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Extended Antarctic Circle Crossing – Small Ship Cruise

Extended Antarctic Circle Crossing – Small Ship Cruise

From USD $18,795

Description

Venturing far south toward the Antarctic Circle is always one of our most popular voyages, so on this itinerary, we’ve added an extra day – more time to immerse yourself in this magical part of the world. On our journey south along the Antarctic Peninsula, you can expect to encounter some of Antarctica’s most engaging full-time residents – humpback and orca whales, seals, and, of course, a variety of those always-entertaining penguins. The farther south we go, the more pristine the environment becomes, with the ultimate goal of reaching 66°33’S and joining the small band of Antarctic explorers who can claim they have made it this far south.

Trip Name
Extended Antarctic Circle Crossing - Small Ship Cruise
Days
14
Overview
Vessel Type: Expedition Ship Length: 108 metres Passenger Capacity: 140 Built / Refurbished: 1989 / 2023 / 2026 Discoverer is a boutique expedition ship purpose-built for exploring the polar regions, combining genuine expedition capability with a high level of comfort and personalised service. Carrying just 140 guests, the vessel offers an intimate atmosphere that allows for flexible shore landings, meaningful wildlife encounters, and access to remote destinations beyond the reach of larger ships. With an Ice Class 1A rating, expansive outdoor viewing areas, and a wrap-around deck designed for wildlife observation and photography, Discoverer is ideally equipped for immersive exploration in some of the world's most spectacular environments. Recently refurbished, the ship features stylish outward-facing accommodation, many with private balconies or Juliet balconies, alongside inviting public spaces that create a relaxed boutique feel. Guests can unwind in the panoramic Observation Lounge, outdoor Jacuzzis, sauna, steam room, fitness centre, or wellness area after a day of adventure. Onboard amenities also include a lecture theatre, library, restaurant, bar, outdoor grill, and expedition facilities, while expert-led presentations, Zodiac excursions, and an experienced expedition team ensure every voyage is both enriching and unforgettable.

Itinerary



Day 1 - Day 1: Arrive and Explore in Ushuaia
After a friendly welcome at the airport, we'll transfer you to one of our partnered premium hotel resorts nestled in the breathtaking Patagonian nature, where you can take some time to unwind or go explore the southernmost city in the world, Ushuaia.Our optional evening briefing is your opportunity to ask questions and meet some of your fellow explorers.
Day 2 - Day 2: All Aboard!
Spend your morning relaxing at the hotel, visiting a museum, or exploring the shops in Ushuaia, before our mid-afternoon escort to the ship. Our Expedition Team and ship staff will welcome you on board and get you settled in, followed by a safety and orientation briefing and our Captain’s welcome dinner. We’re on our way to Antarctica!
Day 3 - Days 3–4: Drake Passage
Join our Polar Experts as they share their vast knowledge of Antarctica, from its enchanting wildlife to its bold history. Participate in our pioneering Citizen Science program or sit back and take in this fabled journey while catching glimpses of rarely seen wildlife. Keep your binoculars handy to identify the many seabirds that escort our ship as we cross the Antarctic Convergence into Antarctica’s waters and noticeably cooler temperatures.
Day 4 - Day 5: South Shetland Islands
Over time, the volcanic activity of the South Shetland Islands has created a geology unlike any other. Here, you can expect a spectacular display of mountains, glaciers, and wildlife, including Chinstrap and Gentoo penguins, and it’s not uncommon to share the water’s edge with Elephant and Fur seals. Whales are often spotted as well. So, we’ll settle into our Zodiacs and kayaks and spend most of our day exploring. Whether on land or sea, in Zodiac or kayak, be prepared for a fully immersive introduction to this incomparable part of the world.
Day 5 - Days 6–9: Achieving the Antarctic Circle
We venture west along the Antarctic Peninsula into the Gerlache Strait region, exploring a variety of sites highlighting the area’s staggering natural beauty. Iconic experiences await on our twice-daily excursions. From Zodiac cruises into Paradise Bay to witnessing penguins nesting on Cuverville Island, each potential stop promises awe-inspiring encounters. We’ll explore historic huts at Damoy Point, keep an eye out for humpback whales in Wilhelmina Bay, and continue south until we reach the crown jewel of this expedition, the jaw-dropping scenery through the Lemaire Channel. Weather permitting, we’ll cross the Antarctic Circle at 66°33’S, an achievement that will put you in rare company.
Day 6 - Day 10–11: South Shetland Islands
This archipelago represents the northernmost tip of Antarctica, standing proud against the relentless force of the Southern Ocean. The ice-capped peaks of Livingstone, Greenwich, and King George Islands offer a stunning backdrop to explore. And despite the furious elements, the islands boast a remarkable richness of wildlife, with numerous colonies of Gentoo and Chinstrap Penguins dotting the island shores, accompanied by an array of formidable seabirds like the predatory Giant Petrels. Weather permitting, we’ll explore the eerie landscape of Deception Island, an active volcanic crater with black steaming sands and rusting ruins, and immerse ourselves in the history of Yankee Harbour, once a vital anchorage for sealers.
Day 7 - Days 12–13: Drake Passage
We leave this magical place and make our way north, once again heading across the Antarctic Convergence and the Drake Passage. We have one last hurrah as we celebrate the conclusion of our expedition with a special slideshow and a final meal together.
Day 8 - Day 14: Ushuaia Disembarkation
With huge smiles on weary, content faces, we disembark in the morning, letting you catch a flight to Buenos Aires or stay in Ushuaia for more sights and adventure.
Day 9 - Please note:
Itineraries are subject to change. 

Trip Dates

StartEndPrice FromRoom Type
28-12-202610-01-2027USD $18,795Porthole Stateroom
28-12-202610-01-2027USD $21,695Ocean Stateroom
28-12-202610-01-2027USD $21,895Vista Stateroom
28-12-202610-01-2027USD $23,795Balcony Stateroom
28-12-202610-01-2027USD $25,995Navigator Stateroom
28-12-202610-01-2027USD $29,795Owner's Suite
28-12-202610-01-2027USD $32,495Solo Vista Stateroom
28-12-202610-01-2027USD $32,495Grand Suite

Inclusions

    • Journey deep into the Antarctic Peninsula and aim to cross the Antarctic Circle at 66°33′S, with extra time to explore this remote polar wilderness.
    • Encounter Antarctica’s iconic wildlife, including humpback and orca whales, seals, Gentoo and Chinstrap penguins, and abundant seabirds.
    • Explore spectacular Antarctic landscapes by Zodiac and kayak, from Paradise Bay and Lemaire Channel to the volcanic South Shetland Islands and Deception Island.

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