Superior Stateroom Deck 3
20% Ponant Bonus
226 ft²
3
- Last staterooms
Antarctica: The White Continent – with Smithsonian Journeys
Ushuaia - Ushuaia
Dates:
18/02/2025
to
01/03/2025
Other available dates
days
nights on board
Overnight in Buenos Aires + roundtrip flights Buenos Aires/Ushuaia/Buenos Aires + visit + transfers included
In alliance with Smithsonian Journeys.
This cruise is part of a collection of PONANT voyages that are specially-tailored for English-speaking travelers who want to engage with the world. In addition to the usual elements of the PONANT experience, the listed price for these voyages includes transfers to and from the ship, talks and discussions aboard ship by world class experts, and a shore excursion or activity in each port of call that encourages guests to embrace the sights, sounds, tastes, and smells of the local environment and culture.
PONANT invites you on a polar expedition cruise to the heart of the icy realm that is the Antarctic Peninsula. Embark on an unforgettable 11-day voyage and succumb to the enchantment of the breathtaking landscapes inhabited by astonishing wildlife.
The start of your cruise will be marked by the crossing of the mythical Drake Passage, during which you will likely be escorted by several albatrosses and Cape petrels, the sentinels of these often-choppy waters.
Your ship will then reach the White Continent, realm of the unexpected. Weather and ice conditions permitting, this extreme environment where nature reigns supreme will reveal to you its most beautiful secrets through numerous discoveries.
On this uninhabited land, which wasn’t explored until the 19th century, your encounters with the wildlife will no doubt be one of the highlights of your experience. The Gentoo, Adélie, and Chinstrap penguins, Humpback whales, seals, and seabirds will provide you with cherished lifelong memories.
Each day, whether on land, aboard your ship, or during a Zodiac® outing, you will be surrounded by a grandiose landscape ranging from icebergs to ice floe and ancient glaciers.
We are privileged guests in these extreme lands where we are at the mercy of weather and ice conditions. Landings on certain sites and the observation of certain wildlife cannot be guaranteed. They vary from day to day, making each PONANT cruise a unique experience. The Captain and the Expedition Leader will make every effort to ensure that your experience is as rich as possible, while complying with the safety rules and instructions imposed by the IAATO.
Ref : UUZZ45US - AU190225
Your itinerary
A voyage specially-tailored for English-speaking travelers including discussions with experts, transfers before and after your cruise, a pre-cruise hotel night in Buenos Aires, round-trip flights to/from...
View detailed itinerary
Your trip in detail
Our guests
Choose your stateroom
Choose your stateroom
Superior Stateroom Deck 3
(226 ft²)
From £10,390
per person
20% Ponant Bonus
Deluxe Stateroom Deck 3
(193 ft²)
Fully booked
20% Ponant Bonus
Prestige Stateroom Deck 4
(193 ft²)
Fully booked
20% Ponant Bonus
Prestige Stateroom Deck 5
(193 ft²)
Fully booked
20% Ponant Bonus
Prestige Stateroom Deck 6
(193 ft²)
Fully booked
20% Ponant Bonus
Deluxe Suite Deck 6
(290 ft²)
From £16,890
per person
20% Ponant Bonus
Prestige Suite Deck 5
(398 ft²)
Fully booked
20% Ponant Bonus
Prestige Suite Deck 6
(398 ft²)
Fully booked
20% Ponant Bonus
Owner's Suite Deck 6
(484 ft²)
From £28,340 per person
Complete your trip
Complete your trip
Included in your cruise
For more peace of mind, PONANT organizes your trip before or after the cruise. This package is included in the price of your cruise.
Additional services
For more peace of mind, PONANT selects stays and flights then takes care of your transfers for your trip as well as shore visits before and after the cruise.
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L'AUSTRAL
L'AUSTRAL
05/11/2025 to the 23/11/2025
LE CHAMPLAIN
03/12/2025 to the 13/12/2025
*Price is per person, based on double occupancy, based on availability, and subject to change at any time. The category of stateroom to which this price applies may no longer be available.
