Falkland Islands - South Georgia - Antarctic Peninsula | HDS27-27

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Title

Falkland Islands - South Georgia - Antarctica

Start – End

Tripcode

HDS27-27

Language

English

Ship

m/v Hondius

Embarkation / Disembarkation

Ushuaia - Ushuaia

Nights / Days

18 nights

More about

Antarctica cruises

Antarctic Peninsula cruises

Falkland Islands cruises

South Georgia cruises

Cabins & Prices

Group request For reservations with more than 15 guests you can contact us directly

Itinerary

Voyage overview

This Falkland Islands, South Georgia, and Antarctic Peninsula cruise is an animal-lover’s dream come true. The expedition explores one of the last untamed areas on Earth – a land of ruggedly beautiful landscapes and amazingly varied wildlife.

Day 1: End of the world, start of a journey

Your voyage begins where the world drops off. Ushuaia, Argentina, reputed to be the southernmost city on the planet, is located on the far southern tip of South America. Starting in the afternoon, you embark from this small resort town on Tierra del Fuego, nicknamed “The End of the World,” and sail the mountain-fringed Beagle Channel for the remainder of the evening.

Day 2: The winged life of the westerlies

Several species of albatross follow the vessel into the westerlies, along with storm petrels, shearwaters, and diving petrels.

Day 3: Finding the Falklands

The Falkland Islands offer an abundance of wildlife that is easily approachable, though caution is always advised. These islands are largely unknown gems, the site of a 1982 war between the UK and Argentina. Not only do various species of bird live here, but chances are great you’ll see both Peale’s dolphins and Commerson’s dolphins in the surrounding waters.

During this segment of the voyage, you may visit the following sites:

Carcass Island – Despite its name, this island is pleasantly rodent-free and hence bounteous with birdlife and many endemic species. Anything from breeding Magellanic penguins and gentoos to numerous waders and passerine birds (including Cobb’s wrens and tussock-birds) live here.

Saunders Island – On Saunders Island you can see the black-browed albatross and its sometimes-clumsy landings, along with breeding imperial shags and rockhopper penguins. King penguins, Magellanic penguins, and gentoos are also found here.

Day 4: The seat of Falklands culture

The capital of the Falklands and center of its culture, Port Stanley has some Victorian-era charm: colorful houses, well-tended gardens, and English-style pubs are all to be found here. You can also see several century-old clipper ships nearby, silent witnesses to the hardships of 19th century sailors. The small but interesting museum is also worth a visit, covering the early days of settlement up to the Falklands War. Approximately 2,100 people live in Port Stanley. Admission to the museum is included.

Day 5 - 6: Once more to the sea

En route to South Georgia, you now cross the Antarctic Convergence. The temperature cools considerably within the space of a few hours, and nutritious water rises to the surface of the sea due to colliding water columns. This phenomenon attracts a multitude of seabirds near the ship, including several species of albatross, shearwaters, petrels, prions, and skuas.

Day 7 - 10: South Georgia Journey

Today you arrive at the first South Georgia activity site. Please keep in mind that weather conditions in this area can be challenging, largely dictating the program.

Over the next several days, you have a chance to visit the following sites:

Fortuna Bay – A beautiful outwash plain from Fortuna Glacier is home to a large number of king penguins and seals. Here you may also have the chance to follow the final leg of Shackleton’s route to the abandoned whaling village of Stromness. This path cuts across the mountain pass beyond Shackleton’s Waterfall, and as the terrain is partly swampy, be prepared to cross a few small streams.

Salisbury Plain, St. Andrews Bay, Gold Harbour – These sites not only house the three largest king penguin colonies in South Georgia, they’re also three of the world’s largest breeding beaches for Antarctic fur seals. Literally millions breed on South Georgia during December and January. Only during the mid-season do they peak in their breeding cycle. There will be some young adult Elephant seals as well as this seasons ‘Weaner’s; the young Elephant Seals that have been left to fend for themselves. Watch your step and stay cool when walking the beaches during this time.

Grytviken – In this abandoned whaling station, king penguins walk the streets and elephant seals lie around like they own the place – because they basically do. Here you might be able to see the South Georgia Museum as well as Shackleton’s grave.

In the afternoon of day 10 and depending on the conditions, we will start sailing southwards in the direction of the South Orkney Islands.

Day 11: Southward bound

There may be sea ice on this route, and at the edge of the ice some south polar skuas and snow petrels could join the other seabirds trailing the vessel south.

Day 12: The scenic vistas of South Orkney

Depending on the conditions, you might visit Orcadas Base, an Argentine scientific station on Laurie Island in the South Orkney archipelago. The personnel here will happily show you their facility, where you can enjoy expansive views of the surrounding glaciers. If a visit isn’t possible, you may instead land in Coronation Island’s Shingle Cove.

Day 13 - 14: Entering the Antarctic

Enormous icebergs and a fair chance of fin whale sightings ensure there’s never a dull moment on this last sea voyage south. Also, your best chance to spot Antarctic petrels is here. Depending on conditions, we aim to begin activities the afternoon of day 14.

