The Southern Orkney Islands

Geographically speaking, the four islands of the South Orkney Archipelago are located in the Nova Scotia Sea, just beyond the Antarctic Convergence – and thus in Antarctica. They are still 1,000 nautical miles (approx. 600 kilometers northeast) away from the Antarctic Peninsula.

85% of the surface consists of glaciers—the perfect home for penguins and seals. More than 1,200 species are said to live here. That's more than on the Galápagos Islands!

This archipelago became famous thanks to polar explorer Ernest Shackleton and his dramatic rescue mission. Landings in this inhospitable region are difficult and cannot be guaranteed.

If weather conditions permit, you can visit the Argentine research station "Orcadas. " The friendly station staff will show you how people live and work here.

Most trips that stop at the Orkney Islands come from the Falkland Islands and South Georgia route. When I say "most," that's not entirely true. Very few trips visit the South Orkney Islands. You can easily see this from the few trips shown below.

Sample itinerary for the Southern Orkney Islands

(c) Jan Bryde | Oceanwide Expeditions + Route: (c) Oceanwide Expeditions