Spirit of Antarctica: New Scientist | Douglas Mawson

Upon arrival in Ushuaia, you will be transferred to your pre-voyage hotel. If you're already in Ushuaia, please make your own way to the hotel. Check-in will start in the afternoon and the team will provide details about embarkation, answer questions, and offer information about dining options and last-minute shopping. The rest of the day is free for you to enjoy.

After breakfast and check-out this morning, you can spend the day at leisure and then meet at the hotel lobby or designated parking lot to be transferred to the pier for embarkation.

Once onboard, settle into your cabin before attending mandatory briefings. As the ship departs, join fellow expeditioners on deck to enjoy stunning views of Ushuaia and Tierra del Fuego. The evening includes a welcome dinner to kick off the exciting Antarctic adventure.

Explore the onboard gym, wellness center, and well-stocked library. Your expedition team will present various talks on Antarctica's history, wildlife, and environment to enhance your journey. You'll also be invited attend important briefings on biosecurity, wildlife-watching guidelines, and Zodiac safety to prepare for your first landing in Antarctica.

On day four, excitement builds as you approach the South Shetland Islands and the Antarctic Peninsula. Everyone will gather on the observation decks to catch their first glimpse of an iceberg. Now south of the Antarctic Convergence, the ocean takes on a new character, surrounded by penguins and towering icebergs. The memory of spotting your first iceberg will likely stay with you forever.

Arriving in Antarctica is an indescribable experience — Spotting your first iceberg and breathing in the fresh, crisp air will leave a lasting impression. Once we arrive, the western Antarctic Peninsula and South Shetland Islands offer many exciting exploration opportunities. With 18-24 hours of daylight, you can choose how active or relaxed you want your days to be.

Your expert expedition team, with extensive experience in the region, will tailor your voyage based on weather, ice conditions, and wildlife sightings. Activities include Zodiac safaris to explore coves, glaciers, and wildlife, and guided hikes on pristine beaches.

Bundle up for Zodiac cruises through ice cliffs and grounded icebergs, watching for whales, seals, and penguins. Zodiacs will also transport you to land for visits to penguin rookeries, historic huts, and scenic spots along the peninsula.

On shore, you’ll have the chance to explore beaches, hike snow-covered ridgelines, and take in panoramic mountain and ocean views.

In addition to Zodiac excursions, we may cruise through dramatic straits or scenic bays to observe whales and other wildlife. The observation lounge and bridge offer stunning views of Antarctica's beauty. You may even hear the rumble of glaciers carving into the sea, creating a moment of awe in this pristine landscape.

Educational presentations on polar science, wildlife, history, photography, and more will be held throughout the voyage. These lectures aim to engage and educate while deepening your connection to the planet. Your expedition crew will provide commentary and introductions to the phenomena you’ll encounter.

You can also participate in a citizen science program, helping collect valuable data to support global research. A citizen science coordinator will assist with projects that contribute to protecting the planet. For a deeper understanding, visit the Citizen Science Centre, which offers one of the best views on the ship.

Overall, the expedition is flexible, allowing you to choose your level of involvement with activities, talks, and excursions—none of which are mandatory.

On the final morning, we aim to enjoy a last landing in the South Shetland Islands before we head back through the Drake Passage towards South America.

While completing lectures and film presentations about Antarctica, you'll still have plenty of time to appreciate the Southern Ocean and its wildlife. This is a time for reflection and discussion about the incredible experiences you've had. We hope you'll share your journey with others, becoming advocates for the conservation and preservation of Antarctica, so that future generations can visit and experience its wonders.

In the early morning, we cruise through the Beagle Channel, arriving quietly in Ushuaia. Bid farewell to your expedition team and fellow travellers as we each continue our journeys, likely with a deeper appreciation for the power of nature.

Note: It’s advised not to book flights departing Ushuaia before 12:00 pm to avoid potential delays.