Antarctica & Patagonia Expedition Cruise

Arrive in Buenos Aires

¡Bienvenido a Buenos Aires! From the moment you arrive in the Argentine capital city, you’ll be immersed in the sights and sounds of a truly magical destination. Known as the birth place of the Tango, Buenos Aires exudes passion that creates an intoxicating setting. Although rooted in a rich culture, the modern metropolis is at the center of a vibrant urban art and music scene and is the style center for Latin America.

Transfer from the Airport to Hotel

Enjoy the comfortable ride from the airport to your hotel, where you’ll check in and meet your Adventure Guides at the Adventures by Disney hospitality desk in the lobby. Then set out to explore the city on your own.

Lunch & Dinner On Your Own

Work up an appetite as you explore the wonderful sights of Buenos Aires. Savor the scintillating flavors of the region as you explore the many restaurants and cafés throughout the city. You can also ask your Adventure Guides to recommend some of their favorite dining spots.

Please note: Buenos Aires Escape Guests will continue with their extended pre-Expedition Cruise program on this day and will join the rest of the Antarctica & Patagonia Expedition Cruise Guests on Day 2.

Breakfast at the Hotel

Enjoy a hearty breakfast before your flight to Ushuaia.

Transfer from Hotel to Ezeiza International Airport for Flight to Ushuaia Airport

Take a coach to Ezeiza International Airport (EZE) for your internal flight to Ushuaia Airport (USH).

Arrive in Ushuaia

Welcome to the capital of Tierra del Fuego and the southernmost city in South America. Enjoy exploring the lush landscape of this lovely city that sits between the Andes Mountains and the Beagle Channel—named after the boat on which Charles Darwin visited the area in 1833.

Morning & Afternoon Activities:

Guests will experience all of the different elements at various times throughout the day. Grouping and timing will provided by your Adventure Guides in destination.

Tierra del Fuego National Park

Set against a backdrop of majestic mountains and glacier valleys, Tierra del Fuego National Park encompasses 160,000 acres of stunning natural landscapes that range from lush forests, crystal clear lakes, rugged mountains and beautiful beaches.

End of the World Train

Ride the rails of the world’s southernmost functioning railway on a private ride just for you and your fellow Adventurers. This former prison train now takes passengers on a unique ride through the stunning Patagonia landscape and includes a stop at the historic La Macarena Station.

End of the World Post Office & Nature Walk

Stroll through the dramatic scenery that makes up Tierra del Fuego National Park. Marvel at the magnificent bodies of water, lush forests and majestic mountains found in this magical place.

When you come to the end of the road, you’ll have the opportunity to send friends and family back home a postcard with a coveted postmark from one of the most remote places on Earth—the Post Office at the End of the World. The small shanty, built on stilts and constructed of corrugated metal and wooden piles is the southernmost post office in the world.

Lunch in Ushuaia

Enjoy a taste of local flavors at a restaurant located near the Tierra del Fuego National Park.

Following lunch, Guests will continue with the activities listed above

Arrive at the Ship & Explore

Settle into your cabin, then head out to explore the ship—your home for the next 10 days—and its amazing features, which include:

• Two restaurants, each with a distinct atmosphere that offer an array of delicious dishes that are sure to please all appetites
• A heated, saltwater pool
• Spa & Fitness Center
• Common areas that provide cozy and relaxing spaces to meet up and socialize, plus a special area for Junior Adventurers to meet up and hang out
• And much more to discover!

Shipboard Welcome & Orientation

Gather on board the ship with your fellow adventurers for a welcome and orientation where you’ll learn about the amazing Expedition Cruise that awaits.

Dinner on the Ship

Dine at leisure at either of 2 onboard restaurant options that will satisfy any appetite.

Entertainment on the Ship

Enjoy a variety of nightly entertainment onboard the ship.

Breakfast on the Ship

Enjoy a hearty breakfast before heading out for a day of adventure in Ushuaia.

Full-Day Excursions & Lunch – Guests Will Select One Option

Option A: Catamaran Excursion with Harberton Settlement  Tour & Lunch

Cruise through the dramatic scenery of Beagle Channel—named after the boat Charles Darwin sailed on during his visit to the region in 1831—on a private 3-hour motorized catamaran ride where you’ll keep watch for sea lions, an array of birds and penguin colonies along the way. You’ll also do some glacier spotting and make a few photo stops of local wildlife on your way to Harberton Settlement.

