Embark on a 17-day expedition from Punta Arenas, Chile, that seamlessly integrates the Falkland Islands (Malvinas) and South Georgia. Immerse yourself in the Falklands, observing rockhopper and gentoo penguins thriving in their natural surroundings. Witness Black-browed albatrosses and petrels soaring high above from the comfort of your zodiac. Explore local settlements on foot, connecting with the inhabitants who have called this island home for generations.
Continue the journey to South Georgia, where majestic mountains are perpetually cloaked in thick layers of ice and snow. Wildlife reigns supreme on this island paradise. Visit one of the world's largest king penguin colonies and witness elephant seals basking on the shores. As we navigate from bay to bay, be on the lookout for whales and graceful seabirds soaring across the sky.
Commencing at 9:00 hrs., head to Explorers House in Punta Arenas to utilize the amenities. At 16:00 hrs., a collective transfer will transport you to the port for boarding. While navigating the Strait of Magellan, our Expedition Team will provide insights into the historical significance of this legendary sea passage.
Experience the ship's hospitality during our journey to the Falklands (Malvinas), where a captivating series of lectures and presentations will commence.
Savor a morning at Saunders Island, reveling in its expansive white-sand beach. Amidst the wilderness, encounter rockhopper penguins, nesting black-browed albatrosses, and sub-Antarctic gentoo penguins. Later in the day, explore Carcass Island, with opportunities for a leisurely hike to the settlement, bird watching, and indulging in a traditional Falklands tea experience.
Participate in guided walking tours of Port Stanley or Gipsy Cove led by our expedition team. Alternatively, venture out independently to soak in the atmosphere. Enjoy lunch at a local pub, visit the maritime museum, explore the church, hunt for souvenirs, or stroll down Ross Road. Pay homage at the war memorials along the waterfront.
While sailing towards South Georgia, engage in presentations about the archipelago's history and fauna. Accompanied by expert guides, keep a lookout for wildlife from the lounge or outside decks. Marvel at magnificent seabirds like albatrosses and petrels, and be on the lookout for various whale species.
Arrival in the afternoon is scheduled, contingent on sea conditions in the preceding days. Pending approval from the South Georgia government, an evening Zodiac cruise at Elsehul Bay is planned.
Initiating our exploration, we first land at Grytviken. After clearing Customs, we explore the historical site featuring a museum and Ernest Shackleton's grave. In the afternoon, we reach Fortuna Bay/Stromness to witness king penguins. Delve into the legacy of Shackleton and his expedition, with an optional 2-3 hour "Shackleton walk" available.
The morning entails a landing at Gold Harbour, a breathtaking locale boasting king penguins, elephant seals, and suspended glaciers, with the added presence of sooty albatrosses. In the afternoon, embark on a Zodiac cruise to Cooper Bay for a glimpse of macaroni penguins.
Our morning excursion takes us to St Andrews Bay, showcasing a shipwreck and remnants of the whaling industry. Witness the largest king penguin colony and elephant seal bulls. In the afternoon, we schedule a Zodiac cruise and landing at Ocean Harbour.
Our morning itinerary includes a visit to Prion Island to observe nesting wandering albatrosses. In the afternoon, we proceed to Salisbury Plain for additional sightings of king penguins and breathtaking landscapes.
The educational program persists as we journey back to the Falkland Islands (Islas Malvinas).
Experience an evening landing at Bleaker Island, renowned for its natural reserve and a prominent bird area hosting a diverse array of bird species.
Upon reaching Punta Arenas, disembark and join a group transfer to the town center, marking the conclusion of the expedition. Explorers House remains at your disposal for the day.