Polar Circle Quest | Ushuaia Expedition Ship

Polar Circle Quest

Join a USHUAIA expedition to discover the Antarctic Peninsula and South Shetland Islands. You will also attempt to reach the Polar Circle. Admire pristine landscapes as you sail through famous channels and see icebergs. Explore iconic locations like Paradise Bay or Deception Island, as well as diverse wildlife such penguins and seals. A journey filled with natural beauty and exploration awaits.

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: At Sea. Crossing the Drake Passage

Drake Passage is named for Sir Francis Drake, who first explored the waters in 1578. It is caused by a bio-barrier that forms when the cold waters from the poles are sunk below the warmer water of the North. This results in a massive upwelling of nutrients, which is essential for the biodiversity. Drake Passage also marks the limit of many Antarctic seabirds. Antarpply Expeditions' lecturers will be onboard to help identify all the seabirds, including many albatrosses.

The USHUAIA's open bridge policy allows passengers to observe and learn from officers about navigation, whales, and the view. A full program of lectures will be available.

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, a brig. Our naturalists will accompany you on Day 3 as you experience your first encounter with penguins or sea seals.

Day 4 to 9: Exploring the Antarctic Peninsula, the South Shetland Islands, and endeavor to cross the Polar Circle

Day 10 & 11: At Sea. Crossing the Drake Passage, northbound

Day 12: Arrival in Ushuaia

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Highlights

Explore the pristine landscapes of the Antarctic Peninsula, encountering diverse wildlife, including penguins, seals, and whales.

Embark on a daring quest to cross the Polar Circle, venturing to exquisite locations like Paradise Bay and Cuverville Island.

Sail north across the Drake Passage, reflecting on awe-inspiring moments with lecturers and naturalists on deck.

Explore the rich wildlife havens of the South Shetland Islands, witnessing vast penguin rookeries and seals along the volcanic coastlines.

Reflect on your Antarctic encounters while crossing the Drake Passage northbound, accompanied by insightful lectures and whale watching.

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.