Luxury Polar Circle Cruise

Puerto Williams to Puerto Williams

Antarctica
January - March
12 Nights

Choose Your Cruise Date

Guest hiking in snow on a luxury cruise to Antarctic Peninsula
Door To Door
Puerto Williams to Puerto Williams
Mar 4 - Mar 16 2026
11 Nights

Price from per person

£10,700
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Cruise Overview

Set sail on the Silver Endeavour for a mesmerising 12-day voyage to the heart of Antarctica. Unleash your inner explorer as you navigate the notorious waters of the Drake Passage, a rite of passage for every adventurer. Spend seven unforgettable days immersed in the Antarctic landscape, plus an additional day exploring the South Shetland Islands, each moment filled with the promise of discovery.ย 

This journey provides ample opportunities to witness the natural wonders of the region: from vast colonies of penguins engaging in their daily rituals to majestic orcas slicing through the icy waters and groups of seals lounging on the ice floes, every scene is a testament to the serene beauty of this untouched wilderness. The voyage concludes as you chart a course back towards Puerto Williams, marking the end of an intense yet profoundly memorable expedition.

This expedition departs from Santiago, Chile. For your total comfort and ease, flights between Santiago and Puerto Williams and pre-departure hotel stays are also included. This expedition is also available with a fully inclusive door-to-door service, including international flights, for your ultimate travel experience.

Luxury Polar Circle cruise map

Cruise Highlights

Cruise Highlights

  • Explore the Antarctic Peninsula and the South Shetland Islands with a team of polar experts on this extended length expedition with a full 7 days of exploring in Antarctica.
  • This expedition promises a chance to cross the Polar Circle.
  • 5-star luxury purpose-built expedition ship specially designed for the ultimate wildlife and nature exploration
  • Join in optional adventure activities such as hiking and kayaking.
  • Door to door travel options are available for your total comfort and peace of mind.
  • Enjoy daily outings and shore visits with our team of outstanding naturalist guides using the ship's Zodiacs.

Itinerary

Itinerary

Explore the wild nature of the far South on this cruise to The Falkland Islands, South Georgia and Antarctica commencing in Puerto Williams, Chile

Boats in Puerto William Chile
Day 1

Puerto Williams, Chile

Nestled on Navarino Island and caressed by the southern waters of the Beagle Channel, Puerto Williams holds the distinction of being Chile's gateway to the Antarctic. With a cosy population of around 2,500, it jests at its claim as the "world's southernmost city," a title also pursued by its larger neighbour, Ushuaia in Argentina, across the channel. The natural beauty surrounding Puerto Williams is nothing short of breathtaking. Mountains, untamed and often capped with snow, tower above the landscape, with the majestic "Dientes de Navarino" mountain range providing a stunning backdrop that competes with the renowned Torres del Paine to the north.

This area, once roamed by the Yaghan hunter-gatherers who braved the severe climate, is now a testament to resilience and change. Established in 1953 as a naval base, the city pays homage to the Anglo-Chilean maritime hero John Williams Wilson. It has evolved from its original role in safeguarding territorial claims and supporting Antarctic expeditions to a serene launchpad for scientific exploration and adventure tourism. Unlike the bustling streets of Ushuaia, Puerto Williams offers visitors a serene retreat. Its quaint atmosphere, with simple buildings and the comforting scent of wood smoke in the air, presents a tranquil haven at the world's edge, inviting those seeking peace amidst the grandeur of the far south.

Departure: 21:00

sunset over the Drake Passage Antarctica
Day 2

Drake Passage

Navigating through the legendary waters of the Drake Passage offers an unparalleled adventure that few get to witness. The journey begins at the edge of the Americas, where the wild landscapes set the stage for an extraordinary voyage. As you depart from Cape Horn, the sensation of leaving the 'End of the World' behind, with its remote cliffs disappearing into the backdrop, is both awe-inspiring and mystical. Embark on a journey that takes you beyond the known map's edges, venturing into Antarctica's frozen depths.

The passage is a narrative of romance and legendary sea voyages, leading you towards the icy embrace of the Antarctic. Upon arrival, you are greeted by towering icebergs standing like silent sentinels. As you navigate the frigid waters, you'll find yourself in the company of the continent's native inhabitants - penguins and whales glide through their icy domain undisturbed.

Albatross in flight over the Drake Passage
Day 3

Drake Passage

Your introduction to this least explored region is through the South Shetland Islands. Treading the paths once taken by history's most intrepid explorers, you'll have the chance to discover snow-clad islands such as Deception Island. While the Drake Passage might be a formidable challenge, remember that you're never truly alone. The journey is often graced by majestic albatrosses, humpback whales, and playful pods of hourglass dolphins accompanying you through the turbulent waves. The confluence of warm and cool ocean currents creates a haven for extraordinary marine life.

