This 20-day cruise itinerary for the Falklands (Malvinas), South Georgia & Antarctica offers a swift route to explore the seldom-visited Falkland Islands and South Georgia before reaching the 7th Continent. Roam through the English village of Stanley in the Falklands, walk across sandy dunes, and observe seabirds at the rugged cliffs. In South Georgia, encounter the beaches where king penguins breed in one of the highest concentrations of animal life on the planet, and delve into the rich historical heritage of the locations you visit. Both islands are renowned wildlife havens, witnessing impressive gatherings of animals. Venture into the Antarctic Peninsula's world of ice, snow, and natural marvels. Tailor your experience with a variety of fulfilling activities and engage in a comprehensive educational program.
Highlights
Explore the East and West Falkland Islands by Zodiac & daily landings
Meet the archipelago's Magellanic, gentoo, and rockhopper penguins
Cross the Antarctic Convergence and watch for whales and seals
Kayak or swim in the Antarctic waters surrounded by outstanding wildlife
Involves minimal physical effort and is typically associated with leisurely activities. Activities are low-intensity or last less than a few hours each day.
Your gateway for this expedition is Ushuaia, Argentina. Nestled within the Tierra del Fuego archipelago, Ushuaia offers a small-town feel but has many shops, museums, cafes, and restaurants to enjoy before your voyage. If feeling adventurous, the nearby Tierra del Fuego National Park and Martial Glacier offer plenty of hiking and outdoor activities.
As you embark, the anticipation and excitement grows. Trade your land legs for sea legs, meet and greet fellow travelers, and get acquainted with your ship. As every Antarctic adventure presents new opportunities and experiences, embarkation day is just as exciting for your Expedition Team as it is for you. They’re onboard to ensure your comfort and safety, as well as help make your wildlife dreams come true.
There are many activities to keep you engaged while you are at sea. Learn to identify seabirds that glide alongside the ship or attend illustrated presentations by your Expedition Team. Be prepped on procedures for your Zodiac cruises and shore landings and receive instructions for getting the most out of your optional kayaking adventures, a truly intimate way to experience Antarctica.
Upon arrival in this archipelago, your cameras get their first real workout capturing the abundant wildlife and the rugged feel of the Falklands (Malvinas). The archipelago contains two main islands - East and West, to explore by Zodiac excursions and daily landings.
Port Stanley is often a favored landing site, as the town offers a unique British outpost feel to it, complete with a bit of a ramshackle charm. Explore the town, grab a pint at the local pub, or visit numerous churches and museums.
In terms of wildlife, the archipelago is home to Magellanic, gentoo, and rockhopper penguins. If lucky, you may even spot king penguins here as well! Expect to see black-browed albatross and two endemic bird species: Cobb’s wren and the Falkland’s flightless steamer duck.
Your team of lecturers and specialists educate you on the local flora and fauna so that you get the most out of your time in the Falklands.
Sailing south, officially enter Antarctic waters by crossing the invisible biological boundary called the Antarctic Convergence. Encircling the continent, cold Antarctic waters meet and mix with the warmer waters of the Indian, Pacific, and Atlantic Oceans, creating the abundance of krill and marine life that attracts whales and seals to this part of the world. Expedition staff keep you posted when you cross this invisible, yet important line.
This remote outpost was a popular stop for many historic Antarctic expeditions and was once a haven for hunting whales and elephant and fur seals. Today, South Georgia Island wildlife populations have rebounded, but see remnants of those old whaling stations and other abandoned outposts.
One significant and historic site of interest is the grave of the great explorer, Sir Ernest Shackleton. Visit his grave at the settlement of Grytviken, which is also home to an old whaling station, a museum, gift shop, church, and a research station of approximately 20 scientists and support personnel.
While South Georgia’s history is an important attraction to the islands, it is the wildlife on South Georgia that you and your shipmates surely find most captivating. Often referred to as the Galapagos of the Poles, each landing you make on South Georgia opens your eyes to a new wonder of wildlife.
One day you may see rookeries with a hundred thousand pairs of king penguins waddling on the beach. The next day visit another beach with thousands of fur or elephant seals with (non-native) reindeer grazing in the background. The grasses, mountains, and beaches of South Georgia all play an important role in the breeding and survival of different species on the island - this fragile and symbiotic relationship is something that your expedition team shares with you during your time here.
Say goodbye to the king penguins, as your next destination is Antarctica! Your days at sea are filled with seminars from your Expedition Team, who prepare you for the wildlife greeting you upon your arrival. In between presentations, spend time chatting with your shipmates over a drink at the bar. If conditions allow, your team may attempt landfall on the South Orkney Islands, which are officially in Antarctica.
