Classic Antarctica | Ushuaia Expedition Ship

Classic Antarctica

Itinerary for a 10 day journey from Ushuaia to Antarctica. The journey begins in Ushuaia, with a sailing trip along the Beagle Channel. Next is the Drake Passage - a challenging passage renowned for the rich marine life. The South Shetland Islands, the Antarctic Peninsula and its diverse species of seals and penguins are explored next. The expedition concludes with the journey back to Ushuaia through the Drake Passage, which offers the opportunity for whale and seabird sightings, as well as time for reflection.

Day by day

Day 1: Depart from Ushuaia

Late afternoon, meet your expedition team and lecturer. After you have settled into your cabins, we sail along the Beagle Channel and picturesque Mackinlay Pass.

Day 2 & 3: Crossing the Drake Passage

Drake Passage is named for Sir Francis Drake, who first explored the waters in 1578. It marks a convergence between cold Antarctic water and warmer ocean waters. This results in a massive upwelling of nutrient-rich water that supports biodiversity. Drake Passage also marks the limit of many Antarctic seabirds.

Antarpply Expeditions' lecturers will be on deck to help you identify all the seabirds, including albatrosses. USHUAIA has a policy of open bridges, which allows our passengers to get navigational and whale-watching tips from the officers. A full program of lectures will be offered.

Now we have reached the South Shetland Islands. The group of twenty islands and islets were discovered by Captain in February 1819. William Smith was the captain of Williams Brig. Our naturalists will accompany you on Day 3 as you experience your first encounter with penguins or sea seals.

Day 4 to 7: Exploring the Antarctic Peninsula and the South Shetland Islands

Day 8 & 9: At Sea crossing the Drake Passage, northbound

Day 10: Arrival in Ushuaia

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Highlights

Discovering the majestic Antarctic Peninsula, teeming with abundant wildlife, including penguins, seals, and whales, while navigating through narrow channels and stunning glaciers.

Encounter diverse Antarctic wildlife, from playful penguins to majestic seals, on the South Shetland Islands and beyond.

Explore historic landmarks, such as Paradise Bay and Paulet Island, offering insights into the Antarctic Peninsula's exploration legacy.

Engage in daily lectures by Antarpply Expeditions’ staff, covering navigation, wildlife identification, and the Antarctic ecosystem.

Embrace a flexible itinerary to optimize weather and wildlife opportunities, concluding with reflection during the return crossing of the Drake Passage.

Activities

Sea Kayaking

Under full instruction from your sea kayaking guide, experience true tranquillity as you paddle through clinking ice floes and realise the enormity of the surrounding scenery. Look out for breaching whales, lounging seals and penguins zipping alongside your kayak. Some experience is required.

Ice Camping

Camp out on the ice and experience the silence which blankets the continent by night. This is your chance to completely connect with this ethereal ice world – wrap up warm and embrace the Antarctic elements.

Snowshoeing

Get a spring in your step when you slip on a pair of snowshoes in Antarctica. Enabling you to easily scale gentle slopes, this unique activity allows you to access hard to reach places and seek out the most impressive views.

Photography

Learn to capture wildlife and landscape shots in a small group photography program, including critiquing sessions and editing classes. Plus, Explorer Boat excursions with a dedicated photography expert on landings.

Explorer Boats

Achieve the best views and photographs from a forward facing Explorer Boats. They allow you to sit comfortably and securely while crackling through the ice-strewn waters. Look out for wildlife such as penguins, seals and whales as you cruise.

Yoga

It doesn’t get more serene than complimentary yoga classes to the tune of glacial scenery. Join the most unique exercise setting in the world after a day of exploration. Classes are regular but are dependent on weather conditions and swell.