For questions or to reserve:
purdue.orbridge.com
(866) 639-0079
Main Program: January 18, 2025 – January 29, 2025
Pre-Tour: January 16, 2025 – January 19, 2025
Post-Tour: January 29, 2025 – February 01, 2025

Antarctica Discovery

Embark on an unforgettable odyssey, where discovery and adventure converge on the vast canvas of the Last Continent. Immerse yourself in stark and surprising landscapes that define this breathtaking region. As you traverse Antarctica's icy expanse, witness the majestic beauty of untouched vistas—a true testament to the raw power of nature. This once-in-a-lifetime journey offers up-close encounters with a diverse array of wildlife—from penguins waddling along the snow to fur seals lounging on ice floes—that call this pristine environment home. Every moment exploring this polar wilderness defines a unique and awe-inspiring experience.


NOTE: Tour information is current as of 5/9/2024.

Program Highlights

– Cruise in elegance and comfort. Ocean Victory boasts a delicate balance between modern refinement and responsible travel. From the vessel's energy-efficient systems to its minimized carbon footprint, every detail has been meticulously crafted to ensure a minimal impact on the environments we explore.

– Get lost in luxury. Take advantage of the ship’s five-star amenities, including two hot tubs, spa, gym, spacious lounges, and outdoor bar.

– Dine in style. Savor exquisite cuisine in elegant dining spaces, featuring floor-to-ceiling windows, in both the Panorama and Beagle Restaurants.

– Explore at leisure. Ocean Victory is well-equipped with Zodiac boats and a fleet of kayaks, allowing you to discover remote coastlines and wildlife-rich areas up close. Expert guides, scientists, and lecturers seamlessly enrich the learning experience throughout the tour.

– Choose your own adventure. Join the optional Polar Camping excursion on land: with specialized performance gear and expert guidance, sleep unsheltered in a cozy bivy sack for the utmost connection to nature. Kayaking enthusiasts can join the optional Sea Kayaking outing: a one-time opportunity to explore the outstanding grandeur and magical beauty of the polar expanse by kayak. (Participants must have prior kayaking experience.) Optional activities must be booked on board the ship. Each have limited availability, are weather permitting, and extra fees apply.

What's Included

  • 1 night luxury hotel accommodations (including breakfast) in Ushuaia prior to embarkation
  • 9 nights aboard Ocean Victory including all onboard meals (with select wines and beers at lunch and dinner)
  • 24-hour self-service coffee and tea facilities onboard
  • All scheduled landings and excursions listed in the itinerary (subject to weather and ice conditions)
  • An insulated waterproof/windproof expedition parka, which is yours to keep
  • A pair of insulated rubber boots for shore landings for duration of the cruise (to be returned prior to disembarkation)
  • Access to a photographic trip log (shared with guests after the voyage via an online link)
  • All shipboard gratuities
  • All luggage porterage
  • All port fees
  • Transfers from the hotel to the ship on embarkation day
  • Airport transfers for guests arriving and departing during the suggested times

Itinerary

You are embarking on an adventure where daily activities will be determined by weather, opportunities to view wildlife, and other various elements that make up the incredibly diverse landscape. This itinerary is a general listing of activities and excursions that may happen during any part of the program.

Day 1: En Route from U.S.†
Saturday, January 18, 2025

Day 2: Arrive in Ushuaia, Argentina
Sunday, January 19, 2025
Welcome to the world's southernmost city aptly known as El Fin del Mundo (“The End of the World.”) Unwind at an exceptional property within the Cerro Alarkén Natural Reserve—a lush, nearly 250-acre protected forest rich with walking trails and endless photo opportunities.

This evening, become acquainted with fellow travelers during a welcome reception, and share in the excitement of the journey yet to unfold.
Overnight: Arakur Ushuaia Resort & Spa (R)

Day 3: Ushuaia – Embarkation
Monday, January 20, 2025
Wake up to a morning at leisure. Relax at the hotel or independently explore the charming port town of Ushuaia on foot.

Opt for an active excursion (additional fee)—a guided tour of nearby Tierra del Fuego National Park. During this four-hour walk, follow a local, English-speaking guide through the park's marked trails, and learn about indigenous flora and fauna. This excursion fills quickly, so advance registration and purchase are required. Additional information will be sent via email from Guest Services prior to departure.

Late afternoon rejoin the group for a motor coach transfer to the port where your expedition vessel, Ocean Victory, awaits.

As embarkation begins take time to unpack and become familiar with your stateroom and the ship's welcoming public spaces. Cruising through Beagle Channel, stroll the exterior viewing deck to admire the polar scenery, keeping an eye out for active marine mammals and birdlife.