Day 14-17: South Shetland Islands | Antarctic Peninsula
The most common reaction to arriving at the white continent is a sense of reverence and awe. The experience is hard to put into words, as few places are as untouched, unique, and enduring as Antarctica. Discover that Antarctica is a land of extremes. At one moment be overcome with a feeling of complete desolation and silence, at the next moment be inspired by nature as a calving glacier crashes into the brilliant blue sea or a penguin comes waddling by to inspect your footwear.
Your Expedition Team takes care of you at each landing, whether it is trekking up a glacier, visiting a research station, or consorting with penguin colonies. Chinstrap, Adélie, and gentoo penguins are found here, along with Weddell, fur, crabeater, and leopard seals. Curious whales, such as minkes, are often attracted to Zodiacs as well, giving you a chance to get within reaching distance of these majestic animals. Each day and every landing presents a new collection of creatures to entertain you and keep your camera shutter busy.
As exciting as the Zodiac excursions and landings are, perhaps treat yourself to an extra special Antarctic experience by partaking in an optional (extra cost) kayaking excursion or going for a swim in the Antarctic!
After more than two weeks of endless wildlife encounters, your journey home begins. Crossing the Drake Passage is your unofficial rite of passage, completing your Antarctic adventure.
Enjoy some final moments mingling with your fellow travelers. The noisy, busy, populated world awaits your return, so savor the silence of the sea as long as you can.
Day 20: Ushuaia | Disembark
1 Breakfast
After breakfast aboard the ship, it is time to part ways and say goodbye to your Expedition Team. Be transferred to the airport for your homeward flight.
Apologies for the inconvenience. Prices for not yet published. Below per person rate based on previous season. Contact us to confirm upcoming season pricing.
Prices for are estimated based on inflation. Contact us to confirm pricing and availability for your desired departure date.
$25,4952-3 travelers
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Studio Double
The Studio Double, located on Deck 3 and classified as Standard, offers a peaceful atmosphere with a porthole window, all necessary amenities, and a double bed of twin berths. It can accommodate up to two occupants in its 175-186 sqft space.
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Studio Veranda Stateroom
The Studio Veranda Stateroom, located on Deck 6 and measuring approximately 173 sq. f. (16.1 sq.m.), is classified as Standard and features a floor-to-ceiling glass view that opens to a walkout balcony, one double bed that can be configured into two singles, a desk and chair, TV, state-of-the-art 'infotainment' system, and a private bathroom with shower, vanity and heated floor, making it ideal for 1-2 occupants.
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Deluxe Veranda Forward Stateroom
The Deluxe Veranda Forward Stateroom is a standard class on Deck 4, providing guests with privacy, elegance, and sweeping views from their private veranda. It is 168-195 sqft and has a bed configuration of one double bed made up of two twin berths, with a maximum occupancy of 2.
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Deluxe Veranda Middle Stateroom
The Deluxe Veranda Middle Stateroom, located on Deck 4 and classified as Standard, offers guests easy access to all ship amenities. It is 203-272 sqft and accommodates 1-2 guests on a double bed made up of two twin berths plus some with a fold-out sofa bed.
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Deluxe Veranda Stateroom
Experience the panoramic ocean views from the comfort of a Deluxe Veranda Stateroom on Deck 4. This room has a bed configuration of one double bed made up of two twin berths plus a fold-out sofa bed, a size ranging from 200-205 sqft, and a standard class.
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Studio Single
The Studio Single is a standard class located on Deck 3, with an occupancy of one person. It features a double bed made up of two twin berths, a porthole view, a desk and chair, a TV, a state-of-the-art 'infotainment' system, and a private bathroom with shower, vanity, and heated floor, all within approximately 177 sq. ft. (16.5 sq. m) of space.
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Grand Veranda Stateroom
This premium Grand Veranda Stateroom, located on Deck 6 and spanning over 195-205 sqft, is perfect for 1-2 occupants. It features a double bed made up of two twin berths plus a fold-out sofa bed, and it has easy access to the lounge, dining room, and private veranda.
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Royal Veranda Stateroom
The Royal Veranda Stateroom, located on Decks 4 and 6, is a spacious premium-class cabin that can accommodate up to two guests. It features one double bed made up of two twin berths and a fold-out sofa bed, and its size ranges from 189 to 272 sqft.
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Studio Veranda Single
The Studio Veranda Single is a premium cabin located on Deck 7, with an occupancy of 1 person, featuring a twin single bed, a private bathroom with shower, vanity, and heated floor, a state-of-the-art 'infotainment' system, and a floor-to-ceiling glass view that opens to a generous walkout balcony, covering an area of approximately 162 sq. ft. (15.1 sq. m.).
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Junior Suite
This Junior Suite, located on Deck 6, boasts an impressive decor and layout, a private veranda, and proximity to the lounge and downstairs dining room. It is 296-299 sqft and has a bed configuration of two rooms: one double bed made up of two twin berths and a fold-out sofa bed. It accommodates up to two guests and is classified as Premium.
