Penguin safari on South Georgia and the Antarctic Peninsula

from/to Ushuaia

18 days (17 nights)

MS Ocean Explorer / MS World Voyager
16 days (15 nights) Antarctic cruise from/to Ushuaia or Buenos Aires, including South Georgia, the South Shetland Islands, the Antarctic Peninsula, and the Drake Passage.
This adventure is the fastest way to reach the rarely visited South Georgia archipelago and set foot on the 7th continent. Have your camera ready as giant albatrosses and petrels circle overhead.
Huge colonies of king penguins and elephant seals welcome you to this magical island, where you can pay your respects to the famous explorer Sir Ernest Shackleton. Antarctica awaits you with its geographical contradictions and overwhelming size.
Relax on a Zodiac ride, hike on sparkling glaciers, share funny moments with curious penguins, or experience the rugged peninsula from a sea kayak. Antarctica will surprise and delight you, and you will never be disappointed.
Bizarre ice formations will be your daily companions as you experience the unique wildlife, including whales, seals, and penguins. On this penguin safari, you will often encounter these cute creatures. Experience sensory overload like no other on this Antarctic expedition.
There are not many places in the world that are as bizarre and magical as theAntarctic Peninsula.
As a special highlight, I recommend that you sign up for sea kayaking, paddling tours, or stand-up paddleboarding (for a fee) when you make your booking.
Stephanie Gräf
Travel expert, inventia | Travel beyond the ordinary
Specialist in travel to the Arctic and Antarctic.
I am your contact person for questions and bookings relating to the Arctic and Antarctic, and I am delighted that you are one of the few people who are traveling to the ends of the earth.
You can reach me by phone or email:
+49 (0)201 858 90 960
welcome@inventia.de
Good to know
Arrival and departure:We offer various individual travel packages including flights, hotels in Buenos Aires and Ushuaia, transfers, and activities. We are also happy to suggest pre- and post-programs in Argentina, Chile, and Uruguay to extend your trip.
Attention solo travelers: If you do not wish to have a single cabin, accommodation on board is possible in shared cabins. In this case, you will be accommodated with other travelers of the same gender and possibly of a different nationality. There are no single cabin surcharges.
Entry requirements: German citizens need only a passport (valid for 6 months beyond the date of return) to enter Argentina.
Insurance: Proof of international health insurance covering medical repatriationmust be provided.
Medical questionnaire:You are required to completea medical questionnaire before departure.
HIGHLIGHTS
- Ushuaia, the southernmost city in the world, located in Argentina
- Grave of Sir Ernest Shackleton in South Georgia
- Abandoned whaling stations and stories of the residents who called this island home
- Breathtaking nature experience at the "Galapagos of the Poles"
- The world's largest king penguin colony in South Georgia
- Antarctic Peninsula with pristine landscapes of snow, ice, mountains, and waterways
- Interesting presentations and lectures by polar specialists on board
- Drake Passage – ideal for whale watching
- South Shetland Islands with unique wildlife, including penguins, seals, whales, and more
- Excursions by Zodiac to remote bays
- Optional: Kayaking, paddling tour, and stand-up paddleboarding (additional charge)
itinerary
Penguin safari in South Georgia and the Antarctic Peninsula
Day 1: Arrival in Ushuaia, Argentina
You begin your journey in Ushuaia, a small but bustling port at the tip of South America. It is the ideal starting point for you to explore the southern reaches of Patagonia as you prepare for your upcoming adventure. Get active in the mountains or enjoy handmade chocolate in a café in the city.
Today you will arrive in Buenos Aires if your itinerary starts/ends in Buenos Aires.
Day 2: Embarkation Day
Embarkation takes place in the late afternoon, after which your ship will sail down the historic Beagle Channel, which crosses the Tierra del Fuego archipelago in the extreme south of South America. Expect a feeling of anticipation as you set sail!
For trips departing from/returning to Buenos Aires, you will be taken to Ushuaia by charter flight after breakfast.
Days 3–6: At Sea
