Antarctica

September 11, 2024 by Donna Rombough

 

Out of this World

Breathe the freshest air on Earth! Explore one of the planet’s most remote destinations: a continent where there is no permanent human habitation, only human settlements where scientists live and do research for part of each year; a place where you will find the largest single piece of ice on Earth; the tip of the world where typically falls as snow; and the only continent on Earth which has no terrestrial mammals, but is home to unique wildlife, including five species of penguins! This is an explorer’s dream adventure! And only a limited number of world travellers have the once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to discover what the “White Continent” is all about.

One of the most exciting ways to explore Antarctica is aboard an expedition cruise ship. In January 2026, Craig Travel is partnering with Hurtigruten, a premier cruise line for expedition cruising. The ms Fridtjof Nansen, Hurtigruten’s latest expedition ship, is state-of-the-art, featuring cutting-edge technology with a revolutionary hybrid battery-powered propulsion system. Each expedition is guided by a specialized Expedition Team, ensuring safety, sustainability, and a deeper understanding of each destination explored. At the heart of the ship lies the Citizen Science Center, serving as both an educational hub and Expedition Team headquarters. Here, guests are invited to participate in the Citizens Science Program to assist with scientific research. Also onboard is a professional photographer offering tips on how to best capture the spectacular landscapes and amazing wildlife you won’t see anywhere else in the world!

Pool on an Antarctica cruise ship

Relax in the hot tub while enjoying stunning views of Antarctica. Photo courtesy of Hurtigruten.

Comfortable Scandinavian-inspired cabins are all outside-facing, ensuring that you don’t miss a minute of the spectacular sights, even when indoors. Panoramic views from indoor/outdoor observation decks feature an aft infinity pool and hot tubs to relax after each day of discovery on land. But the day doesn’t end here. There’s fine dining and cocktails to be enjoyed and stories to be shared with fellow adventurers. No stone has been left unturned to ensure a safe, comfortable, thrilling experience!

This adventure begins with a flight to Buenos Aires, a restful hotel night, followed by a morning flight to Ushuaia, where our expedition ship awaits. It’s “All Aboard” as the Expedition Team prepares adventurers for the endless thrills ahead, during the two-day crossing of the Drake Passage.

At first glance, Antarctica’s frozen landscapes, towering glaciers, icebergs as tall as skyscrapers and unparalleled frozen beauty, are mesmerizing. The sound of silence is profound, broken only by ice cracking on a glacier, or local wildlife doing what wildlife does. Find a quiet space onboard and listen; be alone in your own world as you take in this surreal experience for the very first time.

Whales begin to arrive in greater numbers in December and January, so have your camera ready to witness the beauty of these magnificent creatures. Take in the hatching of the first penguin chicks. Waddling penguins nonchalantly check you out before doing an elegant dive into the water. Seals crowd together on rocks, basking under the brilliant sunshine, chattering all the while. Alongside your Expedition Team, you will learn firsthand about these wonderful creatures.

Penguins swimming in Antarctica

Adorable penguins swimming  

Daily itineraries are guided by the local conditions, ensuring everyone’s safety. There are a couple of certainties, however. Each day begins with a delicious buffet breakfast overlooking the sea. Then, you’ll don your snow gear and head for the expedition vessels.  These are agile, hybrid boats, enabling silent cruising, while treading lightly on delicate ecosystems, as well as zodiacs for closer exploration.

Returning to Ushuaia at the end of this unforgettable voyage, you’ll fly back to Buenos Aires to tour this beautiful city, take in a delightful tango show, savour gourmet food and fine wines as you revel in all that you have experienced on a journey unlike any other, to the ends of the earth!
 

HIGHLIGHTS OF ANTARCTICA
Plus Buenos Aires
January 7 - January 21, 2026 | 15 Days | 35 Meals
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