CROSSING THE ANTARCTIC CIRCLE

SHIPS OFFERING THIS ITINERARY

Ultramarine

The Ultramarine is designed to go beyond the familiar in polar exploration, to discover new places, and immerse you in the best the region has to offer. Ultramarine accommodates 199 guests and is equipped with two twin-engine helicopters to offer the most robust portfolio of adventure activities in the industry, the most spacious suites in its category, breathtaking public spaces, and more outdoor wildlife viewing spaces than other expedition ships its size. With two dining areas, four bars, a panoramic lounge, theatre, library, spa and fitness centre, Polar boutique and an oceanview sauna your days at sea can be as busy or relaxing as you decide.

Day 1 Buenos Aires, Argentina

Day 2 Embarkation in Ushuaia

In the morning board your flight to Ushuaia. In afternoon you will join a group transfer to the pier and board the ship. You will set sail in the late afternoon passing through the Beagle Channel. Explore the ship and get comfortable in your cabin and meet your fellow travellers. As you begin your trip to Antarctica you will notice sea birds hovering overhead.

Days 3-4 Drake Passage

Days 5-7 Antarctic Peninsula and South Shetland Islands

With the Drake Passage left in your wake, the ship will make its approach to Antarctica. Have your camera ready as the continent’s coastline makes its first appearance, signaling the start of your adventure along the Antarctic Peninsula. You’ll see floating icebergs and be fixated on the ocean surface as curious whales spout and breach before your eyes.

As exciting as it can be from on board the ship, your true exploration occurs when you disembark and set foot on the White Continent. There are several potential landing sites that you may visit, including Neko Harbour, Orne Harbour or Paradise Harbour. Although weather dictates which specific landing sites can be visited, each one presents a new collection of wildlife and natural attractions.

Your days will be busy spotting wildlife from the Zodiacs and from shore, watching penguins waddling on the beach and listening to the crackling and crumbling sounds of icebergs. Kayaking and polar camping are optional activities available on select voyages (at an extra cost).

Days 8-9 Antarctic Circle

Crossing the Antarctic Circle is an impressive achievement, as most expeditions to the Antarctic Peninsula do not reach this far south, which is officially noted at 66°33′ S. If conditions allow the ship to cross this famed line, you and your shipmates will celebrate in style with a glass of champagne! Make a toast and take pride in knowing you’ve made it to a part of the world visited by very few people.

Days 10-11 Northbound Along the Antarctic Peninsula

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. 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 12-13 Drake Passage

As you recross the Drake, Antarctica fades away, leaving you with a collection of memories to last a lifetime. Excited conversations with your fellow travellers 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 Ushuaia / Buenos Aires

After breakfast farewell your expedition team and fellow travellers as you disembark in Ushuaia. You will be transferred to the airport for your flight to Buenos Aires where your journey concludes.