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South Georgia & Antarctic Odyssey feat. South Sandwich Islands

Roundtrip Ushuaia - Example 24 Day Cruise aboard Sylvia Earle
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Embark on your Antarctic adventure from Ushuaia. Explore charming Ushuaia, then set sail for the Falklands~Malvinas, Falklands, South Georgia, and the seldom-visited South Sandwich Islands. Engage in wildlife encounters, historic sites, and the breathtaking beauty of Antarctica. Reflect on your cruise as you cross the Drake Passage and disembark in Ushuaia.
Visit remote outposts on an Antarctic voyageA seal sleeping on a mound of snow.A whale plays near the surface at dusk.
Highlights
  • Attempt a landing on an island for a chance to encounter a colony of chinstrap penguins
  • Celebrate Christmas and New Year on this epic Antarctic voyage
  • Become one of the very few to reach the South Sandwich Islands
Activity Level: Relaxed
Involves minimal physical effort and is typically associated with leisurely activities. Activities are low-intensity or last less than a few hours each day.
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Full Itinerary

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Day 1: Arrival in Ushuaia

Arrive in Ushuaia, where you will be met by a representative of Aurora Expeditions and transferred to your group hotel (preferred flights only). Arrive in Ushuaia, where you will be met by a representative of Aurora Expeditions and transferred with your fellow expeditioners to your assigned pre-voyage hotel. Check-in is from 3.00 pm.

This afternoon, visit the Aurora Expeditions hospitality desk in the lobby at Las Hayas Ushuaia Resort, Luis Fernando Martial 1650, between 3.00 pm and 7.00 pm to collect your luggage tags, and confirm if you wish to join their scheduled group excursion on the following day. Depending on availability, this would either be an Ushuaia Introductory City Tour or Beagle Channel and Isla de Los Lobos Cruise (sea lion island).

Aurora Expeditions' team will confirm details regarding your embarkation day, answer any questions, and provide you with information on where to dine or purchase last-minute items.

The remainder of your time is at leisure. All meals today are at your own expense.   

Day 2: Embarkation Day | Ushuaia

  • Ship
  • 1 Breakfast, 1 Dinner
This morning, enjoy a leisurely breakfast at the hotel Ushuaia, capital of Tierra del Fuego is located at the shores of the Beagle Channel and surrounded by the Martial Mountains giving you a unique landscape in Argentina, which is the combination of mountains, sea, glaciers and forests.
Today, you have the option to join any one of these excursions (to be confirmed by Aurora Expeditions the day prior):
  • Beagle Channel and Isla de Los Lobos Cruise - Those wishing to join our afternoon catamaran cruise, meet back at the hotel lobby at 12.45 pm ready to transfer to the port at 1.00 pm. Here we board our catamaran and sail the Beagle Channel, towards the city’s iconic Les Eclaireurs Lighthouse. Crossing the Bridges Archipelago we’ll slow down to watch colonies of sea lions and imperial cormorants sun themselves on the rocky outcrops, while gulls, rock cormorants, skuas, petrels, albatrosses and cauquenes are often sighted. Our cruise offers panoramic views of the city and the surrounding mountain range, in addition to hearing tales of the people and communities of the region. 
  • Ushuaia Introductory City Tour - On this half-day introductory tour, you will visit “La Mision” neighborhood, the old Government House, and the upper area of the city, which offers beautiful panoramic views of Ushuaia and the Beagle Channel. During the excursion, you will see the antique houses that belonged to the first families settled in Ushuaia. The excursion ends with a visit to the Old Prison Museum before transferring to the pier for embarkation at approximately 4.00 PM.  
Alternatively, enjoy your day at leisure and meet at your hotel lobby at 3.45 pm to be transferred to the pier for embarkation.
 
After embarkation, you’ll have time to settle into your cabin before your important mandatory briefings. As the ship pulls away from port, you'll gather on the deck to commence your adventure with spectacular views over Ushuaia and Tierra del Fuego.

This evening, get to know your fellow expeditioners and friendly expedition team and crew at a welcome dinner to celebrate the start of a thrilling adventure to Antarctica.  
 

Day 3: At Sea

  • Ship
  • 1 Breakfast, 1 Lunch, 1 Dinner
As you commence your trip across the South Atlantic Ocean towards the Falklands~Malvinas, make the most of your time getting comfortable with the motions of the sea. The expedition team prepare you for our first landing with important wildlife guidelines and biosecurity procedures and start your lecture program to help you learn more about the region’s history, wildlife, and environment.

Your wildlife experiences begin as you enjoy watching and photographing the many seabirds, including majestic albatrosses and giant petrels following in our wake. They rise and fall skillfully, using air currents created by the ship to gain momentum.

