Peninsula & South Shetland - Antarctic Cruises

OVERVIEW

Ship: Ocean Victory | Duration: 10 Days

Experience incredible wildlife, stunning scenery and gigantic icebergs in action-packed days on the Last Continent on our classic 10-day voyage to the Antarctic Peninsula.

Departing Argentina's southernmost city of Ushuaia, we cross the mighty Drake Passage en-route to the South Shetland Islands. The unique X-Bow design of our expedition vessels offers exceptional stability at sea, giving you a smoother ride across some of Earth's most challenging waters.

Continuing southward from the South Shetland Islands, we will delve deeper into the inlets and bays of the Antarctic Peninsula, entering the famous Gerlache Strait, where glittering ice cliffs and precipitous peaks rise straight out of the frigid water.

DAY 1 – ARRIVAL IN USHUAIA, EMBARKATION
Arrive in Ushuaia, Argentina – the world's southernmost city. Explore this vibrant Patagonian city. In the afternoon, we board our vessel, waiting to welcome us in port.

DAY 2-3 – AT SEA, CROSSING THE DRAKE PASSAGE SOUTHBOUND
Sailing onward, we cross the famed Drake Passage. The most spirited sailors consider Drake Passage a lifetime achievement – and you will complete the crossing twice! Our dedicated Expedition Team will assist you to biosecure your clothing and equipment, as well as sharing tailored lectures on Antarctic exploration history, wildlife, geology, glaciology and more!

DAY 4-7 – SOUTH SHETLAND ISLANDS & THE ANTARCTIC PENINSULA
Our Antarctic adventure begins in the South Shetland Islands – large Gentoo and Chinstrap Penguin colonies, and an abundance of large seabirds such as predatory Giant Petrels. Landing sites which may be visited include the black steaming sands and rusting ruins of Deception Island, the bustling penguin colonies of Aitcho and Half Moon Islands, or the old sealers' anchorage of Yankee Harbour.

The following days will be spent exploring further south on the Antarctic Peninsula in the Gerlache Strait region. Marvel at the massive icebergs and vast glaciers on a Zodiac cruise in Paradise Bay. Be moved by penguins tenderly caring for their precious eggs on Cuverville Island. Watch cataracts of ice tumble into clear blue ocean on a hike over the active glaciers of Neko Harbour. Feel the spray of water from the blow of a humpback whale on a Zodiac safari in Wilhelmina Bay. Wonder at awe-inspiring scenery on a ship cruise through the Lemaire Channel.

DAY 8-9 – AT SEA, CROSSING THE DRAKE PASSAGE NORTHBOUND
We eventually depart Antarctica, and spend two days at sea on our way northwards back across the infamous Drake Passage. During your last evening onboard, join the Captain and Officers for the Farewell Cocktail Party.

DAY 10 – BACK TO USHUAIA AND DISEMBARKATION
On the morning of the final day, we arrive back at the pier of Ushuaia, Argentina. After a hearty breakfast, it is time to bid a fond farewell to the Crew and Expedition Team.