Falklands, South Georgia, And Antarctica - Explorers and Kings

Ushuaia, Argentina, serves as the starting point for this grand adventure. Nestled in the Tierra del Fuego archipelago, Ushuaia may seem like a quaint small town at first glance. Still, it's alive with various shops, museums, cafés, and restaurants waiting to be explored before you set sail. For those with a thirst for adventure, the surrounding Tierra del Fuego National Park and Martial Glacier present numerous outdoor activities, including hiking, to immerse yourself in the region's stunning natural beauty.

The excitement builds as you begin your journey. It's time to swap your land legs for sea legs, introduce yourself to fellow adventurers, and familiarise yourself with your new home at sea. Each journey to Antarctica brings unique opportunities and experiences, making the embarkation day thrilling for you and your Expedition Team. On board, the team will look after your comfort and safety and work tirelessly to turn your wildlife aspirations into reality.

As you journey across the sea, your days will be enriched with engaging presentations from the Expedition Team, covering topics from photography and wildlife to glaciology and history. When you're not soaking up new knowledge, take the opportunity to scan the horizon for wildlife from the deck or enjoy some camaraderie over drinks at the bar with your fellow travellers.

As soon as you set foot in the Falklands (Malvinas), you'll find ample opportunities to use your camera to capture the rich wildlife and rugged charm of this sub-Antarctic region. The archipelago, consisting of the two main islands, East Falkland and West Falkland, will be yours to discover through daily Zodiac excursions and landings.

A visit to Stanley, also known as Port Stanley, is always a highlight. This town exudes a distinctive British outpost vibe, peppered with a unique eclectic charm. Feel free to wander, enjoy a pint at a local pub, or explore the various churches and museums at your leisure.

The Falklands are a haven for bird enthusiasts, boasting various species, including Magellanic, Gentoo, and southern rockhopper penguins. With some luck, you might even glimpse the majestic king penguins. The islands are also home to the black-browed albatross and two species found nowhere else: the flightless Falkland steamer duck and, if fortune favours, the rare Cobb's wren.

Throughout your stay, our polar experts will deepen your appreciation and understanding of the Falklands' unique ecosystem, ensuring you fully experience the wonders of this remarkable archipelago.

As we set our course southeast towards South Georgia, our adventure takes a significant turn the moment we cross the Antarctic Convergence. This unseen boundary wraps around the continent, marking where the chilly waters of the Antarctic blend with the warmer currents of the Indian, Pacific, and Atlantic oceans. This natural phenomenon creates a hotspot for krill, drawing whales, seals, and a variety of birdlife to the region. Your Expedition Team will let you know when we've crossed this crucial line and will guide you in spotting the seabirds and marine creatures that thrive in this fertile expanse.

This far-flung island, with its rugged mountains, was once a bustling hub for early Antarctic explorers and a centre for whaling and seal hunting. Nowadays, while the wildlife is making a remarkable comeback, the island still bears the scars of its past, with the ruins of old whaling stations and deserted outposts dotting the landscape.

One of the most poignant places you'll encounter in South Georgia is the final resting place of the legendary explorer Sir Ernest Shackleton. His grave is in Grytviken, a settlement featuring the remnants of a whaling station, alongside a museum, gift shop, church, and a modest research station.

While South Georgia's historical significance is undeniable, the island's extraordinary wildlife will truly mesmerise you. Often described as the "Galapagos of the Poles," each visit to South Georgia presents a new spectacle of nature. One day, you might find yourself amidst vast colonies of king penguins stretching as far as the eye can see. Another day could bring you face to face with beaches thronged by scores of fur or elephant seals. The island's vegetation, mountains, and sandy stretches are crucial for the reproduction and survival of these species. Your Expedition Leaders will enrich your experience by shedding light on the intricate and delicate balance that sustains this rich tapestry of life.

It's time to bid farewell to the king penguins because Antarctica is on the horizon! As you navigate the seas towards your next awe-inspiring destination, your days will be packed with informative presentations, interactive workshops, and plenty of social activities, all hosted by your dedicated Expedition Team.

Describing the experience of arriving at the Antarctic Continent is a tall order, but awe and deep respect are often the first emotions that come to mind. In Antarctica, you'll find yourself moving between extremes—the profound silence and isolation one moment, and the next, you're chuckling at the sight of a penguin's playful behaviour.

Your days will be filled with adventure, from Zodiac cruises that bring you up close to the icy landscape to visits at historical points of interest and, of course, memorable encounters with seals and penguins. You might even lock eyes with a leopard seal, known as the penguin predator, or find yourself in a face-off with an Antarctic minke whale during a Zodiac journey. Every day offers a new set of wonders, ensuring your camera and sense of wonder are always engaged.

For those seeking even more thrilling experiences, consider an optional kayaking expedition (be sure to book in advance). Or, if you're feeling particularly bold, take part in the Polar Plunge—a refreshing dive into icy waters that's sure to be an unforgettable highlight of your trip!

After over three weeks of unique wildlife sightings and breathtaking landscapes, it's time to start the journey home. The Drake Passage, known for its unpredictability and exhilaration, is an adventure all its own. As our expert onboard staff ensures your comfort and safety, you'll have ample opportunity to watch the ocean, capture photos of seabirds gliding by the ship, and ponder the unforgettable Antarctic experiences you've had.

The moment arrives to bid farewell to your Expedition Team after a final breakfast together on the ship. Airport transfers will be arranged for those catching the earliest flights back home. If your flight leaves later, you'll be transported to the town centre instead, marking the end of our shared journey