There are many activities to keep you busy while at sea. Learn to identify seabirds gliding alongside the ship, or attend interesting presentations by your expedition team. You will be briefed on safety procedures for Zodiac rides and landings, and receive instructions on how to make the most of your optional sea kayaking adventures (additional cost).
When conditions are favorable, the first indication that you are approaching South Georgia is the sight of birds around a group of rocky outcrops called Shag Rocks. Have your binoculars and cameras ready to capture these rocks rising out of the icy ocean waters. Cormorants and petrels often rest here, and due to the nutrient-rich upwelling sources around the rocks, it can be a good place to look for whales.
Days 7 to 9: South Georgia
After enjoying South Georgia from afar, head towards its numerous beaches to find a bay for your first shore excursion. The landing sites are varied and depend largely on the weather conditions during your voyage. Whichever places you visit, they offer wildlife encounters unlike anywhere else in the world.
South Georgia is one of the most fertile breeding grounds for sub-Antarctic wildlife, with beaches littered with penguins. It won't take long to realize that you are in a bird paradise, as you can see wading seabirds, albatrosses, and petrels in abundance.
You will find that South Georgia, once a popular base for whalers and sealers, is also littered with abandoned relics and evidence of human activity from centuries past. Your expedition team will help bring those days to life as you visit old whaling stations and enjoy presentations about South Georgia then and now.
One of the most significant places you will visit on the island is Grytviken. This settlement is one of the first whaling stations established in sub-Antarctic waters. Many travelers find this place particularly appealing because it is home to the remains of Sir Ernest Shackleton, one of the most famous Antarctic explorers.
On the 18-day trip, you will spend another day in South Georgia.
Days 10 & 11: At Sea
Say goodbye to the king penguins—your next destination is Antarctica! Your days at sea will be filled with presentations and workshops led by your expedition team, who will prepare you for the wildlife and landscapes that will surround you upon your arrival.
Days 12–15: Antarctic Peninsula
The most common reaction upon arrival on the White Continent is a sense of awe. The experience is difficult to put into words, as few places are as untouched and constant as Antarctica.
You will discover that Antarctica is a land of extremes. One moment you will be overcome by a feeling of complete isolation and silence, the next you will be inspired by nature as a calving glacier plunges into a bright blue sea or a penguin waddles by to inspect your footwear.
Your expedition team will take care of you on every excursion, whether you are traveling by Zodiac, visiting a historic site, or encountering penguin colonies. Gentoo, Adélie, and gentoo penguins can be found here, as well as Weddell, fur, crabeater, and leopard seals. Keep an eye out for whales during a Zodiac ride. Every day and every excursion will present animals for you to see.
As exciting as the Zodiac excursions and landings are, you may want to treat yourself to a very special Antarctic experience by taking part in an optional paddling excursion (at an additional cost).
On the 18-day trip, you will spend another day around the Antarctic Peninsula.
Days 16 & 17: Crossing the Drake Passage
After more than a dozen days of unique wildlife encounters and remarkable landscapes, your journey home begins. Crossing the Drake Passage is your unofficial rite of passage. Spend time on deck watching seabirds and whales, enjoy presentations by your expedition team, or simply relax and reflect on your experiences.
Day 18: Disembarkation in Ushuaia
You will arrive in Ushuaia in the morning, allowing you to continue your adventure or catch your flights home.
On the trip from/to Buenos Aires, you will take a tour of Tierra del Fuego National Park before being transferred to the airport for your group charter flight back to Buenos Aires.
from Buenos Aires | MS World Voyager
Penguin safari in South Georgia and the Antarctic Peninsula
Day 1: Arrival in Buenos Aires, Argentina
You may arrive in Buenos Aires at any time on the first day of your itinerary. Upon arrival in this magnificent city, known for its architecture and rich European heritage, you will be taken independently to your group hotel (the night before the expedition is included in the mandatory transfer package).
Day 2: Fly to Ushuaia & boardthe
