Photo journey: Animal paradise of the sub-Antarctic 25% Advantage

This expedition cruise departs from Santiago, Chile, and is specifically designed as a photographic journey to the Falkland Islands and South Georgia. Upon arrival in Santiago, you will be transferred to your hotel for the first night. Depending on your arrival time, there may be an opportunity to briefly explore the city independently. The following day, a flight to the Falkland Islands takes you to Stanley, where you embark the MS Sea Spirit to begin the expedition. The journey initially explores the Falkland Islands, home to several penguin species, black-browed albatrosses, and the endemic Falkland steamer duck. The expedition then continues to South Georgia, an island with dramatic coastal landscapes and large wildlife colonies, including king penguins, elephant seals, fur seals, albatrosses, and petrels. Landings are organised flexibly according to weather and ice conditions. Onboard lectures and presentations provide insights into the wildlife, landscapes, and history of the region. On the return journey to Stanley and the flight back to Santiago, further wildlife observations may be possible.

Itinerary: Photographic Journey – Subantarctic Wildlife
Day 1: Arrival in Santiago, Chile
Upon arrival in Santiago, you will be transferred to your included hotel for your first night. Depending on your arrival time, there may be the chance to briefly explore the city independently, for example with a walk through the city centre or a visit to selected sights, before preparing for the expedition.

Day 2: Flight to the Falkland Islands and Embarkation
In the morning, you will be transferred to Santiago Airport for your flight to the Falkland Islands. On arrival in Stanley, you will be taken to the harbour for embarkation on the MS Sea Spirit. Onboard, you will receive a safety briefing and an introduction to the expedition programme, and have time to familiarise yourself with your cabin and the ship’s facilities.

Days 3–5: Falkland Islands
Initial landings on the Falkland Islands offer the chance to observe the rich birdlife, including several penguin species and black-browed albatrosses. You will explore coastal landscapes as well as the surroundings of Stanley. Short walks and photographic opportunities in nature can be taken depending on weather and ice conditions. These days combine wildlife observation, natural exploration, and the first photographic experiences in the subantarctic region.

Days 6–7: Transit to South Georgia
The journey continues with a multi-day transit to South Georgia. During this time, informative lectures cover the geography, wildlife, and history of the region. You may also observe seabirds, whales, and other marine mammals along the route, and capture initial photographs of the open sea and the approaching island landscapes.

Days 8–13: Landings on South Georgia
These days are spent exploring South Georgia in detail. You will visit coastal areas hosting large colonies of king penguins, elephant seals, fur seals, albatrosses, and petrels. Historical sites such as the former whaling station Grytviken and the South Georgia Museum provide insights into the island’s history. Landings and Zodiac excursions are organised flexibly according to local weather and ice conditions, offering numerous opportunities to photograph wildlife in their natural habitat and the dramatic landscapes.

Days 14–15: Return towards the Falkland Islands / Drake Passage
The return journey allows for further observation of seabirds, whales, and other marine mammals. Onboard lectures and presentations deepen understanding of the wildlife and landscapes of the southern oceans, while also providing time to review photographic material and prepare for the final landings.

Day 16: Falkland Islands
On the way back to the Falkland Islands, a final landing provides additional opportunities to observe and photograph penguins, seabirds, and coastal landscapes, depending on current weather conditions.

Days 17–18: Return to Stanley / Flight to Santiago
The final days at sea allow for further wildlife observations and onboard presentations summarising the expedition, highlighting the key wildlife and landscapes of the Falklands and South Georgia.

Day 19: Disembarkation and Return Flight to Santiago
After disembarking in Stanley, you will be transferred to the airport for your return flight to Santiago, Chile, marking the end of the expedition.

Photography on the Expedition:
The combination of remote islands, coastal landscapes, and abundant wildlife makes this voyage especially rewarding for photography. The unique landscapes and rich wildlife offer a wide range of subjects for photographers of all skill levels. A complimentary photography programme onboard allows you to develop your skills alongside an experienced photographer. Unique photographic opportunities are frequent: an albatross landing beside its chick, or two bull elephant seals battling against a backdrop of green hills and snow-capped mountains, create striking scenes combining wildlife and landscape photography. The onboard photographer is supported by World Photo Travels Guides, including Mike Reyfman, Dimitry Arkhipov, Marco Grassi, Svein Wik, and Jens Wikström. Their guidance ensures travellers can make the most of the abundant photographic opportunities across the Falkland Islands and South Georgia.
Notes: Landings and Zodiac excursions are planned according to weather and ice conditions, with no guarantees for specific sites or wildlife sightings. Wildlife sightings and activities such as hiking depend entirely on the actual conditions at each location and cannot be guaranteed.
Spaces are limited and demand is high, so it is recommended to enquire now to secure your personal Antarctic experience. Our team is happy to provide advice or assist with planning your journey.
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