Experience vast penguin rookeries and seal colonies on this awe-inspiring voyage to Antarctica, South Georgia, and the Falkland Islands. This 21-day voyage illuminates Ernest Shackleton’s legend and recounts his courageous exploration of Antarctica. You’ll visit historical sites of past explorers, as well as Shackleton’s final resting place – the wildlife-rich island of South Georgia. Antarctica is beyond comprehension and sure to amaze any traveller seeking a true adventure to the world’s most remote wilderness.
ITINERARY
Day 1: Ushuaia — Arrive in Ushuaia at any time. Arrival transfer included. Enjoy the sights and sounds of the world’s most southerly city.
Day 2: Ushuaia/Beagle Channel — Enjoy a free morning in Ushuaia. Do any last minute shopping, explore the town, or visit the surrounding countryside. Embarkation on the G Expedition begins in the afternoon at the port in Ushuaia. Enjoy the evening sailing through the Beagle Channel.
Day 3: Beagle Channel/Falkland Islands (Islas Malvinas) — As the G Expedition makes passage east, become acquainted with the ship. Begin lectures and information sessions about the extraordinary human and natural history of the Antarctic region.
Days 4–5: Falkland Islands (Islas Malvinas)/Southern Ocean — The Falkland Islands provide a rare opportunity to witness the biological diversity and extraordinary scenery of the southern islands. Penguins are abundant here, and the Falklands have the largest black-browed albatross colony in the world. In Stanley, meet the hardy local inhabitants whose colourful houses provide contrast to the long, dark winters.
Days 6–7: Southern Ocean/South Georgia — Sailing east, set course for South Georgia. Days at sea are filled with lectures to prepare for landings. Watch for the many whales that inhabit these waters.
Days 8–11: South Georgia/Scotia Sea — Home to many interesting sights (including the grave of polar explorer Ernest Shackleton), South Georgia has several former whaling stations and boasts plenty of wildlife. Visiting a huge colony of king penguins is a major highlight of this part of the journey. Weather permitting, spend three full days exploring the island.
Days 12–13: Scotia Sea/Tierra de O’Higgins, Península — Sail for two days, retracing Shackleton’s route backwards on course towards Elephant Island and the Antarctic Peninsula.
Days 14–18: Tierra de O’Higgins, Península/Drake Passage — Experience some of the most unique wildlife and awe-inspiring scenery in the world while setting foot on the Antarctic continent. Attempt two shore landings per day (weather permitting), and encounter Gentoo, Chinstrap, and Adélie penguin rookeries; Weddell, crabeater, and leopard seals; and orca, humpback, and minke whales in the cold Antarctic waters. The peninsula also has a remarkable human history.
Days 19–20: Drake Passage/Ushuaia — Reflect on a memorable adventure and take in some final lectures en route back to Ushuaia. Keep a careful lookout for a last chance to spot whales.
Day 21: Ushuaia — Disembark in the morning.
Please note: Specific sites visited will depend on ice and weather conditions, the planned itinerary will be updated at the time of final preparations as well as throughout the voyage in order to take advantage of favourable conditions.