After an early breakfast at the hotel, the group will be taken to the airport andflownto Ushuaia, Argentina, on a private charter flight.
Upon arrival, you will be taken from the airport to a central location in the city center, where you can explore this picturesque port city on your own before heading to the pier.
After boarding in the late afternoon, you’ll cruise along the historic Beagle Channel, which runs through the Tierra del Fuego archipelago in the far south of South America. Get ready for a sense of anticipation as you set sail!
Days 3–6: At Sea
There are plenty of activities to keep you entertained while at sea.
Learn to identify the seabirds gliding alongside the ship, or attend presentations by your expedition team. You’ll be briefed on safety procedures for Zodiac rides and shore landings, and receive instructions on how to make the most of your optional sea kayaking adventures (additional cost)—a truly intimate way to experience Antarctica.
When conditions are right, the first sign that you’re approaching South Georgia is the sight of birds circling a group of rocky outcrops known as Shag Rocks. Have your binoculars and cameras ready to capture these rocky outcrops rising from the icy waters of the ocean. Shags and prions often rest here, and because of the nutrient-rich upwellings around the rocks, this can be a great spot for whale watching.
Days 7–9: South Georgia
After enjoying SouthGeorgia from a distance, head to its many beaches to find a cove for your first excursion. The landing sites vary and depend largely on the weather conditions during your trip. No matter which places you visit, they all offer encounters with wildlife unlike anywhere else in the world.
South Georgia is one of the world’s most fertile breeding grounds for sub-Antarctic wildlife, with beaches teeming with penguins and seals. It won’t take long before you realize you’re in a bird paradise, as seabirds, albatrosses, and petrels can be seen here in abundance.
You’ll find that South Georgia, once a popular base for whalers and sealers, is also dotted with abandoned relics and evidence of human activity from centuries past. Your expedition team will help bring those days to life as you visit old whaling stations and enjoy presentations about South Georgia then and now.
One of the most significant sites you’ll visit on the island is Grytviken. This settlement was the first whaling station established in sub-Antarctic waters. Many travelers find this place particularly charming, as it is home to the grave of Sir Ernest Shackleton, one of the most famous Antarctic explorers.
Days 10 & 11: At Sea
Say goodbye to the king penguins—your next destination is Antarctica! Your days at sea will be filled with presentations and workshops led by your expedition team, who will prepare you for the wildlife and landscapes that will surround you upon your arrival.
Days 12–15: Antarctic Peninsula
The most common reaction upon arriving on the White Continent is a sense of awe. It’s difficult to put this experience into words, because few places are as untouched and unchanging as Antarctica.
You will 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 footwear. Your expedition team will take care of you on every excursion, whether you’re riding in a Zodiac, visiting a historic site, or mingling with penguin colonies. Chinstrap, Adélie, and Gentoo penguins can be found here, as well as Weddell, fur, crabeater, and leopard seals. Keep an eye out for Antarctic whales, such as minke whales, during a Zodiac cruise. Every day and on every excursion, new creatures will appear to delight 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 excursion (for an additional fee) or even taking a dip in Antarctic waters!
Your expedition team will draw on its extensive experience to track down wildlife in familiar habitats, but there is no guarantee of seeing specific bird or marine species.
Days 15–17: Crossing the Drake Passage
After more than a dozen days of unique encounters with wildlife and remarkable landscapes, your journey home begins. As you cross the Drake Passage, the return trip slowly gets underway. Spend time on deck watching seabirds and whales, enjoy presentations by your expedition team, or simply relax and reminisce about your experiences.
Day 18: Disembarkation in Ushuaia & Flight to Buenos Aires
You will arrive in Ushuaia in the morning and disembark after breakfast. The mandatory transfer package includes a brief taste of Patagonia with a tour of Tierra del Fuego National Park before you are taken to the airport for the group charter flight back to Buenos Aires.
