From the Arctic to Antarctica | 87 Days | Viking Octantis Cruise

Board your ship and settle into your cabin. Nuuk, Greenland’s capital, is one of the smallest capital cities in the world, home to just 16,000 residents. Nestled on the southwest coast, Nuuk boasts one of the planet’s largest fjords—Nuup Kangerlua—teeming with marine life, including frequently spotted whales. Visitors are drawn to the city’s dramatic coastline for hiking or exploring the fjord by boat or kayak. The city’s rugged terrain is enhanced by its colorful houses, set against the striking backdrop of Sermitsiaq Mountain.

Nuuk’s earliest Inuit inhabitants arrived from the Canadian Arctic around 4,500 years ago, deeply rooting the city in indigenous heritage. Today, Nuuk proudly celebrates this legacy, reflected in the traditional Inuit patterns woven into local knitwear and the fusion of modern Danish and indigenous cultures in its art. Colonial Harbor, lined with vibrant homes, stands as an architectural highlight, while the Katuaq Cultural Center—designed to reflect the northern lights and Arctic mountains—serves as the city’s cultural hub.

Greenland’s western coastline is a spectacular Arctic route, frequently used by locals for transportation. Iceberg-laden waters glide past ever-changing landscapes, reminiscent of paths once traversed by legendary explorers. Among them was Alfred Wegener, known as the father of the continental drift theory. His expeditions to Greenland inspired John Buchan’s 1933 novel, A Prince of the Captivity.

Rich in Arctic history, Ilulissat sits on the pristine waters at the mouth of the renowned Ilulissat Icefjord. Its colorful homes offer a front-row seat to a never-ending procession of icebergs drifting through the fjord—a phenomenon that earned Ilulissat UNESCO World Heritage status. The fjord is fed by the Sermeq Kujalleq, one of the world’s fastest-moving glaciers, producing colossal icebergs that float into the ocean. The town’s name, “Ilulissat,” means “icebergs” in the Kalaallisut language, a fitting tribute to its breathtaking environment.

Founded in 1758, Uummannaq is known for its heart-shaped mountain, which casts a striking red glow under the midnight sun. Historic buildings line the harbor, and the town’s past is carefully preserved at the Uummannaq Museum. Among its most significant discoveries are Greenland’s oldest human remains, dating back over 500 years. The museum also honors the legacy of Alfred Wegener, who embarked on his final expedition from Uummannaq in 1930. Tragically, he perished on Greenland’s ice cap after successfully delivering supplies for a rescue mission.

Navigate the icy waters of Baffin Bay, named after Lieutenant William Baffin, who explored the region in May 1616. This vast bay plays a crucial role in the Arctic ecosystem, remaining frozen for most of the year, with floating ice remnants appearing in summer. As you sail, attend an insightful lecture or enjoy a film in The Aula, an advanced learning space featuring an 8K laser-projected panoramic screen. This venue blends indoor and outdoor experiences, offering 270° views through retractable floor-to-ceiling windows, immersing you in the stunning Arctic scenery.

Located on the northern shores of Baffin Island at the eastern entrance to the Northwest Passage, Pond Inlet is a vibrant Inuit community often called the “Jewel of the North.” The surrounding landscape is a breathtaking combination of glaciers, icebergs, and towering mountains. Pond Inlet also serves as a gateway to Sirmilik National Park, which translates to “the place of glaciers” in the local language. Covering over 8,400 square miles, this protected area is home to diverse Arctic wildlife, including polar bears, wolves, narwhals, and beluga whales.

The Canadian High Arctic is a land of raw, untouched beauty, where extreme cold and extended periods of darkness define the region. Throughout history, explorers braved these treacherous waters in search of the elusive Northwest Passage. Beechey Island, a historic landmark, is the final resting place of members of the doomed Franklin Expedition. Dundas Harbour, once a Royal Canadian Mounted Police outpost, later became a key site for Arctic explorations. Meanwhile, Cape Hay boasts dramatic cliffs, sweeping panoramas, and unique Arctic wildlife.

