Ultimate Voyage: South America & Antarctica: 25 days Buenos Aires to Santiago

Welcome to Buenos Aires, where you’ll stay overnight. Perhaps plan to spend some time in the city, nicknamed the ‘Paris of South America’. Resplendent with Belle Époque buildings, sidewalk cafes and green spaces, there’s the fiery passion of Latin America – a collective love for football, flame-cooked meats (asado) and the tango.    Some of the highlights are La Boca, a colourful, creative mecca with a must-do art walk, and San Telmo, a former aristocratic neighbourhood abandoned during a 19th-century epidemic. Mansions were turned into conventillos (shared housing), boutique hotels, antique shops, and tango clubs, exuding a captivating bohemian vibe. 

Depart Buenos Aires on an included flight to Ushuaia the gateway to Antarctica and the world’s southernmost city, nestled on the rugged shores of Tierra del Fuego. The Captain and crew will warmly greet you as you board your ultra-luxury Scenic Discovery Yacht.   
 
Raise a glass of Champagne as you set sail through the legendary Beagle Channel, tracing the path of Charles Darwin’s historic voyage. From your private verandah or the Observation Deck, take in breathtaking views of the snow-capped Andean peaks and pristine Patagonian wilderness — marking the beginning of an unforgettable Expedition Voyage.  

Enjoy breakfast in your suite as your Scenic Discovery Yacht navigates the legendary Drake Passage bound for Antarctica. Take in the vast expanse of the Southern Ocean as each moment brings you closer to an unforgettable exploration.  Feel the excitement building as the Discovery Team shares with you all the details on how your Zodiac, helicopter^, submersible^ and other Discovery Excursions will work. Get familiar with the team and your polar equipment – your expedition kit includes an expedition parka and water bottle that are yours to take home, plus the use of specialised polar boots, trekking poles and specific equipment you need for kayak and stand-up paddleboard activities. Between landings, your outdoor gear will be stored in a personal locker in the Discovery Centre.   Prepare yourself for unparalleled ‘pinch-me’ moments, and be exposed to the unpredictability of the region, with your expert team deciding the course of action in the coming days.    The team will make every attempt to have numerous landings and Discovery Excursions, including Zodiac, kayak and optional helicopter^ flights and submersible^ dives.  

Today you will enter Antarctic waters, an unpredictable but stunningly beautiful environment. Put on your complimentary polar parka and head to the Observation Deck to spot icebergs for the first time – it’s a feeling that will stay with you forever.   
 
Watch out for whale blows in the distance. Your Discovery Team will be available to provide insightful information.   Be sure to check your Daily Program for the essential biosecurity and boot fitting schedule. And join the fascinating enrichment lecture on marine and seabird life – a captivating experience that will enhance your knowledge and connection to the natural world around you.   On board, savour a leisurely lunch at Azure Bar & Café, where you can graze throughout the day as you take in spectacular ocean views. This evening, enjoy a glass of Champagne at Lumière's Champagne Bar, or choose from a range of distinct culinary experiences, before settling into an evening of thoughtfully curated entertainment. 

Slide open the floor-to-ceiling doors of your verandah suite to see icebergs sculpted by nature and glacial mountains rising from the ocean. Antarctica is a birdwatcher's delight, home to a variety of species, so keep your eyes peeled for wandering albatrosses, shearwaters, giant petrels and more.   Due to the extraordinary nature of the region, Discovery Excursions throughout your Expedition Voyage are dependent on weather and ice conditions. Your experienced Captain and Discovery Leader, who have made countless journeys to Antarctica, will use their expertise to design a bespoke voyage, making the most of your time in this spectacular destination.    Visit the open bridge on Deck 7 to meet the Captain and navigational team and gain first-hand insight into a Scenic Discovery Yacht’s state-of-the-art technology from one of the most inspiring vantage points on board. 

Scenic Discovery: Daily experiences may include cruising on Zodiacs, stepping ashore to view vast penguin rookeries or historic huts, and kayaking or stand-up paddleboarding around icebergs. Wherever your voyage takes you, you will have countless “pinch me" moments.  

Start your day with freshly squeezed juice, steaming barista-made coffee or tea delivered to your suite by your butler. Then set out on Zodiac excursions to explore breathtaking glaciated bays, tranquil channels and pristine landing sites. As you trek across the Antarctic wilderness, meet the adorable chinstrap, Adélie and gentoo penguins that inhabit this magical region.  Small groups offer the best way to experience an environmentally sensitive destination like Antarctica. You will board the Zodiacs according to your designated colour, with our expert polar Discovery Team guiding you, ensuring an unforgettable and unique adventure.   Back on board, warm up in the Senses Spa, with infrared saunas, steam room and signature thermal loungers or gather at the Observation Lounge where floor-to-ceiling windows frame the polar landscape. 

