South Georgia & The Falkland Islands
Highlights
- Walk among vast king penguin colonies at St Andrews Bay and Gold Harbour, where elephant seals sprawl beneath hanging glaciers.
- Trace Shackleton’s epic survival story at Grytviken and Fortuna Bay, with an optional hike across South Georgia’s rugged terrain.
- Explore Saunders and Bleaker Islands for rockhopper penguins, black-browed albatross, and a taste of Falklands culture in Stanley.
This remarkable journey takes you from the southern tip of Patagonia to two of the most wildlife-rich and remote destinations in the South Atlantic: the Falklands (Malvinas) and South Georgia. Sailing out of Punta Arenas and along the historic Strait of Magellan, you’ll follow in the wake of legendary explorers toward islands that feel truly wild and wonderfully far from everyday life.
In the Falklands, you’ll step ashore on white-sand beaches and rolling green hills alive with wildlife. Colonies of rockhopper and gentoo penguins share the coastline with nesting black-browed albatross, while in Port Stanley you can stroll colourful streets, visit maritime landmarks, and enjoy a warm local welcome. It’s a fascinating blend of raw nature and small-island culture.
As you sail onward to South Georgia, seabirds glide alongside the ship and whales are often spotted from the decks. This is one of the greatest wildlife strongholds on the planet. At places like St Andrews Bay, Salisbury Plain, and Gold Harbour, you may find yourself standing among tens of thousands of king penguins, with elephant seals resting nearby and glaciers towering in the background. The scale of it all is simply breathtaking.
History is woven into the landscape here, too. In Grytviken, you’ll visit Ernest Shackleton’s grave and learn about his extraordinary story of survival. For those who wish, there’s even the chance to take an optional Shackleton walk, retracing part of his final mountain crossing. Zodiac cruises in sheltered bays and guided landings led by expert expedition staff make every day active, immersive, and deeply rewarding.
During days at sea, you’ll enjoy engaging talks, wildlife watching from the lounge or outer decks, and time to ref...
Ships
Standard Activities
About the South Georgia & The Falkland Islands
This remarkable journey takes you from the southern tip of Patagonia to two of the most wildlife-rich and remote destinations in the South Atlantic: the Falklands (Malvinas) and South Georgia. Sailing out of Punta Arenas and along the historic Strait of Magellan, you’ll follow in the wake of legendary explorers toward islands that feel truly wild and wonderfully far from everyday life.
In the Falklands, you’ll step ashore on white-sand beaches and rolling green hills alive with wildlife. Colonies of rockhopper and gentoo penguins share the coastline with nesting black-browed albatross, while in Port Stanley you can stroll colourful streets, visit maritime landmarks, and enjoy a warm local welcome. It’s a fascinating blend of raw nature and small-island culture.
As you sail onward to South Georgia, seabirds glide alongside the ship and whales are often spotted from the decks. This is one of the greatest wildlife strongholds on the planet. At places like St Andrews Bay, Salisbury Plain, and Gold Harbour, you may find yourself standing among tens of thousands of king penguins, with elephant seals resting nearby and glaciers towering in the background. The scale of it all is simply breathtaking.
History is woven into the landscape here, too. In Grytviken, you’ll visit Ernest Shackleton’s grave and learn about his extraordinary story of survival. For those who wish, there’s even the chance to take an optional Shackleton walk, retracing part of his final mountain crossing. Zodiac cruises in sheltered bays and guided landings led by expert expedition staff make every day active, immersive, and deeply rewarding.
During days at sea, you’ll enjoy engaging talks, wildlife watching from the lounge or outer decks, and time to reflect on the vast ocean around you. By the end of the voyage, you’ll likely feel both humbled and uplifted — having travelled to places few people ever see, walked among some of the largest king penguin colonies in the world, and experienced the raw beauty of the Southern Ocean up close. This itinerary is ideal for wildlife lovers, photographers, history enthusiasts, and adventurous travellers who want to experience nature on an epic and unforgettable scale.
Itinerary
Punta Arenas, Embarkation
From 9:00 hrs., make your way to Explorers House in Punta Arenas and enjoy the facilities. At 16:00 hrs., a group transfer will take you to the port for embarkation. As we sail along the Strait of Magellan, our Expedition Team will introduce the history of this fabled sea route.
At Sea
Saunders Island, Carcass Island
Port Stanley
At Sea
Elsehul Bay
Grytviken, Fortuna Bay
Gold Harbour, Cooper Bay
St. Andrews Bay, Ocean Harbour
Prion Island, Salisbury Plain
At Sea
Bleaker Island
At Sea
Punta Arenas
Our Sea Kayaking program is an exclusive experience under the guidance and leadership of an experienced Kayak Master, who takes our guests on a sea journey through icy waters while observing massive glaciers and aquatic wildlife.
What equipment is provided?
• Double or single kayak
• An adjustable paddle
• Top-quality dry suit
• Booties, pogies and warm hat
• Spray skirt and life vest
What equipment should I bring?
• Thermal under layer
• Comfortable pants and few crew neck tops
• Two pairs of waterproof gloves
• Thermal socks
• Warm hat and neck gaiter
Prices
Ocean Nova: $895 USD per person
Magellan Explorer: $995 USD per person
What's Included
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Daily buffet breakfast and lunch on board the ship offering a wide choice of dishes.
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Dinner served daily on board the ship offering a choice between one of three main courses.
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Wine, beer, juice, and soft drinks served with lunch and dinner on board.
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Coffee, tea, chocolate, cappuccino, water, and snacks on board the ship throughout the expedition.
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All guided shore excursions.
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Lectures and entertainment on board.
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Comprehensive pre- and post-voyage information material.
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Loan of waterproof boots for landing in Antarctica.
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IAATO passenger fee.
What's Excluded
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Mandatory travel insurance.
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Accommodation, meals, excursions, and transfers other than those included in the itinerary. Specifically, dinner in Punta Arenas upon return from Antarctica is not included.
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Beverages purchased at the ship’s bar.
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Internet connection on board the ship.
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Extra expenses (communication, laundry, souvenirs, etc.).
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Gratuities.
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Visas for Chile, passport expenses, and any arrival and/or departure tax, if applicable.