Falkland Islands – South Georgia – Antarctic Peninsula

Your journey begins in Ushuaia.

At sea.

The Falkland Islands are home to a rich wildlife, including numerous bird species as well as Peale’s dolphins and Commerson’s dolphins in the surrounding waters. During this trip, you can visit various areas: – Carcass Island: Despite its name, this island is free of rodents and is home to a variety of birds, including Magellanic and Gentoo penguins, as well as endemic species such as Cobb’s wren and the tussock bird. – Saunders Island: Here you can observe the black-browed albatross during its occasionally comical landings. This island is also home to king cormorants, rockhopper penguins, as well as king, Magellanic, and Gentoo penguins.

Port Stanley, the capital of the Falkland Islands, combines South American influences with a touch of Victorian charm. Colorful houses, well-kept gardens, and English pubs characterize the cityscape. In the surrounding area, historical shipwrecks from the 19th century are silent witnesses to maritime history. A small yet fascinating museum tells the story from the beginnings of settlement to the Falklands War.

The rarely visited southern islands are a rare delight and offer a thorough tour of their rugged beauty. This region is a paradise for various species of wildlife, especially birds. George Island and Barren Island in particular support more than 40 bird species, along with about 650 pairs of southern storm petrels. You also have a good chance of seeing elephant seals and colonies of southern sea lions.

At sea.

Today you reach South Georgia and start your activities. Weather conditions can be challenging and determine the program. Visiting options are: 1. Fortuna Bay – Home to king penguins and seals at Fortuna Glacier. You can follow the last part of Shackleton’s route to Stromness, with boggy terrain. 2. Salisbury Plain, St. Andrews Bay, Gold Harbour – The largest king penguin colonies and breeding grounds for Antarctic fur seals. Elephant seals and young elephant seals can be seen. 3. Grytviken – An abandoned whaling station where king penguins roam freely and elephant seals lie around. You can also visit the South Georgia Museum and Shackleton’s grave.

At sea.

Depending on the prevailing conditions, there is the possibility to visit Base Orcadas, an Argentine scientific station on Laurie Island. The staff on site will be happy to show you around the station. If a visit here is not possible, you can alternatively land at Shingle Cove on Coronation Island.

Huge icebergs and a good chance of fin whales provide variety on this final stretch to the south. Here you can also observe Antarctic petrels. Activities will begin depending on conditions in the afternoon of day 15.

Depending on ice conditions, the route leads into the Weddell Sea with impressive tabular icebergs and the possibility to visit Paulet Island with its large Adelie penguin population. Otherwise, Elephant Island will be headed for and an attempt made to enter the Antarctic Sound. The exact departure time depends on conditions in the Drake Passage.

Crossing Drake Passage

Arrival in Ushuaia