Antarctic Circle Expedition (16D)
Highlights
- Journey beyond 66°33′ South into rarely visited Marguerite Bay, deep within Antarctica’s southern reaches, where few travelers ever set foot.
- Marvel at massive icebergs, bustling penguin colonies, and feeding whales amid pristine wilderness during full days of immersive exploration.
- Join Citizen Science projects and expert-led lectures onboard while partaking in adventurous excursions, from Zodiac landings to kayaking icy channels.
Embark on a once-in-a-lifetime 16-day polar odyssey that begins in the vibrant streets of Buenos Aires and culminates deep in the icy realm of Antarctica, venturing farther south than most ever dream—beyond the legendary Antarctic Circle. Sailing from Ushuaia aboard a hybrid-powered expedition vessel, you’ll cross the infamous Drake Passage and enter an unearthly world sculpted by wind, water, and ancient ice.
Departing in the austral summer, this voyage reveals Antarctica at its most dynamic: wildlife is at its most active, with Humpback and Minke whales in full feeding mode, penguin chicks stretching their wings, and leopard seals on the hunt. Your immersive exploration includes landings and Zodiac cruises through ice-cluttered fjords, visits to penguin-dotted shores, and a rare foray into the seldom-seen Marguerite Bay—a pristine wilderness of towering glaciers and remote islands, accessible only when summer loosens its icy grip.
Onboard, expand your polar knowledge through fascinating lectures, hands-on activities in the Science Center, and Citizen Science projects that let you contribute meaningfully to real research. Whether you’re kayaking through glittering brash ice or soaking in the open-deck hot tubs under the midnight sun, this journey invites both reflection and exhilaration.
Crossing the Antarctic Circle is a remarkable geographic feat—a badge of bold exploration, shared by only a select group of intrepid travelers. This itinerary is perfect for adventurers, nature lovers, and lifelong learners eager to go deeper into Antarctica, both literally and experientially. You’ll return not only changed by the sheer grandeur of it all but also deeply connected to the planet’s most remote frontier.
Standard Activities
About the Antarctic Circle Expedition (16D)
Embark on a once-in-a-lifetime 16-day polar odyssey that begins in the vibrant streets of Buenos Aires and culminates deep in the icy realm of Antarctica, venturing farther south than most ever dream—beyond the legendary Antarctic Circle. Sailing from Ushuaia aboard a hybrid-powered expedition vessel, you’ll cross the infamous Drake Passage and enter an unearthly world sculpted by wind, water, and ancient ice.
Departing in the austral summer, this voyage reveals Antarctica at its most dynamic: wildlife is at its most active, with Humpback and Minke whales in full feeding mode, penguin chicks stretching their wings, and leopard seals on the hunt. Your immersive exploration includes landings and Zodiac cruises through ice-cluttered fjords, visits to penguin-dotted shores, and a rare foray into the seldom-seen Marguerite Bay—a pristine wilderness of towering glaciers and remote islands, accessible only when summer loosens its icy grip.
Onboard, expand your polar knowledge through fascinating lectures, hands-on activities in the Science Center, and Citizen Science projects that let you contribute meaningfully to real research. Whether you’re kayaking through glittering brash ice or soaking in the open-deck hot tubs under the midnight sun, this journey invites both reflection and exhilaration.
Crossing the Antarctic Circle is a remarkable geographic feat—a badge of bold exploration, shared by only a select group of intrepid travelers. This itinerary is perfect for adventurers, nature lovers, and lifelong learners eager to go deeper into Antarctica, both literally and experientially. You’ll return not only changed by the sheer grandeur of it all but also deeply connected to the planet’s most remote frontier.
Itinerary Day to Day
The beat of Buenos Aires
An overnight stay in Buenos Aires is the ideal way to start your Antarctic adventure.
Home to a proud and diverse community of porteños, or ‘people of the port’, this city is a sensuous fusion of faded European splendor and Latin American panache.
There are plenty of places to explore, including many parrillas serving authentic Argentine steak. Or maybe you’d like to practice your dance moves in the famous hometown of the tango.
Setting sail from Ushuaia
Get set for Antarctica
Antarctica: another World
Back through Drake Passage
Ushuaia and Buenos Aires
Route Map
What's Included
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Overnight in Buenos Aires before the expedition cruise, including breakfast.
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Flights in economy class between Buenos Aires and Ushuaia.
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Transfer from the hotel in Buenos Aires to the airport before the expedition cruise.
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Transfers between the Ushuaia airport and the ship, including a brief tour of the town.
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Expedition cruise in a cabin of your choice.
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Daily breakfast, lunch, and dinner
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Wine, beer, and spirits available at meals and throughout the day and evening (subject to licensing laws; excludes premium drinks)
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All day coffee, tea, and soft drinks
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Fine dining in restaurant Lindstrøm included for suite guests
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A complimentary water bottle to refill on board and take home
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Wind and waterproof expedition jacke
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Professional photos from your trip taken by our onboard photographer
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Complimentary Wi-Fi. Please note that streaming is not supported.
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Use of sauna, hot tubs, pool, fitness room, lounges, and more.
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Gratuities included. Fantastic service is standard at HX (though if you’d like to leave something extra, it’s always appreciated).
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Range of included activities .
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In-depth lectures and discussions hosted by our knowledgeable Expedition Team.
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Use of our Science Centre, including the library and advanced biological and geological equipment.
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The Citizen Science Program allows guests to assist with ongoing scientific research.
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An onboard professional photographer will give tips and tricks for taking the best landscape and wildlife photos.
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Informal gatherings with the crew for daily briefings.
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Daily briefing with the Expedition Team about the plans for the next day.
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Escorted landings with small expedition boats.
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Loan of boots, trekking poles, and all equipment for activities Your HX travel documents will have a recommended packing list.
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Expedition photographers on hand to assist you.
What's Excluded
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Mandatory travel insurance.
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International flights.
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Travel protection.
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Baggage handling.
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Optional shore excursions with our local partners.
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Optional small-group activities with our Expedition Team.
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Optional treatments in the onboard wellness and spa area.
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Depending on your flight times, an additional overnight stay might be needed (not included).
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In-Depth Antarctica, Falklands & South Georgia Expedition
South Shetland Islands & Antarctic Peninsula
Antarctica - Basecamp
Antarctic Circle Expedition (18D)
Antarctic Express: Fly The Drake
Spirit of Antarctica
Highlights of Antarctica
Highlights Of The Southern Spring
Antarctica and Falklands Expedition (Southbound)
