Crossing the Circle
Itinerary - Season 2008/09
Days 1-2
The end of civilization, the start of your adventure
Upon arrival into Ushuaia, proceed to our host hotel. If you're eager for exercise after your flight, we suggest a hike to the glacier that hangs above the town. We'll have a comfortable bed in our host hotel waiting for you, when you return. There'll be time for a brisk walk to a secluded bay, before returning to Ushuaia to board your Adventure Ship in the late afternoon.
Days 3-4
The Drake Passage: Furious Fifties, Screaming Sixties
To sailors the Drake is legendary for its high winds and rolling seas, but you may be lucky and get calm weather. Regardless of the conditions, we'll keep you busy on deck, on the Bridge, and in the presentation room. We prepare you for boarding Zodiacs, shore landings, and, if you dare, polar dips. En route to Antarctica, you may find that delicious three-course meals are made even more interesting by the occasional shout of “Whales off the port side!” Will you continue eating or dash on the deck with your camera?
Days 5-8
Hiking The Great White
The Expedition Team is planning as many as three landings a day during this voyage. That means that the bow of your Zodiac will be riding high, as the driver opens the throttle so we can give you as much time as possible ashore. Once on land, hike The Great White, or just sit on a rock and watch penguins invest considerable energy in survival. Wildlife in the Antarctic is refreshingly unafraid of humans, making each visit feel like a trip to another planet. The jagged polar terrain is magnificent, and awe-inspiring.
Every cross-country skier, kayaker, camper or mountain-climber seeks that one perfect moment that they will relive for the rest of their lives. Perhaps you'll find that moment in Antarctica. Optional adventures are available on a first come, first served basis. You could drift past an azure iceberg after a hard paddle. You could rapel down a rock face after an exhilarating climb. As there are no ski trails in Antarctica, you could leave tracks in a pristine wilderness. While camping you could be compelled to reach for the sky, because the stars appear to be only an arm's length away.
Days 9-10
The Antarctic Circle. A celebration is in order
As our expedition pushes further southward, the mountains grow higher, the glaciers more precipitous and the sense of remoteness even deeper. Crossing the Antarctic Circle is still a rare and impressive achievement. Celebrate with a well-earned glass of champagne. Raise your glass to the intrepid explorers who have gone before.
Days 11-12
Another fascinating coast, another incredible story
During the voyage, your Expedition Team will keep you informed about the fabled history of each area we visit. Every name on the map of the Antarctic has a story to tell. The Loubert Coast is no exception. The French names that appear are the legacy of Jean-Baptiste Charcot, physician, yachtsman, and explorer. He, like you, lived for adventure.
Days 13-15
Whales below, birds above, memories ahead
While crossing the Drake once again, stay up late with new friends as the lingering twilight of the southern summer fades. Trade memories that will last forever while you puzzle over the mystery that is Antarctica. Upon your return to Ushuaia, transfer to the airport for your outbound flight.