Day 15 - 16: Awe-inspiring Antarctica

If the ice conditions permit, you now sail into the Weddell Sea. Here colossal tabular icebergs herald your arrival to the eastern side of the Antarctic Peninsula. Paulet Island, with its large population of Adélie penguins, is a possible stop. You might also visit Brown Bluff, located in the ice-clogged Antarctic Sound, where you could get the chance to set foot on the Antarctic Continent itself.

If conditions aren’t favorable to enter the Weddell Sea from the east, the ship will set course for Elephant Island and head into the Bransfield Strait, between the South Shetland Islands and the Antarctic Peninsula. Here you can attempt to access the Antarctic Sound from the northwest.

The breathtaking scenery continues in the Bransfield Straight and, if conditions allow further South in the Gerlache Strait. Conditions on the Drake Passage determine the exact time of departure.

Day 17 - 18: Familiar seas, familiar friends

Your return voyage is far from lonely. While crossing the Drake, you’re again greeted by the vast array of seabirds remembered from the passage south. But they seem a little more familiar to you now, and you to them.

Day 19: There and back again

Every adventure, no matter how grand, must eventually come to an end. It’s now time to disembark in Ushuaia, but with memories that will accompany you wherever your next adventure lies.

PLEASE NOTE:

All itineraries are for guidance only. Programs may vary depending on ice, weather, and wildlife conditions. Landings are subject to site availabilities, permissions, and environmental concerns per IAATO regulations. Official sailing plans and landing slots are scheduled with IAATO prior to the start of the season, but the expedition leader determines the final plan. Flexibility is paramount for expedition cruises. The average cruising speed for our vessel is 10.5 knots.

Included in this voyage

Voyage aboard the indicated vessel as indicated in the itinerary.
All meals throughout the voyage aboard the ship including snacks, coffee and tea.
All shore excursions and activities throughout the voyage by Zodiac.
Program of lectures by noted naturalists and leadership by experienced expedition staff.
Complimentary use of waterproof neoprene expedition muck boots and snowshoes.
Luggage transfer from pick-up point to the vessel on the day of embarkation, in Ushuaia.
Pre-scheduled group transfer from the vessel to the airport in Ushuaia (directly after disembarkation).
All miscellaneous service taxes and port charges throughout the programme.
Comprehensive pre-departure material.
Complimentary Wi-Fi connectivity. All guests receive 1.5 GB of data usage per day, which resets every 24 hours.
Complimentary Dopper water bottle for use during and after your expedition.

Excluded from this voyage

Any airfare, whether on scheduled or charter flights.
Pre- and post- land arrangements.
Passport and visa expenses.
Government arrival and departure taxes.
Meals ashore.
Baggage, cancellation and personal insurance (which is strongly recommended).
Excess baggage charges and all items of a personal nature such as laundry, bar, beverage charges and telecommunication charges.
The customary gratuity at the end of the voyages for stewards and other service personnel aboard (guidelines will be provided).

Highlights you might experience

Zodiac Cruising & Shore Program

By Zodiac you will explore the polar world, getting up close to icebergs, glaciers, and iconic wildlife

Flora and fauna of the Falkland Islands

Lying between the tundra climate zone and the sub-Antarctic, these verdant islands have many of the same ecological traits as Patagonia

Saunders Island

One of the largest islands in the Falklands, Saunders Island lies in the northwest of the archipelago and has been farmed since 1948

Carcass Island

Contrary to what its name may suggest, Carcass Island is a lively place for viewing breeding Magellanic and gentoo penguins

Gold Harbour

Thousands of king penguins, hundreds of gentoos, and loads of elephant seals share this awesomely scenic South Georgia bay

Salisbury Plain

Known for its colossal king penguin colony, Salisbury Plain is a longstanding favorite in our South Georgia expeditions

Antarctic Fur Seal

Once hunted nearly into extinction, these pointy-eared polar swimmers are the comeback queens and kings of the Antarctic

Adelie Penguin

These gallant-fighting, deep-diving namesakes of the French-claimed Antarctic Adélie Land are among the four penguin species on mainland Antarctica

King Penguin

Second in size only to the emperor penguin, these colorful divers look so different than their own chicks that they were once thought to be a different species

Leopard Seal

These "slender-clawed water workers" spend much of their lives submerged, though it's known they are the only member of their family to consume other seals

Magellanic Penguin

These timid feather-shedders are named after the famed Portuguese explorer whose crew spotted them in 1520

Striated Caracara

These "Johnny Rooks" have a penchant for stealing red objects, and prefer to settle on islands populated by seals and seabirds in Tierra del Fuego and the Falklands

What Our Travelers Say

Since we curate unique itineraries for every sailing, these reviews reflect similar past cruises. They illustrate the general atmosphere and quality standards, though specific activities and wildlife encounters will vary.

once in a lifetime

by dan mihai tarcea

Antarctica

i dream about this trip allmost 10 years, i save money for my lifetime experience and if you still dream and never give up it happends. it was 19 days of my greatest experience and i live any seconds with open heart.

