Antarctic Wonders: Sail South, Fly North

Day 1 - Ushuaia

Ushuaia, Argentina: At a latitude of 55 degrees south, Ushuaia, pronounced 'oo-swy-ah,' lies closer to the South Pole than Argentina's northern border with Bolivia. The city serves as the capital and primary tourism hub of Tierra del Fuego, an island at the southernmost point of Argentina. Despite its stark natural beauty, Tierra del Fuego's historical charm lies more in its mythical past than strict reality. Indigenous peoples such as the Yámana, Haush, Selk'nam, and Alakaluf inhabited the island for 6,000 years. In 1902, eager to expand Patagonia for territorial claims, Argentina moved to establish an Ushuaian penal colony, leading to the permanent settlement of its southern territories. By 1947, when the prison closed, the population was around 3,000, mainly comprising former inmates and prison staff. Today, Ushuaia, which prides itself as the world's southernmost city, is a thriving hub, enhanced by tourism due to its unique geographic and historical allure. Visitors are invited to explore both its rugged terrain and vibrant local culture.

Day 2 - Ushuaia

Ushuaia, Argentina: The allure of Ushuaia at 55 degrees latitude south extends beyond its geographical claim as the southernmost city. Its rich history includes indigenous peoples whose way of life disappeared due to diseases and changes brought by settlers and authorities keen to assert territorial claims in Patagonia. Ushuaia transformed into a tourism dynamo, with its population swelling to 60,000, driven by rugged attractions and year-round activities like trekking, wildlife spotting, and skiing in the beautiful backdrop of the Andes and scenic canals. With nature as its guiding principle, Ushuaia impresses with both adventure and nature lovers, offering a blend of raw beauty and cultural history, symbolically rooted at the end of the Earth.

Day 3 - At Sea

At Sea: Spend the day at sea, sailing through the awe-inspiring Southern Ocean. This day is perfect for unwinding and enjoying the serene views as the ship journeys toward the breathtaking landscapes of Antarctica.

Day 4 - At Sea

At Sea: Another relaxing day at sea allows you to absorb the beautiful and ever-changing seascapes of the Antarctic region while you prepare for the exciting exploration of icy shores.

Day 5 - South Shetland Islands

South Shetland Islands, Antarctica: Approximately 770 kilometres south of Cape Horn, the South Shetland Islands are usually the first land visible when approaching Antarctica. Home to a diverse array of wildlife, the islands host colonies of Chinstrap, Adelie, Gentoo, and Macaroni Penguins which breed here. Due to its location as one of the warmest regions in Antarctica, the islands harbour diverse flora, and several seal species can be spotted on its shores. It remains a popular destination for scientists and tourists alike.

Day 6 - Antarctic Peninsula

Antarctic Peninsula, Antarctica: The Antarctic Peninsula's remote beauty enchants visitors with its stunning iceberg formations and glaciers. Known for wildlife encounters including marine mammals and iconic penguins, the Peninsula is rich in history with explorers, and scientists contributing to its human narrative. Its remote wilderness offers protected bays and vast unscaled mountains, promising unique and unforgettable wildlife experiences.

Day 7 - Antarctic Peninsula

Antarctic Peninsula, Antarctica: The Antarctic Peninsula beckons once more, as the chilling beauty of the landscape draws tourists seeking spectacular ice formations and thriving wildlife enclaves. Enjoy encounters with playful seals, massive whales, and various penguin colonies along with the dramatic grandeur of untouched, snow-draped mountains.

Day 8 - South Shetland Islands

South Shetland Islands, Antarctica: Revisiting the South Shetland Islands, where diverse penguin colonies and iconic seal species dominate the landscape. This paradise of icy wilderness remains a favoured region for ecological studies and tourist visits, owing to its proximity to South America and unique bio-diversity.

Day 9 - King George Island

King George Island, South Shetland Islands, Antarctica: King George Island, with its rugged and remote allure, features rocky beaches, Antarctica's first Orthodox Church, and a variety of intriguing wildlife. It is vibrant in its offering to explorers eager to experience the untamed Antarctic environment.

Day 10 - Punta Arenas

Punta Arenas, Chile: Punta Arenas serves as the gateway to the unique landscapes of Patagonian Chile, known for its striking, sparsely populated natural wilderness that includes impassable mountains and vast ice fields. The colourful provincial city offers a taste of regional history and culture, with points of interest such as the Plaza Muñoz Gamero and Torres del Paine National Park revealing breathtaking views and unique wildlife encounters. As a historical port settlement, Punta Arenas offers its own blend of natural wonder and local charm.