Discover the vibrant marine ecosystem of Baffin Bay, a crucial feeding ground for fish, birds, and mammals such as Arctic cod, Greenland halibut, seals, thick-billed murres, and bowhead whales. Relax on the Finse Terrace, a one-of-a-kind outdoor lounge named after a famous Norwegian mountain plateau. This comfortable retreat features heated seating and lava rock firepits, ensuring a cozy experience as you take in the majestic Arctic scenery.

Greenland’s second-largest city is a haven for adventure seekers. Surrounded by towering peaks and vast glacial valleys, Sisimiut offers numerous hiking opportunities with breathtaking views. The Sisimiut Museum showcases open-air exhibits and historic 18th- and 19th-century buildings, some marked by massive whale jawbones at their entrances. Along the shores, traditional kayaks can be seen, paying homage to the Inuit way of life. The very word “kayak” originates from the Greenlandic qajaq.

Greenland boasts a diverse culinary scene, with the capital inviting visitors to indulge in its gourmet dining experiences. Given that much of the country is covered in ice, traditional Greenlandic cuisine is rich in seafood, fish, and meat. Many restaurants serving local specialties feature Suaasat on their menus—a flavorful stew made with potatoes, onions, rice or barley, and meat. Additionally, various cafés and eateries offer tasting platters or tapas-style dishes, allowing guests to sample local delicacies alongside popular international dishes.

Nestled at the far end of the Nuuk Fjord, Kapisillit is a charming village set against a stunning mountain backdrop. Icebergs drift through its deep blue waters, journeying through the Nuuk Icefjord toward the open sea. Several hiking trails lead from the village into the surrounding wilderness, passing by the Kapisillit River—a favored spot for local salmon fishing. Remarkably, this is the only known location in Greenland where salmon spawn, with a unique species that exists nowhere else in the world.

Paamiut is a small town known for its friendly and welcoming community. The local museum is in the process of restoring 11 historic buildings, including a beautifully crafted wooden stave church built in 1909. Visitors can also explore traditional peat houses, which provided shelter for the early Inuit settlers against harsh winter conditions. The town is renowned for having the largest population of white-tailed eagles, majestic birds celebrated as symbols of strength, even serving as lucky mascots for youth sports teams.

Originally settled by Norsemen in the 10th century, Ivittuut flourished in the 19th century due to its rich cryolite deposits. This rare mineral was crucial in refining aluminum and played a key role in manufacturing fighter planes. During World War II, the mine was heavily guarded by Allied forces, with over 85,000 tons of cryolite shipped to the U.S. and Canada. Mining operations ceased in 1987, and the town was soon abandoned. Today, remnants of its past, including well-preserved buildings, offer a glimpse into its history.

Retrace the path of legendary Viking explorer Leif Eriksson, who famously crossed these waters to become the first European to set foot on North American shores. Enjoy your ship’s amenities as you sail—perhaps taking a refreshing walk along the Promenade Deck or starting your day with a workout at the Fitness Center.

Once a thriving 19th-century fishing village on a remote island off the Labrador coast, Battle Harbour played a key role in the cod industry. However, it declined economically after a devastating fire in 1930 and was eventually abandoned. Today, this historic settlement has been carefully restored, serving as a living museum. Visitors can stroll along narrow boardwalks and admire the well-preserved saltbox houses and fishing stages, all set against a rugged and breathtaking landscape.

Situated along a natural harbor on Labrador’s southern coast, Red Bay takes its name from the striking red granite cliffs that define the area. During the 16th and early 17th centuries, it was an important Basque whaling station. Today, Red Bay is both a National Historic Site of Canada and a UNESCO World Heritage Site, preserving its whaling history with artifacts such as a sunken whaling ship, a Basque cemetery, and a reconstructed 16th-century whaling complex.

Spanning nearly 700 square miles, Gros Morne National Park is a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its stunning landscapes, from towering fjords and rugged mountains to dense forests and coastal lowlands. Its most prominent feature, Gros Morne Mountain, rises 2,600 feet above the surroundings, while the Tablelands showcase billion-year-old rock formations. The park is also home to diverse wildlife, including moose, caribou, and black bears.