The daily programs described here are for your guidance. The itinerary may vary considerably due to local ice and weather conditions, last-minute permit procedures, and local authorities, but also to respond to current conditions regarding wildlife viewing.Theexpedition leader on board will determine the final itinerary and daily program. Flexibility is of utmost importance during our expedition-style voyages.
activities
KAYAKING*
Imagine gliding across the surface of a bay surrounded by icebergs and glaciers. Kayaking is a great way to explore your surroundings in a spectacular way. A small group of kayakers will go out several times per trip as an alternative to landings or Zodiac rides.
The number of opportunities for kayaking depends on the weather and is only available in calm conditions. Previous kayaking experience is required, and you must be able to exit the kayak into the water in order to participate. Beginners who are interested in kayaking should consider participating in the paddle tour.
If you are interested in kayaking but are less experienced in sea kayaking, a paddle touris the perfect option for you. Paddling on stable sit-on-top kayaks is perfect for anyone with little or no kayaking experience. On calm days, rotating groups of passengers are selected, with experienced guides always on hand to give you instructions and help you connect with the Arctic Ocean.
STAND-UP PADDLEBOARDING*
Combining surfing with kayaking, stand-up paddleboarding, and paddling gives you a very personal and unique perspective on Antarctica. Conducted in small groups – in calm bays and harbors, in good weather – and accompanied by a safety gyro, unique stand-up paddle excursions can be booked in advance in two consecutive priority groups. After the first two successful excursions, this activity is offered on a first-come, first-served basis for all subsequent excursions by registering on board the ship.
PHOTOGRAPHY WORKSHOP*
This guided photography program is designed for photographers of all skill levels. Each day of the voyage, guests who sign up for the program receive priority boarding for the first wave of Zodiac excursions. This small group (maximum 16 participants, 8 per Zodiac) is accompanied by the same guide every day throughout the voyage and receives professional advice, practical tips, and personalized feedback on photography during the excursions and in the subsequent workshops.
This program offers an excellent opportunity to explore the regions you visit in depth while specifically honing your photography skills.
*subject to a fee
PLEASE NOTE
Advance registration is required for all paid activities. It is recommended to book early as places fill up quickly. Please refer to your information materials for a list of equipment provided for each option.
DATES & PRICES
Request your trip here!
Submit questions via email Arrange a callback Call now: +49 201 85890960
or please select your preferred date
October 27, 2027 – November 13, 2027
Starting at €22,260 ; €17,975 per person
18 days/17 nights
Ocean Explorer (Max. Capacity: 138)
Ushuaia, Argentina Ushuaia, Argentina
Optional activities available for an additional fee: kayaking, paddling excursion, photography workshop
Up to 15% off new bookings +++ Limited availability +++
December 21, 2027 – January 7, 2028
Starting at €29,239 €27,459 per person
18 days/17 nights
World Voyager (Max. Capacity: 168)
Buenos Aires, Argentina Buenos Aires, Argentina
Optional activities available for an additional fee: kayaking, paddle excursion, stand-up paddleboarding
Up to 10% off new bookings +++ Limited availability +++
November 9, 2028 – November 26, 2028
Starting at €21,818 ; €17,144 per person
18 days/17 nights
Ocean Explorer (Max. Capacity: 138)
Ushuaia, Argentina Ushuaia, Argentina
Optional activities available for an additional fee: kayaking, paddling excursion, photography workshop
Up to 10% off new bookings +++ limited availability +++
January 12, 2029 – January 29, 2029
Starting at €28,621 ; €25,383 per person
18 days/17 nights
World Voyager (Max. Capacity: 168)
Buenos Aires, Argentina Buenos Aires, Argentina
Optional activities available for an additional fee: kayaking, paddle excursion, stand-up paddleboarding
Up to 10% off new bookings +++ Limited availability +++
Selected date
October 27, 2027 – November 13, 2027 (18 days/17 nights)
Ocean Explorer | South Georgia and Antarctic Peninsula: Penguin Safari

