Hurtigruten Expeditions Iconic Antarctica - The Explorer's Route

16-day itinerary

Day 1: Beginning in Buenos Aires

What better way to start your Antarctic expedition than with an overnight stay in Buenos Aires: Argentina’s bustling capital city.

A city steeped in rich cultural history, intertwining both European and Latin American influences; Buenos Aires is a city with plenty to explore.

Whether you would like to indulge in the sumptuous local cuisines, practice your dance moves in the famous hometown of tango, or take in the city’s robust nightlife – the possibilities are plentiful!

If you wish to traverse the wonders of Buenos Aires in greater depth, there are many pre-programme packages which offer option to fully experience the beauty of the sun-kissed port city. Alternatively, why not arrive a few days earlier to see what this vibrant city has to offer?

Day 2: Set sail from Ushuaia

Flying south to Ushuaia where you’ll board your ship

Often described as being the “End of the world”, due to being South America’s southernmost city, your exciting expedition will commence with an early morning flight to the spectacular resort town of Ushuaia, located on Argentina’s southern coast.

This is where we’ll meet your hybrid-powered expedition ship, specially designed for sustainable cruising in polar waters. With the magnificent backdrop of the Martial glacier, Ushuaia vies for the title of the world’s most southernmost city.

Take advantage of the excellent amenities and comforts onboard while you settle in on the vessel, with Antarctica’s natural beauty still yet to come.

Day 3-4: Get ready for Antarctica

Take advantage of the excellent onboard Science centre facilities before embarking on your Antarctic adventure

To experience the best out of the Polar expedition cruise, the on-board expedition team will ensure you are equipped with everything you need during the two-day crossing through the Drake Passage.

Prepare to revel in the region’s natural beauty by visiting the onboard Science centre.  Here, you can find out exactly what lies ahead: the Science behind the ice,  the impact of Climate change and plastic pollution, as well as intriguing talks with experts surrounding the history of Earth’s southernmost and least populated continent.

Fancy some time to kick-back and unwind before the journey? If so, experience the fantastic spa and wellness facilities, enjoy some locally sourced cuisines and encounter some fellow travellers at the Explorer lounge and bar.

Day 5-13: Antarctica: Out of this world

Experience the remote majesty and beauty of the frozen continent

No preparation could prime you for this. Entrenched by stunning glaciers and titanic icebergs; Antarctica’s wondrous landscape will take your breath away.

A bird enthusiasts utopia, Antarctica is home to a plethora of native seabirds including Petrels, Skuas, Cormorants and Terns, who patrol the crystal blue skies above. Large groups of penguins huddle on the ice floes, at all times wary of the cunning leopard seals that hunt them. Majestic, migrating whales glide among amazing icebergs, searching for the shoals of krill they feed on.

Here, mother nature reigns supreme, and we are simply observers. You will be spending a total of 9 days exploring several of the many possible landing sites, with our assurances that each day will offer something different and thrilling.

Whenever the opportunity arises, you will be able to join the expedition team on landings and ice cruises – even kayaking among the icebergs if you are offered the chance. You will also have the opportunity to take part in activities such as hiking, snowshoeing, and may even be able to go camping overnight, fully immersing yourself in the other-worldly conditions. Some possible landing destinations include:

South Shetland Islands: 20-island archipelago which is home to strikingly beautiful landscapes and an abundance of wildlife.

Antarctic Sound: A lesser-visited gem in the region, Antarctic Sound serves as a grand gateway to the Weddell Sea and is home to some of the largest tabular icebergs.

The Weddell Sea:  Visitors to this harshly beautiful environment gain a vivid sense of Shackleton’s extraordinary feats. Here, you might also see Emperor Penguins migrating to or from the nearby colony at Snow Hill Island. 

Gerlache Strait: A centrepiece of Antarctic exploration, the Gerlache Strait, offers sheltered waterways ideal for up-close encounters with some of the continent’s most iconic sights.

The Penola Strait (South of the Lemaire Channel): The Penola Strait, accessed via the breathtaking Lemaire Channel – often hailed as the world’s most picturesque channel – offers a spectacular maze of penguin-covered islands set against the massive glacier-clad peaks of the continental shoreline. 

Day 14-15: Back through Drake passage

Following the 9 days of exhilarating exploration, and after having taken in the wonders and wildlife Antarctica has to offer, your expedition cruise journey nears its conclusion. The return trip to Ushuaia offers time for reflection and relaxation – taking in the final scenery before the end of your journey.

Delve into more areas of interest with the expedition team at the onboard Science centre, contributing your observations to Citizen Science projects. Relax and recuperate in the Spa and wellness facilities or take in the fresh sea air from the on-deck hot-tubs. Share your experiences with your fellow passengers at the Explorer lounge and bar, reminiscing on your journey over a refreshing beverage.

Day 16: Ushuaia and Buenos Aires

Ushuaia, the main city in Argentina’s Tierra Del Fuego, will be the final destination on your expedition cruise. After disembarking the cruise ship, you will then be flying to Buenos Aires to conclude your holiday.

MS Roald Amundsen