Epic Antarctic Adventure: The Falkland Islands, South Georgia, and the Crossing of the Polar Circle 16% Advantage

This expedition begins in Buenos Aires, from where you take a charter flight to Ushuaia before setting course for the South Atlantic. The route passes the Falkland Islands (Islas Malvinas) and continues to South Georgia, before crossing the Antarctic Convergence and entering Antarctic waters. Subsequently, you will visit the South Shetland Islands and sections of the Antarctic Peninsula. If weather and ice conditions allow, the voyage may continue south of the Antarctic Circle. Along the way, regular Zodiac excursions and landings provide close-up views of coastal landscapes, glaciers, icebergs and the region’s wildlife. Depending on location and conditions, there are opportunities to observe various penguin species, seals, seabirds and, with some luck, whales. During the sea days, lectures and workshops offer factual insights into natural history, polar exploration, and the ecological relationships of these areas.
 

Itinerary: Epic Antarctica: The Falklands, South Georgia and Crossing the Circle

 
Day 1: Arrive in Buenos Aires, Argentina
Upon arrival, you make your own way to the group hotel; one pre-expedition overnight stay is included in the mandatory transfer package. Use the time to appreciate the city’s blend of historic and modern architecture and prepare for the journey ahead.

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Day 2: Flight to Ushuaia and Embarkation
After breakfast, transfer to the airport for a private charter flight to Ushuaia. Upon arrival, you are taken to the town centre for some free time before heading to the port. Embarkation begins in the evening. The ship then navigates through the Beagle Channel, which separates the islands of the Tierra del Fuego archipelago, en route to the Southern Ocean.
 
Day 3: At Sea
During the sea passage, the expedition team delivers lectures and presentations on photography, wildlife, glaciology and history. From the deck, you may spot seabirds and marine mammals while enjoying time at leisure aboard.
 
Day 4 & 5: Falkland Islands (Islas Malvinas)
The Falklands are known for their birdlife and open, windswept landscapes. Zodiac landings are made at selected sites. In Stanley (Port Stanley), you can explore the town at your own pace. Wildlife includes Magellanic penguins, Gentoo penguins and Southern Rockhopper penguins, with frequent sightings of black-browed albatrosses. Endemic species such as the flightless Falkland steamer duck and Cobb’s wren may also be encountered.
 
Day 6 & 7: At Sea
On the way to South Georgia, you cross the Antarctic Convergence, an oceanographic boundary where cold Antarctic waters meet warmer sub-Antarctic waters. The nutrient-rich environment supports krill, attracting whales, seals and numerous seabirds.
 
Day 8 to 11: South Georgia
The mountainous island played a significant role in the history of polar exploration and whaling. Today, abandoned stations remain as evidence. Grytviken is home to the grave of polar explorer Ernest Shackleton. South Georgia is famous for its large wildlife colonies, including king penguins, fur seals and elephant seals. Landings offer opportunities to observe these habitats at a safe distance and to learn about local ecological relationships.
 
Day 12 & 13: At Sea
Lectures and workshops continue during the voyage toward Antarctica, preparing passengers for upcoming landings and providing time for exchange with fellow travellers.
 
Day 14 to 16: South Shetland Islands and Antarctic Peninsula
In the waters of the South Shetland Islands and along the Antarctic Peninsula, Zodiac excursions and, where possible, landings are made. Protected bays and historic sites are visited, and wildlife such as penguins, seals and seabirds may be observed. With some luck, leopard seals or Antarctic minke whales may also appear. Optional activities such as kayaking or the Polar Plunge can be pre-booked.
 
Day 17 & 18: Antarctic Circle
If weather and ice conditions permit, the Antarctic Circle at 66°33′ S may be crossed. This region features extensive sea ice and is home to species including Weddell seals. Only a limited number of expeditions reach this latitude.
 
Day 19 & 20: Northbound Along the Peninsula
On the return north, further landings and Zodiac trips along the peninsula are planned. Wildlife observation continues before the ship heads back to open waters.
 
Day 21 & 22: Crossing the Drake Passage
The passage through the Drake Passage marks the final leg of the sea voyage. Passengers have time for observation, photography and reflection on the preceding weeks.
 
Day 23: Disembark in Ushuaia and Fly to Buenos Aires
Arriving in Ushuaia, one of the southernmost towns in the world, you disembark after breakfast. The transfer package includes a visit to the Tierra del Fuego National Park before heading to the airport for the group charter flight back to Buenos Aires.
 
 
Additional Information: The expedition fare includes a short flightseeing trip in small groups aboard one of the ship’s two twin-engine helicopters for approximately 10–15 minutes, providing aerial views of icebergs, glaciers and snow-covered peaks. This flight is weather- and operationally dependent and cannot be guaranteed on every departure. Optional activities, which may be booked at extra cost, include helicopter landings at remote sites, kayaking, paddleboarding or stand-up paddleboarding, all subject to conditions. On board, there are lounges, observation decks, a library, wellness and fitness facilities. The programme also features guided land walks, Zodiac excursions and lectures to provide factual insights into the region’s natural history, geology, polar exploration and wildlife. Transfers and the pre-expedition charter flight and hotel package are included.
 
Places are limited and demand is high, so we recommend that you enquire now without obligation and secure your personal Antarctic experience! We will be happy to answer any questions you may have or assist you in planning your trip.
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