You will journey through three of the most iconic regions of the far south: the Falkland Islands (Islas Malvinas), South Georgia, and the Antarctic Peninsula. As you travel south, the landscapes gradually transform from remote sub-Antarctic islands to the dramatic ice-covered world of Antarctica. Along the way, you will encounter thriving colonies of penguins and other remarkable polar wildlife set against vast glaciers and towering peaks. The voyage also echoes the spirit of legendary explorer Ernest Shackleton, whose remarkable story remains one of the defining chapters of polar exploration. Together, these elements create a truly unforgettable Antarctic expedition.
Welcome to Ushuaia, the southernmost city in the world and the gateway to Antarctica. Nestled between the Andes Mountains and the Beagle Channel, this remote Patagonian port has long been the starting point for expeditions to the White Continent. Upon arrival, transfer independently to the designated hotel and check in. Today is an arrival and gathering day. You may choose to explore the waterfront, enjoy the crisp southern air, or simply rest in preparation for the journey ahead. All meals today are at your own expense.
After breakfast, we gather at the hotel and transfer as a group to the pier for embarkation. As the ship casts off and sails through the Beagle Channel, snowcapped peaks gradually fade into the distance and your Antarctic expedition officially begins. Your Expedition Team will conduct mandatory briefings and introduce the plans for the days ahead. As evening approaches, we head east across the South Atlantic toward the Falkland Islands (Islas Malvinas).
We will spend the day sailing south across the South Atlantic. As we leave the continent behind, the ocean environment gradually changes. On board, the expedition team will offer presentations on the regions ahead, covering wildlife, landscapes, and the history of human exploration in the sub-Antarctic and Antarctic realms.
The Falkland Islands (Islas Malvinas) form a remote archipelago in the South Atlantic, combining open landscapes, dramatic coastlines, and vibrant wildlife. During our time here, we will balance nature focused landings with visits to settled areas, gaining insight into both the islands’ ecosystems and their cultural history.
Possible landing and cruising sites may include:
Leaving the Falkland Islands (Islas Malvinas), we will sail southeast toward South Georgia. During these 2 days at sea, temperatures begin to cool and seabird activity increases. The expedition team will continue preparing us for the intensive wildlife encounters ahead, including briefings on landing procedures and environmental protection.
South Georgia is one of the most wildlife rich islands in the Southern Ocean and is renowned for its vast king penguin colonies, where hundreds of thousands, and in some areas over a million, king penguins breed along the beaches. Towering mountains, glaciers, and grassy coastal plains create a dramatic backdrop for daily landings. Over several days, we will explore different parts of the island, experiencing an extraordinary concentration of wildlife and scenery.
Possible landing and cruising sites may include:
We will depart South Georgia and sail south toward Antarctica. Floating ice becomes more common, and the environment takes on a distinctly polar character. On board, presentations will focus on Antarctic geography, history, and conservation, preparing us for arrival in Antarctic waters.
The South Shetland Islands and the Antarctic Peninsula form the gateway to the Antarctic continent and represent the most frequently visited landing areas in Antarctica. Here, glaciers, ice cliffs, and snow covered peaks define the landscape, while penguins and seals thrive along the coastline. Daily plans will remain flexible, shaped by ice and weather conditions.
Possible landing and cruising sites may include:
Leaving Antarctic waters behind, we will begin sailing north across the Drake Passage. The expedition team will offer recap sessions, bringing together the journey from the South Atlantic to South Georgia and the Antarctic Peninsula. Time on deck and in the lounge allows space to reflect on the landscapes, wildlife, and experiences encountered along the way.
In the morning, we will arrive in Ushuaia, often referred to as the world’s southernmost city. After breakfast, we will disembark and say farewell, bringing this journey through the Falklands (Islas Malvinas), South Georgia and Antarctica to a close.
Included in this voyage:
Excluded in this voyage:
