Wild South Atlantic & Antarctica - 29 Days | Venture

The harbour of Rio de Janeiro, cradled by the southern contours of Guanabara Bay under the majestic shadows of Corcovado and Sugarloaf mountains, is one of the world's most unique and awe-inspiring ports. As you approach by sea, Sugarloaf Mountain is your welcoming beacon, inviting you to experience the exhilarating cable-car ride to its summit for a panoramic view of the city and its famed beaches: Copacabana, Tijuca, Ipanema, and Leblon.

Rio de Janeiro vibrates with the rhythm and vitality of its renowned Carnavál Sambadrome parades, regardless of when you choose to visit. The city enjoys UNESCO World Heritage status, recognized as the 'Carioca Landscapes, Between the Mountain and the Sea.' Your exploration of Rio wouldn't be complete without visiting certain landmarks: the ascent to Sugarloaf, the lush Tijuca Rainforest Park, the towering Christ the Redeemer statue on Corcovado, and for football aficionados, the legendary Maracanä Stadium.

*Please note: Cruise itinerary is subject to change depending on weather conditions, ice conditions and other factors.

The tiny harbor town of Parati (Paraty) is a colonial-era charmer, overlooking a protected bay along Brazil’s Costa Verde, “the Green Coast.” Founded by the Portuguese in 1597, Parati flourished as a transportation hub during the 17th and 18th centuries after gold was discovered in the state of Minas Gerais. The port was all but forgotten after Brazil declared its independence in 1822; today, its time-warp Old Town — designated a UNESCO World Heritage site in 2019 — the largest concentration of colonial architecture in the country. Spend some time wandering its pedestrianized cobblestone streets, admiring the elegant churches and whitewashed buildings with colorful trim. Forte Defensor Perpétuo — in the 18th century to protect the town from pirates — features a small museum and mesmerizing views. The historic Caminho do Ouro or Gold Trail is a 1,200-mile-long thoroughfare laid by slaves that connected Minas Gerais with neighboring states; you can follow a stretch from Parati through lush Atlantic rainforest in Serra da Bocaina National Park, stopping at a series of waterfalls and freshwater pools.

Spend the next days at sea indulging in the ship's amenities. Take this opportunity to relax and make acquaintances with your fellow travelers.

Tucked between Brazil and Argentina, the Republic of Uruguay decidedly holds its own with unique traditions and identity. Despite being South America's second smallest nation, Uruguay feels like a vibrant city enveloped by expansive ranchlands. Often dubbed as the 'Switzerland of South America,' Montevideo mirrors Switzerland's discreet banking system.

INCLUDED SHORE EXCURSIONS:
OPTION 1: Montevideo Highlights & Tango Experience
Immerse yourself in the beauty of Montevideo on a scenic drive. Witness historic landmarks and monuments, then visit the Mercado Agricola, a bustling farmer's market teeming with local charm. End your day with a stirring tango performance at Baar Fun Fun, a venue steeped in over 80 years of history.

OPTION 2: Montevideo Old Town Walk & Tango Show
Explore the architectural wonders of Montevideo on foot. Discover the eclectic mix of styles in the city, then experience the passion of Uruguayan dance at Baar Fun Fun.

*Activities are subject to change depending on availability.

Make the most of the upcoming two days at sea by contemplating the horizon and immersing yourself in the vast depths of the ocean. Prepare for the exciting adventure ahead as we approach the Falkland Islands, renowned for their diverse wildlife.

The Falkland Islands are a world unto themselves. This remote archipelago are wind-swept and bathed in stunning natural beauty, magnificent wildlife, and are home to a gregarious mix of people. More than 200 islands dot the waters around the two mainlands of East and West Falkland, presenting landscapes that are breathtakingly pure and stark, yet vibrantly detailed. Here, the shores are devoid of trees but teem with an impressive variety of bird species including albatross, penguins, caracaras, and geese.

The Islands are also steeped in maritime and military history, with over three hundred shipwrecks scattered along their coasts. The serene white crosses marking the final resting places of British and Argentine soldiers serve as silent testaments to the war of 1982. Through the course of their history, many have laid claim to these islands, but today, they stand proud as a self-governing British Overseas Territory.

In Stanley, the extraordinary wildlife of the Falklands is always close at hand. Dolphins often dance at its harbor, while steamer ducks, kelp gulls, and other birds thrive on its shores. Southern sea lions bask in the sun, and Southern giant petrels glide through town, seemingly unfazed by human activity. Established in the 1840s, Stanley was named after Edward Smith-Stanley, Earl of Derby, who never actually set foot on these islands.

In the upcoming days at sea, take advantage of the ship's amenities as you delve into studying the geography and wildlife of the region. Prepare yourself for the exciting exploration of the remarkable South Georgia Islands.

The South Georgia Islands Group is one of the least visited destinations on earth. It consists of South Georgia Island and smaller surrounding islands and rocks. Largely untouched and blessed with a sub-Antarctic climate and nutrient-rich seas, it represents a sort of Lost Eden of unspoiled wildlife habitat. Although ice and snow are present, they are strikingly green with vegetation as compared with Antarctica. They teem with wildlife, including massive populations of king and other penguin species, fur seals, elephant seals, albatrosses, giant petrels, and other seabirds. Whales, orcas and dolphins abound offshore in the most diverse marine ecosystem on earth. Your captain and expedition leader plan your days in South Georgia to offer you a variety of experiences in this remote and enchanting destination, based on conditions and wildlife reports. These will certainly include visits to historic communities such as Grytviken, with its memorial to Ernest Shackleton, the immense breeding colony of king penguins on the Salisbury Plain and other highlights, along with less well-known, but equally unforgettable sites. Your veteran expedition team members enrich your experience during presentations and in casual conversations and interpret passing sights during time spent cruising. They will also accompany you on landings at the various sites and excursions in zodiacs and kayaks.

Prepare yourself for the upcoming journey across the renowned Drake Passage en route to the Antarctic continent.

Your captain and the skilled expedition team will plan your exploration and adventure in Antarctica based on weather, ice conditions, and reported wildlife distribution during the expedition. This adaptable approach guarantees that you can maximize the benefits of favorable conditions, enriching your experience as you uncover the awe-inspiring landscapes and distinctive wildlife of this pristine continent.

During the return across the Drake Passage, seize a last opportunity to appreciate the refreshing Southern Ocean air. Utilize time on deck to observe seabirds and search for whales, partake in informative presentations by your Expedition Team, and commemorate the unique experiences shared while exploring the remarkable world of Antarctica.

After an exhilarating cruise amidst the pristine surroundings of the South Atlantic islands and Antarctica, disembark in Ushuaia and proceed to the airport for your return flight to Buenos Aires.