Quest for the Antarctic Circle
Aboard the 128-guest Expedition, spend 7 full days exploring the South Shetland Islands and Antarctic Peninsula. Attempt to reach the Antarctic Circle, traveling farther south than many have gone. Whales, albatross, a variety of penguins and onboard lectures magnify this Antarctic experience.
Join this 14-day Quest for the Antarctic Circle aboard M/S Expedition to our planet’s last frontier—a mysterious and virtually pristine paradise. If weather allows, cross into this rarely visited location and celebrate with fellow travelers as one of the few who have traveled as far south as the Antarctic Circle. Meanwhile, a massive rookery of penguins shuffles across a frozen shore. A pod of whales glides through frigid waters. Dramatic landscapes float off in the distance…welcome to Antarctica.
Spend 7 full days exploring the Antarctic Peninsula, traveling farther south than most have ever gone. Spend time on deck searching for whales, watching soaring albatross and viewing colossal icebergs pass by. With two attempted shore landings a day at the Antarctic Peninsula, get up close to a variety of penguin and seal species. Discover the history and intricacies of the Antarctic region through the onboard lecture program.
Guests can also partake in the Citizen Science program, an interactive information gathering initiative aimed at better understanding marine mammals in Antarctica. With a little guidance beforehand, learn which angles and types of wildlife the program is looking for during your voyage and put your photography skills to the test! The reward is making a meaningful contribution to science.
The ice-strengthened, 128-guest MS Expedition small ship is ideally suited for cruising this icy wilderness. Her expert staff are on hand at all times to ensure guests fully appreciate the majesty of Antarctica. Prepare yourself for an adventure like no other—more like a private expedition than a traditional small ship cruise.
Read on for details about this trip, or learn more about AdventureSmith’s Antarctic Circle cruises, Antarctica cruises and trips to Antarctica.
Quest for the Antarctic Circle Itinerary
The 14-day Quest for the Antarctic Circle operates round-trip from Ushuaia, Argentina, with 7 full days exploring the South Shetland Islands and Antarctic Peninsula, plus an attempt to cross the rarely visited Antarctic Circle.
Arrive at any time; your airport transfer is included. Enjoy the sights and sounds of Ushuaia, the world’s most southerly city. There will be a welcome desk in the lobby of the start hotel that will provide more specific information on the M/S Expedition and the upcoming adventure.
Enjoy a free morning in Ushuaia. Do any last minute shopping, explore the town or visit the surrounding countryside. Embarkation begins in the afternoon at the port in Ushuaia. Enjoy the evening sailing through the Beagle Channel.
Optional Added-Cost Activity: Tierra del Fuego National Park
Explore this stunning coastal national park extending 243 square miles (630 sq km). The Tierra del Fuego National Park has many different attractions, like Acigami Lake and Lapataia Bay, where the Pan-American Route ends. This is the southernmost national park of Argentina and the only one that protects mountains, sea and forests within its limits. You can also add the End of the World train (for an additional price). Keep an eye out for a variety of birdlife and spectacular colors in the fall. Please note: The entirety of this activity (including the End of the World train) can only be booked on the ground locally. This activity takes place in the morning and prices listed are for the park entry only. Transport and guides are at an additional cost and can be arranged with the help of ship staff.
Your adventure begins with a 497-mile crossing of the passage named in honor of 16th-century English sea captain and privateer, Sir Francis Drake. Enjoy daily lectures from the expedition team and keep an eye out for icebergs, whales and albatross following in the ship’s wake. Become acquainted with the ship by frequenting common areas that include the lounge, dining hall, library and lecture hall, and meet your guides, ship’s crew and expedition staff.
Over the next few days navigate southwards, making stops in the South Shetland Islands then through the Bransfield Strait and to the Antarctic Peninsula. Encounter some of the region’s unique wildlife and awe-inspiring scenery while setting foot on the Antarctic continent. Attempt two shore landings per day (weather permitting) and encounter gentoo, chinstrap and adélie penguin rookeries. Search for Weddell, crabeater and leopard seals, as well as orca, humpback and minke whales in the cold Antarctic waters. The Antarctic Peninsula also has a remarkable human history. During the voyage, learn about some of the most important and dramatic expeditions to this remote corner of the world. Depending on weather conditions, opt to do the polar plunge and jump into the frigid waters of the Antarctic.
