Antarctica & South Georgia: Sail & Fly the Drake Passage | 15 Days

Antarctica & South Georgia: Sail & Fly the Drake Passage | Antarctica ToursAntarctica & South Georgia: Sail & Fly the Drake Passage | Antarctica Tours
Embark on an extraordinary 15-day expedition aboard Silver Endeavour, departing October 23, 2028, from Puerto Williams, Chile, and traveling through the South Atlantic to South Georgia and the Antarctic Peninsula. Begin with three days at sea, enjoying the ship's spa, restaurants, observation areas, and expert presentations before reaching South Georgia, where vast colonies of king penguins, enormous elephant seals, fur seals, and wandering albatrosses inhabit spectacular coastlines beneath snow-covered mountains. Explore Grytviken, a former whaling station associated with Sir Ernest Shackleton, and discover the remarkable history of Antarctic exploration. Continue south toward Elephant Island, where Shackleton's stranded crew survived for more than four months, before spending three full days exploring the Antarctic Peninsula through guided Zodiac excursions and shore landings among glaciers, fjords, icebergs, penguins, seals, and humpback whales. Possible exploration sites include Paradise Bay, Lemaire Channel, Port Lockroy, Petermann Island, and Deception Island, depending on conditions. The journey concludes in the South Shetland Islands, followed by a flight from King George Island to Punta Arenas, allowing you to avoid a second sea crossing of the Drake Passage.

15 Day Antarctica Itinerary

Day 1: Puerto Williams: Embark on Your South Atlantic Expedition

Your journey begins in Puerto Williams, Chile, one of the southernmost towns in the world, located along the shores of the Beagle Channel. Here, you board Silver Endeavour, the expedition vessel that will take you through the South Atlantic, South Georgia, and Antarctica over the next 15 days. After embarking, settle into your suite and become acquainted with the expedition team, whose knowledge and experience will accompany your exploration of these remote destinations. The first day provides an introduction to life aboard the ship before the voyage officially gets underway. As evening arrives, Silver Endeavour departs Puerto Williams and begins navigating toward the South Atlantic. Your expedition is now underway, with South Georgia as the first major destination on a journey that will eventually lead to the Antarctic Peninsula.
Meals Included: Lunch / Dinner

Day 2: At Sea: Beginning the Journey to South Georgia

The first of three consecutive days at sea begins as Silver Endeavour makes its way toward South Georgia. This part of the voyage offers an opportunity to enjoy the ship's facilities while gradually becoming immersed in the expedition experience. Spend time in the spa, explore the onboard restaurants, or enjoy views of the surrounding ocean from the ship's observation areas. Outside, watch for albatrosses and petrels flying alongside the vessel. The expedition experts begin sharing their knowledge through presentations about wildlife, geology, and the remarkable history of Sir Ernest Shackleton. These talks provide valuable context for the destinations ahead, particularly South Georgia and its connection to Antarctic exploration. The day combines relaxation, seabird observation, and opportunities to learn more about the environments you are traveling to discover.
Meals Included: Breakfast / Lunch / Dinner

Day 3: At Sea: Seabirds and Stories of Polar Exploration

Continue navigating through the South Atlantic on the second day of the voyage toward South Georgia. The surrounding ocean provides opportunities to observe albatrosses and petrels accompanying Silver Endeavour as it continues its journey. Onboard experts offer presentations about the wildlife and geology associated with the expedition's destinations, along with the history of Shackleton's Antarctic adventures. These educational sessions help prepare travelers for the wildlife encounters and historical locations awaiting them in South Georgia. Between presentations, enjoy the restaurants, spa, and observation areas aboard Silver Endeavour. The days at sea provide a different rhythm from the Zodiac excursions and shore landings that will characterize the next stages of the expedition. As the ship continues toward South Georgia, anticipation builds for the extraordinary wildlife colonies and landscapes ahead.
Meals Included: Breakfast / Lunch / Dinner

