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An aerial view of Cape Town

From Antarctica to Africa

Example 23 Day Cruise aboard Le Lyrial
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Discover this new voyage between Ushuaia, located in the mythical Tierra del Fuego and commonly regarded as the southernmost city in the world, and Cape Town, South Africa at the entrance gate of the Cape of Good Hope. Embark on a 23-day expedition cruise, including the Falkland Islands and South Georgia, a sub-Antarctic region formed by a chain of underwater mountains. These places of adventures are home to rich and fascinating wildlife including king penguins, humpback whales, elephant seals, and fur seals. Discover three of the most isolated islands in the world: Tristan da Cunha, a volcanic and mountainous land remarkable for its 2,000-meter peak; Gough Island, home to one of the world’s largest seabird colonies and listed as a UNESCO World Heritage site; and Nightingale Island, a refuge for many penguins.
A group of penguins in the Falkland IslandsA spectacular iceberg off the coast of AntarcticaBlack-browed albatross pair, Falkland IslandsI'm bigger than you! Gold Habour, South GeorgiaAn aerial view of Cape Town
Highlights
  • Discover the unspoiled islands and emblematic sites of Antarctica
  • Marvel at seals, dolphins, whales, and vast colonies of penguins
  • Explore the isolated islands of the Tristan da Cunha Archipelago
  • Tour the port city of Cape Town, situated at the base of Table Mountain
  • Enjoy closer looks at the landscapes and wildlife in guided zodiac outings
Activities
Places Visited
Trip Type:
  • Small Ship
Activity Level: Relaxed
0

Full Itinerary

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Day 1: Arrive Buenos Aires, Argentina

Meet and greet the local representative at the hotel. Check-in is available starting from late morning. This afternoon is at your leisure before meeting your fellow passengers for dinner. Overnight at the hotel.

Day 2: Flight from Buenos Aires | Ushuaia | Embark

  • Ship
  • 1 Breakfast, 1 Lunch, 1 Dinner
After an early morning breakfast transfer to the airport for your flight from Buenos Aires to Ushuaia. Approximate flight duration: 3 hours, 30 min.

Depending on your choice made when booking your cruise (options not combinable): You will be transferred to a restaurant for lunch. OR When booking the cruise, guests willing to visit the Tierra del Fuego National Park will be able to sign up for an optional group excursion, with extra cost. If you decide to do so, please note that immediately upon arrival at Ushuaia airport, you will leave towards the Park where you will have lunch before starting the tour.

This afternoon, embark on your ship.

Day 3: At Sea

  • Ship
  • 1 Breakfast, 1 Lunch, 1 Dinner
During your day at sea, make the most of the many services and activities on board. Treat yourself to a moment of relaxation in the spa or stay in shape in the fitness center. Depending on the season, let yourself be tempted by the swimming pool or a spot of sunbathing. This day without a port of call is an opportunity to enjoy the conferences or shows proposed on board, to do some shopping in the boutique or to meet the photographers in their dedicated space. As for lovers of the open sea, they are able to visit the ship’s upper deck to admire the spectacle of the waves and perhaps be lucky enough to observe marine species. A truly enchanted interlude, combining comfort, rest and entertainment.

Day 4: New Island | Grave Cove, Falkland Islands

  • Ship
  • 1 Breakfast, 1 Lunch, 1 Dinner
The Falkland Islands are an archipelago lost at the tip of the South American continent. They are composed of over 700 islets and two main islands, East Falkland and West Falkland, both declared nature reserves. As Le Soleal finds its way towards New Island, lying in the west of the archipelago, the coastlines, carved by the wind and sea, form numerous isolated inlets with beaches of golden sand. These faraway lands, which once attracted seal and whale hunters, have become the last sanctuary of the elegant black-browed albatross, which glides gracefully through the air against the blue sky, while southern rockhopper penguins and elephant seals bask on the shore. 

Later today make your way through the turbulent Woolly Gut Strait and emerge in the stillness of Grave Cove. Located in the northern edge of the Falkland Islands, this bay owes its name to the vestiges of whalers’ graves that overlook the beach. As you step off the boat and onto the white-sand beach, you might find yourself escorted by a few hospitable Commerson's dolphins, elegantly adorned in black and white. A stroll along the grassy dunes leads you to a vast plain of lush green grass, tended by a few sheep. On the other side of the island find one of the largest gentoo penguin colonies in the area. With some luck, also glimpse a sea lion scouring the waves for his next meal.

