Crossing the Antarctic Circle from Buenos Aires: Southern Expedition 14 days by Quark

The most in-depth exploration of the Antarctic Peninsula, this voyage ventures South of the Antarctic Circle, a milestone that few will reach. This remarkable voyage will take you through the heart of this majestic wilderness, seeing the incredible wildlife that calls the frozen continent its home.

Highlights

Day 1 — Arrive in Buenos Aires, Argentina

Arrive in Buenos Aires, the capital of Argentina and the birthplace of tango. The city has a cosmopolitan character with strong Spanish, Italian and German influences. Make sure to enjoy the steak and wine for which the Argentines are renowned. You will get a transfer to your hotel.

Day 2 — Fly to Ushuaia and Embarkation

You will take a chartered flight from Buenos Aires to Ushuaia, where you will have some time to explore the city. The ship will embark on its voyage in the late afternoon taking in the majestic glaciers of the Beagle channel.

Days 3 and 4 — Crossing the Drake Passage
As you cross the Drake Passage there will be a series of talks and briefings which will help get you excited for the Antarctic and its full appreciate its brilliance when you arrive. You will have plenty of time to socialise with your shipmates and enjoy the ship amenities.

Days 5 to 7 — the South Shetland Islands & Antarctic Peninsula

You will catch the first sights of the South Shetland Islands. Their snow-covered expanses will be the first that you set eyes upon Antarctica. 
Each day you will have the chance to explore the bays and landing sites of the Antarctic peninsula. The wildlife is the biggest attraction here as you will be able to see leopard seals, humpback whales, minke whales, penguins and even wandering albatross.

Days 8 and 9 — Antarctic Circle

You will cross the Antarctic Circle, which is a special experience as most expeditions to the Antarctic Peninsula do not come this far south—66°33’ S. You will be able to celebrate with your shipmates and enjoy a well-earned glass of champagne as you cross the line. This is pure Antarctica, the land of the midnight sun.

Days 10 and 11 — Northbound Along the Peninsula

You will sail Northbound along the Peninsula and continue to look out for wildlife that may have eluded you on your journey South. By now, you will have become an expert on Adélie, chinstrap and gentoo penguins and at a glance distinguish a leopard, fur and Weddell seal. Terms like bergy bits and pancake ice will have become a part of your vocabulary, and yet there is still more to come on your expedition

Days 12 and 13 — Crossing the Drake Passage

As you recross the drake, The Expedition Team will round up its presentations, perhaps with a slideshow of all the landing sites you have visited during your voyage. Antarctica may fade into the distance behind you, but in truth you will bring a bit of it back with you, along with a greater appreciation of the wonders this planet has to offer.

Day 14 — Disembarkation in Ushuaia & Fly to Buenos Aires

You will arrive in Ushuaia in the morning, after breakfast. After disembarking, you will get a little taste of Patagonia by touring Tierra del Fuego National Park before transferring to the airport for the return group charter flight to Buenos Aires.