Day 4-5: Falklands - Malvinas

  • Ship
  • 2 Breakfasts, 2 Lunches, 2 Dinners
Explore the Falklands~Malvinas, a captivating archipelago comprising two expansive islands, East and West Falkland, along with over 700 scattered isles. Only seven of these islands are inhabited, boasting windswept coastlines, white sand beaches, and crystal-clear waters. Immerse yourself in these beautifully barren havens, home to a diverse birdlife, including the world's largest black-browed albatross colony. The nutrient-rich waters surrounding the islands create a prime location for spotting marine life.

Embark on an expedition across the Falklands~Malvinas, where your expert team, seasoned from countless journeys, actively designs your daily voyage. They select the best options based on prevailing winds, weather conditions, and wildlife opportunities.

Experience daily landings or Zodiac excursions, venturing into rocky coves or along sea cliffs, watching for seals, sea lions, dolphins, and penguins. Layer up for the chilly conditions as you join Zodiac Cruises. These small boats will shuttle you from the ship to the shore, providing opportunities to visit albatross colonies, penguin rookeries, and enjoy a traditional English ‘tea and scones’ at a local cottage.

Weather permitting, land in historic Stanley, the capital of the Falklands~Malvinas. This charming town exudes a distinctly British character with terraced townhouses, pioneer cottages, and even an iconic red telephone box! Explore colorful buildings housing cozy cafes, English pubs, souvenir shops, a post office, and the fascinating Historic Dockyard Museum. Delve into displays on the maritime history of the Falkland Islands, natural history, and connections to Antarctica.

Day 6-7: At Sea

  • Ship
  • 2 Breakfasts, 2 Lunches, 2 Dinners
As you sail between the Falklands~Malvinas and South Georgia, you find yourself captivated by the ceaseless flight of the numerous seabirds that follow and circle the ship. The onboard lecture program continues, featuring presentations from our team of experts. You have the opportunity to enjoy the ship's many facilities, borrow a book from our well-stocked library, or perhaps stay active in the fitness center.

Day 8: At Sea | South Georgia

  • Ship
  • 1 Breakfast, 1 Lunch, 1 Dinner
Today, as you sail towards South Georgia, your arrival time hinges on sea and weather conditions.

Approaching the rugged island, consider the journey of Captain James Cook in 1775, who believed it marked the northern tip of a great southern continent! Despite its small size—only 176 km (110 mi) in length—it boasts a 3,000 m (9,842 ft) snow-capped mountain range, some of the world’s largest wildlife congregations, and a captivating human history. South Georgia is an island of incredible riches.

As you near, witness jagged mountain peaks rising steeply, with seabirds often soaring around the ship. Sail down the coast to take in the spectacular glaciated scenery. This enchanting coastline is yours to explore!

If time and weather conditions permit, you might pass close to Shag Rocks en route—a fascinating group of jagged rocky islets protruding from the sea in the proximity of South Georgia.

Day 9-12: South Georgia

  • Ship
  • 4 Breakfasts, 4 Lunches, 4 Dinners
Your experienced expedition team actively utilizes their local knowledge to plan your voyage from day to day, selecting the best options based on the prevailing weather, sea state, and wildlife opportunities.

Remember to layer up before participating in Zodiac excursions that zip into craggy coves and along the rocky coastline, seeking nesting penguins, seal haul-outs, and bird cliffs. Keep a vigilant eye out for South Georgia’s kelp forests - these remarkable underwater ecosystems mesmerize as their fronds sway back and forth on the water’s surface.

Our Zodiacs actively transport you ashore, allowing you to visit some of the largest king penguin colonies on Earth, partake in a guided walk among fur seals and elephant seals (be sure to heed your guides and maintain a safe distance!), and meander along pebbled streams and grassy glacial outwash plains. We also aim to visit the remnants of South Georgia’s thriving whaling stations and pay respects to Sir Ernest Shackleton, whose incredible survival voyage is synonymous with this island. If you've opted for an optional activity, you can partake whenever conditions allow.

In addition to Zodiac and shore excursions, we may actively cruise through fjords with towering cliffs of ancient stone or into deeply indented bays towards dramatic glacier fronts. This is an excellent time to find a comfy spot in the observation lounge or make your way to the bridge (open at the Captain’s discretion) to actively enjoy uninterrupted views of South Georgia’s majestic coast.

Day 13: At Sea

  • Ship
  • 1 Breakfast, 1 Lunch, 1 Dinner
As you sail across the Scotia Sea towards the white continent, the ship's team of experts will continue their series of onboard lectures. You may choose to enjoy the facilities on board the vessel, including the sauna and jacuzzis, or stay active in the gym. The decision is yours on how you want to enjoy your days at sea.

