Antarctica – Patagonia Expedition

12 Days / 11 Nights
Buenos Aires, Ushuaia, Drake Passage, Antarctic Peninsula

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Prepare for the adventure of a lifetime as you explore the infinite riches and natural beauty of the Antarctic Peninsula. Nature takes center stage and unique experiences abound as you hike through penguin colonies, search for pods of whales navigating the waters around you, and share a toast with fellow Adventurers as you glide past glaciers and ice floes. Plus, you’ll kick off your journey to the Antarctic Peninsula with explorations of the diverse landscapes and rich culture of Patagonia, also known as the “End of the World.”

Trip Highlights Include:

Daily Zodiac Excursions & Landings
Experience unique, up-close encounters with ice bergs and local wildlife as you cruise the waters around Antarctica.
Wildlife Sightings
From orcas to penguins to fur seals, keep an eye out for the local wildlife—at least 235 marine species—that call Antarctica home.
Patagonia & Tierra del Fuego
Spend 2 adventure-filled days exploring this lush and vibrant region at the “End of the World.”
Drake Passage
Complete a true seafaring rite of passage as you cross this body of water that can, at times, be challenging.
Harberton Settlement
Step back in time on your visit to this working estancia and explore its nature reserve and historic museums.

Expedition Daily Itinerary

Day One – Arrive in Buenos Aires

Arrive in Buenos Aires

¡Bienvenidos a Buenos Aires! From the moment you arrive in the Argentine capital city, you’ll be immersed in the sights and sounds of a truly magical destination. Known as the birthplace of the Tango, Buenos Aires exudes passion that creates an intoxicating setting. Although rooted in a rich culture, the modern metropolis is at the center of a vibrant urban art and music scene and is the style center for Latin America.

Transfer from Ezeiza International Airport to Hotel

Enjoy the comfortable ride from the airport to your hotel, where you’ll check in and meet your Adventure Guides at the Adventures by Disney hospitality desk in the lobby. Then set out to explore the city on your own.

Lunch & Dinner On Your Own

Work up an appetite as you explore the wonderful sights of Buenos Aires. Savor the scintillating flavors of the region as you explore the many restaurants and cafés throughout the city. You can also ask your Adventure Guides to recommend some of their favorite dining spots.

Meals Included: None

Day Two – Fly to Ushuaia, Argentina, End of the World Train, Tierra del Fuego National Park, End of the World Post Office

Breakfast at the Hotel

Enjoy a breakfast before your flight to Ushuaia.

Transfer from Hotel to Aeroparque Jorge Newbery for Flight to Ushuaia Airport

Take a coach to Aeroparque Jorge Newbery (AEP) for your internal flight to Ushuaia Airport (USH).

Arrive in Ushuaia

Welcome to the capital of Tierra del Fuego. Enjoy exploring the lush landscape of this lovely city that sits between the Andes Mountains and the Beagle Channel—named after the boat on which Charles Darwin visited the area in 1833.

Morning & Afternoon Activities:

Guests will experience all of the different elements at various times throughout the day. Grouping and timing will provided by your Adventure Guides in destination.

Tierra del Fuego National Park

Set against a backdrop of majestic mountains and glacier valleys, Tierra del Fuego National Park encompasses 160,000 acres of stunning natural landscapes that range from lush forests, crystal clear lakes, rugged mountains and beautiful shorelines.

End of the World Train

Ride the rails of the world’s southernmost functioning railway on a private ride just for you and your fellow Adventurers. This former prison train now takes passengers on a unique ride through the stunning Patagonia landscape and includes a stop at the historic La Macarena Station.

End of the World Post Office & Nature Walk

Stroll through the dramatic scenery that makes up Tierra del Fuego National Park. Marvel at the magnificent bodies of water, lush forests and majestic mountains found in this magical place.

When you come to the end of the road, you’ll have the opportunity to send friends and family back home a postcard with a coveted postmark from one of the most remote places on Earth—the Post Office at the End of the World. The small shanty, built on stilts and constructed of corrugated metal and wooden piles is the southernmost post office in the world.

Lunch in the Tierra del Fuego National Park

Enjoy a taste of local flavors at a restaurant located in the Tierra del Fuego National Park. Adventurers will dine in a semi-private dining area with views of the lake. Following lunch, you can also visit the gift shop.

