South Georgia & Antarctic Odyssey Cruise

This morning, ensure any cabin luggage is fitted with cabin tags and take it down to hotel reception by 8:00am. Luggage will be collected from the hotel and transferred directly to port for clearance and delivered to your cabin ahead of embarkation. Keep any valuables or personal items with you throughout the day. Check out of the hotel by 11:00am and enjoy free time before meeting back in the hotel lobby at 2:00pm to commence a tour of Ushuaia. Alternatively, enjoy time at leisure and make your own way to the Prison Museum parking lot by 3:45pm to rejoin the group and transfer to the pier for embarkation.

Ushuaia, capital of Tierra del Fuego, is located at the shores of the Beagle Channel and surrounded by the Martial Mountains, providing a unique Argentinian landscape combining mountains, sea, glaciers and forests. On the half-day introductory tour, visit “La Mision” neighborhood, the old Government House and the upper area of the city with its panoramic views. See the antique houses that belonged to the first families settled in Ushuaia. The excursion ends with a visit to the Old Prison Museum before transferring to the pier for embarkation around 4:00pm.

After embarkation, settle into your cabin before an important mandatory briefing. As the ship pulls away from port, gather on the deck to commence the adventure with spectacular views over Ushuaia and Tierra del Fuego. This evening, get to know fellow guests and friendly expedition team and crew members at a welcome dinner.

As the ship commences the Drake Passage crossing, make the most of this time getting comfortable with the motions of the sea. The expedition team prepare all for the first landing with important wildlife guidelines and biosecurity procedures, and start the lecture program to help educate about Antarctica’s history, wildlife and environment. The wildlife experiences begin with watching and photographing the many seabirds, including majestic albatrosses and giant petrels following in the ship’s wake. They rise and fall skillfully, using air currents created by the ship to gain momentum.

Nearing the South Shetland Islands and the tip of the Antarctic Peninsula, the excitement is palpable with everyone converging on one of the observation decks, watching for the first iceberg. The ocean takes on a whole new perspective once the ship is below the Antarctic Convergence and is surrounded by the surreal presence of floating ice sculptures. The memory of the first big iceberg sighting is unforgettable. Weather permitting, the first landing in Antarctica may be attempted by late afternoon.

It’s almost impossible to describe the feeling of arriving in Antarctica. Take a deep breath of some of the most fresh, crisp air on earth. The western side of the Antarctic Peninsula and the South Shetland Islands are ready to be explored, and there are many options. Being so far south, experience approximately 18-24 hours of daylight, enabling the days to be as busy as desired. The experienced expedition team, who have made countless journeys to this area, will use their expertise to design the voyage from day to day, choosing the best options based on the prevailing weather, ice conditions and wildlife opportunities.

Hope to make landings or Zodiac excursions twice a day, as planned. Dress warmly before joining Zodiac cruises along spectacular ice cliffs or among grounded icebergs, keeping watch for whales, seals and porpoising penguins. Zodiacs will also provide transport between the ship and landing sites that are host to penguin rookeries and historic huts. While ashore, aim to stretch the legs, wandering along pebbly beaches or perhaps up snow-covered ridgelines to vantage points with mountains towering overhead and ice-speckled oceans below.

Possibly enjoy ship cruises through some of the narrow, dramatic straits separating offshore islands from the mainland, or linger in scenic bays to watch whales travelling or feeding. This is a great time to enjoy the observation lounge or bridge for uninterrupted views of Antarctica in all its splendor. Keep an ear out for the creak and deep rumble of glaciers as they carve their way from summit to sea, and take a quiet moment to experience the wonder of this incredible white continent.