Before dinner meet your spirited expedition staff as they distribute your adventure gear (jackets and boots), and share details of the activities ahead.
Overnight: Ocean Victory (B,D)

Days 4-5: Drake Passage
Tuesday, January 21, 2025 - Wednesday, January 22, 2025
The following two days feature an exciting crossing through the Drake Passage, a legendary waterway where the Atlantic, Pacific, and Southern Oceans converge. Named for 16th-century English privateer, Sir Francis Drake, this stretch of water is an ideal wildlife-spotting zone. Have binoculars in reach to look for dolphins and whales, as well as albatross, skuas and gulls.

Embrace valuable time as Ocean Victory becomes your home away from home amongst the backdrop of the pristine White Continent. Peruse the extensive selection of books in the cozy library, connect with fellow travelers in the stylish lounge, or contemplate upon the unparalleled landscape from the outdoor viewing platform.

On board, fine dining is a priority. Enjoy gourmet cuisine prepared by talented chefs, and partake in an interactive dining experience where chefs demonstrate cooking on lava rock. Between meals take advantage of the self-service coffee and tea facilities in the observation lounge, which are available 24/7.

In the evenings retire to your plush stateroom, a sanctuary of tranquility.
Overnight: Ocean Victory (B,L,D daily)

Days 6-9: South Shetland Islands | Antarctic Peninsula
Thursday, January 23, 2025 - Sunday, January 26, 2025
Emerging from the vastness of the open sea, we reach the South Shetland Islands and the Antarctic Peninsula—a playground of exploration and discovery. While the captain maximizes opportunities to anchor, the flexible daily itinerary includes a multitude of activities: Zodiac safaris and other water excursions, shore landings and hikes, and comprehensive lectures and presentations. At this time of year, long daylight hours provide ample occasion to connect deeply to this magnificent destination.

The ship's expedition team and scientists accompany each outing, offering insight as you explore the dramatic polar scenery of millennia-old ice shelves, sheer cliff faces, and permanent snow cover. You may see evidence of past and present scientific expeditions, including modern research stations, frequently occupied during the summer months.

Visit Deception Island in the South Shetland Islands archipelago, whose active volcano severely damaged research stations in 1967 and 1969. Walk among the enormous colony of chinstrap penguins that inhabit this rugged polar museum—a place where abandoned buildings and structures resemble a film set.

Back on board Ocean Victory, leisure time is cherished between exhilarating escapades. Rejuvenate in one of two hot tubs, master a workout in the well-equipped fitness room, book a luxurious spa treatment (additional fee), or join an optional sea kayaking excursion (additional fee) to further explore Antarctica's grandeur and beauty up-close. The ultra-daring adventurer can brave an optional polar plunge—a brief yet invigorating dip into icy waters off the ship's activity platform, guaranteed to be an indelible hallmark of this Antarctic voyage.
Overnight: Ocean Victory (B,L,D daily)

Days 10-11: Drake Passage
Monday, January 27, 2025 - Tuesday, January 28, 2025
As the expedition comes full circle, we retrace the route through the Drake Passage, recounting tales of exploration and discovery with fellow travelers. Engage in educational presentations by the ship's naturalists, enriching your understanding of this unblemished environment. Gather on deck for a last look at the endless panorama of ice and sea—a serene setting for retrospection and camaraderie.

The final evening on board partake in the crew's End of Voyage ceremonies that commemorate your accomplishment of touring the last remote frontier.
Overnight: Ocean Victory (B,L,D daily)

Day 12: Ushuaia – Disembarkation | Depart for U.S.
Wednesday, January 29, 2025
After breakfast guests departing during the suggested times take the complimentary transfer to the airport for flights home. (B)

†Travel time from/to U.S. may take up to two days depending on flight schedules.

B = Breakfast, L = Lunch, D = Dinner, R = Reception

(Itinerary subject to change.)

Activity Level

Moderate

This program offers a variety of activities, including shore excursions and open-air, inflatable Zodiac raft cruises. We expect that guests be sure-footed on stairs and ramps, be able to walk or hike at least one mile on uneven and slippery terrain, and be comfortable landing on various terrain and boarding small vessels—both from shore and the deck of the Ocean Victory. On board, guests should be able to manage unexpected and unpredictable motion from the movement of the ship. Expedition staff will assess shoreline conditions before each shore excursion and may recommend a modified route for guests with limited mobility.

