Falklands, South Georgia and Antarctic Peninsula - M/V Ushuaia

22 days
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Small Group Tour
Experience the outstanding birdlife of the Falkland Islands. Marvel at the vast King penguin rookeries of South Georgia, before experiencing one of the most spectacular wilderness areas on earth. Antarctica has a remarkable collection of wildlife; snow-capped mountains and blue icebergs; penguins, whales and a rich diversity of birdlife - all of which await y...
19%
$14,453
From$11,750
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Overview

Trip type
Small Group Tour
Lodging level
Premium - 4 star
Physical level
Easy

Highlights

    • Antarctic Peninsula - explore the small islands of the peninsula by zodiac and on foot
    • King Penguin rookeries 100,000 strong - experience the stunning wildlife spectacle on Salisbury Plain
    • Antarctic wilderness - enjoy the freedom of being in this vast, ice-sculpted, wilderness
    • Breathtaking scenery - enjoy the views from the bridge or from the outer decks of your vessel
    • Expedition staff - be accompanied by expert lecturers and guides on shore

What's this trip about?

    Experience the outstanding birdlife of the Falkland Islands. Marvel at the vast King penguin rookeries of South Georgia, before experiencing one of the most spectacular wilderness areas on earth. Antarctica has a remarkable collection of wildlife; snow-capped mountains and blue icebergs; penguins, whales and a rich diversity of birdlife - all of which await you on an exploratory journey of the Great White Continent. King Penguin rookeries 100,000 strong - experience the stunning wildlife spectacle on Salisbury Plain Antarctic wilderness - enjoy the freedom of being in this vast, ice-sculpted, wilderness Breathtaking scenery - enjoy the views from the bridge or from the outer decks of your vessel Antarctic Peninsula - explore the small islands of the peninsula by zodiac and on foot

Details

Itinerary focusOff the Beaten Path
Group sizeSmall Group - max of 20 people
Age range16 to 85 years
Flights and transportN/A
Start CityUshuaia
End CityUshuaia

Travel Themes

  • Cultural
  • Hiking & Walking
  • National Parks
  • Nature & Wildlife
  • Relaxing Retreats
  • Small Ship Cruise

Destinations

  • South America
  • Argentina
  • Falkland Islands (Malvinas)
  • Asia
  • Antarctica

Attractions

  • Antarctic Peninsula
  • Georgia
  • Salisbury
  • Shetland Islands
  • South Shetland Islands
  • Ushuaia

Activities

  • Hiking
  • Wildlife viewing

Itinerary

Day 1 Tour starts in Ushuaia

You will board the MV Ushuaia in the afternoon. After settling into your cabins, you will be introduced to the crew and expedition staff with a welcome drink on board. There will be plenty of time to get to know your fellow shipmates, as we set sail towards the western Falkland Islands known for their rugged beauty and wealth of seabirds and waterfowl.

Meals Provided : Dinner

Day 2 At Sea

The open bridge policy on board allows you to join the officers on the bridge and learn about navigation, watch for marine life and enjoy the views of the open ocean. These waters are also home to an interesting group of seabirds, which often ride the currents created...

Day 3 Western Falkland Islands

With favorable conditions, the ship's lecturers and naturalists will accompany you on your first excursion. On the western coast you might visit the following islands: West Point Island West Point Island lies off the most north-westerly point of mainland West F...

Day 4 Eastern Falkland Islands

In the morning hours we will have time to explore the quaint little town of Stanley and its wonderful museum, souvenir shops and pubs. For those who are more interested in the outstanding wildlife, you do not even have to leave town to enjoy it - Southern Giant Petrel...

Day 5 At Sea

An extensive lecture program will be offered during the days at sea.

Meals Provided : Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

Day 6 At Sea

Expert naturalists share their knowledge of the wildlife and unique ecosystems we will encounter throughout our voyage. South Georgia is widely regarded as one of the most beautiful and inspiring places on earth, with more wildlife than virtually anywhere else on the planet.

Meals Provided : Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

Day 7 At Sea, arriing into South Georgia

After more time at sea, at last, South Georgia comes into sight ! Though extremely isolated, it has amazing scenery ranging from high mountains and mighty glaciers; to deep fjords and low-lying grassland. If the weather is favorable, we would aim to visit one of the ...

Day 8 South Gerogia

Our exact itinerary will depend on local land and sea conditions but the following destinations are among those that we would like to explore:- Salisbury Plain, Prion Island, Grytviken, Godthul, St Andrews Bay, Cooper Bay and Drygalski Fjord.

