Your Antarctic adventure begins in Ushuaia, Argentina, the world’s southernmost city and the gateway to the White Continent. After boarding the ice-strengthened m/v Ortelius, you’ll sail through the dramatic Beagle Channel before entering the open waters of the Southern Ocean. This voyage is designed for travellers seeking something truly special, an expedition that not only explores the Antarctic Peninsula but pushes further south, beyond the Antarctic Polar Circle.
The crossing of the legendary Drake Passage introduces you to the powerful Southern Ocean ecosystem. Albatrosses and storm petrels glide effortlessly above the waves, while nutrient-rich waters below support an abundance of marine life. As you sail south, whale sightings become increasingly common, with humpback, minke, and fin whales feeding in these productive waters, often surfacing close to the ship.
Once in Antarctic waters, your days are spent exploring ice-filled channels, secluded bays, and dramatic glacial landscapes by Zodiac and on foot. Landings offer encounters with penguin colonies, resting seals, and towering ice formations, while Zodiac cruises provide exceptional opportunities for whale watching in calm, ice-studded waters. Weather and ice conditions guide the daily plan, ensuring flexibility and access to the most rewarding locations.
A defining highlight of this expedition is the chance to cross the Antarctic Polar Circle, a milestone achieved by few visitors. Reaching these higher southern latitudes brings a profound sense of remoteness, where vast ice fields stretch toward the horizon and the silence of the polar environment is broken only by the sound of whales surfacing or ice shifting in the distance.
As the voyage draws to a close, you’ll retrace your route across the Drake Passage, carrying with you lasting memories of an extraordinary journey. From dramatic Antarctic scenery to unforgettable encounters with the giants of the deep, this expedition offers a rare opportunity to experience Antarctica at its wildest and most remote.
Planning your Antarctica adventure? Don’t miss the chance to explore more of South America while you’re here. Extend your journey with one of our unforgettable pre- or post-cruise itineraries through Patagonia, Iguazu Falls, or the legendary Machu Picchu. Click through to North South Journeys for expertly curated extensions that perfectly complement your polar expedition — turning a once-in-a-lifetime trip into a truly epic journey.