This expedition is intended for persons in reasonably good health. Passengers who are not fit for long trips for any reason, including disability, heart or other health conditions, are advised not to join the tour, as it would entail an unreasonable risk to your enjoyment, health and safety of you and others on the expedition. All guests are required to sign a medical information sheet before boarding, to inform the medical personnel on board about any illnesses, allergies or conditions to be kept in mind during the voyage. Some conditions may require your doctor's signature to join this voyage.

Due to the remote location of this tour, you are required to have proof of adequate medical coverage on board the ship. Furthermore, medical evacuation insurance is required with a minimum coverage of $200,000. The cost of this insurance varies by guests' age and state of residence. Orbridge’s Guest Services team can assist with any questions regarding evacuation insurance.

Be sure to maintain a copy of your insurance information onboard the ship should it be necessary to present.

Accommodations

Arakur Ushuaia Resort & Spa

January 19

On the first evening before embarkation, you will stay at the elegant and state-of-the-art Arakur Ushuaia Resort & Spa, perched atop an outcrop high above Ushuaia inside the Reserva Natural Cerro Alarkén. The property boasts a design that fulfills the standards of sustainable architecture. Each room features indigenous Argentine materials, including copper, marble, stone, woods, and leather.

During free time, explore the grounds or take a short trip on a complimentary shuttle into the city for sightseeing, souvenir shopping, or dining.

Room Amenities: Individual climate control, LED TV, complimentary Wi-Fi, phone, safe, bathrobes and slippers, and en suite bathroom with sundries and hair dryer.

Ocean Victory

January 20 - January 28

Accommodating 190 guests, Ocean Victory adeptly blends aesthetics, utility, and environmental responsibility to ensure comfort, adventure, and sustainability in Antarctica.

Ocean Victory boasts the highest Polar code 6 and Ice class 1A designations, making it an ideal vessel for small-ship expedition cruising. Sturdy construction and a patented X-Bow design create excellent maneuverability and enjoyable travel by reducing seasickness, noise, and vibration. Fuel requirements are also reduced by 60% due to the special X-Bow structuring. 

All staterooms are well-appointed and feature exceptional space, amenities, and ocean views. Suite categories include exclusive complimentary amenities, including laundry service and a well-stocked mini bar.

Public areas provide a convivial atmosphere for socializing and relaxation. Admire the surrounding scenery and spot for whales from two observation lounges, the outdoor bar, or while soaking in one of two hot tubs. Seize an opportunity to dine on deck eight in the specialty restaurant offering lava stone cooking. This unique and healthy food experience dates from the times of Vikings and makes for a dynamic and satisfying pairing with beverage selections from French wine tasting menus and organic coffees and teas.

Visit the polar library and curl up with tales of intrepid Antarctic explorers. Browse the onboard boutique gift shop for souvenirs, gain educational enrichment via discussions in the lecture room, and practice self-care with fitness and wellness options, including a gym and spa facilities. 

Built with an environmental focus, this vessel implements a green initiative program using only sustainable seafood and biodegradable laundry products, and eliminates single-use plastics. Special engine controls optimize speed and fuel consumption. In addition, the ship is equipped with dynamic positioning, granting it the ability to “drop” a virtual anchor almost anywhere. It maintains precise positioning using its own propellers and thrusters. This virtual anchor helps protect the sea floor and wildlife. 

Stateroom Categories: Each stateroom offers exterior ocean views, individual climate control, two twin beds or one king bed, closets, TV, writing desk and chair, and private en suite bathroom with bathrobes, shampoo, shower gel, and hair dryer.

Albatros State (D): Porthole window; located on Decks 3 and 4; approx. 236 sq.ft.

French Balcony Suite (E): Floor-to-ceiling windows; located on Deck 7; approx. 172 sq.ft.

Balcony State (C): Private balcony with floor-to-ceiling windows; located on Decks 4 and 6; approx. 258 sq.ft.

Balcony Suite (B1): Sitting area and private balcony with floor-to-ceiling windows; located on Deck 4; approx. 376 sq.ft.

Balcony Suite/Triple/Family (B2): Sitting area and private balcony with floor-to-ceiling windows; located on Decks 4 and 6; approx. 301 sq.ft.

Junior Suite (A): Additional sofa bed, sitting area, and private balcony with floor-to-ceiling windows; located on Deck 7; approx. 452 sq.ft.

Premium Suite (PS): Two-room suite, additional sofa bed, table and chairs, and private balcony with floor-to-ceiling windows; located on Deck 4; approx. 484 sq.ft.

Single Porthole (G): Porthole window; located on Deck 3; approx. 193 sq.ft.

Triple Porthole (F): Additional sofa bed with a porthole window; located on Deck 3; approx. 236 sq.ft.