Meals Provided : Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

Day 9 South Georgia

You will have five full days to enjoy the delights of this isolated island, rich in history and with an abundance of wildlife.

Meals Provided : Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

Day 10 South Georgia

Salisbury Plain is a wildlife site without parallel. Several large glaciers provide a dramatic backdrop for the tens of thousands of King Penguins that nest in the tussac grass of this remarkable ecosystem. The wide beach makes for excellent walking as we visit the co...

Day 11 South Georgia

We hope to visit Prion Island, a beautiful tussac-grass covered islet. If we are lucky, we will get the opportunity to see a breeding colony of Wandering Albatross on top of it. We will climb to the summit on a wooden boardwalk, which takes us close to their nests and offers comfortable viewing platforms.

Meals Provided : Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

Day 12 South Georgia

Grytviken lies within King Edward Cove, a sheltered harbour tucked between Hope Point and Hobart Rock on the western shore of Cumberland East Bay. The rusting ruins of the Grytviken whaling station are situated on a level plain at the head of the cove, backed by steep...

Day 13 At Sea

We spend the next two days crossing the Scotia Sea towards the Antarctic Peninsula, offering opportunities to be out on deck, catch up on some reading, or simply reflect on the magical experiences of the last few days on South Georgia.

Meals Provided : Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

Day 14 At Sea

Further lectures and other activities will be offered throughout these days at sea and our expedition team will prepare you for our experience in the Antarctic Peninsula and South Shetland Islands.

Meals Provided : Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

Day 15 Elephant Island, South Shetland Islands

We hope to have a chance to visit the enigmatic Elephant Island. Those who are aware of Sir Ernest Shackleton's story, will need no introduction to this historic windswept island. In 1916 Shackleton was forced to leave 22 of his men stranded on these shores, while he ...

Day 16 Exploring the Antarctic Sound

Our expedition team will prepare you for our experience in the Antarctic Peninsula and South Shetland Islands. Later today, we hope to arrive at the Antarctic Peninsula in the area of the scenic Antarctic Sound. Here we will try to land at one of the following landing...

Day 17 Antarctic Peninsula

We will attempt to land at as many sites as possible. We might visit Hydrurga Rocks, a small group of islets, which lie east of Two Hummock Island in the Palmer Archipelago, at the northern entrance of the Gerlache Strait. Chinstrap Penguins, Blue-eyed Shags and Kelp ...

Day 18 Antarctic Peninsula

We might visit Hydrurga Rocks, a small group of islets, which lie east of Two Hummock Island in the Palmer Archipelago, at the northern entrance of the Gerlache Strait. Chinstrap Penguins, Blue-eyed Shags and Kelp Gulls are confirmed breeders here. We may also go to C...

Day 19 Antarctic Peninsula

If conditions permit, we hope to land on Deception Island - the largest of three recent volcanic centers in the South Shetlands. Sailing through the narrow passage into the flooded caldera of Deception Island is truly amazing. Once inside, the rising slope of the blac...

Day 20 The Drake Passage

We leave Antarctica and head north across the Drake Passage.

Meals Provided : Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

Day 21 The Drake Passage

Join our lecturers and naturalists on deck as we search for seabirds and whales. We will also enjoy some final lectures. Take the chance to relax and reflect on the fascinating adventures we have had over the past days.

Meals Provided : Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

Day 22 Ushuaia

We arrive at the port of Ushuaia in the early morning and disembark the MV Ushuaia after breakfast.

Meals Provided : Breakfast

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Dates & Availability

Price From $11,750
Price per day$534
Last Updated: 4/24/2024

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The total tour cost includes the tour price (regular or promotional) and the compulsory local payment. The promotional price is subject to change. Check directly with the operator for the latest price offer. The tour operator requires you to pay only the tour price to purchase your travel. The compulsory local payment will be paid when you join the trip. All prices are based on double, twin or triple share occupancy. Solo passengers will be accommodated in a double, twin or triple room according to availability with a passenger(s) of the same gender. Single supplement only needs to be paid if the passenger does not want to share and requests their own room. Discounts can only be applied at the time of booking and cannot be added at a later date, regardless of any changes made to the original booking.

Prices may vary due to local taxes and trip seasonality. Click "Request Info" to inquire directly with the tour operator for the final trip price.