Day 14-15: South Sandwich Islands

  • Ship
  • 2 Breakfasts, 2 Lunches, 2 Dinners
On Captain James Cook's second voyage of discovery (1772–1775), he circumnavigated the globe in high southern latitudes, raising doubts about the existence of the Antarctic continent, still undiscovered at that time. During this expedition, Cook discovers the South Sandwich Islands and lands on South Georgia Island, deeming them "Lands doomed by Nature to perpetual frigidness," where they never feel the warmth of the sun's rays, exhibiting horrible and savage aspects he finds indescribable.

He names the South Sandwich Islands after Lord Sandwich, considering them, along with South Georgia, a UK Dependent Territory, currently uninhabited. While Cook observed some islands, several remained undiscovered until Bellingshausen's visit in 1819.

Situated around 740 km southeast of South Georgia, the islands form a 350 km long chain, comprising 11 large and several smaller islands, totaling about 600 sq. km. Most are ice-capped, with the tallest peak, on Montagu Island, reaching 1,370 m. The climate is cold, marked by frequent snowfall and strong winds.
The islands, volcanic in origin, have active ones among them. Zavodovski Island, for instance, is in constant eruption and reeks of rotten eggs (its volcano is named Mt. Asphyxia), while Visokoi, Candlemas, Saunders, and Bellingshausen exhibit definite signs of activity. Bristol, Cook, and Thule islands are heavily glaciated, showing no signs of warmth or activity. All islands have steep sides above water, rapidly descending into water more than 1,500 m deep.

In this untamed environment, nature dictates our activities and observations. If conditions permit, we aim to explore the dramatic coastlines of some islands aboard the ship or by Zodiac. Limited biological and geological work, primarily in the 1960s by the British Antarctic Survey, provides scant knowledge about these islands. Vegetation is sparse, but Zavodovski Island hosts an extraordinary wildlife spectacle: a chinstrap penguin colony numbering around one million on its steep volcanic slopes. Those who witness this massive penguin colony are left in awe.

Day 16-17: At Sea

  • 2 Breakfasts, 2 Lunches, 2 Dinners
Gather for drinks to reflect on the adventures of the last few days in the South Sandwich Islands. Listen to tales of exploration and discovery from our team of onboard experts as we get ready for the upcoming exciting days in the Antarctic Peninsula.

Day 18-21: Antarctic Peninsula

  • Ship
  • 4 Breakfasts, 4 Lunches, 4 Dinners
Arriving in Antarctica is a unique experience. Spotting your first iceberg and breathing the crisp air is a memory that sticks with you. Due to our southern location, expect about 18-24 hours of daylight, allowing your days to be as busy or relaxed as you prefer.

Participate in Zodiac cruises along ice cliffs or among grounded icebergs, watching for whales, seals, and porpoising penguins. Onshore, our goal is to stretch our legs, walking along pebbly beaches or hiking up snow-covered ridgelines for views of mountains and ice-speckled oceans. Be aware of penguin colonies—they have the right of way here!

For the daring, take a dip in polar waters, conditions permitting!

We'll also cruise through narrow straits separating islands from the mainland or linger in bays to see whales traveling or feeding. Enjoy views of Antarctica from observation lounges with a warm beverage. Listen for the creak and rumble of glaciers carving their way from summit to sea. Take a quiet moment to appreciate the wonder of the White Continent.

Day 22-23: Drake Passage Crossing

  • Ship
  • 2 Breakfasts, 2 Lunches, 2 Dinners
Enjoy the final morning landing in the South Shetland Islands before you enter the Drake Passage for your return journey to South America.

Engage in lectures and film presentations to enrich your Antarctic experience. There is still ample time to savor the magic of the Southern Ocean and the vibrant life that inhabits it. Take a moment for reflection and discussion about what you are witnessing and experiencing. We encourage you to become ambassadors for Antarctica, sharing your journey with family, friends, and colleagues, and advocating for its conservation and preservation. Your efforts may inspire them to visit the region one day and encounter the wonders you've been fortunate to witness.

As we approach the tip of South America, our Captain might navigate close to the legendary Cape Horn, contingent on weather and time considerations.