Discover all destinations
Services provided
- 24-hour room service
- Inclusive Wifi internet access (availability dependent on navigation and latitude)
- Individually-controlled air conditioning
- Dressing room with shelves and closet
- Dressing table and hairdryer
- Dyptique Paris top-of-the-line bath products
- Minibar
- Nespresso coffee maker and boiler
- Electronic safe
- Direct line telephone
- Bose Bluetooth speaker
- Flat screen TV, international channels (availability dependent on navigation) and videos on demand
- 110V American (two flat pins)/220V European (round sockets with two round pins)
- Three ADA staterooms
Select your stateroom category
Expedition programmes include activities such as zodiac outings and landings (sometimes with "wet landing"), moderate walks to more active hikes, all accompanied by your expedition team of naturalist guides.
Ports of call, visited sites, outings and landings will depend on weather conditions, position of ice, winds and the state of the sea. These can force a change of plans at any time. The Captain and the Expedition Leader may at any time cancel or stop any activity, or even modify the itinerary. The final itinerary will be confirmed by the Captain, who will take into account the touristic quality of the sites and above all, the safety of the passengers. His decision will be based on advice from experts and authorities.
Travelling to polar/isolated regions is an exhilarating experience in remote areas: please remember that you are far from modern hospitals with full medical facilities, thus evacuation is extremely expensive. Without adequate medical coverage, all expenses will have to be immediately paid with your personal funds. We urge you to subscribe to full coverage insurance, choose your insurance company very carefully, be extremely vigilant and ensure your insurance is fully comprehensive, especially if you are insured by your credit card. PONANT offers an insurance contract with extensive guarantees, please contact us for more information.
Clothing tips:
- A PONANT polar water-resistant parka is offered on board for all departures with an expedition programme (no children sizes, in case of consecutive cruises, only one complimentary parka).
- Half calf rubber boots with non-slip soles, which will allow you to go ashore in 20 cm of cold water, keeping your feet dry for walks and visits on steep paths. Boot rental will be offered onboard (for adults only) on Expedition cruises.
- Comfortable trousers: classic Winter trousers, warm cotton tracksuit, wool leggings
- Waterproof and windproof over-trousers – MANDATORY
- Winter trousers with waterproof over trousers are the ideal combination: water-resistance and comfort of trousers are essential
- Pullover, sweat-shirt or fleece jacket
- Woollen or thermolactyl Thermal underwear
- A warm hat, woollen ear muffs or fleece ear muffs, fleece or woollen neck warmer (avoid scarves that do not stay in place)- MANDATORY
- Wool or silk glove liners, water-resistant and supple gloves
- Thick warm socks (ideally woollen)
Accessories:
- Small waterproof backpack (to protect your camera from water).
- Binoculars (strongly recommended for wildlife viewing).
- Highly protective sunglasses.
- Walking poles (highly recommended).
Ideal clothes for life on board:
During the days spent on board, you are advised to wear comfortable clothes or casual outfits. The entire ship is air-conditioned, so a light sweater, a light jacket or a shawl may be necessary. When moving about in the public areas of the ship and the decks, light but comfortable shoes are recommended.
Informal evening:
In the evening, you are advised to wear smart-casual attire, especially when dining in our restaurants where wearing shorts and tee-shirts is not allowed.
For women:
- Simple dress
- Skirt or trousers
- Blouse
- Polo
For men:
- Pleated trousers or chinos
- Sports jacket
- Shirt
- Polo
Officer’s evening:
For all cruises longer than 8 nights, an Officer’s Evening with a white dress code may be organized. Therefore, we encourage you to bring a stylish white outfit for the occasion (otherwise black and white).
Gala evening:
During the cruise, two gala evenings will be organised on board. Thus, we recommend that you bring one or two formal outfits.
For women:
- Cocktail attire
- Evening dress (if you wish to)
For men:
- Dark suit
- Tie recommended, possibly bow tie (if you wish to)
SHOP:
A small shop is available on board offering a wide range of outfits, jewellery, leather goods and many accessories.
A laundry service (washing/ironing) is available on board, but unfortunately there are no dry cleaning services. For safety reasons, your cabin is not equipped with an iron.
