Ushuaia, Argentina

The snow-capped Martial Mountains behind a sprawling city of colorful buildings create the backdrop of Ushuaia, Argentina. A mix of historic buildings and rugged nature adventures make this city the perfect fit for the curious explorer who wants to go beyond the surface.

Don’t let the nickname the “End of the World” fool you. Although it lies on the southernmost tip of South America among the Tierra del Fuego archipelago, Ushuaia is far from the end of any adventure. Where the Andes meet the Beagle Channel lies a lively town ready and waiting to take you on the thrill ride of a lifetime.

The wild forest of Parque Yatana entices you to hike and explore its many trails as you find your way through Argentina’s lush nature and rich, indigenous culture. The forest’s name translates to “weave” in the native language of Yaghan. Here, you will find arts and crafts from the indigenous communities on display, giving you a sense of wonder.

For a greater challenge, take the trail that leads from downtown to Martial Glacier. The scene before your eyes gives way from green grass to rocky, black peaks spattered with white snow. The heart-pounding trek takes you through an unbelievable path that leads to a view of the Andes Mountains, Ushuaia, and the ocean.

Get a feel for local life in Ushuaia by taking a stroll along Avenida San Martin. Ushuaia’s main street provides the look and feel of a quaint town with shops, restaurants, and a church, indicating the bustle of everyday life that takes place there.

Drake Passage Navigation

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.

Drake Passage Navigation

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.

South Shetland Islands, Antarctica

The South Shetland Islands are completely silent and serene. Natural wonders like the black and white effect of Deception Island and the tops of massive glaciers sitting atop the water’s surface inspire awe and admiration even from the most veteran explorers. The stillness of the Shetland Islands evokes a sense of wilderness left to be discovered.

Along the rugged cliffs of Brown Bluff, the exposed portion of a glacial volcano, you can hike to a backdrop of expanses of ice and ocean. Dotted with Adélie penguins and leopard seals, the rocky shoreline provides a challenging path to trek the environment and explore among the wildlife. The whimsical birds waddle about, inviting you to give in to your inner child and play along.

Deception Island, the caldera of an active volcano, creates a black-and-white photo effect with black sands mixed with white snow at Neptune’s Bellows. A dip in the steaming hot springs of a black sand beach feel like an unreal experience amid the snow-capped mountains in the background. Walking among the remnants of a whaling station at Whaler’s Bay, a haunting air takes over the atmosphere.

The dark, rocky peaks of Elephant Island beckon you, daring you to come and explore its weathered coastline. The raucous sound of elephant seals as they fight for dominance reverberates and rings in your ears, invoking the call of the wild. The rusting and worn statue of the Endurance Memorial lives up to its name as it stands strong through the Antarctic weather.

Antarctic Peninsula – Captain’s Choice

From the remarkable blue coloring of glaciers to leopard seals napping on ice floes, the Antarctic Peninsula contains a multitude of wonders to behold. Cormorants soaring high above and orcas breaching the waters below surround you with a magnificent array of wildlife that calls to your inner explorer. You cannot help but get caught up in The White Continent’s rugged environment.

As your captain brings you to a safe harbor, you can launch a kayak to skim atop calm and clear waters among small pieces of floating ice. Gently cruise along the world’s largest icebergs and an extraordinary array of wildlife surrounded by spellbinding scenery. Its tranquility will surely captivate your imagination for years to come.

The permanent ice cap at Cuverville houses Port Lockroy, a flagship historic site for the main base building of Bransfield House. It’s also home to the famed Penguin Post Office, the southernmost post office in the world where you can make an unforgettable memory among the Gentoo penguins. A playful energy permeates the area as you join your new friends in their waddling.

At Neko Harbor, watch for humpback whales as their flukes come above the water and splash back down. Paradise Bay offers a glimpse into scientific research at Argentina’s Almirante Brown Antarctic Base or Chile’s González Videla Antarctic Base. Wherever you roam along the Antarctic Peninsula, the curious mind is satiated.

NOTE: CAPTAIN’S CHOICE CALLS
Captain’s Choice ports of call add to the sense of adventure and an element of surprise. Your ship’s master will sail around changing weather conditions as needed and take you to the best areas for wildlife viewing. Captain’s Choice ports include: Deception Island, Paulet Island, Brown Bluff, Neko Harbor, Paradise Bay, Cuverville Island and Goudier Island.

Cruising the Scotia Sea

Spend the day on the high seas pampering yourself at the spa or enjoying some time on deck. Mingle with your fellow explorers and swap stories of your exploits, making plans for new ones together once you get to shore.

Total Eclipse

Amid the backdrop of behemoth icebergs there is still a grander sight to behold. Witness a total eclipse of the sun as you sail deep through the pack ice. In a serendipitous twist, this rare event passes through Antarctica during the continent’s summer season when waters are most navigable.

Gold Harbour, S. Georgia & Sandwich Isl

South Georgia and the South Sandwich Islands offer rugged mountain views amidst the Atlantic Ocean, part of the “Scotia Arc.” Remnants of a whaling vessel repair station amid whale bones make up the haunting landscape of Grytviken. These lands contain the intrepid history of Antarctica and call out for you to explore and discover that it still holds more.

