Buenos Aires moves to a rhythm that is unmistakably unique to the Argentinian capital. Just ask a local and they’ll tell you straight away: It’s the diverse melting-pot of people who inject vibrancy into the city. These porteños (port people) have roots from all across the globe, bringing their diverse cultures with them. The result is an intoxicating blend of romantic music, tango dancing around every corner, Maradona soccer fans, Old World colonial architecture, and flavorful food.

You’ll spend one night at a hotel in the city before catching an early flight the next morning. Depending on when you arrive, you could fit in some time to explore a slice of this bustling capital. Visit Teatro Colón, a beautiful opera house dating back to 1908. Then pop into the historic Café Tortoni for Parisian-inspired coffees and chocolate-dipped churros. Caminito is a multi-colored street museum in the La Boca neighborhood, filled with lively markets and restaurants hosting live folk dancing and tango shows. The party doesn’t stop there, though. Late into the night, the upscale Palermo district is filled with bars and boliche clubs.

If you’d like to extend your vacation, come a few days early to participate in our Pre-Program and explore the wild land of Patagonia.

It takes two days of sailing to reach Antarctica. This is a good thing! Two days is the perfect amount of time to both relax and prepare for the adventures ahead.

To make sure you are ready for the days of exploration ahead of you, the Expedition Team will launch a series of insightful lectures at the Science Center. Each member of the Expedition Team specializes in a different subject. You’ll see that they are walking, talking, treasure troves of fascinating stories and information. Listen and learn as they share information about the local wildlife and the IAATO-approved sustainability protocol you must follow if curious penguins or seals come too close to you. The IAATO guidelines include learning the importance of wearing sterilized rubber boots during all Antarctica landings and why we thoroughly vacuum any foreign particles from our clothes beforehand.

You’ll also appreciate how the ship is equipped with all services and facilities added for your comfort. Work out in the gym and or run along the outdoor track circuit. Steam away the soreness from your workout in the sauna, or let masterful hands relax you during a message in the Wellness Spa. Three different onboard restaurants will delight your palate, while the Explorer Lounge & Bar is always the perfect place to relax with a glass of wine or a bit of bubbly. Just because the expedition is exciting doesn’t mean it can’t be luxurious too!

Saying goodbye to Antarctica is hard, but the time has come to point the ship northward once again. You can spend the two days crossing the Drake Passage sorting through your breathtaking photos of Antarctica, and putting in another memory card for what’s about to come next. You might also have the option to join workshops where you can channel your memories of Antarctica into painting penguins or learning how to tie complicated sailor’s knots.

The Science Center will be brimming with activity. The Expedition Team will be offering presentations that are sure to whip up your enthusiasm for the final few days of your voyage in the Falkland Islands. These lectures would touch on the tense history of the islands, along with the birds species seen around their beautiful beaches. In between lectures, you can use the Science Center’s advanced microscopes to examine water samples at a cellular level. You’ll discover a plethora of microscopic lifeforms, including krill and phytoplankton, which also tie into an interesting and valuable Citizen Science initiative.

Your expedition is approaching its end. Make sure you enjoy your last day at sea. Head to the bar and share some drinks with the new friends you made during your journey. Swap adventure stories with the Expedition Team and learn more about these modern-day explorers. Treat yourself to a fine-dining experience at the à la carte restaurant or a refreshing massage treatment in the Wellness Spa. Or simply relax on deck. Watch the waves and relive fond memories of the voyage’s many highlights.