Christmas in Antarctica

• Day 1 - Ushuaia; Embarkation Day

  Enjoy a warm, late afternoon welcome from our friendly expedition team and Russian crew. You'll have time to settle into your cabin and explore the ship before our evening departure. Excitement lifts as we lift anchor and set sail down the Beagle Channel, keeping watch for Magellanic penguins, dolphins and albatross. Please note: We recommend you arrive into Ushuaia at least one day prior to your departure start date to avoid issues with flight and luggage delays. A luggage transfer from your Ushuaia hotel to ship is included today. Ushuaia port is a short walking distance from your town; you are required to make your own way to port in time for boarding this afternoon.

• Day 2/3 - Drake Passage

  Fall in love with gliding albatross or the heroics of tiny storm petrels as we cross the Drake Passage. Outer decks and our warm bridge offer excellent bird watching and our naturalist’s informative talks, safety and environmental guidelines prepare us for our Antarctic landings. We have time to meet fellow travellers, relax and prepare for the days ahead. Keen eyes watch for icebergs, and the appearance of penguins and seals in the waters around us herald our first landing in the South Shetland Islands.

• Day 4/9 - Antarctica Peninsula

  If weather permits, early risers are rewarded with spectacular views of ice-clad mountains along the Danco Coast, then soaring Anvers Island as we reach the Antarctic Peninsula. Over the next six days we explore penguin rookeries, historic sites and scientific stations and celebrate Christmas with our expedition 'family' in one of the most beautiful places on Earth. In Zodiacs, we cruise amongst an iceberg fantasia, where seals bask on floes and our kayakers glide into secluded bays. Off the ship is where we like to be, even camping out one night if conditions allow. Thanks to the small number of people on board, spontaneity and flexibility is possible, enhanced enjoyment the result.

• Day 10/11 - Drake Passage

  As the Captain steers the ship north across Drake Passage, our minds and souls revel in rich Antarctic experiences. There’s time to watch for seabirds, enjoy entertaining talks, discuss what we’ve seen and learned, exchange photos and stories. With luck, we may make a ceremonial rounding of Cape Horn before sharing a farewell dinner with our newfound friends.

• Day 12 - Punta Arenas; Disembarkation

  Dawn greets us in the Beagle Channel. After breakfast, we disembark for a tour of Puerto Williams before boarding our flight to Punta Arenas. Additional Information: On arrival in Punta Arenas a transfer is included to Aurora Expeditions preferred hotel. It is advised that you overnight in Punta Arenas, but not mandatory.

Please consider that our voyages are expeditionary in nature. This means, that there are no concrete itineraries, your Captain and Expedition Leader will utilise their vast experience to chart the best course for your expedition depending on the climatic and environmental conditions. Mentioned highlights and wildlife cannot be guaranteed.