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The Great Adventure

19 Days Buenos Aires Return
The Great Adventure
The Great Adventure
The Great Adventure
South Georgia Island
South Georgia Island
Cruising At Sea
Cruising At Sea
Crossing The Drake Passage
Crossing The Drake Passage
Buenos Aires
Buenos Aires
Ushuaia
Ushuaia
Ushuaia
Ushuaia
Buenos Aires
Buenos Aires
Cruising At Sea
Cruising At Sea
South Georgia Island
South Georgia Island
Ushuaia
Ushuaia

Overview

An 18-day trip in the southernmost waters of our planet, between Antarctica, a continent like no other, and the mountainous South Georgia, is what Ponant is offering you with this fabulous expedition cruise. The stunning icy landscapes, the emblematic and abundant fauna of the Far South, and the history of the great polar expeditions combine, promising a thrilling experience. At the border between the Atlantic and the Pacific Ocean, you will enter Drake Passage. At the roaring fifties and the screaming sixties, the wind blows and the waves beat against the stem of the ship.

In the sky, cape read more petrels lead you toward their realm until you reach the first of the continent's lands. Ice is there in all its forms. The mountainous landscapes open up to give way to huge calving glaciers, tabular icebergs drift in the middle of the Southern Ocean, and the sea ice shimmers in the distance. On board, the naturalists reveal to you the secrets of this unique ecosystem. As you near the shores, the first penguins appear. Gentoo, Adélie, chinstrap, these surprising birds, emblematic of the Antarctic, share their beaches with leopard, crabeater and Weddell seals. Further south, your ship will reach the remote waters of the Weddell Sea. You will travel back in time in the wake of Sir Ernest Shackleton's expedition. Not far from there, his crew remained for four months on Elephant Island to await rescue after their ship, the Endurance, sank.

More than a century after this mythical adventure, you will follow the same route to reach South Georgia. It is there, amid the snow-covered mountains, that Sir Ernest Shackleton miraculously ran aground in 1916 after a difficult two-week sea journey from Elephant Island. The museum commemorating this legendary expedition will teach you more about this fabulous saga, and the visit to the former whaling station will immerse you in the life of that little-known period.

Today, it is king penguins, elephant seals and fur seals that have invaded the black-sand beaches dominated by the tall peaks that reveal the Scotia Arc. 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.
Sold Out
There are currently no departures available on this trip. Either the season has ended and new dates will be released soon, or the itinerary has been updated and isn’t operating this season.
Trip Length
Cruise Length

19 Days

Trip Starts
Cruise Starts

Buenos Aires

Trip Ends
Cruise Ends

Buenos Aires

Cruise Line
Cruise Line
Ponant
Cruise Shi
Cruise Ship
Le Lyrial
Passengers
Passengers

264

Crew
Crew

140

Ship Launch
Launched

2015

Ship Refurbished
Refurbished

2021

Cruise Code
Cruise Code

USHBUE17

Itinerary

Passionate and alive with an infectious energy, Buenos Aires is a breathlessly romantic city, which blends colonial architecture with a down-to-earth Latin American clamour. Famed for steamy tango interplays and expertly seared steaks, this city is a fiery fiesta for the senses.

Visitors can choose to visit Caminito, the colourful street museum, shop at San Telmo Market, stroll through Recoleta Cemetery or cruise the Tigre River delta. Ships will dock at the Terminal de Pasajeros Benito Quinquela Martin which is a 30 minute drive from the airport and a 10 minute drive to the city centre.

Departs: 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.

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.

Throughout your time in the north of the Antarctic Peninsula, you will find yourself in the heart of a spectacular decor in subtle shades of blue and white, surrounded by exceptional wildlife. You will sail through the Antarctic Sound, named after Swedish explorer Otto Nordenskjöld’s ship, which was trapped by the ice during an important scientific expedition in 1902. The gateway to the Weddell Sea, this sound is filled with gigantic tabular icebergs and plates of sea ice drifting northward from the coastal areas of this vast sea. It is home to Adelie penguins and a great many leopard seals.

During your journey at sea, make the most of the many services and activities on board. Treat yourself to a moment of relaxation in the spa or stay in shape in the fitness centre. Depending on the season, let yourself be tempted by the swimming pool or a spot of sunbathing.

This journey without a port of call will also be an opportunity to enjoy the conferences or shows proposed on board, depending on the activities offered, or to do some shopping in the boutique or to meet the Ponant photographers in their dedicated space. As for lovers of the open sea, they will be able to visit the ship’s upper deck to admire the spectacle of the waves and perhaps be lucky enough to observe marine species. A truly enchanted interlude, combining comfort, rest and entertainment.

South Georgia, a remote island in the southern Atlantic Ocean, is a haven for wildlife enthusiasts and history buffs alike. Its rugged terrain is home to vast colonies of king penguins, seals, and other seabirds, set against the backdrop of breathtaking glaciers and mountains. The island played a pivotal role in Antarctic exploration, and the remnants of whaling stations, alongside the grave of explorer Sir Ernest Shackleton in Grytviken, offer a poignant glimpse into its past.

