Antarctica 10-Day Cruise

Discover the immense beauty of Antarctica on this 10-day cruise. Aboard the Ushuaia, we will traverse the Drake Passage, immersing ourselves in the spirit of early explorers. Expect to encounter penguins, seals, whales, glaciers, and countless surprises!

Details of the 10-Day Cruise

Day 1

We will gather at the designated time at the Commercial Port of Ushuaia for check-in. Once aboard the Ushuaia, the crew will greet you warmly as we embark on this Antarctic adventure.

After you settle into your cabin, we will navigate through the Beagle Channel via the Mackinlay Passage, bidding farewell to the picturesque Tierra del Fuego.

Days 2 & 3

The second and third days will see us crossing the Drake Passage, named after Sir Francis Drake, who navigated these waters in 1578.

This passage serves as a natural biological barrier, where frigid polar waters mix with the warmer currents, fostering rich nutrients that sustain a biodiverse ecosystem. It also delineates the northern limits for many Antarctic seabirds. Our guide will assist in identifying various bird species from the deck, including albatrosses that may follow our vessel.

Throughout these two days, you will gain insights into navigation, spot whales, and admire the evolving landscape. On the third day, the first sights of icebergs and snow-capped mountains will herald our arrival at the South Shetland Islands, charted by Captain William Smith in 1819. Weather permitting, we may make an initial landing to observe penguins and seals.

Days 4, 5, 6 & 7

During these days, we will explore the Antarctic Peninsula and the South Shetland Islands, renowned for their vibrant wildlife visible from the ship. We will navigate through the narrow passage leading to the flooded caldera of Deception Island.

As we pass near King George Island, we will observe colonies of gentoo and chinstrap penguins, amongst other seabirds like kelp gulls, imperial cormorants, Antarctic terns, and southern giant petrels. On Livingston Island, we will expect to see both chinstrap and gentoo penguins along with elephant seals.

From the ship, there's a chance to glimpse Weddell, crabeater, and leopard seals, as well as humpback and orca whales. Our journey will take us through scenic channels including Gerlache Strait, Neumayer Channel, and Lemaire Channel.

Each day features two landings at safe sites selected by the captain, always accompanied by a guide and crew. Possible destinations include Paradise Bay, various Adélie penguin colonies, Paulet Island, Melchior Islands, Cuverville Island, Portal Point, Neko Harbour, Pléneau Island, and Petermann Island.

Days 8 and 9

As we depart the Antarctic Peninsula and travel northward, we will re-cross the Drake Passage. The crew will offer insightful talks from naturalists regarding the seabirds and whales in the area.

Day 10

Potential Itinerary Adjustments

Please note that passengers departing between February 25 and March 7, 2026, will enjoy an additional day dedicated to exploring the Antarctic Peninsula and South Shetland Islands.

Cabin Options

The Ushuaia features 46 cabins across various categories. When making a reservation, you'll need to select your preferred cabin type:

• Standard Twin: accommodates 2 people. Size: 10.3 meters (33.8 feet), equipped with bunk beds, shared bathroom, porthole view, and desk.
• Standard Twin Plus: fits 2 travelers. Size: 12 meters (39.3 feet), with porthole or window, twin beds, private bathroom, desk, and hairdryer.
• Premier Twin: suits 2 guests. Size: 12.6 meters (41.3 feet), includes twin beds, private bathroom, sea view, desk, and hairdryer.
• Superior Twin: ideal for up to 3 travelers. Approximately 11.6 meters (38 feet), features twin beds, private bathroom, sea-view window, desk, chair, and hairdryer.
• Premier Single: for solo travelers. Approximately 10.6 meters (34.7 feet), has a partially obstructed porthole, private bathroom, and desk.

The Premier Single cabin is the exclusive option for solo travelers. If you choose a different category, shared accommodation with another traveler will be necessary.

Culinary Experience Onboard

This cruise includes comprehensive meal service with beverages offered throughout:

• Buffet breakfast with continental and American options
• Lunch, either self-service or table-service
• Afternoon snacks
• Three-course dinner

Meal schedules may vary based on land excursions. Coffee and tea will be available all day. Please be aware that during meals, only water or tea will be served; alcoholic or non-alcoholic beverages are not included.

When reserving, please notify us of any dietary preferences or allergies to accommodate your meal plan.

Excursions During the Voyage

• A daily itinerary guide will be provided, detailing planned excursions. The captain or crew will announce land trips in a briefing the day before, where details regarding type and duration will be clarified. An expedition team will be assigned to accompany you at each site.
• Excursions will utilize Zodiac boats, which are stable and versatile, granting access to remote and stunning locales. Your team will deliver safety instructions for embarking and disembarking. The ship is equipped with a fleet of Zodiacs, each accommodating up to 12 passengers.
• Excursion plans may adjust based on prevailing weather conditions.

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