Antarctic Circle Expedition
16-day all-inclusive Antarctica expedition cruise with round-trip flights from Buenos Aires
Join us as we attempt to navigate through the sea ice and below the Antarctic Circle to reveal The Seventh's Continent's secret realm.
Milder summer weather means we'll aim to journey below the Antarctic Circle to the secluded and magnificent Marguerite Bay.
Enjoy whale spotting, seeing young penguins, hiking, kayaking, ice-cruising, and even camping on the Antarctic snow.
Join the Expedition Team as they lead you on a journey of learning and adventure.
Antarctic Adventures
Join your Expedition Team for ice-cruising activities, shore landings, and fascinating lectures. You'll get close to colossal glaciers and icebergs. We'll observe Antarctic wildlife in their habitat: colonies of penguins, seals, whales, and seabirds, maybe even kayaking or hiking past them.
South of the Antarctic Circle
During the Antarctic summer, new routes through the sea ice below the Antarctic Circle become possible. Aboard your hybrid-powered ice-class expedition ship, we'll set course for Marguerite Bay and islands along the way, looking out for Adélie penguins and visiting remote historical stations.
Expedition SuitesExploration, Enhanced
Key Expedition Details
Itinerary
Your adventure at a glance. Daily highlights, included activities, and optional extras to make it unforgettable.
Feel the rhythm of bustling Buenos Aires
Home to a proud and diverse community of porteños, or ‘people of the port’, Buenos Aires is a sensuous fusion of faded European splendour and Latin American panache. An overnight stay in Buenos Aires is the ideal way to start your Antarctic adventure.
There are plenty of places to explore, including many parrillas serving authentic Argentine steak. Or maybe you’d like to practise your dance moves in the famous hometown of the tango.
Why not consider arriving a few days early to see all this vibrant city has to offer or join our optional pre-voyage programme to explore the Tierra del Fuego region.
Fly to Ushuaia and start your adventure
Your adventure begins with an early morning flight to Ushuaia, where we'll meet your hybrid-powered expedition ship, specially designed for exploring polar waters.
This bustling port is the capital of Argentina’s Tierra del Fuego Province. Set against the magnificent backdrop of the Martial Glacier, Ushuaia vies for the title of the world’s southernmost city.
After a briefing from your Expedition Team, you’ll have time to settle into your cabin and explore the comforts and amenities on board.
Centre on science and learning before your Antarctic adventure
On the two-day crossing through the Drake Passage, the Expedition Team will equip you with all you need to make the most of your polar expedition cruise.
Visit the onboard Science Centre and find out what lies ahead. Listen to experts talk passionately about Antarctica’s history, the science beneath the ice, and the impact of climate change and plastic pollution. You'll learn how to make your visit as safe and as low-impact as possible, and about the citizen science projects you can join.
There's plenty of time to relax, so unwind in the spa and wellness area, enjoy some delicious cuisine, and meet fellow travellers in the Explorer Lounge & Bar.
Experience Antarctica in all its natural majesty
Nothing quite prepares you for it. Surrounded by looming glaciers, and icebergs the size of floating cathedrals, Antarctica will fill you with wonder.
Large groups of penguins huddle on the ice floes, avoiding the cunning leopard seals that hunt them. Majestic, migrating whales glide among amazing icebergs, hunting the shoals of krill they feed on. Bird enthusiasts should look skywards to spot some of the many species of Antarctic seabirds that live here, such as skuas, cormorants, petrels, and terns.
Here, nature is king, and we are mere observers. Our experienced Captain will continually monitor conditions to create the best possible itinerary for your adventure. You’ll spend an exciting 11 days busily exploring several of the many possible landing sites. Rest assured, each day will offer something different and thrilling.
Crossing the Antarctic Circle and continuing well south to Marguerite Bay, we’ll explore various islands along the way. You'll join the Expedition Team on landings and ice-cruises whenever opportunities present themselves. You may even get a chance to go kayaking among the icebergs.
Back on board, the Expedition Team will continue their lectures, helping you grow in your insights into the frozen continent.