Triple Suite

Deluxe Veranda Forward

Porch Stateroom

Veranda Suite

Studio Single
Junior Suite
Premium Suite with two rooms on Deck 6 of the MS Ocean Explorer. Approx. 28 m². Inner bedroom with a double bed (convertible into two single beds); outer sitting area with a sofa bed and an activity table for two people. Floor-to-ceiling glass opens onto a balcony twice as wide. Private bathroom with bathtub, sink, and heated floors.
Occupancy: 1 to 3 people. Amenities: two TVs, infotainment system, air conditioning, safe, USB charging station. Laundry service included.

Studio Veranda Single

penthouse suite

Owner's Suite
cabin
options
| Kayaking (price per person) | ||
| Person(s) | 1 900,00 € | |
| Paddling excursion (price per person) | ||
| Person(s) | 370,00 € | |
| Photography workshop (price per person) | ||
| Person(s) | 1 410,00 € | |
personal data
By clicking on the "Request now" button, you agree to the Processing of your personal data to complete the reservation.
Summary
optional activities
Selected date
December 21, 2027 – January 7, 2028 (18 days/17 nights)
World Voyager | German-speaking | South Georgia and the Antarctic Peninsula: Penguin Safari

Infinity Suite

Veranda Suite

Superior Suite

Deluxe Suite

Owner's Suite
cabin
options
| Kayaking (price per person) | ||
| Person(s) | 1 900,00 € | |
| Paddling excursion (price per person) | ||
| Person(s) | 370,00 € | |
| Stand-up paddleboarding (price per person) | ||
| Person(s) | 280,00 € | |
personal data
By clicking on the "Request now" button, you agree to the Processing of your personal data to complete the reservation.
Summary
Optional activities
Selected date
November 9, 2028 – November 26, 2028 (18 days/17 nights)
Ocean Explorer | South Georgia and Antarctic Peninsula: Penguin Safari

Triple Suite

Deluxe Veranda Forward

Porch Stateroom

Veranda Suite

Studio Single

Studio Veranda Single

penthouse suite

Owner's Suite
cabin
options
| Kayaking (price per person) | ||
| Person(s) | 1 770,00 € | |
| Paddling excursion (price per person) | ||
| Person(s) | 350,00 € | |
| Photography workshop (price per person) | ||
| Person(s) | 1 410,00 € | |
personal data
By clicking on the "Request now" button, you agree to the Processing of your personal data to complete the reservation.
Summary
optional activities
Selected date
January 12, 2029 – January 29, 2029 (18 days/17 nights)
World Voyager | South Georgia and Antarctic Peninsula: Penguin Safari

