Embark on a once-in-a-lifetime journey to Earth's last great wilderness with our Discover Antarctica expedition. This awe-inspiring adventure transports you to a world of towering glaciers, colossal icebergs, and wildlife that thrives in the planet's most pristine ecosystem. Cruise through the legendary Drake Passage aboard a state-of-the-art expedition vessel, then spend days exploring the Antarctic Peninsula's frozen wonders—kayak among glittering ice formations, witness playful penguin colonies, and marvel at breaching whales in crystal-clear waters.
From Argentina Roundtrip; 13 days
Highlights:
- Embark on a sleek yacht-like ship, enjoying world-class service and fine onboard dining.
- Discover Buenos Aires’ heritage with a private guide, from architecture to tango culture.
- Explore Antarctica’s icy shores by zodiac, spotting penguins, seals, and whales up close.
- Enjoy guided shore excursions and thrilling glacier hikes with polar experts on hand.
Day 1: Buenos Aires
Savor true Argentinian delights with a tango performance and dinner at El Querandi. Meet your professional driver and private tour guide and prepare for a spectacular evening. Located in the historic city center of San Telmo, El Querandi invites you to travel through the history of tango and marvel at its rhythmic chords and sensuality of dance. Enjoy an exquisite a la carte dinner, with more than twenty regional dishes that precede the tango show. Watch as musicians, dancers and singers pay homage to the essence of Buenos Aires nightlife. Once the show concludes, your private driver transfers you back to your accommodation.
Accommodation: Sofitel Buenos Aires Recoleta
Day 2: Buenos Aires
Buenos Aires is where it all happens, and we want you to immerse yourself in its beauty, history, and sheer radiance. Enjoy a private guided, half-day panoramic tour, discovering the rich parks and open spaces of the Northern Neighborhood and the eye-catching buildings and grounds of Palermo and Recoleta, in the comfort of a private vehicle. After being picked up from your hotel, you'll be driven to the Obelisk; a distinct symbol of the city. After that, you will visit different squares such as Plaza de Mayo, Plaza San Martín, Plaza del Congreso and some of the main avenues such as Corrientes, de Mayo, and 9 de Julio. Enjoy views in the historical neighborhoods of La Boca, San Telmo, Montserrat and the elegant neighborhoods of Palermo, Recoleta, and the modern Puerto Madero. Breathe in the fresh air as you pass through parks such as Lezama, Tres de Febrero and the Ecological Reserve. En route you will also get to visit financial and commercial areas and Soccer Stadiums. At the end of your tour you will be dropped back at your hotel.
Accommodation: Sofitel Buenos Aires Recoleta
Day 3: Buenos Aires
Embark on an exploration of magnificent San Telmo and La Boca, two of Buenos Aires' most beloved neighborhoods. San Telmo is without question one of the trendiest quarters of the city thanks to its cool, bohemian atmosphere and famed antique shops. Plaza Dorrego is the place to be on Sundays to find anything from antiques, memorabilia, second-hand clothes to dusty magazines during its traditional Antiques Fair. Next, set out to experience La Boca, arguably one of the city's most authentic neighborhoods. La Boca's history was largely shaped by immigrants who established themselves within this gritty port-side barrio. A working-class district, La Boca has jealously guarded its identity, of which soccer and tango are major ingredients. What will strike you immediately is the peculiar architecture, especially along Caminito Street, which in 1959 was declared an outdoor museum. It is the work of one of Argentina’s most famous painters and neighborhood philanthropists, Quinquela Martín. He gathered neighbors to paint the houses, made out of tin and scrap metal, in bright colors, emulating the early immigrants. The most recognizable icon, though, is La Bombonera (the Chocolate Box), right in the heart of the area and home of the Boca Juniors, the country’s largest soccer club.
This afternoon, you'll meet with a representative of Atlas Ocean Voyages to check-in and receive more information prior to your voyage. Prepare for an adventure of a lifetime!
