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Solar Eclipse in Antarctica Itinerary
Day 1 - Ushuaia (Argentina)
Arrive in Ushuaia where you will be met and transferred to the hotel (preferred flights only). Upon arrival, please ask the hotel check-in staff for Aurora Expeditions cabin tags, and fill them in.
Day 2 - Ushuaia
Check-out of the hotel and head to the port to embark your ship. Settle into your cabin, before important briefings.(D)
Day 3 - Drake Passage
Your ship begins to cruise the famous Drake Passage towards the South Shetland Islands. Enjoy lectures on board about the region's history, wildlife and environment. (B,L,D)
Day 4 - Drake Passage - South Shetland Islands (Antarctica)
After finishing cruising the Drake Passage, arrive in the South Shetland Islands, surrounded by majestic icebergs. Weather permitting, you may be able to enjoy your first landing in Antarctica late afternoon. (B,L,D)
Days 5-9 - Antarctic Peninsula
Arriving in Antarctica is an unforgettable experience. You'll explore the western side of the Antarctic Peninsula and the South Shetland Islands. As you are so far south, you'll experience around 18-24 hours of daylight. The Expedition Team will design each day taking into account weather and ice conditions. You may be able to enjoy two landings or Zodiac excursions everyday, during which you may be lucky enough to spot whales, seals and penguins. Ashore, walk along pebbled beaches or up snow-covered ridges for stunning panoramic views. There will be optional activities available and the chance to take a polar plunge. In addition to Zodiac cruises and shore excursions, the ship may be able to cruise narrow straits and linger in sheltered bays to watch whales. (B,L,D)
Days 10-11 - Elephant Island
Weather permitting, the ship will set sail for Elephant Island in the South Shetlands. Learn about Shackleton and how his ship, Endurance, was crushed by pack ice, resulting in his crew spending 16 months at sea in open boats, before reaching Elephant Island. You may be able to cruise past Cape Valentine to see the beach where the crew first stepped ashore over 100 years ago. Weather permitting, continue to Point Wild where they set up camp and potentially enjoy a landing. According to NASA, the Weddell Sea is the best place to observe the solar eclipse. The full solar eclipse will only be visible in Antarctica. Hopefully you will be able to witness this natural phenomenon. (B,L,D)
Days 12-13 - At sea
Cruise the Scotia Sea en route to South Georgia, following in the footsteps of Shackleton. Learn more about the Shackleton story from the onboard historian. (B,L,D)
Days 14-17 - South Georgia
South Georgia is renowned for its snow-capped mountains, large congregations of wildlife and remarkable history. Cruise down the east coast, taking in the glaciated scenery. As always, the Expedition Team will plan the days based on weather and ice conditions. You may be able to enjoy two landings or Zodiac excursions a day. Visit some of the largest king penguin colonies on earth, enjoy a walk among fur seals and elephant seals, and wander alongside pebbled streams. In addition to Zodiac cruises and shore excursions, the ship may cruise through fjords or into bays. (B,L,D)
Days 18-19 - At sea
As the ship cruises towards the Falkland Islands, witness the ceaseless flight of the seabirds that follow in its wake. The lecture program will continue on board and you will have plenty of time at leisure. If time and weather conditions permit, the ship will cruise close to Shag Rocks. (B,L,D)
Day 20 - Falkland Islands (UK)
The Falkland Islands are made up to two large islands, East and West Falkland. These barren islands are true wildlife havens with an impressive diversity of birdlife, including the largest black-browed albatross colony on earth. As always, the Expedition Team will plan the day based on weather and ice conditions. You may be able to enjoy two landings or Zodiac excursions a day. You may be able to visit albatross colonies and penguin rookeries, and enjoy a traditional English tea at a local cottage. You may also be able to visit Stanley, capital of the Falkland Islands. It has a distinctly British character with terraced houses and a post office. (B,L,D)
Day 21 - At sea
Enjoy the onboard facilities or listen to a lecture. Celebrate the end of the voyage at the Captain's Farewell Dinner. (B,L,D)
Day 22 - Ushuaia (Argentina)
After breakfast, disembark the ship. (B)
In true expedition style we encourage exploration and adventure, offering flexibility in challenging environments in a way that puts you among the action to see and do as much as possible. This itinerary is only a guide and subject to change due to ice and weather conditions.