Spend time exploring Harberton Settlement, a former mission founded in 1886 by British missionary Thomas Bridges, set amid rolling green hills and the snow-capped Andes mountains. Currently, the Tierra del Fuego landmark, which resembles an English country estate, is owned by descendants of the original mission. While at Harberton Settlement, you’ll explore the historic sheep-shearing and wooden boat museums, marine mammal museum and enjoy a nature walk through their private nature reserve.

For lunch, you’ll dine at Harberton Settlement in their restaurant that offers magnificent views of the sea, as well as the gorgeous surrounding scenery.

Option B: Husky Kennel Visit, Harberton Settlement & Catamaran Excursion with Lunch on Catamaran

Take a private motor coach to Harberton Settlement with a stop along the way at a husky kennel where you’ll enjoy a lovely nature walk on the kennel grounds and have an opportunity to play with the husky pups while learning about their importance in this region.

Continue your adventure at Harberton Settlement, a former mission founded in 1886 by British missionary Thomas Bridges, set amid rolling green hills and the snow-capped Andes mountains. Currently, the Tierra del Fuego landmark, which resembles an English country estate, is owned by descendants of the original mission. While at Harberton Settlement, you’ll explore the historic sheep-shearing and wooden boat museums, marine mammal museum and enjoy a nature walk through their private nature reserve.

After your visit to Harberton Settlement, you’ll have a casual lunch on board the catamaran, then head out to sea for a private motorized catamaran tour of Beagle Channel and its magnificent scenery and array of local wildlife on the way back to Ushuaia.

Option C: Harberton Settlement & Catamaran Excursion with Lunch on Catamaran

Take a private motor coach ride to Harberton Settlement where you’ll enjoy a tour of this former mission founded in 1886 by British missionary Thomas Bridges, set amid rolling green hills and the snow-capped Andes mountains. Currently, the Tierra del Fuego landmark, which resembles an English country estate, is owned by descendants of the original mission. While at Harberton Settlement, you’ll explore the historic sheep-shearing and wooden boat museums, marine mammal museum and enjoy a nature walk through their private nature reserve.

When it’s time for lunch, you’ll dine aboard the catamaran before heading out to sea for a private motorized catamaran tour of Beagle Channel and its magnificent scenery and array of local wildlife on the way back to Ushuaia.

Option D: On Your Own Time & Lunch in Ushuaia and on Ship

Spend a relaxing day exploring the amazing city of Ushuaia. Soak up the local vibe as you explore this quaint resort town, checking out local sights like the waterfront area, the general store, or the many cafés, shops, museums and restaurants that line the streets. You can also discover a new favorite dining spot for a delicious lunch of local dishes.

You may also choose to stay on board the ship and explore some of its features and amenities, including lunch on board the ship.

Sail Away Party

Bid Argentina a fond adios, as you and your fellow Adventurers depart Ushuaia via the Beagle Channel and sail into open water of the Drake Passage.

Dinner on the Ship

Dine at leisure in one of the 2 restaurants on board the ship where you’ll find something to satisfy all appetites.

Entertainment on the Ship

Enjoy a variety of nightly entertainment on board the ship.

Please note: Activities may vary and will be confirmed at the Adventure Awaits daily update in the theater, as well as in the daily shipboard program.

Breakfast on the Ship

Enjoy a delicious at leisure breakfast on board the ship as you make your way across the Drake Passage on your journey to Antarctica.

Crossing the Drake Passage

Crossing the Drake Passage is a rite of passage for any seafaring adventurer. Depending on the current weather and sea conditions, the voyage can be rough, calm or somewhere in between. During the crossing, sea sickness is possible and medication is highly recommended.

During the 2-day crossing, onboard activities and gatherings for Adventures by Disney Guests will be planned, however, they are subject to change depending on weather and sea conditions, which may also change throughout the crossing.

Onboard Activities Include:

• Meet the Naturalists: Get to know the experts who will guide your explorations of the pristine beauty and diverse wildlife of this unique polar destination.


• Ship Tour & Bridge Visit: Get to know the ship—your home at sea—including a visit to the bridge, where you’ll learn how the captain and crew navigate the waters around the Antarctic Peninsula.


• Fitness Class/Spa Appointments: Shape up or power down as you take advantage of a host of fitness classes and an array of soothing spa treatments. Opens a dialog with important information about add-on spa treatments.See important details


• Iceberg Spotting Contest: Play lookout and see if you can be the first to spot an iceberg in the waters around you.


• “I Survived the Drake Passage Party”: Celebrate a true aquatic rite of passage—your successful crossing of the Drake Passage!