Located along the northern shore of the Gulf of St. Lawrence, Havre-Saint-Pierre was settled in 1857 by fishermen from the Magdalen Islands. Known as "Cayens," its residents proudly embrace their Acadian heritage. Historically reliant on fishing and lumber, the village now serves as a transit hub for ore transported from Lac Allard mines. The region is renowned for its dramatic landscapes, rich biodiversity, and striking weather-carved monoliths.

A picturesque village at the meeting point of the St. Lawrence River and Saguenay Fjord, Tadoussac has a deep-rooted history as a French trading post dating back to 1599. Despite its historic past, it retains a quaint rural charm. Surrounded by untouched nature, Tadoussac is near several national parks and serves as a prime location for whale watching. In the summer, visitors can spot minke, humpback, fin, and blue whales, while belugas inhabit the waters year-round.

Often described as the most French city in North America, Quebec City’s Old Town is dominated by the grand Château Frontenac, reminiscent of the palaces in France’s Loire Valley. Its streets, lined with white-stone buildings, evoke a medieval European ambiance. Quebec City is also the only fortified city north of Mexico, with walls dating back to the 17th century. Perched on Cape Diamond, it offers strategic views over the St. Lawrence River.

As the cultural hub of Quebec’s Maurice region, Trois-Rivières was established in 1634, making it the second-oldest permanent settlement in New France after Quebec City. Its prime location made it an important center for fur trading with First Nations. The city's name, which means "Three Rivers," comes from the way two islands divide the Saint-Maurice River into three channels before it joins the St. Lawrence.

A marvel of engineering, the St. Lawrence Seaway enables ships to travel from the Atlantic Ocean to Lake Superior via a network of locks, canals, and channels. The route includes seven locks between Montreal and Lake Ontario, bypassing rapids and dams. The Welland Canal, a 27-mile waterway, lifts ships over the Niagara Escarpment to reach Lake Erie, allowing vessels to avoid Niagara Falls. Known as "Highway H2O," this waterway plays a crucial role in international trade.

Toronto is one of Canada’s most dynamic and forward-thinking cities. Situated on the shores of Lake Ontario, it faces the picturesque Toronto Islands. Founded in 1793 by British Loyalists fleeing the American Revolution, the city is best explored on foot. Visitors can admire the Victorian bay-and-gable homes in Rosedale, or explore Wychwood Park, a designated Ontario Heritage Conservation District. Toronto’s Distillery District is home to North America’s most extensive collection of preserved Victorian industrial architecture.

A true cultural melting pot, Toronto is home to a diverse population, with over half of its residents born outside Canada. This diversity is reflected in its vibrant neighborhoods, including Greektown, Little Italy, Koreatown, and Chinatown, where visitors can experience the city’s rich culinary traditions. A must-visit is St. Lawrence Market, a historic marketplace dating back to 1803, where vendors offer everything from fresh produce to antiques.

Toronto’s waterfront boasts numerous green spaces and scenic retreats. The Toronto Islands, an archipelago of 15 small islets, provide an ideal setting for outdoor activities, from kayaking to wildlife watching. Nearby, Tommy Thompson Park offers a peaceful escape just outside the city center. Further along the coast, the Scarborough Bluffs rise dramatically over Lake Ontario, with scenic wooden bridges and inland ponds. The area is also a hub for conservation efforts in Canada’s largest city.

The St. Lawrence Seaway was officially inaugurated on June 26, 1959, in a grand ceremony attended by U.S. President Dwight D. Eisenhower and Queen Eliz29abeth II. The Royal Yacht Britannia traversed the waterway’s seven locks, rising more than 245 feet above sea level. The seaway remains one of the world’s most crucial trade routes, linking the Great Lakes to the Atlantic Ocean.

For centuries, the Algonquin and Abenaki peoples frequented the Trois-Rivières region, drawn by its abundant food resources and relatively mild climate. In the summer, they fished, hunted, and gathered edible plants. Today, the islands at the confluence of the three rivers offer excellent outdoor recreation, with scenic trails perfect for hiking and cycling. The city has also embraced green technology, with a growing industry in wind turbine manufacturing.

