Weddell Sea Adventure - Antarctic Cruises

OVERVIEW:

Ushuaia, Argentina to Ushuaia, Argentina | Duration: 12 Days | Ship: Ocean Albatros

Join us for a once-in-a-lifetime adventure to the Weddell Sea and the Seventh Continent. Experience the incredible wildlife of these icy waters, dive deep into the pristine nature of Antarctica on a complimentary kayak, snowshoe, or camping excursion in this 12-day action-packed adventure.

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. From here, we will venture into the Antarctic Sound and the icy Weddell Sea, the vast icebound wilderness which defeated many early Antarctic expeditions.

DAY 1 – ARRIVAL IN USHUAIA, EMBARKATION
Arrive in Ushuaia, Argentina – the world's southernmost city. Explore this vibrant Patagonian city, or stretch your legs in the surrounding forests. The island of Tierra del Fuego is a hiker's paradise with rugged snow-capped mountains, glaciers, flower-filled meadows and rich boggy wetlands. In the afternoon, we board our vessel.

DAY 2-3 – AT SEA, CROSSING THE DRAKE PASSAGE SOUTHBOUND
Sailing onward, we cross the famed Drake Passage – the body of water separating Patagonia and the Antarctic Peninsula. The Drake Passage is known for rollicking conditions and strong westerly winds, nicknamed the Roaring Fifties. While this passage may be challenging, you can rest comfortably aboard our expedition vessels, which are purpose-built with stabilizers, powerful engines and manned by a highly-qualified crew.

DAY 4-6 – SOUTH SHETLAND ISLANDS, ANTARCTIC SOUND & WEDDELL SEA
Exploring the South Shetland Islands and the Antarctic Sound, we discover the vast Adelie Penguin colonies at Hope Bay and Devil's Island, to the dramatic volcanic cliffs at Brown Bluff. Continuing southward into the Weddell Sea, we encounter immense tabular icebergs and the expansive icepack which nurtures Antarctic krill.

DAY 7-8 – THE ANTARCTIC PENINSULA
We venture further west along the Antarctic Peninsula into the Gerlache Strait region. From Zodiac cruises in Paradise Bay, to witnessing penguins nesting on Cuverville Island, each potential stop promises awe-inspiring encounters. Explore historic huts at Damoy Point, witness humpback whales in Wilhelmina Bay, and marvel at the jaw-dropping scenery of the Lemaire Channel.

DAY 9 – THE SOUTH SHETLAND ISLANDS
Our Antarctic odyssey culminates amidst the rugged beauty of the South Shetland Islands. Experience the eerie landscape of Deception Island, an active volcanic crater with black steaming sands and rusting ruins, or witness the bustling penguin colonies on Aitcho and Half Moon Islands.

DAY 10-11 – AT SEA, CROSSING THE DRAKE PASSAGE NORTHBOUND
We eventually depart Antarctica, and spend two days at sea on our way northwards back across the Drake Passage towards Ushuaia. During your last evening onboard, join the Captain and Officers for the Farewell Cocktail Party.

DAY 12 – ARRIVAL IN USHUAIA AND DISEMBARKATION
On the morning of the final day, we arrive back at the pier of Ushuaia. After a hearty breakfast, it is time to bid a fond farewell to the Crew and Expedition Team.