INSULATED BASE LAYER:
- Wool or thermolactyl technical underwear
- Polar or technical jacket
- Polar sweater or sweatshirt
- Silk or wool glove liners
- Wool leggings
- Warm hiking socks
WATERPROOF OUTER LAYER:
- Waterproof over-trousers - Mandatory
- Waterproof parka - Offered on board (not available in children’s sizes)
- A warm woollen hat covering your ears
- Polar or woollen neck warmer
- Waterproof technical gloves
HEALTH CARE:
- Sunscreen
- Lip protection balm
- Medications and prescriptions
OUTFITS ON BOARD:
- Casual outfits for the day
- Smarter outfits for dinners
- Elegant outfits for Gala evenings
- White or black and white outfit
ACCESSORIES:
- Highly protective sunglasses
- Binoculars
- Walking poles
- Small waterproof backpack
- Swimsuit (for the spa on board)
- Gym wear (fitness)
- Battery charger and memory cards for your camera
- Mobile phone charger
PONANT activities
Kayak Discovery
Get as up close to the natural environment as possible with an excursion aboard a two-person sea kayak, during one 2-hour session.
Guided by a state-registered polar navigation specialist, you'll discover and explore breathtakingly scenic polar landscapes and scenery.
All the necessary equipment will be provided for you on board.
How is the activity organised?
Once you’ve arrived onboard the ship, you’ll meet your guides and the rest of the people taking part in the activity. This will be an opportunity to provide a general introduction to the activity, outline the rules that need to be followed, provide the necessary equipment and separate the participants into groups based on personal preferences and/or ability level.
The day before the activity is due to take place, a new briefing session will be organised to provide you with further details about the port of call and how the excursion will be organised. We’ll then provide you with the necessary equipment, which you’ll be required to take very good care of.
On the day of the kayak activity, you’ll first get changed at the ship’s marina platform (keeping your boots and parkas with you) before then being transported to land by Zodiac® and taken to your kayaks.
Before you climb into your kayaks and set off on your adventure, your guides will provide a final safety briefing.
What requirements do you need to meet in order to go sea kayaking?
Though it’s always useful to have at least one experience of sea kayaking under your belt, due to the high quality of the equipment we provide and the experience of the guides who’ll be supervising you, we are able to take complete beginners to places normally only accessible to professional kayakers and seasoned outdoor adventurers.
Participants will be formed into groups based on ability level onboard the ship to ensure everyone is able to make smooth progress on the trip.
Sea kayaking is a physically demanding activity, for both the heart and the muscles. We require you to be in a good state of general physical health and to have a good sense of balance.
This activity is available to adults (aged 18 or over) and to children of 16 and over when accompanied by a parent.
Please note:
- One 2-hour session. Price per participant: 350 €
- Number of participants restricted to 20 per trip.
- This activity must be pre-booked in advance at least 7 days before the start of your cruise. Bookings made after this deadline will only be confirmed once onboard and are dependent on availability.
- Your vouchers will be dropped off directly in your room, during your cruise.
- Due to restrictions on the number of places available and a high level of interest from our passengers, there may be limited access to certain activities. The cost of any kayak trip cancelled by a passenger prior to departure will still remain payable in full.
- PONANT provides each participant with a sea kayak (Prijon Excursion EVO - two-person kayak for two participants), a dry suit (Sandyline - specially designed for PONANT), a life jacket, hand protection, kayak sea socks, spray skirt, carbon paddle (TNP Wolferine) and a waterproof bag.
- Depending on opportunities/availabilities during your cruise, additional Kayak tours can be booked only onboard.
- Kayak excursions are subject to weather and ice conditions on the day.
- You will be accompanied by state-certified kayakers each time you go out in a kayak.
- We require you to be in a good state of general physical health and to have a good sense of balance.
Smithsonian Journeys
Smithsonian Journeys is the travel program of the Smithsonian Institution, the world’s largest museum, education and research complex, consisting of 21 museums, the National Zoological Park, education centers, research facilities, cultural centers, and libraries. Drawing on Smithsonian's resources dating back 175 years, these sailings will feature notable experts and experiences that embrace local cultures and dive deeper into a destination’s history, cuisine, language, environment, and wildlife. For more than 50 years, Smithsonian Journeys has been rooted in and focused on cultural immersion and discovery – with a goal of inspiring guests to become global citizens through travel.
