Antarctic Peninsula: Crossing the Circle | Ocean Explorer
14 Days
Save Up To 19%
WAS From £ 13,795 Now From £ 11,153 STYLE: Small Ship Expedition Cruise
Trip Code: ACQEASE
DIFFICULTY RATING: 2 (light adventure)
Start: Ushuaia, Argentina
Finish: Ushuaia, Argentina
SHIP: Ocean Explorer
Destination
Antarctic Peninsula & Antarctic Circle
Meals
Breakfast at hotel. All meals & snacks on board. Beer, standard wines & spirits, & cocktails during pre-dinner bar service, dinner & evenings
Transport
Group Transfers On Arrival, Embarkation & Disembarkation
Accommodation
Hotel & Cabin on board ship
DEPARTURE DATES
Enquire Now
Included Sightseeing
Daily Antarctica Excursions, Zodiac Cruising, Onboard Expert Lectures & Briefings by the Experienced Expedition Team.
NOTE: Itinerary is subject to change depending on weather & ice conditions
OVERVIEW
Explore Antarctica to the southern depths of the Antarctic Circle on this 14 day cruise. A truly remarkable place, Antarctica offers you pristine scenery and wonderful diversity of wildlife as you cruise down the peninsula to 66°33'S where most expeditions do not offer. Enjoy a glass of champagne at this point where few have been, taking in the almost untouched surroundings and solitude of this magnificent locations.
ITINERARY
You will begin your journey in Ushuaia, a small but bustling port town at the tip of South America. This Argentine town is an ideal gateway for you to explore the southern extent of Patagonia while preparing for your adventure ahead. Get active in the mountains or enjoy handcrafted chocolate at a café in town.
As the ship sets sail in the late afternoon, you will begin your Antarctic journey, passing through the Beagle Channel. Named after the famed ship on which Charles Darwin voyaged, the channel presents great photo opportunities of landscapes and seabirds. Eventually, the channel opens up to the Southern Ocean, and onwards to Antarctica.
The waters of the Drake Passage are unpredictable, so hope for clear skies and a calm ocean. You’ll have plenty of time to gaze out at the sea, get to know your fellow shipmates and chat with your Expedition Team.
You will spend this time preparing for the exciting days ahead, with numerous educational and informative lectures presented by your Expedition Team. You’ll learn about everything from safety procedures to the history of whaling in Antarctica.
With the Drake Passage left in our wake, we make our approach to Antarctica. Get your cameras ready as the continent’s coastline will make its first appearance, signaling the start of your adventure in the realm of the Antarctic. You’ll see plentiful icebergs floating by and be fixated on the surface of the ocean as curious whales spout and breach before your eyes.
As exciting as it can be from on board the ship, your true exploration occurs when you disembark and set foot on the great continent. There are several potential landing sites we may visit, including Neko Harbour, Orne Harbour or Paradise Harbour. While weather dictates which specific landing sites we can visit, each one presents a new collection of wildlife and natural attractions.
Your days will be busy spotting wildlife and being mesmerized by the beauty of Antarctica. Watching penguins waddling on the beach and listening to the crackling and crumbling sounds of icebergs and glaciers will become your daily entertainment, while kayaking with whales and camping in Antarctica are a couple of optional activities available on selected voyages (at an extra cost).
Crossing the Antarctic Circle is an impressive achievement, as most expeditions to the Antarctic Peninsula do not reach this far south, which is officially noted at 66°33' S. If conditions allow us to cross this famed line, you and your shipmates will celebrate in style with a well-earned glass of champagne! Make a toast and take pride in knowing you’ve made it to a part of the world visited by very few people.
By now, your knowledge of Adélie, chinstrap and gentoo penguins will be matched by your ability to differentiate between a leopard, fur or Weddell seal. Terms like bergy bits and pancake ice will seem normal, yet there are still many tales to be told. As you head north, Zodiac excursions will fill your days, and your Expedition Team will continue offering presentations while giving you time to reflect on everything you’ve experienced.
As you recross the Drake, Antarctica fades away, leaving you with a collection of memories to last a lifetime. Excited conversations with your newfound friends will make the crossing fly by, regardless of weather and sea conditions. Your Expedition Team will round up its series of lectures as well, perhaps with a slideshow of the great landing sites and wildlife you’ve witnessed over the course of your voyage.
Today you’ll say goodbye to your Expedition Team and fellow travelers, disembarking in the morning to catch your homeward flights.
