In the wake of Jean-Baptiste Charcot - Antarctic Cruise

In the wake of Jean-Baptiste Charcot | Le Commandant Charcot | Antarctica ToursIn the wake of Jean-Baptiste Charcot | Le Commandant Charcot | Antarctica Tours
Experience a remarkable 15-day expedition that begins in Ushuaia, the gateway to Antarctica, where breathtaking landscapes and diverse wildlife await. Cross the iconic Drake Passage, gaining insight into the region's history and ecology while spotting seabirds. Traverse the Antarctic Circle, witness the stunning Gullet passage, and explore the enigmatic Charcot Island, home to thriving marine life. Discover the majestic Marguerite Bay and its icebergs, then navigate the Antarctic Peninsula, encountering penguins and seals in a surreal setting. Conclude your journey by retracing your path through the Drake Passage back to Ushuaia, filled with unforgettable memories of this remote and pristine wilderness.

15 Day Antarctica Itinerary

Day 1: Ushuaia

As the capital of Tierra del Fuego province in Argentina, Ushuaia serves as the gateway to Antarctica and the South Pole. Known as "El fin del mundo," this city is nestled in a mountainous region surrounded by lush plains, providing a sanctuary for diverse wildlife. With the Andes mountains meeting the sea, Ushuaia stands out as one of the most captivating locations on Earth, symbolizing extraordinary journeys to remote destinations.

Meals Included: Lunch / Dinner

Day 2 & 3: Drake Passage

During your time in the Drake Passage, familiarize yourself with the ship and learn about Antarctica. The Expedition Leader will introduce important guidelines for landings and provide insights into zodiac excursions. Lectures on Antarctic history and wildlife will enhance your understanding of this enchanting region, where every journey is unique. Enjoy the sailing experience and join naturalist-guides on deck to spot seabirds such as albatrosses and petrels.

Meals Included: Breakfast / Lunch / Dinner

Day 4: Antarctic Circle & The Gullet

Antarctic Circle

Weather permitting, you'll cross the iconic line of the Antarctic Polar Circle at 66°33’ south of the Equator. This line marks the area where the midnight sun can be seen during the December solstice, allowing the sun to remain above the horizon for 24 hours at least once a year. This rare experience of crossing the circle will undoubtedly be a highlight of your polar adventure.

The Gullet

The stunning landscapes of the narrow channel between two landmasses captivate visitors heading toward Marguerite Bay. This icy corridor resembles a palace of ice, with its pristine white walls mirrored in the waters of the Southern Ocean, dotted with icebergs. First explored in 1909, it has since become a site for capturing some of the earliest underwater images of Antarctica during a significant expedition in the 1970s.

Meals Included: Breakfast / Lunch / Dinner

Day 5 & 6: Charcot Island

Discovered in 1910, this island surrounded by sea ice has remained largely unexplored, with few people having landed there. The island features ice-covered cliffs, with some rocky outcrops in the north. Recent changes in ice conditions have separated it from a nearby landmass. The waters attract various seabirds, making it a unique ecological site.

Meals Included: Breakfast / Lunch / Dinner

Day 7: Bellingshausen Sea

Stretching from the west of the Antarctic Peninsula to another sea, this body of water is named after a Russian explorer credited with the first confirmed sighting of mainland Antarctica. It surrounds two of the largest islands in the region and is known for its impressive ice formations. The coastal areas are home to emperor penguin colonies, and depending on the time of year, you may observe various stages of their life cycle.

Meals Included: Breakfast / Lunch / Dinner

Day 8: At Sea

Enjoy remarkable moments aboard a luxury polar exploration vessel designed to navigate icy waters inaccessible to standard ships. Equipped with specialized scientific tools, the vessel offers opportunities for lectures and discussions with experts on polar research. Engage in scientific initiatives to uncover the mysteries of these fascinating destinations.

Meals Included: Breakfast / Lunch / Dinner

Day 9: Marguerite Bay

Characterized by stunning icebergs and deep blue waters, this bay is one of Antarctica's most beautiful areas. Surrounded by mountains and significant land formations, it was named by an early explorer during his scientific mission in the early 20th century. The region is inhabited by various marine life, offering chances to spot seals and penguins.

Meals Included: Breakfast / Lunch / Dinner

Day 10: Pourquoi Pas Island

An expedition team will land on this mountainous island, named in honor of an early explorer. Stretching across 28 km, it features narrow fjords and snow-covered peaks. A zodiac ride to shore provides an opportunity to see penguins in their natural habitat along the rocky coasts.

Meals Included: Breakfast / Lunch / Dinner

Day 11 & 12: Antarctic Peninsula

Experience the allure of the Antarctic Peninsula, known for its breathtaking scenery and diverse wildlife. As you explore, you may encounter penguins, whales, and seals amidst stunning landscapes of ice and snow. Daily excursions will be organized based on ice conditions, revealing the incredible beauty of this remote region, once traversed by legendary explorers.

Meals Included: Breakfast / Lunch / Dinner

Day 13 & 14: Drake Passage

Renowned for its challenging conditions, this waterway connects Antarctica to South America. Situated in a zone with strong winds, it is known for its rich marine life. Keep an eye on the sky for graceful seabirds gliding around the ship.

Meals Included: Breakfast / Lunch / Dinner

Day 15: Ushuaia

As your journey concludes, return to Ushuaia, the gateway to Antarctica. Surrounded by mountains and fertile plains, this captivating city represents extraordinary adventures to some of the most remote places on Earth.
Meals Included: Breakfast
 | Faroe Islands |  Antarctica
 | Scoresby Sund | Icebergs floating
+12
 | Lemaire Channel  |  Antarctica
 | Neumayer Channel |  Antarctica | Disko Island | huge icebergsBrown Bluff | Antarctic Peninsula | Zodiac landing | Chilean Fjords |  Antarctica | Falkland | Penguins Colony | Falkland | Black-browed AlbatrossNeko Harbour | Antarctic Peninsula |  AntarcticaBeagle Channel | Ushuaia |  Antarctica | Jan Mayen |  Antarctica | Falkland | Bird | Cierva Cove |  Antarctica | Falkland | Rockhopper, Black-browed Albatross colony

15 Day Antarctica Itinerary Includes

  • All-inclusive dining (gourmet French cuisine)
  • 24-hour room service
  • Excursions: Zodiac rides, kayaking, dog sledding
  • Entertainment: live music, shows, lectures
  • Scientific activities (citizen science programs)
  • Access to spa, heated pool, Blue Lagoon​

15 Day Antarctica Itinerary Does not Include

  • Shore excursions (varies by destination)
  • Premium spa services and treatments
  • Alcoholic beverages (some exclusions)
  • Personal shopping expenses
  • Tips for the local guide

15 Day Antarctica Itinerary Highlights

  • Cross the Antarctic Circle, experiencing 24-hour daylight in a pristine polar environment.
  • Spot emperor penguins, seals, and whales amidst stunning icebergs in Marguerite Bay.
  • Sail through the dramatic Drake Passage, home to albatrosses and Cape petrels.

Itinerary Map

In the wake of Jean-Baptiste Charcot

15 Day Antarctica cruise activities

Sea Kayaking
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.
Ice Camping
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.
Snowshoeing
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.
Photography
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.
Explorer Boats
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.
Yoga
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.

Animals you might see on this itinerary

Antartida 15 Days
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