Reflect on your adventure
After nine days of exhilarating exploration, your expedition cruise, taking in the wonders and wildlife of Antarctica, nears its end. As we make the return trip to Ushuaia, enjoy this time at sea.
Join the Expedition Team in the Science Centre to delve into areas of interest in more depth and contribute your observations to citizen science projects. Enlist the help of the Expedition Team to help identify species captured in your photos.
Relax with a treatment in the spa and wellness space or take in the fresh sea air from the on-deck hot tubs. Spend time in the Explorer Lounge & Bar with the new friends you’ve made on your trip, sharing experiences over a relaxing drink.
Enjoy an expedition finale in Buenos Aires
Your expedition cruise ends in Ushuaia, the main city in Tierra del Fuego, Argentina’s southernmost province. From here, you’ll take a flight back to Buenos Aires, but it doesn’t have to be the end of your adventure.
Why not join our optional post-voyage programme before heading home.
Attempt
- - - Attempted route, ice conditions dependent
Our Attempts are voyages where we challenge the elements in true expedition style. As we explore these remote and captivating areas in a safe way, our adventure will ultimately be guided by nature. If weather, sea or ice conditions do not allow our planned navigation, our experienced crew will deliver an adapted itinerary. Flexibility and our deep knowledge of the area combine to give you an amazing exploration experience.
What's included?
Included activities & excursions
These activities are included with your trip. Our Expedition Team will confirm timings once you’re on board. Selected activities can also be booked before departure.
Optional extras
Enhance your journey with optional extras. Some activities are only bookable onboard and can’t be reserved online or by phone. Subject to availability.
Our Antarctica ships
Get a taste of what life is like on board the ships that sail on this itinerary
Expedition Suites
Exploration, Enhanced
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I book my international flights with HX?
Yes. International flights aren't included in the standard package, but our flight team can arrange flights from most regional airports to help you reach your embarkation port. You're also welcome to book your own — but there are good reasons to let us handle it.
Flights coordinated with your expedition
Your flight schedule is planned around ship operations and charter flights, helping each leg of your journey connect with your voyage.
Support when plans change
If a flight is delayed, cancelled, or rescheduled, our team will work with the airline on your rebooking. If a significant schedule change means you can no longer arrive in time for your ship, we'll arrange a suitable alternative at no extra cost, subject to the applicable arrangements.
If you book your international flights independently, we cannot assist with rebooking those flights. Any changes and associated costs will be your responsibility or may need to be covered by your travel insurance. Delays could also affect your ability to reach your ship in time.
A dedicated team to help you
Our flight team monitors your travel arrangements and helps manage disruption. If something changes, we'll work with you to find a solution and keep your expedition plans on track.
Flight options to suit your journey
We can arrange flights from most regional airports to help you reach your embarkation port. Changes to your departure airport and cabin upgrades may also be possible, subject to airline rules, availability, and additional costs where applicable.
Why do I need to complete a Medical Screening Form?
Due to the remote nature of our expeditions to Antarctica, it’s important for us to be aware of any health concerns. To prioritise the health and safety of our guests and crew, a Medical Screening Form is required for expeditions to Antarctica. For more detailed information on this topic, click here.
What is the Medical Screening Form Promise?
Our promise to you is that if your Medical Screening Form is declined for medical reasons as determined by Vikand Solutions, we will refund you of all bookings made by HX up until the date of declinature. This includes all applicable flights, hotels and ground transportation. Rebookings can be made at no additional cost, subject to applicable booking conditions.
For more detailed information on this topic, click here.
How do I complete the Medical Screening Form?
We require all guests (including children) to submit and complete the Medical Form prior to departure to Antarctica.
Complete the form online through the Vikand Medical portal. It includes sections for both you and your doctor to fill out. You can begin the process up to 120 days before your sailing start date. Group bookings: access opens 90 days before your sailing start date. To start, Vikand will verify your name against our passenger list. If your name isn’t found, please contact HX or your local travel agent(if you booked through one) to ensure your name has been added to the booking exactly as it appears on your passport. For Doctor’s section - if your doctor can't sign the form, please consult an alternative or use Vikand’s online doctor service.
