Seeking excitement and a true expedition experience? This unique adventure has no set itinerary, allowing the rhythms of the sea, ice, and wildlife to guide the journey.
Travelers will embark on a voyage aboard the purpose-built, ice-class expedition vessels, Ocean Victory and Ocean Albatros, designed to bring them closer to nature. With a fleet of Zodiac landing craft, a team of experienced expedition guides, and the stunning Antarctic Peninsula as the ultimate destination, this journey promises an unparalleled exploration of Earth’s last frontier.
Departing from Ushuaia, Argentina’s southernmost city, the voyage crosses the mighty Drake Passage en route southward. The unique X-Bow design of the expedition vessels ensures exceptional stability at sea, providing a smoother ride across some of the world’s most challenging waters. With enhanced speed, these vessels maximize time in Antarctica, offering an extraordinary exploration experience.
Continuing southward from the South Shetland Islands, the expedition ventures deeper into the inlets and bays of the Antarctic Peninsula, passing through the famous Gerlache Strait, where towering ice cliffs and dramatic peaks rise from frigid waters. Icebergs, glaciers, and rugged snowfields define this breathtaking landscape. The experienced Captain and Expedition Leader work diligently to seize every opportunity for exploration. While wind, sea, and ice conditions dictate the exact itinerary, guests will enjoy Zodiac landings, stepping onto the continent to visit penguin rookeries, research stations, and historical sites. Scenic Zodiac cruises offer encounters with colossal icebergs, whales, and seals, while onboard, the expert Expedition Team delivers informative lectures to enrich the experience.
From the Antarctic Peninsula, the journey continues southward toward the Antarctic Circle at 66°33′ South—a milestone that has eluded many explorers throughout history. In this extreme latitude, the sun circles the vessel without fully setting, offering an unforgettable spectacle. Without a fixed itinerary, the expedition remains flexible, allowing wildlife sightings and weather conditions to determine the exact route. Penguin colonies, whale encounters, and stunning landscapes shape the voyage, ensuring each day brings new wonders. With an additional day to explore compared to the Classic Antarctic voyages, guests have even more time to immerse themselves in the White Continent’s beauty.
Unlike ordinary vessels that are restricted by dense pack ice, Ocean Victory and Ocean Albatros boast PC6/1A ice ratings, allowing access to areas off-limits to most ships. With an average capacity of 175 guests per voyage, this expedition offers an intimate and exclusive experience for the adventurous few.
Unsure if this The Ultimate Antarctica Experience – Quest for the Circle itinerary is right for you? See our Antarctica destination overview for full details on seasonality, routes, ship selection, pricing, expedition inclusions and how North South Voyages can help make your Antarctica dream become reality.
