Expedition journey to Antarctica, South Georgia and the Falkland Islands

Not only the Antarctic Peninsula awaits you during this expedition with Albatros Expeditions, but also the dreamlike South Georgia and the beautiful Falkland Islands. Pure nature, countless bird species, and impressive landscapes promise an unforgettable sea journey. Relax on the comfortable ship and enjoy the breathtaking views to the fullest. Nature lovers and history enthusiasts alike will find this trip to be a perfect match. The price per person is based on accommodation in a double cabin for double occupancy.

Expedition to Antarctica, South Georgia, and the Falkland Islands: Itinerary

Day 1: Boarding in Ushuaia
You may arrive a few days earlier to explore Ushuaia in Argentina - the southernmost city in the world. The travel package starts with a transfer from the city to the ship. After boarding in the afternoon, a safety drill will be conducted. The adventure begins from Ushuaia towards the Beagle Channel. Keep an eye out for dolphins and whales and look forward to exciting days ahead.

Day 2: At Sea towards the Falkland Islands
Start your day with a hearty breakfast. Today, you will sail towards the Falkland Islands following the ocean currents of the South Atlantic. The waters around the Falkland Islands are among the richest in the world, with huge populations of whales, seals, and penguins feeding where the cold Antarctic waters meet the warmer waters of the South Atlantic - so be sure to have binoculars ready! The expedition team will provide you with insightful lectures about the fascinating history, biology, and unique culture of the "Kelpers" (as the locals call themselves) of these islands.

Days 3-4: Falkland Islands
Your exploration of the Falkland Islands begins on some of the outer islands in West Falkland. These islands are wilder and more remote than the mainland and host the majority of the islands' wildlife. Islands like West Point, Carcass, and Saunders are known for their impressive wildlife. Southern Rockhopper Penguins, Black-Browed Albatrosses, and Cormorants commonly nest together in vast colonies on the cliffs. The islands are home to a variety of other bird species, such as the cheeky Striated Caracara, and if you're lucky, you may see some new species in the water, such as Commerson's Dolphins and South American Sea Lions.
The next morning, the ship will anchor in the sheltered natural harbor of Port Stanley, allowing you to visit the center of this small city with the Zodiacs. The settlement welcomes you with modest buildings and upon closer inspection, you'll notice the very distinct British character of Stanley with its Victorian houses. Stanley is a great place to explore the local atmosphere. Highlights of the city include Christ Church Cathedral, excellent shops selling local products, cafes and pubs offering a warm welcome, and several excellent museums. Perhaps you'd also like to explore the stunning gold-white sand beaches. We're sure: the Falkland Islands will enchant you and captivate you with their unique charm.

All pictures of this partner

Day 5 - 6: At Sea en route to South Georgia

Start your eventful day with a hearty breakfast and look forward to some free time for yourself. From the Falkland Islands, we head eastwards towards South Georgia. The journey across may have its moments of storminess. Enjoy an extensive lecture program focusing on the fascinating history, biology, and wildlife of South Georgia. Keep an eye out on the outer deck: this section of the South Atlantic is one of the most biologically productive places on Earth and a haven for a variety of wildlife - from whales and albatrosses to penguins and seals. Boredom is not an option, and the anticipation of further adventures will accompany you.



Days 7 - 9: South Georgia
Rugged mountains, icy peaks, picturesque beaches, impressive glaciers, and deep fjords welcome you in South Georgia. At first glance, everything may seem gloomy, but stunning shades of green between the ice and plenty of activity on the beaches and in the sky above will captivate you. The beaches are teeming with hundreds of thousands of King Penguins - they must vie for space with numerous Antarctic fur seals, and the seals must avoid the southern elephant seals. Look out for tiny South Georgia Pipits and Pintail Ducks (once nearly extinct) that are now plentiful here. Petrels, albatrosses, and cormorants nest on the steep slopes and soar in the air above. In the sea, leopard seals lurk, fur seal pups play in the shallow waters, and various whale species can be found offshore. Nowhere else on Earth can such a variety of wildlife be observed - a special highlight of your expedition. Weather and sea conditions will dictate the itinerary. The experienced Expedition Team and Captain will do their best to maximize exploration opportunities. Options include visiting the vast penguin colonies of Salisbury Plain and St. Andrew's Bay, exploring the former whaling stations of Leith and Stromness, enjoying the landscape and seal colonies of Gold Harbour, or delving into the fascinating exploration heritage of this island at Grytviken (where the legendary explorer Sir Ernest Shackleton is buried). South Georgia has incredibly much to offer and discover. Not only the fascinating wildlife but also the history and impressive landscapes are unique.



Days 10 - 11: Crossing the Drake Passage
After your adventure in South Georgia, it is time to cross the Drake Passage, the body of water that separates Patagonia and the Antarctic Peninsula. The Drake Passage is known for challenging conditions and strong westerly winds but can also be as smooth as glass. On board, you can relax and prepare for the visit to Antarctica as the ship is equipped with stabilizers, powerful engines, and a highly qualified crew. You will not only receive a briefing on the plans but also valuable tips for wildlife watching. Listen to the lectures or keep an eye out for seabirds from the outer deck.