Infinity Suite

Veranda Suite

Superior Suite

Deluxe Suite

Owner's Suite
cabin
options
| Kayaking (price per person) | ||
| Person(s) | 1 770,00 € | |
| Paddling excursion (price per person) | ||
| Person(s) | 350,00 € | |
| Stand-up paddleboarding (price per person) | ||
| Person(s) | 260,00 € | |
personal data
By clicking on the "Request now" button, you agree to the Processing of your personal data to complete the reservation.
Summary
optional activities
Information
Included services:
- Accommodation on board with daily housekeeping
- All meals, snacks, soft drinks, and juices on board throughout your trip. Please inform us of any dietary requirements as early as possible. Unfortunately, the ship's kitchens are unable to prepare kosher meals.
- Complimentary beer, standard wines, spirits, and cocktails during bar service hours and with dinner
- Free coffee, tea, and hot chocolate
- Guidance throughout the entire trip by our experienced expedition team, including landings and other activities
- An official expedition parka to take home with you
- All Zodiac transfers and trips according to the daily program
- All landings according to the daily program
- Formal and informal presentations by our expedition team and guest speakers according to schedule
- A photo diary documenting your expedition
- A pair of waterproof expedition boots, which can be borrowed for landings and Zodiac trips
- Hair dryers and bathrobes in every cabin
- All other service charges and port fees during the program
- Baggage handling on board the ship
- Group transfer upon arrival in Ushuaia from the airport to the hotel before the expedition on day 1
- One night's accommodation at a hotel in Ushuaia prior to the expedition, including breakfast (note: the number of guests per room corresponds to the cabin occupancy on the ship. Due to limited availability, travelers who reserve a suite on board will be accommodated in standard rooms at the hotel. Triple rooms may not be available).
- Group transfer from the hotel to the ship on the day of embarkation
- Group transfer upon disembarkation in Ushuaia from the ship to the local airport or luggage storage
- Free Wi-Fi service on one device, allowing you to browse the internet, send emails, post on social media, and use voice applications. (Premium packages are available for more data-intensive applications.)
- *Mandatory transfer package for trips aboard the MS World Voyager
- One night's accommodation at a hotel in Buenos Aires prior to the expedition, including breakfast (Note: The number of guests per room corresponds to the cabin occupancy on the ship. Due to limited availability, travelers who reserve a suite on board will be accommodated in standard rooms at the hotel. Triple rooms may not be available).
- Group transfer from the hotel in Buenos Aires to the airport
- Charter flight from Buenos Aires to Ushuaia
- Group transfer from Ushuaia Airport to the ship
Not included in the price:
- Other flights
- Passport and valid visa costs
- State arrival and departure taxes
- Meals, unless otherwise stated
- Luggage, cancellation, interruption, and health insurance – highly recommended
- Excess baggage fees on international flights
- Waterproof pants for Zodiac trips
- Laundry, bar, massage, and other personal expenses, unless otherwise specified
- Telephone and internet charges
- Voluntary tips at the end of the trip for expedition staff and crew
- Additional accommodation costs
Important:
- Language spoken on board: English
- English-speaking expedition team
- Onboard currency: US dollars and major credit cards
- Completing a questionnaire, medical certificate, cruise contract, and flight information form is mandatory.
- Rubber boots available for loan on board
- A doctor is on board
- Open bridge
- Laundry service available on board (for a fee).
- The route and final itinerary during the voyage will be decided on site by the expedition leader and captain based on ice and weather conditions, as well as opportunities for wildlife viewing. The itinerary described here is for illustrative purposes only.
- Proof of international health insurance with medical repatriation must be provided.
- The trip is not suitable for people with limited mobility.
- A heart for solo travelers: Share a cabin with travelers of the same gender and save on the single cabin supplement. Valid for Explorer triple rooms with twin beds and single beds, Explorer suites with twin or double beds, and Balcony suites with twin or double beds.
Your ship during the voyage

Your ship: The MS Ocean Explorer
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Your ship: The MS World Voyager
Click here for deck plans, cabin categories, facts & figures
> View here
Antarctic Penguin Safari South Georgia and Antarctic Peninsula Grytviken South Georgia David Merron
Grytviken on South Georgia
Antarctica-King penguin colony-South Georgia-Quark Expeditions-David Merron
King penguin colony on South Georgia
Antarctic Penguin Safari South Georgia and Antarctic Peninsula Gentoo Penguins David Merron
Rope penguins
Antarctic Penguin Safari South Georgia and Antarctic Peninsula Elephant Seal St. Andrews Bay Acacia Johnson
Sea elephant taking a nap
Antarctic Penguin Safari South Georgia and Antarctic Peninsula Fur Seals Deception Island SamEdmonds
Fur seals on Deception Island
Antarctic Penguin Safari South Georgia and Antarctic Peninsula Crabeater Acacia Johnson
Bearded seals chill out on ice floes
Antarctic Penguin Safari South Georgia and Antarctic Peninsula Lemaire Channel Acacia Johnson
Photographing Antarctic landscapes
Antarctic Penguin Safari South Georgia and Antarctic Peninsula Kayaking David Merron
Kayaking past penguins
Antarctic Penguin Safari South Georgia and Antarctic Peninsula Stand-up Paddleboarding MichelleSole
Stand-up paddleboarding
Antarctic Penguin Safari South Georgia and Antarctic Peninsula Zodiac Excursion David Merron
Zodiac trip
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