9 Night Cruise sailing from Ushuaia to King George Island aboard Polar Pioneer.

Soaring snow-capped peaks, sheltered waterways, sculpted icebergs glowing blue from within and a riot of wildlife characterise the spectacular Antarctic Peninsula. An explosion of life celebrates the coming of the sun: penguin rookeries bustle with nest building, courtship and egg laying; flourishing plankton attracts krill, fish, seals and whales. The midnight sun powers all with life and energy.

We explore the deep bays and fjords, where massive glaciers flank a rugged spine of snowy mountains. Scattered amongst penguin rookeries and basking seals, reminders of early explorers help bring history to life. We visit working scientific stations, which open the door to fascinating research.

Detailed Itinerary:

NOTE: This cruise sails from Ushuaia and back to King George Island, with an onward flight to Punta Arenas, Chile.

Day 1

Enjoy a hearty, late afternoon welcome from our friendly staff and Russian crew. You have time to settle in to your cabin and explore the ship before our evening departure. Watch for dolphins and albatross as we sail down the Beagle Channel.

Day 2

Our Drake Passage crossing offers excellent birdwatching from the outer decks or the warmth of the bridge. Learn about Antarctica from our expert naturalist's informative talks, and about safety and environmental guidelines from expedition staff. We have time to meet fellow travellers, chat, read and prepare for the days ahead.

Day 3

If the Drake Passage is kind, we should make our first landing today. Keen eyes watch for icebergs, while sightings of penguins, fur seals and king cormorants announce our approach to the South Shetlands Islands.

Days 4-9

An overnight passage along Gerlache Strait delivers us to the stunning Antarctic Peninsula, an ethereal wonderland of vast proportions. Aboard robust Zodiacs, we explore penguin rookeries, historic sites and scientific stations. Zodiac cruising brings us close to intricately shaped icebergs and seals basking on ice floes. Dwarfed by massive bergs, kayakers glide into secluded bays, while our photography group learns how best to capture Antarctica's raw beauty. We focus on immersing ourselves in nature, spontaneity and flexibility enhancing our enjoyment. Bubble-netting humpbacks demand a wake-up call, even at midnight! A curious leopard seal cruising amongst spectacular icebergs may mean postponing lunch. We make the most of every day.

Day 10- Disembark King George Island