Antarctica Cruise

Depart on an overnight flight to Buenos Aires, Argentina.

Arrive in Buenos Aires, where a representative meets you at your gate and assists you through arrival formalities. Then transfer to your hotel, where immediate check-in has been arranged. Relax and get to know your fellow travelers this evening at a welcome cocktail party.

This morning following breakfast, transfer back to the Buenos Aires Airport (Jorge Newbery Airport) for your charter flight to Ushuaia. Fly to Ushuaia, the southernmost city in the world. Upon arrival, enjoy sightseeing and a traditional Patagonian barbecue lunch. Later, arrive at your ship and settle in for your first night on board. 'Le Boreal' is a comfortable, stylish ship, both spacious and passenger-friendly. Wander the decks, relax in the lounge and mingle with fellow travelers in anticipation of your voyage.

As you sail east toward the Falklands, your lecturers begin their informal series of enlightening discussions on the flora, fauna and the history of the region. The waters here are rich in krill, making them a favorite with local wildlife searching for food. Alongside your naturalist guides, spot whale and seabirds from the cruiser’s deck.

Today, you have the opportunity to step back in time to a place where nature reigns supreme. Spend your day walking to penguin rookeries and other unspoiled wildlife habitats, or perhaps strolling the charming streets of the village of Stanley, the Falklands’ capital.

As the ship approaches South Georgia, deck-side sightings of whale, seal and other wildlife become more frequent. The time spent cruising to South Georgia is filled with informative lectures — as well as casual talks with your guides — that soon have you scanning the seas like an expert.

South Georgia is actually a nearly submerged continuation of the Andes mountain range, and your days here are spent exploring its glacier-carved coves and rugged shores. Visit the impressive Salisbury Plain, St. Andrews Bay or Gold Harbor, all home to vast colonies of king penguins, as well as fur and elephant seals. You also have the opportunity to retrace part of the route taken by Ernest Shackleton during his historic crossing of South Georgia Island in 1916. Weather permitting, you may visit his gravesite in Grytviken.

During your time cruising the deep-blue Scotia Sea — rich with marine mammals and fish — expert lecturers recap your adventures in South Georgia.

The ship’s itinerary calls for landings on the Antarctic Peninsula and a number of South Shetland Islands, which may include Half Moon, Penguin and Deception. Other possible island visits may include Cuverville, Paulet and Goudier. There are also plans to sail through Paradise Bay and the Lemaire Channel, with additional opportunities for exploration, including a stop at a scientific research station. While on board, you may view whale and birdlife from the deck or from your own cabin’s private balcony.

Return through Drake Passage, where there are more chances to observe marine and birdlife. Compare notes on your incredible journey with your fellow travelers, either on deck or in one of Le Boreal’s comfortable gathering spots.

Disembark after breakfast and transfer to the airport for return flights home.