Day 1: Ushuaia, Argentina
Antarctica is everything south of the Antarctic convergence, a biological boundary that fluctuates between 50 and 60 degrees South. For some, an expedition to the Southern Continent is not complete unless the Antarctic Circle is crossed. South of that invisible boundary daylight lasts for 24 hours from mid-December to late February. Overnight in Ushuaia.

Day 2: Embarkation Day
Crossing the Circle is the goal of this expedition. So, on some departures, the ship will push south rapidly, from Ushuaia.

Day 3-4: The Drake Passage
The Drake is legendary for its high winds and rolling seas, but you may be lucky and get calm weather. If so, we'll keep you busy on deck, on the Bridge and in the presentation room. We prepare you for boarding Zodiacs, shore landings and, if you dare, polar dips.

Day 5-8: Exploring the Peninsula
The Expedition Team launch the Zodiacs to skim across the water to go ashore, or drift silently while you watch whales fed or penguins jump aboard ice floes.

Every kayaker or camper seeks that one perfect moment that they will relive for the rest of their lives. Perhaps you'll find that moment in Antarctica.

Day 9-10: The Antarctic Circle
Crossing the Antarctic Circle is an impressive achievement, as most expeditions to the Peninsula do not reach 66 degrees 33'S. Celebrate with a well-earned glass of champagne. Toast to the intrepid explorers who have gone before.

Day 11-12: Northbound Along the Peninsula
There's a story behind every name on the map of Antarctica. Many of the French names that appear are the legacy of Jean-Baptiste Charcot, physician, yachtsman, and explorer. He, like you, lived for adventure.

Day 13-15: Drake Passage to Ushuaia
As you cross the Drake once again, you'll have time to adjust to a world where day and night are distinct.

Akademik Sergey Vavilov 2009

The Akademik Sergey Vavilov has an ice-strengthened hull and is powered by a 5,000 kilowatt diesel twin engine which give it a cruising speed in open water of 14.5 knots. Bow and stern thrusters provide maximum maneuverability, while a shallow draft permits passage through channels impassable by larger ships. External stabilizers and a built-in trimming system provide exceptional stability. These combined make the Vavilov quiet, exceptionally stable, and maneuverable.

The cabins are simple, yet comfortable. This is not an opulent ship, but it is well designed for exploration of remote regions. The Vavilov is equipped with Zodiacs for ocean level exploration and kayaks for optional paddling among ice floes.

Ocean Nova

This ship delivers clean, crisp Scandinavian styling and a reputation as an excellent ship in the Antarctic. Built to sail the ice-choked waters of Greenland, Ocean Nova’s ice-strengthened hull has enabled the ship to park in the ice of the Weddell Sea!

The Ocean Nova comfortably accommodates 68 passengers in 37 outside cabins, all featuring private facilities. It features a glass-enclosed observation lounge and presentation room, excursive room, clinic, and an excellent polar-themed library. The Ocean Nova carries a fleet of zodiacs for cruising and shore landings.

Akademik Ioffe

Sister to the Vavilov, the Akademik Ioffe has an ice-strengthened hull and is powered by a 5,000 kilowatt diesel twin engine which give it a cruising speed in open water of 14.5 knots. Bow and stern thrusters provide maximum maneuverability, while a shallow draft permits passage through channels impassable by larger ships. External stabilizers and a built-in trimming system provide exceptional stability. These combined make the Vavilov quiet, exceptionally stable, and maneuverable.

The Ioffe has been refurbished to take passengers in a style that is casual and comfortable. The cabins are simple, yet comfortable. This is not an opulent ship, but it is well designed for exploration of remote regions. The Ioffe is equipped with Zodiacs for ocean level exploration and kayaks for optional paddling among ice floes.