Embark on an immersive expedition cruise dedicated to the awe-inspiring frozen continent of Antarctica. Witness massive glaciers and icebergs on this extraordinary journey. Navigate dynamic icescapes aboard our hybrid-powered ship and experience the grandeur of nature. Our Expedition Team will guide you through ice-cruising and landing activities, bringing you closer to the breath-taking environment. Exploring the pristine, otherworldly continent of Antarctica is a once-in-a-lifetime dream for many. Crossing the Drake Passage to reach this final frontier—where the sun glistens on sculpted ice and wildlife reigns supreme—is a life-changing experience.
Starting at
£8625
Starting at £8625
As the sea below you transforms into a vivid crystal blue and the first towering icebergs slowly come into view, you might wonder if you’ve arrived on another planet. Here, you’ll breathe the freshest air on Earth.
You’ll gaze up at the clearest skies you’ve ever seen and sink into the most profound silence you’ve ever heard. Icebergs, glaciers, volcanoes, and vast expanses of pure white snow offer a stunning display of natural beauty like never before. Beneath this initial impression of unparalleled tranquillity lies a lively world.
You’ll be charmed by waddling penguins as they nonchalantly inspect you before diving elegantly into the water. You’ll observe families of seals basking on rocks, soaking up the sunshine between dives. You might even wake to the sight of humpback whales breaching right outside your cabin window. You’ll also have the opportunity to learn more about these captivating creatures and their habitats. Join our expert expedition team for wildlife spotting, attend onboard lectures delivered by local researchers, and participate in citizen science projects during your time with us.
Feel the Rhythm of Bustling 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 splendour 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.
Want more time in Buenos Aires? Why not join an optional pre-expedition programme.
Setting off at the Bottom of the World
Your adventure begins with an early morning flight to Ushuaia, where you’ll meet our hybrid-powered expedition ship, specially designed for sustainable cruising in polar waters. This bustling port is the capital of Argentina’s Tierra del Fuego Province. Set against the magnificent backdrop of the Martial Glacier, Ushuaia vies for the title of the world’s southernmost city. After a briefing from your Expedition Team, you’ll have time to locate your cabin and explore the comforts and amenities on board.
Cross the Drake Passage
On the two-day crossing through the Drake Passage, the Expedition Team will equip you with all you need to make the most of your polar expedition. Visit the onboard Science Center and find out what lies ahead. Listen to experts talk passionately about Antarctica’s history, the science beneath the ice, and the impact of climate change and plastic pollution. You’ll learn how to make your visit as safe and as low-impact as possible, and about the Citizen Science projects you can join. There’s plenty of time to relax, so unwind in the spa and wellness area, enjoy some delicious cuisine, and meet fellow travellers in the Explorer Lounge & Bar.
Experience Antarctica in All Its Natural Majesty
Nothing prepares you for your first sight of Antarctica’s immense, frozen beauty. Surrounded by looming glaciers and icebergs the size of floating cathedrals, Antarctica will fill you with wonder. Perhaps the most surprising part of Antarctica is the silence. It’s a stillness that’s broken every so often by the locals – the wildlife.
Whales begin to arrive in greater numbers by December and January. This is also when the first penguin chicks hatch, and seeing the clumsy clumps of feathers run around is always a charming sight. February and March offer peak whale-watching opportunities, when large amounts of krill lure them to the area. Here, nature is king, and we are mere observers. Our experienced Captain will continually monitor conditions to create the best possible itinerary for your adventure. Rest assured, each day will offer something different and thrilling. You’ll join the Expedition Team on landings and ice-cruises and may even get a chance to go kayaking among the icebergs.
Back on board, the Expedition Team will continue their lectures, helping you grow in your insights of the frozen continent. Over five magical days, you’ll experience this amazing world in a way that will stay with you for a lifetime.
Heading Back North Across the Drake Passage
After five incredible days, you’ll have experienced so much in Antarctica. Your head will likely be filled with a swirling kaleidoscope of special memories and impressions. The next couple of days will be a chance to reflect on your adventure to the seventh continent.
As your mind tries to conjure up the magical Antarctic scenery, now could be a good time to sift through your photos and videos to recapture a sense of its magnitude. Why not take the chance to unwind in the sauna, or enjoy a few relaxing spa treatments in the wellness area?
From Ushuaia to Buenos Aires
Your expedition cruise ends in Ushuaia, the main city in Tierra del Fuego, Argentina’s southernmost province. From here, you’ll take a flight back to Buenos Aires, but it doesn’t have to be the end of your adventure.
Why not join an optional post-programme before heading home?
At Arctic Direct, we create luxury Arctic holidays that go beyond the ordinary. From staying in a glass igloo under the Northern Lights to sledding across frozen landscapes with a team of huskies, our packages include flights, premium accommodations, and unforgettable activities. With expert planning, financial protection, and 24/7 support, you can book with complete confidence.
Book with total confidence knowing your Arctic adventure is fully protected under ATOL and ABTA, guaranteeing financial security and peace of mind from start to finish.
With years of expertise, our Arctic specialists design bespoke itineraries, from polar bear tracking to glass igloo stays, ensuring every journey is personalised to your travel style.
Our packages cover flights, premium accommodations, and unforgettable Arctic experiences like husky sledding and Northern Lights tours, so you know exactly what you're paying for - no hidden surprises.
With exceptional Feefo reviews and a long-standing reputation for quality, we’re a trusted leader in luxury Arctic travel, delivering unforgettable experiences to thousands of satisfied adventurers.
Secure your dream Arctic getaway with low deposits and interest-free monthly payments, making luxury travel more accessible while giving you full control over your budget.
Enjoy round-the-clock assistance from our dedicated team, ensuring a smooth and stress-free experience, whether you're chasing the Northern Lights or exploring remote Arctic landscapes.
Whether you’re seeking a heart-pumping adventure, a peaceful retreat, or a truly unique Arctic experience, we have the perfect journey waiting for you. Chase the Northern Lights from the warmth of a cosy glass igloo, embark on an exhilarating husky sledding expedition across snow-dusted trails, or spend the night in a one-of-a-kind ice hotel surrounded by pristine ice sculptures. Every itinerary is carefully crafted to immerse you in the enchanting beauty of the Arctic, offering everything from luxurious retreats to family-friendly explorations.
At Arctic Direct, we specialise in unforgettable Arctic experiences, offering tailor-made holidays across Sweden, Finland, Norway, Greenland, and beyond. With expertly crafted itineraries, premium accommodations, and seamless service, we ensure your journey is truly extraordinary.
