Antarctica Cruise: In Search of Emperor Penguins

Embarkation & Beagle Channel Navigation

In the evening, you will embark in Ushuaia, the southernmost city in Argentine Patagonia. As your Antarctic cruise begins, you will set sail along the Beagle Channel, leaving behind the last views of the Andes.

From the deck, enjoy the surrounding landscapes of mountains and remote islands, where wildlife such as cormorants and fur seals can often be spotted. Along the way, you may also see the iconic Les Éclaireurs Lighthouse, one of Ushuaia’s most recognizable landmarks.

This first navigation marks the beginning of your journey toward Antarctica.

Drake Passage – Navigation to Antarctica

Experience one of the most iconic sea crossings in the world as you navigate the Drake Passage, the stretch of ocean separating South America from the Antarctic Peninsula.

As you sail through these remote waters, you will follow the route of early explorers, surrounded by vast open seas and ever-changing conditions. Keep watch for marine wildlife along the way—seabirds, dolphins, and, if conditions allow, even whales can often be spotted in their natural habitat.

This crossing marks the transition into Antarctic waters and the beginning of your expedition.

Entering Antarctic Waters

As you continue navigating the Drake Passage, the surroundings begin to change, signaling your approach to Antarctica. The first signs of the White Continent appear through shifting light, colder air, and an increasing presence of wildlife.

Seabirds, including a wide variety of albatross, become more frequent, often gliding alongside the vessel. These sightings, along with the evolving seascape, mark your arrival into Antarctic waters and the beginning of a new stage of your expedition.

Antarctic Sound – First Navigation in Antarctica

At last, you arrive in Antarctica. As you enter the Antarctic Sound, the first snow-covered peaks and vast ice formations of the Antarctic Peninsula come into view.

Sailing along the eastern side of the peninsula, you will begin to encounter pack ice near areas such as Hope Bay and Paulet Island—an environment that will shape your explorations over the coming days.

From here, daily excursions set out to discover the region’s wildlife, including the chance to spot Emperor penguins. Depending on conditions, you may explore by Zodiac or take scenic helicopter flights for a broader perspective of this remote and striking landscape.

Snow Hill – Emperor Penguins & Scenic Flights

A landing at Snow Hill, home to one of the few Emperor penguin colonies in the region, is entirely dependent on weather and ice conditions. If access is possible, you may reach the site either by helicopter or, in rare cases, on foot.

A helicopter excursion typically lasts a full day and is shared with a small group. Upon landing at a designated area—carefully chosen to avoid disturbing the wildlife—you will continue on foot for approximately 45 minutes across uneven terrain to approach the colony.

If conditions do not allow for a Snow Hill landing, alternative helicopter experiences are available. These may include scenic flights over remote and rarely visited areas such as Seymour Island, Duse Bay, or the western side of the Antarctic Sound. From above, you will witness dramatic landscapes of icebergs, volcanic formations, rugged peaks, and dense pack ice—offering a unique perspective of this remote region.

Snow Hill or Scenic Flight to Duse Bay & Marambio Island

If weather conditions allow, you may attempt a landing at Snow Hill—either as a second opportunity or as your first chance to visit the Emperor penguin colony.

As an alternative, you can choose a helicopter excursion to explore other remarkable sites in the region. One option is Marambio Island (also known as Seymour Island), where you will discover sedimentary formations and remains linked to the 1901 Swedish Antarctic Expedition led by Otto Nordenskjöld and Captain Carl Anton Larsen. Today, the island is home to Base Marambio, one of Antarctica’s key research stations and among the first to feature an airstrip.

Another option is a flight to Duse Bay, a remote area first explored in the early 20th century. Here, you may land near a shelter and explore on foot, surrounded by vast snowfields and contrasting rocky slopes. On the western side, you can also spot the Cristo Redentor Refuge, operated by the Argentine Antarctic program.

Each alternative offers a different perspective on Antarctica’s landscapes, history, and exploration heritage.

Weddell Sea – Zodiac Explorations

Today, you will explore the Weddell Sea by Zodiac, navigating through some of the region’s most remote and striking landscapes. Depending on weather and ice conditions, there may be an opportunity to venture deeper into this seldom-visited area.

One possible excursion is to Brown Bluff, known for its large Adélie penguin colony, along with sightings of gentoo penguins and snow petrels. The surrounding scenery combines volcanic formations with dramatic cliffs and ice-covered terrain.

Another option is a landing on Gourdin Island, home to colonies of Adélie, chinstrap, and gentoo penguins, offering excellent opportunities for wildlife observation. You may also approach Esperanza Base, one of the few Antarctic stations with a permanent population.

Each activity provides a closer look at the wildlife and landscapes that define the Weddell Sea.

Deception Island – Final Landing & Return

Leaving the Antarctic Sound behind, you will begin your journey back to Ushuaia. Crossing the Bransfield Strait, you will reach Deception Island—your final landing in Antarctica.

Here, you may go ashore at Pendulum Cove or Whalers Bay, where volcanic ash beaches and dramatic landscapes create a unique setting. You will also see the remains of Presidente Pedro Aguirre Cerda Base, a former Chilean research station dedicated to volcanology and meteorology, later destroyed by volcanic eruptions and now preserved as a historic site.

After exploring the island, you will return to the vessel and continue toward the Drake Passage. The time spent ashore will depend on weather conditions, which play a key role in this final stage of your expedition.

Drake Passage – Return to Ushuaia

Sail back across the Drake Passage on your journey to Ushuaia. While the route may feel familiar, it offers new moments to enjoy at sea. Keep an eye on the horizon—whales are often seen surfacing in these cold waters.

Over the next two days, take time to relax on board, reflect on your Antarctic adventure, and enjoy the comfort of the ship as you make your way back to South America.

Last Day at Sea – Drake Passage

Enjoy your final day crossing the Drake Passage as you make your way back to Ushuaia.

Take in the last views of the open sea, relax on board, and reflect on your Antarctic journey as you prepare for disembarkation.

Disembarkation in Ushuaia & End of Expedition

Today, you will disembark in Ushuaia, marking the end of your Antarctic expedition and your journey in search of Emperor penguins.

We specialize in tailor-made travel experiences and a wide range of Antarctic cruises. If you would like to adjust this itinerary or explore other options, our travel experts will be happy to help you design a trip that fits your interests, timing, and budget.