With a close eye on weather conditions, continue southward along the western coast of the Antarctic Peninsula. While passing colossal icebergs and countless colonies of penguins, the ship pushes on with one goal in mind: crossing the Antarctic Polar Circle. Few travelers have ventured this far south, but with a fully equipped, ice-strengthened vessel and favorable sea conditions, the M/S Expedition can access many remote locations other ships just can’t reach.
Turn north for the first time to continue exploring the Antarctic Peninsula and South Shetland Islands. Keep an eye out for wildlife and possible opportunities for whale watching or even, weather permitting, a polar plunge in the southern waters.
Leave Antarctica and head north across the Drake Passage. In between bird watching and whale watching and enjoying some final lectures by the expedition staff, this is your chance to relax and review the adventures of the past week before returning to Ushuaia. Be sure to visit the observation deck for some final whale sightings.
Disembark after breakfast and transfer to the airport for flights home or a trip extension.
Included
Accommodations aboard M/S Expedition; all meals as indicated in itinerary; one night hotel in Ushuaia; arrival and departure transfers; Zodiac excursions with expert expedition team; lectures and educational programs; waterproof boots supplied for USA size 4-16; expedition parka.
Exclusions
Airfares to the embarkation point and from the disembarkation point; adventure options; passport and visa expenses; government arrival and departure taxes; hotel accommodations; supplement for single hotel accommodations; meals while in Ushuaia; Trip Cancellation Insurance with emergency medical evacuation insurance (required); excess baggage charges and all items of a personal nature such as laundry, bar and beverage charges and telecommunication charges; and the customary gratuity at the end of the voyage for those who have served you aboard (guidelines will be provided). Note: Should the price of marine fuel increase dramatically, there may be a fuel surcharge.
Payment & Cancellation
In order to confirm this trip, a nonrefundable deposit of $1,000 is required per person at time of booking. The balance of the trip price is due 120 days before the departure date. Special holiday payment and cancellation terms may apply. Guests who must cancel their trip for any reason must do so in writing. Standard cancellations are subject to the following per-person penalties, based on number of days prior to departure:
Up to 90 days – 100% of deposit (may be applied to future trip by trip operator)
89 to 60 days – 100% of deposit (may be applied to future trip by trip operator) and 50% of the remainder of payments made
59 to 0 days – 100% of deposit (may be applied to future trip by trip operator) and 100% of total trip cost
Terms & Conditions
This trip is subject to AdventureSmith Explorations Terms and Conditions. Please read this information carefully and call us if you have any questions. A Traveler Information Form, which includes a release of liability, must be completed and signed by all travelers. Your Adventure Specialist will send you a unique link to complete this form along with a packing list and extensive pre-departure and travel insurance information upon booking confirmation.
Arrival & Departure
The Quest for the Antarctic Circle cruise begins and ends in Ushuaia, Argentina (USH). Plan flights to arrive to Ushuaia anytime on Day 1 of the itinerary. Plan flights to depart Ushuaia no earlier than 11:00am on the final day. Upon completion of the morning disembarkation in Ushuaia, passengers will receive a complimentary transfer to either the airport or a central location where luggage can be stored. If you would like assistance with international flights, please visit our Booking Flights resource page.
Activities
Various optional activities may be available on your Quest for the Antarctic Circle cruise. Per-person prices for the 2026-27 seasons: kayaking $1,299; camping $399; photography, polar plunge and citizen science program included. Please note camping is limited to 60 people and kayaking is limited to 10 people per excursion (multiple excursions included). Please contact AdventureSmith to reserve activity space with your booking.
Room Configuration
Solo travelers willing to share can reserve a triple or twin-shared cabin, where you will be matched with a person(s) of the same gender. If the other cabin berth goes unsold, you will be guaranteed the rate with no single supplement. For those who desire single occupancy, all double occupancy cabins are available for single occupancy at an increase over the twin rate; the increase varies by cabin, ask your Adventure Specialist for details.
Families & Children
Minimum age for children is 10 years old. An adult over the age of 21 must accompany every 2 children under the age of 18. The ratio of adults to children traveling together must be one adult per two children and two adults per four children (17 and under).