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About Explore

We've been taking small groups on adventure vacations for over 41 years. Our authentic adventure travel experiences explore the sights and culture of a country, with hand-picked accommodation that balances comfort and location. Our average group tour size is just 11; perfect for meeting new people and getting to the heart of our destinations. Explore is one of the world's most trusted adventure travel companies with over 350 trips to more than 100 countries. We are passionate about travel and have developed a wide range of unique activities and adventures which give our customers an unforgettable experience with a team of award-winning Explore leaders. With Explore, you'll get to see your destination from a whole new perspective that takes you away from the typical well-trodden tourist track. You'll have the chance to meet, dine and stay with local people, rest in authentic accommodation with other like-minded explorers and travel to must-see destinations with a unique Explore twist. From family holidays to trips for solo travelers; cycling tours to wildlife safaris; trekking on mountains or exploring miles of scenic coastline, there is something for every kind of traveler with Explore. We will provide our expert knowledge, exciting itineraries and outstanding service as part of our sustainable travel experiences which take you under the skin of the country you're visiting for the adventure of a lifetime.


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Logistics

Transportation & Flights

M/V Ushuaia, Zodiac,

Transportation & flights

M/V Ushuaia, Zodiac
Guides
Expedition Crew, Naturalist(s)
Cancellation policy
These conditions are applicable to Discovery & Wildlife, Cycling, Walking and Family Trips. These conditions were updated November 2022. Booked a Polar trip? Please refer to our Polar booking conditions. To make it easy to know the detail of our flexibility, we’ve put it in a grid (these terms apply to all trips apart from our Polar Voyages.) Standard cancellations or changes within 69 days of travel If you’re getting closer to your trip, cancellation charges will apply as follows: For trips confirmed by 31st December 2022: 59-42 days before trip start date – 30%, or loss of deposit if higher 41-28 days before trip start date – 60% 27-14 days before trip start date – 90% Less than 14 days before trip start date – 100% For trips confirmed from 1st January 2023: 69 -42 days before trip start date – 30%, or loss of deposit if higher 41-28 days before trip start date – 60% 27-14 days before trip start date – 90% Less than 14 days before trip start date – 100%
Travel Insurance
We strongly recommend purchasing travel insurance alongside your travel package to safeguard against unforeseen circumstances such as medical expenses, trip cancellations, and other contingencies. It offers you peace of mind and ensures you are prepared for unexpected events that may occur before or during your journey
Visa requirements
Although no visas are required for citizens of UK, CAN, USA, AUS and NZ visa waivers may apply. Other nationalities should consult the relevant consulate. All visa information is subject to change. You should confirm all visa related issues with the relevant Embassy prior to departure. Please note that flights on the tour may transit through the USA. According to US law, passengers will have to disembark, collect luggage and clear immigration before re-boarding for the onward flight. Holders of the UK, AUS, NZ, CAN and several EU country passports can enter the United States without a visa under the Visa Waiver Program (VWP) if they hold a machine readable passport. They must also be entering the country by sea or air on a carrier participating in the visa waiver scheme, holding a return/onward ticket. As well as being machine readable, if your passport was issued on or after 26 October 2005, it must contain both a digital photograph of the holder and also an integrated circuit chip that stores biographic information. All passengers travelling to the USA under the Visa Waiver Programme must provide their details online no later than 72 hours prior to travel. British travellers who have not registered before their trip are likely to be detained and sent home. In addition to passport information, you must also supply the full address of your first night's accommodation in the USA. This information can be obtained from your joining instructions which are sent out approximately 3 weeks before travel. Anyone applying for ESTA (Electronic Travel Authorisation) to travel under the Visa Waiver system will be charged a fee of 14USD (9GBP). For more information, and to apply online, please visit the following website at https://esta.cbp.dhs.gov. Once obtained, the application will be valid for a period of two years, or for the validity of your passport (whichever is shorter). For more information about who is eligible for the VWP, or any other questions you may have regarding your eligibility, or machine readable passports, please contact your local consular office, or visit www.usembassy.org.uk Other nationalities should consult the relevant consulate. Argentina: Although a visa is not required by Australian, American and Canadian passengers to enter Argentina there is a reciprocal payment to be made. The fee must be paid online prior to entering the country. The receipt generated at the time of online payment must be printed and given to local migration authorities together with passport upon passengers arrival to Argentina. These payments are as follows: Australian - US$100; Canadian - US$70; American US$131. The fee can be paid at http://www.migraciones.gov.ar/accesibleingles
Meals Included
  • Breakfast : 21
  • Dinner : 21
  • Lunch : 20
Age Requirements
16 to 85 years
Additional Information
Trip ID
explore-USSG

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