Arrive at the Ship & Explore

Settle into your stateroom, then head out to explore the ship—your home for the next 10 nights—and its amazing features, which include:

Two restaurants, each with a distinct atmosphere that offer an array of delicious dishes that are sure to please all appetites
A heated, saltwater pool
Spa & Fitness Center
Common areas that provide cozy and relaxing spaces to meet up and socialize, plus a special area for Junior Adventurers to meet up and hang out
And much more to discover!

Shipboard Welcome & Orientation

Gather on board the ship with your fellow adventurers for a welcome orientation where you’ll learn about the amazing Expedition Cruise that awaits.

Dinner on the Ship

Dine at leisure at either of 2 onboard restaurant options that will satisfy any appetite.

Entertainment on the Ship

Enjoy a variety of nightly entertainment on board the ship.

Ushuaia Evening Walk/Pub Crawl (Optional)

Guests looking for more exploration are invited to head into Ushuaia at their leisure for a fun-filled evening strolling the shop and restaurant-lined streets of this charming resort town. You can also sample a variety of local craft beers on an included, at leisure, pub crawl to visit some of the town's signature pubs.

Please note: You must be 21 years of age or older to participate in the pub crawl.

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner

Day Three – Catamaran through the Beagle Channel, Harberton Settlement Tour, Husky Kennel Visit & Nature Walk, Evening Sail Away Party

Breakfast on the Ship

Enjoy a hearty breakfast before heading out for a day of adventure in Ushuaia.

Full Day of Excursions & Lunch

Prior to departure, Guests will be able to choose from any of the following options:

Option A: Catamaran Excursion with Harberton Settlement Tour & Lunch at the Settlement Restaurant

Option B: Husky Kennel Visit, Harberton Settlement & Catamaran Excursion with Lunch on the Catamaran

Option C: Harberton Settlement & Catamaran Excursion with Lunch on the Catamaran

Option D: On Your Own Time & Lunch in Ushuaia or on Ship

Husky Kennel Visit

Enjoy a lovely nature walk on the kennel grounds and have an opportunity to play with the husky pups while learning about their importance in this region.

Harberton Settlement

Learn about life at the southernmost tip of South America at the Harberton Settlement, a former mission founded in 1886 by British missionary Thomas Bridges, set amid rolling green hills and the snow-capped Andes mountains. While at Harberton Settlement, you’ll explore the historic sheep-shearing and wooden boat museums, marine mammal museum and enjoy a nature walk through their private nature reserve.

Catamaran Sail

Head out to sea for a 3 hour private motorized catamaran tour of the Beagle Channel. Be on the lookout for sea lions and an array of birds and penguin colonies between the Harberton Settlement and Ushuaia.

Please note: Some activities have limited capacity and are on a first come, first served basis. Final inclusions and lunch locations are subject to change

Sail Away Party

Bid Argentina a fond adios, as you and your fellow Adventurers depart Ushuaia via the Beagle Channel and sail into open water of the Drake Passage.

Dinner on the Ship

Dine at leisure in one of the 2 restaurants on board the ship where you’ll find something to satisfy all appetites.

Entertainment on the Ship

Enjoy a variety of nightly entertainment on board the ship.

Please note: Activities may vary and will be confirmed at the Adventure Awaits daily update in the theater, as well as in the daily shipboard program.

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner

Day Four – Drake Passage Crossing, Presentation by a Disney Expert

Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner on the Ship

Enjoy delicious meals at leisure on board the ship as you make your way across the Drake Passage on your journey to Antarctica.

Crossing the Drake Passage

Crossing the Drake Passage is a rite of passage for any seafaring adventurer. Depending on the current weather and sea conditions, the voyage can be rough, calm or somewhere in between. During the crossing, sea sickness is possible and medication is highly recommended.

During the 2-day crossing, onboard activities and gatherings for Adventures by Disney Guests will be planned, however, they are subject to change depending on weather and sea conditions, which may also change throughout the crossing.

