20 Night Cruise sailing from Ushuaia roundtrip aboard National Geographic Orion. Hotel stay pre-cruise in Santiago.

DAY 1: Overnight Hotel in Santiago (Orion)
Guests traveling aboard National Geographic Orion arrive today in Santiago. Check into the Mandarin Oriental Santiago (or similar) before our guided overview of this vibrant city backed by the inspiring Andes. (L)

DAY 2: Fly to Ushuaia, Argentina/Embark Ship
Today we fly by private charter flight to Ushuaia, Argentina. This morning's charter flight will bring us over Patagonia before landing in Ushuaia, the southernmost city in the world. If the weather is fine, you'll have a chance to view the spectacular mountains rising out of the Beagle Channel as you enjoy lunch on a catamaran cruise. Then, you'll embark the expedition ship and set sail, (B,L,D)

DAY 3: At Sea
You'll awake this morning into your journey across the Drake Passage. Lying between Cape Horn and the Antarctic Peninsula, the Drake holds a unique place in maritime lore. The Drake Passage is unforgettable-a milestone in any adventurer's personal travel history—with time to hear talks preparing you for the exciting days ahead.. (B,L,D)

DAY 4-9: Antarctica
With long hours of daylight, we make the most of our days exploring the Antarctic Peninsula and surrounding islands. Our schedule is flexible, allowing us to take advantage of the unexpected. We’ll spend these days exploring the “White Continent" via Zodiac, kayak and on foot, and using our arsenal of tools for exploration. (B,L,D)

DAY 10-11: At Sea
As we voyage, head up to the Bridge to watch for icebergs and observe expert navigation at work as our skilled Captain and officers sail these historic waters. There’ll also be time to enjoy a massage in the wellness center, workout in the gym, and browse in the library. Each day our naturalists offer talks that add depth to your experience. (B,L,D)

DAY 12-16: South Georgia Island
Explore the spectacular coastline of South Georgia Island. In keeping with the nature of an expedition, our schedule is flexible with opportunities for walking, hiking, kayaking and Zodiac excursions, making stops every day as we leisurely circumnavigate the island. Teeming wildlife and breathtaking scenery greet our ship as our Zodiacs make landfall. We plan to visit Grytviken, part of the extraordinary story of the Endurance and the final resting place of Sir Ernest Shackleton, as well as Stromness Bay where Shackleton, Tom Crean and Frank Worsley finally reached aid at a whaling station. See huge elephant seals, and, on a single beach, you will visit a vast colony of tens of thousands of king penguins! (B,L,D)

DAY 17-18: At Sea
Whales beneath, birds above, as you continue on. Our naturalists will prepare us for the exciting days ahead with presentations on the wildlife and history of the Falkland Islands. (B,L,D)

DAY 19-20: Falkland Islands
The Falklands boast the largest albatross colony in the world, irresistible Magellanic penguins in their burrows amid the green tussock grass and herds of enormous elephant seals. Stroll the photogenic tin-roofed, Victorian-style houses of Port Stanley. Visit the Anglican Cathedral with its organic archway of whalebones, and the Falkland Islands Museum. (B,L,D)

DAY 21: At Sea
On our final day at sea, enjoy one last chance to view the marine and bird life of these southern waters. Toast our epic voyage at a festive farewell dinner. (B,L,D)

DAY 22: Disembark Ushuaia/Fly to Santiago (Orion)/Home
After breakfast, we disembark in Ushuaia with some time to explore before proceeding to the airport for our LAN charter flight to Santiago. (Day 22: B,L)