Subject to withdrawal in case of force majeure
Highlights
- A voyage specially-tailored for English-speaking travelers including discussions with experts, transfers before and after your cruise, a pre-cruise hotel night in Buenos Aires, round-trip flights to/from Ushuaia, an excursion in Tierra del Fuego, and an included activity in each port of call. For more information, see the “Included in Your Cruise” tab.
- Engaging discussions onboard with three Smithsonian Journeys Experts, polar explorer Ben Saunders, penguin expert Dyan deNapoli, and photographer Jim Preston.
- Outings and shore visits in Zodiac® inflatables with a team of experienced naturalist guides.
- Lectures and information sessions hosted by your naturalist guides, covering wildlife, history, geopolitics, the great explorers, climate, and environmental protection.
- Hiking opportunities.
- Visits to research stations and former whaling stations if conditions allow.
- Landscapes: A multitude of drifting icebergs, ice floes, imposing glaciers and tall, snow-covered mountains.
- Wildlife: Humpback whales, Gentoo penguins, Adélie penguins, Chinstrap penguins, Leopard seals, Crabeater seals, Weddell seals, and numerous sea birds.
- Opportunity to explore the magic of Antarctica with a sea kayak adventure. Led by experienced, state-certified kayak guides, you will skim the water’s surface amid the ice. Full professional equipment is provided, including tandem kayak, carbon paddle, full-body drysuit, lifejacket, and AIS beacon. For more information about your kayak tour, please go to the "PONANT Activities" tab, and to book the kayak tour, contact your cruise advisor (additional cost).
Subject to weather conditions. The expedition highlights, encounters with the wildlife and itinerary described illustrate possible experiences only and cannot be guaranteed.
Ports of Call & Excursions
19 February 2025 - Ushuaia
Embarkation 19/02/2025 from 16:00 to 17:00
Departure 19/02/2025 at 18:00
Capital of Argentina's Tierra del Fuego province, Ushuaia is considered the gateway to the White Continent and the South Pole. Nicknamed “El fin del mundo” by the Argentinian people, this city at the end of the world nestles in the shelter of mountains surrounded by fertile plains that the wildlife seem to have chosen as the ultimate sanctuary. With its exceptional site, where the Andes plunge straight into the sea, Ushuaia is one of the most fascinating places on earth, its very name evocative of journeys to the unlikely and the inaccessible…
20 February 2025 21 February 2025 - Crossing the Drake Passage
Arrival 20/02/2025
Departure 21/02/2025
Use your days spent in the Drake Passage to familiarise yourself with your ship and deepen your knowledge of the Antarctic. The Expedition Leader will first present the IAATO rules of conduct that must be observed during landings in the region and will explain everything you need to know about the zodiac outings. Lectures about the history and wildlife of the Antarctic will be an opportunity for you to learn more about this magical region, where every cruise is a unique experience. You will experience exceptional sailing moments on board and join the naturalist-guides on your ship’s exterior decks to look out for albatrosses, cape petrels, and other seabirds flying over the Drake Passage.
22 February 2025 26 February 2025 - Antarctic Peninsula
Arrival 22/02/2025
Departure 26/02/2025
Succumb to the magic of a place unlike any other. To this day, the mythical Antarctic Peninsula still holds real fascination and promises its visitors unforgettable moments. Throughout your adventure in this icy realm, you will find yourself in the heart of a spectacular decor in subtle shades of blue and white, surrounded by exceptional wildlife. Penguins, humpback whales, seals and giant petrels are at home here, as are elephant seals, fur seals, Antarctic minke whales, and orcas. Depending on which sites you will be lucky enough to visit, you may get the chance to observe them and share with them the beauty of these extreme parts.
Each day, based on ice conditions, the Captain and the Expedition Leader will suggest zodiac outings or landings to discover the infinite riches of the Antarctic Peninsula. Glaciers, ice floe, tabletop icebergs, mountain peaks that plunge straight into the sea, volcanic beaches, research stations, enchanting bays, and vestiges of the whaling industry: these are the faces of the Antarctic that will likely reveal themselves to you, in a hushed and surreal atmosphere. You will sail in the wake of Jean-Baptiste Charcot, Adrien de Gerlache and Sir Ernest Shackleton, great Antarctic explorers who, from the 19th century, set out to conquer these remote and uninhabited lands.