One of North America’s oldest European settlements, Quebec City is as renowned for its stunning architecture as for its breathtaking natural surroundings.The city’s beauty once led Charles Dickens to compare it to Gibraltar. One of the best spots to take in the view is the Dufferin Terrace, a historic wooden boardwalk built in the late 19th century. Stretching along Château Frontenac, it provides sweeping views of the Lower Town and the St. Lawrence River.

While Tadoussac is famous for its marine wildlife, it is also home to an intriguing landmark located 1.3 miles off the coast—the Prince Shoal Lighthouse. In 1860, a British ship carrying Albert Edward, the Prince of Wales, ran aground on an uncharted shoal, which was later named in his honor. Several lighthouse structures have since stood on the site, with the current one built in 1956. This distinctive lighthouse continues to guide vessels safely through the waters.

Just across from Havre-Saint-Pierre lies the Mingan Archipelago National Park Reserve, a collection of islands showcasing fascinating geological formations. The coastline features Canada’s largest concentration of monolithic rock formations, sculpted over millennia by wind and waves. Inland, the region’s Arctic-alpine climate supports boreal flora, while the surrounding waters and islands provide a habitat for red foxes, harbor seals, and a variety of migratory birds.

Originally a winter refuge for English fishermen, the port town of Woody Point now sits at the heart of Gros Morne National Park. This UNESCO World Heritage Site boasts spectacular natural wonders, including Bonne Bay’s fjords and the Tablelands’ unique rock formations. Visitors can learn about the park’s geological history at the Discovery Centre, while the town itself features well-preserved historic homes and a lighthouse reflecting its maritime heritage.

As the largest city on Cape Breton Island, Sydney sits at the mouth of the Sydney River, along the southeastern arm of its namesake harbor. Established in 1785 by British Loyalists fleeing the American Revolution, Sydney served as the island’s capital until 1820. During the 19th century, coal mining attracted waves of immigrants, and by the early 20th century, the city had become one of the world’s largest steel producers. Today, Sydney remains Nova Scotia’s second-largest industrial hub.

Halifax combines European charm with a strong maritime heritage. Visitors arriving by sea are welcomed by the 1758 Sambro Island Lighthouse, North America’s oldest surviving lighthouse. The city’s Historic Properties district is lined with grand stone buildings from the 18th and 19th centuries, set along cobblestone streets. Halifax developed around Citadel Hill, where Fort George once protected the harbor. Today, both the fortress and the adjacent Halifax Town Clock have been beautifully restored.

Founded in 1749, Halifax thrived as a naval base rather than a fishing town, setting it apart from other coastal settlements. The city played a key role during the American Revolution and later became Canada’s main wartime port in World War II. Many foreign nationals and military personnel passed through Halifax during this time, and their stories are preserved at the Museum of Immigration at Pier 21, the historic entry point for countless new arrivals to Canada.

Cruise across the vast Atlantic Ocean, where the Mid-Atlantic Ridge—a colossal underwater mountain range—divides the seabed. Longer than the Rockies, Himalayas, and Andes combined, this geological wonder shapes the ocean floor. While at sea, unwind in the Explorers’ Lounge, where floor-to-ceiling windows offer breathtaking panoramic views. Relax with a cocktail or immerse yourself in a captivating book.

New York City is an exhilarating blend of culture, history, and innovation. From the towering skyscrapers of Lower Manhattan’s financial district to the artistic enclaves of Greenwich Village, the city has something for everyone. Music lovers can visit Carnegie Hall, while art enthusiasts explore the Museum of Modern Art or the Guggenheim. Theatergoers experience world-class performances on Broadway, while romantics can take a horse-drawn carriage ride through Central Park.

Venture across legendary waters once believed by medieval Europeans to be home to dragons. Spend the day exploring the well-curated Library, tucked away in a quiet alcove of the Living Room, or relax by the Main Pool, a serene retreat with a retractable roof, ensuring year-round enjoyment.

