The Ultimate Expedition and Solar Eclipse

The Birthplace of Tango

Buenos Aires, the vibrant and bustling capital of Argentina is the starting point for our expedition. An overnight stay gives you the chance to acquaint yourself and explore this lively city.

Tierra del Feugo

An early morning flight to Ushuaia gives you some time to experience this beautiful city before picking up the ship and sailing through the scenic Beagle Channel.

There is also the opportunity to take advantage of an optional excursion to Tierra del Feugo National Park. Created in 1960, the park covers some 68,909 hectares and combines marine, wood and mountain environments. It promises the most unusual scenery and the purest air ever found.

The Vast Open Sea

Enjoy the abundance of wildlife from the deck and learn more about their habitat and environment with our in-depth lectures as we cross the open sea towards the Falkland Islands.

The Wonders of Nature: Days 4 – 5

Clear blue skies, seamless horizons and stunning white beaches. The Falklands is a natural wonderland where diverse wildlife live side by side. Here, it’s not unusual to find sheep grazing alongside large colonies of albatross and penguins, whilst the skies are filled with caracaras, on the hunt for their next meal.

We dock at Stanley, the island’s capital for a full day, so you’ll have plenty of time to acquaint yourself with the town. There is also an included self-guided walk (can be taken as part of a group or on an individual basis). Starting at the historic Jubilee Villa gardens the walk takes in Christchurch Cathedral, Whalebone Arch and the Historic Dockyard Museum.

Cruising: Days 6 -7

You know that Antarctica is getting closer when we cross the famed Drake Passage. As we journey south, our on-board Expedition Team start their lecture programme on the region’s wildlife, whaling and polar history.

The Galapagos of the Poles: Days 8 – 10

The natural beauty of South Georgia makes it a favoured spot for nature photographers. Yet what makes this place special is its unique position inside the Antarctic ecosystem. Remaining outside of the yearly sea ice, it lends itself as the perfect environment and home to tens of millions of breeding penguins, seals and seabirds.

Conscious of protecting their natural habitat, our activities are designed to bring you close enough without disturbing the wildlife. We also hope to visit a whaling museum and to pay our respects at the grave of the great explorer Sir Ernest Shackleton.

Founded by Welsh settlers in the late 19^th century, Puerto Madryn, still has a number of Welsh influences, including tea. Included in the itinerary is trip to one of the tea houses, where, once you’ve  enjoyed your tea, you can sit back and observe the sea lions.

Heading to Antarctica: Days 11 – 12

Focusing on the history, environment and wildlife of the continent, another day at sea gives you time to learn and familiarise yourself with the wonders of the Antarctic. Setting our course for Elephant Island, we will cruise by the Washington Strait and Coronation Island.

Prepare for the Eclipse

600km northeast of the Antarctic Peninsula, The South Orkney Islands consist of four islands situated in the Scotia Sea. Arriving early morning, it’s from here that you’ll witness the Solar Eclipse (weather permitting). Once you have been equipped with special-purpose solar filters, our Expedition Team will hand over to our professional astronomer to deliver insights and Impart information of this spectacular phenomenon.

Whilst we’re here, we also plan to explore the South Orkney islands themselves. 85% glaciers, it’s the perfect home for various species of penguins and seals.

Setting the Course for Antarctica: Days 14 – 15

As we continue south, the white shimmer of Antarctica will be looming in the distance. Days at sea are ideal opportunities to learn more about the wonders of the Deep South and its abundance of wildlife or for simply relaxing and enjoying the seascapes.

Wildlife in its Natural Habitat: Days 16 – 20

You’ll notice that the air becomes crisper and cooler as we approach Antarctica. This is a true wilderness and where our Captain comes into his own. Working with the elements he’ll attempt landings on several sites in the South Shetlands and on the Antarctic Peninsula to show you the diversity of the incredible landscape and rich wildlife on display in this pristine wilderness.

To make this voyage extra special, we hope to cross the Polar Circle. At 66 degrees 33’ south, it’s far beyond the limit of most cruises in Antarctica, with areas that are permanently iced down and unnavigable in the winter.

To get close to its powerful beauty, when opportunities arise, our Expedition Team will take you for landings and ice cruising. You’ll also get the chance to kayak among the icebergs, take unforgettable hikes to explore some of the more remote places and perhaps pitch tents ashore.

The Voyage North: Days 21 – 22

Heading for our return journey, you’ll get the opportunity to continue our lecture series and to recap this amazing experience. Setting sail once again for Ushuaia (the southern tip of Argentina) is roughly 950km in good weather.

Pointing South

Your cruise ends where it started, in Ushuaia, where you’ll fly back to Buenos Aires.