Compare Last Discovered Continent by Poseidon Expeditions vs African Romance by African Travel

Day 1: Ushuaia, Argentina.

Despite its small size, the city of Ushuaia is the world’s southernmost city, the capital of Tierra del Fuego and the main starting point for voyages to Antarctica.

Admire the surrounded views of Beagle Channel and the Andes Mountains. If you arrived early, you may want to visit Tierra del Fuego National Park, the southernmost on the planet. Stroll along the main street of Avenue San Martin, and pause at one of the many cafes, shops or restaurants.

Day 2: Ushuaia, embarkation.

This afternoon, embark the Sea Spirit and set sail down the picturesque Beagle Channel as the sun sets and dinner is served.

The Сaptain and our Expedition Team will welcome you and raise a toast to success of our expedition.

Day 3-4: Crossing the Drake Passage.

The Drake Passage spans 600 miles from the top of South America to the South Shetland Islands. The Sea Spirit’s stabilizer fins will help to make the crossing comfortable.

Lectures and presentations by our friendly team of Antarctic experts prepare us for what lies ahead. At the Antarctic Convergence, watch for sea mammals, albatrosses and petrels in these krill-rich waters. If the Drake has behaved, we will approach the sub-Antarctic South Shetlands during the afternoon of Day 4.

Day 5-6: South Shetland Islands and Antarctic Peninsula.

The Antarctic Peninsula and nearby islands provide exceptional opportunities to discover the unique wildlife and awesome landscapes. Depending on weather and ice conditions, the captain and expedition team will direct the Sea Spirit to a variety of secluded bays and harbors to optimize Zodiac landings and wildlife viewing. While we have a plan, flexibility is the key to successful expedition cruising. With the help of our expedition team, look for the four penguins, six seal and several whale species on your Antarctic checklist. We’ll also find a time for our most adventurous travelers to take a polar plunge, perhaps in Neko Harbor or the relatively warm waters of volcanic Deception Island.

Day 7-10: Antarctic Continent.

As we head south along the Antarctic Peninsula, you’ill understand why the imposing, snow-covered Lemaire Channel is called “Kodak Alley.” We’ll also try to visit a research station during the voyage, although the work schedules of the scientists may not always permit this. At the Ukrainian base of Academician Vernadskiy, you might want to sample the throat-burning gorilka, or Ukrainian pepper vodka, distilled on location. A Zodiac cruise of Paradise Bay, with its many glaciers, offers an experience like no other on the globe. Cruise by massive icebergs, with cracks and crevices reflecting an amazing spectrum of blue colors. Conditions permitting, we’ll set foot on the actual Antarctic Continent at Hope Bay or perhaps another site.

Day 11-12: Drake Passage.

As the Sea Spirit heads back to Ushuaia, there are some final opportunities to ask questions of our Antarctic experts, to share photos and experiences with newfound friends, and to enjoy our festive farewell dinner. Wave goodbye to the birds and whales, until you meet again on your next voyage to the White Continent!

Day 13: Ushuaia, disembarkation.

Disembark following breakfast, and transfer to the airport or the city centre.

Day 1 : Arrive Cape Town, South Africa

Upon your arrival in Cape Town, you’ll be welcomed and assisted every step of the way. Your romantic journey begins as you nestle into your five-star hotel in the heart of one of the world’s most beautiful cities.

Day 2 : Cape Town

Today is at your leisure to soak up the lively blend of history and culture showcased in the "Mother City’s” vibrant neighborhoods. Stroll through the Grand Parade, the country’s oldest public square; browse Greenmarket Square and its local craft market; and visit the galleries and museums along Museum Mile.

Day 3 : Cape Town

Be swept away by the stunning seascapes on your full-day tour of “The Fairest Cape,” and the rugged tip of the Cape Peninsula. View the pristine beaches of Camps Bay, Clifton and Llandudno as you travel to the working harbor of Hout Bay. Here, if time permits, you can join an optional cruise to view Cape fur seals. Hug the cliffs as you snake along legendary Chapman’s Peak Drive on your way to the Cape of Good Hope Nature Reserve. View a colony of penguins at beautiful Boulders Beach and linger over lunch in the picturesque old world charm of Kalk Bay, before returning to your hotel with plenty of time to enjoy Cape Town’s vibrant nightlife.

