A frosted wilderness of glistening white as far as the eye can see. Natural ice sculptures like enormous works of avant-garde art. This is the modern explorer’s final frontier. Hear the cries of penguins multiplied by the thousands, watch leopard seals and sea lions perfectly at ease in the company of visitors, feel the unspeakable magnificence of a whale breaching from beneath cold ocean waters. Astounding animal encounters – opportunities found nowhere else on earth.

Day 1 – USHUAIA, ARGENTINA
Tierra del Fuego might well be considered the "Land at the End of the World" but, for us today, it is just the beginning. A spectacular jumping off point and return port for your Antarctic expedition.

Depart from Buenos Aires J. Newbery Domestic Airport (AEP) and fly via private air charter to Ushuaia International Airport (USH) and transfer to the port. Embark Prince Albert II. This evening, you will be introduced to your Expedition Leaders.

Days 2-3 – DRAKE PASSAGE
The Drake Passage has a notorious reputation for its turbulent seas due to the Antarctic Convergence, a natural boundary where cold polar water flows northward and warmer equatorial water moves southward. When they meet, nutrients are pushed to the surface, often attracting a multitude of seabirds and whales. Spend some time on deck watching the horizon and the variety of seabirds that float in the air currents of our ship’s wake such as the black-browed albatross, sooty shearwaters and white-chinned petrels.

As we set sail on our initial transit, familiarize yourself with the elegant Prince Albert II and the welcoming expedition staff during talks that prepare you for the exciting adventures ahead.

Days 4-9 – ANTARCTIC PENINSULA
Beyond the furthest reaches of Tierra del Fuego and beyond imagination lies the last great frontier – Antarctica’s vast white wilderness. Landscapes formed by the harshest wrath of nature, yet blessed by an isolated independence. A place where remarkable nature and wildlife species exist and, in fact thrive despite the harsh climate. Witness the dramatic beauty of spectacular iceberg sculptures, marvel at calving glaciers and experience up-close encounters with marine mammals. Watch for seals sunbathing on slow-moving ice floes and for humpback, minke, and orca whales breaching from below the frigid waters. Each day we will attempt at least two Zodiac departures, and, if conditions permit, will visit a variety of penguin rookeries and scientific research stations. Perhaps a Zodiac cruise amidst colorful icebergs or a special excursion with the expert guest naturalist will be the highlight of your day’s agenda.

Days 10-11 – DRAKE PASSAGE RETURN
Navigating our return through the Drake Passage, we have the chance to spot seabirds and wildlife we may have missed on the first trip. Take this opportunity to listen to additional presentations offered by onboard specialists and swap prized photos with new found friends as we make our return journey to Ushuaia.

Day 12 – USHUAIA, ARGENTINA
After breakfast, disembark Prince Albert II and transfer to Ushuaia International Airport (USH) for your charter flight to Buenos Aires J. Newbery Domestic Airport (AEP).

Prince Albert's deck plan (pdf file)

Prince Albert's suite descriptions (pdf file)

Rates from USD 6665 per person based on double occupancy.
Charter air between Buenos Aires and Ushuaia is USD 375 each way.

PRINCE ALBERT II DISTINCTIONS
- Superior accommodations
- Superlative service and genuine hospitality
- Crew to guest ratio of nearly 1 to 1
- Private butler service
- Expert naturalists and special guest lecturers
- Complimentary, hosted adventures ashore
- Complimentary parka and backpack
- Fares include all onboard gratuities
- Complimentary fine wines, champagnes and spirits served throughout the ship
- In-room beverage cabinet stocked with your complimentary selections
- Casual/informal attire – no formal nights
- Open-seating dining
- Gourmet menus by Relais and Chateaux
- Complimentary 24-hour room service
- Spa, fitness centre, two top-deck whirlpools, live evening entertainment
- Ship-wide Internet access and cellular phone service (fee applies

SAILING DATES: December 8 - 19, 2010; January 5-15, 2011; January 15-25, 2011; February 11-21, 2011; December 12-22, 2011

We offer the right Antarctica cruise at the right price. Call 1-800-334-6544 (U.S.) or +1-212-480-4521 (International) or go to How to Book

About Prince Albert II

Video of Expeditions on Prince Albert II

The longer Explorer Antarctica program on Prince Albert II

Summary of all Antarctica programs