Antarctic Peninsula Air & Sea Micro Cruise | 10 Days

Discover Antarctica through an expedition that combines the adventure of arriving by sea with the convenience of departing by air on the Antarctic Peninsula Expedition Micro Cruise by Air & Sea. This 10-day journey begins in Ushuaia, Argentina, with an overnight stay at Arakur Ushuaia Resort & Spa before boarding Aureum, an intimate polar expedition vessel accommodating just 36 guests. Sail through the Beagle Channel and spend two days crossing the legendary Drake Passage, where wandering albatrosses accompany the voyage and experienced guides introduce the fascinating world of polar exploration. Once in Antarctica, enjoy four planned days discovering the extraordinary landscapes and wildlife of the Antarctic Peninsula, with possible visits to the Gerlache Strait, Wilhelmina Bay, Paradise Bay, Lemaire Channel, and Deception Island. Six senior polar guides, four Zodiacs, and a dedicated photography guide support opportunities to observe penguin colonies, seals, humpback whales, minke whales, and spectacular ice formations. When conditions permit, step ashore on the seventh continent and experience Antarctica beyond the ship. Instead of returning across the Drake Passage, complete your journey with an approximately 2.5-hour charter flight from King George Island to Puerto Natales, Chile, followed by a farewell evening at Weskar Lodge. With its adaptable itinerary, exceptional guiding team, and carefully designed combination of sailing and flying, this expedition offers a distinctive way to experience the Antarctic wilderness.

10 Day Antarctica Itinerary

Day 1: Welcome to Ushuaia, the Gateway to Antarctica

Your adventure begins in Ushuaia, Argentina, the southernmost city in the world and the departure point for your Antarctic expedition. Upon arrival, enjoy an included transfer to Arakur Ushuaia Resort & Spa, where your first overnight stay is arranged. Surrounded by the landscapes of Tierra del Fuego, the resort provides a comfortable setting before your journey across the Southern Ocean. Guests have access to the hotel's fitness center, indoor swimming pool, indoor and outdoor relaxation pools, outdoor hot tubs, and pool bar. For those interested in discovering the surrounding environment, the property also offers access to the walking trails of the Cerro Alarkén Nature Reserve. This first day provides time to settle into Patagonia and enjoy the facilities available at the resort. Your included hotel accommodation features breakfast, as specified in the expedition's published inclusions.

Meals Included: Lunch / Dinner

Day 2: Boarding Aureum and Sailing Through the Beagle Channel

Spend the morning enjoying Ushuaia at your own pace before beginning the maritime portion of your expedition. The operator's Ushuaia Handbook provides suggestions for travelers interested in exploring the city before embarkation. Later in the day, an included transfer takes you from the hotel to the pier. Boarding aboard Aureum is scheduled between 4:00 PM and 5:00 PM. Once all guests are aboard, the expedition team conducts mandatory safety briefings to prepare everyone for the voyage ahead. The evening brings a welcome cocktail and dinner as Aureum departs through the Beagle Channel. With the mountains of Tierra del Fuego behind you, the journey toward Antarctica officially begins. The expedition vessel accommodates only 36 guests and is supported by 26 crew members and six senior polar guides. Ahead lies the Drake Passage, one of the most celebrated ocean crossings in polar exploration.

Meals Included: Breakfast / Lunch / Dinner

Day 3: The Drake Passage: Entering the Southern Ocean

The voyage continues south into the Drake Passage, the legendary stretch of ocean between South America and Antarctica. For many travelers, sailing this route is an essential part of the Antarctic experience. The passage connects the waters of the Pacific and Atlantic Oceans, creating an immense marine environment shaped by powerful ocean conditions. Aureum's fin stabilizers are designed to improve comfort while crossing open water. During the journey, the expedition team offers an educational program that includes polar science presentations, photography workshops, and accounts of previous polar experiences. When weather conditions permit, travelers can venture onto the observation decks to watch seabirds moving above the ocean. Wandering albatrosses are among the remarkable species that may accompany the ship, gliding across the swells with their impressive wingspans. The expedition guides provide interpretation and help identify wildlife encountered during the crossing.

Meals Included: Breakfast / Lunch / Dinner

Day 4: Across the Drake Passage Toward the Antarctic Peninsula

Continue your journey across the Southern Ocean as the Antarctic Peninsula draws closer. The crossing offers a distinctive opportunity to appreciate the vast distance separating South America from the Antarctic continent. Onboard presentations and photography workshops continue, allowing travelers to learn more about polar environments and the wildlife they may encounter during the expedition. When conditions allow, guests can spend time outdoors watching seabirds and observing the changing ocean scenery. Wandering albatrosses may remain visible around the ship, while the guiding team shares information about the species found in these waters. The source notes that the Antarctic Peninsula may become visible toward the end of Day 3, although Days 3 and 4 are allocated to the Drake Passage crossing. The exact progression of the voyage depends on sea conditions and operational circumstances. As Aureum approaches Antarctica, the expedition prepares for four planned days of exploration along the Peninsula.

