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King penguins on South Georgia

South Georgia and the Falklands

Example 17 Day Cruise aboard National Geographic Endurance
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Steeped in Shackleton's history and whaling lore, covered mostly in glaciers, South Georgia explodes with life: king, gentoo, and macaroni penguins, enormous elephant seals, and a thriving fur seal population. On South Georgia you can observe one of the world’s great wildlife spectacles: tens of thousands of stately king penguins on a single beach. The Falkland Islands are equally impressive, with colonies of nesting albatross and rockhopper penguins. This British Territory also adds a human element, with remote settlements and people living off the land.
The pristine and remote landscape of the Falkland IslandsAbandoned whaling village of Stromness, South GeorgiaObserve beautiful fur sealsA colony of king penguins on South GeorgiaWhale bones at the Grytviken whaling stationAn old ship rusts in a Falkland Islands harborRockhopper penguinsKing penguins on South Georgia
Highlights
  • Visit a vast king penguin colony in South Georgia
  • Observe magnificent seabirds such as albatrosses and skuas
  • Learn the history of explorer Sir Ernest Shackleton
  • Paddle or zodiac cruise past icebergs and curious seals
Activities
Places Visited
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: Buenos Aires, Argentina

Arrive this morning in cosmopolitan Buenos Aires, set on the Rio de la Plata, and check in to the fine Alvear Art Hotel (or similar). In the afternoon, enjoy a guided overview of the city, seeing its Beaux Arts palaces, grand boulevards, and the famous balcony forever associated with Eva Peron. In the early evening gather for an informal reception and a drink at the hotel.

Day 2: Fly to Ushuaia, Argentina | Embark

This morning's charter flight brings you over Patagonia before landing in Ushuaia, the southernmost city in the world. If the weather is fine, have a chance to view the spectacular mountains rising out of the Beagle Channel as you enjoy lunch on a catamaran cruise. Then, embark the expedition ship and set sail.

Day 3: At Sea

Settle into shipboard life, listening to informal discussions from our naturalist staff to prepare us for the wildness ahead in the Falklands. Spend time on deck and on the bridge, scanning for seabirds, notably the albatross.

Day 4-5: Falkland Islands

Each Falkland Island is a variation on the theme of topographical beauty with white-sand beaches, vaulting cliffs, windswept moors and the sunlit yellows and sage greens of waving tussock grass. While the Falklands boasts a human population (3,000 people in total; 2,500 of whom live in the capital, Stanley) the animals—specifically thousands of irresistible gentoo, rockhopper and Magellanic penguins, as well as magnificent albatross with 11-foot wingspans and curious fur seals—vastly outnumber them and constitute a major draw for wildlife enthusiasts and photographers. Take your camera and binoculars to walk along beautiful white-sand beaches, meander through tussock grass or sit atop a cliff and ponder the views.

Day 6-7: At Sea

During your days at sea, learn about the fascinating history of Antarctic exploration, as well as the flora, fauna and geology of South Georgia. A lookout is kept to identify the seabirds that follow us: wandering albatross, prions and black-browed albatross.

Day 8-13: South Georgia Island

Explore the spectacular coastline of South Georgia Island. In keeping with the nature of an expedition, your schedule is flexible with opportunities for walking, hiking, kayaking and Zodiac excursions. Leisurely circumnavigating the island, plan to make stops every day including visits to Grytviken, part of the extraordinary story of the Endurance and the final resting place of Sir Ernest Shackleton, as well as Stromness Bay where Shackleton, Tom Crean and Frank Worsley finally reached aid at a whaling station. See huge elephant seals, and, on a single beach, you will visit a vast colony of tens of thousands of king penguins! 

Day 14-16: At Sea | Falkland Islands

With whales beneath and birds above, head up to the bridge, or spend these days enjoying the ship’s spa, fitness center, library, and observation deck. After time at sea, your journey across the South Atlantic Ocean takes you once more to the island archipelago that teems with nature. Your afternoon visit to Port Stanley offers a chance to see the human face of the islands, to meet the hospitable locals, hoist a drink at a local pub, and stroll around this remote colonial town.

Day 17: Ushuaia | Disembark | Fly to Buenos Aires

  • 1 Breakfast, 1 Lunch
After breakfast, disembark in Ushuaia and transfer to the airport for our private charter flight to Santiago or Buenos Aires to connect with your overnight flight home.

Ship/Hotel

National Geographic Endurance

Navigating through icy waters aboard National Geographic Endurance

National Geographic Endurance

Embark on an exhilarating adventure aboard the National Geographic Endurance, a marvel of maritime engineering designed specifically for year-round expeditions into the heart of the Antarctic's icy embrace. With an impressive PC5 Category A ice class rating, the highest ever achieved by a cruise ship accommodating just 126 guests, this vessel promises unparalleled access to some of the planet's most remote and pristine environments. The ship's revolutionary sloping X-bow cuts through the choppiest of seas with remarkable grace, significantly reducing onboard movement and ensuring a smoother, more comfortable voyage. This innovative design not only enhances the journey but also boosts fuel efficiency and reduces emissions, underscoring a commitment to preserving the delicate ecosystems it explores. Experience the thrill of navigating through towering icebergs and witness the untouched splendor of the Antarctic, all while enjoying the intimate, luxurious setting of the National Geographic Endurance. This is more than a cruise -- it's a gateway to epic landscapes and an intimate encounter with the wild.
The National Geographic Endurance with a backdrop of rugged mountains.
National Geographic Endurance aerial view showing the hot tub on the deck.
Reception area

