Explore the stunning landscapes of the Cape Verdes, Scotia Sea, and South Georgia on this epic 34-day cruise aboard the MS Seaventure. Begin in Ushuaia, Argentina, and venture across the Scotia Sea in search of wildlife, before discovering the incredible Falkland Islands (Malvinas) and visiting historic Port Stanley. Travel to South Georgia, and visit the King penguin colonies and the grave of famous explorer Ernest Shackleton. Explore Tristan da Cunha before visiting remote Nightingale Island. Visit Jamestown, St. Helena, and ascend Green Mountain on Ascension Island. Finally, disembark in Cape Verde, and explore the bustling markets, colonial architecture, and beautiful beaches of Praia.
Highlights
Spot rare bird species found only in the Falklands and the South Atlantic
Discover the delights of South Georgia's wildlife by foot and Zodiac rides
Sail to Tristan Da Cunha, the world's most remote inhabited archipelago
Involves minimal physical effort and is typically associated with leisurely activities. Activities are low-intensity or last less than a few hours each day.
Transfer to the Arakur Resort and Spa, surrounded by stunning panoramic views, native forests, natural terraces, and green areas. Enjoy the resort's facilities and then attend an evening briefing where you’ll have the opportunity to ask questions and meet some of your fellow travelers.
Spend your morning exploring Ushuaia or unwinding at the resort until your mid-afternoon transfer to the ship. The Expedition Team and ship staff will greet you on board, followed by a safety and orientation briefing and Captain’s welcome dinner.
Wildlife spotting opportunities as you sail across the Scotia Sea will include albatross, prions, and petrels that frequently follow the ship. The expedition team will be out on the deck looking for whales and dolphins that may also be seen in the area. During your crossing to the Falkland Islands, the onboard experts will begin their presentations with informative and entertaining talks on the wildlife, history, and geology of the Southern Ocean.
The Falkland Islands (Malvinas) are isolated, windswept, and a haven for wildlife, and will be your base for a few days of exploration. Your visit in March should coincide with the end of the breeding season for the many seabirds that make these islands their summer home including Gentoo, Magellanic, and Rockhopper penguins, as well as the Black-Browed albatross. Hopping in your inflatable Zodiacs, hope to see a flurry of activity associated with fledging seabirds and adults departing the islands before autumn closes in. You may also visit Port Stanley, the charming capital of the Falklands (Malvinas), and discover some of the historic sites from museums to battlefields.
As you cruise towards South Georgia, the richness of these waters will be evident in the marine mammal life – especially Fur seals on fishing forays. You have a good chance of spotting Humpback and Fin whales while the birds circling your stern will be outstanding, particularly the large albatross and numerous breeds of petrels.
Three glorious days of expedition cruising in and around South Georgia, a paradise island with snow-clad mountain peaks rising 9000 feet and hundreds of glaciers tumbling down towards the sea. Large colonies of King penguins make South Georgia one of the planet’s greatest wonders. During your visit (in the Austral Autumn) the fluffy brown King chicks hatched in the summer will crowd the shores like a huge kindergarten.
Hope to catch the Wandering albatross and migrating whales as the wildlife starts to prepare for the upcoming winter.
Witness incredible scenes of this unique animal paradise on walks, hikes, and Zodiac rides while the onboard team of biologists and geologists increase your knowledge of this unique natural experience. Meanwhile, in Grytviken, you will visit the old whaling station and pay your respects at the grave of ‘the boss’ – Ernest Shackleton.
Kick back and relax, keep a lookout for passing wildlife from the deck, or feed your mind and imagination at any of the Expedition Team's ongoing lectures or workshops. They’ll be discussing Antarctica’s incredible history and the future of Antarctic tourism, and the photography coach will be hosting workshops to help you take your photo skills to a new level. This is your time to indulge – or just daydream! – as you sail towards the most remote inhabited archipelago of islands in the world – Tristan Da Cunha.
First sighted in the early 16th century and settled in the early 1800s, Tristan da Cunha was frequented by naval ships, whalers, and sealers throughout the 19th century. Today it is home to some 250 hardy souls who make living from the sea.
With two days here, there will be plenty of time to visit the main settlement of Edinburgh of the Seven Seas where local guides will tell you about the island’s history and culture. Take an optional hike to a volcano where you learn about its eruption in 1961 and the impact that had on the local population. End at the Thatched House Museum featuring a home preserved from that time. Other walks will include the cliffs and the potato patches where you can hear about the islanders’ subsistence farming. Travelers also hope to visit Nightingale Island, one of the most unique wildlife strongholds in the world and home to thousands of seabirds.
This is a great time for wildlife and bird viewing, or attending one of the lecture series, where you can learn about your upcoming visit to the richly historic St Helena, Napoleon’s final place of exile. It might be a good time to hit the gym, too, if you plan to take on the 699 steps of Jacob’s Ladder, for an excellent view of Jamestown.
Discovered by the Portuguese in 1502, the island of St Helena has been both a Dutch and British possession. In the late 17th century, the island became a strategically important port of call in the British Empire and was controlled by the East India Company for over 200 years.
The island is probably best known as Napoleon’s last place of exile, where he died in 1821 after six years living at Longwood House, which you will visit.