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Explorer Suite
The Explorer Suite is a premium class accommodation located on Deck 7, featuring a unique 2-room layout with a double bed that can be configured into two singles in the inner bedroom, a fold-out sofa bed in the outer sitting area, walk-out access to a double-sized balcony from either room, 2 TVs, state-of-the-art 'infotainment' system, private bathroom with shower, vanity, and heated floor, as well as an additional powder room in the outside sitting area, and can accommodate up to 2 guests.
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Owners Suite
The Owners Suite, located on Deck 7, is a premium class, palatial apartment that features a large master bedroom, living room, dining area, two master bathrooms, and a private veranda with stunning views while accommodating 1-2 occupants with a bed configuration of two rooms, one double bed made up of two twin berths, and a fold-out sofa bed, all within a total size of 443 square feet.
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.
Insurance: Emergency medical evacuation coverage for a maximum benefit of US$500,000 per person is included. Travelers should have a minimum US$50,000 (or equivalent) of emergency medical coverage prior to embarkation. It is recommended that you and all members of your party have comprehensive travel insurance covering trip cancellation, trip delay (interruption or after departure coverage), baggage, and repatriation. Contact us for details.
Initial deposit is 25% of cruise fare (minimum $1000) plus the cost of kayaking (if applicable), and most travelers will call our office and pay the deposit with a credit card.
Final payment is due 130 days prior to departure by Bank transfer, check or credit card
For full cancellation policy details, please contact us for a quote.
Included
19 Breakfasts, 17 Lunches, 18 Dinners
19 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
Group arrival transfer in Ushuaia from airport to pre-expedition hotel on Day 1
Group transfer from hotel to ship on embarkation day
Group departure transfer upon disembarkation in Ushuaia from ship to local airport or to luggage storage facility
One night’s pre-expedition hotel accommodation in Ushuaia with breakfast. (Note: The number of guests per room is the same as cabin occupancy on the ship. Due to limited availability, travelers who reserve a suite on board are accommodated in standard rooms at the hotel. Triple rooms may not be available.)
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
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
Additional overnight accommodation
Basic complimentary Wi-Fi service does not include Premium packages, which enable more data-intensive applications
Kate was great to work with in the planning stage. She was prompt, helpful, and efficient. Our tour guide, Edwin, was knowledgeable and passionate. We were very happy to have traveled with Adventure Life, it made the trip easy and a true pleasure. We could concentrate on enjoying the experience rather than the details of travel.
Lisa Bridge
TrustScore 4.8 | 176 reviews
TrustScore 4.8 of 5
Based on 176 reviews on
9 hours ago
Adventure Life is always an excellent choice when planning complicated, extreme, or exotic vacations or expeditions. They provide friendly professional services and advice and are enthusiastic and encouraging in helping us to prepare and thoroughly enjoy our trip. They handle all the details which greatly reduces the stress of planning a difficult trip. I'm very impressed with Adventure Life and definitely recommend them to friends and family.
Scott Trochim
2 days ago
The response from Adventure Life to my first inquiry was prompt and promising. I worked with Jamie Broeckel, Trip Planner, via text, email, and phone calls- always extremely responsive and thorough with information and explaining the process to arrange a private tour for me to Malaysia Borneo. Within about week, the booking was complete and I made decisions because of Jamie's great customer service , friendly manner, and overall competence on behalf of the company's travel expertise. Now I have an itinerary, additional Trip Planner Assistants, several links for vital information for traveling to Maylasia, etc. Still many details for Sept. trip, but now the heavy lifting is done and I can enjoy the rest of the anticipation and research!! Thanks Jamie- you are amazing!!!!
Susan Campo
4 days ago
The trip was not only memorable for the amount of animals we saw but also for the people and accommodations at the two camps where we stayed. Our first guide, BK, was a wealth of information about the animals, landscape and down to the plants and what they were used for. Everyday out was a learning experience with him. All the people at the camps were gracious and the food was excellent.
Our second camp in the Okavanga was just as good as the first as far as the staff, accommodations, food and animals. After our experience at the first camp we amazed that the high quality remained the same. Our guide, G, made sure we were able to enjoy every experience including a rush through the bush to witness a cheetah and an ensuing hunt that he heard over his radio.
In both camps there were enough guides out that if they saw something the other guides were informed which helped in seeing as much as possible. It was also nice that the concessions were large enough that we did not have vehicles following each other throughout the day.
Normally there is always something in a trip of this length that we think could be improved upon but this is the rare case where we cannot think of anything. From the time we left the States to when we returned it was one of the most hassle free vacations we took.
Perhaps emphasizing the use of the laundry facilities at the camps would be useful because of the luggage restrictions would be the only thing I can think of as an improvement to future clients.
Kenneth Dropek
5 days ago
Mary was so pleasant and professional. She made sure all of our questions were answered.
