The Long Way cruise: from Buenos Aires to Ushuaia

18 days
Nov 2025 - Dec 2025
SH Vega
Included: flights, hotels, transfers
Kayaking

2025

From

$20,180

per person

Your intrepid voyage begins in Argentina’s cosmopolitan capital, Buenos Aires. You’ll journey to the White Continent via the island communities of The Falklands, then head to the Antarctic Peninsula, where magnificent icebergs creak, and penguins roost in their thousands. After your polar adventures, you’ll pull into Ushuaia at the bottom of the world, and get to experience the awe-inspiring beauty of some of the planet’s most unique landscapes.

Itinerary

Day 1 | Buenos Aires, Embarkation

Argentina’s cosmopolitan capital, often dubbed 'The Paris of South America,' is a city of diverse neighbourhoods (barrios) and vibrant cafe culture. Each district has its own character - none more so than colourful La Boca, where tango dancers perform in the streets. The handsome district of Recoleta is famous for the cemetery where Eva 'Evita' Peron is buried, while ships dock into the regenerated waterfront barrio Puerto Madero.


Day 2-4 | At Sea

Sea days are rarely dull. Take the time to sit back and let the world go by. The ship’s observation decks provide stunning views of the passing ocean. A day at sea gives you the opportunity to mingle with other passengers and share your experiences of this incredible trip or head to our library which is stocked full of reference books. Get an expert’s view in one of our on-board lectures or perhaps perfect your photography skills with invaluable advice from our onboard professional photographers.


Day 5 | Saunders Island

Black-browed albatross grace the skies over this remote Falkland Island, while Commerson's dolphins play in its waters. With a sparse population of people and sheep, the island is also a sanctuary for fur seals, rockhopper penguins, Magellanic penguins and imperial cormorants, nesting amid its cliffs and the impressive Cliff Mountain. Hiking through the moss-covered terrain unveils beautiful wildflowers like pink-petalled Felton's.


Day 6 | Port Stanley

Anyone familiar with Britain’s trademark red post boxes might spot a resemblance in this British outpost. Port Stanley, on East Falkland, is the tiny capital of the Falkland Islands and is small enough to get around on foot. The Historic Dockyard Museum is devoted to maritime history and exploration. Magellanic penguins gather on the beach at nearby Gypsy Cove, and sea lions and dolphins frolic in the harbour.


Day 7-8 | At Sea

Sea days are rarely dull. Take the time to sit back and let the world go by. The ship’s observation decks provide stunning views of the passing ocean. A day at sea gives you the opportunity to mingle with other passengers and share your experiences of this incredible trip or head to our library which is stocked full of reference books. Get an expert’s view in one of our on-board lectures or perhaps perfect your photography skills with invaluable advice from our onboard professional photographers.


Day 9-10 | South Georgia

Often called the 'Galapagos of the Poles,' South Georgia has a number of landing sites with tens of thousands of King Penguins and gentoo penguins, making up some of the largest populations in the world alongside harrumphing elephant seals. Among its remarkable sites is Grytviken, the historic whaling station where legendary British explorer Ernest Shackleton (1874–1922) is laid to rest.


Day 11-12 | At Sea

Sea days are rarely dull. Take the time to sit back and let the world go by. The ship’s observation decks provide stunning views of the passing ocean. A day at sea gives you the opportunity to mingle with other passengers and share your experiences of this incredible trip or head to our library which is stocked full of reference books. Get an expert’s view in one of our on-board lectures or perhaps perfect your photography skills with invaluable advice from our onboard professional photographers.


Day 13-15 | Antarctic Peninsula

Among captivating glaciers, majestic icebergs and snowy islands, the Antarctic Peninsula is where most visitors to the White Continent live their Antarctica dream. It's the most accessible part, with scientific bases and incredible scenery, like the photogenic Lemaire Channel. Shore excursions might include Mikkelsen Harbour, where among gentoo penguins, snowy sheathbills and skuas, Antarctic Weddell seals haul out.