Accommodation: Atlas Ocean Voyages Pre-Cruise Hotel
Day 4: Buenos Aires to Ushuaia to Antarctic Cruise
Board a charter jet for a flight to Ushuaia. Approximate travel time is three and a half hours.
Join a shared transfer from the airport to your awaiting ship at port.
Welcome aboard!
Take some time to get settled into your stateroom, and to explore the length of your cruise vessel. This evening, join your fellow cruise mates at a Welcome Reception, as your cruise adventure begins.
Atlas Ocean Voyages ships feature superb onboard facilities for your polar exploration. Your discoveries ashore will only be matched by your culinary adventures on board. Taking inspiration from a wide array of global cuisines, the ever-changing menu promises to surprise you every evening. Enjoy afternoon tea and high tea at The Dome Observation Lounge, where delightful assortments of pastries, sandwiches, and teas are complemented by 270-degree views of the wonderful scenery surrounding the yacht. Stop for a quick midday nibble at the bistro, choosing from a curated selection of pastries, sandwiches, and specialty coffees. Share your day’s adventures with fellow explorers and connect over iconic cocktails at the magnificent Atlas Lounge. Treat yourself to expert pampering at the luxurious spa. Sink into total relaxation with a massage, or simply sit and unwind in the heat of the sauna. Keep your wellness goals on track with a stop at the onboard fitness studio, offering state-of-the-art exercise equipment, or take a lap at the jogging track on the top deck while marveling at breathtaking views of the horizon. Take it slow with a dip in the pool or at one of the two hot tubs and catch the rays of the sun with an easy morning or afternoon on the sun deck.
Your polar expedition delivers a number of exclusive inclusions for a memorable cruise experience. Enjoy charter jet service in-destination, group transfers to and from your ship, destination briefings, shore landings led by expert field guides, sightseeing safaris by Zodiac, a polar plunge, and a take-home Atlas Ocean Voyages parka and vest. All on-board meals are included, with your choice of diverse cuisine from an array of restaurants with ever-changing menus, along with unlimited beverages including craft beers, fine wines, spirits, specialty coffees and more. A 24-hour bar service with specialty snacks is also provided at the open bars and lounges. Enjoy afternoon high tea or a glass of champagne paired with gourmet canapes during meet and greet events. For those wishing a more private experience, in-room dining is also provided and butler service for your convenience. Additional features include inspiring and enriching lectures onboard by qualified experts, limited wi-fi, in-room mini bar stocked with your preferences, and a complimentary welcome sparkling wine. For your convenience, onboard gratuities are included.
Accommodation: World Traveller
Day 5-6: Drake Passage to Antarctic Cruise
Navigating the intrepid Drake Passage is made for the boldest of explorers. Petrels and albatrosses that glide across the skies guide the way. To witness its awesome power makes the journey to Antarctica all the more triumphant.
The Drake Passage leads you from the southernmost region of the Americas to the Antarctic Peninsula, the northern point of The White Continent. This waterway where cold southern ocean meets warm northern sea water creates powerful currents that test your mettle.
But the rewards for the journeyer that braves these waters do not compare. The meeting of warm and cold waters creates an environment that attracts extraordinary wildlife. Drake Passage offers the chance to witness the likes of humpback whales and hourglass dolphins that accompany the voyage. The soundtrack of the 48-hour journey through the Drake Passage includes the crash of the ocean against the ship and the cry of petrels, skuas, and gulls.
While the waterway is famous for its challenging navigation, you may still get another side of the Drake Passage. On some occasions, the channel is calm and tranquil, making for a pleasant voyage into Antarctica. That’s one of the more splendid characteristics of the Drake Passage - you never know what you will get.
As you emerge from the Drake Passage, the mammoth, icy peaks of the South Shetland Islands loom ahead, greeting you on your victorious landing. You have completed the rite of passage to explore the seventh continent.
