Antarctica - Highlights of the Frozen Continent 2020/2021 by Hurtigruten

Discover the highlights of the Great White Continent on this unforgettable expedition.  Be one of the few to have ever set foot on land in Antarctica and see thousands of penguins up close. Navigate through ice floes in search of seals, see enormous calving glaciers and beautiful ethereal icebergs.  This trip is sure to leave you with incredible stories to last a lifetime.

Highlights

• Explore an enchanting world of towering icebergs and ice sculptures
• See remarkable wildlife from colonies of penguins to impressive whales and seals
• Witness the massive calving glaciers
• Depart from the busy port of Ushuaia and getaway to the Great White Continent
• Cross the iconic Drake Passage
• Visit the vibrant city of Buenos Aires, also known as the “Paris of South America” 

Quick Itinerary

Day 1: Buenos Aires
Day 2: Buenos Aires – Ushuaia
Day 3-4: Drake Passage
Day 5-9: Antarctica
Day 10-11: Drake Passage
Day 12: Ushuaia – Buenos Aires

Day 1: Buenos Aires
Arrive at the vibrant metropolis of Buenos Aires, known as the ‘Paris of South America.’  You will be greeted on arrival by your representative and transferred to your pre-cruise hotel.  Full of Latino energy and colour, you will have the opportunity to explore this exciting city in the afternoon and evening, perhaps taking in a Tango show or simply enjoying the wonderful ambience of the many bars and restaurants.

Day 2: Buenos Aires – Ushuaia
You will fly early in the morning to Ushuaia, and transfer onto the MS Fridtjof Nansen where a warm reception awaits.  After settling into your cabin, enjoy the stunning views surrounding the Beagle channel as the ship sets sail, relax and unwind with a sumptuous welcome-onboard dinner.

Day 3-4: Drake Passage
Over the coming few days, the ship heads south across the infamous Drake Passage, en route to Antarctica.  You can enjoy fascinating lectures, from the expert polar team which will prepare you for your first landings, learning about the unique world of Antarctica and the wildlife that inhabits this magical continent.  Or simply relax and enjoy the wonderful scenery and onboard facilities, keeping watch for the first icebergs as you enter scenes from another world.

Day 5-9: Antarctica
Antarctica is the most remote region on the planet! You will come ashore and discover the majestic scenery of Antarctica and spot remarkable wildlife such as iconic penguins wandering on the iced landscapes. As you approach the mainland, you could observe humpback whales as well as seals lying on ice floes.
Depending on weather conditions, the expedition team will land on the South Shetland Islands and the Antarctica Peninsula where you will see a plethora Antarctic wildlife from vast colonies of penguins to impressive whales and seals. Majestic glaciers as well as stunning icebergs will be spotted along the way.
Many activities will be organised on the day. The cruise team will drop the anchor and you may choose optional kayaking or a walk on the Great White Continent. The Professional photographer will share his knowledge and experiences for you to be able to take amazing pictures of the surroundings.

Day 10-11: Drake Passage
Feeling enriched with breath-taking experiences, the Captain steers the ship northbound as you head back to civilisation.  Enjoy the free time to relax, edit photos, partake in the onboard guest lecture programme and recap your experiences with your newfound friends and crew.

Day 12: Ushuaia – Buenos Aires
As your amazing adventure comes to end, you say goodbye to the crew and fellow explorers.  You are transferred to Ushuaia airport, where you will fly to Buenos Aires in preparation for your onward travel.