Crossing the Circle: Southern Expedition
Three Departures
Start: Ushuaia
Finish: Ushuaia
Day 1
Ushuaia, Tierra del Fuego, Argentina
Most voyages to Antarctica depart from Ushuaia. Crossing the Circle: Southern Expedition is no exception. The Argentine city is the closest to the Antarctic Peninsula. You can reach it from Buenos Aires or Santiago, Chile. We suggest that you arrive as early in the day as possible. Ushuaia has lots to offer - a scenic setting, hiking trails and kayaking the Beagle Channel.
Day 2
Embarkation Day
You are transferred in the late afternoon to the port to embark the ship.
Day 3-4
The Drake Passage
Juggling binoculars and camera will become a regular activity as you cross the Drake Passage. When the winds are strong, seabirds accompany the ship, gliding effortlessly. Our Expedition Team will be on deck with you to assist with identification. If you have booked one of the adventure options - kayaking or camping - you can expect to participate in an introductory briefing.
Day 5-12
Antarctica
The ultimate objective of this expedition is to cross the Antarctic Circle. En route, the Expedition Team will attempt a number of shore landings in the Peninsula, and if conditions permit the South Shetland Islands. The Captain and Expedition Leader will make adjustments to the program, taking advantage of local conditions. The crossing could be attempted early in the voyage or toward the end. Perhaps, you'll take a polar dip in a thermal hot spring - or a chilly bay below the Circle? You'll visit penguin rookeries and if local permission is granted, you'll meet researchers living in relative isolation on Antarctic bases. Those who have opted for camping or kayaking will participate in those activities while the remaining members of the expedition are exploring concurrently. Each Crossing the Circle itinerary is unique.
Day 13-14
The Drake Passage
If you are passionate about seeing an icy Antarctica, then the first departure is the one we recommend. If fluffy chicks are part of your dream, then the second and third departures are best. No matter which departure you choose, you could find the Drake lives up to its reputation as the worst stretch of water on the planet - or not.
Day 15
Disembarkation - Ushuaia, Argentina
Our intention is to be moored by 8AM. However some times local conditions make that difficult. So we recommend that you book your flight home in the afternoon.