For those setting foot on this enchanting continent for the first time, it's an invitation to immerse yourself in a world unlike any other. Preparing for your voyage with informative resources can enhance this once-in-a-lifetime expedition into the heart of Antarctica's icy wilderness.

luxury expedition cruise ship in Antarctica
Day 4

Antarctic Sound, Antarctica

Arrival 05:30

Embarking on an expedition to Antarctica is akin to stepping into a realm of unparalleled wonder and isolation, where the stark, icy landscapes hold a breathtaking beauty few will ever witness. This journey takes you to the very essence of adventure, offering a rare glimpse into the vast, untouched wilderness at the earth's southern extremity. Your gateway to this frozen paradise is the Antarctic Sound, positioned at the northernmost point of the Antarctic Peninsula. This stretch of water, named after the pioneering vessel that navigated its icy waters in 1902, serves as your introduction to a world of dramatic icebergs and expansive ice shelves.

As you navigate through the Sound, you're greeted by awe-inspiring ice formations, each a testament to the raw power of nature. The experience brings you into close contact with the diverse avian population that inhabits this icy domain. Amid the silent majesty of towering icebergs, witness the lively antics of Gentoo penguins and the graceful flight of cape petrels. This journey not only offers a visual feast but an opportunity to immerse yourself in the thriving ecosystem of one of the planet's most extraordinary landscapes.

For those setting foot on this icy continent for the first time, capturing the essence of Antarctica's raw beauty becomes an irresistible challenge. Sharpening your photography skills becomes essential to do justice to the stark contrasts and grandeur of this unbridled wilderness.

3 Included Shore Excursions

  • Zodiac cruise with the Expedition Team
  • Hiking with the Expedition Team
  • Kayaking with the Expedition Team
Exploring Antarctica by Zodiac on a luxury cruise
Day 5

Antarctic Peninsula, Antarctica

The Antarctic Peninsula stretches its icy fingers northward, beckoning the bold and the curious to venture into its wild embrace. This vast extension of ice and snow from the heart of Antarctica reaches tantalisingly close to South America, a mere 620 miles from Tierra del Fuego, serving as a breathtaking introduction to the continent's untouched landscapes and majestic ice formations. A realm that remained unseen by human eyes until the early 19th century, setting foot on this peninsula is like stepping into a world of pure wonder and untouched beauty, where the thrill of the unknown awaits at every turn.

3 Included Shore Excursions

  • Zodiac cruise with the Expedition Team
  • Hiking with the Expedition Team
  • Kayaking with the Expedition Team
guests ashore in Antarctica
Day 6

Antarctic Peninsula, Antarctica

Dotted with scientific outposts, the Antarctic Peninsula stands on the front lines of exploration and research. It offers a unique glimpse into the efforts to understand this extraordinary ecosystem, its thriving wildlife, and the broader environmental changes impacting our planet. Here, you're invited to marvel at the awe-inspiring sight of cathedral-sized icebergs and the serene beauty of glaciers inching their way into the sea from places like Hope Bay.

3 Included Shore Excursions

  • Zodiac cruise with the Expedition Team
  • Hiking with the Expedition Team
  • Kayaking with the Expedition Team
silversea endeavour luxury cruise ship in Antarctica
Day 7

Antarctic Peninsula, Antarctica

The landscape is a dramatic mix of stark white peaks and wildlife's lively hustle and bustle, including thousands of Adelie penguins forming pairs and communities in this singular environment. Embarking on an adventure to the Antarctic Peninsula is an unforgettable journey into the heart of our planet's final frontier, where the spirit of discovery and the beauty of nature collide spectacularly.

3 Included Shore Excursions

  • Zodiac cruise with the Expedition Team
  • Hiking with the Expedition Team
  • Kayaking with the Expedition Team
Day 8

Antarctic Peninsula, Antarctica

The landscape is a dramatic mix of stark white peaks and wildlife's lively hustle and bustle, including thousands of Adelie penguins forming pairs and communities in this singular environment. Embarking on an adventure to the Antarctic Peninsula is an unforgettable journey into the heart of our planet's final frontier, where the spirit of discovery and the beauty of nature collide spectacularly.

3 Included Shore Excursions

  • Zodiac cruise with the Expedition Team
  • Hiking with the Expedition Team
  • Kayaking with the Expedition Team
penguins swimming in Antarctica
Day 9

Antarctic Peninsula, Antarctica

The landscape is a dramatic mix of stark white peaks and wildlife's lively hustle and bustle, including thousands of Adelie penguins forming pairs and communities in this singular environment. Embarking on an adventure to the Antarctic Peninsula is an unforgettable journey into the heart of our planet's final frontier, where the spirit of discovery and the beauty of nature collide spectacularly.