Day 4: At Sea: Approaching South Georgia

The third day of ocean navigation brings Silver Endeavour closer to South Georgia, the first major exploration destination of the expedition. Continue enjoying the onboard facilities, including the spa, restaurants, and observation areas, while the ship progresses across the South Atlantic. Albatrosses and petrels may be seen flying near the vessel, providing opportunities for seabird observation during the passage. The expedition team continues preparing travelers through expert talks focused on wildlife, geology, and the history of Sir Ernest Shackleton. These presentations introduce themes that will become particularly meaningful during the upcoming visit to Grytviken and other locations associated with the region's natural and historical heritage. After three days at sea, the expedition prepares to begin exploring South Georgia and its remarkable coastal environments.
Meals Included: Breakfast / Lunch / Dinner

Day 5: South Georgia: A Wildlife Paradise

Silver Endeavour reaches South Georgia, beginning three days of exploration in one of the most remarkable wildlife destinations described in the expedition. The island's beaches are home to thousands of king penguins, creating extraordinary scenes along the coastline. Enormous elephant seals, some weighing several tons, share the coastal environment with fur seals, while wandering albatrosses are another notable part of the island's wildlife. Above the beaches, snow-covered mountains descend dramatically toward the sea, providing a spectacular backdrop for the expedition. During the three-day visit, the itinerary includes Grytviken and possible landings in areas such as Salisbury Plain, St. Andrews, and Fortuna Bay, depending on weather conditions. The expedition team determines suitable locations for exploration according to the prevailing conditions. This first day introduces the remarkable combination of wildlife, mountain scenery, and remote coastal environments that makes South Georgia such an important part of the journey.
Meals Included: Breakfast / Lunch / Dinner

Day 6: South Georgia: Grytviken and the Legacy of Shackleton

Continue discovering South Georgia, where the expedition includes a visit to Grytviken, a former whaling station closely associated with the history of Antarctic exploration. The settlement contains a museum and a small church, offering an opportunity to learn more about the location's past. One of the most meaningful moments of the visit is the opportunity to raise a toast at the grave of Sir Ernest Shackleton, following a tradition associated with the famous explorer. The experience connects the expedition's historical presentations with a place directly linked to Shackleton's legacy. South Georgia's surrounding environment also features vast king penguin colonies, elephant seals, fur seals, wandering albatrosses, and snow-covered mountains reaching toward the sea. Depending on the weather, the expedition may also include landings in bays such as Salisbury Plain, St. Andrews, or Fortuna Bay during the South Georgia portion of the itinerary.
Meals Included: Breakfast / Lunch / Dinner

Day 7: South Georgia: Penguin Colonies and Dramatic Coastal Landscapes

Your final day dedicated to South Georgia provides another opportunity to experience the island's exceptional natural surroundings. The coastline is characterized by immense colonies of king penguins, elephant seals weighing several tons, fur seals, and wandering albatrosses. Snow-covered mountains rise above the coastal landscapes, creating a striking contrast between the island's wildlife-filled beaches and its dramatic terrain. The expedition's exploration locations depend on weather conditions, with potential landings in Salisbury Plain, St. Andrews, and Fortuna Bay. These possible sites form part of the three-day South Georgia program, although the precise order of visits is not specified. The day's experiences complete an important chapter of the voyage, combining wildlife observation, remarkable scenery, and the historical significance of Grytviken and Shackleton's legacy. The expedition then continues toward Antarctica.
Meals Included: Breakfast / Lunch / Dinner

Day 8: At Sea: Sailing South Toward Antarctica

After the exploration of South Georgia, Silver Endeavour begins navigating south toward Antarctica. The next two days are dedicated to the ocean passage connecting these remote regions. As the ship travels farther south, icebergs begin appearing in the surrounding waters, gradually transforming the seascape. Whale sightings also become more frequent along this stage of the journey, according to the itinerary. Onboard experts continue offering presentations to prepare travelers for the Antarctic exploration ahead. These sessions provide an opportunity to learn more about the environments and experiences awaiting the expedition. The day offers time to observe the changing ocean scenery, watch for whales, and enjoy the transition from South Georgia's wildlife-rich coastline to the icy landscapes of Antarctica.
Meals Included: Breakfast / Lunch / Dinner