Various species of penguins can be found in the Antarctic and the sub-Antarctic region, including Adélie, chinstrap and the gentoo. Guided by your expert Discovery Team, you’ll witness colonies up close; hear their calls and watch as they clumsily waddle along and interact with each other.    Whales are another majestic creature you may encounter, including minke whales, humpback whales or orcas. Watch them up close in a kayak or a Zodiac with your Discovery Team or observe them from the comfort of your ultra-luxury Scenic Discovery Yacht. Whichever way you see them, it’s a breathtaking experience. 

Scenic Discovery: During daily Discovery Excursions, ask your expert Discovery Team for photography tips so you can best capture the incredible wildlife and landscape around you. To see Antarctica from above or below the horizon book an optional helicopter^ or submersible^ experience. 

From the moment it was discovered, Antarctica has held an irresistible allure for intrepid explorers. The bold exploits of legendary explorers like Scott, Shackleton, and Amundsen have fuelled its mystique, inspiring generations to venture into this untamed wilderness.   On this unforgettable day, you’ll cruise past Antarctica's stunning icy mountains before stepping ashore by Zodiac to immerse yourself in the polar wilderness. With ample time to explore, this voyage ensures you experience the magic of this awe-inspiring landscape up close.   Back on board, enjoy a warm speciality tea or coffee in the Observation Lounge and take in the views through the Swarovski telescopes.  

In the untouched silence of this frozen wilderness, nature’s rare sounds become unforgettable, whether it’s the endearing chatter of penguins squabbling over prized pebbles or the thunderous roar of a glacier calving into the sea.   Towering glaciers provide one of the most awe-inspiring spectacles of your journey, with the chance to witness massive ice formations breaking away, creating brand-new icebergs before your eyes, a moment of pure wonder.   On board, explore some of your Scenic Discovery Yacht’s indulgent spaces, from the welcoming Observation Lounge to the expansive Senses Spa#. Choose from a selection of world-class culinary experiences on board tonight.   

On board your ultra-luxury Scenic Discovery Yacht, every moment is crafted for both comfort and connection. Our inviting Scenic Lounge provides the perfect setting to unwind and share unforgettable experiences with like-minded travellers.   For those craving excitement, the legendary Polar Plunge offers a thrilling rush — an unforgettable dive into icy waters, expertly coordinated by the Discovery Leader and Captain.  If you prefer to stay warm, find a prime viewing spot and enjoy the spectacle as fellow guests take the plunge, then join them for a toast with a glass of whiskey or a steaming cup of hot chocolate. 

Scenic Discovery: Glide past towering icebergs on a Zodiac, step onto untouched white snow, and soar over vast mountain ranges. This is one of the world's few remaining pristine wildernesses, awaiting your exploration.  

As you cruise back across the Drake Passage toward South America, take this time to indulge in the ultra-luxury comforts of your Scenic Discovery Yacht, and reflect on the awe-inspiring moments you’ve experienced.  Perhaps start your day with an invigorating workout in the state-of-the-art POWER: Gym, a guided Pilates session, or a moment of relaxation in the PURE: Yoga & Pilates Studio.   During the day, the theatre comes to life with captivating lectures from our Discovery Team. Don´t forget to check the Daily Program on your in-suite TV for timing, you won’t want to miss these inspiring sessions.  As evening arrives, unwind in the elegant Scenic Lounge Bar, where you can toast to your expedition with a perfectly aged whiskey, a glass of fine wine, or a flute of French Champagne — all part of Scenic’s truly all-inclusive ultra-luxury philosophy.

Travel isn’t just about where you go; it’s about how you feel along the way. Days at sea on board your Scenic Discovery Yacht offer something rare: the chance to slow down, reflect and embrace the beauty of the ocean. It’s not a pause, it’s part of the adventure.  Make sure you book a final treatment# at the tranquil Senses Spa before your Expedition Voyage ends. Perhaps an ESPA facial or massage or an alternative therapy including Ayurvedic treatments or Japanese shiatsu. Afterwards, hold on to that feeling of calm for a whilst longer in the Zen-like space of the Vitality Lounge.   Return to one of your favourite bars and lounges for a pre or post dinner drink, then savour refined dining before live music brings your evening gently to a close. 

Nestled between the snow-capped peaks of the Andes and the icy waters of the Beagle Channel, Ushuaia is a city of rugged, unforgettable beauty. Renowned as the southernmost city in the world, this remote outpost serves as the gateway to both Antarctica and Patagonia’s spectacular wilderness.

Here, dramatic landscapes meet a rich history of exploration, from early pioneers to legendary Antarctic expeditions. Wander the charming streets, framed by mountains and fjords, or simply take in the crisp southern air as you reflect on the extraordinary journey that has brought you to the edge of the world.