• Rest, Relax & Recharge: Take advantage of all the amazing amenities the ship has to offer whether it’s a fun, family activity, watching a Disney movie or just vegging out and fueling up for your next excursion.

Lunch on the Ship

Dine at leisure in one of the 2 onboard restaurants where you’re sure to find something delicious for the whole family.

Exploration Preparation Sessions

Make sure you're prepared for your adventure in Antarctica with these preparation sessions:

• Parka & Boot Distribution: Adventurers receive their parkas, which they can take home with them. Boots, if you are borrowing them, will also be distributed.


• IAATO & Zodiac Briefing: Learn about the organization which oversees environmentally responsible travel to Antarctica. You’ll also get familiar with the Zodiac boats that you will take on your land excursions.


• Decontamination Session: In our efforts to maintain the integrity of Antarctica’s pristine, fragile ecosystem and in accordance with IAATO guidelines, it is mandatory that all visitors to Antarctica decontaminate their outer clothing layer on the first day at sea. Guests will learn how to vacuum their own clothing—especially Velcro—as well as learn about Boot Decontamination Baths and Boot Scrubbings, which are mandatory before and after each land excursion.

Dinner on the Ship

Dine at leisure in one of the 2 restaurants on board the ship where you’ll find something to satisfy all appetites.

Evening Activities on the Ship

There’s always a fun evening activity on board. Whether it’s a special Junior Adventurer Disney Movie Night, cocktail making for the adults or something for the whole family, like Disney Trivia Night.

Please note: Activities may vary and will be confirmed at the Adventure Awaits daily update in the theater, as well as in the daily shipboard program.

EVERY DAY IS A UNIQUE ADVENTURE

Spontaneity is key on your Antarctica & Patagonia Expedition Cruise. Nature takes center stage on this expedition as ice and weather conditions will determine how the Captain and Expedition Leader plan the day’s excursions—which means that every day is a new adventure offering unique opportunities to explore this pristine natural environment and the wildlife that inhabits it “in the moment.”

Daily itineraries will be shared during the previous evening’s Adventure Awaits program in the theater, as well as in the daily program that is distributed each night.

Please note: Excursions and activities may change due to ice and weather conditions. Your Adventure Guides will keep you updated on any changes.

DAILY EXCURSIONS

Each day will ideally feature 2 excursions, pending weather conditions—morning and afternoon. The fluid schedule allows us to experience once-in-lifetime moments unfold before you. You’ll definitely want to keep your camera at the ready so you can capture all the momentous memories you’ll capture—maybe even a selfie with penguin!

Some possible excursions include:

• Zodiac Wildlife Lookout: Ride across the glacial waters in search of local wildlife—penguins often swim and dive alongside the boat, or marvel at the sheer power of an Orca as it breaches the water’s surface.


• Zodiac Cruise to Antarctic Peninsula: Board a Zodiac boat and cruise across the water to a place few have gone before—Antarctica! Step foot on the 7th continent and explore this terrain that is unlike any place on Earth.


• Hilltop Hike: Experience breathtaking panoramic views of Antarctica’s natural beauty on a hike that is customizable to your comfort level ranging from easy to more strenuous.


• Penguin Colony Walk: Walk along the “penguin highway” —the paths penguins create to go to and from the sea—as you observe their nesting rituals or watch as they teach their newborns survival skills in the colony.


• Iceberg Observation: Get an up-close look at a massive, towering iceberg.

PREMIUM KAYAKING EXCURSION ADD-ON

For Guests that want a unique adventure that offers the opportunity for an up-close experience with wildlife and icebergs, a premium kayaking excursion add-on is the perfect opportunity. For an additional fee, this extremely popular activity with a very limited capacity offers a new and different opportunity to experience local wildlife and the magnificent landscapes of Antarctica. Opens a dialog with important information about the premium kayaking excursion add-on.See important details

SHIPBOARD ACTIVITIES

Onboard activities offer fun and informative entertainment for Guests of all ages—including special activities for our Junior Adventurers, as well as some Adult-Only activities. Activities may include:

• Wildlife Viewing: Gather on deck as you cruise the sea in search of wildlife in their natural habitat. Keep an eye out for penguins, orcas, seals and more.


• Adventure Prep with the Naturalists: Get a deeper understanding of Antarctica through special presentations and workshops with the experts who will guide your explorations of the pristine beauty and fascinating wildlife of this amazing destination.


• Ship Tour & Bridge Visit: Get to know the ship—your home at sea—including a visit to the bridge, where you’ll learn how the captain and crew navigate the waters around the Antarctic Peninsula.