Day 16-17 | At Sea

Sea days are rarely dull. Take the time to sit back and let the world go by. The ship’s observation decks provide stunning views of the passing ocean. A day at sea gives you the opportunity to mingle with other passengers and share your experiences of this incredible trip or head to our library which is stocked full of reference books. Get an expert’s view in one of our on-board lectures or perhaps perfect your photography skills with invaluable advice from our onboard professional photographers.


Day 18 | Ushuaia, Disembarkation

Among captivating glaciers, majestic icebergs and snowy islands, the Antarctic Peninsula is where most visitors to the White Continent live their Antarctica dream. It's the most accessible part, with scientific bases and incredible scenery, like the photogenic Lemaire Channel. Shore excursions might include Mikkelsen Harbour, where among gentoo penguins, snowy sheathbills and skuas, Antarctic Weddell seals haul out.


Ships

SH Vega

SH Vega was named after the first ship to cross the Arctic Northeast Passage. She sails the seven seas, including the polar regions, in style and comfort. This 5-star expedition ship incorporates elegant Scandi-design with the latest in cruising technology. She has a PC5 ice-strengthened hull and extra-large stabilizers to make your journey as smooth as possible.



What's included

Included Services:

  • Group return transfers from airport to cruise port and to the hotel (where included)

  • One night pre-cruise accommodation with breakfast in a 4/5-star hotel

  • Charter flight from Ushuaia to Buenos Aires

Other Inclusions:

  • Complimentary hot & cold beverages, beer, wine & spirits any time throughout your cruise

  • In polar regions: branded parka, yours to keep and use of rubber boot

  • Waterproof backpack and refillable water bottle, yours to keep

  • Lecture programs by expedition team and guest speakers

  • Entry level WIFI (upgraded packages available)

  • One selected shore excursion per port of call

  • Onboard gratuities & port taxes

  • 24/7 self service laundry

  • Your selected stateroom

  • All expedition landings

  • 24-hour room service

  • All meals onboard

Enhance your experience

  • Additional hotel nights pre or post cruise

  • Premium and private shore excursions

  • Bespoke pre & post land programmes

  • Premium spirits & reserve wine list

  • Kayak and private Zodiac tours

  • Spa & beauty treatments

  • Laundry services

  • Retail shop

Amenities in your cabin

  • Illy Espresso coffee machine with pods

  • Individually-controlled airconditioning

  • Nikon Prostaff 3S 10x42 binoculars

  • Bathrobes and bedroom slippers

  • Towels for cabin, pool and gym

  • Minibar with soft drinks & beer

  • Kettle and Kusmi tea bags

  • Personal Safe

  • Smart HDTV

  • Toiletries


Excursions

Kayaking With Swan Hellenic Expedition Team

2 hours
Level


from

$250

per person

Kayaking in the polar regions will be mainly focused on experiencing the polar regions from water level with all your senses and without any interference from artificial sounds.

Having the unique opportunity to kayak in the world’s last great wildernesses , is often described as a spiritual experience slowing down to the rhythm of the paddles, you are able to observe and soak in the natural wonders of the polar regions like very few have experienced before you. Observe scenery, coastlines, ice formations and polar wildlife from the comfort and silence of your kayak.

Conditions permitting, your Expedition Leader and Kayak guide will make sure you will be kayaking in a safe environment .

Whilst some kayak excursions are designed to allow guests to disembark on shore and discover the area, most of the kayak excursions will be mainly focusing on experiencing the polar regions, from water level, with all your senses as there is no interference with artificial sounds.

The kayaking experience ideally starts after guests have been shuttled by Zodiac to a starting point, then transfer from the zodiac to the kayak by their own means and at the end of the Kayak excursion transfer back to the shuttle Zodiac to be brought back on board.

Besides your kayak guide who briefs the kayaking group before the excursion and afterwards leads the group there is also a Zodiac driver on a safety boat following the kayak group to offer assistance if required.

IMPORTANT

  • In the interest of allowing all guests the opportunity to experience a kayak tour, guests may pre-book one kayak excursions per cruise.

  • For those wishing to join more than one kayak excursion, we will collect names for our waiting list whilst on board and do our best to accomodate these requests.

  • Please note that our kayaks accomodate two guests - if you would lile to share with a friend or family member; please make sure that you specify this with the on board team.

  • If you are travelling alone, we will find another guest for you to share with.