Highlights

  • All staterooms have exterior ocean views, most featuring private balconies 
  • Full-service restaurant with open seating, featuring contemporary, international cuisine prepared by talented chefs
  • Interactive dining experience available demonstrating the ancient and healthy lava rock cooking method 
  • Stylish observation lounge with complimentary 24-hour self-service coffee and tea facilities, and staffed bar serving alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages (additional fee)
  • Fully-equipped, modern lecture lounge for briefings by an expert Expedition Leader and the ship's naturalist guides
  • Cozy library with an extensive selection of books 
  • Fitness area
  • In-house spa, featuring unique polar treatments by appointment (additional fee)
  • Two hot tubs
(Accommodations subject to change.)

Optional Pre-Tour

Buenos Aires


Experience the vibrant and sultry beauty of Buenos Aires, Argentina's sophisticated capital city. Rich historic sites, charming shops and restaurants, and welcoming locals create a notable setting for leisurely exploration.

Itinerary

Day +1: En Route from U.S.†
Thursday, January 16, 2025

Day +2: Arrive in Buenos Aires, Argentina
Friday, January 17, 2025
Upon arrival settle into your five-star accommodations with time to relax and freshen up.

A thrilling evening awaits! Gather with fellow travelers for a gastronomic experience and live performance at one of Buenos Aires' most iconic theaters. Amidst the opulent surroundings dine on a tantalizing three-course dinner while musicians and performers prepare for the show. As passionate tango music ignites, the stage comes alive with a mesmerizing tango performance. Be amazed by the intensity and precision on display by the dancers, vocalists and live orchestra as they offer an unforgettable introduction to the city's cultural heartbeat.
Overnight: Alvear Palace Hotel (D)

Day +3: Buenos Aires
Saturday, January 18, 2025
After breakfast set out on a panoramic tour to discover some of the city's most iconic neighborhoods and landmarks.

Travel through the trendy Palermo district, known for its colorful street art, chic boutiques and lush parks. Continuing to Recoleta—Buenos Aires' most glamorous neighborhood—stop at Recoleta Cemetery. This serene and historic burial ground—with more than 6,400 statues, mausoleums, sarcophagi, coffins and crypts—is the final resting place for many of Argentina’s most celebrated sons and daughters, including Eva Perón. 

En route to the Plaza de Mayo pass by 9th of July Avenue, known as the world's widest boulevard. A stop at the magnificent Colón Theatre offers the perfect opportunity for photos. This world-renowned opera house is a symbol of Buenos Aires' rich cultural heritage.

Visit Café Tortoni to sample a traditional ham and cheese snack called the porteño. Afterward return to the Plaza de Mayo to see the Casa Rosada (Government House), the Metropolitan Cathedral and the Cabildo—a present-day museum that used to serve as a government building during colonial times.

The remainder of the day is at leisure. Visit museums or galleries, or simply wander the charming streets for final moments to appreciate the city's European-style architecture and welcoming shops and cafés. This evening enjoy dinner at one of the city's many fantastic restaurants or explore the Buenos Aires nightlife, perhaps even stumbling upon an impromptu tango performance.
Overnight: Alvear Palace Hotel (B, Snack)

Day +4: Buenos Aires | Flight to Ushuaia | Main Program Begins
Sunday, January 19, 2025
After breakfast take the complimentary group transfer to Aeroparque Jorge Newbery for a flight to Ushuaia to join the group for the main program. (B)

†Travel time from/to U.S. may take up to two days depending on flight schedules.

B = Breakfast, D = Dinner

NOTE: The internal flight from Buenos Aires to Ushuaia is not included in the pre-tour price.

Pre-tour space is limited. We recommend reserving early for best availability.

This pre-tour is not escorted by an Orbridge Travel Director. However, a local tour guide will be with the group throughout the stay in Buenos Aires.

(Itinerary subject to change.)

Activity Level

Moderate

Activities are generally not very strenuous, however, we expect that guests can enjoy two hours or more of walking, are sure-footed on cobbled surfaces, and can walk up and down stairs without assistance.

Accommodations

Alvear Palace Hotel

January 17 - January 19

Embrace the sophisticated elegance of this luxury five-star hotel, located in one of Buenos Aires' most regal neighborhoods. Winner of numerous "Best" awards from Traveler and Travel+Leisure, Alvear Palace Hotel provides exceptional service with a focus on social commitment—including environmental policies, volunteerism, and resource preservation.

The property hosts three restaurants and two bars, including a rooftop bar overlooking bustling Alvear Avenue.

During free time, take advantage of the wellness area, featuring steam baths, saunas, a pool, and relaxation rooms.