Meals Included: Breakfast / Lunch / Dinner

Day 5: First Steps into the Antarctic Wilderness

The Antarctic Peninsula becomes the center of the expedition as the planned four-day exploration period begins. Here, dramatic mountain ranges, glaciers, immense icebergs, and wildlife-rich coastal environments create a landscape unlike any other. The expedition does not follow a rigid daily schedule. Instead, the captain and senior polar guides determine where to explore according to weather, sea ice, wildlife activity, and landing opportunities. Potential destinations include the Gerlache Strait, Wilhelmina Bay, Cuverville Island, Paradise Bay, Lemaire Channel, and Deception Island. Zodiac excursions provide opportunities to navigate coastal waters and experience Antarctic scenery from a different perspective. When conditions and permissions allow, guests may also participate in shore landings. Setting foot on the Antarctic continent is one of the defining ambitions of the voyage. With four Zodiacs available for only 36 passengers, the expedition is designed to allow everyone to explore together without lengthy waiting periods.

Meals Included: Breakfast / Lunch / Dinner

Day 6: Wildlife Encounters Along the Antarctic Coast

Continue discovering the Peninsula's remarkable wildlife habitats during the expedition's flexible exploration program. Antarctic coastal environments support several penguin species, including gentoo, chinstrap, and Adélie penguins. Seals are another important part of the region's wildlife. Leopard, Weddell, and crabeater seals may be encountered in the waters or resting on ice. Humpback and minke whales also inhabit Antarctic channels and may be observed during the voyage. Above the coastline, travelers may see petrels, skuas, and Antarctic terns. Possible exploration areas include Cierva Cove, Trinity Island, Mikkelsen Harbour, Hydrurga Rocks, and Hughes Bay. The actual route is selected according to prevailing conditions rather than a fixed sequence of destinations. Guests may participate in Zodiac cruises, authorized shore landings, wildlife observation, and photography activities. A dedicated photography guide is available to help capture wildlife behavior, Antarctic scenery, and dramatic ice formations.

Meals Included: Breakfast / Lunch / Dinner

Day 7: Navigating the Gerlache Strait and Its Hidden Bays

The expedition may enter the Gerlache Strait, one of the Antarctic Peninsula's most spectacular waterways. Surrounded by jagged peaks and impressive coastal landscapes, this region offers a variety of potential exploration sites. Among the possible destinations are Wilhelmina Bay, Cuverville Island, Errera Channel, Neko Harbour, Paradise Bay, and the area around Almirante Brown Station. These locations are part of the expedition's wider exploration range and are not guaranteed visits. Depending on conditions, travelers may observe humpback whales in the channels, penguin colonies along the coastline, and seals resting on ice. Zodiac excursions allow guests to explore Antarctic waters, while shore landings may provide opportunities to experience the continent directly. The expedition's six senior polar guides can adapt the day's activities as conditions change. If an exceptional wildlife encounter occurs, the team may remain longer rather than rushing to follow a predetermined schedule.

Meals Included: Breakfast / Lunch / Dinner

Day 8: Final Discoveries Among Antarctica's Icebergs

The final planned day of Antarctic Peninsula exploration offers another opportunity to experience the region's extraordinary scenery and wildlife. Depending on the ship's position, weather, and ice conditions, potential destinations include Dallman Bay, the Melchior Islands, Neumayer Channel, Port Lockroy, Lemaire Channel, Half Moon Island, Yankee Harbour, Whalers Bay, Baily Head, and Deception Island. These locations are possibilities within the expedition's navigation range, not confirmed daily stops. The guiding team may organize Zodiac cruises, wildlife observation, photography activities, and permitted shore landings. Throughout the exploration period, travelers may encounter immense icebergs, glaciers, penguin colonies, seals, and whales. The small-group format allows the expedition to respond to opportunities as they arise, prioritizing meaningful experiences over a rigid timetable. As the four-day Antarctic exploration period approaches its conclusion, Aureum prepares for the next stage of the journey: the flight from King George Island to Puerto Natales.

Meals Included: Breakfast / Lunch / Dinner

Day 9: Leaving Antarctica by Air and Returning to Patagonia

The expedition prepares to depart Antarctica from King George Island, where a charter aircraft provides the connection to Puerto Natales, Chile. Instead of spending another two days sailing through the Drake Passage, travelers return to South America on a flight lasting approximately two and a half hours. The aircraft may be a BAE 146-200, RJ-85, or RJ-100, depending on the operation. The published luggage allowance is 25 kg of checked baggage and 5 kg of carry-on baggage, subject to standard size restrictions. Antarctic flight operations depend on safe weather conditions, so departure times remain flexible. If the flight cannot operate as planned, the expedition continues in Antarctica until a suitable weather window becomes available. Upon arrival in Puerto Natales, guests proceed to Weskar Lodge for their final scheduled overnight stay. A farewell dinner provides an opportunity to reflect on the voyage and the remarkable experiences shared in Antarctica.

