Explorers’ Route
Itinerary
Days 1
Ushuaia, Tierra del Fuego
This extended adventure begins at the tip of South America, in Ushuaia, Argentina,. Upon arrival proceed to our host hotel for overnight accommodation.
Days 2
Embarkation Day
This morning is free, however why not take advantage of our optional half-day tour to the nearby National Park. This is a delightful way to see the area and we’ll also include a traditional Argentine BBQ lunch. After the tour return to the hotel and transfer to the quay to join other adventurers on deck as you sail during the late afternoon through the scenic Beagle Channel.
Days 3-5
History, wildlife and Darwin, too
En route to the Falkland Islands, you learn about Charles Darwin, who visited the islands in 1833. Join your fellow adventurers for an in-depth education program introducing the flora and fauna that you can expect to encounter while visiting the archipelago. Properly prepared, you cruise safely from the ship to shore in a Zodiac to stroll the streets of Stanley or wander through the nesting grounds of the Black-browed Albatross. Sip a leisurely cup of tea with local residents, before you depart for South Georgia.
Days 6-11
A toast to “iron men in wooden ships”
You’ll see various pelagic birds in their open-sea habitat as we cross the Scotia Sea eastwards. On landing in Grytviken, South Georgia, history is on our minds. South Georgia is synonymous with Sir Ernest Shackleton’s rescue of the crew of Endurance. In 1904, Grytviken was established as a whaling station. Your exploration includes a visit to the chapel and museum that depicts how life was lived in this sheltered cove until it was abandoned in 1966. The largest King Penguin colony in the world is on the shore of St. Andrew’s Bay. Have your camera ready, it is an unforgettable sight. Later, after supper, share your shots with new friends in the lounge, library or bar.
Days 12-17
Antarctica, scenery, history and wildlife!
As the ship steams south and west, watch for tabular icebergs. When you arrive in the South Shetland Islands, the Expedition Team will attempt an average of two landings a day, subject to permissions, weather, wind and ice conditions, of course. It is here that you may visit an active research station, where scientists track the life cycle of birds and icebergs. You’ll walk with penguins at a colony, and cruise rocky coastlines where birds rest after a day on the wing.
“This land feels like a fairytale”
Amundsen’s quote captures the majesty of Antarctica perfectly. It is vast, pristine and glorious. Massive glaciers, many covering an area equal to that of a small city, are reflected in still, black water. The sheer scale is humbling. Setting foot on the Peninsula, remember the brave and determined explorers that have preceded you - Ross, Scott, Shackleton and Amundsen. They too were captivated by the antics of penguins, curiosity of seals and the grace of whales swimming.
Days 18-20
Behind every name, a story - En route to ushuaia
Crossing the legendary Drake Passage is a remarkable experience in itself, as our comfortable ship is accompanied most of the way by an impressive array of seabirds, including wandering albatross and giant Cape petrels. You also have a good chance to spot whales and dolphins from the deck. The Expedition Team will recap your adventures and recall the explorers in whose wake you have sailed. You will have gazed at the same shorelines and marvelled at the same stars. As they were, you will be transformed. After docking in Ushuaia, disembark after breakfast and transfer into town for further exploring or travel straight on to the airport for onward flights.