3 Included Shore Excursions

  • Zodiac cruise with the Expedition Team
  • Hiking with the Expedition Team
  • Kayaking with the Expedition Team
luxury cruise ship sailing in Antarctica
Day 10

South Shetland Islands, Antarctica

The Antarctic Peninsula, cloaked in ice, offers one of the most reachable points of the Antarctic mainland, just 480 miles from South America across the mythical Drake Passage. Near its northwestern tip, separated by the Bransfield Strait, are the South Shetland Islands, governed by the principles of the Antarctic Treaty, which puts a hold on territorial claims. These islands are a hub of international research, with several nations operating bases amidst the natural inhabitants: hefty elephant seals and bustling colonies of Gentoo, Chinstrap, and Adelie Penguins, making for a surprisingly lively environment.

King George Island is the most extensive and welcoming, housing the bulk of these research outposts, some of which are staffed by small, resilient teams throughout the year. Yet, despite the semblance of human activity, the islands are gateways to unparalleled adventure in one of the planet's most secluded spots. The imposing triple peaks of Mount Foster dominate the skyline, and the experience of sailing into Deception Island's awe-inspiring volcanic caldera is sure to quicken your pulse. Here, adventurers can trek across moon-like terrains and soak in the unexpectedly warm waters of Pendulum Cove, heated by geothermal activity.

1 Included Shore Excursion

  • Zodiac cruise with the Expedition Team

Departure: 18:30

enjoying a drink at sea
Day 11

Drake Passage

Sailing days offer the perfect chance to slow down, decompress, and indulge in activities you've longed to enjoy. Whether it's hitting the gym, pampering yourself at the spa, observing whales in their natural habitat, diving into your favourite book, or just basking in the sun to get that perfect tan, these tranquil days at sea provide a harmonious counterpoint to the adventure-filled excursions ashore.

Beagle Channel in Chile
Day 12

Puerto, Williams Chile

Arrival 22:00ย ย 

During the evening we sail back into Puerto Williams marking the end of an epic adventure.

Boats in Puerto William Chile
Day 13

Puerto, Williams Chile

In the morning we check out from the ship and embark on a charter flight to Santiago.

Activities

Activities

Zodiac Cruises

Exploring Antarctica by Zodiac on a luxury cruise

Zodiac cruises in Antarctica offer an unparalleled adventure into the heart of the world's most remote wilderness. These small, inflatable boats allow guests to navigate closer to the icebergs, glaciers, and wildlife than the main ship ever could, providing an intimate and thrilling perspective of Antarctica's pristine beauty. Guests are treated to up-close encounters with colonies of penguins, seals sunbathing on ice floes, and perhaps even the sight of a whale breaking the surface. Each Zodiac outing is guided by experienced expedition leaders who share insights into the region's unique ecosystem and the remarkable adaptations of its inhabitants. This blend of luxury and adventure ensures that every moment of the journey is imbued with awe and wonder, making Zodiac cruises a truly once-in-a-lifetime experience in the untouched landscapes of Antarctica.

Hiking

Hiking promises an immersive exploration of the continent's rugged and untouched landscapes. Beyond the comfort of the ship, adventurous souls can set foot on the Antarctic mainland or its surrounding islands, where guided hikes vary from gentle strolls along pebbled beaches teeming with wildlife to more challenging treks across snow-covered terrains and up glacial ridges. These excursions are designed to suit a range of fitness levels, ensuring that every traveller can experience the thrill of witnessing Antarctica's breathtaking scenery and diverse ecosystems up close. Led by knowledgeable expedition teams, these hikes not only provide spectacular views of the icy wilderness and its inhabitantsโ€”such as penguins, seals, and an array of seabirdsโ€”but also offer educational insights into the environmental significance and fragile beauty of the Earth's southernmost continent.

Kayaking

kayaking in Antarctica

Kayaking in the icy waters of Antarctica offers an extraordinary, serene, and exhilarating adventure. This activity allows guests to paddle through the calm, crystal-clear waters amidst icebergs of surreal shapes and sizes, offering an intimate and unparalleled perspective of the Antarctic landscape. Guided by expert kayakers, participants glide silently past snow-draped shorelines, getting up close to wildlife in their natural habitat, including curious seals, graceful whales, and bustling colonies of penguins. The tranquillity of kayaking in such a pristine environment, combined with the breathtaking beauty of towering glaciers and the Antarctic's stark, majestic wilderness, provides an unforgettable experience. It's a chance to connect with nature in one of the most remote and untouched places on earth, making kayaking a highlight for many adventurers.*

*Please note that limited spots are available for this experience.

If you are interested in participating in these adventurous activities please enquire about availability at the time of reservation. All activities are subject to availability and weather conditions.

Your Ship

Your Ship

Silver Endeavour Ship

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