Note: This cruise begins in Punta Arenas and ends in Ushuaia.

Ever since Captain Cook crossed the Antarctic Circle in 1773, Latitude 66°33’ S has beckoned explorers and adventurers. Even today, our champagne toast as we cross the line depends on the weather and ice gods. It’s worth every effort, as this voyage takes us to such magnificent sites along the southwest Antarctic Peninsula, as Crystal Sound and the Gullet. Our scuba divers may explore new sites while we visit penguin rookeries and other wildlife spectacles of the Antarctic summer.

“Cruising past the Antarctic circle, it's easy to see how difficult conditions were for early explorers. Our comfortable ship Polar Pioneer and its experienced crew travels without a rigid timetable, setting course based on a combination of conditions, passenger's interests and our famous enthusiasm for discovering new places.”

Gary Miller - Expedition Leader

Our actual program will vary to take best advantage of local conditions, spontaneous opportunities and wildlife. No two voyages are the same; there is always an element of the unexpected.

Today we board our flight in Punta Arenas. On arrival to King George Island we will be transferred to the port to board our ship, Polar Pioneer.

Our biologists reveal Antarctica’s natural history, while environmental and safety briefings prepare us for our adventure ahead. We make full use of daylight hours, taking every opportunity to explore the Peninsula’s wonders. Our expert guides will lead us ashore as kayakers paddle amongst the ice, and, if the weather permits, anyone with the desire to camp out. Zodiac cruises, whale watching and a continental landing are on our wish list; flexibility is the key. We may visit scientific stations and historic sites, but our focus is close encounters with nature.

Bidding goodbye to Antarctica, we return to the realm of the albatross as we cross Drake Passage. It’s a time of photo-sharing, reflection, entertaining talks and maybe even a party or two.

Dawn greets us in the Beagle Channel. We enjoy an early breakfast before disembarking in Ushuaia.