Falkland Islands - South Georgia - Antarctica

Where the world ends, your journey begins. Ushuaia is located at the very southernmost tip of South America, and it's reputedly the world's southernmost city. You will depart from the small town of Tierra del Fuego (nicknamed "The End of the World") in the late afternoon and spend the rest of the night sailing the Beagle Channel, which is surrounded by mountains.

The vessel is followed by several albatross species, as well as storm petrels and shearwaters.

It is easy to approach the wildlife on the Falkland Island, but caution should be taken. The Falkland Islands are little-known gems that were the scene of the 1982 conflict between Argentina and the UK. You can see a variety of birds and dolphins. You may also visit these sites during this part of your voyage:

Carcass Island - This island, despite its name is rodent free and therefore abundant with birds and endemic species. The island is home to a variety of birds, including gentoos (gentoos are Magellanic penguins that breed), waders (including Cobb’s wrens) and passerine species.

Saunders Island - On Saunders Island, you will see imperial shags (which are breeding) and rockhoppers penguins. Here you can also find Magellanic and King penguins.

Port Stanley, the capital and cultural center of the Falklands, has a Victorian charm. Its colorful homes, well-kept gardens and English pubs have Victorian flair. All can be found right here. Nearby, you can see some century-old clipper vessels that are silent witnesses of the struggles faced by sailors in 19th century. This small, but fascinating The museum, which covers the history of the settlement from the beginning to the Falklands War is worth visiting. Port Stanley is home to approximately 2,100 residents. Admission to the The museum includes a number of exhibits.

You now pass the Antarctic Convergence on your way to South Georgia. Within a short time, the temperature drops dramatically. This is caused by colliding water column. The phenomenon is a magnet for seabirds, especially several types of birds. Albatrosss, Shearwaters petrels prions and skuas.

You have arrived at your first South Georgia site. Remember that the weather in this region can be difficult, and this will dictate much of your program. You will have the opportunity to see the following places over the next few days: 

Prion Island - This area is closed for the first part of the Wandering Albatross breeding period (November 20 to January 7). In January, breeding adults will have found partners and be sitting on their eggs or breastfeeding their chicks. The gentleness of this animal, with the longest wingspan in the world, is a delight to watch.

Fortuna Bay - In the beautiful plains of Fortuna Glacier, you can find a lot of seals and king penguins. You can also follow Shackleton’s final route from the whaling town of Stromness to this beautiful outwash plain. The path follows the pass that lies beyond Shackleton’s Waterfall. It is part swampy and you will need to navigate a few streams.

Salisbury Plains, St. Andrews Bay and Gold Harbour - The three biggest colonies of king penguins in South Georgia are also the largest breeding beaches on the planet for Antarctic fur seals. During December and January, South Georgia is home to literally millions of breeding seals. They reach their peak breeding only during mid-season. You will see some adult Elephant Seals, as well as the 'Weaner Seals' of this season. These are young Elephant Seals who have been left on their own. Keep cool and watch your steps when you are walking along the beach during this period.
Grytviken During this old abandoned whaling base, elephant seals and king penguins roam the streets like they owned the place. You may be able see Shackleton’s grave as well as the South Georgia Museum.

 

Depending on conditions and the weather, in the late afternoon of Day 10, we'll start heading south in direction of South Orkney Islands.

Sea ice may exist on this route. At the edge, some snow petrels and south polars skuas might join other seabirds following the vessel. south.

Depending on conditions, it is possible to visit Orcadas Base on Laurie Island, a scientific station of Argentina in the South Orkney Archipelago. Personnel here will be able to provide you with a wealth of information. The facility offers a panoramic view of the glaciers surrounding it. You can land on Coronation Island instead if a visit to the island is not possible. Shingle Cove.

This last voyage to the south is not without its highlights. You'll see a lot of icebergs, and there are chances you will spot fin whales. This is also your best opportunity to see Antarctic petrels are here. We aim to start activities on the 14th day, depending on weather conditions.

You can now enter the Weddell sea if the conditions are right. You will see colossal icebergs in the form of tabular shapes as you approach the Antarctic Peninsula. Paulet Island is another possible destination. It has a large number of Adelie Penguins. Brown Bluff is located within the Antarctic Sound where there are many icebergs. You could even get to step foot on Antarctica itself. The ship may head to Elephant Island if conditions don't allow it to enter Weddell Strait from the East. It will then proceed into Bransfield Strait between Elephant Island and the mainland. South Shetland Islands, Antarctic Peninsula. You can try to reach the Antarctic Sound by the Northwest. Bransfield Strait and the Gerlache Strait are also breathtaking. Drake Passage Conditions Determine the exact departure time.

You're not alone on your return journey. You'll see the same seabirds you saw on the way south as you cross the Drake. They are still there You and they seem to be a bit more familiar now.

No matter how great the adventure may be, it must end. Now it's time to leave Ushuaia but you will carry with you the memories. Wherever your next adventure takes you.