From Buenos Aires, transfer to the airport for your included flight to Ushuaia. Nestled in a bowl of snowcapped mountains on the banks of the Beagle Channel, Ushuaia, Argentina greets you with a tapestry of colourful houses scattered against a rim of dramatic, jagged peaks. The southernmost city on earth is often referred to as El fin del Mundo, the 'end of the world'. It is the de facto gateway to Antarctica, where you will embark Seabourn Venture for your expedition to the Great White Continent.

Your Antarctic voyage truly begins when you cross the Drake Passage, infamous for strong currents and winds. In reality, the strait is often a tranquil 'Drake Lake', barely disturbed by the ship's wake. Your Expedition Team will point out the noticeable change to Antarctic waters and identify ever-present petrels on the waves. albatrosses gliding just above the sea, and the exciting appearance of any whales or dolphins. Cruising the Scotia Sea, the anticipation is building for you and your fellow adventurers. Enjoy last-minute lectures and briefings by the knowledgeable members of your Expedition Team during another relaxing day at sea.

You will never forget your first sighting of Antarctica and its islands. Regardless of weather conditions, you will find yourself spellbound by the vision of a completley unspoiled landscape of ice, rock and ink-blue sea. For the next five days, your Captain and Expedition Leader plan your itinerary, daily landings, scenic cruising and exploration operations to offer you the widest variety of experiences possible. The numbers and concentrations of wildlife thriving in Antarctica must be seen to be believed. Visits to breeding colonies of different penguin species; sightings of crabeater seals, Weddell and leopard seals basking on ice or swimming; and watching various species of whales feeding, breaching of passing in view punctuate your every waking hour. Petrels, skuas, gulls and other seabirds fill the skies. And inspiring panoramic views of mountain ranges, glaciers and sculpted icebergs lend a dreamlike quality to every hour.

For the next seven days, you are priviliged to experience this truly wild place in a level of luxury previously unimagined. Antarctica has been a source of inspiration for as long as humans have been aware of its existence.

Relax on another crossing of the Drake Passage. You may share tales of your personal advantures with shipmates, some of whom may become lifelong friends. Expedition Team members are once again around the ship to answer questions and point out birds and any marine life as you sail northward. Albatrosses glide over the sea, petrels and gulls circle your ship and possibly whales or dolphins briefly appear. As you approach the tip of South America, you see more birds and then sight the rocky prominences at the southern end of the great Andes cordillera.

Monte Olivia towers above Ushuaia as you approach from the Beagle Channel. You have visited the End of the World, and re-entered civilisation. Disembark Seabourn Venture today for your included flight to Buenos Aires. But leave with lasting memories that such a place as Antarctica exists.