Day 9: At Sea: Icebergs and Whale Encounters

The second day of navigation toward Antarctica continues through waters increasingly marked by the presence of icebergs. As Silver Endeavour travels south, the surrounding scenery begins to reflect the frozen environment that will dominate the coming days. The itinerary also describes increasing opportunities to observe whales during this portion of the voyage. While the ship continues its passage, attend expert presentations designed to prepare travelers for the next stage of the expedition. These onboard talks provide additional context before the visit to Elephant Island and the exploration of the Antarctic Peninsula. The day marks the final stage of the two-day southbound navigation from South Georgia. With icebergs appearing around the ship and Antarctic wildlife becoming an increasingly important part of the experience, the expedition approaches the next chapter of its journey.
Meals Included: Breakfast / Lunch / Dinner

Day 10: Elephant Island: Following Shackleton's Survival Story

Today, Silver Endeavour reaches Elephant Island, a location closely connected to one of the most extraordinary survival stories in Antarctic exploration. After the loss of Endurance, members of Sir Ernest Shackleton's expedition survived on this remote island for more than four months while awaiting rescue. The visit provides an opportunity to encounter the setting of this historic event and reflect on the challenges faced by the stranded explorers. If sea conditions permit, the expedition may approach Point Wild aboard a Zodiac. This location is associated with the rescue of Shackleton's men and features a bust honoring pilot Pardo, the Chilean mariner who ultimately rescued them. The possibility of approaching Point Wild depends on sea conditions. The day's experience brings the history discussed during the voyage into focus at one of its most significant locations.
Meals Included: Breakfast / Lunch / Dinner

Day 11: Antarctic Peninsula: Exploring the White Continent

The expedition arrives at the Antarctic Peninsula for the first of three full days devoted to exploring the White Continent. The landscape is dominated by fjords, glaciers, and enormous icebergs that create an extraordinary environment for expedition cruising. Guided Zodiac excursions and shore landings provide opportunities to experience the Antarctic surroundings beyond the ship. The region is home to gentoo, Adélie, and chinstrap penguins, along with Weddell seals, leopard seals, and humpback whales. Throughout the three-day exploration, the expedition team selects suitable locations according to ice conditions. Possible destinations include Paradise Bay, Lemaire Channel, Port Lockroy, and Petermann Island. The day's activities introduce the spectacular icy scenery and wildlife encounters that define this stage of the expedition.
Meals Included: Breakfast / Lunch / Dinner

Day 12: Antarctic Peninsula: Glaciers, Icebergs, and Polar Wildlife

Continue exploring the Antarctic Peninsula, where another full day offers opportunities for Zodiac excursions and shore landings among the region's remarkable icy landscapes. The surrounding fjords and glaciers provide an impressive backdrop as Silver Endeavour navigates the area. Large icebergs dominate sections of the waters, creating striking scenery throughout the expedition. Wildlife observation remains central to the experience, with opportunities to encounter gentoo, Adélie, and chinstrap penguins, as well as Weddell seals, leopard seals, and humpback whales. The expedition team evaluates ice conditions when selecting locations for the day's activities. Paradise Bay, Lemaire Channel, Port Lockroy, and Petermann Island are among the possible exploration sites during the three-day peninsula visit. The day continues the expedition's combination of Antarctic scenery, guided landings, and wildlife encounters.
Meals Included: Breakfast / Lunch / Dinner

Day 13: Antarctic Peninsula: Final Discoveries Among the Ice

Your third and final full day in the Antarctic Peninsula brings additional opportunities to discover its extraordinary landscapes. The expedition continues with shore landings and Zodiac excursions among glacial fjords and immense icebergs. As the ship explores the region, watch for the wildlife described throughout this stage of the itinerary, including humpback whales, Weddell seals, leopard seals, and colonies of gentoo, Adélie, and chinstrap penguins. The precise locations visited remain dependent on ice conditions. Possible exploration areas include Paradise Bay, Lemaire Channel, Port Lockroy, and Petermann Island, with the expedition team selecting suitable sites. This final day completes three days of exploration in the Antarctic Peninsula, following the journey through South Georgia and Elephant Island. The expedition then approaches its concluding destination in the South Shetland Islands.
Meals Included: Breakfast / Lunch / Dinner

