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Sightseeing on South Georgia

Epic Antarctica: Crossing the Circle via Falklands & South Georgia

Example 23 Day Cruise aboard Ultramarine
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This epic Antarctica voyage aboard the Ultramarine includes all of the major Antarctic highlights you can imagine. From the Falkland Islands (Islas Malvinas) to South Georgia to the Antarctic Peninsula, you will have countless unforgettable moments on this adventure-packed, 23-day voyage. Start with the Falklands, reminiscent of both sandy Cape Cod and the English moors, home to albatross, dolphins, and five species of penguins. From there, venture to South Georgia where you’ll enter the home of 300,000 breeding king penguins, 50 million other seabirds and 5 million seals. Then, explore the stunning Antarctic Peninsula, and finally cross the Antarctic Circle—a significant milestone for any world traveler.
Hiking in Antarctica is rewarded with spectacular viewsRockhopper penguin sightingThe pristine and remote landscape of the Falkland IslandsA colony of king penguins on South GeorgiaWhale watching in AntarcticaExploring AntarcticaSightseeing on South Georgia
Highlights
  • Explore the Antarctic Peninsula by Zodiac, kayak and on foot
  • Visit penguin rookeries with thousands of pairs of king penguins on South Georgia
  • Follow in the footsteps of the great explorer Sir Ernest Shackleton
  • Cross the Antarctic Circle, part of the world visited by very few people
  • Enjoy Flightseeing tours in twin-engine helicopters
Activity Level: Variable
Activity options vary depending on destination and operator. Activity level is determined by the range and intensity of activities you choose to participate in. Discuss with your Trip Planner which options are best for you.
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Full Itinerary

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Day 1: Arrive in Buenos Aires, Argentina

Arrive in Buenos Aires at any time during Day 1 of your itinerary. Upon arriving in this splendid city, known for its architecture and rich European heritage, transfer independently to your group hotel (pre-expedition hotel night included in mandatory transfer package). 

Day 2: Embarkation Day in Ushuaia

After an early breakfast at the hotel, the group will transfer to the airport and board our private charter flight to Ushuaia, Argentina. Upon arrival, transfer from the airport to a central downtown location to have some time on your own to explore this quaint port town before making your way to the pier.

After a late afternoon embarkation, sail along the historic Beagle Channel, which transects the Tierra del Fuego archipelago in the extreme south of South America. Expect an air of anticipation as you depart—the next time you see land, you’ll be in a wildlife wonderland! 

Day 3: At Sea

Your days at sea are filled with presentations and lectures led by your Expedition Team, prepares you for the wildlife that will greet you upon your arrival. In between presentations, spend time chatting with your shipmates over a drink at the bar, or enjoy the fresh air and views on the outer decks. 

Day 4-5: Falkland Islands (Islas Malvinas)

Upon your arrival in the Falklands (Malvinas), your camera gets its first real workout capturing the abundant wildlife and rugged feel of this sub-Antarctic region. Explore the archipelago's two main islands, East Falkland and West Falkland, during daily Zodiac excursions and landings. Stanley, also known as Port Stanley, is often a favored landing site, as the town offers a unique British outpost feel, complete with eclectic charm. You are free to explore, grab a pint at the local pub, or visit the numerous churches and museums. 

The Archipelago is rich in wildlife, especially birds, and home to Magellanic, gentoo and southern rockhopper penguins. If you’re lucky, you may even spot king penguins here as well! You can expect to see black-browed albatross, plus two endemic bird species—the flightless Falkland steamer duck, and possibly, the elusive Cobb’s wren. Your team of lecturers and specialists educate you on the local flora and fauna, helping you make the most of your time in the Falklands. 

Day 6-7: At Sea

Sailing southeast to South Georgia, officially enter Antarctic waters once you cross the Antarctic Convergence, an invisible biological boundary encircling the continent. This meeting of oceans, where the cold Antarctic waters mix with the warmer waters of the Indian, Pacific and Atlantic Oceans, helps nourish the abundance of krill that attracts whales, seals, and birdlife to this part of the world. Your Expedition Team notifies you when you cross this invisible yet important line, and also helps you look out for the seabirds and marine life that frequent the area. 

Day 8-11: South Georgia

This remote, mountainous island was a popular stop for many historic Antarctic expeditions and was once a haven for hunting whales and seals. Today, island wildlife populations are rebounding, but you’ll still see remnants of old whaling stations and other abandoned outposts. Among the most significant and moving sites on South Georgia is the grave of the great explorer Sir Ernest Shackleton. You can visit his grave at the settlement of Grytviken, which is also home to an old whaling station, plus a museum, gift shop, church and small research station. 
 
