group of penguins with a blue iceberg bay
Antarctica view from above. Snow, glaciers and ocean. South Pole

Polar Circle Quest

From

US$13,140 per person

  • Dates

    Feb

  • Duration

    12 Days

  • Embark

    Ushuaia, Tierra del Fuego Province, Argentina

  • Disembark

    Ushuaia, Tierra del Fuego Province, Argentina

Routes

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  • Depart

Route Information

Embark: Ushuaia, Argentina

Disembark: Ushuaia, Argentina

Destinations: South Shetland Islands, Antarctic Peninsula, Lemaire Channel & the Antarctic Circle

Ships: St Helena

Duration: 12 days

Day-by-day itinerary

Day 1 Embark Ushuaia

Your Antarctic journey begins in Ushuaia, the world’s southernmost city. In the afternoon, step aboard your expedition vessel, settle into your cabin, and meet the guides and fellow adventurers who will share the voyage with you. As the ship sails down the Beagle Channel, enjoy your first views of rugged Patagonian peaks and watch them disappear from view.

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Days 2 - 3 Crossing the Drake Passage

The adventure truly starts as you head across the Drake Passage, where the waters of the Atlantic and Pacific meet the Southern Ocean. This dynamic stretch of sea is rich in nutrients and home to an abundance of seabirds and marine life.

During the crossing, take in expert presentations on polar wildlife, geology, and exploration history. Out on deck, watch for soaring albatross, darting petrels, or perhaps the blow of a whale. Adventure briefings prepare you for optional activities such as kayaking or snowshoeing. By the third evening, the first glistening icebergs announce your approach to Antarctica.

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Days 4 - 9 The Antarctic Peninsula & Circle Crossing

For the next several days, immerse yourself in the untamed wilderness of Antarctica. No two voyages are ever the same—each day’s plan adapts to weather and ice conditions, ensuring maximum exploration and discovery.

Adventure Highlights:

Kayaking: Paddle through serene, icy waters, surrounded by sculpted icebergs, curious seals, and diving penguins.
Snowshoeing: Trek across snowy ridges and glacial terrains to reach stunning viewpoints.
Zodiac Cruises: Navigate ice-filled waters for close-up views of wildlife and ice formations.

Scenic Waterways:
Sail through some of Antarctica’s most iconic passages, such as the Gerlache Strait, Errera Channel, and Lemaire Channel, often referred to as the “Kodak Gap” for its spectacular scenery.

With over 500 diverse landing sites along the Antarctic Peninsula, no two voyages are ever the same. Our expert team crafts each expedition based on conditions, weather, and opportunities for the most remarkable encounters. As passenger vessel traffic has increased in recent years, competition for landing sites has intensified—but our deep knowledge of this pristine region ensures you’ll embark on true exploratory journeys, venturing beyond the crowds.

Guided by our experienced crew, you’ll navigate breathtaking ice-choked channels, witness towering glaciers, and encounter extraordinary wildlife in one of the most remote places on Earth. This is not just a cruise—it’s a genuine expedition where spontaneity and discovery define every day.

Join us for an adventure where the unknown awaits, and every landing is a moment of exploration.

Wildlife enthusiasts will be thrilled by close encounters with Adélie, Gentoo, and Chinstrap Penguins, as well as crabeater, Weddell, and leopard seals. Keep an eye out for Minke, humpback, and orca whales feeding in the nutrient-rich waters. This journey sets the compass south, aiming for the elusive Polar Circle – a true expedition for explorers.

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Day 10 - 11 Crossing the Drake Passage - Northbound

The return voyage across the Drake offers time to absorb the experience, exchange stories, and enjoy the final lectures or workshops. Keep your binoculars handy—seabirds and whales are often spotted in these waters. A farewell dinner rounds out the celebration of your adventure.

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Day 12 Disembark in Ushuaia

In the early morning, the ship arrives in Ushuaia. After breakfast, disembark with a wealth of new memories, photographs, and stories from one of the most extraordinary journeys on Earth.

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Activities

    Kayaking

    Kayaking in Antarctica offers an intimate way to explore pristine coves and channels, gliding past icebergs and wildlife like seals, penguins, and whales. Book early to secure your stop.

    Snowshoeing

    With snowshoes fitted, venture across soft snowfields and gentle slopes, reaching remote areas that are otherwise inaccessible on foot.

    Dates & rates

    Pricing is in USD per person twin share. Triple and Quad share pricing also available, contact us for details.

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    • Dates

      Feb 14 – Feb 25, 2027

    • Embark / Disembark

      Ushuaia / Ushuaia

    • Ship

      St Helena

    • From price (per person, twin share)
      US$13,140

    What's included

    Inclusions

    Leadership throughout the voyage by an experienced Expedition Team, including shore landings, presentations and other activities. Kayaking, snowshoeing, camping, yoga (subject to weather and operational conditions)
    Shipboard accommodation in your chosen room with private facilities.
    All meals aboard, snacks, tea, coffee, house beer, soft drinks and wine during pre-dinner hours.
    Waterproof expedition boots to borrow for landings and Zodiac cruising.
    Basic Complimentary Wi-Fi.
    Crew tips/gratuities

    Exclusions

    Personal expenses such as bar and boutique charges. Final payments must be made in cash (US dollars or Euro).
    Any excursions not listed in the itinerary.
    alcoholic beverages outside happy hour/dinner time.

    Contact us

    Ready for the adventure of a lifetime?

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