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Emblematic Antarctica

Ushuaia - Ushuaia

Antarctica
Nov 30 2025 - Dec 03 2025
10 Nights
200 Guests

Starting from per person

£9,470

Select cruise date

The Antarctic Peninsula is a pristine and remote area that ignites wanderlust in many travellers. It's home to a diverse array of wildlife that you will experience during your 11-day expedition cruise. You'll navigate the Drake Passage while Wandering Albatrosses guide you to the Antarctic shores.

The landscape on the Antarctic Peninsula is dominated by ice in various forms: vast glaciers calving into the sea, tabular icebergs floating serenely in the Southern Ocean, and sea ice twinkling in the polar sunlight. As you approach the continent, you'll spot penguins like Gentoo, Adélie, and chinstrap, alongside leopard, crabeater, and Weddell seals frolicking on the ice. Naturalists aboard the ship will explain the mysteries of this unparalleled ecosystem.

Whether you're exploring the land in a zodiac dinghy or paddling through the icy waters in a kayak, the stunning polar scenery enveloped in ethereal light offers an awe-inspiring backdrop to your adventure.

Cruise Highlights

Cruise Highlights

  • Embark on an exciting expedition cruise to explore the Antarctic Peninsula.
  • Enjoy thrilling activities such as Zodiac outings, kayaking, hiking, educational visits, and engaging lectures.
  • Witness stunning views of the icebergs, glaciers, and snow-capped peaks, along with the impressive wildlife that includes whales, penguins, seals, and seabirds.
  • Small Group Expedition on a 5-star Luxury ship
  • Your cruise package includes an overnight stay in Buenos Aires before embarking and round-trip flights to and from Ushuaia.

Itinerary

Itinerary

Embark on an Epic Journey To Discover Antarctic Peninsula

Ushuaia harbour in Argentina
Day 1

Ushuaia

Ushuaia, the capital of Argentina's Tierra del Fuego province, is widely recognized as the starting point for voyages to Antarctica and the South Pole. The locals affectionately refer to it as "El fin del mundo," or the end of the world. This unique city is nestled within mountains, and the nearby fertile plains serve as a sanctuary for diverse wildlife. Positioned where the Andes meet the sea, Ushuaia is one of the most fascinating destinations in the world, and its name alone evokes images of adventure to remote and elusive locations.

Embarkation from 16:00 to 17:00

Departure at 18:00

Albatross in flight over the Drake Passage
Days 2-3

Crossing The Drake Passage

As you embark on your journey through the Drake Passage, take some time to familiarise yourself with the ship and learn more about Antarctica. The Expedition Leader will explain the IAATO guidelines everyone must follow while landing in the area and provide information about the zodiac excursions.

Attend lectures on the region's history and wildlife to expand your understanding of this captivating area, where each cruise offers a unique adventure. You can join the naturalist guides on the ship's outer decks to observe albatrosses, cape petrels, and other seabirds gliding above the Drake Passage.

Guests cruising in Zodiac in Antarctica with a whale
Days 4-8

Exploring The Antarctic Peninsula

Experience the enchanting allure of the Antarctic Peninsula, a captivating destination that continues to fascinate visitors worldwide. During your journey through this icy wonderland, you'll be surrounded by a magical world painted in subtle blues and whites, sharing space with an extraordinary array of wildlife. The Antarctic Peninsula is home to several fascinating species, including penguins, humpback whales, various seal species, giant petrels, elephant seals, fur seals, Antarctic minke whales, and orcas. Each site visit offers a unique opportunity to encounter these creatures in their natural habitat.

Every day of your voyage is a new adventure, with activities tailored to the ever-changing ice conditions. The captain and the expedition leader will guide you on Zodiac excursions or landings, unveiling the vast treasures of the Peninsula. Explore glaciers, ice floes, tabletop icebergs, and mountain peaks that dramatically descend into the sea. Discover volcanic beaches, research stations, enchanting bays, and remnants of the whaling era in a serene, almost otherworldly setting. No two days are the same, ensuring a voyage filled with excitement and discovery.

As you navigate these waters, you'll be following in the footsteps of pioneering Antarctic explorers, such as Jean-Baptiste Charcot, Adrien de Gerlache, and Sir Ernest Shackleton, who ventured into these remote, unpopulated lands starting in the 19th century.

sunset over the Drake Passage Antarctica
Days 9-10

Crossing The Drake Passage

The Drake Passage is a body of water that evokes both awe and apprehension among tourists, scientists, and seasoned sailors. It is located in the latitude of the notorious Furious Fifties winds and serves as the quickest maritime link between Antarctica and South America. Experienced sailors often say that one must truly earn their passage to the White Continent due to the challenging conditions.