• AntarcTiki Deck Party: Gather on the observation deck for a tiki-themed party hosted by your Adventure Guides, where you’ll enjoy a special cocktail and fun photo ops.


• Fitness Classes: Get your blood pumping as you energize your mind, body and soul with some fabulous fitness classes.


• Spa Appointments: Pamper yourself with a variety of luxurious spa treatments offered in our onboard spa. Please note that spa treatments are offered at an additional fee. 


• Tea Time with Music & Games: Head to the lounge for a relaxing afternoon tea as you play fun games with your fellow Adventurers.


• Pool Party: Soak up some fun at a pool party on deck where you can take a dip in the heated pool while you watch icebergs float by.


• Disney Trivia Contest: Put your Disney knowledge to the ultimate test as you go head-to-head with other Adventures in a fun-filled Disney-themed trivia contest.


• Disney Movie Night: Watch some of your favorite Disney movies in the theater. There will also be special Junior Adventure movie nights.


• Talent Show: You’re the star as you showcase your talents to the delight of the other Guests.

DAY 9

Following the afternoon excursion, you’ll set sail for Ushuaia.

MEALS

Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner are all included and are at leisure in either of the ship’s 2 restaurants.

Breakfast on the Ship

Enjoy a delicious at leisure breakfast on board the ship as you make your way across the Drake Passage on your journey back to Ushuaia.

Crossing the Drake Passage

Crossing the Drake Passage is an adventure unto itself. Depending on the current weather and sea conditions, the voyage can be rough, calm or somewhere in between. During the crossing, sea sickness is possible and medication is highly recommended.

During the 2-day crossing, onboard activities and gatherings for Adventures by Disney Guests will be planned, however, they are subject to change depending on weather and sea conditions, which may also change throughout the crossing.

Daily Onboard Activities Throughout the Day May Include:

• Adventure Recaps: Attend fascinating and immersive presentations led by naturalists as you recap your amazing adventure to Antarctica.


• Photo Swap & Email Exchange: Swap photos, email addresses and social media handles with your new friends that you and your family have made during your adventure so you can keep in touch after you get home.


• Fitness Class/Spa Appointments: Take advantage of a host of fitness classes and an array of soothing spa treatments.


• Ship Tour & Bridge Visit: Get to know the ship—your home at sea—including a visit to the bridge, where you’ll learn how the captain and crew navigate the waters around the Antarctic Peninsula.


• AntarcTiki Deck Party: Gather on the observation deck for a tiki-themed party hosted by your Adventure Guides, where you’ll enjoy a special cocktail and fun photo ops.


• Tea Time with Music & Games: Head to the lounge for a relaxing afternoon tea as you play fun games with your fellow Adventurers.


• Pool Party: Soak up some fun at a pool party on deck where you can take a dip in the heated pool while you watch icebergs float by.


• Disney Trivia Contest: Put your Disney knowledge to the ultimate test as you go head-to-head with other Adventures in a fun-filled Disney-themed trivia contest.


• Disney Movie Night: Watch some of your favorite Disney movies in the theater. There will also be special Junior Adventure movie nights.


• Talent Show: You’re the star as you showcase your talents to the delight of the other Guests.

Lunch on the Ship

Dine at leisure in one of the 2 onboard restaurants where you’re sure to find something delicious for the whole family.

Crossing the Drake Passage

Daily Onboard Activities Continue

Farewell Reception on the Ship

Join your fellow Adventurers for a farewell reception as you tell tales and swap stories about the amazing adventure you just shared in Antarctica and Patagonia.

Dinner on the Ship

Dine at leisure in one of the 2 restaurants on board the ship where you’ll find something to satisfy all appetites.

Evening Activities on the Ship

Enjoy your final evening on board the ship with entertainment options including music and dancing in the lounge, or one last karaoke night for the whole family in the theater!

Please note: Activities may vary and will be confirmed at the Adventure Awaits daily update in the theater, as well as in the daily shipboard program.

Arrive in Ushuaia

Welcome back from your amazing Expedition Cruise!

Transfer from Ship to Ushuaia Airport

Disembark the ship and transfer to Ushuaia Airport (USH).

Fly from Ushuaia to Buenos Aires to Begin Your Journey Home

Take a morning flight from Ushuaia to Ezeiza International Airport (EZE) in Buenos Aires for your return flight home. To assure a comfortable connection in Buenos Aires, your evening flight should not be scheduled any time prior to 8:00 PM.