To make sure you receive important updates about your Medical Screening Form, we’ll send a verification email to the address you provided. Please check your inbox (and Spam/Junk folders) and click the verification link to continue. Once verified, you can complete the Guest Section of the form. If you don’t receive the email, try using an alternative address for future updates.
Please note: We only accept the Medical Screening Form available through Vikand portal and has been specially designed for HX sailings to remote destinations.
How do I travel to and from Ushuaia?
Getting to Ushuaia is a two-stage journey. You'll first take an international flight to Buenos Aires — these aren't included in the standard package, but we can arrange flights from most regional airports to help you reach the start of your expedition, or you're welcome to book your own. From there, you'll take an included HX charter flight to Ushuaia the following morning. We recommend staying overnight in Buenos Aires so you can begin your expedition feeling rested and allow a buffer for your connection.
Fly to Buenos Aires
Your journey begins with an international flight from your home country to Buenos Aires, the gateway city for Antarctica expeditions travelling via Ushuaia. These commercial flights are not included in the standard package, but we can arrange them for you from regional airports if you'd prefer to book through HX.
Stay overnight in Buenos Aires
We recommend arriving in Buenos Aires the day before your onward journey so you can begin your expedition feeling rested and allow a buffer for your connection. Check your travel documents or contact our team to confirm whether a pre-cruise hotel night is included in your package.
Charter flight to Ushuaia
The next morning, you'll board an HX charter flight from Buenos Aires to Ushuaia. These flights are operated by Aerolíneas Argentinas and are coordinated around your voyage schedule.
Charter flights from Buenos Aires to Ushuaia typically depart between 08:00 and 11:30. Final charter flight times are confirmed at your hotel on arrival and onboard.
Your return journey
On the return, HX charter flights from Ushuaia to Buenos Aires typically arrive by approximately 19:00. We recommend booking international departures from Buenos Aires Ezeiza Airport (EZE) after 23:00 or on the following day, to allow plenty of time for your connection.
What does HX organise and what am I responsible for?
Getting to and from your Antarctica expedition via Ushuaia involves several legs, and some are arranged by us while others are yours to coordinate. Here's a clear breakdown so you know exactly what to expect.
What HX organises
Charter flights between Buenos Aires and Ushuaia
We coordinate charter flights that connect Buenos Aires with your ship in Ushuaia, timed around your voyage schedule. HX charter flights operated by Aerolíneas Argentinas typically depart Buenos Aires between 08:00 and 11:30,. On the return, HX charter flights from Ushuaia to Buenos Aires typically arrive by approximately 19:00.
Final charter flight times are confirmed closer to departure — at your hotel on arrival before your voyage, and onboard for your return.
Your travel documents and itinerary
We send your personalised itinerary, covering flights, transfers, and excursions, approximately 30 to 40 days before departure. International flight details are usually included around 30 to 45 days before your expedition, and we aim to share charter flight times around 40 days before departure as part of your travel itinerary.
Disruption support when you book your international flights through HX
If you book your international flights through us and a flight is delayed, cancelled, or rescheduled, our team will work with the airline on your rebooking. If a significant schedule change means you can no longer arrive in time for your ship, we'll arrange a suitable alternative at no extra cost, subject to the applicable arrangements,. If your flight is delayed or cancelled on the day of travel, contact our team immediately so we can help you manage the disruption.
Baggage allowance coordination on connecting flights
Where the applicable allowance on your international flight is matched on your HX charter flight, we'll make that clear in your travel information.
What you are responsible for
International flights to Buenos Aires
International flights to Buenos Aires are not included in the standard package, but we can arrange flights from most regional airports to help you reach the start of your expedition. You're also welcome to book your own. If you book independently, we cannot assist with rebooking those flights — any changes and associated costs will be your responsibility or may need to be covered by your travel insurance, and delays could affect your ability to reach your ship in time.
