Welcome to Ushuaia, Argentina, the world’s southernmost city. You’ll be briefed at the hotel tonight on the journey and details for tomorrow’s embarkation, but if you happen to arrive early there are a surprising amount of ways to entertain yourself at ‘the End of the World’. Check out the Museo Maritimo to brush up on the region’s history, or take a stroll down Avenida San Martin if you’re after any last-minute essentials before departing. Oh, and did we mention this is Argentina – if all else fails, head to a local restaurant to get your fill of red wine and steak.

Your morning is free before you transfer to and board the vessel in the afternoon. Settle into your cabin and meet the ship staff and expedition crew. Enjoy a welcome dinner and get to know your fellow travellers. Who knows, gravy might even be on the menu. Set off on your expedition in the late afternoon or early evening. Cruise down the historic Beagle Channel, maybe getting your first view of some of the region’s spectacular wildlife on the rocky shores.

Spend the next few days traversing the infamous Drake Passage, named after Sir Frances Drake, on your way to the Antarctic Peninsula. While crossing the passage you can get acquainted with the many first-class amenities available on the Ocean Endeavour – maybe do a yoga class or brush up on your photography skills in preparation for your arrival. The researchers and scientists travelling with you will begin their onboard lecture program over the next few days and (if conditions are favourable) you’ll also be able to join them on deck to spot seabirds and maybe whales. Expect to reach the peninsula on the evening of Day 4.

Spend three unforgettable days exploring the Great White Continent with your expert crew. While landing sites will be chosen based on wildlife-spotting opportunities and weather conditions, you can expect to explore on land and by Zodiac boat during daily excursions. The Antarctic Peninsula is home to leopard seals, Adelie penguins and chinstrap penguins, among many others. Nights will be spent on board, listening to lectures from the expedition crew. 

If you’ve been dreaming of a white Christmas, this is as white as it gets. Enjoy the festive spirit on board the ship, with your presents coming in the form of yet more landings and wildlife sightings throughout the day. These wildlife encounters are likely to include Weddell, crabeater and leopard seals; Gentoo, Adelie and chinstrap penguins, and elephant seals.

Hit the sea once again, bound for South Georgia, arriving by the evening of Day 11 if conditions are favourable. Maybe take the opportunity to relax and unwind with some onboard health and wellness services. Or perhaps you’d prefer to taste the crisp Antarctic air from on deck as seabirds and perhaps whales rear their heads.

This morning you’ll disembark the ship after breakfast and your journey comes to an end. Transfer to the airport is included for flights departing today, but if you’re sticking around a little longer then there is so much to see in this incredible region. Adios!