 

San Salvador is a hidden gem of the Bahamas, known for its pristine beaches, crystal-clear waters, and rich history. The island’s vibrant marine life, including coral reefs and deep blue holes, makes it a paradise for divers and snorkelers. Its untouched landscapes provide a peaceful retreat for nature lovers. Some historical accounts suggest that San Salvador was Christopher Columbus’s first landing site in the Americas in 1492.

 

Tucked away on Great Inagua Island, Man of War Bay offers an unspoiled paradise of turquoise waters, white sandy beaches, and lush surroundings. This remote bay is framed by mangroves and saltwater flats, creating a rich ecosystem that supports a variety of wildlife. The bay’s crystal-clear waters teem with colorful marine life, while its wetlands are a sanctuary for numerous bird species, most notably the striking pink flamingos that gather along its shores.

 

As the capital of Portland Parish, Port Antonio is one of Jamaica’s most scenic destinations. Visitors can explore lush rainforests, unwind on pristine beaches like Frenchman’s Cove and San San Beach, or take a dip in the famous Blue Lagoon, where warm and cool waters mix due to an underground spring. This tropical paradise offers an idyllic retreat, with vibrant coral reefs and tranquil waters perfect for snorkeling and swimming.

Journey through the legendary waters of the Caribbean, where tales of swashbuckling pirates and hidden treasures once unfolded. Enjoy breathtaking ocean views from the Sun Deck, or relax in the Infinity Pool as you glide through this tropical paradise. For a more immersive experience, take a stroll along the Promenade Deck, where the fresh sea breeze complements the stunning scenery.

Connecting the Atlantic and Pacific Oceans, the Panama Canal is a 48-mile-long engineering marvel that takes approximately 8 to 10 hours to traverse.The journey passes through Gatun Lake and the Culebra Cut, a man-made valley carved through the Continental Divide. Ships are lifted and lowered 85 feet through a series of locks, guided by electric locomotives known as mulas. The Panama Canal crossing is an unforgettable experience, marking a significant milestone for any traveler.

A striking blend of modern skyscrapers and colonial charm, Panama City is a dynamic metropolis on the Pacific coast. As Central America’s most cosmopolitan city, it boasts a vibrant financial district alongside the historic Casco Viejo, a UNESCO-listed Old Town filled with charming plazas, historic churches, and elegant colonial buildings. Just beyond the city, the world-famous Panama Canal remains a testament to human ingenuity.

Cross the vast expanse of the Pacific Ocean, named Mar Pacífico by Ferdinand Magellan nearly 500 years ago. Enjoy a leisurely day at sea, taking in the ocean’s boundless horizons. Indulge in world-class dining at the Aquavit Terrace, offering an exquisite selection of international cuisine and handcrafted cocktails. Alternatively, unwind in the Explorer’s Lounge, where floor-to-ceiling panoramic windows provide a perfect setting for relaxation.

Founded in 1535 by Spanish conquistador Francisco Pizarro, Lima was originally named La Ciudad de los Reyes ("The City of Kings"). It quickly became the capital of the Spanish Viceroyalty of Peru and is home to the oldest university in the Americas, the National University of San Marcos. Today, Lima is a cultural powerhouse, showcasing centuries of architectural styles, from Spanish baroque and neoclassical to Art Nouveau. The city’s historic center, adorned with hundreds of colonial-era balconies, is a designated UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Continue your voyage across the Pacific, the world’s largest and most expansive ocean. Covering more than 64 million square miles, it is home to some of the planet’s most extreme environments. Spend a relaxing day at sea, enjoying al fresco dining at the Aquavit Terrace or engaging in a cultural lecture in The Aula, an advanced venue for learning at sea.

Nestled between the Pacific Ocean and the Pampa del Tamarugal plateau in the Atacama Desert, Iquique is a lively coastal city with a fascinating past. Originally part of Peru, it prospered during the saltpeter mining boom before becoming Chilean territory after the War of the Pacific in 1883. The city’s historic core is dotted with elegant Georgian-style buildings from the 19th century, including landmarks like the Municipal Theater, the Moorish-Gothic Clock Tower, and the Casino Español.

