national geographic explorer luxury south georgia cruise

South Georgia and the Falklands

  • Overview
    Steeped in Shackleton and whaling lore, covered mostly in glaciers, South Georgia explodes with life: king, gentoo, and macaroni penguins, enormous elephant seals and a thriving fur seal population. On South Georgia you can observe one of the world’s great wildlife spectacles: tens of thousands of stately king penguins on a single beach. See the human face of the region in the Falklands, reminiscent of Great Britain, with grazing sheep, tea and crumpets. And in this privileged place, the albatross reveal the beauty of their mysterious lives.
    Duration: 18 days
    Passengers: 148 passengers
    Embarkation Point: Buenos Aires, Argentina
    Disembarkation Point: Buenos Aires, Argentina
    Physical rating: Soft Adventure
    Fly/Cruise: Mandatory extra flight
    Single Supplement: Unavailable
  • Itinerary
    • Day 1 - Buenos Aires, Argentina

      Check in to the excellent Sofitel Buenos Aires (or similiar) before having a guided overview of the city, seeing its Beaux Arts palaces and the famous balcony forever associated with Eva Peron. In the early evening we gather for an informal reception and a drink at the hotel. (L)

    • Day 2 - Buenos Aires/Ushuaia; Embarkation

      This morning's charter flight will bring us over Patagonia before landing in Ushuaia, the southernmost city in the world. If the weather is fine, you'll have a chance to view the spectacular mountains rising out of the Beagle Channel as you enjoy lunch on a catamaran cruise. Then, you'll embark the expedition ship and set sail, (B,L,D)

    • Day 3 - At Sea In The South Atlantic

      Settle into shipboard life, listening to informal discussions from our naturalist staff to prepare us for the wildness ahead in the Falklands. Spend time on deck and on the bridge, scanning for seabirds, notably the albatross. (B,L,D)

    • Day 4/5 - Falkland Islands

      Each Falkland Island is a variation on the theme of topographical beauty with white-sand beaches, vaulting cliffs, windswept moors and the sunlit yellows and sage greens of waving tussock grass. The Falklands boast thousands of irresistible gentoo, rockhopper and Magellanic penguins, as well as herds of fur and elephant seals. Our visit to Port Stanley offers a chance to meet the hospitable locals, and stroll around this remote Victorian town. (B,L,D)

    • Day 6/7 - At Sea

      During our days at sea, we learn about the fascinating history of Antarctic exploration, as well as the flora, fauna and geology of South Georgia. A lookout is kept to identify the seabirds that follow us: wandering albatross, prions and black-browed albatross. (B,L,D)

    • Day 8/12 - South Georgia Island

      Explore the spectacular coastline of South Georgia Island. In keeping with the nature of an expedition, our schedule is flexible with opportunities for walking, hiking, kayaking and Zodiac excursions. Leisurely circumnavigating the island, we plan to make stops every day including Grytviken, the final resting place of Shackleton, and Stromness Bay where Shackleton, Tom Crean and Frank Worsley finally reached aid at a whaling station. And, we visit a vast colony of tens of thousands of king penguins! (B,L,D)

    • Day 13/14 - At Sea

      With whales beneath and birds above, head out on deck or up to the Bridge to observe expert navigation at work as our skilled Captain and officers sail these waters. There’ll also be time to relax and enjoy a massage in the wellness center, work out in the gym, and browse in the library. (B,L,D)

    • Day 15 - Falkland Islands

      Our journey across the South Atlantic Ocean takes us once more to the island archipelago that teems with nature and wildlife. Take a last walk along the beautiful white-sand beaches, meander through tussock grass or sit atop a cliff and ponder the views. (B,L,D)

    • Day 16 - At Sea

      One last chance to send emails home saying “Don’t want this to end.” (B,L,D)

    • Day 17 - Ushuaia/Buenos Aires; Disembarkation

      Disembark in Ushuaia with time to explore before flying to Buenos Aires by private charter if required. (B,L)

    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.

  • Adventure Activities

    Kayaking

    The National Geographic Explorer carries kayaks designed to get guests of all experience and fitness levels out on the water comfortably and safely. And more than just a token few, we carry a veritable fleet to ensure everyone who wants to can.

    Included

    Charter Flights (National Geographic)

    The National Geographic vessels often require charter flights which are an additional cost.

    Estimated costs for these flights range between AU$1,000 - $1,500pp.

    They are recommended but not mandatory.

