Antarctica Explorers’ Quest - Falkland Islands, South Georgia and the Antarctic Peninsula

Day 1: Ushuaia, Argentina

Due to the size of the continent, Antarctica’s diversity is best appreciated on longer voyages, where greater distances can be covered. This extended expedition encompasses the wildlife paradise of South Georgia, the remote Falkland Islands (Islas Malvinas), as well as the extraordinary beauty of the Peninsula. Overnight in Ushuaia.

Day 2: Embarkation Day

Prior to the afternoon embarkation in Ushuaia, visitors can explore the southernmost city in the world. The former prison for hardened criminals and political dissidents has been converted to a museum. The shops and cafés will be open for last-minute purchases or for a moment of relaxation.

Day 3: At Sea

There are many activities to keep travelers engaged while at sea. They can learn to identify seabirds that glide alongside the ship or attend illustrated presentations by the Expedition Team, who prepare adventurers for the shore landings, Zodiac cruising and kayaking that are to come.

Days 4 - 5: Falkland Islands (Islas Malvinas)

En route, the shipboard education program introduces the flora and fauna that you will encounter. Properly prepared, Zodiacs zip you from ship to shore to hike where Kelp Geese graze and Magellanic Penguins guard their burrows. You’ll comb beaches and socialize with local residents.

Days 6 - 7: At Sea

How will travelers know when they are in Antarctic waters? When the ship crosses the Antarctic Convergence, aka the Antarctic Polar Front. This biological boundary is unique to Antarctica. Encircling the continent, it is an irregular, invisible curve where the cold, northward-flowing Antarctic waters meet and mix with the warmer waters of the Indian, Pacific or Atlantic Oceans. The zone is about 32 to 48 km (20 to 30 miles) wide, somewhere between 48° and 61° S.

Days 8 - 11: South Georgia

After crossing the Southern Ocean, the Expedition Team plans a series of landings at King Penguin rookeries, abandoned whaling stations and the grave of Sir Ernest Shackleton. The opportunities for hiking, strolling or contemplating are limited only by the local weather conditions.

Days 12 - 13: At Sea

After crossing the Southern Ocean, the Expedition Team plans a series of landings at King Penguin rookeries, abandoned whaling stations and the grave of Sir Ernest Shackleton. The opportunities for hiking, strolling or contemplating are limited only by the local weather conditions.

Days 14 - 17: South Shetland Islands and Antarctic Peninsula

Deception Island, Neko Harbour, Paradise Harbour and Gerlache Strait … these are the names that conjure iconic images of the Antarctic Peninsula: towering glacier-capped mountains rising from a brilliant blue sea, dotted with ice floes. You’ll visit penguin colonies, listen for calving glaciers, and visit historic sites and research stations. The included Quark parka is perfect attire for the changeable Peninsula weather. Pack waterproof pants, binoculars and a camera, too. Photo opportunities abound in Antarctica.

Days 18 - 19: The Drake Passage to Ushuaia

Your second Drake Passage crossing may not be as smooth or as rough as your first. No matter the condition, it is a fitting end to your visit to Antarctica.

Day 20: Ushuaia

After breakfast aboard the ship, travelers are transferred to the airport for the homeward flight.

Important reminder: Embracing the unexpected is part of the legacy – and excitement – of expedition travel. There are no guarantees that we can achieve everything we set out to accomplish. A measure of flexibility is something all of us must bring to a voyage.