This ultimate adventure takes you to the Antarctic peninsula, where you will witness towering glaciers, snow-covered landscapes, immense icebergs and once-in-a-lifetime wildlife viewing. In the footsteps of explorers such as Amundsen, Shackleton and Scott, you will be one of the few to discover the world’s last truly wild frontier. Each day brings new surprises and the opportunity to change plans to maximize wildlife sightings and adapt to ever-changing weather.
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Day 1: Buenos Aires, Argentina
Arrive and check in to your hotel. Buenos Aires, Argentina’s cosmopolitan capital, is an eclectic combination of Latin and European influences. The tree-lined streets and postcolonial architecture draw on the city’s Spanish, French and Italian heritage, while the many cafés and bodegas and vibrant nightlife are decidedly Argentine. Its barrios, or neighborhoods, exude an intimate atmosphere that belies the city’s size. Full of bohemian flair, historic San Telmo’s cobblestone streets and Belle Époque–style buildings reverberate with the mesmerizing melodies of the tango.
Day 2: Ushuaia
Ushuaia is the southernmost city in the world. Its splendid setting,
tucked between the Beagle Channel and the southernmost slopes of the
Andes, lends it an outpost atmosphere, as do the Antarctic explorers
readying for the expeditions that depart from here. Ushuaia is the
capital of and gateway to the celebrated Tierra del Fuego, the “Land of
Fire,” named by Spaniards upon seeing the constant flames burned by the
indigenous Yámana to keep warm. This largely unspoiled region comprises
the large island of Tierra del Fuego and countless Chilean and Argentine
islands.
Day 3: Sail Drake Passage
Named for 16th-century English privateer Sir Francis Drake, the frigid
waters of the Drake Passage stretch for some 600 miles between Cape Horn
and Livingston Island in the South Shetland archipelago. As you sail,
take advantage of the array of delicious cuisine offered on board. You
may visit Mamsen’s, our casual gourmet deli, any time from early morning
to late at night for a taste of traditional Norwegian fare. Or, dine at
Manfredi’s Italian Restaurant for authentic fare with options ranging
from Milanese risotto to Tuscan-inspired classics.
Days 4-10 Explore Antarctica
At once ethereal and majestic, Antarctica has inspired explorers and
adventurers for centuries. In this icy wilderness, marvel at icebergs
glimmering in serene bays and mountains cloaked in white rising from the
mainland basalt cliffs. These stunning landscapes evoke both utter
tranquility as fur seals lounge on a floating sheet of ice, and
breathtaking drama as glaciers thunderously calve into the sea. In these
cold and nutrient-rich waters, humpback, fin and giant blue whales have
been known to greet expedition ships that venture into their habitat.
Day 11: Sail Drake Passage
The Drake Passage has a notorious reputation for being the roughest seas
on Earth. Traversing it required braving massive waves, hurricane-force
winds and icy conditions that tested the mettle of both sailor and
ship. Meet fellow guests and listen to the soothing sounds of classical
music in The Living Room, an ideal setting for relaxation. Enjoy a cup
of coffee or sip on a refreshing cocktail.
Day 12: Scenic Sailing Cape Horn
Rising above the point where the Atlantic and Pacific Oceans converge,
Cape Horn, named for the Dutch city of Hoorn in The Netherlands, is part
of the Hermite Islands archipelago. This remote, stark and treeless
place is often considered the continent’s southernmost point. Soaring
from Hornos Island is an enormous prehistoric-looking massif of Jurassic
volcanic rock. Atop, stands its historic lighthouse near the water’s
edge. A beacon of assurance and safety for countless sailors since 1991,
it is the world’s southernmost traditional-style lighthouse.
Day 13: Ushuaia, Argentina
The “city at the end of the world” is one of the planet’s most
breathtaking destinations; Andean peaks, pristine lakes and boreal
forests create a dramatic backdrop, surrounding this captivating coastal
town. Although Ushuaia lies more than 600 miles north of Antarctica,
the city’s port is still the closest to the “Last Continent” and the
starting point for its exploration. The majesty of Antarctica’s
landscape attracts visitors seeking adventure, with its packed ice
plains, rugged mountains and abundance of wildlife, such as whales,
seals and various species of penguin. Disembark your ship and transfer
to the airport for your charter flight. Bid farewell to your fellow
travelers and journey home.
Please refer to vendor brochure or their website for general information, itineraries and all terms, conditions and responsibility statements. Wi-Fi access may be limited. Applicable AAA benefits apply to first two passengers, are non-transferable, have no cash value if not used, and may not be applied to purchase. Gov’t misc fees/taxes and travel insurance not included. Restrictions and limitations apply. Ask AAA for details. Agency #178-018-521 Job 8247