Day-by-Day Journey

Day 1: Fly to Ushuaia
Board your economy flight from Buenos Aires to Ushuaia, the gateway to Antarctica. Land and transfer to a 4-star hotel in Ushuaia’s heart, near the Beagle Channel. Spend the evening exploring this rugged town—maybe grab a local crab dinner at a waterfront spot (not included).

Day 2: Board the Ship
After breakfast at the hotel, transfer to the port and board your expedition ship, a mid-sized vessel with ice-strengthened hulls and cozy ocean-view cabins. Settle in, meet the crew, and join a welcome briefing. Sail down the Beagle Channel as the Andes fade into the distance. Dinner’s on board—think hearty soups and fresh bread.

Day 3-4: Drake Passage Crossing
Two days at sea crossing the Drake Passage, the legendary stretch between South America and Antarctica. It can be choppy, but your ship’s got stabilizers, and the crew keeps you busy with lectures on Antarctic wildlife and history. Spot albatross and petrels from the deck, and enjoy buffet meals (breakfast, lunch, dinner included). Evenings bring cozy bar chats or movie nights in the lounge.

Day 5: South Shetland Islands
Reach the South Shetlands, your first taste of Antarctica. Weather permitting, your first zodiac landing takes you to a rocky shore teeming with chinstrap penguins and fur seals. Guided by experts, you’ll learn about the islands’ volcanic history. Back on board, dinner’s a warm feast as you sail toward the Antarctic Peninsula.

Day 6-8: Antarctic Peninsula Exploration
Three epic days exploring the Peninsula. Each day includes zodiac landings (three total included) to spots like Paradise Bay or Neko Harbor, where you’ll cruise past icebergs and glaciers. Your guided penguin colony visits get you up close to gentoo and Adélie penguins waddling and squawking. Keep an eye out for humpback whales and leopard seals. Onboard lectures cover glaciology and marine life, and meals keep you fueled—think roasted meats, fresh salads, and desserts. One evening, enjoy a special Antarctic-themed dinner with seafood specials.

Day 9: At Sea
A chill day sailing back through the Drake Passage. Join a photography workshop to edit your iceberg shots or relax in the lounge with a book from the ship’s library. Meals are included, and the bar’s open for cocktails (not included) as you swap stories with fellow travelers.

Day 10-11: More Drake Passage
Another day at sea, with more lectures on Antarctica’s ecosystem or history. Spot seabirds or maybe a distant whale from the deck. The crew hosts a Q&A with the captain, and you can visit the bridge to see navigation in action. Meals keep the vibe warm—think hearty stews and fresh-baked pastries. Evening brings a farewell party with music and dancing.

Day 12: Disembark and Fly Home
Dock in Ushuaia after breakfast. Say goodbye to the ship and transfer to the airport for your flight to Buenos Aires, then connect to your US-bound flight. Land with a camera full of penguin pics and a heart full of icy memories.

Where You’re Staying

Ushuaia: One night in a 4-star hotel, like a cozy spot with Beagle Channel views, modern rooms, Wi-Fi, and a hearty breakfast buffet.
Ship: 10 nights in an ocean-view cabin on a mid-sized expedition vessel (max 90 passengers). Expect twin or double beds, private bathroom, small desk, and porthole views. Public areas include a dining room, lounge, bar, library, and open deck for wildlife spotting. Meals are buffet-style with local and international options, served three times daily.

What’s Included

Economy Flights: Round-trip from Buenos Aires to Ushuaia, connecting to your US departure city.
Ushuaia Hotel: 1 night pre-cruise with breakfast.
Expedition Cruise: 10 nights with ocean-view cabin, all meals (breakfast, lunch, dinner).
Zodiac Landings: Three guided landings for close-up Antarctic exploration.
Penguin Colony Visits: Guided tours to observe penguins in their natural habitat.
Private Transfers: Airport to hotel, hotel to ship, ship to airport in Ushuaia.
Onboard Lectures: Daily talks by naturalists on wildlife, history, and glaciology.

Why This Package is a Bucket-List Win

Antarctica’s the ultimate adventure, and this trip makes it doable for $4,499. You’re getting flights, a comfy ship, and up-close wildlife encounters—penguins, seals, maybe whales—plus zodiac rides through icy bays, all without the crazy costs of luxury cruises. The small ship size means more landings and less waiting, and the expert guides make every moment epic. It’s affordable luxury that delivers the thrill of the White Continent without skimping on comfort.

Antarctica Travel Tips

Currency: US dollars (USD) or Argentine Peso (ARS) in Ushuaia; cards work on the ship, but bring cash for tips.
Weather: Pack warm layers—waterproof jacket, gloves, hat, and sturdy boots. Ship provides some gear.
Safety: Follow crew instructions on zodiacs; wildlife’s wild, so keep your distance.
Health: Seasickness pills for the Drake Passage are a lifesaver—bring some. No major health risks, but check vaccinations.
Etiquette: Respect the environment—no littering, no touching wildlife. Stay quiet during animal sightings.