Falklands, South Georgia & Antarctic Islands

Company : G Adventures
Activities: Cruises / Tours
Location: Multiple Destinations
Duration: 3 weeks to 4 weeks
Approx Costs: 3000+ to 3000+ £ Pound (UK)

22 day marine expedition - meet hardy locals and seeing unique wildlife in the Falkland islands, explore abandoned whaling stations and visiting Shackleton’s grave, walk quietly amongst king penguins...

.... watching them surf into the beach, learn about the environment and ecology from industry experts, spot whales and seals while cruising through icebergs on Zodiacs, set foot on the continent of Antarctica

Itinerary

Day 1 Arrive Montevideo
Arrive at any time (arrival transfer included).

Day 2 Depart Montevideo
Embarkation on the MS Expedition begins in the afternoon at the port of Montevideo.

Day 3-5 At Sea
As you make the passage southeast, become acquainted with the ship. We also introduce our lecture and educational sessions about the extraordinary human and natural history of the Antarctic region begin.

Day 6-7 Falkland Islands
The Falkland Islands provide a rare opportunity to witness the biological diversity and extraordinary scenery of the southern islands. Penguins and albatross are abundant here, and the Falklands have the largest black-browed albatross colony in the world. In Stanley, meet the hardy local inhabitants whose colourful houses provide contrast to the long, dark winters.

Day 8-9 At Sea
Sailing east, you'll set course for South Georgia. Days at sea are filled with lectures to prepare us for landings. Keep your eyes peeled for the many whales that inhabit these waters.

Day 10-13 South Georgia
Home to many interesting sites (including the grave of polar explorer Ernest Shackleton), South Georgia has several former whaling stations and boasts plenty of wildlife. Visiting a huge colony of king penguins is a major highlight of this part of the journey. Weather permitting, we will have 3-4 days to explore this island.

Day 14-15 At Sea
Plotting as southwesterly course across the Scotia Sea, we sail for two days, retracing Shackleton's route backwards as we head towards Elephant Island and the Antarctic Peninsula.

Day 16-19 South Shetland Islands, Antarctica
Experience some of the most unique wildlife and awe-inspiring scenery in the South Shetland Islands, just north of the Antarctic Peninsula. Attempt two shore landings per day (weather permitting), and encounter gentoo, chinstrap, and Adélie penguin rookeries; Weddell, crabeater, and leopard seals; and orca, humpback, and minke whales in the cold Antarctic waters. The peninsula also has a remarkable human history; during the voyage we will learn about some of the most important and dramatic expeditions to this remote corner of the world.

Day 20-21 Drake Passage
Reflect on your memorable adventure and take in some final lectures as you head back to Ushuaia. Keep a careful look out for your last chance to spot whales.

Day 22 Depart Ushuaia
Disembark in the morning.