One of the Lifetime experience

by Elene Tan

Antarctica

One of the best cruise and trip I join so far. The expedition team really go way beyond, very passionate about their job. The activities very well organized. Even the lecture was very informative. I definitely will join this expedition again in future.

Antarctica Discovery & Learning Voyage

by Rolf Günther

Antarctica

The Antarctica Discovery & Learning voyage aboard the MS Hondius in November was outstanding. The crew and expedition guides demonstrated excellent background knowledge, shared with clarity, enthusiasm, and professionalism. All activities — landings, Zodiac operations, and kayaking — were conducted confidently and safely, always leaving participants feeling well prepared and in expert hands. Cleanliness and hygiene on board were excellent, contributing to a very comfortable expedition environment. Beyond the superb organization, the voyage offered additional unforgettable natural impressions. In particular, entering the icy Antarctic waters at Stony Point was a truly fantastic and intense experience — a rare moment of immersion that created a deep and lasting connection with this extraordinary environment. A superbly executed expedition voyage that truly lives up to its promise of Discovery & Learning.

Outstanding experience

by Simone Bianca Schuft

Antarctica

That was such a wonderful and inspiring expedition, with such a lot of wildlife sightings and beautiful, breathtaking scenery. The kayak outings had been great, sitting there outside with all the stillness around, beautiful views and maybe some animal noises around. The places we stopped were great, and gave us a good insight into Antarctica. The team was amazing, all as much as excited to go there as we have been, and they did all such a great job in making this an outstanding exoperience.

Atlantic Odyssey

by Ken Robinson

Antarctica

The 33 day voyage certainly met expectations with external activities, most lectures and "hotel" services excellent. Passengers should understand that there is little opportunity for exercise on the Hondius. As suggestions for a 5-star rating: - organised guiding for bird watching on board - even if for set periods only - QA for some weak lectures, perhaps attended by other staff who could review content for future voyages

A 'must do' expedition for birders and wildlife lovers

by Mike Hunter

Antarctica

The Atlantic Odyssey, from Ushuaia to Cape Verde, is, for birders, one of the 'must do' expeditions. It's just over a month long but seawatching between islands is often good, and when it isn't, the quality of on-board presentations is outstanding. We were able to access all.islands and see all key bird species with just one exception. Expedition leader was excellent, as was the entire expedition team, in maximising off-ship activities. Food, cabins and WiFi all very good. Overall, an excellent expedition which I thoroughly enjoyed. I can't wait to do Svalbard with Oceanwide soon!

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m/v Hondius

Hondius is the world’s first-registered Polar Class 6 vessel and was built from the ground up for expedition cruising.

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Cabins & Prices

Quadruple Porthole

Cabin Details

Cabin size between 15,3 m² and 16 m²
2 portholes
2 upper & lower berths
Small sofa
Private shower & toilet
Flatscreen TV
Desk & chair
Telephone and WiFi (supplemented)
Hair dryer
Cabinet
Safe deposit box
Wardrobe
This cabin is suitable for families traveling with children, or passengers who do not require a twin or more luxurious cabin

Complete cabin

69600 USD

Price for the complete cabin, fully occupied.

Sharing berth

17400 USD

Share your cabin with others for the best price.

Triple Porthole

Sold out Waitlist (non-obligatory)

Cabin Details

Cabin size between 15,9 m² and 16 m²
2 portholes
1 upper berth & 2 lower berths
Small sofa
Private shower & toilet
Flatscreen TV
Desk & chair
Telephone and WiFi (supplemented)
Hair dryer
Cabinet
Safe deposit box
Wardrobe
This cabin is suitable for families traveling with children, or passengers who do not require a twin or more luxurious cabin

Complete cabin

58500 USD

Price for the complete cabin, fully occupied.

Request

Sharing berth

19500 USD

Share your cabin with others for the best price.

Request

Twin Porthole

Cabin Details

Cabin size between 13,3 m² and 16 m²
2 portholes
2 single beds
Small sofa
Private shower & toilet
Flatscreen TV
Desk & chair
Telephone and WiFi (supplemented)
Hair dryer
Cabinet
Safe deposit box
Wardrobe
Please note that all cabins will not necessarily have the same layout and surface area, nor will they be identical to the examples used in the photos

Complete cabin

42900 USD

Price for the complete cabin, fully occupied.

Single cabin

36465 USD

Price for the complete cabin occupied by 1 person (1.7x the shared rate).

Sharing berth

21450 USD

Share your cabin with others for the best price.

Twin Window

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Cabin Details

Cabin size between 12,1 m² and 14,3 m²
1 window
2 single beds
Small sofa
Private shower & toilet
Flatscreen TV
Desk & chair
Telephone and WiFi (supplemented)
Hair dryer
Cabinet
Safe deposit box
Wardrobe
Please be aware that the view from some windows might be partially obstructed due to the design requirements of the ship
Please note that all cabins will not necessarily have the same layout and surface area, nor will they be identical to the examples used in the photos