Imagine visiting South Georgia, where you’ll discover historic explorer sites and old whaling stations. You’ll encounter great colonies of impressive king penguins, and fur seals in such numbers that you won’t believe your eyes. Three quarters of the world’s population of these charming ‘sea puppies’ breed here - attracting some deadly hunters; killer whales.
Imagine being confronted by vast colonies of rock-hopper penguins and black-browed albatrosses. Imagine braving the extremes of temperature, the floating ice fields, the monstrous yet beautiful icebergs.
Now imagine that, instead of the comfort of a cruise ship you’re undertaking the 800-mile voyage in a 22 foot boat. That is what Shackleton achieved, before coming to his final resting place at Grytviken.
The legendary Antarctic. Unimaginable.
The Falkland Islands, South Georgia and Antarctica is the ultimate itinerary when visiting this part of the planet. Itineraries range in length from 19-21 days and are sometimes reversed, starting with Antarctica and ending with the Falkland Islands.
Shore visits are included but depend on weather conditions. Extra excursions vary with different itineraries and weather, and could typically include:
- Kayaking to icebergs and floes
- Camping on the polar ice
- Hiking
A variety of boats operate this itinerary, but only a handful of times a season (from November to March). The majority of itineraries start and end in Ushuaia, but on occasion begin in Buenos Aires or Puerto Madryn. Some ships also operate 'Air-Cruises', starting or ending with a flight to Stanley on the Falkland Islands from Punta Arenas in Chile (cutting out one of the ocean crossings).
PLEASE NOTE: All itineraries are for guidance only. Programs may vary depending on local ice, weather, and wildlife conditions. The on-board expedition leader will determine the final itinerary. Flexibility is paramount for expedition cruises.