Day 24: Ushuaia | Disembark

  • 1 Breakfast
During the early morning, you sail along the Beagle Channel, before quietly slipping into dock in Ushuaia, where you begin disembarking at around 8.00 am. Farewell your expedition team and fellow travellers as you all continue our onward journeys, hopefully with a newfound sense of the immense power of nature. A transfer to either downtown Ushuaia or to the airport is included in the cost of the voyage

Ship/Hotel

Sylvia Earle

Sylvia Earle
Sylvia Earle Observation Deck
Sylvia Earle Library

Ushuaia - Hotels

Dates & Prices

My Preferred Start Date

Per person starting at
$28,895
Greg Mortimer-Aurora Stateroom Triple
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Aurora Stateroom Triple
22.67m2 (244ft2) - There are two Aurora Stateroom Triple cabins featuring portholes, all with private en-suites. Located on Deck 3, they're close to the mudroom and loading platforms.
Sylvia Earle Aurora Stateroom Superior
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Aurora Stateroom Superior
19.9m2 - 20.8m2(214.2ft2 - 223.9ft2) - Located on Deck 7, the Staterooms feature french balconies, floor to ceiling windows, en-suite bathrooms and a comfortable desk area. Perfect for polar adventurers who travel with plenty of gear.
Sylvia Earle Balcony Stateroom C
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Balcony Stateroom C
19.5m2 - 28.7m2 (209.9ft² - 308.9ft2) - 11 Balcony Stateroom C cabins - most economical, fitted with all the necessities and comfortable for up to 2 people. These cabins are scattered throughout Deck 6.
Sylvia Earle Balcony Stateroom B
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Balcony Stateroom B
19.5m2 - 28.7m2 (209.9ft² - 308.9ft2) - 17 Balcony Stateroom B Cabins - standard cabin, many fitted with interconnecting features making them great for families or groups. These cabins are located at the fore and aft of Deck 4 and 6.
Greg Mortimer
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Balcony Stateroom A
19.5m² - 28.7m² (209.9ft² - 308.9ft²)- 23 Balcony Stateroom A cabins - premium cabin, and the most abundant on board. These cabins are located in preferred positions on Deck 4 and 6 which provides easy access between Decks via the internal stairs or elevator.
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Balcony Stateroom Superior
29.2m2 - 35.2m2 (314.3ft2 - 378.9ft2) - Located on Deck 4 and 6, the Staterooms feature floor to ceiling windows, en-suite bathrooms and a comfortable desk area. Some of these rooms are equipped with wheelchair accessible bathrooms.
Sylvia Earle Junior Suite
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Junior Suite
Up to 41.6m2 (447.8ft2)- 4 Junior Suites take in some impressive scenery from their vantage points on Deck 7. When you aren't enjoying a landing, you can relax in the suites' separate lounge area, or just watch the world float by from the private balcony.
Greg Mortimer-Captain's Suite
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Captain’s Suite
43.8m2 (471.5 ft2) - Captain's Suite - the largest of all our rooms, will take you to the polar regions in ultimate style and comfort. Complete with large lounge area, balcony, walk-in wardrobe and en-suite, you'll need to get in early to secure this suite.
Included
  • 23 Breakfasts, 21 Lunches, 22 Dinners
  • 23 Nights Accommodations
  • Accommodations as listed
  • Ground transportation as listed
  • Activities as listed
  • Meals as listed
  • Access to a 24-7 Emergency line while traveling
  • Comprehensive pre-departure information
  • Beer, House Wine, and Soft Drinks with Dinner 
  • Educational Lectures and Guiding Services from Expedition Team 
  • Complimentary access to onboard expedition doctor and medical clinic (initial consult)
  • Port Surcharges, Permits, and Landing Fees
  • Captain's Welcome and Farewell drinks including four-course dinner, house cocktails, house beer and wine, non-alcoholic beverages.
  • A 3-in-1 waterproof polar expedition jacket
  • Complimentary use of Muck boots during the voyage
  • All shore excursions and Zodiac cruises
  • All airport transfers mentioned in the itinerary.
  • On-board accommodation during voyage including daily cabin service
  • One night’s hotel accommodation with breakfast in Ushuaia on day 1
  • Half-day excursion in Ushuaia on Day 2
Excluded
  • Gratuities
  • Travel Insurance
  • Personal Expenses
  • Flight costs (please request a quote)
  • Additional excursions during free time
  • Fuel and transportation surcharges (when applicable)
  • Passport and Applicable Visa Expenses
  • Airport Departure Tax - Airport arrival or departure taxes
  • Alcoholic beverages and soft drinks (outside of dinner service), laundry services, personal clothing, medical expenses, Wi-Fi, email or phone charges
  • Hotels and meals not included in itinerary
  • Optional activity surcharges
  • Reciprocity and Vaccination Charges
  • Passengers traveling with Aurora Expeditions are required to be covered by a reputable travel insurance policy that includes baggage loss, cancellation & curtailment of the holiday, medical, accident, and repatriation/emergency evacuation coverage worth at least $250,000 USD.
  • Add-on activities should be reserved at the time of the booking.

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