Travel Insurance
Travelers are required to have travel insurance with a minimum medical, evacuation and repatriation coverage of USD $200,000 covering all applicable dates of travel, personal injury and emergency medical evacuation. It is strongly recommended that you extend coverage to include personal liability, cancellation, curtailment, and all other expenses that may arise as a result of loss, damage, injury, delay or inconvenience while traveling. Our partners at Travelex Insurance offer a variety of plans and policies to fit every trip and budget. For best value and coverage for pre-existing medical conditions, consider purchasing a policy at time of booking. Learn more about travel insurance or get a free quote.
Itinerary Notes
Read this itinerary as a guide only; the exact route and program varies according to ice, weather conditions and the wildlife encountered. Flexibility is the key to the success of any Antarctica expedition. Visits to research stations depend on final permission.
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At a nimble 332 feet in length, with a capacity of 128 guests, the MS Expedition is an ideal vessel to ply polar waters. Her large outside decks offer panoramic views, and an extensive 2017 refurbishment brought significant technical upgrades, two new engines, enhanced public areas and bathrooms, and the Deluxe and Owner's Suite cabins.
Why Sail Aboard the MS Expedition
Choose the MS Expedition ship for her large common spaces and viewing decks, which create opportunities to both mingle with fellow travelers and find personal quiet time. Our experts who've been aboard recommend the nightly live music by the engaging house band, as well as any fun costume nights. Also choose MS Expedition for a seamless expedition/operations experience, as she is operator-owned.
AdventureSmith Explorations has had multiple staff aboard the MV Expedition firsthand, and can help you compare the Expedition with other polar expedition ships that offer Antarctica cruises, and Arctic cruises including Greenland small ship cruises and Svalbard cruises. Note that starting with the 2025-2026 Antarctic season, the former Ocean Adventurer ship has being rechristened as the MS Expedition. Images and details here reflect the MS Expedition in her new form; however some of our staff reviews discuss her former iteration.
Consult this page further for a detailed description of the Expedition, including ship specs, deck plan, cabin images and a photo gallery. We've been aboard many Antarctica ships and can be your ultimate resource to discover if this is the best ship choice for your travel needs.
Sustainability Aboard MS Expedition
Reusable bags on board enable beach cleanups while exploring polar shorelines, as part of Expedition's Marine Debris program. A compactor on board the ship efficiently collects trash over the ship's sailing season; the trash is then delivered to Svalbard to be recycled. The ship burns Marine Gas Oil (MGO)—a clean burning fuel with a low emission factor that conforms to all international regulations and policies governing disposal of waste at sea. Her 2017 refurbishment upgraded her technical specs to include two new engines, generators, gear boxes, drive systems and re-bladed propellers, resulting in fuel efficiency and a minimized carbon footprint.
Common Areas Aboard MS Expedition
The MS Expedition ship has multiple large public areas, all providing superior views to enjoy during sea crossings and in between land excursions. Enjoy sweeping panoramas from the ship's 360-degree upper decks, while a raised observation platform provides a great vantage point from which to spot unique wildlife and the large aft deck offers additional viewing options and hosts a sunny day barbecue. The Expedition cruise ship also offers breathtaking views from its interior so passengers can relax in the warmth and comfort of the dining room, lounge or pub without being cut off from the remarkable environment.
A theater-style lounge accommodates everyone on board and serves as the main briefing and lecture hall with presentations, films and slideshows for education and enjoyment. Seating here is varied to offer booths, comfortable swivel chairs and stools at the bar. Enjoy a library with books and games, as well as a small onboard gym and staffed medical clinic. Shop for souvenirs in the Polar Boutique or spend time on the observation decks to view wildlife and enjoy the open ocean. Be sure to take advantage of the multi-leveled viewing on the bow when the captain opens up this sometimes-off-limits space.
An open bridge policy allows you to sail with a captain’s-eye view and see the operations of the captain and his crew; a few binoculars are available to use in this space for spotting wildlife and landing sites. Ship-to-shore satellite communications with email and wireless Internet access are available for purchase. Free intranet is available to access daily schedules and expedition staff bios on board.
