Beyond the Antarctic Circle - Christmas & New Year's Voyage

• 15 nightsDuration
• Scenic Eclipse II, Scenic IkonShips
• Buenos AiresRound trip from
• Dec 21, 2027Next sailing

Upcoming departures

Day by day

As planned for the Dec 21, 2027 departure; other departures may differ.

1. Day 1Pre-Cruise Night

2. Day 2Buenos Aires

   Welcome to Buenos Aires, where you will enjoy an overnight hotel stay. Perhaps plan to spend some time in the city, nicknamed the ‘Paris of South America’. Resplendent with Belle Epoque buildings, sidewalk cafes and green spaces, there’s the fiery passion of Latin America – a collective love for football, flame-cooked meats (asado) and the tango.
   
   Some of the highlights are La Boca, a colourful, creative mecca with a must-do art walk, and San Telmo, a former aristocratic neighbourhood that was abandoned during a 19th-century epidemic.

3. Day 3Buenos Aires

   Board a flight from Buenos Aires to Ushuaia, the gateway to Antarctica and the world’s southernmost city, nestled on the rugged shores of Tierra del Fuego. The Captain and crew will warmly greet you as you board your ultra-luxury Discovery Yacht.
   
   Raise a glass of Champagne as you set sail through the legendary Beagle Channel, tracing the path of Charles Darwin’s historic voyage. From your private verandah or the Observation Deck, take in breathtaking views of the snow-capped Andean peaks and pristine Patagonian wilderness—marking the beginning of an unforgettable expedition.
   
   Due to the extraordinary nature of this region, Scenic Discovery excursions throughout your Expedition Voyage are dependent on the ice and weather conditions. Your experienced Captain and specialist polar Discovery Team, who have made countless journeys to Antarctica, will use their expertise to design your voyage from day to day, making the most of your time in this spectacular destination.

4. Day 3Ushuaia

5. Day 4Day at Sea

6. Day 5Day at Sea

7. Day 6Antarctic Peninsula

   
   Wake up to a truly magical Christmas morning in the heart of Antarctica. Slide open the floor-to-ceiling doors of your verandah suite to see icebergs sculpted by nature and glacial mountains rising thousands of metres from the ocean.
   
   This breathtaking icy landscape provides a once-in-a-lifetime backdrop for this special day of exploration. Festive dining and entertainment throughout the day will ensure a celebratory spirit onboard—this will be the whitest Christmas you’ve ever experienced.
   
   Antarctica is a birdwatcher's paradise, with more than 40 different species, so keep your eyes peeled for wandering albatrosses, shearwaters, giant petrels and more.

   Scenic Discovery:
   Daily experiences may include cruising on Zodiacs, stepping ashore to view vast penguin rookeries or historic huts, and kayaking or stand-up paddle-boarding around icebergs.

8. Day 7Antarctic Peninsula

   Every day, set out on unforgettable Zodiac excursions to explore breathtaking glaciated bays, tranquil channels, and pristine landing sites. Your dedicated Discovery Team will guide you as you trek across the awe-inspiring Antarctic wilderness, and meet the adorable chinstrap, Adélie and gentoo penguins that inhabit this magical region.
   
   We believe that the best way to experience an environmentally sensitive destination like Antarctica is with a small group of travellers. Guests will board the Zodiacs according to their designated colour group, where our expert Discovery Team will guide them, ensuring an unforgettable and unique experience.

9. Day 8Antarctic Peninsula

   Various species of penguins can be found living on the Peninsula, including Adélie, Chinstrap, Gentoo, and the very rare Emperor penguins. Guided by the expert Discovery Team, you will witness colonies up close; hear their mighty calls and watch as they clumsily waddle along and interact with each other.
   
   Whales are another majestic creature you may encounter, whether a minke, a humpback or an Orca. Watch them from the comfort of your ultra-luxury Discovery Yacht, in a Zodiac with an experienced Discovery Team member, or from their level in a kayak or stand-up paddleboard – a breathtaking experience.

   Scenic Discovery:
   When enjoying daily Scenic Discovery excursions, ask your Discovery Team for photography tips and guidance on how to spot the wildlife around you. They will help you immortalise these incredible moments while cruising on the Zodiacs, kayaking and stand-up paddleboarding around impressive ice formations.

10. Day 9Antarctic Peninsula

    On this unforgettable day, you’ll cruise past Antarctica's stunning icy mountains, before stepping ashore by Zodiac to immerse yourself in the true polar wilderness. With ample time dedicated to exploration, this voyage ensures you experience the magic of these awe-inspiring landscapes up close and personal. You will have numerous opportunities to photograph Antarctica’s stunning icy landscapes, whether from the ship or as you explore ashore, capturing the raw beauty of the region.
    
    In between Discovery Excursions, enjoy a specialty tea or coffee in the Observation Lounge and watch the world float by through Swarovski telescopes.
    
    Book a helicopter^ flightseeing or submersible^ excursion for further immersion in Antarctica.

11. Day 10Antarctic Peninsula

    Today, embrace a leisurely pace, allowing ample time ashore to fully absorb the extraordinary landscapes of Antarctica.
    
