20 Days | Take on the journey of explorers and kings to the 7th Continent
Explore the rarely visited Falkland Islands (Malvinas), South Georgia and Antarctica on this unforgettable 20-day adventure to the 7th Continent. Stroll through the English village of Stanley, wander the islands’ sandy dunes and birdwatch at rugged cliffs teeming with seabirds. Discover the beaches where king penguins breed in South Georgia – this colony has one of the highest densities of animal life on earth! Both archipelagos are known for their wildlife and you’ll likely see epic displays of animals by the thousands. Explore the vast Antarctic Peninsula and enter a world of ice, snow and natural wonders, taking the opportunity to go on an optional sea-kayaking adventure, day paddling or snowshoeing.
Trip overview
- Start
- Ushuaia, Argentina
- Finish
- Ushuaia, Argentina
- Theme
- Polar, Wildlife
- Destinations
- South Georgia Island, Antarctica, Argentina, Falkland Islands
- Physical rating
- Indicates how physically exerting a trip is, and how fit you will need to be to enjoy it. More info on physical ratings
- Style
- Comfort
- Ages
- Min 8
- Group size
- Min 1 - Max 138
- Trip code
- GQMF
- Wander the British town of Stanley in the Falklands (Islas Malvinas) and explore the island farmsteads that teem with nesting seabirds – including many albatross and penguin species.
- Explore the local famous sites, towering glaciers and abundant penguin colonies of the Antarctic Peninsula and South Shetland Islands. Don’t forget to keep your eyes peeled for whales!
- Marvel at breathtaking polar scenery and witness the enormous king penguin colonies of South Georgia, where you’ll learn more about Sir Ernest Shackleton’s history and visit his grave.
- See the magnificent surrounds a little closer on daily Zodiac excursions and personalise your trip with our wide range of paid adventures – including kayaking and day paddling.
- Benefit from onboard educational lectures on history, geology and ecology, all by your expert onboard expedition team.
- The Ocean Explorer is an ice-strengthened ship – large, sturdy and suited to the unpredictable Antarctic waters. Some people may experience seasickness in occasional rough seas however, we do have a doctor on board should you need assistance. Over-the-counter seasickness medication is usually an easy fix.
- Temperatures in the Antarctic can get very cold, but it also can get surprisingly warm when the sun comes out. We recommend dressing in layers when you journey outside. We’ll provide you with waterproof boots on loan that are sturdy and warm, as well as a jacket that is yours to keep. Please see the Essential Trip Information for notes on what to pack.
- Depending on the weather, you’ll be travelling around in a Zodiac boat quite regularly to explore the area and search for wildlife. It can get cold and wet on the Zodiac, so make sure you dress appropriately and keep your camera safe and dry. A fair level of mobility is needed for wet and dry landings from the boat, as well as on steep terrain, snow and other uneven surfaces.
- The weather plays a pivotal part in this adventure and, although there’s an itinerary in place, there are no guarantees that you’ll be able to do everything that is planned. A level of flexibility and openness to embracing the unexpected are important in expedition travel, especially in such a remote area like the Antarctic. There are nearly 200 recognised sites in the Antarctic Peninsula and South Shetlands and the places mentioned in the itinerary may need to be changed to other locations – which are just as interesting and beautiful! We may also be confined to the ship during rough weather, but there are plenty on onboard resources and activities. The ship’s library and educational lectures are ideal ways to stay entertained, while the fitness centre, spa and pool will keep you fresh for when the weather clears.
Boats
Itinerary
Inclusions
19 breakfasts, 17 lunches, 18 dinners
Expedition cruise ship, zodiac
1 night comfortable hotel, 18 nights expedition cruise ship
Dates and availability
Important notes
This trip is operated on either the World Explorer or Ocean Explorer ship. Please check the dates and availability section to see which which ship is used on each voyage.
Your voyage is operated by our sister company, Quark Expeditions. All accommodation and transfer arrangements as listed in the itinerary are also operated by Quark Expeditions or their local representatives.
One nights pre expedition hotel is included in Ushuaia. The exact hotel will be provided on your final documentation.
Your trip finishes in Ushuaia at the port on day 20 in the morning after breakfast, please do not book onwards flights on this day untill after 12 pm midday.
"BOOKING CONDITIONS
To confirm your reservation, a deposit of 25% (unless indicated otherwise at time of booking) of the total invoice amount is required at time of booking. Balances are due 120 days prior to departure.
Please refer to our ""Booking terms and conditions"" page on our website for all Quark Expedition terms and conditions, http://www.intrepidtravel.com/booking-intrepid/booking-conditions"
ADVENTURE OPTIONS
Sea kayaking, camping and Padding excursions are available to book on this trip. Some activities must be booked prior to departure and incurs an additional cost. Spaces are limited so please enquire at time of booking.
Want an in-depth insight into this trip? Essential Trip Information provides a detailed itinerary, visa info, how to get to your hotel, what's included - pretty much everything you need to know about this adventure and more.
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