Evening departure from London Heathrow airport by British Airways flight to Buenos Aires (15 hours 25 minutes including stop in Sao Paulo).

On arrival in Buenos Aires, you will be met and transferred to the Claridge Hotel (or similar). The rest of the day is free.

Free in Buenos Aires. Sightseeing excursions can be booked locally.

Today you will fly to Ushuaia (3 hours 40 minutes). Overnight at the Albatros Hotel (or similar).

In the afternoon, board the MV Antarctic Dream for her voyage to Antarctica. Departure is scheduled for the early evening.

These two days are spent sailing the Drake Passage and you will be escorted by wandering albatrosses, storm petrels and other seabirds on your way to the South Shetland Islands.

Cruise the waters, taking in the scenic views and spotting the wildlife in their natural habitats.

King George Island is the largest of the South Shetlands and gives an early indication of what the Antarctic really is like. Visits are scheduled in Potter Bay and Aitcho Island, which is situated between Greenwich and Robert Islands. Continue with the crossing of the Bransfield and Gerlache Straits to enter Andvord Bay.

The closer you sail to Antarctica you should see plenty of wildlife. In addition to birdlife and penguins, look out for leopard seals, orcas and whales. Neko Bay is the first landing point on the White Continent. Also land at Port Lockroy.

Sail south through the narrow Lemaire Channel whose high sheer cliffs suggest that no passage could be found. Once through the channel, known as one of the most beautiful places in the world, you will be able to visit Petermann Island, the southernmost land point of this expedition. Disembark here to see a colony of Gentoo penguins. On this island you should also see some beautiful Adelie penguins, skuas and blue-eyed shags. At Plenau, you should have the opportunity to view the impressive ice-formations from your zodiacs.

Today marks the start of the northbound journey. Weather permitting you will have a zodiac tour in Paradise Bay, and later to Cuverville Island which, apart from its dramatic scenery, is home to a large colony of Gentoo penguins and skuas.

Sail to Deception Island. During the morning it is hoped to stop at Whaler’s Bay and Pendulum Cove where you can try the unique experience of swimming in this water! In the afternoon, disembark at Hannah Point, one of the best places to see penguins and skuas, and with luck, sea-elephants.

Return from Antarctica across the Drake Passage.

Sail the waters across the Drake Passage, towards Ushuaia.

Disembark in Ushuaia. Fly to Buenos Aires. Overnight at the Claridge Hotel (or similar).

Depart from Buenos Aires by British Airways to London (again with a touchdown in Sao Paulo.)

Morning arrival at Heathrow.