Although South Georgia’s history is an important attraction to the island, it is the tremendous abundance of wildlife that you and your shipmates will surely find most captivating. Each landing you make on South Georgia, often referred to as the Galapagos of the Poles, opens your eyes to the wondrous lives of new, enthralling creatures.  One day you may see rookeries with hundreds of thousands of pairs of king penguins waddling on a beach, and the next, you may visit another beach blanketed with thousands of fur or elephant seals. The grasses, mountains and beaches of South Georgia all play an important role in the breeding and survival of different species on the island. Your Expedition Leaders help you understand and appreciate the delicate balance among these fragile and interwoven relationships. 

Day 12-13: At Sea

Say goodbye to the king penguins, as your next destination is Antarctica! Your days at sea are filled with presentations, lectures and workshops led by your Expedition Team, who prepares you for the wildlife that greets you upon your arrival.

Day 14-16: South Shetland Islands and Antarctic Peninsula

The experience is hard to put into words, but the most common reaction upon reaching the White Continent is a sense of reverence and awe. Discover that Antarctica is a land of extremes: at one moment be overcome with a feeling of complete silence and solitude; the next, laugh at the comical antics of a curious penguin. 

Zodiac cruising, visits to historical sites and, of course, communing with seals and penguins are sure to keep you smiling every day. Perhaps catch sight of the fearless penguin eater, the leopard seal, or maybe come eye to eye with an Antarctic minke whale while you cruise in a Zodiac. Each day, and each excursion, presents a new collection of creatures to delight you and keep your camera busy. 

If you find yourself wanting more, treat yourself to an optional kayaking adventure (reserve in advance when booking your trip), or cast reason aside and join in the Polar Plunge—it’s something you’ll never forget! 

Day 17-18: The Antarctic Circle

Crossing the Antarctic Circle is both a memorable experience and impressive achievement, as few travelers reach so far south. If conditions allow you to cross this famed line at 66°33´ S, toast the first explorers who ventured here, and you can raise a glass and take pride in knowing you’ve made it to a part of the world visited by very few people.

This is raw Antarctica, home of the midnight sun, Weddell seals, and your best chances of encountering sea ice – the foundation of the Antarctic marine ecosystem. 

Day 19-20: Northbound Along the Peninsula

If you haven’t had your fill of Antarctic wildlife and icebergs by now, be surely satisfied by the time you return to the Drake Passage. Continue to make excursions by Zodiac as you travel north along the western Antarctic Peninsula. 

Your Expedition Team is always on the lookout for species of seabirds, seals and whales that may have eluded you on your journey south. 

Day 21-22: Crossing the Drake Passage

After more than three weeks of unique wildlife encounters and remarkable landscapes, your journey home begins. The unpredictable and exciting Drake Passage is an adventure unto itself. While being well taken care of by the expert onboard staff, have plenty of time to gaze out at the ocean, take pictures of seabirds swooping around the ship, and reflect on your remarkable Antarctic adventure. 

Day 23: Disembark in Ushuaia and Fly to Buenos Aires, Argentina

  • 1 Breakfast
Arrive in Ushuaia in the morning and disembark after breakfast. The mandatory transfer package includes a little taste of Patagonia with a Tierra del Fuego National Park tour before transferring to the airport for the return group charter flight to Buenos Aires.

