Ultimate Antarctica and the Fjords of Southern Chile

Welcome to Buenos Aires – the “Paris of South America.” Enjoy an overnight hotel stay and discover highlights such as the colorful artist quarter La Boca and the historic San Telmo, known for tango, antiques, and traditional Asado.

Fly from Buenos Aires to Ushuaia on the main island of Tierra del Fuego – the southernmost city in the world. On board your ultra-luxury Discovery Yacht, the Scenic Eclipse, you’ll be warmly welcomed by the captain and crew. Toast to the start of your once-in-a-lifetime expedition as you leave South America and cruise through the calm, scenic Beagle Channel, named after the ship on which Charles Darwin spent five years exploring. Enjoy the spectacular views of the Andes from your private veranda or from the Observation Deck overlooking the bow.

Cross the Drake Passage on your way to Antarctica. Enjoy breakfast in your suite or at the Yacht Club. The Polar Discovery Team provides an introduction to the expedition and Zodiac excursions. Spot your first icebergs from the Observation Deck and keep an eye out for whales. Your team of experts—biologists, historians, and geologists—accompanies you with fascinating insights.

Open the doors to your veranda suite and marvel at icebergs and majestic glacier-covered mountains. Look out for albatrosses, petrels, and giant storm petrels—the Antarctic is a paradise for bird lovers. Daily excursions depend on weather and ice conditions. Your captain and Discovery Team design the itinerary flexibly to make the most of the long daylight hours. Possible destinations include: Portal Point – former British shelter, Deception Island – active volcano with penguin colonies, and Lemaire Channel – a breathtaking passage with steep rock walls and icebergs. Watch whales (minke, humpback, orcas) and millions of penguins (Adélie, chinstrap, gentoo, and occasionally emperor penguins) up close—on foot, by Zodiac, kayak, or SUP. In between, relax in the Observation Lounge, spa, or during a yoga session. Culinary highlights await at up to ten restaurants. A special moment: the Polar Plunge—a jump into icy water followed by hot chocolate or whiskey, a thrilling and unforgettable experience, even for spectators.

On your return through the Drake Passage, enjoy the onboard luxury and reflect on your experiences. Start your day with breakfast served by your butler, a fitness session, or yoga. Visit the open bridge and sip fine drinks in the Scenic Lounge Bar. Treat yourself to a spa experience before the journey ends. In Ushuaia, the “End of the World,” your expedition concludes with mountain and Beagle Channel views.

Sail around the legendary Cape Horn, where the Atlantic and Pacific Oceans meet—a hotspot for seals, penguins, and whales. Continue through the Murray Channel, named after British officer Captain John Murray. Watch for albatrosses and seabirds. In the modern theater, the Discovery Team presents an introduction to the upcoming expedition days and explains Zodiac excursions. During the day, enjoy insightful lectures and films; in the evening, world-class shows and entertainment.

Navigate the labyrinth of Chilean fjords—narrow inlets, steep cliffs, channels, and glacier-shaped islands. From the Observation Deck, admire the dramatic peaks, waterfalls, and dense forests of this untouched wilderness. Visit Seno Garibaldi, one of the few advancing glaciers, and Seno Pia Glacier, where you’ll witness crevasses and meltwater streams. This area is a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve and home to seals, sea lions, and seabirds, including the mighty Andean condor. The expert Discovery Team—geologists, historians, ornithologists, marine biologists, and glaciologists—shares their deep knowledge throughout your journey.

Cruise the tranquil and scenic Beagle Channel, named after Charles Darwin’s expedition ship. From the ultra-luxury Scenic Eclipse, enjoy panoramic views of the Andes. Continue through the 64-kilometer-long Cockburn Channel, famous for its glacier panoramas. Look out for seals, dolphins, and whales often spotted here. Relax in a cabana on Deck 10 or let your butler serve afternoon tea in your suite as you watch the spectacular scenery drift by from your private veranda.

