Antarctica Classic in Depth Expedition | 13 Days

Arrive in Ushuaia, Argentina, widely regarded as the southernmost city in the world and the gateway to Antarctica. Set between the Martial Mountains and the Beagle Channel, Ushuaia offers a striking blend of rugged nature and seafaring culture. Throughout the day, you can explore the city at your own pace, walking along the waterfront, discovering local history, or simply enjoying views of snow-capped peaks rising above the town. This first day allows time to adjust before the expedition begins, while the anticipation of traveling to Antarctica steadily builds. Ushuaia’s remote setting provides the perfect backdrop to reflect on the scale of the adventure ahead and the extraordinary landscapes soon to be encountered far to the south.

The morning offers additional time to explore Ushuaia and its surroundings, whether by strolling through town or appreciating the wild landscapes of Tierra del Fuego. In the afternoon, the expedition officially begins as you board the ship at the port of Ushuaia. Once underway, the vessel sails through the scenic Beagle Channel, a historic waterway once navigated by explorers and adventurers. This calm stretch of water is an ideal introduction to life on board, allowing you to meet fellow travelers, familiarize yourself with the ship, and attend initial briefings. As evening approaches, land gradually fades from view, signaling the transition from South America to the vast Southern Ocean.

The expedition enters the legendary Drake Passage, a 1,000-kilometer crossing that separates South America from Antarctica. Known for its powerful winds and rolling seas, this stretch of ocean is a defining part of any Antarctic journey. Today is dedicated to settling into shipboard life while learning about the region ahead. Attend lectures and information sessions led by the expedition team, covering Antarctic wildlife, geography, and the history of exploration. Time spent on deck can be rewarding, as seabirds such as albatrosses and prions glide effortlessly above the waves. This day provides a deeper appreciation of the vastness and raw power of the Southern Ocean

As the ship continues south, the anticipation of reaching Antarctica intensifies. Educational sessions continue, expanding on the human and natural history of the polar regions. Icebergs may begin to appear, offering the first visual signs of the Antarctic environment. Wildlife sightings remain possible, with whales occasionally surfacing near the ship. This day also allows more time to explore the vessel’s shared spaces, including observation areas and lecture rooms, while getting to know the expedition staff and crew. By the end of the day, conditions permitting, the outlines of the South Shetland Islands may come into view, marking the threshold of the Antarctic realm.

The expedition arrives in the South Shetland Islands, an archipelago known for dramatic volcanic landscapes and abundant wildlife. Weather and ice conditions guide the day’s activities, with the goal of making the first shore landings of the journey. Stepping onto Antarctic terrain for the first time is a powerful moment, surrounded by towering cliffs, glaciers, and the sounds of seabirds. Penguin colonies and seals are commonly encountered in this region, offering unforgettable wildlife experiences. Between excursions, learn about the islands’ role in Antarctic exploration and early sealing history. This day sets the tone for the immersive exploration that follows.

Sailing south through the Bransfield Strait, the expedition reaches the Antarctic Peninsula, one of the most accessible and wildlife-rich regions of Antarctica. The day focuses on exploring glacial bays, icy channels, and coastal landing sites. Conditions permitting, multiple excursions allow close observation of penguin rookeries and seals resting on the ice. Massive glaciers calving into the sea and towering ice cliffs dominate the scenery, creating a sense of scale difficult to comprehend. Educational talks continue on board, providing insight into the peninsula’s ecosystems and the scientific research conducted in the area.

With another full day on the Antarctic Peninsula, the expedition continues to explore new locations selected for their scenic beauty and wildlife activity. Landings may reveal historic sites connected to early explorers or remnants of human activity in this remote region. Wildlife encounters remain a highlight, with opportunities to observe penguins, seals, and whales in their natural environment. The surrounding landscape of snow-covered peaks and floating ice creates ever-changing vistas. Throughout the day, the expedition team shares stories of historic Antarctic expeditions, offering context that deepens appreciation for the challenges faced by those who first ventured here.

This day emphasizes deeper immersion into Antarctica’s pristine environment. Weather permitting, excursions focus on lesser-visited landing sites that showcase the diversity of the peninsula’s landscapes. Quiet moments on shore allow time to absorb the stillness and vastness of the continent, broken only by wind, ice, and wildlife sounds. The fertile waters surrounding the peninsula often attract whales, making sightings possible during both excursions and navigation. Onboard lectures and informal discussions expand on topics such as climate, ice dynamics, and wildlife adaptation, enriching the overall experience.

As the expedition continues its exploration, this day offers additional opportunities to visit new sites along the peninsula and nearby islands. Each landing presents a different perspective, from expansive penguin colonies to dramatic ice formations shaped by wind and sea. The flexibility of the itinerary allows the expedition team to adapt plans in response to weather, ice, and wildlife conditions, maximizing meaningful experiences. Many travelers find this day particularly reflective, as time in Antarctica begins to feel both expansive and fleeting. The sense of being far from the rest of the world is profound.

The final day in Antarctica is dedicated to savoring the last moments on the continent. Excursions focus on memorable locations that highlight the beauty and diversity of the Antarctic Peninsula. Whether observing wildlife, photographing glaciers, or simply standing in silence amid the ice, the experience is deeply moving. As the ship prepares to turn north, there is time to reflect on the journey and the privilege of having explored such a remote place. Antarctica gradually recedes into the distance, leaving lasting impressions and powerful memories.

The ship begins the return journey across the Drake Passage. Life on board takes on a calmer pace, with time to relax, attend final lectures, and share stories with fellow travelers. The observation decks remain a focal point, as seabirds and whales are often spotted in these waters. Educational sessions help tie together the experiences of the past days, offering broader perspectives on Antarctica’s global significance. This day provides space to process the magnitude of the adventure while enjoying the rhythm of the Southern Ocean.

Continuing northward, the ship approaches South America. The expedition team hosts recap sessions highlighting wildlife sightings, key moments, and lessons learned throughout the journey. Time on deck remains rewarding, with opportunities for final wildlife observations. As Ushuaia draws closer, the sense of returning to the familiar contrasts sharply with the remoteness just experienced. This final sea day serves as a bridge between the extraordinary world of Antarctica and the everyday landscapes awaiting on land.

The expedition concludes in Ushuaia after breakfast. Disembark with a deep sense of accomplishment and a collection of unforgettable memories shaped by ice, wildlife, and exploration. The journey leaves travelers with a lasting appreciation for Antarctica’s beauty, scale, and importance, marking the end of an extraordinary polar experience.