Unforgettable Adventure to Antarctica with Swan Hellenic

Pre-Embarkation:

Arriving in the bustling city of Buenos Aires after our 35-hour journey from Perth, Australia, we were excited to dive into the adventure that awaited us. We had arrived a couple of days earlier than our departure to Ushuaia to account for any potential delays. During our time in Buenos Aires, we indulged in numerous steakhouses or 'Parrillas' where we sampled the local chorizo, steak and sangria. My local contact Cesar Zelaya from buenosairestourvip.com provided both our airport transfers as well as hosted a fantastic city tour.

Our included pre-departure hotel was the Alvear Icon, situated along the coast in a vibrant Puerto Madero filled with restaurants and bars, each boasting ample screens to enjoy watching the soccer World Cup. The excitement in Argentina was palpable when they won the semi-final game during our stay.

Day 1: Getting to Ushuaia
The morning of our departure to Ushuaia started early. We had placed our luggage outside our door the previous night for it to be loaded onto the bus. After grabbing breakfast, we boarded the bus and made our way to the airport. The flight to Ushuaia lasted just under 4 hours, affording us the opportunity to take in the Maritel mountains as we descended into the town "at the End of the world". Upon leaving the airport, we hopped on another bus that brought us to the ship, where we were welcomed with champagne and canapés.

Day 2 & 3: Drake Passage
Days 2 and 3 marked our journey to Antarctica, and everyone was brimming with excitement about what lay ahead. During the sea days, we engaged in various lectures and group activities to familiarize ourselves with the procedures for disembarking from the ship and exploring the land. Our boots were fitted during this time and placed in our designated lockers. The lectures covered a range of topics, from the history of the Antarctic Continent to whale migration patterns. We were fortunate to experience a smooth sailing on the Drake Passage en route. Some passengers experienced motion sickness but managed it with remedies such as ear patches and medication.

Day 4: South Shetland Islands
Day 4 marked our first opportunity to witness icebergs and catch a glimpse of the wildlife we would encounter in the upcoming days. I opted for the kayaking excursion offered on board, contingent on weather conditions, which turned out to be an amazing experience. It provided a chance to get up close to the landscape and wildlife. Our guide was exceptionally knowledgeable and made everyone feel at ease. Dry suits were provided, ensuring that coming into contact with water wouldn't be an issue.

Day 5-8: Antarctic Peninsula & Elephant Island
Days 5 to 8 were filled with wildlife sightings, from humpback whales to countless penguin colonies. We disembarked at multiple locations, including Cuverville Island, Portal Point, Mikkelsen Harbour, and Lindblad Cove. The sheer beauty of our surroundings left everyone in awe. Elephant Island, an ice-covered, mountainous island off the coast of Antarctica in the outer reaches of the South Shetland Islands, provided us with a ship cruise on a clear blue day, offering great photo opportunities and birdlife sightings.

Day 9-10: At Sea
Our next two days at sea took us northward toward South Georgia. We participated in more educational lectures regarding the island's history and what to expect.

As Christmas approached, the staff organized a talent show, encouraging both staff and passengers to get involved. The days at sea allowed us to make use of the onboard facilities while indulging in the food. The hot tub and swimming pool were popular spots to take a dip while admiring icebergs drifting past the ship. Additionally, the ship's bridge opened its doors for tours, providing insight into the ship's operational side.

Day 11-13: South Georgia
South Georgia, an island in the South Atlantic Ocean, is part of the British Overseas Territory of South Georgia and the South Sandwich Islands. On Christmas Day, we landed at Jason Harbour, Ocean Harbour, Moltke Harbour, and Grytviken. It's hard to convey the abundance of wildlife on this island. Every step you took, you'd encounter a penguin, seal, or bird nearby.

Day 14-16: At Sea Back to Ushuaia
Disembarkation: Unfortunately, due to adverse weather conditions, we experienced a 12 hour delay in returning to the port in Ushuaia. I strongly advise you plan at least an extra day in Buenos Aires post voyage to reduce the stress of any potential delays, its a phenomenal city and well worth spending some extra time anyway.

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