Onboard Activities Include:

Prepare the Gear: Ensure that you—and your gear—are ready for your trip to Antarctica.
Meet the Naturalists: Get to know the experts who will guide your explorations of the pristine beauty and diverse wildlife of this unique polar destination.
- For the December sailing, meet Disney special Guest, Dr. Mark Penning, Vice President: Animals, Science and Environment for Disney Parks, Experiences and Product.
- For the January sailing, a Disney photographer will be on board.
Ship Tour & Bridge Visit: Get to know the ship—your home at sea—including a visit to the bridge, where you’ll learn how the captain and crew navigate the waters around the Antarctic Peninsula.
Wildlife Viewing: Have fun spotting the many different species of animals that call Antarctica home.
Photography Tips and Tricks: Learn the ins & outs of how to capture amazing photographs and memories of your adventure.
Fitness Class/Spa Appointments: Shape up or power down as you take advantage of a host of fitness classes and an array of soothing spa treatments.
Iceberg Spotting Contest: Play lookout and see if you can be the first to spot an iceberg in the waters around you.
“I Survived the Drake Passage Party”: Celebrate a true aquatic rite of passage—your successful crossing of the Drake Passage!

Exploration Preparation Sessions

Make sure you’re prepared for your adventure in Antarctica with these preparation sessions:

Parka & Boot Distribution: Adventurers receive their parkas, which they can take home with them. Boots, if you are borrowing them, will also be distributed.
IAATO & Zodiac Briefing: Learn about the organization which oversees environmentally responsible travel to Antarctica. You’ll also get familiar with the Zodiac boats that you will take on your land excursions.
Decontamination Session: In our efforts to maintain the integrity of Antarctica’s pristine, fragile ecosystem and in accordance with IAATO guidelines, it is mandatory that all visitors to Antarctica decontaminate their outer clothing layer on the first day at sea. Guests will learn how to vacuum their own clothing—especially Velcro—as well as learn about Boot Decontamination Baths and Boot Scrubbings, which are mandatory before and after each land excursion.

Evening Activities on the Ship

There’s always a fun evening activity on board. Junior Adventurers can take in Disney Movie Night. Adults can try their hand at cocktail making. And there is always something for the whole family, like Trivia Night.

Please note: Activities may vary and will be confirmed at the Adventure Awaits daily update in the theater, as well as in the daily shipboard program.

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner

Day Five – Drake Passage Crossing, Presentation by a Disney Expert

Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner on the Ship

Enjoy delicious meals at leisure on board the ship as you make your way across the Drake Passage on your journey to Antarctica.

Continue Crossing the Drake Passage

Participate in exploration preparation sessions and take advantage of all of the onboard amenities and activites available to you. Or, relax in your stateroom and get ready for what lies ahead – ANTARCTICA!

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner

Day Six – Zodiac Cruise: Glacial Waters with Seals & Whales, Landings: Hilltop Hike, Penguin Colony Walk, Kayaking Experience (Optional)

EVERY DAY IS A UNIQUE ADVENTURE

It is important to note that spontaneity is key on your Antarctica & Patagonia Expedition Cruise. Nature takes center stage on this expedition as ice and weather conditions will determine how the Captain and Expedition Leader plan the day’s excursions—which means that every day is a new adventure offering unique opportunities to explore this pristine natural environment and the wildlife that inhabits it.

Daily itineraries will be shared during the previous evening’s Adventure Awaits program in the theater, as well as in the daily program that is distributed each night.

Please note: Excursions and activities may change due to ice and weather conditions. Your Adventure Guides will keep you updated on any changes.

DAILY EXCURSIONS

Each day will ideally feature 2 excursions, pending weather conditions—morning and afternoon. The fluid schedule allows us to experience “nature in the moment,” as once-in-lifetime moments unfold before you.

Some possible excursions include:

Zodiac Wildlife Lookout: Ride across the glacial waters in search of local wildlife—penguins often swim and dive alongside the boat, or marvel at the sheer power of an Orca as it breaches the water’s surface.
Zodiac Cruise to Antarctic Peninsula: Board a Zodiac boat and cruise across the water to a place few have gone before—Antarctica! Step foot on the 7th continent and explore this terrain that is unlike any place on Earth.
Hilltop Hike: Experience breathtaking panoramic views of Antarctica’s natural beauty.
Penguin Colony Walk: Walk along paths through penguin colonies where you’ll observe their nesting rituals or watch as they teach their newborns survival skills.
Iceberg Observation: Get an up-close look at a massive, towering iceberg.

