Argentina Cruise from Ushuaia to Lyttelton — 33 Days

Ushuaia, Argentina

Ushuaia sits between the Beagle Channel and the snow-streaked Martial Mountains, at Argentina’s far southern edge. Its harbor has long served as a gateway to Antarctica, while the town itself rewards a slower look. Ride the End of the World Train into Tierra del Fuego National Park, or tour the former prison museum. Here, wild landscapes begin just beyond the last streets.

Drake Passage

Few sea crossings carry the weight of the Drake Passage. Here, the Atlantic and Pacific meet between Cape Horn and Antarctica, and conditions can change quickly. Some voyages pass in calm water; others encounter the swells that made this route legendary. Watch from deck for albatrosses and petrels, then settle into the ship’s routines. The passage is no mere transfer: it is the first clear measure of Antarctica’s scale and remoteness.

South Shetland Islands

The South Shetland Islands lie just north of the Antarctic Peninsula, across the often-choppy Bransfield Strait. Here, black volcanic beaches, glaciers and penguin colonies bring Antarctica close and unmistakably wild. At Deception Island, ships enter a flooded volcanic caldera; elsewhere, research stations mark a human presence. Expect landings shaped by weather, sea ice and wildlife rules, with encounters that reward patience more than a schedule.

Antarctic Peninsula

The Antarctic Peninsula brings you within reach of Antarctica’s most dramatic scenery: mountain-backed glaciers, blue icebergs and sheltered bays. Most voyages cross the Drake Passage from Ushuaia, then explore by expedition ship and Zodiac, weather permitting. Watch for gentoo, chinstrap and Adélie penguins, seals and whales. Shore visits follow strict environmental rules, and plans can change with conditions. Expect few comforts ashore; the reward is a rare encounter with a continent still governed by ice and weather.

At Sea (At Sea)

Ross Island Antarctica

Ross Island is Antarctica at its most consequential: a stark volcanic outpost beside the Ross Sea. Mount Erebus rises above McMurdo Sound, an active volcano on the island’s skyline. Historic huts recall the expeditions of Scott and Shackleton, whose journeys began from this remote shore. Adélie penguins and seals inhabit nearby waters, though sightings are never guaranteed. Weather and sea ice govern access; this is an expedition landing, not a conventional port call.

Antarctic Peninsula

The Antarctic Peninsula brings you within reach of Antarctica’s most dramatic scenery: mountain-backed glaciers, blue icebergs and sheltered bays. Most voyages cross the Drake Passage from Ushuaia, then explore by expedition ship and Zodiac, weather permitting. Watch for gentoo, chinstrap and Adélie penguins, seals and whales. Shore visits follow strict environmental rules, and plans can change with conditions. Expect few comforts ashore; the reward is a rare encounter with a continent still governed by ice and weather.

At Sea (At Sea)

Balleny Islands Antarctica (Scenic Stop)

At Sea (At Sea)

Oban NZ

Oban is the small harbour town on Stewart Island, New Zealand’s southernmost inhabited island. Here, the pace slows; forested hills, sheltered bays and a rugged coastline take centre stage. Rakiura National Park protects much of the island, with walking tracks leading through native bush to beaches and birdlife. The island is renowned for its kiwi, though sightings are never guaranteed. Arrive by ferry from Bluff or by flight from Invercargill, then explore on foot or by water.

At Sea (At Sea)

Lyttelton-Christchurch

Lyttelton is Christchurch’s historic harbour, tucked beneath the volcanic hills of Banks Peninsula. Explore its compact centre, where seafaring heritage meets hillside streets and a lively arts scene. A short drive through the Lyttelton Road Tunnel connects the port with Christchurch. Choose the city’s gardens and museums, or venture farther across Banks Peninsula for coastal bays, wildlife and walking tracks.