Accommodation: World Traveller
Day 7: South Shetland Islands to Antarctic Cruise
Part of the greater Antarctica region, the South Shetland Islands contain plenty of wildlife, scenic landscapes, hiking opportunities and magnificent viewpoints that inspire a sense of discovering another world. A possible landing on Elephant Island, named for the shape of its cliffside and the elephant seals that call it home, puts you on the same path as the famous Shackleton Expedition. Deception Island, another possible landing and named for its very nature, is in fact a volcanic caldera where you can find heated springs amid the striking black sands. Other stops could include Half Moon Island, Yankee Harbor, Point Wild and Barrientos Island, where you can find plenty of Gentoo penguin rookeries.
CAPTAIN’S CHOICE — Your Captain will expertly navigate ice floes, icebergs and changing sea and weather conditions to ensure you experience the most from your expedition. Each day is a new adventure filled with a spontaneous sense of exploration as your Captain works with our expedition team to determine possible shore landings and Zodiac safaris. All itinerary routes serve as examples and are subject to change based on current conditions, prioritizing the safety and optimal expedition experience for all guests.
Accommodation: World Traveller
Day 8-10: Antarctic Peninsula to Antarctic Cruise
Nicknamed The White Continent for its vast expanse of icebergs, snow and glaciers, Antarctica is often the final frontier for experienced explorers to conquer. As you navigate Antarctic waters, you may set foot on sites like Beak Island, Brown Bluff, Cierva Cove, Hidden Bay and many more. Each landing throughout the continent offers its own unique landscape, from expansive tundra to rugged mountain peaks, all beckoning you to follow the paths that few explorers have trekked before.
CAPTAIN’S CHOICE — Your Captain will expertly navigate ice floes, icebergs and changing sea and weather conditions to ensure you experience the most from your expedition. Each day is a new adventure filled with a spontaneous sense of exploration as your Captain works with our expedition team to determine possible shore landings and Zodiac safaris. All itinerary routes serve as examples and are subject to change based on current conditions, prioritizing the safety and optimal expedition experience for all guests.
Accommodation: World Traveller
Day 11-12: Drake Passage to Antarctic Cruise
Navigating the intrepid Drake Passage is made for the boldest of explorers. Petrels and albatrosses that glide across the skies guide the way. To witness its awesome power makes the journey to Antarctica all the more triumphant.
The Drake Passage leads you from the southernmost region of the Americas to the Antarctic Peninsula, the northern point of The White Continent. This waterway where cold southern ocean meets warm northern sea water creates powerful currents that test your mettle.
But the rewards for the journeyer that braves these waters do not compare. The meeting of warm and cold waters creates an environment that attracts extraordinary wildlife. Drake Passage offers the chance to witness the likes of humpback whales and hourglass dolphins that accompany the voyage. The soundtrack of the 48-hour journey through the Drake Passage includes the crash of the ocean against the ship and the cry of petrels, skuas, and gulls.
While the waterway is famous for its challenging navigation, you may still get another side of the Drake Passage. On some occasions, the channel is calm and tranquil, making for a pleasant voyage into Antarctica. That’s one of the more splendid characteristics of the Drake Passage - you never know what you will get.
As you emerge from the Drake Passage, the mammoth, icy peaks of the South Shetland Islands loom ahead, greeting you on your victorious landing. You have completed the rite of passage to explore the seventh continent.
Accommodation: World Traveller
Day 13: Ushuaia to Buenos Aires
Bid farewell to the crew as your voyage comes to a close, and you disembark from your cruise vessel this morning.
Join a shared transfer from the port to for the airport.
Board a charter jet for a flight to Buenos Aires. Approximate travel time is three and a half hours.
Enjoy a private transfer between Buenos Aires International and Domestic airports (or vice versa) with a professional driver and English-speaking guide.
Please contact our Travel Advisors for details.
Tour Code: KT