Along South Georgia’s southern coast lies King Haakon Bay, where the history of Shackleton’s marooned ship rescue comes to life among the gray stone shore and snowy peaks. Rocky cliffs stand tall amid the rugged landscape that challenges you to brave its trails and make your own history. Gazing up at these natural monoliths gives you a sense of reverence.

Among the South Sandwich Islands you will find King and Gentoo penguin rookeries with an abundance of the lovable birds to take pictures with. As you traverse the dirt trails leading to the islands’ wildlife, you get up close and personal with Antarctica’s nature, creating a sense of awe and wonder.

Gold Harbor, the true jewel of South Georgia, is home to a great deal of wildlife. As you step into these lands, penguins and elephant seals make a raucous greeting that you cannot help but smile over. Lying at the foot of the Salvesen Mountains, Gold Harbor’s cliff-lined coast creates a backdrop perfect for that one-of-a-kind photo op. A spreading of green tussock grass in between completes the scene.

South Georgia and Sandwich Islands

South Georgia and the South Sandwich Islands offer rugged mountain views amidst the Atlantic Ocean, part of the “Scotia Arc.” Remnants of a whaling vessel repair station amid whale bones make up the haunting landscape of Grytviken. These lands contain the intrepid history of Antarctica and call out for you to explore and discover that it still holds more.

Along South Georgia’s southern coast lies King Haakon Bay, where the history of Shackleton’s marooned ship rescue comes to life among the gray stone shore and snowy peaks. Rocky cliffs stand tall amid the rugged landscape that challenges you to brave its trails and make your own history. Gazing up at these natural monoliths gives you a sense of reverence.

Among the South Sandwich Islands you will find King and Gentoo penguin rookeries with an abundance of the lovable birds to take pictures with. As you traverse the dirt trails leading to the islands’ wildlife, you get up close and personal with Antarctica’s nature, creating a sense of awe and wonder.

Gold Harbor, the true jewel of South Georgia, is home to a great deal of wildlife. As you step into these lands, penguins and elephant seals make a raucous greeting that you cannot help but smile over. Lying at the foot of the Salvesen Mountains, Gold Harbor’s cliff-lined coast creates a backdrop perfect for that one-of-a-kind photo op. A spreading of green tussock grass in between completes the scene.

South Georgia and Sandwich Islands

South Georgia and the South Sandwich Islands offer rugged mountain views amidst the Atlantic Ocean, part of the “Scotia Arc.” Remnants of a whaling vessel repair station amid whale bones make up the haunting landscape of Grytviken. These lands contain the intrepid history of Antarctica and call out for you to explore and discover that it still holds more.

Along South Georgia’s southern coast lies King Haakon Bay, where the history of Shackleton’s marooned ship rescue comes to life among the gray stone shore and snowy peaks. Rocky cliffs stand tall amid the rugged landscape that challenges you to brave its trails and make your own history. Gazing up at these natural monoliths gives you a sense of reverence.

Among the South Sandwich Islands you will find King and Gentoo penguin rookeries with an abundance of the lovable birds to take pictures with. As you traverse the dirt trails leading to the islands’ wildlife, you get up close and personal with Antarctica’s nature, creating a sense of awe and wonder.

Gold Harbor, the true jewel of South Georgia, is home to a great deal of wildlife. As you step into these lands, penguins and elephant seals make a raucous greeting that you cannot help but smile over. Lying at the foot of the Salvesen Mountains, Gold Harbor’s cliff-lined coast creates a backdrop perfect for that one-of-a-kind photo op. A spreading of green tussock grass in between completes the scene.

Cruising the Scotia Sea

Spend the day on the high seas pampering yourself at the spa or enjoying some time on deck. Mingle with your fellow explorers and swap stories of your exploits, making plans for new ones together once you get to shore.

Drake Passage Navigation

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.

Ushuaia, Argentina

The snow-capped Martial Mountains behind a sprawling city of colorful buildings create the backdrop of Ushuaia, Argentina. A mix of historic buildings and rugged nature adventures make this city the perfect fit for the curious explorer who wants to go beyond the surface.

Don’t let the nickname the “End of the World” fool you. Although it lies on the southernmost tip of South America among the Tierra del Fuego archipelago, Ushuaia is far from the end of any adventure. Where the Andes meet the Beagle Channel lies a lively town ready and waiting to take you on the thrill ride of a lifetime.

The wild forest of Parque Yatana entices you to hike and explore its many trails as you find your way through Argentina’s lush nature and rich, indigenous culture. The forest’s name translates to “weave” in the native language of Yaghan. Here, you will find arts and crafts from the indigenous communities on display, giving you a sense of wonder.

For a greater challenge, take the trail that leads from downtown to Martial Glacier. The scene before your eyes gives way from green grass to rocky, black peaks spattered with white snow. The heart-pounding trek takes you through an unbelievable path that leads to a view of the Andes Mountains, Ushuaia, and the ocean.

Get a feel for local life in Ushuaia by taking a stroll along Avenida San Martin. Ushuaia’s main street provides the look and feel of a quaint town with shops, restaurants, and a church, indicating the bustle of everyday life that takes place there.