Sail across the vast Pacific, a body of water covering over 30% of the Earth's surface and touching four continents. Take advantage of your ship’s amenities, whether it’s a rejuvenating session at the Fitness Center, a brisk walk on the Promenade Deck, or a moment of tranquility in the thermal spa.

Chile’s capital, Santiago, is a bustling metropolis brimming with architectural and cultural landmarks. Nearby, the port city of Valparaíso, with its steep hills and colorful houses, is often likened to San Francisco. Once a major port, Valparaíso’s importance diminished with the opening of the Panama Canal, but its charming Victorian-era architecture and winding streets remain a draw. Visitors can ride the city’s historic ascensores (funiculars) to admire breathtaking views from the hilltops.

Cross the Pacific and delve into its fascinating geological wonders. With over 75,000 volcanoes—many still active—rising from its depths, the Pacific Ocean is home to the planet’s longest mountain range. Attend a lecture on the ocean’s natural history or unwind with a film in The Aula, a high-tech venue designed for exploration and learning at sea.

A breathtaking journey through one of the world’s most remote and untamed landscapes, the Chilean Fjords stretch nearly 1,000 miles. The region features dramatic peaks, glacial rivers, and dense forests, where wildlife such as dolphins, seals, and whales thrive. The pristine waters reflect towering mountains, creating a surreal and awe-inspiring panorama.

A tiny enclave in Patagonia, Puerto Chacabuco serves as a gateway to Chile’s rugged wilderness. The town is named after the 1817 Battle of Chacabuco, a pivotal event in Chile’s fight for independence. Surrounded by jagged peaks, icy-blue glaciers, and dense forests, this remote port offers an unparalleled opportunity to explore the unspoiled beauty of Patagonia.

First inhabited by indigenous peoples who crafted canoes and homes from native conifer trees, the Chilean Fjords later became a refuge for Spanish explorers navigating treacherous waters. Due to its harsh climate, the region remained sparsely populated, preserving its raw natural beauty.

During the last Ice Age, the Patagonian Ice Sheet covered vast parts of southern Chile. As temperatures rose 12,000 years ago, retreating glaciers sculpted the dramatic landscapes seen today. The Northern and Southern Patagonian Ice Fields remain as remnants of this ancient ice mass, covering over 5,400 square miles—making them the world’s third-largest frozen expanse. Towering blue glaciers still calve into fjords, sending icebergs drifting into the waterways.

The Chilean Fjords wind through hundreds of passages and channels, formed over 2.5 million years by retreating glaciers. These pristine waters are home to abundant wildlife, including colonies of Magellanic penguins, elephant seals basking on the shores, and pods of migrating humpback whales and orcas.

Established as a penal colony in 1848, Punta Arenas later became a hub for maritime trade before the opening of the Panama Canal. Its strategic location made it a key gateway for explorers and settlers seeking fortune in gold mining and sheep farming. Today, the city retains its historical charm while serving as an important link to Patagonia and Antarctica.

Straddling the border between Chile and Argentina, the Southern Patagonian Ice Field extends for over 200 miles along the Andes Mountains. Nearly 80% of South America’s glaciers are found in Chile, covering approximately 7,700 square miles. These colossal ice masses serve as vital freshwater reserves, sustaining Patagonia’s diverse ecosystems. Towering walls of ice regularly calve into fjords, creating breathtaking scenes of floating icebergs.

Carved into the stunning landscape of Alberto de Agostini National Park, Garibaldi Fjord is a pristine natural wonder. This UNESCO Biosphere Reserve is home to an abundance of wildlife, from bobbing sea lions to floating icebergs fed by the retreating Garibaldi Glacier. The fjord’s towering valley walls, draped in ice, frame a landscape that feels untouched by time, offering an awe-inspiring glimpse into Chile’s remote wilderness.