Day 12-15: Southern Shetland Islands and Antarctic Peninsula
You will first reach the Southern Shetland Islands, a chain of rugged rock marking the northernmost point of Antarctica. It is also one of the richest areas in terms of wildlife, with large colonies of chinstrap and gentoo penguins as well as a variety of large seabirds such as the predatory giant petrels. Landing sites that can be visited on the Southern Shetland Islands include the black steaming sands and rusted ruins of Deception Island (an active volcanic crater), the bustling penguin colonies on Aitcho and Half Moon Islands, or the old anchorage of seal hunters in Yankee Harbour.
The following days will be spent exploring further south on the Antarctic Peninsula in the Gerlache Strait region. As this region is typically icy, the exact route is carefully planned by the expedition leaders and the captain to visit a variety of interesting locations and see the best of this stunningly beautiful region. The Gerlache Strait consists of a large number of glacier-covered and mountainous islands. Marvel at the massive icebergs and huge glaciers on a Zodiac ride in Paradise Bay. Witness penguins lovingly caring for their precious eggs and fiercely defending their nests on Cuverville Island. Watch ice masses plunge into the clear blue ocean as you hike over the active glaciers of Neko Harbour. Experience the Antarctic ambiance in historic huts like Damoy Point, lovingly restored and open to all. Feel the spray mist of a humpback whale on a Zodiac safari in Wilhelmina Bay. Marvel at stunning landscapes on a boat trip through the Lemaire Channel. Wherever you go on the Antarctic Peninsula, there is abundant native wildlife, fascinating history, and breathtaking natural beauty. In Antarctica, all human activity is subject to the whims of Mother Nature. During evening briefings with your expedition leader, you will learn about the planned route for the next days or any changes, as well as valuable information about experiences or plans. Every effort is made to maximize opportunities for onshore exploration, with guest and crew safety always the top priority. Join the spirit of the expedition and be flexible: Bad weather offers the opportunity to expand your knowledge of Antarctica with lectures from the experienced expedition team, or enjoy the first-class comfort of the ship, whether it's wine tasting, relaxing in the hot tubs, or enjoying a soothing massage.

Day 16-17: Crossing the Drake Passage
It's time to leave Antarctica and make the journey back across the Drake Passage towards the Beagle Channel and Ushuaia, Argentina. During the time at sea, there are various opportunities to reflect on the past days. Relax with a masterfully prepared cocktail in the Nordic Bar in the company of new friends, immerse yourself in the knowledge and passion of our expedition team during lectures in the Shackleton Lounge, or simply enjoy the flight of the albatrosses accompanying us northward. On the last evening on board, you are invited to join the Captain and officers for a Farewell Cocktail, followed by a presentation of photos and videos from our onboard photographer.

Day 18: Disembarkation in Ushuaia
After one last breakfast, it is unfortunately time to say goodbye. This unforgettable journey ends in Ushuaia. After disembarkation, a transfer will take you to the city center of Ushuaia or to the airport - with countless memories in your luggage.

Travel Information:
Boarding and disembarkation take place in Ushuaia. The journey begins with a transfer from the city center in Ushuaia to the ship and ends with a transfer to the city center in Ushuaia or the airport."

Expedition Vessel:
Ocean Albatros
The Ocean Albatros is a stylish and revolutionary passenger ship that combines the advantages of a small expedition vessel with those of a luxury cruise ship. With a maximum occupancy of 175 passengers in 94 state-of-the-art cabins and suites, a warm hearted, caring crew and a guest-to-guide ratio of 8:1, an intimate and friendly atmosphere is created on board. Each of the cozy and private cabins offers an undisturbed view of the vastness of the sea, most even with their own balcony. The ship has two restaurants and a wellness area with a heated pool, jacuzzis, sauna and spa. There are also various bars, lounges and a modern lecture hall on board. The Ocean Albatros is a "comfort class" certified ship, sailing with the lowest noise and vibration levels in the industry. She is also "clean-ship-certified", runs on Tier 3-compliant engines (4 diesel engines, 2 electric engines) and therefore has one of the cleanest propulsion systems in the world.

Ocean Victory
Albatros Expeditions' fleet was expanded by the Ocean Victory in November 2021 and established as one of the most modern small ships in the market. Stylish and modern, this ship welcomes you in the Antarctic, offering 93 cabins for 175 passengers - all with ocean views (and 90% with their own balcony). With multiple restaurants, a wellness area, an Albatros Nordic Bar, an open deck dining facility, a modern lecture lounge, and other amenities, the vessel is also environmentally friendly onboard, thanks to the Green Initiative Program implementation, ensuring both absolute comfort and sustainability. With one of the highest Polar Code 6 and Ice class 1A, Ocean Victory is the ideal vessel for small-ship cruises due to its sturdy construction and X-Bow®-Infinity class, providing high stability and smooth movements on high waves. The ship is part of a brand new generation of low-energy vessels with 4 diesel engines and 2 electro engines, all electronically controlled to optimize speed and fuel consumption.
Show all dates