Practical information

The Antarctic cruise season runs from November to March, during the Southern Hemisphere’s summer. Each month offers a unique experience:

  • November – Early Season: Pristine landscapes, fresh snowfall, and active penguin courtship.

  • December & January – Peak Season: Warmer temperatures, 24-hour daylight, and hatching penguin chicks.

  • February & March – Late Season: Best whale watching opportunities and more ice-free waters for deeper exploration.

Antarctica is home to incredible wildlife, including:

  • Penguins: Emperor, Adélie, Chinstrap, Gentoo, and more.

  • Whales: Humpback, Minke, Orca (Killer Whales), and Blue Whales.

  • Seals: Weddell, Leopard, Elephant, and Crabeater Seals.

  • Birds: Albatross, Petrels, Skuas, and more.

No visa is required for Antarctica itself, but depending on your nationality, you may need visas for Argentina or Chile, where most cruises depart from. Swan Hellenic will provide all necessary permits for landing in Antarctica as part of the IAATO (International Association of Antarctica Tour Operators) guidelines.

Despite being a frozen continent, temperatures during the cruise season are warmer than many expect, ranging from:

  • Early Season (Nov - Dec): -5°C to 5°C (23°F to 41°F)

  • Peak Season (Jan - Feb): 0°C to 8°C (32°F to 46°F)

  • Late Season (Feb - Mar): -2°C to 6°C (28°F to 43°F)
    Wind and weather conditions can change rapidly, so layering is key.

• Your passport and a copy of it!

• Cash in the applicable currency. Please check your travel documents for information about card payments on board

• Regular indoor shoes

• Sun protection

• A good pair of binoculars (ask the Cruise Norway team if they are included in your cabin)

• A small waterproof backpack

• Sunglasses with UV filter lenses

• Lip balm with UV protection

• Moisturizer

• Enough medication and other essentials to last through unforeseen delays

• Extra memory cards

• Extra batteries. Battery life can be reduced in cold climates

• Chargers

• Electrical adapters and converters if needed, please check your travel documents for information

• Sea sickness medication

• Sleeping mask

Clothing:
Layering clothes helps to keep you warm and dry. We recommend layering with wool, silk or synthetic fabrics rather than cotton. Dress code on board is casual (expedition style). Clothing should be comfortable and informal, including shoes. Dressing up for meals is not required.

• Summer clothing to wear in Buenos Aires

• Comfortable shoes for exploring South America

• Warm winter jacket

• Wind and water-resistant trousers or ski pants (some cruises require waterproof pants for landings and zodiac cruises, do not wear jeans or similar)

• Long thermal base layer

• Warm hat or headband

• Scarf or fleece tube

• Warm wool jumper and fleece jacket

• Gloves and mittens, fleece and wool

• Warm socks

Swan Hellenic’s Antarctica cruises offer daily landings and Zodiac excursions, depending on weather conditions. Activities may include:

  • Wildlife Watching: Close encounters with penguins, whales, and seals.

  • Zodiac Cruising: Exploring icebergs, glaciers, and remote shorelines.

  • Guided Hikes: Walks led by expert expedition guides.

  • Photography Workshops: Capture Antarctica’s stunning scenery.

  • Scientific Lectures: Learn from onboard experts about Antarctic history, geology, and wildlife.

Some cruises may offer optional activities such as kayaking and camping (availability varies).

Crossing the Drake Passage (between South America and Antarctica) can be rough or calm, depending on weather conditions. While some travelers experience motion sickness, Swan Hellenic’s advanced stabilized ships and onboard medical assistance help make the journey more comfortable. Those prone to seasickness may consider bringing medication or using natural remedies like ginger or acupressure bands.

For a smoother journey, some cruises offer a fly-cruise option, bypassing the Drake Passage by flying to King George Island before embarking on the ship.

Wi-Fi is available onboard but can be limited due to satellite connectivity. Internet speeds are slower than standard land-based connections, and usage may be restricted to email and basic browsing. There is no mobile phone service in Antarctica, but satellite phones are available for emergencies.

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DISCLAIMER: Rates are per person, subject to availability and can change at any time

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CRUISE NORWAY
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info@cruisenorway.com

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