The Antarctic Convergence is the area where cold southern currents meet the warmer waters from the equator, creating a hotspot for a diverse range of marine life. Don't forget to look up and enjoy the sight of albatrosses and Cape petrels gracefully riding the gusts around your ship.

Ushuaia harbour in Argentina
Day 11

Ushuaia

Today, we have returned to Ushuaia, the capital of Argentina's Tierra del Fuego province. This city is famous for being the main point of departure for expeditions to Antarctica and the South Pole. Its residents affectionately call it "El fin del Mundo" or "the end of the world", as it is nestled between mountains and fertile plains that provide a sanctuary for diverse wildlife. Ushuaia is located where the Andes Mountains meet the sea, making it one of the most fascinating destinations on the planet.

 

Disembarkation 02/01/2025 at 08:00

Activities

Activities

Zodiac Cruising

PONANT Antarctica Zodiacs

Join us on daily adventures with our fleet of Zodiacs, expertly piloted by polar guides who will take you to the heart of stunning natural landscapes and wildlife. Enjoy the excitement of shore landings on secluded beaches and cruises through icy waters to explore intriguing sites. Every day promises new adventures and unforgettable encounters with the wild while experiencing the comfort and thrill of our Zodiacs.

Hiking

Hiking Ponant antarctica

Amid our shore landings, you'll have the chance to join our seasoned naturalist guides for hiking expeditions of varying difficulty levels based on the ecological resilience of the unique biome. These excursions may range from leisurely coastal strolls to extended treks lasting several hours, taking you to breathtaking viewpoints and historic sites. You'll seize the moment, adapting your journey to the prevailing weather and ice conditions.

Kayak Discovery*

Ponant kayaks Antarctica

Embark on a thrilling sea kayaking adventure that lasts for two hours and takes you through breathtaking polar landscapes. You'll paddle in a tandem kayak alongside a partner, guided by a qualified polar navigation expert. All necessary equipment will be provided, so you don't have to worry about a thing. As you glide through the icy waters, you'll be surrounded by stunning vistas that are sure to leave an indelible mark on your memory. This is a seamless and exciting way to experience the wonders of the natural world.

*Please note that limited spots are available for this exclusive experience and there is an additional charge. Please enquire at time of reservation. 

Your Ship

Your Ship

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Starting from per person

£9,470

Select cruise date

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Choose Your Cabin

Choose Your Cabin

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What's Included

Included

  • 1-night accommodation in a 5* hotel the night before embarkation.
  • Return flight Buenos Aires/Ushuaia/Buenos Aires, in economy class.
  • Luxury 5* expedition cruise as per the itinerary.
  • All listed activities are included but subject to availability. Please enquire about activities at the time of booking.
  • All-inclusive experience with dining and drinks included.
  • Zodiac excursions.
  • An expedition parka (adult sizes only)
  • Meals and beverage package.

Optional Extras

  • Flights to and from Buenos Aires. Our Travel Experience Team is happy to assist you with this.
  • Spa treatments unless they are included in your cabin choice.
  • Personal expenses.
  • Any other service not mentioned in the programme.

Important Information

  • This expedition involves travelling to lovely remote places with limited medical facilities. We ask you to be healthy and fit to participate. If you have a severe medical condition or have recently undergone surgery, please get in touch with us before making a reservation. Our Travel Experience Team will be happy to assist you with any questions.
  • Whilst our expeditions do not require exceptional fitness, you must be mobile enough to climb in and out of a Zodiac and undertake short walks.
  • Ports of call, visited sites, outings and landings will depend on weather conditions, ice position, winds and the state of the sea. These can force a change of plans at any time. The Captain and the Expedition Leader may cancel or stop any activity or modify the itinerary. The final itinerary will be confirmed by the Captain, who will consider the touristic quality of the sites and, above all, the safety of the passengers. His decision will be based on advice from experts and authorities.
  • You must take out comprehensive travel insurance, which includes medical evacuation and cancellation at the time of booking. To learn more, please see our guide to Travel Insurance For Expedition Cruises.
  • You must hold a passport with a minimum of 6 months validity beyond completing your trip. Please check to see if you require a visa to enter the countries of embarkation and disembarkation. If you have any questions, our Travel Experience Team is always on hand to answer them.
  • Please note that an EKG (electrocardiogram) by your general practitioner will be required for a polar plunge.
  • Due to regulations in the Arctic, it is unfortunately impossible to use drones on this expedition at any time.
  • To guarantee the safety and well-being of our guests, certain items are strictly prohibited on board.
  • The minimum age for children to participate in this expedition is 6.

If you have any questions, please don’t hesitate to ask our Travel Experience Team.

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