ushuaia

Boarding will be in the afternoon. Passengers will meet the lecturers and their expedition staff. Afterwards they will be able to settle into their respective cabins and then begin the navigation through the famous Beagle Channel, through the Mackinlay Pass.

Days 2 and 3: At Sea. Crossing the Drake Passage

This passage marks the Antarctic Convergence, a biological barrier where cold polar water sinks beneath the warmer northern waters., sustaining the biodiversity of the region. Staff will be on deck with passengers for seabird identification. Upon arrival in the South Shetland Islands, if conditions in the Drake Passage allow, expedition staff will accompany passengers on the first disembarkation to have an encounter with the penguins and seals

Days 4 to 6: Exploring the Weddell Sea

The navigation between huge tabular icebergs will be exciting. It will be worth to be on deck in the early morning to see a unique sunrise. If conditions allow, we will visit Esperanza Bay and the Argentinean base Esperanza. The Weddell Sea represents the center of the peninsular population of Adélie penguins.

Days 7 and 8: Exploring the Antarctic Peninsula and the South Shetland Islands

The history of the Antarctic Peninsula will thrill everyone in a way comparable to that of the early explorers. Colourful icebergs and diverse shapes float on the waters surrounding the continent. We can explore the pristine wilderness of snow, ice, mountains and waterways, as well as admire the diversity of the local wildlife: chinstrap penguins, gentoos, crabeater seals, sea lions, as well as whales and orcas. Depending on ice conditions we will sail through some beautiful channels, such as the Gerlache Strait, the Neumayer Channel and the Lemaire Channel.
It is planned to sail towards the Polar Circle, visit the Ukrainian Vernadsky Station, among other trips. Also explore the South Shetland Islands, sail to the flooded caldera of Deception Island and visit Half Moon Island.

Days 9 and 10: At Sea. Crossing the Drake Passage, northbound

We will sail north across the Drake Passage. Together with the lecturers and naturalists on deck we will be able to admire the seabirds and whales. Everyone will be able to relax and reflect on the experience.

Day 11: Arrival in Ushuaia

We will arrive early in the morning in Ushuaia, disembarking after breakfast.

OBSERVATIONS:

The itinerary may vary according to local weather, ice conditions and wildlife viewing opportunities. We will always seek to facilitate the best results of the prevailing conditions. A daily schedule will be posted on board.