The Antarctic Peninsula
The most classic of all Antarctica cruises
The Antarctic Peninsula: The Classic Voyage
Days: 11-12 | From: $5800/person
This is the most classic of all Antarctica cruises, departing from Patagonia, exploring one of Antarctica's most magnificent regions, with
- Includes first night in Ushuaia and a full expedition with engaging naturalist guides down to Antarctica
- Includes meals, excursions, and tours
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Specialist
We tailor itineraries to your dates and interests, adjusting hotels, excursions and length as desired.
We consistently receive 5 star reviews from our discerning clients.
At a glance
- Ushuaia
1 night: Stay in the world's southernmost city - Ushuaia Embarkation
1 night: Begin your cruise to the Antarctica Peninsula - Drake Channel
2 nights: Cross the Drake Passage - South Shetland Islands
1-2 nights: Explore the diversity of the South Shetland Islands - Antarctic Peninsula
3 nights: Enjoy a series of excursions on the Antarctic Peninsula - Drake Passage
2 nights: Return via the Drake Passage - Ushuaia Disembarkation
Return home or continue with your journey
All itineraries are fully customizable. We will send you a personalized variation that reflects your interests and travel dates at no extra cost. Call to discuss your travel plans with one of our Specialists who know this region firsthand.
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Sample itinerary
Arrive to Ushuaia
Arrive to Ushuaia, the southernmost city in the world. You’ll have time to explore some of the sights of charming Ushuaia, set in dramatic fashion along the Beagle Channel. An optional evening briefing is a great opportunity for you to ask questions and to meet some of your fellow travelers.
Embarkation
Embark on your Antarctic cruise. After a complimentary buffet breakfast, you’re free to explore Ushuaia or unwind at your hotel until the mid-afternoon transfer to the ship. On board, you’ll be greeted by the Expedition Team and the Ship’s Officers. A concise safety and orientation briefing will be followed by the Captain’s welcome dinner. After dinner, relax and take in the scenery on our early evening sail through the Beagle Channel, past Magellanic Penguin, Rock Cormorant, and Sea Lion colonies.
Accommodations: Hebridean Sky
Sister ship to the Island Sky, she is known for her effortless elegance, impeccable service, and an atmosphere of charm and camaraderie. Hebridean Sky continues that tradition while adding a host of new amenities as well as state-of-the-art stabilization, fuel efficiency, and upgraded communications systems. All suites and public spaces have been completely redecorated. This is a top option for your Antarctica experience.
*Includes: Breakfast, DinnerAlternative lodging options: Ocean Adventurer, Ocean Diamond, Island Sky
Crossing the Drake Passage
As you make our way ever closer to the white continent, numerous Polar Experts will prepare us with presentations on everything Antarctic, from wildlife to history. Eventually, we’ll cross the Antarctic Convergence where we’ll notice a distinct drop in temperature as you enter the waters of the Antarctic Ocean. Those interested in Citizen Science can take part in Sea Bird sighting surveys, or help collect salinity samples and weather data along the way. You’re likely to witness some spectacular sights, from icebergs to an array of seabirds and whale species.
South Shetland Islands
Your first sight of land will likely be that of the South Shetland Islands. These highly volcanic islands offer amazing abundance and beauty. You might visit Half Moon Island nestled inside Livingston’s eastern shore, or conditions permitting, you might visit the historic Deception Island. Being further north, sub-Antarctic species are more commonly found here, including Chinstrap penguins and Southern Elephant seals.
Antarctic Peninsula
As you head south across the Bransfield Strait, you will enter the Trinity Coast and Gerlache Strait. Here you might explore picturesque Neko Harbor, sheltered Paradise Harbor, the Humpback whale favored Wilhelmina Bay, the striking Lemaire Channel, the wildlife-filled Penola Channel, or the majestic Neumayer Channel. We might even stop at an active scientific base such as Poland’s Arctowksi or Ukraine’s Vernadskiy as well as a historic base such as U.K.’s Port Lockroy or Wordie House.
Adelie, Chinstrap and Gentoo Penguins abound, and Weddell and Crabeater seals are often found hauled out to rest along with predatory Leopard seals and the assertive Antarctic Fur Seal. Minke and Humpback whales are frequent visitors in the late season and Orca sightings are also common.
Drake Passage
As you leave this magical place and make our way north, heading again across the Antarctic Convergence and the Drake Passage, you will continue with onboard presentations and wildlife spotting. Sailing back to Ushuaia through the Beagle Channel, you will celebrate the conclusion of our expedition with a special slideshow.
Disembark in Ushuaia / Return Home
Morning disembarkation lets you catch a flight to Buenos Aires or stay in Ushuaia for more sights and adventure.
Popular Ways to Customize This Itinerary
Visit our sister company Vaya Adventures for pre or post trip land packages across South America. Popular destinations for Antarctica travelers include Argentina & Chile. Click here to see all of our South America destinations that can be done with an Antarctica cruise.
Contact us to learn about more options for designing and customizing your trip.
Reviews From This Trip
Why Travel with Vaya?
We've Been There
Our smart and engaging Antarctica specialists all have first hand experience in Antarctica and are skilled in helping people find the right vessel.
Uplifting service
From the first phone call to after you get back, we're here for you every step of the way. We want this to be one of the best travel experiences of your life.
Thoughtful, respectful travel
We are dedicated to working with vessels and local outfitters that practice a low impact, sustainable manner of travel.