    Towering glaciers provide one of the most awe-inspiring spectacles of your journey, with the chance to witness massive ice formations breaking away, creating brand-new icebergs before your eyes—a moment of pure wonder in the heart of the White Continent.
    
    On board, explore the indulgent Senses Spa#. Soothe your muscles in the sauna or heated therapy lounge, join a yoga or Pilates class. Choose one of up to 10 world-class dining experiences on board tonight.

    Scenic Discovery: When enjoying daily Discovery Excursions, ask your Discovery Team for photography tips and guidance on how to spot the wildlife around you. They will help you immortalise these incredible moments while cruising on the Zodiacs, kayaking and stand-up paddleboarding around impressive ice formations.

12. Day 11Antarctic Peninsula

    On board your ultra-luxury Discovery Yacht, every moment is designed for comfort and camaraderie, with the inviting lounge offering the perfect space to relax and share unforgettable experiences with like-minded adventurers.
    
    For those seeking an exhilarating experience, the legendary polar plunge awaits—an unforgettable moment of pure adrenaline in the icy waters, carefully planned by the Expedition Leader and Captain. If you prefer to stay warm, find a prime viewing spot and enjoy the performance as fellow guests take the plunge, then join them for a toast with a glass of whiskey or a steaming cup of hot chocolate.

    Scenic Discovery:
    Glide past towering icebergs on a zodiac, step onto untouched white snow, and soar over vast mountain ranges. This is one of the world's few remaining pristine wildernesses, awaiting your exploration.

13. Day 12Antarctic Peninsula

    Celebrate the beginning of an exciting new year in the most extraordinary setting. Toast to new beginnings with a glass of champagne amid the pristine, icy landscapes of Antarctica, an unforgettable experience.
    
    As you continue your exploration, immerse yourself in the sights and sounds of this remote wilderness. Step ashore to witness the breathtaking beauty of Antarctica’s wildlife and landscapes, creating memories that will last a lifetime.
    
    As night falls, celebrate the arrival of the New Year in true ultra-luxury style. Join your fellow guests for an elegant evening of fine dining, live entertainment, and festive toasts.

    Scenic Discovery:
    Daily experiences may include cruising on Zodiacs, stepping ashore to view vast penguin rookeries or historic huts, and kayaking or stand-up paddle boarding around icebergs. Book a helicopter^ flightseeing or submersible^ excursion for further immersion in Antarctica. Wherever your voyage takes you, you will have countless “pinch me" moments.

14. Day 13Antarctic Peninsula

    Start your New Year day with an invigorating workout in the state-of-the-art gym, a guided Pilates session, or a moment of relaxation in the PURE: Yoga & Pilates Studio.
    
    After, if you haven’t yet, make sure to visit the bridge. Thanks to the Captain’s open bridge policy, you’re welcome to visit to discover the advanced technology of The World’s First Discovery Yacht and watch it in action. The bridge offers some of the most stunning views on board.
    
    Throughout the day, the theatre comes alive with insightful talks and lectures from the expert polar Discovery Team.

    Scenic Discovery:
    Partake in daily Discovery Excursions. Cruise on the Zodiacs around ice formations. Kayak and stand-up paddleboard around icebergs and hear the ice cracking and whales feeding below.

15. Day 14Antarctic Peninsula

    Embrace the serene beauty of Antarctica as your Discovery Yacht glides through icy waters. Step onto your verandah to admire glistening icebergs and distant seabird calls. Join a Zodiac excursion to explore hidden coves, guided by your Discovery Team, who offer photography tips to capture seals or glaciers. For a unique view, book a helicopter^ flight to soar above the vast wilderness. Relax with a hot chocolate in the Observation Lounge or unwind at the Senses Spa#.

    Scenic Discovery:
    Enjoy Zodiac cruises, kayaking, or paddleboarding, with expert guidance to photograph wildlife and ice.

16. Day 15Day at Sea

17. Day 16Ushuaia

18. Day 17Ushuaia

    This morning, bid farewell to your expert crew and fellow guests as your extraordinary journey comes to an end. After a final indulgent breakfast on board, disembark in Ushuaia and board your flight to Buenos Aires, carrying with you stories for life of an unforgettable journey in the pristine landscapes of Antarctica.

    Please book your flight to depart out of Buenos Aires after 09:30 PM.

    Sightings cannot be guaranteed. #Spa treatments at additional cost. +All drinks on board, including those stocked in your mini bar, are included, except for a very small number of rare, fine and vintage wines, Champagnes and spirits. Specialty restaurants require a reservation, enquire on board. ~Kayak and stand-up paddleboard not available in all locations. ^Flights on board our two helicopters and submersible experiences are at additional cost, subject to regulatory approval, availability, weight restrictions, medical approval and weather, ice and tidal conditions.

    The itinerary is a guide only and may be amended for operational reasons. As such Scenic cannot guarantee the voyage will operate unaltered from the itinerary stated above. Please refer to our terms and conditions for further information.

19. Day 17Buenos Aires

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