27 February 2025 28 February 2025 - Crossing the Drake Passage
Arrival 27/02/2025
Departure 28/02/2025
If there is one place, one sea, one waterway dreaded by tourists, researchers and hardened seafarers alike, it is undoubtedly Drake Passage. Situated at the latitude of the infamous Furious Fifties winds, between Cape Horn and the South Shetland Islands, it is the shortest route to connect Antarctica to South America. Seasoned navigators will tell you that you must earn your visit to the White Continent! As the Antarctic convergence zone where cold currents rising up from the South Pole meet warmer equatorial water masses, Drake Passage harbours a very diverse marine fauna. Don't forget to look to the sky to catch a glimpse of elegant albatross and Cape petrels, playfully floating about in the wind around your ship.
1 March 2025 - Ushuaia
Arrival 01/03/2025
Disembarkation 01/03/2025 at 08:00
Capital of Argentina's Tierra del Fuego province, Ushuaia is considered the gateway to the White Continent and the South Pole. Nicknamed “El fin del mundo” by the Argentinian people, this city at the end of the world nestles in the shelter of mountains surrounded by fertile plains that the wildlife seem to have chosen as the ultimate sanctuary. With its exceptional site, where the Andes plunge straight into the sea, Ushuaia is one of the most fascinating places on earth, its very name evocative of journeys to the unlikely and the inaccessible…
L'Austral
Innovative design, sleek shape and profile, refined interior decoration, friendly, intimate atmosphere: French designers and decorators have managed to give this ship a unique style and veritable signature of its own. Combinations of fine materials, colours and tones harmoniously livened up with touches of bright colour, elegant lines, discreet and subtle refinement… everything has been designed to create a unique atmosphere onboard, a veritable personality: the chic style and naturally relaxing ambiance of a veritable private yacht.
Decks
Overnight in Buenos Aires + roundtrip flights Buenos Aires/Ushuaia/Buenos Aires + visit + transfers included
PONANT has organized the following included program for you, which starts the day prior to embarkation.
The day before embarkation – Buenos Aires
- Transfer from Ezeiza International Airport in Buenos Aires, Argentina, to the Hotel Madero (or similar).
- Meet and greet at the hotel and hospitality desk. Check-in from late morning.
- Lunch and dinner on your own, and time at leisure in the afternoon.
- Overnight at the hotel.
Embarkation Day – Buenos Aires/Ushuaia
- Early morning breakfast at the hotel.
- Transfer to the airport.
- Flight Buenos Aires/Ushuaia selected by PONANT in economy class. Approximate flight duration: 3 hours, 30 minutes.
- Meet and greet at the airport in Ushuaia.
- Lunch at a local restaurant.
- Transfer to the pier to embark the ship.
- 10-night cruise on board L’Austral -
Disembarkation Day – Ushuaia/Buenos Aires
- Disembark and depart for Tierra del Fuego National Park. Created in 1960, the Park, which covers 155,670 acres, is located in the southwest of Tierra del Fuego Province on the Beagle Canal. One of its entry points is about six miles from Ushuaia.
Mountainous landscapes, lagoons, bogs, and rivers create a picturesque scenery reinforced by the southern position of the park itself. The Darwin Mountains, which represent the southern part of the Andes Mountains, are mainly responsible for the landscape. The Park is only partly accessible to the public, and this tour will provide you with the opportunity to discover the local flora and sub-Antarctic landscapes. If you are lucky, you may encounter beavers, dams, birds, wild orchids, and more. This is a true paradise for nature lovers! - Transfer to the airport.
- Meet and greet at the airport.
- Flight Ushuaia/Buenos Aires selected by PONANT in economy class. Approximate flight duration: 3 hours, 30 minutes.
Your program includes:
- A program of onboard enrichment provided by three Smithsonian Journeys Experts, polar explorer Ben Saunders, penguin expert Dyan deNapoli, and photographer Jim Preston.
- 1-night accommodation at the Hotel Madero (or similar) the night before embarkation.
- Early check-in available from late morning.
- Hospitality desk at the hotel.