Cruise through the legendary waters of Cape Horn, where the Atlantic and Pacific Oceans meet at the southernmost point of South America. The meeting of these two oceans is a spectacular display of nature and a great place to spot sea lions, penguins and whales.

Continue through the Beagle Channel, tracing the southern edge of Patagonia, and named after the ship that carried Charles Darwin on his five-year discovery journey. Admire the dramatic views of the Andean mountains from the comfort of your ultra-luxury Scenic Discovery Yacht.

Join an introductory presentation by the Discovery Team in the state-of-the-art theatre. Learn about the journey ahead through Chilean Patagonia and towards the polar frontier and feel the excitement building as they explain how your Discovery Excursions will work in the coming days.

The theatre is where you can listen to lectures, enjoy movies and documentaries during the day. As night falls, experience unforgettable performances — from musical theatre and cabaret to pop, dance and interactive game shows.

Scenic Discovery:
Weather and sea conditions permitting, take the opportunity to explore this remote archipelago, celebrated for its breathtaking beauty and dramatic landscapes. Join activities organized by the Discovery Team, such as a hike to the lighthouse and a visit to the Cape Horn Monument.

As you cruise through this remarkable region, witness Seno Garibaldi, one of a handful of advancing glaciers in the world. Continue to Seno Pia, where you’ll have the chance to explore this glacier's striking ice crevasses and meandering rivers. This spectacular area, recognised as a World Heritage-listed Biosphere Reserve, teems with marine life — including seals, sea lions, and a variety of seabirds — while the majestic Andean condor soars overhead. Watch the breathtaking scenery slip by as you relax in a cabana on Deck 10. Alternatively, ask your butler to deliver afternoon tea to your suite and relax on your private verandah.

Scenic Discovery:
Get ready in your Discovery attire and join your Discovery Team for Zodiac cruising near the Seno Garibaldi and Seno Pia glaciers. Sit in silence and listen for the crack or thunder of a calving. If you're wanting a more active adventure, enjoy kayaking around the bergy bits.

Venture deep into the heart of the Patagonian fjords of southern Chile as your Scenic Discovery Yacht navigates the untouched Agostini Fjord, a sanctuary of raw, natural beauty. Towering peaks rise dramatically above glacial-blue waters, leading to the awe-inspiring Agostini Glacier, a shimmering cascade of ice spilling from the rugged Darwin Mountain Range. As you cruise through this remote wonderland, keep your eyes peeled for playful seals, soaring seabirds, and majestic humpback whales in their pristine habitat.

Scenic Discovery:
Join your Discovery Team to get close to southern Chile’s coastline in a Zodiac. This is the ultimate way to spot wildlife – while gaining in-depth knowledge of the landscape thanks to your talented, eagle-eyed guide.

Punta Arenas is located at the southern extreme of Chile, in the heart of Patagonia, and serves as the gateway into Antarctica as well as Torres del Paine National Park. Overlooking the Strait of Magellan, this historic port flourished during the California Gold Rush – its prime position served as a haven for ships. The city will delight with its clean air, sophisticated European architecture and wildlife.

When back on board, you may wish to book a treatment# at the tranquil Senses Spa. Perhaps indulge in an ESPA facial# or an alternative therapy including Ayurvedic massage#.

Navigate the labyrinth of the Patagonian fjords of southern Chile – their long narrow inlets and steep cliffs, channels and islands all carved by glaciers. From the Observation Deck with its commanding view of the bow, marvel at the towering peaks, cascading waterfalls, and dense forests of this pristine wilderness. When not covered in ice, the shore is a unique mix of temperate and Sub-Antarctic flora, from deciduous beech trees to edible Calafate berries.

Stay alert for delightful sightings of elephant seals, dolphins, and majestic whales gracefully accompanying your voyage – use your complimentary in-suite binoculars to find these as they blend into the landscape.

Savour the relaxed atmosphere at the Yacht Club as you enjoy al fresco dining. Featuring grilled-to-perfection meats, fresh seafood and seasonal produce, it’s ideal for a leisurely lunch or a laid-back dinner under the stars.

Cruise deep into Patagonia’s Inner Fjords and the English Narrows, which is home to remote Puerto Eden. This is the only settlement inside the Chilean Inside Passage, a region with a mountainous terrain and a thriving Magellanic sub-polar forest. You will be able to learn about the ancient Mapuche culture, navigate the town’s intricate wooden boardwalks and see its native wildlife.

Witness the stunning Pio XI Glacier, which is nestled within the Bernardo O’Higgins National Park, in the heart of Chilean Patagonia, and spans the size of Santiago. Also known as Brüggen Glacier, this exceptional wonder is one of the few glaciers on Earth that is still expanding daily.

