Start your trip in the world’s southernmost city where adventure and excitement await.
Begin a journey to the seventh continent with these Antarctica cruises from Ushuaia, a Patagonian outpost at the end of the earth. Explore nearby Tierra del Fuego National Park, uncover the history of this unusual settlement at the Maritime Museum, or fuel up for a journey to Antarctica with an Argentinian steak and a glass of red wine. Follow in the footsteps of legendary explorers as you sail down the Beagle Channel, cross the Drake Passage, and make unforgettable landfall on the Sub Antarctic Islands.
Antarctica cruises from Ushuaia
Antarctica cruises from Ushuaia highlights
Wander the streets of Ushuaia
This small but breathtaking town at the end of the world may be the gateway to the wild waters of Antarctica but it’s also deserving of a top spot on your travel bucket list in its own right. Perched dramatically at the base of the Martial Mountains, Ushuaia is saturated in history, beauty, good food, and colorful wildlife. Once you start taking a few snaps, you won’t be able to put your camera away.
Take a hike to Martial Glacier
Before you take your Antarctic adventure to the seas, take it up into the clouds by hiking or catching the chair lift to the top of Martial Glacier. Giving you an unparalleled view of Ushuaia and its surrounds (including the Beagle Channel), this glacier feels as if it’s in the remote Patagonian wilderness when in reality, it’s a mere 4 miles away from the city center.
Spot penguins on Martillo Island
If you think your wildlife adventure doesn’t start until you set sail for the icy shores of Antarctica, then think again. Patagonia’s Martillo Island is home to three species of penguin – the magellanic, gentoo, and king penguins – and you’ll be treated to an up-close view of all three if you happen to set foot on the island. Walk with these penguins as they call out to each other for an experience you’ll never forget.
Cross the Drake Passage
Antarctica is a land of dramatic extremes, so it only makes sense that, in order to get there, you have to cross what is known as one of the roughest sea passages in the world. Talked about in revered whispers, the sometimes-calm, sometimes-volatile waters of Drake Passage will test you and your stomach’s strength as waves can reach up to 26 feet high.
Explore Parque Nacional Tierra del Fuego
You’d be right for thinking the main attraction to Ushuaia is the close proximity to Antarctica but what you might not have known is that the town’s second main attraction is the incredible Tierra del Fuego National Park. Not only does the park boast extraordinary landscapes of wooded forests, mountainous terrain, and sparkling lagoons but it’s also full of wildlife from flocks of sea birds to groups of guanacos just waiting to be marveled at.
Marvel at the mighty animals of Antarctica
When traveling to Antarctica there’s a couple of things you can count on; being surrounded by shelves of ice at all times and getting the chance to watch marine mammals in their natural element. From the powerful blue whale to the smallest of chinstrap penguins (and all the seals and sea birds in between), spot these fascinating Antarctic animals from aboard the Ocean Endeavour, out on a zodiac boat, or when your feet touch icy land.
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Norman · Traveled February 2024
Fantastic Antarctic voyage. Made it to below the Antarctic Circle. I did the sea kayaking add on which put me in proximity with orcas and humpback whales. Very well run. Good food on the boat and numerous informative lectures. Highly recommend!
Review submitted 17 Feb 2024
Diane · Traveled February 2024
This expedition entitled Journey to the Antarctic Circle is a unique opportunity to appreciate and understand how all life on this beloved Earth is interwoven and interconnected. I fell in love with this sublime continent. Oftentimes there were no words to express what I was feeling. One wow moment after another. It will stay with me
Review submitted 17 Feb 2024
Tejdeep · Traveled February 2024
I had such a great experience going to Antarctic circle and peninsula. Activities are well organized and staff is knowledgeable and educated me about Antarctica ecosystem and wildlife
Review submitted 16 Feb 2024
Paul · Traveled February 2024
Thoroughly enjoyed the Antarctica experience with Intrepid. Saw and did many unique things in the 12 days. Highly recommended as a bucket list item. Thanks.
Review submitted 16 Feb 2024
Suzanne · Traveled February 2024
Best trip ever!
Review submitted 16 Feb 2024