Explore the tiny capital of Jamestown and see the courthouse, government buildings, and library. Those feeling active may want to climb the 699 steps of Jacob’s Ladder with views over Jamestown. During a range of walks for all levels, there will be time to explore the surrounding countryside, experience some amazing views, and witness the prolific birdlife, including the endemic St. Helena Wirebird.
Coffee lovers may want to try the rare ‘Green Tipped Bourbon Arabica’, grown on the island since 1732. Those interested in spirits might enjoy a visit to the most remote distillery in the world with the opportunity to taste the local gin, rum, and ‘Tungi’ made from local prickly pears.
Celebrate crossing the Equator with a special ceremony and swim in Seaventure’s saltwater pool, which will be filled especially for this occasion. The Lecture series continues in preparation for landing in Ascension.
Named after the day it was discovered, and first inhabited in 1815 by a British Garrison, today Ascension Island plays an important role in supplying British forces and scientists based in the South Atlantic.
The massive marine reserve, designed to protect the unique ecosystem, is home to huge Marlin, green turtles, and the endemic Frigate bird. Take the opportunity to climb Green Mountain, explore the small capital of Georgetown, and if time and conditions allow, circumnavigate the island.
Your time at sea is always a great opportunity to chill, revisit the photographs you’ve been taking, or share adventure stories with some of your newly-made friends. The lecture series is always ongoing, too. Join them as you preview your next stop, the historic port and beautiful beaches of the Cape Verde Islands.
This morning you’ll be in port in Praia, the capital city of the Cape Verde Islands. Have a full day to explore Praia’s colonial architecture, bustling markets, and beautiful beaches, before returning to the Seaventure for a sumptuous final night feast.
Day 34: Disembarkation, Sal, Cape Verde
1 Breakfast
Disembark this morning and transfer to Amílcar Cabral International Airport, in Sal, Cape Verde. (Airport Code SID).
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.
$14,220
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Triple Stateroom
Averaging 188 sq. ft. Queen size bed or two twin-sized beds and a third berth and sitting area.
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Porthole Stateroom
Averaging 188 sq. ft. Queen size bed or two twin-sized beds, portholes and sitting area.
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Window Stateroom
Averaging 188 sq. ft. Queen size bed or two twin-sized beds, window and sitting area.
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Veranda Stateroom
Averaging 224 sq. ft. and a 39 sq. ft. balcony. Queen size bed or two twin-sized beds, private balcony and sitting area.
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Owner's Suite
Averaging 331 sq. ft. and a 58 sq. ft. balcony. Queen size bed or two twin-sized beds, private balcony and sitting area.
Notes
Single supplement - A limited number of twin suites may be sold for single occupancy at 1.7 times the twin rate.
Travel Insurance - All passengers are required to carry valid travel insurance which must contain medical and evacuation coverage of no less than $150,000 as well as cancellation and trip interruption.
Initial deposit is 20% of trip cost pp, 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. All final payments by credit card may be subject to a surcharge and maximum of $20,000 charge
For full cancellation policy details, please contact us for a quote.
Included
33 Breakfasts, 31 Lunches, 32 Dinners
33 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
Expedition Parka
500 MB WiFi for personal devices
Digital Voyage Log
Citizen Science program: participation in a variety of scientific activities that support important research projects
All scheduled landings and excursions
A pair of loaner boots for use during the voyage
All port and landing fees
One Pre-voyage Night at Arakur Resort & Spa Hotel in Ushuaia
Daily International News Service
Transfer from the airport in Ushuaia to Arakur Resort and Spa, providing you confirmed air itinerary at least 30 days prior to departure
Transfer from hotel to ship for embarkation
Group transfer from ship to Amílcar Cabral International Airport (SID) in Sal, Cape Verde.
Wine and beer with lunch and dinner
Excluded
Gratuities
Travel Insurance
Personal Expenses
Flight costs (please request a quote)
Additional excursions during free time
Fuel and transportation surcharges (when applicable)
Pre- or post-voyage expenses
All passengers that travel with Polar Latitudes, the operator of your ship, are required to carry valid travel insurance. This insurance must contain medical and evacuation coverage and should include cancellation and trip interruption as well. As any potential evacuation from Antarctica can cost up to $150,000 no policy should carry less than this amount of coverage.
Onboard communication charges such as outgoing phone calls or more than 500 MB WiFi from personal devices
Entry fees for local museums, attractions, etc other than the port and landing fees listed above
Map
When to Go
Jan
Feb
Mar
Apr
May
Jun
Jul
Aug
Sep
Oct
Nov
Dec
Good to ideal period to travel, and many people choose to visit at this time.
The trip was terrific with great planning on your part. Most of the adventures were not mainstream and somewhat off the beaten path which made it especially enjoyable!! We felt taken care of and you all were readily available to respond to questions and issues. I would highly recommend your company and friends have already expressed interest based on our pictures and excitement.
Gale Cantor
TrustScore 4.8 | 174 reviews
TrustScore 4.8 of 5
Based on 174 reviews on
1 day 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
2 days ago
Mary was so pleasant and professional. She made sure all of our questions were answered.