PREMIUM KAYAKING EXCURSION ADD-ON

For Guests that want a unique adventure that offers the opportunity for an up-close experience with wildlife and icebergs, a premium kayaking excursion add-on is the perfect opportunity. For an additional fee, this extremely popular activity with a very limited capacity offers a new and different opportunity to experience local wildlife and the magnificent landscapes of Antarctica.

SHIPBOARD ACTIVITIES

Onboard activities offer fun and informative entertainment for guests of all ages—including special activities for our Junior Adventurers, as well as some Adult-Only activities. Activities may include:

Wildlife Viewing: Gather on deck as you cruise the sea in search of wildlife in their natural habitat. Keep an eye out for penguins, orcas, seals and more.
Adventure Prep with the Naturalists: Get a deeper understanding of Antarctica through special presentations and workshops with the experts who will guide your explorations of the pristine beauty and fascinating wildlife of this amazing destination.
Photography Tips and Tricks: Learn the ins & outs of how to capture amazing photographs and memories of your adventure.
Ship Tour & Bridge Visit: Get to know the ship—your home at sea—including a visit to the bridge, where you’ll learn how the captain and crew navigate the waters around the Antarctic Peninsula.
Whale Tales: Hosted by your Adventure Guides, you’ll hear all kinds of fun stories and you can even put your whale-speak to the test in the “I Speak Whale” contest.
Fitness Classes: Get your blood pumping as you energize your mind, body and soul with some fabulous fitness classes.
Spa Appointments: Pamper yourself with a variety of luxurious spa treatments offered in our onboard spa.
Tea Time with Music & Games: Head to the lounge for a relaxing afternoon tea as you play fun games with your fellow Adventurers.
Pool Party: Soak up some fun at a pool party on deck where you can take a dip in the heated pool while you watch icebergs float by.
Trivia Contest: Put your knowledge to test as you go head-to-head with other Adventures in a fun-filled trivia contest.
Disney Movie Night: Watch some of your favorite Disney movies in the theater. There will also be special Junior Adventure movie nights.
Talent Show: You’re the star as you showcase your talents to the delight of the other guests.

Please note: Activities may vary and will be confirmed in the daily shipboard program

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner

Day Seven – Zodiac Cruise: Glacial Waters with Seals & Whales, Landings: Hilltop Hike, Penguin Colony Walk, Kayaking Experience (Optional)

Morning Excursion

Pending ice and weather conditions, embark on your first excursion of the day. This morning, you might embark on a Zodiac cruise, zigzagging through ice floes and taking in the breathtaking hues of the ice.

Once back on the ship, take part in your choice of onboard activities. For example, you and your family might take part in a photography workshop to hone your skills to capture the perfect photo of a humpback whale.

Afternoon Excursion

Pending ice and weather conditions embark on your second excursion of the day. After getting on your gear, you might cruise to shore on a Zodiac boat for an afternoon hike through a penguin colony.

Upon returning, enjoy more of the ship’s amenities. You may choose to take a dip in the heated pool as you watch the sea birds soar above.

Evening Activities on the Ship

There’s always a fun evening activity on board. Junior Adventurers can take in Disney Movie Night. Adults can try their hand at cocktail making. And there is always something for the whole family, like Trivia Night.

Please note: Activities may vary and will be confirmed at the Adventure Awaits daily update in the theater, as well as in the daily shipboard program.

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner

Day Eight – Zodiac Cruise: Glacial Waters with Seals & Whales, Landings: Hilltop Hike, Penguin Colony Walk, Kayaking Experience (Optional)

Morning Excursion

Pending ice and weather conditions embark on your first excursion of the day. Today may be your day to see a seal catch a fish! Keep your camera ready to capture all of the incredible wildlife you will witness.

After the morning excursion, relax on board. Junior Adventurers might join the Whale Tales session while you treat yourself to the spa.

Afternoon Excursion

Pending ice and weather conditions embark on your second excursion of the day. See if you can spot all 5 species of penguins who call Antarctica home as you explore Antarctica on foot.

Once you return to the ship for the afternoon you might check out Tea Time & Games in the lounge to mingle with other fellow Adventurers or go listen to a talk on local wildlife by a naturalist.

Evening Activities on the Ship

There’s always a fun evening activity on board. Junior Adventurers can take in Disney Movie Night. Adults can try their hand at cocktail making. And there is always something for the whole family, like Trivia Night.

