Compare Antarctic Explorer: Discovering the 7th Continent by Quark Expeditions vs Ushuaia Short Break by Intrepid Travel

Day 1 — Ushuaia, Argentina

With a population of more than 63,000 people, Ushuaia is the southernmost city in the world. The city has grown over the past few years, yet it has retained an easy going and accessible feel. With the sea to the south and mountains to the north, Ushuaia is a spectacular departure point for your Antarctic cruise. If you arrive early, you can spend some time in the nearby Tierra del Fuego National Park, enjoy some Argentinean wines and barbeques in the city, or visit the many boutique shops and cafés before you leave for your expedition to Antarctica.

Day 2 — Embarkation Day

Embarkation will occur in the late afternoon, after which your vessel will sail down the historic Beagle Channel. This famous channel transects the Tierra del Fuego archipelago in the extreme south of South America. Expect an air of excitement as you depart—the next time you see land you’ll be in the world’s most southern continent!

Days 3 and 4 — Crossing the Drake Passage

Prepare yourself for potentially rough water, but hope for a smooth sailing as the Drake is unpredictable and always changing. You’ll spend these first days getting to know your shipmates, while we’ll provide safety briefings and insights into what excitement lies ahead.

Days 5 to 8 — South Shetland Islands and Antarctic Peninsula

When the Antarctic Convergence is left in our wake, you will truly begin your Antarctic adventure. It is perhaps the first sight of land itself that is embraced as the true beginning of any Antarctic expedition.

You can begin to appreciate why this region has long captivated the attention of explorers and travelers alike. Every time we visit Antarctica we witness something new or unexpected, meaning your expedition will be unlike any other—creating a unique, personal experience. We will take Zodiac excursions from the ship to explore bays, channels and landing sites each day. With wildlife always at the forefront of our minds you will visit penguin rookeries, scout for humpback and Minke whales and search for a number of the southern seal species, including the cunning leopard seal.

The majesty of the Peninsula’s mountains will enchant you as you scramble up snowy pathways to vantage points offering you 360° views of your surroundings. One of these in particular, in Orne Harbour, gives the opportunity to visit a chinstrap penguin colony high up on a ridge. Here you’ll have the choice between going for a mountain hike or spending time sitting quietly on a pebbled beach to enjoy the antics of curious penguins. If you’re feeling extra adventurous, participating in the Polar Plunge swim is about as crazy as it gets! Amidst the serene silence of Antarctica, noisy interludes now become indelible memories, such as penguins squabbling over prized pebbles, or the boom and crack of a calving glacier in Neko Harbour.

Every day will be different, having been carefully crafted by your Expedition Team so as to entertain and educate you about this wonderful part of the world.

Days 9 and 10 — Drake Passage to Ushuaia

The journey back across the Drake Passage provides you with some final opportunities to enjoy the crisp Antarctic air. Spend time on the deck watching for seabirds and scouting for whales, enjoy a few final presentations by your Expedition Team or simply relax and reminisce about your experiences.

Day 11 — Disembarkation in Ushuaia

You will arrive in Ushuaia in the morning allowing for you to continue your adventure on land or catch your flights home.

Day 1 Ushuaia

Bienvenidos! Welcome to Ushuaia, Argentina, the world’s southernmost city. While it’s a jumping off point for Antarctic voyages, Ushuaia is a fabulous destination in its own right. With no activities planned for today, you’re free to arrive at any time. If time allows today, you may like to pay a visit to the Museo del Fin del Mundo (End of the World Museum), where you can learn about the region’s history as a hub for explorers and browse historical wildlife exhibits and indigenous artefacts. If you’re after any last-minute essentials before departing, take a stroll down Avenida San Martin. Feeling hungry? There’s no shortage of delicious dishes on offer in Ushuaia, most centred around fresh local ingredients such as king crab, cod, mussels and Patagonian lamb.

Day 2 Tierra del Fuego National Park

Rise early this morning and fuel up for the day’s activities over breakfast. You will be picked up from the lobby between 8 and 8.30am. Drive on to Tierra del Fuego National Park, where you’ll start by stretching your legs and getting to know your beautiful surroundings with a moderate 8km walk along a coastal path. Once you’ve worked up an appetite, stop for a truly special lunch on the banks of the Lapataia River, served in a heated dome tent. Soak up the seriously scenic views and tuck into a hearty lunch made with local ingredients (accompanied by Malbec wine, of course!). After lunch, gear up with rubber boots, waterproof overpants and lifejackets, then hop aboard inflatable canoes and paddle from Lake Acigami along the Lapataia and Ovando rivers until reaching the sea in Lapataia Bay. After an exciting day exploring the national park, you’ll return to Ushuaia in the early evening and be dropped off at your hotel in plenty of time to join the briefing for your Antarctic expedition on the Ocean Endeavour.