Depart on an overnight flight to Buenos Aires, Argentina, "the Paris of South America."

Arrive this morning and transfer to your hotel (where immediate check-in has been arranged) with time to relax before this afternoon's optional city tour. As complex as it is energetic and seductive, this port city has been the gateway to Argentina for centuries, bringing many porteños (as the multi-national people are known) into its boundaries. Although it is reminiscent of Paris, the true spirit of the city is evident in its diverse neighborhoods - each with a character as varied as the porteños themselves. Meet your fellow adventurers this evening for a welcome cocktail reception.

Fly to Ushuaia, the southernmost city in the world. There is time for sightseeing and a traditional Patagonian barbecue lunch. Later, arrive at your ship and settle in for your first night on board. 'Minerva' is a comfortable yet stylish ship, both spacious and passenger-friendly. Wander the decks, relax in the lounge and mingle with fellow travellers in anticipation of your voyage.

The southward journey toward Antarctica is an exciting one. Fast-flowing southern ocean currents squeezing between land masses give the Drake Passage, the small strip of sea between the tip of South America and Antarctica, some of the world's roughest waters. An important trade route in the 19th and early 20th centuries, its stormy waters and icy conditions often made the journey around Cape Horn a difficult one, though the stabilizer-equipped 'Minerva' handles it easily. The krill-rich waters are a particular favorite with marine mammals and seabirds. Join 'Minerva's' naturalists on the deck to look for whale, dolphin and abundant seabirds.

As the Antarctic Peninsula and its offshore islands appear on the horizon, a sense of excitement and expectation begins to build. Shore excursions are carefully planned by the captain and expedition leader to take full advantage of each day's possibilities. On most days, two landings are scheduled. Head out in swift and versatile Zodiacs, guided by expert drivers and accompanied by lecturers, to a number of penguin-filled islands in the South Shetlands, including Half Moon, Penguin and Deception. Other possible island visits just off the continental coastline may include Cuverville, Paulet or Goudier.

Weather permitting, the ship calls on the Antarctic Peninsula. 'Minerva' also plans to sail through stunning Paradise Bay and the Lemaire Channel, affectionately referred to as "Kodak Alley," with other possibilities for exploration including a scientific research station and the remains of early-century whaling and sealing stations.

The ship's return through the Drake Passage is an interlude for recap and reflection, with time to compare notes with your lecturers on the wildlife, history and geology of the White Continent. While cruising through this historic passage, named in honor of Sir Francis Drake's voyage in the 16th century, you may be able to spot whale and seabirds such as albatross.

Disembark after breakfast and transfer to the airport to board your flight home via Buenos Aires.

Arrive this morning and connect to homebound flights.