Classic South Georgia, Falklands & Antarctica – MV Ushuaia, Oct. 2024

Classic South Georgia, Falklands & Antarctica – MV Ushuaia, Oct. 2024

Trip Summary

Dates: Oct 13, 2024 – Nov 3, 2024
Duration: 22 Days
Ship: Ushuaia
Starting at $9,990.00View Prices

About the Falkland Islands, South Georgia and Antarctic Peninsula Itinerary

Explore the world’s seventh continent on the Antarctic Peninsula by ship, Zodiac and on foot. Learn about Antarctica’s unique geology, history and wildlife with an expert team of lecturers. See the incredible wildlife of South Georgia, often referred to as ‘the Galapagos of the South’. This includes more than 30 species of breeding birds, including […]

Itinerary Map

Pricing Information

$9,990 - Standard Triple Plus
$10,990 - Standard Twin Semi-Private
$14,130 - Standard Plus Twin-Private
$16,800 - Premier Twin Private
$20,180 - Premier Single Private
$17,770 - Superior Twin Private
$18,670 - Suites

About the Falkland Islands, South Georgia and Antarctic Peninsula Itinerary

  • Explore the world’s seventh continent on the Antarctic Peninsula by ship, Zodiac and on foot.
  • Learn about Antarctica’s unique geology, history and wildlife with an expert team of lecturers.
  • See the incredible wildlife of South Georgia, often referred to as ‘the Galapagos of the South’. This includes more than 30 species of breeding birds, including four species of Penguin.
  • Follow in the footsteps of Sir Ernest Shackleton’s perilous voyages on South Georgia and pause for a moment at his graveside.
  • Explore the quaint, British town of Port Stanley in the Falkland Islands.
  • On board lecturers and educational presentations from Polar Specialists.
* Itineraries on our website are intended only as a guide and you should consult our team for detailed itineraries on specific voyages.

Detailed Itinerary

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Day 1: Ushuaia, Argentina


Your gateway for this expedition is Ushuaia, Argentina. Nestled within the Tierra del Fuego archipelago, Ushuaia offers you a small-town feel but has many shops, museums, cafes and restaurants to enjoy before your voyage. The nearby national park and Martial Glacier are must-sees and offer plenty of hiking and outdoor activities.


Day 2: Embarkation


As you embark, the anticipation and excitement grows. Trade your land legs for sea legs, meet and greet your fellow travelers, Expedition Team and get acquainted with your ship. As every Antarctic adventure presents new opportunities and experiences, Embarkation day is just as exciting for your Expedition Team as it is for you. They’re onboard to ensure your comfort and safety, as well as help make your wildlife dreams come true.


Day 3: At Sea


There are many activities to keep you engaged while at sea. Learn to identify seabirds that glide alongside the ship or attend illustrated presentations by your Expedition Team. You will be prepped on procedures for your Zodiac cruises and shore landings as well as be given important biodiversity information for protecting the remote places.


Days 4-5: Falkland Islands (Islas Malvinas)


Upon arrival in this archipelago your cameras will get their first real workout capturing the abundant wildlife and rugged feel of these remote islands. The Falkland archipelago contains two main islands – East and West, which you will explore by Zodiac excursions and daily landings.

One landing that will surely stick out in your memory is at Port Stanley. This unique British outpost has a ramshackle charm to it. The largest settlement in the Falklands, you’ll spend your day here visiting churches, museums, wandering around town and perhaps mingling with locals at a typical British pub.

In terms of wildlife, the archipelago is home to a variety of penguin species, including Magellanic, Gentoo and Rockhopper. If lucky, you may spot King Penguins here as well! Also expect to see Black-browed Albatross and many other bird species around the islands, including an opportunity to see the two endemic species; Cobb’s Wren and the Falklands flightless steamer duck. Your team of lecturers and specialists will be sure to educate you on the local flora and fauna so that you get the most of a memorable time in the Falklands.


Days 6-7: At Sea


The lecture series and wildlife spotting will continue on the way to South Georgia as you prepare to visit the ‘Galapagos of the Polar regions.’


Days 8-10: South Georgia


This remote outpost has long been a center for exploratory expeditions and commercial exploitation. Many of first European inhabitants arrived to the island to hunt whales and elephant seals. Populations were once decimated, but thankfully populations have rebounded largely because whaling and sealing in South Georgia no longer exist. You will see many remnants of these past activities; including several whaling stations and other abandoned outposts.

One significant and historic site that will be of interest is the grave of the great explorer, Sir Ernest Shackleton. You can visit his grave at the settlement of Grytviken, which is also home to an old whaling station, the museum and a small gift shop and church and a research station of approximately 20 scientists and support personnel.