    USD$ 1,020 per person
  • Inclusions
    Inclusions / Exclusions

    Included in your Expedition

    - Transfers as per itinerary
    - Permits / Park fees & Port taxes
    - Hotels as per itinerary
    - Physician
    - Expedition excursions
    - Hot beverages
    - All meals on board

    Not included in your Expedition

    - Internet & Phone
    - Expedition extensions
    - Passport / visa & immigration fees
    - Private transfers
    - Additional hotel nights
    - International & Internal airfare
    - Spa treatments
    - Gratuities
    - Laundry
    - Mandatory waterproof gear not provided
    - Baggage / cancellation / interruption and medical travel insurance
  • Map
    Screen shot 2017 07 05 at 3.40.42 pm
  • Gallery
  • Vessel

    NATIONAL GEOGRAPHIC EXPLORER

    Inaugurated in 2008, National Geographic Explorer is the world’s ultimate expedition ship. The embodiment of the National Geographic alliance, her design and equipment is the result of almost 200 years of collective expedition experience. Originally built for service along Norway’s coast as part of the famed Hurtigruten, or Coastal Express, her excellent maneuverability and just-right size made her a natural choice for addition to our fleet. Drawing on our nearly 50 years of pioneering expedition history and expertise, we completely redesigned and rebuilt her. Explorer is uniquely equipped with an ice-strengthened hull and advanced navigation equipment for polar expeditions; a roster of tools for exploration; and a well-appointed interior with vast expanses of glass for an unprecedented connection to the regions we explore. She provides a peerless expedition experience. Explorer accommodates 148 guests in 81 cabins, including 13 cabins with private balconies, six spacious suites and 14 cabins specifically designed for solo travelers. At 367 feet with six decks, she is spacious and modern, with a variety of public rooms that offer startling views of the passing landscape. Friendly and informal, Explorer instantly fosters a welcoming environment where enthused and curious passengers share in exceptional experiences and enrichment.

    Features & Facilities
    • Luxury expedition vessel
    • Affiliated with National Geographic
    • Dining room & Bistro
    • Large observation decks
    • Open Bridge
    • Library
    • Observation lounge
    • 24 hour beverage station
    • Wellness Centre
    • Gym
    • laundry
    • Spa
    • Internet/Wifi
    Key Facts
    Luxury star rating: 5
    Guests #: 148
    Crew #: 70
    Ice Class: 1A
    Speed: 18
    Refurbished:
    Technical Specs
    Year built:
    Length: 112m
    Width: 16
    Draft:
    Tonnage: 6471
    Registry: Bahamas
    Elec Outlets: 220V / 2 Round Pin
Check Voyage Dates, Pricing and Availability
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Ready to book your expedition?

We understand that the trip of a lifetime takes planning, so we make the financial commitments easy to manage.

  • Confirm your booking today with just USD$ 1,000 per passenger.
  • Pay your 25% deposit 5 day later.
  • Final payment due 120 days prior to departure.

1 - Twin Cabin with Porthole

23 Oct 2018 - 09 Nov 2018
Twin cabin, with private facilities with plenty of luxury finishings
USD$ 14,443pp
USD$ 14,443pp

2 - Twin Cabin with Window

23 Oct 2018 - 09 Nov 2018
Twin or double cabin, with private facilities with plenty of luxury finishings
USD$ 15,415pp
USD$ 15,415pp

3 - Twin Cabin with Window

23 Oct 2018 - 09 Nov 2018
Twin or double cabin, with private facilities with plenty of luxury finishings
USD$ 16,265pp
USD$ 16,265pp

4 - Superior cabin with Window

23 Oct 2018 - 09 Nov 2018
Twin or double cabin, with private facilities with plenty of luxury finishings
USD$ 17,299pp
USD$ 17,299pp

SA - Single cabin with Porthole

23 Oct 2018 - 09 Nov 2018
Single cabin, perfect for the decerning solo traveller
USD$ 19,264pp
USD$ 19,264pp

SB - Single cabin with Window

23 Oct 2018 - 09 Nov 2018
Single cabin, perfect for the decerning solo traveller
USD$ 20,325pp
USD$ 20,325pp

5 - Superior cabin with Balcony

23 Oct 2018 - 09 Nov 2018
Superior cabins with Balcony and luxury finishings
USD$ 20,896pp
USD$ 20,896pp

6 - Suite with Balcony

23 Oct 2018 - 09 Nov 2018
Suite cabin with Balcony and luxury finishings
USD$ 24,099pp
USD$ 24,099pp

7 - Suite with Balcony

23 Oct 2018 - 09 Nov 2018
The largest suites with Balcony and luxury finishings
USD$ 27,954pp
USD$ 27,954pp