This cruise offers the ultimate introduction to the White Continent. Embarking and disembarking in the port of Ushuaia, the expertly-planned itinerary includes many of the wildlife and scenic highlights of the Antarctic Peninsula and the South Shetland Islands. Amazingly busy penguin colonies, a spectacular variety of seabirds, an abundance of seals and magnificent whales await you, all set in a breathtaking scenery of imposing mountain ranges, ice-filled channels, beautifully-shaped icebergs and awe-inspiring glaciers.

Day 1: Ushuaia

Get ready to embark the expedition vessel in the afternoon and meet your friendly expedition and lecture staff.

After you have settled into your cabins, we sail along the famous Beagle Channel and the scenic Mackinlay Pass.

Days 2 – 3: Crossing the Drake Passage

As we sail across the passage, the ship’s lecturers will be out with you on deck to help in the identification of an amazing variety of seabirds which follow in our wake, including albatrosses. The boat’s open bridge policy allows you to join our officers on the bridge and learn about navigation, watch for whales, and enjoy the view. A full program of lectures will be offered, as well.

The first sightings of icebergs and snow-capped mountains indicate that we have reached the South Shetland Islands. With favorable conditions in the Drake Passage, our lecturers and naturalists will accompany you ashore as you experience your first encounter with the penguins and seals on Day 3.

Days 4 – 8: South Shetland Islands & the Antarctic Peninsula

Sailing through the narrow passage into the flooded caldera of Deception Island, you will have the chance to swim in the hot springs of Pendulum Cove.

King George Island, the largest of the South Shetland Islands, features colonies of nesting Adélie and Chinstrap Penguins, Kelp Gulls, Blue-eyed Cormorants, Antarctic Terns and Southern Giant Petrels.

If ice conditions allow, we will navigate some of the world's most beautiful waterways, including the Gerlache Strait, the Neumayer Channel, and the Lemaire Channel - narrow passages between towering rock faces and spectacular glaciers.

We plan to make at least two landings per day. Possible landing sites may include the aptly-named Paradise Bay. We will also attempt a landing on the Continent proper.

Day 9 – 10: Crossing the Drake Passage, northbound

We leave Antarctica and head north across the Drake Passage. You are welcome to join our lecturers and naturalists on deck as we search for seabirds and whales and enjoy some final lectures.

Take the chance to relax and reflect on the fascinating adventures of the past days on the way back to Ushuaia.

Day 11: Ushuaia

We arrive in Ushuaia in the early morning and disembark the vessel after breakfast.

Note: Some departures have a 10 day itinerary. Contact us for details.

Why not combine this voyage with time in and around Ushuaia, either prior to or after your cruise? Or enjoy another must-see highlight of Patagonia, Torres del Paine? Email us at info@chimuadventures.com to find out more.