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

The most thorough exploration of the Antarctic Peninsula, this voyage is one of the few that ventures South of the Antarctic Circle, a destination that few will reach in their lifetimes. This breath-taking cruise will take you through the highlights this icy wilderness, watching the diverse wildlife that calls the frozen continent its home.

Highlights

• Be one of the few travellers to venture to 66°33' S
• Visit historic research stations in Marguerite Bay
• Witness abundant Antarctic wildlife, including penguins, seals, whales and more
• Experience western Peninsula highlights and visit iconic landing sites
• Learn about Antarctica’s geology and wildlife from on-board lecturers and specialists

Day 1 — Arrive in Ushuaia, Argentina

Day 2 — Fly to Ushuaia and Embarkation

Days 3 and 4 — Crossing the Drake Passage

Days 5 to 7 — South Shetland Islands & Antarctic Peninsula

Days 8 and 9 — Antarctic Circle

Days 10 and 11 — Northbound Along the Peninsula

Days 12 and 13 — Crossing the Drake Passage

Day 14 — Disembarkation in Ushuaia

Day 1

Ushuaia is the world’s southernmost city, overlooking the beagle channel. This is Tierra del Fuego and Patagonia at it’s finest. You will spend one night here, with time to explore the national park and see the Magellanic penguin colonies at Penguin Beach, before heading to your group hotel.

Day 2

The ship will embark in the late afternoon and you will sail through the Beagle Channel into the Drake Passage.

Days 3 and 4

As you cross the Antarctic convergence you will see increased wildlife activity. The cool upwelling waters bring with them nutrients which causes a surplus of phytoplankton sparking a veritable feeding frenzy. The waters are home to anything from, seals, penguins, multiple species of sea birds, like albatross and, and a variety of whales.

The Expedition Team will host a number of lectures and briefings which will aim to fully prepare you for the incredible experience ahead.

Days 5 to 7

You will catch your first sights of land, the South Shetland islands, your first sight of Antarctica on the horizon. As you arrive, depending on the conditions you may have the chance to visit Deception Island, so called because its shape conceals that it is in fact a flooded volcanic caldera, there may be the chance to experience the polar plunge in the protected waters.

As you explore further into the Antarctic you will be able to see more penguins, as you will be travelling quite late in the season, you will be likely to encounter the penguin chicks at their most inquisitive and playful.

Day 8 and 9

The highlight of the voyage is the crossing of the Antarctic circle, few travellers to Antarctica make it this far. As you celebrate crossing 66°33' S you will share a glass of champagne with your fellow travellers.

Days 10 and 11

 As you sail Northwards along the peninsula you will enjoy the final few lectures By now, your knowledge of Adélie, chinstrap and gentoo penguins will be matched by your ability to differentiate between a leopard, fur or Weddell seal. Terms like bergy bits and pancake ice will seem normal, yet there are still many tales to be told. As you head north, Zodiac excursions will fill your days, and your Expedition Team will continue offering presentations while giving you time to reflect on everything you’ve experienced.

Days 12 and 13

As you recross the Drake, Antarctica fades away, leaving you with a collection of memories to last a lifetime. Excited conversations with your newfound friends will make the crossing fly by, regardless of weather and sea conditions. Your Expedition Team will round up its series of lectures as well, perhaps with a slideshow of the great landing sites and wildlife you’ve witnessed over the course of your voyage.

Day 14

Today you’ll say goodbye to your Expedition Team and fellow travelers, disembarking in the morning to catch your homeward flights.