Dining Aboard MS Expedition
A diversity of gourmet international cuisines are prepared and catered by professional chefs. Dining is casual, tables of four to eight are unassigned, and the window-lined dining room is capable of seating the full complement of passengers at one time. If weather allows, a barbecue buffet can be served alfresco on the Captain’s Deck for a unique polar dining experience.
There is always a selection of different meals available and vegetarians will find plenty of options. Breakfast and lunch are buffets while dinner is served plated. Special dietary requirements, including vegan and celiac disease, can be accommodated with advance notice. Coffee, tea and water are all provided free of charge, with special afternoon tea service with snacks. All other beverages, alcoholic and non-alcoholic, can be purchased in the dining room, pub or lounge.
Crew & Guides Aboard MS Expedition
The ship's crew is dedicated to ensuring every journey exceeds travelers' expectations. From the MV Expedition captain who has successfully navigated over 100 ice cruises, to the ship's expedition leader with over 30 years experience in polar expeditions, they are amongst the most experienced and skilled in their field. Experts in everything from geology to marine biology and photography to polar history, the members of the Expedition team are always eager to share their infectious passion for the plants, animals and historic figures of the polar regions. A 10:1 passenger-to-guide ratio means more on-hand experts, deeper access and greater understanding throughout the voyage.
Activities Aboard MS Expedition
The large fleet of Zodiacs are launched from a special platform, ensuring comfort and ease of accessibility for Zodiac cruises and shore landings. Citizen science opportunities abound on all of Expedition's departures, encouraging guests to participate in key sample collections. The MS Expedition ship offers kayaks and camping gear for off-ship adventures. The entire passenger complement only requires 30 minutes to load or unload from the Zodiacs, making for swift and efficient operations.
On board, the Expedition's crew create a fun atmosphere with activities including game nights; performances by the resident musicians; and an "Embrace the Bizarre" night featuring the crew band, strobe lights and a conga line. The onboard costume closet encourages guest participation in the fun. And for the adventurous wedding planner, an added-cost wedding package offers the option to be married by the captain.
MS Expedition Cabins & Deck Plan
The 65 modern cabins offer a variety of affordable doubles and triples, as well as higher-end double cabins and suites. All cabins provide views (window or porthole), storage, a nightstand, a writing desk, in-room music, individual temperature controls and a full private en-suite bathroom with hairdryer. Daily cabin service makes sure the cabin is clean, warm and inviting. The electricity on board is 220v/50Hz electrical outlets, with European 2-pin round holes. An international adapter may be needed.
At a nimble 332 feet in length, with a capacity of 128 guests, the MS Expedition is an ideal vessel to ply polar waters. Her large outside decks offer panoramic views, and an extensive 2017 refurbishment brought significant technical upgrades, two new engines, enhanced public areas and bathrooms, and the Deluxe and Owner's Suite cabins.
Why Sail Aboard the MS Expedition
Choose the MS Expedition ship for her large common spaces and viewing decks, which create opportunities to both mingle with fellow travelers and find personal quiet time. Our experts who've been aboard recommend the nightly live music by the engaging house band, as well as any fun costume nights. Also choose MS Expedition for a seamless expedition/operations experience, as she is operator-owned.
AdventureSmith Explorations has had multiple staff aboard the MV Expedition firsthand, and can help you compare the Expedition with other polar expedition ships that offer Antarctica cruises, and Arctic cruises including Greenland small ship cruises and Svalbard cruises. Note that starting with the 2025-2026 Antarctic season, the former Ocean Adventurer ship has being rechristened as the MS Expedition. Images and details here reflect the MS Expedition in her new form; however some of our staff reviews discuss her former iteration.
Consult this page further for a detailed description of the Expedition, including ship specs, deck plan, cabin images and a photo gallery. We've been aboard many Antarctica ships and can be your ultimate resource to discover if this is the best ship choice for your travel needs.
Sustainability Aboard MS Expedition
Reusable bags on board enable beach cleanups while exploring polar shorelines, as part of Expedition's Marine Debris program. A compactor on board the ship efficiently collects trash over the ship's sailing season; the trash is then delivered to Svalbard to be recycled. The ship burns Marine Gas Oil (MGO)—a clean burning fuel with a low emission factor that conforms to all international regulations and policies governing disposal of waste at sea. Her 2017 refurbishment upgraded her technical specs to include two new engines, generators, gear boxes, drive systems and re-bladed propellers, resulting in fuel efficiency and a minimized carbon footprint.