- Round-trip flight Buenos Aires/Ushuaia/Buenos Aires selected by PONANT, in economy class.
- Excursion to Tierra del Fuego National Park by coach, including entrance fees.
- Services of English speaking guides during the excursion.
- Meals as mentioned in the program.
- Transfers as mentioned in the program.
- Gratuities for ship crew and for guides and drivers on excursions.
Your program does not include:
- Other meals and services not mentioned in the program.
- Personal expenses (such as laundry, telephone, etc.)
Please note:
- The local currency is the Argentinian Peso. You will be able to make most of your purchases in USD (in small denominations) or by credit card, which is accepted in most hotels, shopping centers, and boutiques. You will also be able to retrieve Pesos from ATMs.
- Summer season in Buenos Aires: Temperatures may be very hot but are often between 68 °F (20 °C) and 95 °F (35 °C).
- Summer season in Ushuaia: Temperatures vary between 41 °F (5 °C) and 65 °F (15 °C).
- We recommend you wear warm clothing and comfortable walking shoes.
- This voyage is offered on a space available basis.
Program is subject to change.
To learn your PONANT flight schedule, please contact your cruise advisor; it is also indicated on your electronic ticket included in your travel documents.
Special Guest Speaker
On our departures in alliance with Smithsonian Journeys, we are joined by two Smithsonian Journeys Experts who will provide an insightful English-language lecture series that enhances your experience with valuable context and new perspectives. From enriching talks to casual conversations on board, their in-depth knowledge will bring you deeper into the history, culture, and natural world of your destination.
Polar Expedition
Make your dreams of adventure come true, explore the boundaries of the world, and discover wild and legendary territories. The icy immensity of Antarctica, the constantly changing glaciers and icebergs of the North Pole, the mysterious mists of the North European coastlines, the most remote fjords on the planet… Every destination unveils unrivalled landscapes, home to increasingly varied fauna. Our team of naturalist-guides will share their knowledge with you during varied lectures about the history of the great explorations, geology and climatology, the fauna and flora, and will invite you to share special moments with the local populations.
No single supplement
FREE SINGLE SUPPLEMENT *
*The supplement for single usage of a double cabin is waived, according to availability and staterooms categories.
Shore excursions, Pre/Post & Overlands
14/02/2025 - ARGENTINA'S LAKE DISTRICT: BARILOCHE AND ITS SURROUNDINGS (4 NIGHTS)
£2,560
Find out moreARGENTINA'S LAKE DISTRICT: BARILOCHE AND ITS SURROUNDINGS (4 NIGHTS)
This program is a perfect way to ease into the adventure of an expedition to Antarctica, providing four days of relaxed exploration of the wondrously beautiful Lake District of Argentina. With the city of Bariloche as your base of operations, venture into lush forests, pristine lakes, and remote islands—all offering opportunities for gentle walks or active climbs, with panoramic views of landscapes that are inarguably among the most remarkable in the world.
Day 1 – Buenos Aires
Arrive at Buenos Aires's Ezeiza International Airport, where you will be met and transferred to the Hotel Madero in the heart of Buenos Aires. A local representative will be present at the hospitality desk in the afternoon to welcome you and to answer any questions you may have. Relax and enjoy the hotel's many amenities, or explore the boutiques and cafés in the area, before joining your fellow travelers for a welcome cocktail reception.
Day 2 – Buenos Aires | Bariloche
After breakfast at the hotel, transfer to the airport for your flight to Bariloche. Upon arrival, you will be met and transferred to the NH Edelweiss Bariloche, your home for the next three nights.
Today's excursion is a scenic drive around the 40-mile Circuito Chico (small circuit) with breathtaking views of Lake Nahuel Huapi, Mount Tronador & Victoria Island. Explore Cerro Campanario, where a chairlift takes you to the top of the hill for panoramic views of the lake, the island, and the snow-capped Andes in the background. At Llao Llao Nature Reserve, an easy hike with a local expert introduces the local flora and fauna. And about half-way through the drive, stop at the Patagonia Brewery for lunch, which is as much a scenic destination as it is a restaurant. Situated right on the Circuito Chico, it takes full advantage of its location with views across Lago Moreno Este from a large living-room and an open-air patio. It serves a wide range of beers, including its own craft brews. Dinner this evening is at the hotel.
