Explorers and Kings: the Falkland Islands, South Georgia, and Antarctica

Day 2: Embarkation Day
As you board theship, anticipation builds. Meet and greet your fellow travelers and get acquainted with your ship. Since every Antarctic adventure offers new opportunities and experiences, embarkation day is just as exciting for your expedition team as it is for you. To ensure your comfort and safety on board, your team will also help make your wildlife dreams come true.

Days 4 & 5: Falkland Islands (Islas Malvinas)
Upon your arrival in the Falkland Islands (Malvinas), your camera will get its first real workout as you capture the rich wildlife and rugged atmosphere of this sub-Antarctic region. The archipelago consists of two main islands, East Falkland and West Falkland, which you’ll explore on daily Zodiac excursions and shore landings.

Port Stanley is often a popular stopover, as the town offers a unique British outpost atmosphere with eclectic charm. You’re free to explore the town, have a pint at the local pub, or visit its many churches and museums.

As for wildlife, the archipelago is home to Magellanic, gentoo, and southern rockhopper penguins. If you’re lucky, you might even spot king penguins here! You can see black-browed albatrosses as well as two endemic bird species—the flightless Falkland steamer duck and, possibly, the elusive Cobb’s wren.

Their team of instructors and specialists will be sure to teach you about the local flora and fauna, helping you make the most of your time in the Falklands.

Days 8–11: South Georgia
This remote, mountainous island was a popular stopover for many historic Antarctic expeditions and was once a hub for whaling and seal hunting. Today, the island’s wildlife populations are recovering, but you’ll still see the remains of old whaling stations and other abandoned outposts.

An important and historic site is the grave of the great explorer Sir Ernest Shackleton. You can visit his grave in the settlement of Grytviken, which is also home to an old whaling station, a museum, a gift shop, a church, and a small research station.

Although South Georgia’s history is a major draw for visitors to the island, it is truly unforgettable because of its incredible abundance of wildlife. Every time you set foot on South Georgia—often referred to as the “Galapagos of the Poles”—you’ll be amazed by the wondrous world of new and fascinating creatures.

One day you might see hundreds of thousands of king penguin pairs waddling along a beach, and the next day you might visit another beach teeming with thousands of fur seals or elephant seals. The grasslands, mountains, and beaches of South Georgia all play a vital role in the reproduction and survival of the island’s various species. Your expedition team will explain this delicate and interconnected relationship to you during your time here.

Days 14–17: South Shetland Islands and Antarctic Peninsula
The most common reaction upon reaching the White Continent is a sense of awe. The experience is indescribable, for few places are as untouched and unchanging as Antarctica.

You’ll discover that Antarctica is a land of extremes. One moment you’ll be overcome by a sense of complete isolation and silence, and the next you’ll be inspired by nature as a calving glacier plunges into a brilliant blue sea or a penguin waddles by to inspect your shoes.

Your expedition team will take care of you on every excursion, whether you’re out on a Zodiac, visiting a historic site, or spending time with penguin colonies. Gentoo, Adélie, and chinstrap penguins can be found here, as well as Weddell, fur, crabeater, and leopard seals. During a Zodiac ride, keep an eye out for Antarctic whales, which may give you the chance for an intimate encounter with these majestic animals. Every day and every excursion will introduce you to a new array of creatures that will entertain you and keep your camera busy.

As exciting as the Zodiac excursions and landings are, why not treat yourself to a truly special Antarctic experience by joining an optional kayaking tour (for an additional fee) or putting your inhibitions aside and taking the plunge into Antarctic waters!

Day 20: Disembarkation in Ushuaia
After breakfast on board the ship, it’s time to part ways and say goodbye to your expedition team. Airport transportation will be arranged for those departing on the first flights home. Other guests will be taken into town.