Common Areas Aboard MS Expedition
The MS Expedition ship has multiple large public areas, all providing superior views to enjoy during sea crossings and in between land excursions. Enjoy sweeping panoramas from the ship's 360-degree upper decks, while a raised observation platform provides a great vantage point from which to spot unique wildlife and the large aft deck offers additional viewing options and hosts a sunny day barbecue. The Expedition cruise ship also offers breathtaking views from its interior so passengers can relax in the warmth and comfort of the dining room, lounge or pub without being cut off from the remarkable environment.
A theater-style lounge accommodates everyone on board and serves as the main briefing and lecture hall with presentations, films and slideshows for education and enjoyment. Seating here is varied to offer booths, comfortable swivel chairs and stools at the bar. Enjoy a library with books and games, as well as a small onboard gym and staffed medical clinic. Shop for souvenirs in the Polar Boutique or spend time on the observation decks to view wildlife and enjoy the open ocean. Be sure to take advantage of the multi-leveled viewing on the bow when the captain opens up this sometimes-off-limits space.
An open bridge policy allows you to sail with a captain’s-eye view and see the operations of the captain and his crew; a few binoculars are available to use in this space for spotting wildlife and landing sites. Ship-to-shore satellite communications with email and wireless Internet access are available for purchase. Free intranet is available to access daily schedules and expedition staff bios on board.
Dining Aboard MS Expedition
A diversity of gourmet international cuisines are prepared and catered by professional chefs. Dining is casual, tables of four to eight are unassigned, and the window-lined dining room is capable of seating the full complement of passengers at one time. If weather allows, a barbecue buffet can be served alfresco on the Captain’s Deck for a unique polar dining experience.
There is always a selection of different meals available and vegetarians will find plenty of options. Breakfast and lunch are buffets while dinner is served plated. Special dietary requirements, including vegan and celiac disease, can be accommodated with advance notice. Coffee, tea and water are all provided free of charge, with special afternoon tea service with snacks. All other beverages, alcoholic and non-alcoholic, can be purchased in the dining room, pub or lounge.
Crew & Guides Aboard MS Expedition
The ship's crew is dedicated to ensuring every journey exceeds travelers' expectations. From the MV Expedition captain who has successfully navigated over 100 ice cruises, to the ship's expedition leader with over 30 years experience in polar expeditions, they are amongst the most experienced and skilled in their field. Experts in everything from geology to marine biology and photography to polar history, the members of the Expedition team are always eager to share their infectious passion for the plants, animals and historic figures of the polar regions. A 10:1 passenger-to-guide ratio means more on-hand experts, deeper access and greater understanding throughout the voyage.
Activities Aboard MS Expedition
The large fleet of Zodiacs are launched from a special platform, ensuring comfort and ease of accessibility for Zodiac cruises and shore landings. Citizen science opportunities abound on all of Expedition's departures, encouraging guests to participate in key sample collections. The MS Expedition ship offers kayaks and camping gear for off-ship adventures. The entire passenger complement only requires 30 minutes to load or unload from the Zodiacs, making for swift and efficient operations.
On board, the Expedition's crew create a fun atmosphere with activities including game nights; performances by the resident musicians; and an "Embrace the Bizarre" night featuring the crew band, strobe lights and a conga line. The onboard costume closet encourages guest participation in the fun. And for the adventurous wedding planner, an added-cost wedding package offers the option to be married by the captain.
MS Expedition Cabins & Deck Plan
The 65 modern cabins offer a variety of affordable doubles and triples, as well as higher-end double cabins and suites. All cabins provide views (window or porthole), storage, a nightstand, a writing desk, in-room music, individual temperature controls and a full private en-suite bathroom with hairdryer. Daily cabin service makes sure the cabin is clean, warm and inviting. The electricity on board is 220v/50Hz electrical outlets, with European 2-pin round holes. An international adapter may be needed.
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Learn About the Small Ship on Your Itinerary
The Expedition is a comfortable polar vessel at an affordable price. Unlike many expedition ships, where public space is at a premium, there are multiple large public areas aboard to enjoy. And this ship is known for her fun and engaging guides and crew.
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