Airport transfers and ground transportation
Whether transfers are included depends on the package you've booked. Check your itinerary or contact your local Customer Service Centre to confirm whether transfers are included. If you'd like to arrange an airport transfer, please contact our customer service team for details.
Pre-cruise hotel night in Buenos Aires
We recommend arriving in Buenos Aires the day before your onward journey so you can begin your expedition feeling rested and allow a buffer for your connection. We recommend booking international departures from Buenos Aires Ezeiza Airport (EZE) after 23:00 or on the following day, to allow plenty of time for your connection. Check your travel documents or contact our team to confirm whether a pre-cruise hotel night is included in your package.
Valid passport
You'll need a valid passport with at least 6 months' validity beyond the end of your trip, no matter your nationality.
Visas and travel authorisations
You are responsible for checking and obtaining the visas and travel authorisations required for your journey, including any countries you transit through. Check the requirements for your nationality and route using official government guidance before travelling.
Baggage allowance with each airline
Each guest may bring one checked bag weighing up to 23 kg (50.7 lb) and one carry-on bag weighing up to 8 kg (17.6 lb) on HX charter flights. Additional baggage can be requested for €40 per bag, each way, subject to aircraft payload restrictions. Additional fees may apply to international flight sectors, depending on airline policies, so check the allowance for each flight before you travel
What is included when I book a suite?
À la carte dining option | On the ships that have a Lindstrøm restaurant, suite guests are offered the chance to have all their meals here. Reservations must be made on board and are offered upon availability.
Room service | Room service is available only aboard MS Roald Amundsen and MS Fridtjof Nansen in these selected suites: MF-700, MD-701, MC-749, MC-756, MA-800, MA-801, MC-849, MC-856, MC-919, MC-932. Free of charge, room service is available only from the Lindstrøm menu during the restaurant’s opening hours.
Suite check-in | Are first to check in as per our timeslot system. An exclusive welcome area in Lindstrøm is available for suite guests, where they may meet and greet some of the ship officers.
Welcome greeting | On embarkation day, the suite guests will find a carabiner watch, a bottle of champagne, and a welcome greeting from the captain in their suite after check-in.
Turn-down service | Suite guests will receive a daily turn-down service, including fresh towels and chocolate or similar on the pillow.
Laundry service | This service is free of charge for all suite guests. One laundry bag limit per day per suite.
Minibar | Daily replenishment of the minibar is included for suites (The first round is included, any additional refills will charged ).
Beverages | House wine, beer, soft drinks, and still and sparkling water are available and complimentary at lunch and dinner. For cabin guests, premium drinks and signature cocktails are not included; for suite guests, signature cocktails, premium beers and wines by the glass are included (premium wines including sparkling by the bottle at extra cost). Coffee, tea, and potable water that has been purified on board are included throughout the day.
For those on Santa Cruz II, only guests who book a suite will receive:
Welcome greeting | On embarkation day, all guests will receive a complimentary Galapagos wildlife book and a reusable water bottle. Suite guests will receive an additional welcome gift in their cabin.
Turn-down service | Guests will receive a daily turn-down service, including fresh towels and chocolate or similar on the pillow.
Wi-fi | Guests will receive limited complimentary Wi-fi access. Additional Wi-Fi is available for purchase, but due to the Galapagos’ remote location, please be aware that the internet connection is intermittent and low-bandwidth.
Wetsuit rental | Wetsuit rental is complimentary for all guests on request.
What is a solo supplement?
A solo supplement is an additional cost for occupying a cabin alone. At HX, we actively work to reduce or remove this wherever possible. We offer two kinds of solo offers, (1) no solo supplement offers and (2) reduced solo supplements offers (e.g., 25% instead of a 100%).
How does IAATO protect Antarctica?
IAATO (The International Association of Antarctica Tour Operators) protects Antarctica by advocating and promoting safe and environmentally responsible private sector travel to Antarctica that has no more than a minor or transitory impact on the Antarctic environment.
IAATO does this by providing a forum for more than 100 travel companies in the travel industry to cooperate and share their expertise, opinions, and best practices.
You can read more about the work of IAATO here.