Day 14: South Shetland Islands: Deception Island and Farewell Dinner

The final day of exploration takes place in the South Shetland Islands, marking the last opportunity to experience the Antarctic environment before the expedition concludes. Depending on prevailing conditions, Silver Endeavour may enter the volcanic caldera of Deception Island. This potential visit introduces a volcanic landscape to an itinerary that has already featured wildlife-filled coastlines, glacial fjords, and enormous icebergs. The expedition team's decisions regarding navigation and exploration depend on the conditions encountered. As the journey approaches its conclusion, reflect on the remarkable destinations visited over the preceding two weeks, from South Georgia's king penguin colonies to the historic shores of Elephant Island and the Antarctic Peninsula. In the evening, a farewell dinner aboard Silver Endeavour celebrates the expedition and the experiences shared throughout the voyage.
Meals Included: Breakfast / Lunch / Dinner

Day 15: King George Island to Punta Arenas: Fly Home from Antarctica

Your 15-day expedition comes to an end at King George Island in the South Shetland Islands. After an early disembarkation from Silver Endeavour, board the return flight to the mainland. The flight takes you to Punta Arenas, Chile, completing the journey without the need for a second sea crossing of the Drake Passage. This air transfer provides a different conclusion from the voyage's beginning, when Silver Endeavour departed Puerto Williams and traveled through the South Atlantic toward South Georgia. Over the course of the expedition, you have explored South Georgia's wildlife colonies, visited locations associated with Shackleton's historic expedition, and experienced the icy landscapes of the Antarctic Peninsula. The journey concludes upon arrival in Punta Arenas.
Meals Included: Breakfast
St. Andrews Bay | South Georgia | King penguins
 | Falkland | BirdDeception Island | South Shetland Islands |  AntarcticaPrion Island | South Georgia |  AntarcticaPunta Arenas | Chile |  Antarctica | Paulet Island |  Antarctica | Disko Island | huge icebergs | Falkland | Rockhopper, Black-browed Albatross colonySalisbury Plains | South Georgia | King PenguinsIceberg | Scotia Sea |  Antarctica | Paradise Bay |  AntarcticaFortuna Bay | South Georgia |  AntarcticaNeko Harbour | Antarctic Peninsula | Zodiac landing

15 Day Antarctica Itinerary Includes

  • Luxury accommodation in an ocean-view suite
  • Personalized butler service
  • All meals onboard, including gourmet dining experiences
  • Selected alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages
  • 24-hour in-suite dining service
  • Complimentary onboard Wi-Fi
  • Gratuities for onboard staff
  • Guided Zodiac excursions and shore landings
  • Expedition activities led by experienced naturalist guides
  • Educational lectures and enrichment programs
  • Complimentary use of expedition equipment, including parkas on polar voyages
  • Access to onboard facilities, including fitness center, pool, and observation lounges
  • Port taxes and fees
  • Transfers and selected pre- or post-cruise arrangements, according to the booked fare

15 Day Antarctica Itinerary Does not Include

  • International flights, unless specifically included in the booked package
  • Travel insurance and medical evacuation coverage
  • Passport, visa, and other travel documentation expenses
  • Personal purchases and onboard boutique shopping
  • Spa treatments, beauty services, and selected wellness experiences
  • Medical consultations and onboard medical services
  • Optional private excursions or activities not included in the expedition program
  • Additional hotel nights outside the confirmed itinerary
  • Transfers or independent travel arrangements not specified in the booking
  • Premium services or special arrangements not covered by the selected fare

