Classic Antarctica

The itinerary outlines a 10-day journey to Antarctica aboard the USHUAIA. It commences in Ushuaia with sailing along the Beagle Channel and crossing the challenging Drake Passage, renowned for its rich marine life. Subsequently, exploration of the South Shetland Islands and the majestic Antarctic Peninsula, teeming with various species of penguins, seals, and whales, ensues. Lastly, the return to Ushuaia via the Drake Passage concludes the expedition, providing opportunities for seabird and whale sightings and time for reflection on the adventures experienced.

10 Day Antarctica Itinerary

Day 1: Depart from Ushuaia

Meet your lecture and expedition staff in the late afternoon. We sail the Beagle Channel, and scenic Mackinlay Pass after you settle into your cabins.

Day 2 & 3: Crossing the Drake Passage

The Drake Passage, named after Sir Francis Drake who explored these waters back in 1578 marks a convergence of cold water from the Antarctic and warmer waters. The result is a huge upwelling of nutrients that sustains biodiversity in this area. Drake Passage is also the northernmost limit for many Antarctic seabirds.

Antarpply Expeditions lecturers are on the deck with you to identify the amazing array of seabirds that follow us, such as the albatrosses. Open bridges are a USHUAIA policy that allows passengers to learn navigation and whale watching from our officers. There will also be a full schedule of lectures.

We have now reached the South Shetland Islands. This group of 20 islands and islets was first discovered in February 1819, by Captain. William Smith, the captain of the Williams brig. On Day 3, our naturalists and lecturers will be with you as you have your first experience of penguins or seals.

Day 4 to 7: Exploring the Antarctic Peninsula and the South Shetland Islands

South Shetland Islands is a wildlife haven. The South Shetland Islands are a paradise for wildlife. The narrow passage that leads to the caldera on Deception Island, which is flooded with water, is stunning.

King George Island is the largest South Shetland Island. It has colonies of Gentoo Penguins, Chinstrap Penguins nesting, Kelp Gulls Blue-Eyed Cormorants Antarctic Terns Southern Giant Petrels as well as scientific bases from many countries. Livingston Island is home to Gentoo and Chinstrap Penguins, as well as Elephant Seals.

You will experience a level of adventure that is usually only experienced by early explorers. There will be plenty of time for you to enjoy the amazing landscape, which includes a wilderness of mountains, waterways, snow and ice. You can also see a wide range of wildlife. You are likely to spot Weddell seals, leopard, and crabeater seals, as well as Minke (orca), killer and humpback Whales.

The Lemaire Channel is a narrow channel between rock walls and glaciers. At least two landings are planned per day. Possible landing sites include:

Paradise Bay may be the best-named place on earth and we try to land in Antarctica. We hope to see the busy Adelie Penguin colonies (more than 100,000 pairs of these birds breed on Paulet Island) after navigating the icebergs-strewn waters in the Antarctic Sound. In 1903, the Nordenskjold Expedition built here a survival stone hut. The penguins have taken over the ruins of this hut.

You can continue your exploration by visiting the Melchior Island Group, Cuverville Island (and its group), Portal Point, Neko Harbour and Pleneau Island. If ice conditions allow, you may also visit Petermann Island to see the southernmost Gentoo penguin colony.

Day 8 & 9: At Sea crossing the Drake Passage, northbound

As we leave Antarctica, the Drake Passage leads us north. Enjoy a final lecture and join our naturalists as they search for whales, seabirds, and other marine life. On the return trip to Ushuaia, take the opportunity to reflect and relax on your fascinating experiences of the previous days.

Day 10: Arrival in Ushuaia

Arriving at Ushuaia early in the morning, we disembark after breakfast.

Please be aware: This itinerary is only a guide. The exact itinerary and program may vary depending on the local conditions, including weather and ice. We will also take into consideration wildlife viewing opportunities. The Captain or Expedition Leader will make changes to the itinerary based on the current conditions. On board, a daily schedule will be distributed. Flexible thinking is key.

Itineraries A191222, a291222, a080123, and A170223 offer an additional day to the Antarctic Peninsula or the South Shetland Islands.

10 Day Antarctica Itinerary Highlights

Discovering the majestic Antarctic Peninsula, teeming with abundant wildlife, including penguins, seals, and whales, while navigating through narrow channels and stunning glaciers.

Encounter diverse Antarctic wildlife, from playful penguins to majestic seals, on the South Shetland Islands and beyond.

Explore historic landmarks, such as Paradise Bay and Paulet Island, offering insights into the Antarctic Peninsula's exploration legacy.

Engage in daily lectures by Antarpply Expeditions’ staff, covering navigation, wildlife identification, and the Antarctic ecosystem.

Embrace a flexible itinerary to optimize weather and wildlife opportunities, concluding with reflection during the return crossing of the Drake Passage.

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.