On this inspiring 11-day cruise, we explore the great White Continent's magnificent landscapes, icy seas and incredible wildlife, before passing 66°33′S– the legendary Antarctic Circle.

Join us onboard our purpose-built, ice-class expedition vessels, Ocean Victory and Ocean Albatros to experience the majesty and wonder of Earth's last frontier up close and personal. Our vessels enable us to get closer to nature, with a fleet of Zodiac landing craft, a team of experienced expert expedition guides, and the Antarctic Peninsula as our spectacular destination. 

Departing Argentina's southernmost city of Ushuaia, we cross the mighty Drake Passage en-route to the South Shetland Islands, aiming to arrive on the afternoon of the third day of our voyage (weather permitting). The unique X-Bow design of our expedition vessels offers exceptional stability at sea, giving you a smoother ride across some of Earth's most challenging waters, while the vessels' speed allows us to maximise our time in Antarctica to offer a superlative exploration experience. 

Continuing southward from the South Shetland Islands, we will delve deeper into the inlets and bays of the Antarctic Peninsula, entering the famous Gerlache Strait, where glittering ice cliffs and precipitous peaks rise straight out of the frigid water. Icebergs, glaciers, mountains and rugged snowfields characterise this wildly beautiful alien landscape. On no other journey can you experience so much pristine nature and varied wildlife in such a short time. Our skilled Captain and Expedition Leader will work hard to maximise opportunities to explore the White Continent. While wind, sea and ice conditions will dictate the exact locations we will visit, we will make Zodiac landings to allow guests to set foot on land and experience penguin rookeries, research stations and historical sites, and aim to Zodiac cruise in scenic areas filled with giant icebergs, whales and seals. Shore landings and Zodiac safaris will occupy our days, while our knowledgeable onboard Expedition Team will offer a selection of specially crafted lectures to inform your matchless expedition experience. 

We always aim to visit locations which showcase the best of Antarctica; while wildlife sighting are of course subject to the whims of Mother Nature, a variety of penguin, whale and seal species can all be found in this inhospitable wilderness. Jaw-dropping scenery and landscapes are guaranteed! From the 'mainland' of the Peninsula, we set off southwards, aiming for the Antarctic Circle at 66°33′ South -  a goal which has eluded many of the talented and driven explorers of yesteryear. Watch as the sun circles your vessel, never quite setting at this extreme latitude. 

Dense pack ice forbids many ordinary vessels from reach this far south, but with PC6/1A ice ratings, Ocean Victory and Ocean Albatros can access areas off-limits for most ships. With an average occupancy of 175 guests aboard Ocean Victory and Ocean Albatros, our cruises offer a unique experience for the brave few.

Facts about South Shetlands Islands, Antarctica and crossing the Circle
  • Antarctica