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

A friendly welcome aboard Polar Pioneer at 4 p.m. precedes our evening sail down the Beagle Channel.

Cape Horn, the most southerly point of the American continent, has stimulated the imagination of mankind since Sir Francis Drake inadvertently rounded it back in 1580. Some of us will approach this historic crossing with more than a little trepidation but despite its reputation, there are times when the Drake resembles a lake, with lazy southern ocean swells rolling under the keel. On the other hand sometimes we have encountered rough crossings with large waves. The size of the waves and the force of the gale will take on gigantic proportions when related around the fire back home.

The Polar Pioneer is not a luxury ship, she is homely and strong, built to be a working vessel and refurbished to comfortable passenger standard. The mood on board is definitely casual. At sea we are totally self sufficient. The days flow by whilst we travel snugly in our cocoon. A favourite pastime on board is to stand at the stern watching the many seabirds, including majestic albatrosses and giant petrels following our wake. They will rise and fall skilfully, using the air currents created by the ship to gain momentum. Feeling transformed, we approach Antarctica, receptive and open.

During our crossing of Drake Passage, we will commence our lecture program about the wildlife, geology, history and geography of the Antarctic Peninsula. We will be given guidelines for approaching wildlife and we'll talk about the implications of the Antarctic Treaty. Antarctica is a photographers' paradise, for the professional or the amateur. There will be discussions about how to protect your equipment from salt water and tips for taking good pictures.

Excitement reaches fever pitch as we wait for the sight of our first iceberg. We near the tip of the Peninsula towards the end of day three, everyone will be on the bridge watching for our first iceberg. The ocean takes on a whole new perspective once we are surrounded by the surreal presence of floating ice sculptures. The memory of the sight of your first iceberg is likely to remain with you for ever.

We make full use of daylight hours, taking every opportunity to explore the Peninsula’s wonders. Our expert guides will lead climbers up peaks, paddlers 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 head for King George Island. It’s a time of photo-sharing, reflection, entertaining talks and maybe even a party or two.

Dawn greets us at King George Island. We enjoy an early breakfast before being transferred to the airport for our flight back to Punta Arenas.