Scenic Discovery:
Take the opportunity to explore your destination through a variety of exciting experiences organised by the Discovery Team. During the evening recap, the Discovery Leader will share insights and provide a preview of what's to come.

After days of exploration, spend time relaxing on board your ultra-luxury Scenic Discovery Yacht. Delve into an insightful conversation with one of your Discovery Team members after an educational lecture in the state-of-the-art theatre. Comprised of up to 20 members, this team of geologists, historians, ornithologists, marine biologists, and glaciologists is at the heart of your Expedition Voyage. Alternatively, simply watch as the world slips by as you relax in a cabana on Deck 10 or in the privacy of your suite’s verandah.

Join new friends over a relaxed meal at the Azure Bar & Café. Graze the day away with all-inclusive drinks and dining experiences as the culinary team goes to the Nth Degree to ensure the most enjoyable moments at every bite.

Discover Castro, set on the enchanting island of Chiloé, where exquisite natural beauty meets rich cultural heritage. Nestled beside a spectacular fjord and home to Chiloé National Park, this region is a haven for diverse wildlife on the island’s wild west coast. Spot a glimpse of the local penguin colony, comprising Magellanic and Humboldt penguins, which migrate to the region. Stroll through the city streets and sample local delicacies, such as the Chiloé potato, and marvel at the many World Heritage-listed churches, known for their ecclesiastical wooden architecture.

After a day of exploration, choose from up to 10 world-class culinary options for dinner. Perhaps try Koko’s Asian Fusion for a vibrant experience inspired by the diverse flavours of Asia. From expertly rolled sushi to sizzling stir-fries, every dish is crafted with authentic ingredients and served in a stylish, modern setting.

A busy town in the Chilean Lake District, Puerto Montt sits near the end of the Pan-American Highway – this legendary stretch of road begins in Alaska and continues to Ushuaia in Argentina. Framed by snow-capped volcanoes and lush green landscapes, it serves as a gateway to the stunning Andean Alps. Stroll along its bustling waterfront, explore colourful markets brimming with artisan crafts and fresh seafood.

As you enjoy your time on board your Scenic Discovery Yacht, you may wish to visit the state-of-the-art POWER: Gym for an invigorating workout or go to the PURE: Yoga & Pilates Studio for a Pilates class, some guided stretching or aerial yoga.

Enjoy a sleep-in this morning lulled by the rhythm of the ocean. Wake up at your own time and perhaps request your butler to deliver breakfast to your spacious suite or meet fellow guests in the al fresco Yacht Club.

Later, arrive in Niebla, home to the 17th-century Niebla Fortress. Nearby Valdivia is known as one of Chile's most beautiful cities, a vibrant and tenacious university town that has endured various challenges including the catastrophic earthquake of 1960, the strongest ever recorded, which nearly submerged the city.

Today is yours to do as much or as little as you like. Perhaps start with breakfast delivered to your suite by your butler or go for a workout in the POWER: Gym. You may also enjoy a class in the PURE: Yoga & Pilates Studio, followed by some time in the KLAFS salt therapy lounge.

Check the daily program for today's on-board activities and make sure to join your voyage recap hosted by the Discovery Team in the state-of-the-art theatre.

Thanks to the Captain’s open bridge policy, guests are welcome any time to learn more about the technical abilities of your Scenic Discovery Yacht and see it in full operation.

This evening, indulge in fine French dining at Lumière+, where elegant surroundings and impeccable service set the tone. Enjoy beautifully prepared dishes paired with expertly-curated wines — the best way to end your day in refined style.

Your Expediton Voyage ends today in the World Heritage-listed city of Valparaíso, with its long and colourful history dating to the 16th-century conquistadors. It’s a vibrant city, both for its cultural scene – rich in theatre, music, performance and street art – and for its brightly painted buildings that occupy its steep hillsides.

Wave farewell to the crew and fellow guests as you disembark after breakfast, carrying with you lasting memories of an unforgettable journey through Patagonia.

Please book your flight to depart out of Santiago after 02:00 PM.

#Spa treatments and services at additional cost. Daily activities may be subject to change; please consult your Daily Wonder for updates.
+All drinks on board, including those stocked in your mini bar, are included, except for a very small number of rare, fine and vintage wines, Champagnes and spirits. Specialty restaurants require a reservation, enquire on board.
^Experiences on board our two helicopters and submersible are at additional cost, subject to regulatory approval, availability, weight restrictions, medical approval and weather and ice conditions.
~Kayak and stand-up paddleboard not available in all locations.

The itinerary is a guide only and may be amended for operational reasons. As such Scenic cannot guarantee the voyage will operate unaltered from the itinerary stated above. Please refer to our terms and conditions for further information.