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.
Cyan Recoleta Hotel

Cyan Recoleta Hotel

The Cyan Recoleta Hotel is located in an upscale neighborhood in Buenos Aires. Enjoy the modern, functional feel during your stay in one of the 65 rooms. Experience the culture of the area by walking to one of the nearby restaurants, churches, museums, malls and landmarks.
Upgrade
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.
Congress building in Buenos Aires

More Buenos Aires Hotels

Dates & Prices

My Preferred Start Date

This itinerary is no longer available. For other trip ideas, please visit South Georgia Cruises & Tours.
Rates are subject to change without notice. Book early to get the best rate.
Category 1
Category 1
Located on the Fore Deck. 183 square ft room with two large windows, Alcove seating, Relax chair, private bathroom, tv, Wi-Fi and hair dryers
Category 2
Category 2
Located on the Fore Deck. 205 square ft. room with two large windows, Alcove seating, Relax chair, private bathroom, tv, Wi-Fi and hair dryers.
Category 3
Category 3
Located on the Main Deck. 205 square ft. suite with balcony, sofa, private bathroom, tv, Wi-Fi and hair dryers
Category 4
Category 4
Located on the Lounge Deck. 205 square ft. suite with balcony, sofa, private bathroom, tv, Wi-Fi and hair dryers
Category 5
Category 5
Located on the Bridge Deck. 205 square ft. suite with balcony, sofa, private bathroom, tv, Wi-Fi and hair dryers
Category 6
Category 6
Located on the Bridge Deck. 344 square ft suite with large balcony, sofa bed, private bathroom, tv, Wi-Fi and hair dryers
Category 7
Category 7
Located on the Bridge Deck. 430 square ft. suite with large balcony, sofa bed, bathtub, walk-in closet, private bathroom, tv, Wi-Fi and hair dryers
Category A Solo
Category A Solo
Located on the Main Deck. 140 square ft. suite with balcony, sofa, private bathroom, tv, Wi-Fi and hair dryers
Category B Solo
Category B Solo
Located on the Lounge Deck. 140 square ft. suite with balcony, sofa, private bathroom, tv, Wi-Fi and hair dryers

Notes

Rates are capacity-controlled and are subject to change without notice.
Included
  • 16 Breakfasts, 17 Lunches, 15 Dinners
  • 16 Nights Accommodations
  • Accommodations as listed
  • Ground transportation as listed
  • Activities as listed
  • Meals as listed
  • Access to a 24-7 Emergency line while traveling
  • Assistance by the onboard National Geographic Photography Expert
  • Access to the OM System Photo Gear Locker with the latest gear to try out on loan (aboard Lindblad Expeditions-National Geographic fleet) 
  • Beer, wine, cocktails, and spirits are available aboard the ship. Additionally, a selection of super premium wines and liquors is offered for purchase.
  • Crew gratuities
  • Complimentary Starlink-enabled Wi-Fi internet is available to all guests aboard Lindblad Expeditions-National Geographic fleet, enabling email, messaging, and social media.
  • Park and site entrance fees, special access permits, and port taxes
  • Excursions and airport transfers to and from flights arriving and departing within recommended window, as indicated in the itinerary
  • Exploration tools such as snorkeling equipment, wetsuits, kayaks, stand-up paddleboard, cross-country skis, and snowshoes (where applicable)
  • Guidance and company of leading expedition staff
  • All meals as indicated in the itinerary, both aboard and onshore.
  • Presentations by expedition staff and expert guest speakers
  • Onboard physician consultations (where available)
  • 24-hour access to exercise equipment (where applicable)
  • All accommodations aboard ship or in hotels per itinerary
  • Complimentary reusable water bottle
  • 24-hour access to lounges, observation decks, library, and other shared spaces
  • One hotel night
Excluded
  • Travel Insurance
  • Personal Expenses
  • Additional excursions during free time
  • Fuel and transportation surcharges (when applicable)
  • Buenos Aires Hotel tax (up to $2 per person/night) - paid at checkout
  • Laundry, spa treatments, scuba diving, and phone services (except when indicated as included)
  • We strongly recommend our guests to take Travel Protection Plan. A Plan with comprehensive coverage to protect you from cancellation fees, costs incurred due to trip delays/interruption, damaged or lost baggage, medical assistance, and evacuation during your travels
  • Airfare (except flights when indicated as included); charter airfare (where applicable, except when indicated as included); pre- and post-expedition extensions (except flights when indicated as included); additional hotel nights (except when indicated as included)
  • Travel protection plans and passport, visa, and immigration fees 
  • Enhanced and premium Wi-Fi plans
  • Additional costs associated with medical services outside onboard physician consultation (where available)
  • Private transfers (except when indicated as included)

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The trip might have been the absolute best of our lifetime (thus far). We particularly want to commend our guide Peter in the Guilin area-he was so incredibly attentive, energetic, enthusiastic-and absolutely dedicated to ensuring that our meals were 100% vegetarian.
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