Falkland Islands, South Georgia & Antarctica

• Day 1 - Punta Arenas; Embarkation Day

  Our journey commences this morning in Punta Arenas, where we board our flight to Stanley in the Falkland Islands. After a short 90-minute journey we are met on arrival and transferred to the pier. Stanley is home to 2,000 residents and is reminiscent of a charming, rural town in coastal Britain, full of brightly colored houses, flower-filled gardens, a quaint cathedral and several pubs. There is time to explore the town before embarkation.

  Our most far reaching polar expedition visiting three stunning locations.

• Day 2 - Falkland Islands

  Having cruised down the eastern coastline of the Falkland Islands overnight, we are at the far south-eastern end of the archipelago. Near the barren and windswept Sea Lion Island, we launch the Zodiacs for our first shore excursion. If we enjoy good weather conditions we may be able to visit neighboring Bleaker Island, another settlement on this remote eastern coast of the Falklands. In the evening, we navigate into the Scotia Sea towards South Georgia.

• Day 3/4 - At Sea

  The seabirds join us as we leave the Falklands. Stand out on the decks watching the giant albatross and petrels as they duck and weave on the winds of the South Atlantic. Our onboard photographic guide will be able to give you tips about image composition, the subtle polar light, and the basics of good camera craft.

• Day 5/8 - South Georgia

  South Georgia has often been called the ‘Serengeti of the Southern Ocean’. We explore the island from our Zodiacs. Large numbers of fur seals and the much larger elephant seal will line the dark sand beaches.

  Living in the tussock grass, king penguins and their chicks may number up to 100,000 birds in some locations. The island is also home to large numbers of nesting albatross, filling the skies above as they come and go from their nests. South Georgia is a thrilling location for history buffs: we will plan to visit the rusting relics of the early whaling industry, including several old stations, and the gravesite of the great explorer, Sir Ernest Shackleton.

• Day 9/11 - Scotia Sea Crossing

  Weather and ice will dictate our crossing of the Scotia Sea from South Georgia to Antarctica, leading us perhaps to the South Orkney Islands or Elephant Island. As with all of our itinerary planning, our expedition leader and captain will make a decision based on the conditions at the time. As we edge ever closer to the frozen continent, large icebergs announce our arrival in Antarctic waters.

• Day 12/16 - South Shetland Islands & Antarctica

  Possible landing sites in the South Shetland Island group could include King George Island, Half Moon Island, Yankee Harbour or Hannah Point. Weather conditions permitting we sail the ship into the flooded volcanic caldera of Deception Island.

  Finally, after so much anticipation, we enter the icy waters of the Antarctic Peninsula in the vicinity of Mikkelson Harbour or Cierva Cove. Snow covered mountains soar from the dark waters. Along the shoreline in the bays and harbors of the Peninsula lives an incredible abundance of wildlife. Large rookeries are home to chinstrap, gentoo and Adelie penguins. Seals live on the ice floes, including the powerful leopard seal that we hope to encounter. Gulls, skuas and cormorants are also found nesting and feeding at many sites along the Antarctic Peninsula.

  We explore by Zodiac boat and ashore, where a range of wonderful activities await: join the photographic guide and take close up photos of the penguins or the impossibly blue ice; enjoy a hike to the top of a snowy mountain saddle with one of our adventure guides; or perhaps visit a science base or an old historic hut. The sea kayakers may range up to several miles from the ship, for a truly memorable experience. Each day, you will have a range of great choices.

• Day 17 - King Georgia Island (Antarctica) - Return to South America

  This morning we say goodbye to our expedition team and transfer ashore by Zodiac. We walk from the shore landing site past the Chilean research station and up towards the airstrip where we board our special charter flight. This flight takes a little over two hours and is included in the price of your voyage. Upon arrival into Punta Arenas a transfer from the airport into town is provided.

  IMPORTANT NOTE: This itinerary includes a complimentary post-voyage hotel night in Punta Arenas for all guests returning from voyages that conclude at King George Island. This evening is at your leisure. Punta Arenas is home to some cozy restaurants, cafes and bars – including the historic ‘Shackleton Bar’ at the Hotel Jose Nogueira – a fitting location to reflect on your journey to Antarctica.

• Day 18 - Punta Arenas; Departure day

  After breakfast and check-out, make your own way to the airport for your onward journey. (We recommend you book flights after midday). Otherwise, why not continue your exploration of Patagonia. Just a few hours north, lies the celebrated Torres del Paine National Park – home to towering
  peaks, glaciers and spectacular wilderness - a paradise for hikers and nature lovers.

Please consider that our voyages are expeditionary in nature. This means, that there are no concrete itineraries, your Captain and Expedition Leader will utilise their vast experience to chart the best course for your expedition depending on the climatic and environmental conditions. Mentioned highlights and wildlife cannot be guaranteed.