Embark on a 10-day expedition cruise from Ushuaia to Ushuaia aboard MV, exploring the wildlife-rich Falkland Islands. Navigate the Beagle Channel and sail into the South Atlantic to discover remote islands shaped by wind and sea. Walk among vast king penguin colonies at Volunteer Point, observe black-browed albatross on Steeple Jason and West Point, and photograph gentoo and rockhopper penguins on Saunders, Carcass, and Bleaker Islands. Visit Stanley to explore maritime history and local culture. Experience white-sand beaches, rugged cliffs, and sweeping coastal landscapes while traveling in comfort aboard Magellan Explorer on this immersive sub-Antarctic voyage.
Highlights
Encounter vast king penguin colonies at Volunteer Point
Explore historic Port Stanley and its maritime heritage
Walk white-sand beaches on wildlife-rich Saunders Island
Photograph black-browed albatross colonies on Steeple Jason Island
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.
Start your journey in Ushuaia, Argentina. Board your small ship and sail along the scenic Beagle Channel, charting a course toward the Falkland Islands.
Important note: Boarding in Ushuaia takes place exclusively between 15:00 hrs (3:00 PM) and 16:00 hrs (4:00 PM). At 16:00 hrs (4:00 PM), boarding closes. Please arrive on time. Keep your passport in hand and allow enough time to clear port security and reach the vessel.
Weather permitting, the morning might bring you to New Island, one of the Falklands’ most remote and visually striking locations, rich in wildlife. Towering cliffs and grassy slopes may host colonies of southern rockhopper penguins, imperial shags, and black-browed albatross. In the afternoon, you visit Carcass Island, a picturesque haven known for its rolling hills, sandy beaches, and sheltered bays. This wildlife-rich destination offers excellent opportunities to spot gentoo and Magellanic penguins, along with a variety of native bird species such as tussac birds and striated caracaras. Its tranquil setting and vibrant flora make it a favorite for photography and nature walks.
If weather and sea conditions permit, you might land on the remote and dramatic Steeple Jason Island, known for hosting the world’s largest colony of black-browed albatross. Rockhopper penguins and imperial shags also share the rugged cliffs. In the afternoon, you enjoy a long white-sand beach while you visit Saunders Island. A true wilderness experience, the main attractions begin with the majestic king penguins, often seen along the shoreline or mingling among other species. You’ll also encounter rockhopper penguins, nesting black-browed albatross, and sub-Antarctic gentoo penguins, creating an unforgettable wildlife spectacle.
In the morning, if weather conditions allow, you visit Volunteer Point, a remote and spectacular location that hosts the largest King penguin colony in the Falklands, with over 1,000 breeding pairs. Here, majestic Kings share the beach with gentoo and magellanic penguins, creating one of the most iconic wildlife experiences in the South Atlantic. In the afternoon, you journey continues with a call at Port Stanley, the capital of the Falklands. Join guided walking tours or wander independently to discover the town’s charming pubs, historic sites, maritime museum, and souvenir shops. A stroll along Ross Road offers views of poignant war memorials and everyday island life.
In the morning, you explore Bleaker Island, home to abundant coastal birdlife and colonies of gentoo, rockhopper, and magellanic penguins. The island’s flat terrain and wide beaches provide excellent conditions for photography and relaxed exploration. In the afternoon, weather allowing, you continue to Bull Point on East Falkland, where windswept dunes and wild coastlines host elephant seals, sea lions, and nesting seabirds.
Don’t miss the sunset as you transit the Falkland Sound, a magical moment on the journey.
Your morning includes a landing on Pebble Island, noted for its varied terrain and prolific birdlife. Later, on Keppel Island, you’ll discover traces of a historic mission of settlement and opportunities to spot upland geese, caracaras, and other native species along gentle trails.
In the morning, you visit West Point Island, a remote gem known for its dramatic coastal scenery and rich birdlife. An easy hike takes you to a spectacular colony of black-browed albatross and rockhopper penguins, perched on rugged cliffs overlooking the sea. This is one of the Falklands’ most iconic wildlife encounters, complemented by a warm welcome and a traditional Falklands tea experience in this charming and secluded setting. In the afternoon, you set sail northward, reflecting on the unforgettable wildlife encounters and scenic vistas.
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.
$6,4952-3 travelers
Triple Suite
480 ft2 – 44 m2
-Suite with two bedrooms, balcony, and sitting area
Porthole Cabin
Porthole Cabins 200 ft2 – 18 m²
-Cabin with sitting area and porthole
Veranda Cabin
210 ft2 – 19 m2
-Cabin with sitting area and balcony
Deluxe Veranda Cabin
240 ft2 – 22 m2
-Cabin with sitting area and balcony
Deluxe Suite
480 ft2 – 44 m2
-Two-room suite with sitting room, balcony, and bedroom
Penthouse Suite
360 ft2 – 33 m2
-Suite with sitting room, balcony, and bedroom area
Single Veranda Cabin
210 ft2 – 19 m2
- Cabin with sitting area and balcony
Notes
-Rates are quoted in U.S. dollars and represent costs per person, double occupancy. Cabin sharing, where solo travelers are matched with a cabin mate of the same gender is available in Porthole and Veranda Cabins.
-Cabins are available for single occupancy at 1.85x the double occupancy rate for Porthole and Veranda Cabins types. Deluxe Veranda, Penthouse Suite, and Grand Suite cabins are 2x the double occupancy rate.
Fly cruises: Children admitted from 8 years old
Classic Antarctica Air Cruise
Polar Circle
Antarctica Express
Sea voyages: Children admitted from 12 years old
Patagonia & Chilean Fjords
Falklands (Malvinas) & SG
Falklands (Malvinas), SG and Antarctica
Antarctic Small Ship Expedition
Optionals
Kayaking: Children admitted from 16 years old.
Hiking & snowshoeing: Children admitted from 12 years old.
Initial deposit is $4000 plus the adventure activities must be paid in full at the time of booking., 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
9 Breakfasts, 8 Lunches, 9 Dinners
9 Nights Accommodations
Accommodations as listed
Ground transportation as listed
Activities as listed
Meals as listed
Access to a 24-7 Emergency line while traveling
Wine, beer, juice, and soft drinks served with lunch and dinner on board ship
Coffee, tea, chocolate, cappuccino, water and snacks on board ship throughout the expedition
IAATO passenger fee
Loan of Waterproof Boots for Landings
Comprehensive Pre- and Post-voyage Information Materials
Lectures and entertainment onboard.
Daily buffet breakfast and lunch on board the ship offering a wide choice of dishes.
Dinner served daily on board the ship offering a choice between one of three main courses.
All guided shore excursions.
Standard internet service is provided on a complimentary basis. Guests booked in Penthouse Suites on Magellan Explorer and
Grand Veranda Suites on Magellan Discoverer enjoy complimentary premium internet service
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
Beverages purchased at the bar
Parkas are not provided on your cruise. Please bring your own windproof, waterproof, insulated parka with you. You will want to make sure it is roomy enough to fit warm layers underneath. Click here for information about parka rentals for Antarctica voyages.
All participants in an Antarctica 21 expedition are required to have a travel insurance policy. A comprehensive policy is recommended but, at a minimum, Medical Evacuation coverage up to $100,000 USD is required.
Multi-entry visas for Chile, Argentina, the UK and/or other destinations included in your itinerary, passport expenses, and any arrival and/or departure tax, if applicable.
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.