Day 3 – Bariloche | Isla Victoria and Arrayanes Forest
Breakfast at the hotel is followed by a short drive to Puerto Pañuelo, where you board a local boat and set sail for Isla Victoria. As you cruise the deep-blue pristine waters of Lake Nahuel Huapi, you gain another perspective on the stunning beauty the Argentine Lake District and the foothills of the Andes. On the island, a variety of walking trails welcome you to explore this nature reserve, and park rangers are available to answer questions. Enjoy a relaxed gourmet picnic lunch, planned by chef Lucas Mallman, before continuing the excursion with a visit to the Arrayanes Forest. This forest is the last remaining natural habitat for the Arrayán tree, a myrtle that grows to be some 60 feet tall and may live for as many 300 years. The fruits are sweet-tart and used in juices and candies, and the leaves are believed by indigenous peoples to have medicinal properties. Return to Bariloche, where dinner is at the hotel.
Day 4 - Bariloche
Today's excursion to Llao Llao Municipal Park provides one last perspective on the unparalleled beauty of Bariloche, as you join a hike to the summit of Cerro Llao Llao. Drive to Villa Tacul, where an expert guide joins you for the 4-mile out-and-back hike along a well-marked trail that winds slowly up Cerro Llao Llao. Witness ever-changing views of Lake Nahuel Huapi, Lake Moreno, and the Andes, as you make your way through forests full of birdlife, until the forest gives way to meadowlands with unobstructed views in all directions. At the summit, pause for a gourmet lunch, accompanied by Argentine wines, before descending to a pebbled beach on the shores of the lake.
Return to your hotel for some time at leisure before joining fellow travelers for a Farewell Dinner at the award-winning El Patacon restaurant in Bariloche.
Day 5 - Bariloche | Buenos Aires
After breakfast, transfer to the airport for your flight to Buenos Aires, where you will be met and transferred to your hotel to join the main program.
Your hotels:
Hotel Madero is a 5-star property in the heart of Buenos Aires' Puerto Madero district. It has all the amenities you would expect in a luxury hotel—fine dining, full-service spa, and bespoke service.
Located in the resort city of San Carlos de Bariloche, the NH Edelweiss Hotel, is a 4-star hotel offering spacious and bright rooms facing the Nahuel Huapi Lake. The rooms are all equipped with flat-screen cable TVs and free WiFi, and there is a gym and a top-floor swimming pool. Buffet breakfast is included, and the La Tavola restaurant features regional and local flavors. Lighter fare is available at the patio bar, which boasts an excellent wine list.
Your program includes:
-
1 night in Hotel Madero, Buenos Aires
-
3 nights in the NH Edelweiss Hotel in Bariloche
-
Round-trip flights between Buenos Aires and Bariloche
-
Transfer and luggage handling from the airport to the hotel on the scheduled program arrival day
-
Transfer and luggage handling from the hotels to airports on days 2 and 5
-
Welcome Reception on Day 1
-
Breakfast on Days 2, 3, 4, and 5
-
Lunch and Dinner on Days 2, 3, and 4
-
Sightseeing and programming as noted in the itinerary
-
Local English-speaking guide
-
Gratuities for the drivers and local guides
Your program does not include:
-
Transfer from the airport to the hotel on any day other than the scheduled program arrival day
-
Personal expenses and other services and meals not mentioned as included in the program
Please note:
-
It is imperative that your flight arrival details are communicated at least 90 days prior to the beginning of your cruise in order to secure your transfer from the airport to the hotel.
-
Early check-in is available upon request if arriving on the first day of the program. An additional night is possible, upon request and depending on hotel availability. Please, contact reservations or your travel agent for further details.
-
The official currency is the Argentine peso. US dollars and credit cards are widely accepted in hotels, shops, and restaurants.
-
This pre-cruise program is offered as a package. There will be no refunds for unused accommodations, meals, or excursions.
-
Program is offered on a space available basis.
-
Program is subject to change without notice.
