Expedition to the Falklands, South Georgia, and Antarctica | 22 Days

Arrive in Montevideo at any time and soak in the vibrant atmosphere of Uruguay’s capital city. Wander through charming neighborhoods adorned with colorful houses, sample local culture, and take in the unique blend of European and South American influences. Montevideo’s bustling markets, waterfront promenade, and historic sites provide an enriching introduction to the region before the journey south begins. Enjoy a relaxing evening in the city or prepare for the adventure ahead.

Spend the morning exploring Montevideo’s streets and markets before transferring to the port for embarkation in the early afternoon. Once aboard the expedition ship, settle into your cabin and enjoy the first views of the South Atlantic as the vessel sets sail. The evening provides an opportunity to mingle with fellow travelers, attend a brief orientation, and watch the coastline recede as the journey toward the Falkland Islands officially begins

As the ship sails southeast, become familiar with onboard amenities and enjoy a rich schedule of lectures covering Antarctic exploration, marine ecosystems, and the region’s unique history. Spend time on deck spotting wildlife, including albatross, whales, and dolphins, and relax in the library or social lounges. These days provide a perfect balance of leisure and education, allowing travelers to acclimate to life at sea while preparing for the extraordinary environments that lie ahead.

Arrive at the Falkland Islands, a haven for wildlife and natural beauty. Explore the abundant penguin colonies and witness the world’s largest black-browed albatross colony. Visit Stanley, the islands’ capital, and experience the resilience of the local community and their colorful homes set against rugged landscapes. The Falklands offer a unique opportunity to see diverse southern hemisphere species and gain insight into island life in one of the planet’s most remote locations.

Spend two days at sea en route to South Georgia. Participate in lectures on the island’s ecology and history while keeping watch for whales and seabirds from the deck. These days offer time to appreciate the vastness of the Southern Ocean, prepare for upcoming landings, and enjoy the camaraderie of fellow explorers. The endless horizon and dramatic ocean scenery provide a prelude to the rich wildlife encounters awaiting in South Georgia.

Explore South Georgia over several days, weather permitting, to uncover its remarkable landscapes, historical sites, and wildlife. Visit the grave of explorer Ernest Shackleton and remnants of former whaling stations. Witness massive colonies of king penguins and monitor southern elephant seals, including newborn pups, in their natural habitat. Bird enthusiasts will also find the wandering albatross and other seabird colonies captivating. These days provide immersive exploration of an island that combines dramatic scenery with fascinating natural and human history.

Sail southwest across the Scotia Sea toward the South Shetland Islands, retracing parts of Shackleton’s legendary route. The nutrient-rich waters and long Antarctic summer days create thriving ecosystems, attracting whales, seals, and seabirds. Enjoy time on deck spotting wildlife and learning about the region’s intricate marine food chains, providing context for the incredible biodiversity of the Antarctic environment.

Explore the South Shetland Islands and, conditions permitting, the Antarctic Peninsula. Attempt daily shore landings to observe penguin rookeries, seals, and whales in their natural habitat. Learn about historic Antarctic expeditions and the human stories intertwined with these icy landscapes. The dramatic scenery and extraordinary wildlife encounters define this portion of the expedition, offering a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to experience Antarctica up close.

Cross the Drake Passage back toward South America, reflecting on the expedition and participating in final lectures. Keep watch for seabirds and whales while crossing the Antarctic Convergence, a dynamic meeting of polar and sub-Antarctic waters rich in marine life. This leg provides time to digest the journey’s experiences and enjoy the vastness of the Southern Ocean before arriving in Ushuaia.

Disembark in Ushuaia after breakfast and conclude the expedition. Take in the final sights of this southernmost city before departing, carrying memories of one of the planet’s most remote and wildlife-rich regions.