15 Day Antarctica Itinerary Highlights

  • Explore Antarctica and South Georgia aboard Silver Endeavour: Experience a 15-day, 14-night expedition departing October 23, 2028, from Puerto Williams.
  • Discover South Georgia's extraordinary wildlife: Observe beaches populated by thousands of king penguins, elephant seals, fur seals, and wandering albatrosses.
  • Visit historic Grytviken: Explore a former whaling station, its museum and small church, and participate in the tradition of raising a toast at Sir Ernest Shackleton's grave.
  • Experience South Georgia's spectacular scenery: Discover snow-covered mountains descending toward the sea, with possible landings at Salisbury Plain, St. Andrews, and Fortuna Bay.
  • Follow Shackleton's survival story at Elephant Island: Learn about the stranded Endurance crew and potentially approach Point Wild, where a bust honors Chilean rescuer Pardo.
  • Spend three full days exploring the Antarctic Peninsula: Enjoy guided Zodiac excursions and shore landings among glaciers, fjords, and immense icebergs.
  • Encounter diverse Antarctic wildlife: Look for gentoo, Adélie, and chinstrap penguins, Weddell seals, leopard seals, and humpback whales.
  • Explore remarkable Antarctic locations: Depending on ice conditions, possible sites include Paradise Bay, Lemaire Channel, Port Lockroy, and Petermann Island.
  • Discover the South Shetland Islands: Conclude the Antarctic exploration with a possible visit to Deception Island's volcanic caldera.
  • Enjoy expert-led learning at sea: Attend presentations about wildlife, geology, Shackleton's history, and the Antarctic environment.
  • Return from Antarctica by air: Fly from King George Island to Punta Arenas, avoiding a second sea crossing of the Drake Passage.

Itinerary Map

Antarctica & South Georgia: Sail & Fly the Drake Passage

Cruise options for this itinerary

Note: The prices may vary depending on the cruise and cabin category. Please contact us for more details.

15 Day Antarctica cruise activities

Sea Kayaking
Under full instruction from your sea kayaking guide, experience true tranquillity as you paddle through clinking ice floes and realise the enormity of the surrounding scenery. Look out for breaching whales, lounging seals and penguins zipping alongside your kayak. Some experience is required.
Ice Camping
Camp out on the ice and experience the silence which blankets the continent by night. This is your chance to completely connect with this ethereal ice world – wrap up warm and embrace the Antarctic elements.
Snowshoeing
Get a spring in your step when you slip on a pair of snowshoes in Antarctica. Enabling you to easily scale gentle slopes, this unique activity allows you to access hard to reach places and seek out the most impressive views.
Photography
Learn to capture wildlife and landscape shots in a small group photography program, including critiquing sessions and editing classes. Plus, Explorer Boat excursions with a dedicated photography expert on landings.
Explorer Boats
Achieve the best views and photographs from a forward facing Explorer Boats. They allow you to sit comfortably and securely while crackling through the ice-strewn waters. Look out for wildlife such as penguins, seals and whales as you cruise.
Yoga
It doesn’t get more serene than complimentary yoga classes to the tune of glacial scenery. Join the most unique exercise setting in the world after a day of exploration. Classes are regular but are dependent on weather conditions and swell.

Animals you might see on this itinerary

Antarctica & South Georgia: Sail & Fly the Drake Passage

From USD 23600,00
Book your 15-day Antarctica tour now and create memories to last a lifetime!

Why travel with us?

Galapagos experienceOver 22 years of experience
South America & Antarctica SpecialistsSouth America & Antarctica Specialists
Galapagos packagesSet and Tailor-made packages
Galapagos cruisesThe best last-minute cruise deals
Galapagos trips24/7 Customer service during your trip
Galapagos experienceMulti-Destination packages

Would you like to know why booking with us is the best choice?

Discover the Benefits

Similar Itineraries

Silver Endeavour
Arctic: Exploring Northeastern Greenland
From USD 19100,00 pp
Antarctica
10 Days
Arctic: Exploring Northeastern Greenland
Silver Endeavour
Arctic: Exploring Svalbard
From USD 18150,00 pp
Antarctica
7 Days
Arctic: Exploring Svalbard
Silver Endeavour
Antarctica & the Falklands: Sail & Fly the Drake Passage
From USD 21550,00 pp
Antarctica
14 Days
Antarctica & The Falklands: Sail & Fly The Drake Passage
Silver Endeavour
Arctic: Exploring Svalbard, Greenland & Iceland
From USD 30450,00 pp
Antarctica
19 Days
Arctic: Exploring Svalbard, Greenland & Iceland