Day 5: The Neck, Saunders Islands

  • Ship
  • 1 Breakfast, 1 Lunch, 1 Dinner
The Neck is a narrow stretch of land connecting the two sides of Saunders Island, located on the northwestern edge of the Falklands. Safely enter these blustery surroundings with the assistance of your naturalist guides. Once there, a reward awaits you: a veritable paradise of endless shoreline lapped by turquoise waters. Several bird species, also attracted to this stunning location, have settled here. At the other end of The Neck, encounter Magellanic penguins, southern rockhopper penguins, black-browed albatross, and king penguins, all basking in the beauty of their surroundings.

Day 6-7: At Sea

  • Ship
  • 2 Breakfasts, 2 Lunches, 2 Dinners
Enjoy the luxury and amenities aboard Le Lyrial. Experienced naturalist guides share their knowledge about the flora and fauna of the unique region. 

Day 8-10: South Georgia

  • Ship
  • 3 Breakfasts, 3 Lunches, 3 Dinners
Aboard your ship, discover South Georgia, a region formed by an underwater mountain chain that extends from the Andes to the Antarctic Peninsula. All the wildlife of the Far South can be found there: king and Gentoo penguins, elephant seals, fur seals… You might get the chance to discover the majestic glaciers of Gold Harbour and the vast plains of Fortuna Bay. If you are fortunate enough to land at Salisbury Plain, you can expect a wonderful spectacle: more than 300,000 king penguins, which you can recognize by the bright orange mark on their head and neck, have taken up residence there.

Day 11-14: At Sea

  • Ship
  • 4 Breakfasts, 4 Lunches, 4 Dinners
Share photos and stories with fellow travelers as Le Lyrial continues across the South Atlantic Ocean. 

Day 15: Tristan Da Cunha, British Overseas Territories

  • Ship
  • 1 Breakfast, 1 Lunch, 1 Dinner
A small British archipelago discovered in the 16th century by the Portuguese sailor after whom it was named, Tristan da Cunha is made up of several islands scattered off the South African coast. Most of these are listed as UNESCO World Heritage Sites. During your cruise aboard Le Lyrial, discover the archipelago's eponymous main island, offering visitors basalt land lulled by the swell, home to the only village in the chain of islands, and topped with a volcano. 

Day 16: Nightingale Island, British Overseas Territories

  • Ship
  • 1 Breakfast, 1 Lunch, 1 Dinner
This small active volcanic island of 3 km2 belongs to the isolated Tristan da Cunha island chain, far out in the South Atlantic. Totally uninhabited, the island is visited only by researchers for whom it offers a rich field of observation. The island is colonized by over a million birds, including great shearwaters and Atlantic yellow-nosed albatross, two iconic species of these Subantarctic waters.

Day 17: Gough Island, British Overseas Territories

  • Ship
  • 1 Breakfast, 1 Lunch, 1 Dinner
The second largest of the Tristan da Cunha Islands, the volcanic Gough Island is one of the least disrupted islands and marine ecosystems in the cool temperate zone. The spectacular cliffs of Gough Island host some of the most important sea bird colonies in the world. The island's undisturbed nature makes it particularly valuable for biological research. Gough Island became a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1995.

Day 18-21: At Sea

  • Ship
  • 4 Breakfasts, 4 Lunches, 4 Dinners
Making its way toward the final destination, Le Lyrial cruises to the southernmost tip of the African continent. Battered by the waves of the Indian and Atlantic oceans, the Cape of Good Hope is considered to be one of the most inspiring locations in the world. A paradise for many marine animals, today it is one of the three headlands that dominate the Table Mountain National Park, a vast green expanse stretching out over 7,000 kilometers. From the ship, admire the spectacle of clear waters crashing against the tall, steep cliffs and relive the excitement of the sailors of old. 

Day 22: Sailing Around the Cape of Good Hope | Cape Town

  • Ship
  • 1 Breakfast, 1 Lunch, 1 Dinner
Located at the southern tip of the African continent, the Cape of Good Hope was originally dubbed the Cape of Storms by Portuguese explorer Bartolomeu Dias, due to its position at the confluence of two opposing ocean currents. One of the most iconic sites on the planet, the area is a veritable paradise for a number of marine animal species. The cape is one of three promontories offering a breathtaking view onto Table Mountain National Park, a stunning 7,000 km2 stretch of greenery. From your ship, take in the impressive scene of clear ocean waves crashing against steep, towering cliffs.