WHY CHOOSE THIS CRUISE?
Be among the select few adventurous travelers who visit the Antarctic Circle.
See famous landing sites and scientific research facilities on the western Antarctic Peninsula.
Witness abundant wildlife, such as penguins, seals and whales
Ocean Explorer
Utilising the best ships and expedition crew is necessary to venture further in the Polar Regions. We have both of them. In terms of elegance, adventure, and cutting-edge technology, Ocean Explorer is the ideal complement to our fleet. For our sophisticated polar explorers, Ocean Explorer enhances the polar experience on all fronts. The Ulstein X-Bow, the industry-leading X-Bow design, ensures that your clients will glide through even the roughest waves with ease. In any polar sea state, the ship's distinctive forward-sloping X-Bow reduces vibration, noise, and impact for a comfortable ride. The ship is equipped with the newest sustainability technologies, including fuel-efficient Rolls-Royce engines and the revolutionary MAGS gasification system, which turns garbage into energy and reduces the environmental effect of waste transportation. Equipped with a fleet of 15 Zodiacs and four distinct sea-level embarkation locations, Ocean Explorer provides a wide range of off-ship experiences, such as Zodiac cruising and kayaking, enabling your guests to experience a close-up encounter with the Antarctic and Arctic wilderness. Every interior feature on board, including the striking two-story forward lounge, the floor to ceiling glass retreat in the library, and the elegant fittings and furniture throughout the ship, has been meticulously chosen by designers to ensure that visitors have a wonderful experience. The roomy and opulent cabins guarantee your guests a peaceful stay free from noise pollution from nearby rooms, and nearly every cabin has an outdoor balcony. Two outdoor Jacuzzis and a dry sauna are available for your clients to relax in after a full day of activities off-ship.
Ice Class: Length: 342 ft (104.4 m)
Breadth: 60.3 ft (18.4 m)Max
Draft: Cruising
Speed:
Electricity: 220V (European) & USB-A ports in night lights Passenger
Capacity:138
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Included ACTIVITIES
These are included in your cruise fare. Activities vary by itinerary and destination and are subject to regulations, weather conditions and other factors.
Zodiac Cruises
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Expert Lectures
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Shore Excursions
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Polar Plunge
Learn MoreOPTIONAL ADVENTURES ADD ONS
These can be booked in advance at an extra cost. Activities vary by itinerary and destination.
Kayaking
Experience the unforgettable thrill and serenity of kayaking in Antarctica as part of a small, expertly guided paddling group.
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Day Paddling
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Stand-up Paddle Boarding
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Photography
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Citizen Science
Learn MorePricing per person
 | Owners SuiteFeatures:- This palatial, airy apartment offers stunning views from its large private veranda on the highest cabin level. The luxurious suite features a large master bedroom, living room and dining area and two large master bathrooms, among other amenities. | 17 % off £ 25,095 £ 20,815Available Enquire Now
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 | Penthouse SuiteFeatures:- This unique 2-room suite is located on Deck 7 and is approximately 269 sq. f (25.0 sq. m.) in size. It has one double bed that can be configured into two singles in the inner bedroom.and the outer sitting area is furnished with a sofa-bed. Walk-out from either room to a double sized balcony . There are also 2 TV's, state of the art 'infotainment' system and private bathroom with shower, vanity and heated floor. And an additional powder room in the outside sitting area. | 17 % off £ 23,495 £ 19,447Available Enquire Now
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 | Veranda StateroomFeatures:- Located throughout the ship and approximately 208 sq. f. (19.3 sq. m,) in size, these cabins have one double bed that can be configured into two singles. There is a floor to ceiling glass view that opens to a walkout balcony. There are also a desk and chair, TV, state of the art ‘infotainment’ system and private bathroom with shower, vanity and heated floor. Note: Cabins include a separate sitting area except 609, 610, 611, 612, 614 and 615. | 18 % off £ 16,195 £ 13,205Available Enquire Now
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 | Deluxe Veranda ForwardFeatures:- Located on Deck 4 and approximately 182 sq. f. (16.9 sq. m,) in size, these cabins have one double bed that can be configured into two singles. There is a floor to ceiling glass view that opens to a walkout balcony. There is also a desk and chair, TV, state of the art 'infotainment' system and private bathroom with shower, vanity and heated floor. | 19 % off £ 15,395 £ 12,521Available Enquire Now
