Antarctica Springs to Life (Ocean Victory)

Welcome to Ushuaia – the gateway to Antarctica! When you arrive at the airport, you’ll be transferred to your comfortable hotel for the night. Spend some time unwinding at the hotel, then have a welcome meeting this evening to meet your fellow adventurers. If you arrive early, why not get out and about in Ushuaia – maybe snack on some local Argentinian specialties or track down the perfect keepsake.

This morning, you might like to visit a local museum like the Maritime Museum, do some souvenir shopping in town or simply relax at the hotel before you board your ship – the Ocean Victory. When you’re on board, you’ll meet the Expedition Team who will be by your side for your whole voyage, then you’ll have a safety and orientation briefing. Tonight, join your fellow travellers and the captain for a welcome dinner on board. And so your adventure begins!

These two days will see you crossing the famed Drake Passage. This sea crossing connects the southernmost point of South America with the tip of the Antarctic Peninsula. As you sail, you’ll learn about the history, ecology and wildlife surrounding you from your knowledgeable Expedition Team. Take part in onboard activities including the Citizen Science program, where you’ll contribute to research into Antarctica’s ecosystems and wildlife, including how the region is being impacted by climate change. Feel the temperature drop as you cross the Antarctic Convergence into Antarctica’s waters. Keep your binoculars at the ready – albatross, petrels and prions are common sights here.

Today is all about immersing yourself in the striking landscapes of the South Shetland Islands. The distinctive geology of these islands has been shaped by volcanic activity over time. You’ll spend today on a Zodiac cruise, exploring the landscapes of mountains and glaciers teeming with wildlife that make up this archipelago. After the long winter, the wildlife here is now back in full force. Encounter chinstrap and gentoo penguins, whales and elephant and fur seals. You might even stop at Deception Island for a walk along the black sand. This island, formed by the crater of an active volcano, is peppered with the ruins of a Norwegian whaling station and scientific bases from the 1960s.

Witness Antarctica as it reawakens after the winter. Over these two days, you’ll watch multiple species of penguins come ashore, gather, build nests and tend to their eggs. See seals, seabirds, whales and more as the White Continent starts to buzz with activity once again. You might also head out on excursions to visit scientific research bases and historic landing sites. In the evenings, witness the unforgettable spectacle of an Antarctic sunset.

Begin your journey back north, crossing the Drake Passage once again. Celebrate your polar adventure with your fellow travellers and Expedition Team during a slideshow of memories from the trip, a photography contest with the other travellers and one last meal together. Toast to your incredible journey on the 7th continent!

This morning, it’s time to disembark the ship as your Antarctic expedition comes to an end. If you’d like to extend your stay in Ushuaia, just speak to your booking agent ahead of time.