Day 4 : Cape Town / Franschhoek

Leaving behind the lively city and venture into the bucolic Winelands and Franschhoek Valley. Taste your way through the old town of Stellenbosch on a guided walk and sample classic Cape cuisine at family-owned specialty shops: rusks (biscuits and breads), locally grown teas; biltong and droëwors (cured meats) and sweet treats like koeksisters and Amarula mousse. Continue on to your luxury accommodations in the Huguenot-settled town of Franschhoek, renowned for its lovely scenery, warm hospitality, world class cuisine and fine wines. This evening, stroll into town and browse the shops and cafes as you please.

Day 5 : Franschhoek

With your day at leisure, walk, stroll, taste and shop the town and valley as you like. As an added option, try the narrated Franschhoek Wine Tram tour which allows you to “hop-on and hop-off” at various vineyards, cellar tours, restaurants, shops and wine tasting spots throughout the valley. Tonight, raise your glass to a lavish multi-course dinner at the Tasting Room at Le Quartier Français. Bon appetit!

Day 6 : Franschhoek / KwaZulu-Natal Private Reserve

Returning to Cape Town airport, take flight to Johannesburg and Richards Bay. Upon arrival, your driver will transport you to north KwaZulu-Natal for a most romantic Big Five safari experience in the Thanda Private Game Reserve. Thanda, after all, means ‘love’ in Zulu, and the reserve lovingly unites the power of Zulu culture and romantic amenities with its insightful wildlife viewing. Get into the Thanda mindset as you unwind from your journey in the comforts of your luxury bush villa or relax by the infinity pool. Then, grab your camera and join your knowledgeable rangers for an afternoon game drive in an open safari vehicle. As you explore, learn about Thanda’s intensive efforts to rehabilitate the bush and reintroduce endemic game into the reserve. Tonight, your hosts will delight you with a candle-lit gourmet dinner served on your private viewing deck.

Day 7 : KwaZulu-Natal Private Reserve

Rise early when the lions are most active for a game drive in search of a pride on the move. Zoom in on the rhinos and giraffes as they graze and count off the numerous species of birds taking flight. As the animals retreat in the mid-day heat, perhaps relax with aromatherapy or a massage in your villa. As the day cools off, set off to view the big cats as they begin their hunt, breaking for sundowners as the sky turns pink. After dinner, listen to the calls of the nocturnal animals and lose yourself stargazing beneath the infinite African sky.

Day 8 : KwaZulu-Natal Private Reserve

Your day is full with morning and afternoon wildlife viewing. Take a bushwalk with your ranger to track specific animals or learn more about the many types of flora and fauna. You’ll have the chance to experience Vula Zulu, described as “a living museum” where the Zulu people share their age-old traditions through dancing, drumming and storytelling. Wrap up your soulful safari with a celebration dinner by the roaring fire and watch in wonder as the Milky Way reveals itself.

Day 9 : KwaZulu-Natal Private Reserve / Ponta Mamoli, Mozambique

Greet the dawn for one final game drive and a hearty breakfast before traveling overland across the Kosi Bay border to Mozambique and your chic beach resort. Tucked beyond the dunes on the Lagoon Coast, this laidback “jewel of the Indian Ocean" promises there’s no need to wear shoes. Sip champagne in a cool, horizon-edge pool together, take a stroll under a star-studded sky and experience the intimacy of a candlelit dinner-for-two on a deserted beach. Retreat to your private pool suite where a romantic turndown awaits.

Day 10 : Ponta Mamoli

Spend your morning along pristine waters inhabited by leatherback turtles and playful dolphins, snorkel or paddle over magical coral reefs and horseback ride along coastal trails fragrant with the scent of the ocean. Enjoy sundowners on a secluded beach, while gentle waves cool your feet. Whatever you desire, the friendly Mozambican staff is at your service.

Day 11 : Ponta Mamoli

Another day of rest and relaxation to spend as you please. Take a dip in your own plunge pool, nap on the spacious covered deck, be treated to a soothing couples’ massage. Celebrate your African romance with the finest cuisine Mozambique has to offer.

Day 12 : Ponta Mamoli / Depart

Bid farewell to Africa, taking with you a lifetime of loving memories. Fly back to Maputo for your scheduled flight to Johannesburg and your onward international flight home.