Polar Circle Quest onboard Terra Nova Adventurer
11-night Antarctica expedition · 2 departures · from $13,310 per guest
- 11 nightsDuration
- Terra Nova AdventurerShip
- UshuaiaRound trip from
- Feb 14, 2027Next sailing
Polar Circle Quest
Embark on the ultimate journey to the frozen frontier—an expedition to the Antarctic Peninsula, the South Shetland Islands, and even beyond the legendary Antarctic Circle.
Aboard the iconic Terra Nova Adventurer, you’ll explore one of the planet’s last true wildernesses, where towering icebergs drift silently through glassy waters and wildlife thrives against a backdrop of raw, untamed beauty. Over 12 incredible days, this voyage blends breathtaking scenery with thrilling adventure activities designed to immerse you fully in the spirit of exploration. Paddle alongside curious seals on a guided kayaking excursion, crunch across untouched snowfields on snowshoes, or glide into remote bays on Zodiac cruises, where every turn might reveal penguin colonies, breaching whales, or dramatic ice formations.
This is more than a cruise, it’s an expedition in every sense, where the challenges of nature meet the comforts of a boutique vessel, and each day offers new opportunities to connect with the magic of the White Continent.
Upcoming departures
| Sails | Ship | Nights | From (per guest) | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Feb 14, 2027 | Terra Nova Adventurer | 11 | $14,250 | Cabins & fares |
| Feb 25, 2028 | Terra Nova Adventurer | 11 | $13,310 | Cabins & fares |
Day by day
As planned for the Feb 14, 2027 departure; other departures may differ.
Day 1Ushuaia
Board the iconic Terra Nova Adventurer in the afternoon and meet your expert expedition team and lecturers. After settling into your cabin, the ship sets sail through the Beagle Channel and Mackinlay Pass. Take in the breathtaking scenery of rugged coastlines and sea cliffs as your Antarctic adventure begins.
Day 2Crossing the Drake Passage
Cross the legendary Drake Passage, named after Sir Francis Drake. This biologically rich region, where cold polar waters meet warmer currents, supports a thriving ecosystem that attracts seabirds such as albatrosses, petrels, and shearwaters.
Take advantage of the Ocean Adventurer’s open bridge policy, joining the officers to learn about navigation, scan for whales, or simply enjoy the vast horizon. Meanwhile, the lecture team will share insights into Antarctica’s history, geology, and wildlife.
By Day 3, the first sight of the South Shetland Islands will appear—remote islets first discovered in 1819 by Captain William Smith. Weather permitting, you may step ashore for your first encounters with penguins and seals.
Day 3Drake Passage
Continue your journey across the Drake Passage as excitement builds. Keep your eyes peeled for more seabirds and the occasional spout of a whale as you draw nearer to the Antarctic Peninsula. The lecture program continues, offering enriching talks and workshops to deepen your understanding of the region.
By late in the day, you may spot the first rugged peaks of the South Shetland Islands on the horizon—remote islets first charted in 1819 by Captain William Smith. If weather and conditions allow, you may even make your first landing ashore for an unforgettable introduction to Antarctica’s wildlife, such as curious penguins and lounging seals.
Day 4Antarctic Peninsula First Landing
Wake up to your first sight of Antarctica—icebergs drifting by, dramatic peaks rising from the sea, and penguins porpoising along the shoreline. Step ashore for your first landing or cruise among sculpted ice in a Zodiac. The adventure truly begins here.
Day 5South Shetland Islands Exploration
Today’s landings may bring you to the volcanic landscapes of the South Shetlands, where Gentoo penguins nest and seals haul out on black-sand beaches. Optional kayaking or snowshoeing adds a new layer to your polar experience.
Day 6Scenic Sailing through Iconic Channels
Cruise through storied waterways such as the Gerlache Strait or Errera Channel, framed by glaciers and snow-draped peaks. Watch for whales breaching nearby and seabirds wheeling overhead as you glide through mirror-like waters.
Day 7Lemaire Channel & Further South
Sail through the breathtaking Lemaire Channel, nicknamed the "Kodak Gap" for its cinematic beauty. Weather and ice permitting, cross below the Antarctic Circle—a major expedition milestone few travelers reach.
Day 8Rare Landings Below the Circle
Explore remote southern reaches seldom visited by most ships. Towering ice cliffs, quiet bays, and curious wildlife await. With fewer vessels in this region, each landing feels like true exploration at the edge of the world.
Day 9Final Encounters with Ice & Wildlife
Spend your last day on the Peninsula soaking in Antarctica’s magic. Zodiac cruise past sparkling icebergs, search for orcas and humpbacks, and bid farewell to the penguin colonies before beginning your journey northward.
Day 10Northbound Across the Drake
Begin your return across the Drake Passage. Take time to relax, swap stories with fellow travelers, and join final lectures on Antarctic science and history. Watch for seabirds gliding alongside the ship.
Day 11Crossing the Drake Passage
Your last full day at sea. Reflect on your journey, edit photos, and enjoy the final moments of ocean solitude. A farewell dinner marks the end of your expedition, celebrating the adventure you’ve shared.
Day 12Ushuaia
Arrive back in Ushuaia early in the morning. After breakfast, disembark Terra Nova Adventurer, taking with you memories of an unforgettable journey to the southernmost corners of the Earth.
Day 13Day at Sea
Gallery
Questions about this trip?
Our polar specialists can compare these departures, cabins and current offers with you.
Email explore@polaradventure.com or call toll-free 1-888-611-7688.
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