Shackleton Antarctic Expedititon Cruise

Categories Winter & Spring Cruises Small Ship Cruises Antarctica Cruises Adventure & Eco Travel Cruises

South Georgia’s remote, untamed landscape is simply stunning. Marvel at the haunting cries of light-mantled sooty albatross, adorable fur seal pups learning to swim and herds of reindeer cantering across lush, grassy flats. Hike up tussock-covered slopes, past mossy streams for magnificent views of macaroni penguins, courting albatross and glaciated mountain peaks.

Scattered across the mighty Southern Ocean, the tiny arc of windswept islands and harbors are some of the world’s greatest wildlife sanctuaries. Famed for its abandoned whaling stations and Shackleton’s heroic journey, South Georgia is home to literally millions of fur seals and penguins, wallows of elephant seals, and nesting albatross. This remarkable voyage also includes time to explore the Antarctic Peninsula.

Itinerary

Embark in the late afternoon to a warm welcome in Stanley, the very British capital of the Falkland Islands. We set sail this evening.

We have ample time to explore the network of harbors along South Georgia’s spectacular northern coast, visiting wildlife havens that include the world’s largest king penguin rookeries and majestic albatross nests. Kayakers revel in paddling the coastline’s nooks and crannies, accompanied by playful seals. In Stromness and Grytviken harbours, 3000-metre peaks form dramatic backdrops to the remains of whaling stations. Kelp-strewn beaches are cluttered with basking elephant seals, feisty fur seals and a plethora of penguins.

Time to reflect on all we’ve seen and learned, and to prepare for the next phase of our journey as continue across the Scotia Sea.

Following in Shackleton’s wake, we cross the Scotia Sea detouring to the remote, mountainous South Orkney Islands. Zodiac cruise through a maze of icebergs to land at a beach bedecked with penguins, seals, and lichen-encrusted boulders.

Approaching the steep slopes of Elephant Island, home to 22 of Shackleton’s men for four months, we hope for a clear view of the spot where the men wintered beneath their upturn boats. With luck we will go ashore to pay tribute to these hardy souls.

Awaken to the thrill of Antarctica, where we plan to visit busy penguin rookeries, historic sites and make a continental landing.

Keen eyes watch for icebergs, while sightings of penguins, fur seals and king cormorants announce our approach to the South Shetland Islands.

Our Drake Passage crossing offers excellent bird-watching from the outer decks or the warmth of the bridge. Learn about Antarctica from our expert naturalist’s informative talks, and about safety and environmental guidelines from expedition staff. We have time to meet fellow travelers, chat, and read

We return to Ushuaia and disembark

Notes