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 | Studio Veranda SingleFeatures:- Designed for one. This unique cabin is located on Deck 7 and approximately 162 sq. f. (15.1 sq. m.). It has one twin bed with a floor to ceiling glass view that opens to a generous walkout balcony. There is also TV, state of the art 'infotainment' system and private bathroom with shower, vanity and heated floor. | 17 % off £ 24,095 £ 19,960Unavailable Enquire Now
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 | Studio SingleFeatures:- Designed for one. These cabins are located on Deck 3 and approximately 166 sq. ft. (15,4 sq. m,) in size, with one double bed and a porthole view. There is also a desk and chair, TV, state of the art 'infotainment' system and private bathroom with shower, vanity and heated floor. | 17 % off £ 22,295 £ 18,421Available Enquire Now
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 | Veranda SuiteFeatures:- Located throughout the ship and approximately 205 sq. ft. (19.2 sq. m,) in size, these cabins have one double bed that can be configured into two singles, and seperate sitting area furnished with a sofa-bed. There is a floor to ceiling glass view that opens to a walkout balcony. There is also a desk and chair, TV, state of the art 'infotainment' system and private bathroom with shower, vanity and heated floor. | 18 % off £ 17,195 £ 14,060Available Enquire Now
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 | Triple SuiteFeatures:- Located on Deck 6 and approximately 298 sq. f. (27.7 sq. m,) in size. These 2-room suites, specifically designed for three guests, are configured with two singles in the inner bedroom and a third bed in the outer room beside the bedroom. Also, the other portion of the outer room is furnished with a sofa. From the bedroom there a floor to ceiling glass view that opens to a double sized walkout balcony. There are also 2 TV's, state of the art 'infotainment' system and private bathroom with bathtub (with shower head) , vanity and heated floor. | 19 % off £ 13,795 £ 11,153Available Enquire Now
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Important Information
* Current Discounts, promotions and pricing are available until 29 July 2026, however discounts may be withdrawn or changed at any time and are subject to availability on selected cabins and departure dates. Some current in market offers may be combinable and Shackleton Club Past Passenger and multi trip discounts may be applied subject to confirmation at the time of booking. Prices are subject to change based on currency fluctuations, fuel surcharges, and other external factors. No discount applies to any transfer packages, additional activities or pre/post services. The advertised prices may also include a 'Pay in full at time of booking' which is a 5-10% early payment discount, which requires the full balance to be paid at the time of booking to apply. Further conditions may apply, contact us for more information.
NOTE: Pricing is subject to change, currency fluctuation and availability at the time of booking and may be varied without notice by us or any of the operators and partners we work with. It is only confirmed and guaranteed at the time of making a booking, agreeing to our terms and conditions and paying a deposit.
Prices are based on per person, twin share* (unless otherwise stated for single, triple cabins)
Prices are correct at time of publishing but are subject to change at any time.
*Itinerary is subject to change depending on weather and ice conditions.In rare and unforeseen situations, an operator may apply a fuel surcharge after your booking has been confirmed and paid. This is outside our control and uncommon, but transparency with our travelers is important to us.
INCLUSIONS
Shipboard accommodation
All meals & snacks on board throughout your voyage
Beer, standard wines & spirits, & cocktails during pre-dinner bar service, dinner & evenings
Coffee, tea and cocoa available around the clock
All shore landings per the daily program, weather permitting
Presentations by expedition team & special guests.
Downloadable photographic journal documenting the expedition
Expedition boots on loan for shore landings
An expedition parka to keep
Hairdryer and bathrobe available in every cabin
All miscellaneous service taxes and port charges throughout the program
Luggage handling aboard the ship
Free WiFiEXCLUSIONS
Any airfare unless otherwise specified in the itinerary
Additional overnight accommodation needed or not mentioned
Passport and visa expenses
Government arrival and departure taxes
Any meals ashore unless otherwise specified
Adventure Options are at an additional cost & subject to availability
Travel insurance
Excess baggage charges
Laundry, bar, beverage and other personal charges unless specified
Mandatory waterproof pants for Zodiac cruising, or any other gear not mentioned
Telecommunications charges
Voluntary staff and crew gratuities
- 2 (light adventure)
Available upon request, a supplement surcharge applies and is subject to availability. Please Contact Us for more information.
Departure date, fuel surcharges, cabin category, currency fluctuations, seasonality and availability.