Meals Included: Breakfast / Lunch / Dinner

Day 10: Discover Puerto Natales and Conclude Your Expedition

Your Antarctic journey concludes in Puerto Natales, Chile, a gateway to the landscapes of Patagonia. This frontier town is recognized for its relaxed atmosphere, local seafood, and distinctive regional character. The final day offers an opportunity to appreciate the surroundings before the expedition officially ends. Travelers wishing to spend more time in the area may consider exploring nearby Torres del Paine National Park. Part of the UNESCO Torres del Paine Biosphere Reserve, the park is known for its granite towers, glaciers, turquoise lakes, and wildlife. For expeditions ending in Puerto Natales, Secret Atlas offers its Peace of Mind Programme. When applicable and subject to published terms, the program may provide up to three additional nights of accommodation with breakfast in Puerto Natales. This arrangement offers additional flexibility around weather-dependent Antarctic flight operations. The scheduled 10-day expedition concludes in Puerto Natales.

Meals Included: Breakfast

10 Day Antarctica Itinerary Includes

Accommodation aboard the MV Aureum in the selected cabin category.

Full-board dining throughout the expedition.

Tea, coffee, drinking water, and selected beverages with meals.

Daily cabin housekeeping service.

Guided Zodiac cruises and shore landings, subject to weather and ice conditions.

Expert expedition leadership and professional polar guides.

Educational lectures, presentations, and workshops.

Wildlife observation and photography guidance.

Complimentary use of rubber expedition boots during shore excursions.

Starlink Wi-Fi access, subject to availability in remote polar regions.

Access to onboard medical facilities and the expedition doctor (consultations and treatment may incur additional charges).

Applicable expedition permits, port charges, and operational fees.

Pre-departure information and assistance from the Secret Atlas team.

10 Day Antarctica Itinerary Does not Include

International and domestic flights unless specifically included in the selected itinerary.

Passport, visa, vaccination, and other entry-related expenses.

Mandatory comprehensive travel insurance, including medical evacuation coverage.

Additional hotel accommodation before or after the expedition unless expressly included.

Meals and transfers not specified in the confirmed itinerary.

Personal expenses, including laundry, telephone calls, and premium internet services.

Alcoholic beverages and bar purchases outside the included beverage service.

Personal clothing and expedition equipment not expressly provided.

Medical treatment, medication, evacuation, and repatriation expenses.

Excess baggage fees and additional luggage charges.

Optional activities, private excursions, and independent arrangements not included in the itinerary.

Gratuities for the ship's crew and expedition team.

Additional services not expressly included in the confirmed booking.

10 Day Antarctica Itinerary Highlights

Sail the legendary Drake Passage: Experience the two-day journey south from Ushuaia across one of the world's most renowned ocean crossings.

Return from Antarctica by air: Replace the return Drake Passage crossing with an approximately 2.5-hour charter flight from King George Island to Puerto Natales.

Exclusive small-group expedition: Travel aboard Aureum with a maximum of 36 guests, six senior polar guides, and four Zodiacs.

Four planned days exploring Antarctica: Discover the Peninsula's spectacular bays, channels, glaciers, and wildlife habitats.

The opportunity to land on the seventh continent: Experience the possibility of stepping ashore on Antarctica when conditions and permissions allow.

Remarkable wildlife encounters: Look for gentoo, chinstrap, and Adélie penguins, seals, humpback whales, minke whales, and Antarctic seabirds.

Zodiac exploration: Navigate among icebergs and discover remote coastal environments with experienced polar guides.

Dedicated photography support: Benefit from guidance and workshops focused on capturing wildlife and Antarctic landscapes.

Purpose-designed expedition vessel: Enjoy Aureum's ice-class construction, hybrid propulsion, fin stabilizers, and observation areas.

Farewell evening in Patagonia: Complete the journey with a stay at Weskar Lodge and a farewell dinner in Puerto Natales.

Specialist activities on selected departures: Sea kayaking and light mountaineering may be available subject to conditions, availability, and guide approval.

10 Day Antarctica cruise activities

Under full instruction from your sea kayaking guide, experience true tranquillity as you paddle through clinking ice floes and realise the enormity of the surrounding scenery. Look out for breaching whales, lounging seals and penguins zipping alongside your kayak. Some experience is required.

Camp out on the ice and experience the silence which blankets the continent by night. This is your chance to completely connect with this ethereal ice world – wrap up warm and embrace the Antarctic elements.

Get a spring in your step when you slip on a pair of snowshoes in Antarctica. Enabling you to easily scale gentle slopes, this unique activity allows you to access hard to reach places and seek out the most impressive views.

Learn to capture wildlife and landscape shots in a small group photography program, including critiquing sessions and editing classes. Plus, Explorer Boat excursions with a dedicated photography expert on landings.

Achieve the best views and photographs from a forward facing Explorer Boats. They allow you to sit comfortably and securely while crackling through the ice-strewn waters. Look out for wildlife such as penguins, seals and whales as you cruise.

It doesn’t get more serene than complimentary yoga classes to the tune of glacial scenery. Join the most unique exercise setting in the world after a day of exploration. Classes are regular but are dependent on weather conditions and swell.

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