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Overview
Enjoy all of the highlights of South Georgia and the Antarctic peninsula
On this adventure, massive albatross and Pintado petrel swoop and soar around
the ship, guiding us toward South Georgia. Beaches teeming with King penguins
and Elephant seals greet us on this fabled island, where we’ll pay our
respects to famed explorer Sir Ernest Shackleton. Antarctica awaits, with its
geographic contradictions and overwhelming enormity. Relax on a Zodiac ride,
hike glistening glaciers, share comical moments with inquisitive penguins,
and witness the rugged peninsula. Antarctica will surprise and delight, and
never disappoint.
Highlights
* Experience the quintessential wildlife experience of the “Galapagos of
the Poles”
* Visit South Georgia’s King penguin rookeries – the largest in the
world
* Reflect at the resting place of the great explorer, Sir Ernest Shackleton
* Visit abandoned whaling stations and learn stories of inhabitants who
called South Georgia home
* Witness abundant Antarctic wildlife, including penguins, seals, whales and
more
* Experience western Peninsula highlights and visit iconic landing sites
* Travel on a small expedition vessel
* Accompanied by extremely qualified Expedition Staff
Itinerary – Penguin Safari including Antarctica, Argentina, and South Georgia
Day 1: Ushuaia, Argentina
Welcome to Ushuaia, the gateway to Antarctica, located at the southern tip of Argentina in Tierra del Fuego, also known as “The End of the World.” If you have extra time, visit Tierra del Fuego National Park or stroll around town, enjoying the waterfront views over the Beagle Channel. You might also want to indulge in some locally crafted chocolate at a café. In the evening, join a welcome meeting at the hotel and enjoy some free time before the adventure begins tomorrow.
Accommodation: Hotel (1 night)
Meals: None
Day 2: Embarkation in Ushuaia
In the afternoon, board your expedition ship and begin your epic journey south. Settle into your cabin and begin cruising the Beagle Channel, a waterway that cuts through the Tierra del Fuego archipelago. Say goodbye to Argentina as you sail toward Antarctica.
Accommodation: Expedition Ship (1 night)
Meals: Breakfast, Dinner
Day 3-6: At Sea
Over the next few days at sea, enjoy various activities offered on board. Attend presentations on the region, learn about seabird identification, and participate in safety briefings for Zodiac cruises and shore landings. Optional activities such as sea kayaking will be available for those who want a more intimate way to explore. Watch for Shag Rocks and keep your binoculars ready for sightings of whales!
Accommodation: Expedition Ship (4 nights)
Meals: Breakfast (4), Lunch (4), Dinner (4)
Day 7-9: South Georgia
Arriving in South Georgia, you’ll witness one of the world’s most fertile breeding grounds for sub-Antarctic wildlife. The island is home to penguin colonies and seals. Experience the rich wildlife and explore abandoned whaling stations that tell the story of the island’s past. One of the highlights of South Georgia is Grytviken, the former whaling station where Sir Ernest Shackleton is buried.
Accommodation: Expedition Ship (3 nights)
Meals: Breakfast (3), Lunch (3), Dinner (3)
Day 10-11: At Sea
After leaving South Georgia, embark on the journey toward Antarctica. Over the next two days, enjoy more presentations and workshops about the incredible wildlife and landscapes awaiting you. Onboard amenities are available for your relaxation as you sail toward the White Continent.
Accommodation: Expedition Ship (2 nights)
Meals: Breakfast (2), Lunch (2), Dinner (2)
Day 12-15: Antarctic Peninsula
Arriving at the Antarctic Peninsula, prepare for a land of extremes. The Antarctic environment offers incredible experiences, from the stillness and isolation of ice-covered land to the excitement of calving glaciers. Participate in Zodiac cruises to visit penguin colonies and historical sites, and keep an eye out for seals and whales. Optional excursions, including paddling and the Polar Plunge, will also be available for the adventurous.
Accommodation: Expedition Ship (4 nights)
Meals: Breakfast (4), Lunch (4), Dinner (4)
Day 16-17: Crossing the Drake Passage
As you sail back toward Ushuaia, spend two days crossing the Drake Passage. This is a rite of passage for all Antarctic explorers, and you can relax while watching for seabirds and whales or attend presentations by your expedition team. Reminisce about the wildlife and landscapes you’ve encountered on this remarkable journey.
Accommodation: Expedition Ship (2 nights)
Meals: Breakfast (2), Lunch (2), Dinner (2)
Day 18: Disembarkation in Ushuaia
After breakfast, disembark in Ushuaia. If you wish to extend your stay in Ushuaia, arrange this with your booking agent, or catch your flight home from here.
Meals: Breakfast
Special Information
- The trip ends in Ushuaia in the morning after breakfast. Please ensure your onward flight departs after 12 pm.
