Antarctic Peninsula and Polar Circle by Albatros Expeditions

On this inspiring 13-day expedition cruise, explore the Great White Continent's magnificent landscapes, glacial mountains and incredible wildlife before reaching the Antarctic Circle.

Begin your voyage with Albatros Expeditions through the calm waters of the Beagle Channel. Enter the Drake Passage, which marks the intersection of the Antarctic with the warmer Atlantic and Pacific Oceans. Here the excitement builds, as Antarctica comes into view. These nutrient-rich waters lure a wealth of seabirds, albatrosses and several species of whales. Look out for seals and penguins too. Continue on to the South Shetland Islands, a pearly necklace of glistening, ice-covered islands and dormant volcanoes. Enjoy plenty of Zodiac excursions and landfalls in this area.

Continue onward to enjoy the calming silence and alluring beauty of the Antarctic mainland during hikes and Zodiac excursions. Soon after you'll cross the Antarctic Circle where the sun is up for 24-hours a day during the austral summer. Dense pack ice forbids many ordinary vessels from reaching this far south, but with the highest ice-class rating, Ocean Atlantic moves swiftly carrying you on an adventure for life.

Highlights

• Cross the Antarctic Circle, an experience very few get in their lifetime

• Traverse the Drake Passage, a crossing the most spirited sailors consider a lifetime achievement

• Marvel at wildlife such as whales, sea lions, elephant seals, sea birds and penguins

Quick Itinerary

Day 1: Ushuaia, Argentina
Days 2 & 3: At Sea - Cross the Drake Passage
Days 4 & 5: South Shetland Islands
Days 6 - 10: Antarctic Peninsula
Days 11 & 12: Depart Antarctica/ At Sea
Day 13: Disembarkation in Ushuaia

Departures and Prices

Day 1: Ushuaia, Argentina

Arrive in Ushuaia, the world's southernmost town. Explore the quaint city or local countryside. Alternatively, consider a day trip off the beaten track to the raw, natural archipelago of Tierra del Fuego. This is a hiker's paradise, with rugged, snow-capped mountains, glaciers, flower-filled meadows and boggy quagmires. In the afternoon, you'll board your ship, Ocean Atlantic and your journey begins as you navigate through the Beagle Channel.

Days 2 & 3: At Sea - Cross the Drake Passage

Sailing onward, you will cross the Drake Passage - a body of water that marks the intersection of the cold Antarctic with the warmer Atlantic and Pacific Oceans. The Drake Passage is known for rollicking conditions and strong westerly winds, called the Roaring Fifties. While this passage may be challenging, you can rest assured aboard Ocean Atlantic, which is purpose-built with stabilizers, powerful engines and a highly-qualified crew. In the Drake, excitement builds as Antarctica comes into view, perhaps you will catch your first sight of seals and penguins!

Days 4 & 5:South Shetland Islands

Over the next two days, you will explore the sub-Antarctic Islands of the South Shetland chain. Projected landfalls include Elephant Island, home to elephant seals, sheer cliffs rising from the sea and snow-covered peaks; King George Island; Deception Island, an extinct volcano with waters warm enough for a polar swim; and Half Moon Island with nesting Wilson's storm petrels and chinstrap penguins.

Days 6 - 10: Antarctic Peninsula

As the white shimmer of Antarctica looms on the horizon, the presence of wildlife multiples by tens of thousands with many species of lively penguins, inquisitive seals, nesting birds and the spray of marine mammals. Wildlife abounds on the Antarctic Peninsula: leopard, fur and Weddell Seals of Cuverville Island; humpback whales of Gerlache Strait; Paradise Bay; the dramatic Lemaire Channel's orcas, explore as far south as possible to Pleneau and Petermann Islands, Crystal Sound and Fish Island. Visit research stations and the Antarctic Circle.

Days 11 & 12: Depart Antarctica/ At Sea

Today you'll depart Antarctica and spend two days at sea on your way back to the calms of the Beagle Channel and Ushuaia. En-route, cross the Drake Passage and cruise past Cape Horn, a legendary maritime landmark and the southern tip of South America. Enjoy a variety of activities onboard during your time at sea.

Day 13: Disembarkation in Ushuaia

Arrive back in Ushuaia this morning for disembarkation and return to the airport for your journey home.

Secure your space today by calling one of our Travel Specialists on 0203 196 1000