Marking the convergence of the Atlantic and Pacific Oceans, Cape Horn is a legendary landmark at the southernmost tip of the Americas. Named after the Dutch city of Hoorn, this rugged and remote island is part of the Hermite Islands archipelago. A stark, treeless landscape, it features an imposing volcanic rock formation and a historic lighthouse that has guided sailors through treacherous waters since 1991.

Known as the southernmost city in the world, Ushuaia is set against a dramatic backdrop where the Beagle Channel meets the towering Andes. This remote outpost has long served as a departure point for Antarctic expeditions. Ushuaia is also the gateway to Tierra del Fuego, or "Land of Fire," named by early Spanish explorers who observed the constant fires burned by the indigenous Yámana people. This unspoiled region comprises vast islands shared by Chile and Argentina, offering untamed landscapes and unique wildlife.

Follow the path of the Mid-Atlantic Ridge, an underwater mountain range stretching longer than the Rockies, Himalayas, and Andes combined. The ridge divides the Atlantic Ocean into two sections, running north to south. Spend your time at sea enjoying the tranquil atmosphere of the Living Room lounge, where you can relax with a coffee or sip a refreshing cocktail while admiring the endless horizon.

West Point Island is renowned for its spectacular coastal cliffs that plunge into the sea, creating some of the most breathtaking vistas in the Falklands. Founded as a sheep farm in 1879, the island remains privately owned by the descendants of Arthur Felton. It is also a designated Important Bird and Biodiversity Area, home to species such as the Falkland steamer duck, black-browed albatross, and both Magellanic and rockhopper penguins.

Port Stanley, the capital of the Falkland Islands, embodies a unique blend of British culture and rugged island charm. As a British Overseas Territory, the Falklands are home to more sheep than people, yet the islands boast extraordinary biodiversity. Five species of penguins, including king and gentoo penguins, inhabit these remote shores. Visitors can explore the town’s charming pubs and its historic Victorian stone church while taking in the stark beauty of the archipelago.

Navigate the legendary waters once explored by Captain James Cook, who claimed South Georgia for Britain in 1775. While at sea, immerse yourself in the Scandinavian-inspired spa, where you can unwind in the sauna, refresh in the Snow Grotto, or relax in the soothing waters of the Thermal Pool. This rejuvenating experience is the perfect way to prepare for the adventure ahead.

South Georgia’s wild and rugged beauty has captivated explorers for centuries. First charted by Captain James Cook in 1775, this remote island played a pivotal role in Sir Ernest Shackleton’s legendary Antarctic expedition. Shackleton first sailed these waters in 1916 and later returned in 1921 in an attempt to map Antarctica’s coastline. Despite its isolation, South Georgia is teeming with wildlife, including vast colonies of king penguins, albatross, elephant seals, and fur seals.

Follow in the wake of Sir Ernest Shackleton, whose ill-fated ship Endurance sank in Antarctic waters in 1915. As you sail, indulge in a range of international cuisine on board. Choose from a variety of flavors at the World Café, enjoy al fresco dining on the Aquavit Terrace, or savor regional specialties in The Restaurant.

Antarctica is a realm of breathtaking beauty, where immense glaciers tower over icy waters and vast, untouched landscapes stretch as far as the eye can see. This frozen continent has inspired adventurers for centuries, with towering icebergs and snow-covered peaks creating a scene of unparalleled majesty. Amid this pristine wilderness, marine life thrives—fur seals rest on floating ice sheets, while humpback, fin, and blue whales glide through nutrient-rich waters, occasionally greeting passing expedition ships.

Named after the 16th-century English explorer Sir Francis Drake, the Drake Passage is a vast stretch of open water linking the Atlantic and Pacific Oceans. It is one of the most infamous seaways in the world, known for its unpredictable conditions. While crossing these historic waters, unwind in the Explorers’ Lounge, where panoramic windows offer stunning views of the ocean. Whether sharing a cocktail with friends or reading a book, this is a moment to reflect on the incredible journey.

Disembark in Ushuaia and transfer to the airport for your charter flight to Buenos Aires. As your journey comes to an end, bid farewell to fellow travelers and head home with memories of an unforgettable expedition.