Hotel contact information:
Hotel Madero
Rosario Vera Peñaloza 360
Puerto Madero ESTE
Buenos Aires, Argentina
Telephone: +51 11 5776 7777
NH Bariloche Edelweiss
San Martin 202
R8500ALP
Bariloche, Argentina
Telephone: +54 294 4445 5000
Total : £2,560
Price is per person, based on double occupancy, based on availability.ARGENTINE TRADITIONS (2 NIGHTS)
Buenos Aires is a dynamic and cosmopolitan city with a rich cultural and architectural heritage, known worldwide for Tango and football, but also for cafés, book stores, and theaters. It is also the capital of a sprawling country of widely varying regions. This program is designed to introduce you both to the city and to life in the nearby countryside.
Day 1 – Ushuia | Buenos Aires
After breakfast aboard, disembark the ship and transfer to the airport for your flight to Buenos Aires. Transfer to the Hotel Madero for check-in. Dinner is on your own this evening. Overnight at the Hotel Madero.
Day 2 – Buenos Aires | San Antonio de Areco Buenos Aires
Today's excursion takes you northwest of Buenos Aires to San Antonio de Areco, once described as "the prettiest town in the pampas," where gaucho traditions of craftsmanship and hospitality are lovingly preserved. You will have the opportunity to explore the village's 18th-century buildings, including a traditional "puplería"—a sort of combination grocery store and bar that was a favorite hangout for gauchos when they were in town. A drive to the outskirts of San Antonio brings you to Estancia El Ombú de Areco, dating to 1880 and still a working ranch, where you will enjoy a specially prepared asado—the traditional Argentinian barbecue. After lunch you can experience life on the estancia on horseback, enjoy a carriage ride, or simply walk around the grounds. Return to Buenos Aires in the evening. Dinner is on your own. Overnightt at the Hotel Madero.
Day 3 – Buenos Aires | Homeward
After breakfast at the hotel and checking out of the hotel, join an excursion of the highlights of Buenos Aires. Begin at the historic Plaza de Mayo, surrounded by the Government House, the Metropolitan Cathedral, and the Cabildo, which served as Town Hall during the 18th-century Spanish Viceregency. Continue to San Telmo, one of the oldest quarters in the city and a treasure trove of antiques, and La Boca, where you stroll the "Caminito," a pedestrian street famous for its colorful houses constructed of corrugated iron. Next is the elegant Recoleta, an area of sophisticated cafés, restaurants, and art galleries, and home to the cemetery that is the final resting place of Eva Perón. Enjoy lunch at a local restaurant. Your tour comes to an end at the airport where you will depart for your flights homeward.
Your hotel:
The Hotel Madero is located in the middle of the Puerto Madero district, a trendy waterfront neighborhood on the banks of the Rio de la Plata with upscale dining and a wildlife-rich conservation park. The historic barrio of San Telmo and the Calle Florida shopping area are nearby, and the hotel itself features a restaurant and bar, indoor pool and spa, and all the amenities you would expect from a deluxe property.
Your program includes:
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2 nights at the Hotel Madero (or similar)
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Transfer and luggage handling from the airport to the hotel on Day 1
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Transfer and luggage handling from the hotel to the airport on Day 3
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Breakfast on Days 2 and 3
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Lunch on Days 2 and 3
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Sightseeing and programming as noted in the itinerary
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Local English-speaking guide
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Gratuities for the drivers and local guides
Your program does not include:
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Transfer from the airport to the hotel on any day other than the scheduled program deparure day
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Personal expenses and other services and meals not mentioned as included in the program
Please note:
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It is imperative that your flight departure details are communicated at least 90 days prior to the beginning of your cruise in order to secure your transfer from the hotel to the airport.
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Late check-out is available depending on availability and at a supplement. An additional night is possible, upon request and depending on hotel availability. Please contact reservations or your travel agent for further details.
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The official currency is the Argentine peso. Credit cards are widely accepted in hotels, shops, and restaurants.
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This post-cruise program is offered as a package. There will be no refunds for unused accommodations, meals, or excursions.
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Program is offered on a space available basis.
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Program is subject to change without notice.
Hotel contact information:
Hotel Madero
Rosario Vera Peñaloza 360
Puerto Madero ESTE
Buenos Aires
Argentina
Telephone: +54 11 5776-7777
Total : £900
Price is per person, based on double occupancy, based on availability.