Please note: Activities may vary and will be confirmed at the Adventure Awaits daily update in the theater, as well as in the daily shipboard program.

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner

Day Nine – Zodiac Cruise: Glacial Waters with Seals & Whales, Landings: Hilltop Hike, Penguin Colony Walk, Kayaking Experience (Optional)

Morning Excursion

Pending ice and weather conditions embark on your final morning excursion. If you purchased the premium kayak offering, this will be the final day you can book and confirm for a memorable paddle between the ice blue glaciers, snapping up-close images of leopard seals in their natural habitat that you will treasure forever.

Upon returning to the ship, relax in the observation lounge with your journal and a cup of hot chocolate.

Afternoon Excursion

Pending ice and weather conditions embark on your final excursion in Antarctica. Take a final Zodiac cruise along the shore. Keep your eye out for whales breaching and penguins diving. Bask in the final moments in this breathtaking, farflung paradise.

Upon returning to the ship join in on the fun happening on the pool deck as the pool party gets going.

Set Sail for Ushuaia

Bid farewell to Antarctica as you begin the journey back to South America.

Evening Activities on the Ship

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner

Day Ten – Drake Passage Crossing

Crossing the Drake Passage

Crossing the Drake Passage is an adventure unto itself. Depending on the current weather and sea conditions, the voyage can be rough, calm or somewhere in between. During the crossing, sea sickness is possible and medication is highly recommended.

During the 2-day crossing, onboard activities and gatherings for Adventures by Disney Guests will be planned, however, they are subject to change depending on weather and sea conditions, which may also change throughout the crossing.

Daily Onboard Activities Throughout the Day May Include:

Adventure Recaps: Attend fascinating and immersive presentations led by naturalists as you recap your amazing adventure to Antarctica.
Wildlife Viewing: Have fun spotting the many different species of animals that call Antarctica home before you give a final farewell to the continent.
Photo Swap & Email Exchange: Swap photos, email addresses and social media handles with your new friends that you and your family have made during your adventure so you can keep in touch after you get home.
Fitness Class/Spa Appointments: Take advantage of a host of fitness classes and an array of soothing spa treatments.

Continue Crossing the Drake Passage

Take advantage of all of the onboard amenities and activites made available to you, or relax in your stateroom and reflect on your incredible journey.

Evening Activities on the Ship

Meals Included: Breakfast and Lunch

Day Eleven – Drake Passage Crossing

Continue Crossing the Drake Passage

Take advantage of all of the onboard amenities and activites made available to you, or relax in your stateroom and reflect on your incredible journey.

Daily Onboard Activities

Gather with your family and friends for one last afternoon together to play games or take advantage of the ships amenities.

Farewell Reception on the Ship

Join your fellow Adventurers for a farewell reception as you tell tales and swap stories about the amazing adventure you just shared in Antarctica and Patagonia.

Evening Activities on the Ship

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner

Day Twelve – Fly to Buenos Aires, Journey Home

Arrive in Ushuaia and Breakfast on the Ship

Welcome back from your amazing Expedition Cruise! Enjoy a delicious breakfast on board the ship at your leisure before you disembark.

Transfer from Ship to Ushuaia Airport

Disembark the ship and transfer to Ushuaia Airport (USH).

Fly from Ushuaia to Buenos Aires to Begin Your Journey Home

Take a morning flight from Ushuaia to Ezeiza International Airport (EZE) in Buenos Aires for your return flight home. To assure a comfortable connection in Buenos Aires, your evening flight should not be scheduled any time prior to 5:00 PM.

Meals Included: Breakfast

Trip Overview Details:

FLIGHT INFORMATION

2021 and 2022 Departures

Arrive: Ezeiza International Airport (EZE)
Return: Ezeiza International Airport (EZE)

ACCOMMODATIONS

Sofitel Buenos Aires Recoleta Hotel

Ship accomodations depending on departure date:

Le Boréal: December 20, 2021 departure

Le Lyrial: January 30, 2022 departure

View Stateroom Floorplans and Deck Plans

31 MEALS

11 Breakfasts, 10 Lunches, 10 Dinners

AGES

Minimum Age: 10
Suggested Age: 12+

Dreams Unlimited Travel

Antarctica – Patagonia Expedition

Adventures By Disney Discounts

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