For visitors, South Georgia offers unparalleled opportunities for photography and wildlife observation. Despite its remote location, the island's rich biodiversity and historical sites make it a must-visit for those seeking adventure off the beaten path.

Arrives: 07:00

South Georgia, a remote island in the southern Atlantic Ocean, is a haven for wildlife enthusiasts and history buffs alike. Its rugged terrain is home to vast colonies of king penguins, seals, and other seabirds, set against the backdrop of breathtaking glaciers and mountains. The island played a pivotal role in Antarctic exploration, and the remnants of whaling stations, alongside the grave of explorer Sir Ernest Shackleton in Grytviken, offer a poignant glimpse into its past.

For visitors, South Georgia offers unparalleled opportunities for photography and wildlife observation. Despite its remote location, the island's rich biodiversity and historical sites make it a must-visit for those seeking adventure off the beaten path.

During your journey at sea, make the most of the many services and activities on board. Treat yourself to a moment of relaxation in the spa or stay in shape in the fitness centre. Depending on the season, let yourself be tempted by the swimming pool or a spot of sunbathing.

This journey without a port of call will also be an opportunity to enjoy the conferences or shows proposed on board, depending on the activities offered, or to do some shopping in the boutique or to meet the Ponant photographers in their dedicated space. As for lovers of the open sea, they will be able to visit the ship’s upper deck to admire the spectacle of the waves and perhaps be lucky enough to observe marine species. A truly enchanted interlude, combining comfort, rest and entertainment.

Passionate and alive with an infectious energy, Buenos Aires is a breathlessly romantic city, which blends colonial architecture with a down-to-earth Latin American clamour. Famed for steamy tango interplays and expertly seared steaks, this city is a fiery fiesta for the senses.

Visitors can choose to visit Caminito, the colourful street museum, shop at San Telmo Market, stroll through Recoleta Cemetery or cruise the Tigre River delta. Ships will dock at the Terminal de Pasajeros Benito Quinquela Martin which is a 30 minute drive from the airport and a 10 minute drive to the city centre.

Note: Ship ports may not be located in the starting & ending cities listed. Port and transfer details will be provided in your travel documentation. The provided itinerary is for informational purposes only. Activities and sightseeing attractions listed may not be available or achievable within the time in port.

Life On Board

Ponant
 (6) Reviews
Total No. of Cruises 360
It's time to join Ponant's team of experienced naturalist guides and expedition experts to discover some of the world’s most distant and sought-after shores, venture into the heart of extreme lands and be immersed in nature on one of many Zodiac outings and shore excursions. Whether you dream of stepping foot on the Antarctic more Peninsula, witnessing the incredible rise of Montgomery reef in the Kimberley or meeting and interacting with local communities in the Arctic, Ponant, the world leader in luxury expeditions can take you there.
Le Lyrial
Le Lyrial

Enjoy the luxury and sophistication of mega yacht cruising when you explore the seas on Le Lyrial. Read more

Luxury Staterooms and Suites
Luxury Staterooms and Suites

Relax in the comfort of chic decor and luxury in your ocean facing accommodation. Read more

Exquisite French Dining
Exquisite French Dining

Exquisite French gastronomy is the highlight of every meal you will savour in the restaurant and grill. Read more

Nightlife and Entertainment
Nightlife and Entertainment

Applaud a live show in the theatre or enjoy the social life and dancing in the main lounge. Read more

Renowned Service Excellence
Renowned Service Excellence

It doesnt matter where you are cruising, you will be well looked after from the moment you embark. Read more

Ponant Wellness Spa
Ponant Wellness Spa

Using on the best French products, a treatment in the spa will revive and rejuvenate. Read more

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Ponant Winter Inspiring Voyages (2025-26) Brochure

Ponant Winter Inspiring Voyages (2025-26)

Ponant invites you to uncover the planet’s most remote and awe-inspiring destinations—from the icy silence of Antarctica’s Ross Sea to the vibrant traditions of Papua New Guinea, the hidden gems of the Caribbean, and beyond. Blending immersive exploration with refined French elegance, these all-inclusive small-ship expeditions are enriched by expert more guides, cultural partnerships, and a deep commitment to sustainability. With over 400 itineraries spanning all seven continents, every voyage with Ponant is a journey of transformation, discovery, and understated luxury.

Prices & Dates

There are currently no departures available on this cruise. Either it's the end of the season and new departures will be released shortly, or this itinerary has been changed and is not operating this season. Feel free to contact us for information about when next seasons dates will be released or click here to view general release dates for all destinations.

Note
Tour & cruises prices are per person. Prices shown have savings applied, are subject to availability and may be withdrawn at any time without notice. Pricing and trip details are correct at this point in time, however are subject to confirmation at the time of booking and are subject to change by Ponant. For cruise itineraries, cabin images are sourced from the cruise-line and should be treated as indicative only. Cabin inclusions, upholsteries and room layout may differ to the image(s) shown depending on the ship selected and your sailing dates.

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