The ultimate Southern Ocean experience, this expedition takes you into majestically spectacular wildness. Not even the vast migrations of Africa can rival the awesomeness of seeing a king penguin colony of tens of thousands individuals stretching as far as the eye can see. Or albatross colonies that fill the windward edges of the remote islands they call home. You’ll have other rare sightings here too: massive, in both senses of the word, herds of elephant seals: and a wandering albatross stretching its 11-foot wings. It’s the impossible beauty of Antarctica exponentially increased by unimaginable numbers of animals. A not-be-missed polar experience, for those with the luxury of time.
For most travelers, visiting Antarctica is a once-in-a-lifetime experience. So, for those with the luxury of time, optimizing your time and interest by including South Georgia and the Falklands makes sense. And makes for a genuine experience-of-a-lifetime. This voyage has it all.
- The impossible beauty of Antarctic ice: tabular bergs, the haunting Lemaire Channel
- Massive wildlife spectacles in South Georgia and the Falklands
- Three distinct regions to experience
- Superlative photos ops and on-board photo assistance
- Lindblad-National Geographic expedition team to illuminate it all
Day 1: Overnight Hotel in Santiago – Guests traveling aboard National Geographic Orionarrive today in Santiago. We check in to the fine Ritz Carlton Hotel, centrally located in Santiago, and have the morning to relax. Santiago is nearly surrounded by the Andes, which form an inspiring backdrop to our afternoon guided overview of this vibrant city. We explore the Plaza de Armas, the main square, and nearby Presidential Palace, enjoying wonderful views from the many hills that dot the city. (L)
Day 2: Fly to Ushuaia, Argentina/Embark Ship – Today we fly by private charter flight to Ushuaia, Argentina. Guests traveling aboard National Geographic Orion will fly from Santiago, Chile to Ushuaia to embark the Orion. The morning’s LAN charter flight offers some rare views as we fly over the vividly rugged terrain of Patagonia before landing in Ushuaia, the southernmost city in the world. We’ll have lunch aboard a catamaran cruise on the scenic Beagle Channel before embarking our ship. (B,L,D)
Day 3: At Sea – Awake well into our journey across the Drake Passage—a milestone in any adventurer’s personal travel history—with time to hear talks preparing you for the exciting days ahead. (B,L,D)
Day 4 – 9: Antarctica – With long hours of daylight, we make the most of our days exploring the Antarctic Peninsula and surrounding islands. Our schedule is flexible, allowing us to take advantage of the unexpected. We’ll sail through the incomparable Lemaire Channel and land on the “White Continent,” exploring via Zodiac, kayak and on foot, and using our arsenal of tools for exploration. (B,L,D)
Day 10 – 11: At Sea – As we voyage, head up to the Bridge to watch for icebergs and observe expert navigation at work as our skilled Captain and officers sail these historic waters. There’ll also be time to enjoy a massage in the wellness center, workout in the gym, and browse in the library. Each day our naturalists offer talks that add depth to your experience. (B,L,D)
Day 12 – 16: South Georgia Island – This is the final resting place for explorer Sir Ernest Shackleton and we’ll hoist a toast at his gravesite. Teeming wildlife and breathtaking scenery greet our ship. Hundreds of Antarctic fur seals are on hand as our Zodiacs make landfall. And at a vast penguin colony you’ll be surrounded by tens of thousands of king penguins! (B,L,D)
Day 17 – 18: At Sea – Whales beneath, birds above, as you head to legendary South Georgia Island. Our naturalists will prepare us for the exciting days ahead with presentations on the wildlife of South Georgia, and, of course, the inspiring story of Ernest Shackleton and the Endurance. (B,L,D)
Day 19 – 20: Falkland Islands – The Falklands boast the largest albatross colony in the world, irresistible Magellanic penguins in their burrows amid the green tussock grass and herds of enormous elephant seals. Stroll the photogenic tin-roofed, Victorian-style houses of Port Stanley. Visit the Anglican Cathedral with its organic archway of whalebones, and the Falkland Islands Museum. (B,L,D)
Day 21: At Sea – As we sail back to Ushuaia, an albatross or two may join the escort of seabirds that cross our bow. There’s time to share photos with the onboard National Geographic photographer, catch up on the book you haven’t had a minute to read, and write emails home, saying “don’t want this to end.” (B,L,D)
Day 22: Disembark Ushuaia/Fly to Santiago/Home – After breakfast, we disembark in Ushuaia with some time to explore before proceeding to the airport for our LAN charter flight (guests on Orion fly Ushuaia to Santiago.) Please confirm departure and arrival cities with an Expedition Specialist before booking your flights. (Day 22: B,L)