Ship/Hotel

Ultramarine

Ultramarine
Ultramarine Dining Room
Bistro 487

Buenos Aires - Hotels

Dates & Prices

My Preferred Start Date

Per person starting at
$38,495 2-3 travelers
Rates are dynamic and fluctuate based on capacity. Contact us for a specific quote.
Ultramarine - Solo Panorama Cabin
Solo Panorama
Located on Deck 6, approximately 132 sq. ft. Features a single bed, floor-to-ceiling window, desk, refrigerator, TV, a private bathroom with shower and heated floors.
Ultramarine - Explorer Triple Cabin
Explorer Triple
Located on Deck 3, approximately 285 sq. ft. Features three single beds (two of which can be combined into a double bed), sitting area, picture window, desk, refrigerator, TV, private bathroom with shower and heated floors.
Ultramarine - Explorer Suite Cabin
Explorer Suite
Located on Deck 3, approximately 285 sq. ft. Features one double or two single beds, sitting area with sofa bed, picture window, desk, refrigerator, TV, private bathroom with shower and heated floors.
Ultramarine - Balcony Suite Cabin
Balcony Suite
Located on Decks 4 and 6, with approximately 226 sq. ft. Features one double or two single beds, sitting area with sofa bed, private balcony, desk, refrigerator, TV, private bathroom with shower and heated floors.
Ultramarine - Deluxe Balcony Suite Cabin
Deluxe Balcony Suite
Located on Decks 4 and 6, with approximately 299 sq. ft. Features one double or two single beds, sitting area with sofa bed, private balcony, desk, refrigerator, TV, private bathroom with shower, bathtub and heated floors.
Ultramarine - Terrace Cabin
Terrace Suite
Located on Deck 6, with approximately 350 sq. ft. Features one double or two single beds, sitting area with sofa bed, private extra-wide balcony, desk, refrigerator, TV, private bathroom with shower, bathtub and heated floors.
Ultramarine - Penthouse Suite Cabin
Penthouse Suite
Located on Deck 7, with approximately 369 sq. ft. Features one double or two single beds, sitting area with sofa bed, private balcony, desk, refrigerator, TV, private bathroom with shower, bathtub and heated floors.
Ultramarine - Owner's Suite Cabin
Owner's Suite
Located on Deck 6, with approximately 446 sq. ft. Features one double or two single beds in a private bedroom with walk-in closet, sitting area with sofa bed and additional closet, private balcony, desk, refrigerator, TV, private bathroom with shower, bathtub and heated floors and separate powder room.
Ultramarine - Ultra Suite Cabin
Ultra Suite
Located on Deck 6, with approximately 563 sq. ft. Features one double or two single beds in a private bedroom with walk-in closet, sitting area with sofa bed and additional walk-in hallway closet, private balcony, refrigerator, TV, private bathroom.

Notes

- Rates are quoted in U.S. dollars and represent costs per person, double occupancy. Request the Twin Share Program where you are matched with a cabin mate of the same gender. Even if a cabin mate is not found for you, no single supplement will be charged.

- Standard Cabins are available for single occupancy at 1.7 times the double occupancy rate. The supplement for a Premium Cabin is 2 times the shared rate.
Included
  • 22 Breakfasts, 20 Lunches, 21 Dinners
  • 21 Nights Accommodations
  • Accommodations as listed
  • Ground transportation as listed
  • Activities as listed
  • Meals as listed
  • Access to a 24-7 Emergency line while traveling
  • Coffee, Tea and Cocoa Available Around the Clock
  • Leadership throughout the expedition by our experienced Expedition Leader
  • Loan of Waterproof Boots for Landings
  • Official Expedition Parka to Keep
  • Select Beer and Wine During Dinner
  • Photographic Journal Documenting the Expedition
  • All Miscellaneous Service Taxes and Port Charges Throughout the Program
  • All Zodiac transfers and cruising per the daily program
  • Emergency Evacuation insurance for all passengers to a maximum benefit of USD $500,000 per person
  • All shore landings as per the daily program
  • Shipboard accommodation with daily housekeeping
  • All meals, snacks, soft drinks and juices on board throughout your voyage
  • All luggage handling aboard the ship
  • One 10- to 15-Minute Helicopter Flightseeing Excursion (weather and logistics permitting)
  • Free beer, standard wines, spirits, and cocktails during bar service hours and dinner
  • Complimentary Wi-Fi service on one device permitting basic Internet browsing, email, posting on social media and voice applications. (Premium packages are available for more data intensive applications.)
Excluded
  • Gratuities
  • Travel Insurance
  • Personal Expenses
  • Flight costs (please request a quote)
  • Additional excursions during free time
  • Fuel and transportation surcharges (when applicable)
  • Buenos Aires Hotel tax (up to $2 per person/night) - paid at checkout
  • Passport and Applicable Visa Expenses
  • Government arrival and departure taxes
  • Internet & Phone Charges
  • Excess baggage charges
  • Mandatory Waterproof Pants for Zodiac Cruising & Any Other Gear Not Specifically Mentioned
  • Arrival and departure transfers, except where explicitly stated
  • Adventure Options not listed in Included Activities
  • Mandatory Transfer Package fees not included, prices vary by departure
  • Additional overnight accommodation

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This was my first experience with Adventure Life - and I couldn't have been more pleased with the trip. The guides and local staff in both Buenos Aires and Uruguay were terrific - extremely helpful and accommodating. I really enjoyed meeting the friendly staff in Buenos Aires in person (I left my bags with them for the afternoon).
Karen Snider

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