Experience the impressive Águila and Cóndor Glaciers, part of the Darwin Mountain Range in Alberto de Agostini National Park. This third-largest park in Chile features fjords, glaciers, and ice fields between subpolar forests and snow-capped peaks. Marvel at the ancient ice formations flowing from the mountains into the sea. Particularly beautiful is the Águila Glacier, descending into a mineral-rich lagoon that attracts abundant wildlife.

Stand on the Observation Terrace as the Scenic Eclipse glides through the narrow Magdalena and Gabriel Channels, surrounded by high cliffs and pristine wilderness. The Tucker Islands in the Strait of Magellan are home to Magellanic penguins and seabirds such as skuas and petrels.

Cruise the majestic Admiralty Sound, home to leopard and elephant seals, surrounded by snow-capped peaks, wide bays, and spectacular fjords in Alberto de Agostini National Park. Zodiac landings in remote Ainsworth Bay allow close-up views of massive glaciers and seals resting on the ice.

Travel through the picturesque Whiteside Channel and the historic Strait of Magellan, connecting the Atlantic and Pacific Oceans. Named after Portuguese explorer Ferdinand Magellan in 1520, it was the main sea route before the Panama Canal. Follow in the footsteps of explorers like Magellan and Sir Francis Drake, and learn from the Discovery Team about the maritime history of these legendary waters. In the evening, enjoy a unique cinema experience in the theater, featuring cutting-edge Cinemascope technology, a 270-degree screen, and a sparkling starry ceiling.

Punta Arenas, located at Chile’s southern tip, is the gateway to Antarctica and Torres del Paine National Park. Overlooking the Strait of Magellan, the city thrived during the California Gold Rush and became an important port. With its clean air, European architecture, and kayaking opportunities, it captivates visitors. Nearby Magdalena Island hosts a major Magellanic penguin colony. Back on board, unwind in the peaceful Senses Spa with an ESPA facial or alternative therapies like Ayurvedic massage.

Sail through the legendary Strait of Magellan and enjoy panoramic views of the rugged coast and open sea. Savor specialty tea or coffee in the Observation Lounge and watch the world pass by through Swarovski telescopes. Spend time with friends in one of the ten restaurants—choose a casual lunch at Azure Bar & Café or an elegant dinner at Elements. In the evening, enjoy a theater performance before retreating to your ultra-luxury suite and ending the day with a drink.

Discover Puerto Deseado, a charming harbor town that fascinated Charles Darwin with its remoteness and exceptional wildlife. The natural harbor is a protected area where you can spot Commerson’s and Peale’s dolphins, Magellanic and Patagonian penguins, and various seabirds. You’ll also visit Isla Pingüino (Penguin Island), home to a Magellanic penguin colony and rugged natural beauty.

After days of exploration, let the rhythm of the ocean lull you to sleep. Freshly pressed juice, steaming barista coffee, or tea are served to your door by your butler for a peaceful start to your day at sea. Thanks to the captain’s open-bridge policy, guests are welcome to learn about the advanced technology of the world’s first Discovery Yacht and watch it in operation—one of the best vantage points on board.

Explore Punta Pirámides, a UNESCO World Heritage nature reserve and breeding site for the endangered southern right whale, elephant seals, and a large sea lion colony. Orcas are also frequently seen, and migratory shorebirds make regular stops. Take part in daily Discovery excursions and consult your experienced Discovery leader for photo tips and wildlife spotting advice. Capture unforgettable moments while Zodiac cruising, kayaking, or stand-up paddling.

Relax onboard with fitness, wellness, and world-class dining. Enjoy ocean views from your suite and unwind at the pool, in a cabana, or on the Sky Deck with friends.

Arrive in Montevideo, Uruguay’s lively capital with over 300 years of history and a blend of Art Deco and neoclassical architecture. The 22-kilometer Rambla coastal promenade invites exploration as many streets lead directly to it. The city celebrates its passions—meat, wine, football, and festivities—including its month-long annual Carnival.

Your unforgettable journey ends in Buenos Aires. Bid farewell to the crew and your new friends, and disembark after breakfast—carrying memories of an extraordinary adventure.