Cruise Antarctica | Atlas Ocean Voyages' Antarctic Discover

Day 1 |  Ushuaia, Argentina

Your fantastic voyage begins at the gateway to Antarctica in the southernmost city of South America known as The End of the World in Ushuaia, Argentina. Set on the Isla Grande Tierra del Fuego archipelago bounded by snow-capped mountains and straddling the Beagle Channel where Darwin once sailed, experience this rugged picturesque city, its imposing landscapes, Maritime Museum and remarkable seafood. Following embarkation, meet your Captain, expedition team and crew as you delight in a welcome champagne reception as you set sail.

Days 2 - 3 | At Sea in the Drake Passage

For the next 48 hours, navigate this exhilarating waterway where the cold southern waters mingle with the warmer northern seas on your way to the Antarctic Peninsula, the northernmost site of The White Continent. The excitement increases with opportunities to witness curious hourglass dolphins, and humpback, fin, orca and minke whales, as well as welcome sounds of petrels, gulls and skuas, with possible black-browed albatross sightings. Following this incredible journey through the Drake Passage, considered to be a rite of passage to Antarctica, immerse in the sights of soaring rocky snow-covered peaks as your ship arrives in the South Shetland Islands.

Day 4 | South Shetland Islands

A chain of ice-laden islands adjacent to the northern Antarctic Peninsula, discover a wealth of wildlife including penguins, seals and shags, plus breathtaking landscapes, ecosystems and scientific research outposts. Discover Elephant Island, home to elephant seals; the active volcanic caldera of Deception Island, noted for swimming in its volcanically heated waters in Pendulum Cove; and the crescent-shaped Half Moon Island and steep cliffs of ice-free Barriento Island, both inhabited by Gentoo and Chinstrap penguins. These natural wonders offer an abundance of opportunities for hiking, wildlife sightings and exploration. Greenwich Island is another possible Zodiac landing in glacial-rimmed Yankee Harbor and Point Wild. The Captain will plot a course for the ideal landing spots due to everchanging climate conditions and best areas to experience the perfect seascapes, landscapes and wildlife opportunities for a memorable day.

Days 5 - 7 |  Explore Antarctica - Captain's Choice

The White Continent offers intrepid explorers the opportunity to witness extraordinary wildlife, the massiveness of icebergs, the grandeur of glaciers and snow-covered landscapes few have trekked before. Your Captain and expedition team will traverse the Antarctic in search of the best sites and weather conditions for Zodiac landings, kayaking and exploration over each of the next three days. Sites may include the arch-shaped Beak Island, Brown Bluff's rock formations, the glacial face of Cierva Cove, scenic Hidden Bay and beyond. Each destination offers its own untamed fauna and geological wonders for a complete bucket-list experience.

Days 8 - 9 |  At Sea in the Drake Passage

Say farewell to the magnificent 7th continent as you cruise the waters of the Drake Passage back to Ushuaia. Reminisce with your fellow explorers about the enriching life-changing moments of experiencing the southernmost realms on the earth, while keeping watch for lively marine life and the birds that follow the ship. Enjoy the ship's amenities and savor great cuisines, wines and small plates with an Apres Sea celebration before your final dinner, as Antarctica fades from view and returns back to Argentina.

Day 10 |  Ushuaia, Argentina

Begin your day with a delicious breakfast spread before disembarkation in Ushuaia this morning. Continue with a post-cruise hotel stay or journey to your next destination.