If weather permits, set course for Elephant Island, a half-submerged mountain cloaked with an ice sheet at the outer limits of the South Shetlands. Learn the story of Shackleton and hear how his ship, the Endurance, was crushed in pack ice in the Weddell Sea, before he and his men climbed into three open boats, spending 16 months at sea before finally making landfall on this tiny toe of rock and ice in the vastness of the Southern Ocean on 14 April, 1916. Plan to sail past Cape Valentine to see the beach where the men first put ashore over 100 years ago. Weather permitting; hope to follow the coastline six miles west to Point Wild, where the men eventually set up camp under two of their upturned open boats and some old tents. If weather permits, attempt to make a landing on historic Point Wild, Elephant Island.

According to NASA, the optimum position to experience the solar eclipse is well into the Weddell Sea. The eclipse is visible from the following geographic regions: Antarctica, South Africa, South Atlantic, but the full eclipse will only be visible in Antarctica.
The instant of greatest eclipse takes place on 04 December, 2021 at 07:34:38 TD (Terrestrial Dynamical Time) or (07:33:28 UT1).
Historically, early December would be considered too early to visit South Orkney Islands because of extensive sea ice. However, conditions have been changing every year and it may be possible to get into the South Orkneys on 04 December, 2021–the unknown is part of what makes the experience even more thrilling.

The eclipse belongs to Saros 152 and is number 13 of 70 eclipses in the series. All eclipses in this series occur at the Moon’s descending node. The total solar eclipse of 04 December, 2021 is preceded two weeks earlier by a partial lunar eclipse on 19 November, 2021. These eclipses all take place during a single eclipse season–a period during which the Sun appears close enough to one of the Moon’s nodes to allow a solar eclipse to occur. Each season lasts approximately 34 days and repeats at about 173-day intervals.

En route for South Georgia, head across the Scotia Sea, following the route that Shackleton and five of his men took in order to find help for the rest of their crew. On 24 April, 1916, they piled into the James Caird, the most seaworthy of their open boats, to attempt this perilous journey to South Georgia, some 802 miles distant. Shackleton hoped to reach South Georgia in two weeks. There he would enlist the help of the whalers to return to Elephant Island and rescue the men who had been left behind. As excitement builds for South Georgia, catch up with fellow expeditioners in the bar, keep watch for wildlife alongside the naturalist from the open bridge, or learn more of the Shackleton story from the ship’s historian.

As the ship nears the rugged island of South Georgia, spare a thought for Captain James Cook, who arrived here in 1775 and believed it to be the northern tip of a great southern continent! In fact, it is a small island only 110 miles long, but with a 9,842-foot snow-capped mountain range, some of the world’s largest congregations of wildlife and a truly fascinating human history, South Georgia is an island of incredible riches. On approach, jagged mountain peaks rise steeply, while seabirds are often spotted soaring around the ship. Sail down the east coast, taking in the spectacular glaciated scenery and enjoying a little shelter from the prevailing westerly winds along this enchanting coastline.

The experienced expedition team will plan the voyage from day to day, choosing the best options based on the prevailing weather, sea state and wildlife opportunities. Anticipate making landings or Zodiac excursions twice a day. Zodiac cruises scour craggy coves the rocky coastline in search of nesting penguins, seal haul-outs and bird cliffs. Watch for South Georgia’s kelp forests as well–these remarkable underwater ecosystems are quite mesmerizing as their fronds sway back and forth on the water’s surface.

Zodiacs will also transport you from ship to shore, where you can visit some of the largest king penguin colonies on earth, take a guided walk among fur seals and elephant seals (making sure you listen to your guides and keep your distance!) and wander along pebbled streams and grassy glacial outwash plains. We also hope to visit the remnants of South Georgia’s thriving whaling stations and pay our respects to Sir Ernest Shackleton, whose incredible voyage of survival is synonymous with this island. If you have chosen an optional activity, you’ll have the option to do that whenever conditions allow.

Additionally, the ship may cruise through fjords with towering cliffs of ancient stone, or into deeply indented bays towards dramatic glacier fronts. This is a great time to find a comfy spot in the observation lounge or the bridge to enjoy uninterrupted views of South Georgia’s majestic coast.

