The Great Austral Loop | L'Austral Expedition Ship

The Great Austral Loop

This 18-day Antarctic adventure starts in Ushuaia, Argentina, with time spent enjoying onboard amenities during several days at sea. The expedition visits the Falkland Islands, home to penguins, albatrosses, and dramatic scenery. South Georgia follows, showcasing extensive king penguin colonies and seals. The pinnacle of the journey is the Antarctic Peninsula, known for its impressive glaciers, diverse wildlife, and daily zodiac trips. The expedition wraps up with a crossing of the Drake Passage back to Ushuaia.

Day by day

Day 1: Ushuaia

Ushuaia, Argentina’s southernmost city and capital of Tierra del Fuego, is often considered the gateway to Antarctica and the South Pole. Nicknamed “the end of the world,” it is beautifully situated where the Andes mountains meet the sea. This picturesque city, surrounded by wildlife-rich plains, represents the allure of distant and hard-to-reach destinations.

Day 2: At Sea

On this day at sea, take advantage of various onboard activities and amenities. Relax in the spa, stay fit in the gym, or, depending on the weather, enjoy the pool or sunbathe. You can also attend lectures, watch shows, visit the boutique, or meet photographers. For those who enjoy the open sea, the upper deck offers views of the waves and opportunities to spot marine creatures, combining comfort, relaxation, and entertainment.

Day 3: New Island & Grave Cove

Day 4, 5 & 6: At Sea

Day 7, 8 & 9: South Georgia

Day 10 & 11: At Sea

Day 12, 13, 14 & 15: Antarctic Peninsula

Day 16 & 17: Drake Passage

Day 18: Ushuaia

+12

Cruise Includes

All-inclusive dining (gourmet French cuisine)

24-hour room service

Free Wi-Fi (location-dependent)

Zodiac excursions

Entertainment: live music, shows, lectures

Spa access (limited free services)

Cruise does not include

Shore excursions (varies by destination)

Premium spa services and treatments

Alcoholic beverages (some exclusions)

Personal shopping expenses

Tips for the local guide

Highlights

Zodiac excursions around glaciers and icebergs.

Observing massive penguin colonies and seals on South Georgia.

Exploring the Falkland Islands' pristine natural beauty and wildlife.

Cruise options for this itinerary

Note: Prices may vary according to cruise and cabin category. Please contact us for more details

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.