While South Georgia’s history is an important attraction to the islands, it is the wildlife on South Georgia that you and your shipmates will likely find the most captivating. Often referred to as the Galapagos of the Poles, South Georgia contains an exceptional quantity of wildlife. Each landing you make on South Georgia will open your eyes to a new wonder of wildlife. One day you may see rookeries with thousands of King Penguins waddling on the beach. Another day could take you to a beach with jousting elephant or fur seal beachmasters fighting to retain their harems. The grasses, mountains and beaches of South Georgia all play an important role in the breeding and survival of different species, something that your Expedition Team will be pleased to tell you about during your excursions on this impressive and unique island.


Days 11-12: At Sea

Say goodbye to the king penguins, as your next destination is Antarctica! Your days at sea are filled with seminars from your Expedition Team, who will prepare you for the wildlife that will be greeting you upon your arrival in Antarctica. In between presentations, spend time chatting with your shipmates over a drink at the bar.


Days 13-16: Antarctic Peninsula and South Shetland Islands


The most common reaction to arriving at the white continent is a sense of reverence and awe. The experience is hard to put into words, as few places are as untouched, unique and enduring as Antarctica. You will discover that Antarctica is a land of extremes. At one moment you’ll be overcome with a feeling of complete desolation and silence, at the next moment you’ll be inspired by nature as a calving glacier crashes into the brilliant blue sea or a penguin comes waddling by to inspect your footwear.

Guided hikes with the Expedition Team will have you trekking up a glacier, visiting a research station, or consorting with penguin colonies. Chinstrap, Gentoo and Adélie penguins are found here, along with Fur, Weddell, Crabeater and Leopard Seals. Curious whales, such as Minkes, are often attracted to Zodiacs as well, giving you a chance to get within reaching distance of these majestic animals. Each day and each landing will present a new collection of creatures to entertain you and keep your camera shutter busy.

As exciting as the Zodiac excursions and landings are, perhaps you’ll treat yourself to an extra special Antarctic experience by partaking in a kayaking excursion.


Days 17-18: Drake Passage


After more than two weeks of endless wildlife encounters, your journey home begins. Crossing the Drake Passage is your unofficial rite of passage, which will complete your Antarctic adventure. Enjoy some final moments mingling with your fellow travelers. The noisy, busy, populated world awaits your return, so savor the silence of the sea as long as you can.


Days 19: Ushuaia

After breakfast aboard the ship, it is time to part ways and say goodbye to your Expedition Team. A transfer to the airport for your homeward flight will be offered.


Welcome Aboard the Ushuaia


Originally built for the United States agency NOAA (National Oceanographic & Atmospheric Administration), the ice-strengthened vessel Ushuaia is designed for polar travel and Antarctica expeditions. This small cruise ship was refurbished in 2014 to accommodate a maximum of 88 passengers in 44 comfortable cabins and suites. Ushuaia is very well laid out and provides ample deck space and an open bridge policy. The full complement of inflatable landing craft ensures superb landings and wildlife viewing opportunities on the otherwise inaccessible coastline. All cabins include a desk and ample storage space. Public areas feature a large dining room (one sitting), an observation lounge and bar, a conference room with modern multimedia equipment, a well-stocked library, a changing room and a small infirmary.

Technical Specs

  • Passenger Capacity: 88 (maximum)
  • Crew & Staff: 38
  • Length: 84.7 meters
  • Breadth: 5.48 meters
  • Gross tonnage: 2,923
  • Cruising Speed: 12 knots
  • Max Speed: 14 knots
  • Zodiacs: 7
  • Electrical outlets: 110 v
  • Ice Class: 1C
  • Shipyard: Toledo, Ohio

Cabins & Amenities

All cabins include a desk and ample storage space. Public areas feature a large dining room (one sitting), an observation lounge and bar, a conference room with modern multimedia equipment, a well-stocked library, a changing room and a small infirmary.

  • Four Decks
  • Dining Room (one open seating)
  • Observation Lounge / Lecture Room, Bar & Library
  • Panorama Deck
  • Gift Shop
  • Infirmary
  • Changing Room
  • Zodiacs

Notes

  • Dates do NOT include one day prior to departure
  • All expedition rates are per person in US dollars, based on shared occupancy.
  • Standard twins are available for single occupancy at 1.5 times the share price.
  • Family special for both the 2019-20 and 2020-21 seasons: a child (under 16 years) accompanied by two adults travels free of charge in a triple Superior cabin or a triple Suite.

Book now for early bird discounts on the 2024-25 season

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