Head towards Cape Town.

Day 23: Cape Town | Disembark

  • 1 Breakfast
Dynamic and peaceful, cosmopolitan and hip, Cape Town offers its visitors a most unique mix. Here, the locals like to say that their city is “the quintessential melting pot of South Africa”. Located in the heart of one of the most beautiful bays in the world and dominated by the famous Table Mountain, it is graced with extraordinary landscapes including sheer cliffs that plunge into the Atlantic Ocean and vast white-sand beaches. Discover this incredible city, the South African capital of fashion, the art of living, and gastronomy. Further on, the Cape of Good Hope Nature Reserve awaits you and is home to a wide variety of endemic fauna and flora. Following breakfast on board, disembark in Cape Town and transfer to the airport for your homeward journey.

Ship/Hotel

Le Lyrial

Le Lyrial masthead
Le Lyrial
The sleek, intimate Le Lyrial sails under the French flag and entrances her passengers with her contemporary decor, comfortable suites, and refined ambiance. Her elegant design allows her to be an ideal sailing vessel.
Le Lyrial Lobby
Le Lyrial Observatory Lounge
Le Lyrial Restaurant

Buenos Aires - Hotels

NH Lancaster
Enjoy the classic and contemporary styles at the NH Lancaster in downtown Buenos Aires. Enjoy your stay in one of the 115 rooms available with beautiful views of the heart of Buenos Aires. This hotel is just moments away from many famous spots, from boutiques to the lush green scenery of the Plaza San Martin.
Lobby of the Art Hotel
A Hotel
Located in one of Buenos Aires’ most beautiful areas, Recoleta, the hotel combines all the characteristics of a European “hotel de charme” with the architectural splendor of a 100-year old town house. The ground floor contains an art gallery and the rooms have been decorated with drawings, paintings, photographs, and sculptures of Argentine artists. Enjoy this great city location in Buenos Aires!
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Enjoy a restful stay at the Casa Calma
Casa Calma
The only certified eco-hotel in the city, guests to Casa Calma Hotel will encounter the finest in modern sustainable accommodations. Spacious rooms each equipped with a personal spa center, minimalist public spaces, organic eateries and more at this boutique hotel.
Buenos Aires
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Dates & Prices

My Preferred Start Date

Per person starting at
$11,263
Cabins on the Le Lyrial
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Superior Stateroom
Individually-controlled A/C, en suite shower, desk, Wi-Fi access, TV, and stereo.
Cabins on the Le Lyrial
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Deluxe Stateroom
28 cabins, 200 sq. ft. + 43 sq. ft. private balcony. Located on Deck 3. Individually-controlled A/C, en suite shower, desk, Wi-Fi access, TV, and stereo.
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Prestige Stateroom - Deck 4
35 cabins, 200 sq. ft. + 43 sq. ft. private balcony. Individually-controlled A/C, en suite shower, Wi-Fi access, TV, and stereo.
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Prestige Stateroom - Deck 5
37 cabins, 200 sq. ft. + 43 sq. ft. private balcony. Individually-controlled A/C, en suite shower, Wi-Fi access, TV, and stereo.
Cabins on the Le Lyrial
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Prestige Stateroom - Deck 6
1 cabin, 200 sq. ft. + 43 sq. ft. private balcony. Individually-controlled A/C, en suite shower, Wi-Fi access, TV, and stereo.
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Deluxe Suite
3 cabins on Deck 6, 290 sq. ft. + 54 sq. ft. private balcony. Individually-controlled A/C, en suite shower, sofa, armchair and pedestal table, Wi-Fi access, TV, and stereo.
Cabins on the Le Lyrial
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Prestige Suite - Deck 5
11 cabins, 398 sq. ft + 86 sq. ft. private balcony. Individually controlled A/C, ensuite bathroom with shower, desk, sofa, armchair & table, 2 TVs, stereo, Satellite telephone, Wi-Fi access.
Privilege Suite on the Le Lyrial
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Privilege Suite
8 cabins, 398 sq. ft + 86 sq. ft. private balcony. Individually controlled A/C, ensuite bathroom with shower, desk, sofa, armchair & table, 2 TVs, stereo, Satellite telephone, Wi-Fi access.
Cabins on the Le Lyrial
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Grand Deluxe Suite
1 cabin, 484 sq. ft. + 96 sq. ft. private balcony. Individually controlled A/C, ensuite bathroom with jacuzzi and shower, desk, TV, stereo, Satellite telephone, Wi-Fi access.
Grand Privilege Suite on the Le Lyrial
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Grand Privilege Suite
7 cabins, 398 sq. ft. + 86 sq. ft. private balcony. Individually controlled A/C, ensuite bathroom with bathtub and shower, desk, minibar, TV, stereo, Satellite telephone, Wi-Fi access.
Owner's Suite on the Le Lyrial
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Owner Suite
On Deck 6, 592 sq. ft. + 129 sq. ft. private balcony. Individually controlled A/C, ensuite bathroom with jacuzzi and shower, desk, sofa, table with 4 chairs, armchair and table, 2 televisions, stereo, Satellite telephone, Wi-Fi access.