Room Amenities: Individual climate control, Egyptian cotton bedding, writing desk, LCD TV, complimentary Wi-Fi, phone, safe, and en suite bathroom with premium sundries and hair dryer.

(Accommodations subject to change.)

What's Included

  • 2 nights at Alvear Palace Hotel (or similar) with breakfast each morning
  • Special 3-course dinner and tango performance
  • Panoramic city tour of Buenos Aires
  • All gratuities and porterage
  • All airport and hotel transfers for guests arriving and departing during the suggested times

Optional Post-Tour

Iguazú Falls


Hold on to your hat while you experience the thundering roar and huge clouds of spray from one of the most spectacular waterfalls in the world. Spanning more than two miles, Iguazú Falls is four times the width of Niagara Falls and includes 275 separate falls.

Itinerary

Day 12: Flight to Buenos Aires
Wednesday, January 29, 2025
Upon arrival at Aeroparque Jorge Newbery take the group transfer to the hotel for a restful evening.
Overnight: Alvear Icon Hotel

Day 13: Flight to Iguazú Falls | Guided Tour
Thursday, January 30, 2025
After an early breakfast take the group transfer to Aeroparque Jorge Newbery for the included two-hour flight to Cataratas del Iguazú International Airport.

Upon arrival embark on a guided tour of the Argentinian side of Iguazú Falls. Hear the thunder of the crashing waters of the largest waterfall system in the world and feel the vapor against your skin. Choose from three different paths (depending on desired activity level): the lower path, the higher path and the “Devil’s Throat.” Listen as the local guide enlightens you about the geology, flora, fauna and local history of this amazing natural wonder.

Accommodations for this post-tour are at the Gran Meliá Iguazú—the only property with the distinction of being located within the park.
Overnight: Gran Meliá Iguazú (B,L,D)

Day 14: Iguazú Falls Tour
Friday, January 31, 2025
This morning enjoy a second guided visit to the falls. During the afternoon choose to join an optional excursion or enjoy free time on your own.

Optional Excursion: Gran Aventura Safari Boat Tour
$95 cash only; payable to your guide; no need for pre-booking
Embark in open trucks that provide unobstructed views of the scenery along the trail and observe the various flora and fauna of the jungle. Then climb aboard secure and efficient inflatable bi-motor boats to cruise up the river through the canyon. At Devil's Throat the captain will navigate through the falls for a quick and refreshing shower.
Overnight: Gran Meliá Iguazú (B)

Day 15: Iguazú Falls | Flight to Buenos Aires | Depart for U.S.
Saturday, February 1, 2025
After breakfast take the complimentary group transfer to Cataratas del Iguazú International Airport for flights to next airports and connections to home. (B)

B = Breakfast, L = Lunch

NOTE: The internal flight from Ushuaia to Buenos Aires is not included in the post-tour price. The internal round-trip flight between Buenos Aires and Iguazú Falls is included in the post-tour price.

Post-tour space is limited. We recommend reserving early for best availability.

(Itinerary subject to change.)

Activity Level

Moderate

Guests should be sure-footed on stairs and able to walk at least one mile on rocky and uneven ground, as some nature hikes will be on irregular and steep terrain.

Accommodations

Alvear Icon Hotel

January 29

Overlooking the Río de la Plata River in Puerto Madero, this five-star property exudes an atmosphere of innovative and stylish comfort. Choose from a variety of gourmet restaurants on site, as well as inviting social spaces and bars. The hotel also offers a modern fitness room, pool, sauna and steam bath.

Room Amenities: Individual climate control, Egyptian cotton bedding, TV, phone, Wi-Fi (additional fee), safe, and en suite bathroom with premium sundries and hair dryer.

Gran Meliá Iguazú

January 30 - January 31

As the only hotel found within Iguazú National Park, this modern property features an ideal location and comfortable rooms with views of the falls or the jungle. The stunning landscape provides the ideal backdrop for various outdoor activities, including swimming, tennis, hikes, and exploration.

Room Amenities: Individual climate control, flat-screen TV, minibar, safe, iron and ironing board, and en suite bathroom with sundries and hair dryer.

(Accommodations subject to change.)

What's Included

  • 1 night at Alvear Icon Hotel in Buenos Aires (or similar) and 2 nights at Gran Meliá Iguazú (or similar) with breakfast each morning
  • 1 box lunch and 1 dinner 
  • 2 guided tours of Iguazú Falls
  • All gratuities and porterage
  • All airport and hotel transfers
  • Internal round-trip airfare between Buenos Aires and Iguazú Falls

Terms and Conditions