Notes

*Rates are capacity controlled and are subject to change without notice.

Cruise fares are per person and include the following:
  • All meals while on board the ship 
  • Captain’s welcome cocktail and gala dinner
  • Gratuities to onboard crew, local guides, and drivers
  • “Open Bar” (pouring wines, house champagne, alcohol except for premium brands...list available upon request)
  • Evening entertainment and events
  • Room service 24h (special selection)
  • Highly qualified bilingual French/English expedition team
  • Water sports activities (except scuba diving) using the ship’s equipment, when permitted by local authorities and confirmed by ship Master according to safety and sea conditions onsite
  • Park entry fees into protected areas
  • Complimentary boot rental (except for guarantee deposit)
  • Complimentary polar parka for you to keep (no children sizes available)
  • Free and unlimited Wi-Fi (Internet access may be slower or in some situations interrupted, depending on certain geographic locations or other circumstances beyond our control).
Hotel, Flights, Cruise, and Transfers program rates are per person and also include:
  • 1-night accommodation in a 4* hotel the night before embarkation.
  • Early check-in available from late morning.
  • Hospitality desk at the hotel in Buenos Aires.
  • Outbound flight Buenos Aires/Ushuaia selected, in economy class.
  • Services of local guides, in Ushuaia.
  • Meals as mentioned in the program and beverage package.
  • Transfers as mentioned in the program.
For your optional Tierra del Fuego National Park excursion, your program includes:
*Please note that this excursion is subject to a minimum number of participants, there will be an additional cost and it is not combinable with lunch in Ushuaia and therefore replaces it.
  • The excursion by local bus and the entrance fees to the National Park
  • The lunch with the beverage package
  • Transfers and visit as mentioned in the program
  • The services of a local English speaking guide
Cruise rates do not include:
  • The optional excursion “Tierra del Fuego National Park” on embarkation day in Ushuaia. This excursion must be prebooked and paid at least 3 months prior to departure.
  • Any ground services before and/or after the cruise other than the ones mentioned in each “Cruise, Flights & Transfers” package and for which details are available upon request.
  • The optional pre-and post-cruise programs, over lands and excursions.
  • Visa expenses (which may include additional administrative charges imposed by the authorities of a country) and/or immigration reciprocity taxes if applicable
  • Luggage handling
  • Optional Spa package to be booked prior to your departure
  • Beverages other than the ones mentioned
  • Laundry services, hair salon, and à la carte Spa treatments
  • Personal expenses, on board medical consultations and drug prescriptions
  • Cancellation/luggage/assistance/repatriation/medical insurance(s)
  • Optional Kayaking Discovery and Kayaking Exploration excursions. Kayaking options must be pre-booked.
These voyages include activities such as Zodiac® landings (sometimes wet landings), Zodiac® outings, moderate walks, to more active hikes. All this accompanied by your expedition team of naturalist guides. Considering the nature of the programs, a reasonable level of mobility is required to enjoy these expeditions.

Due to the exceptional nature of this itinerary, the calls/sites listed are only a guide. The final route will be confirmed by the ship’s Captain with priority being given to passenger safety. Pack ice may also force the Captain to change course at the last minute. Zodiac® landings or outings accompanied by your expedition team offer plenty of opportunities to discover and experience what Antarctica and/or South Georgia have to offer at close range. These will, of course, depend on the weather conditions, the ice, the wind, and the sea state.

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Our guide and driver were very good with their knowledge and were very helpful with our questions. It was a very pleasant visit that would have been impossible to do on our own. Hotels and restaurants were fantastic. The special places we got to go to, like the kitchens, were great. Enjoyed the entire trip!
Meyer Smolen

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