Between South Georgia and the Falkland Islands, be entranced by the ceaseless flight of the many seabirds that follow the ship’s wake, skillfully using the air currents created by the ship to gain momentum. On this leg, the ship usually travels into the prevailing weather so it is difficult to estimate the arrival time into the Falklands. The lecture program will continue and highlight all of the amazing sights witnessed over the past few days. Enjoy ample time to observe sea birds, whale watch from the bridge or simply relax in the bar with a book. If time and weather conditions permit, pass close to Shag Rocks, a fascinating group of jagged rocky islets protruding from the sea in the proximity of South Georgia.

The Falkland Islands comprises two large islands (East and West Falkland), with over 700 islands scattered off the coast. All but seven of these are uninhabited, with windswept coastlines, white sand beaches and crystal clear water. These beautifully barren islands are true wildlife havens, sheltering an impressive diversity of birdlife, including the largest black-browed albatross colony on earth. The cold, nutrient-rich waters surrounding the islands make this a prime location for spotting marine life.

There are many beautiful areas to explore across the Falklands, each offering a unique perspective on this magnificent archipelago. The experienced expedition team, who have made countless journeys to this area, will use their expertise to design the voyage from day to day, choosing the best options based on the prevailing winds, weather and wildlife opportunities.

Anticipate making landings or Zodiac excursions twice a day, weather permitting. Despite being north of the Antarctic Convergence, it can be quite chilly here, so layer up before joining Zodiac cruises into rocky coves or along sea cliffs, keeping watch for seals, sea lions, dolphins and porpoising penguins. Zodiacs will also transport guests from the ship to land to visit possible albatross colonies, penguin rookeries and perhaps even enjoy a traditional English tea and scones gathering at a local cottage.

Also aim to land in historic Stanley, the capital of the Falklands. This charming town has a distinctly British character, with terraced townhouses, pioneer cottages and even an iconic red telephone box! Colorful buildings house cozy cafes, English pubs, souvenir shops, a post office and the fascinating Historic Dockyard Museum, with displays on the maritime history of the Falkland Islands, natural history and links to Antarctica.

Consider spending the sea day returning to Ushuaia by editing photos, enjoying the onboard facilities or listening to an informative lecture. Celebrate the end of an unforgettable voyage with newfound friends at a special captain’s farewell dinner.

Upon disembarkation, transfer to the Ushuaia airport to continue onward.

This morning, ensure any cabin luggage is fitted with cabin tags and take it down to hotel reception by 8:00am. Luggage will be collected from the hotel and transferred directly to port for clearance and delivered to your cabin ahead of embarkation. Keep any valuables or personal items with you throughout the day. Check out of the hotel by 11:00am and enjoy free time before meeting back in the hotel lobby at 2:00pm to commence a tour of Ushuaia.

Ushuaia, capital of Tierra del Fuego, is located at the shores of the Beagle Channel and surrounded by the Martial Mountains, providing a unique Argentinian landscape combining mountains, sea, glaciers and forests. On the half-day introductory tour, visit “La Mision” neighborhood, the old Government House and the upper area of the city with its panoramic views. See the antique houses that belonged to the first families settled in Ushuaia. The excursion ends with a visit to the Old Prison Museum before transferring to the pier for embarkation around 4:00pm.

After embarkation, settle into your cabin before an important mandatory briefing. As the ship pulls away from port, gather on the deck to commence the adventure with spectacular views over Ushuaia and Tierra del Fuego. This evening, get to know fellow guests and friendly expedition team and crew members at a welcome dinner to celebrate the start of a thrilling adventure to Antarctica.

As the ship commences the Drake Passage crossing, make the most of the time getting comfortable with the motions of the sea. The expedition team prepares everyone for the first landing with important wildlife guidelines and biosecurity procedures, and they start the lecture program to enlighten guests about Antarctica’s history, wildlife and environment. Wildlife experiences begin with watching and photographing the many seabirds, including majestic albatrosses and giant petrels following in the ship’s wake. They rise and fall skillfully, using air currents created by the ship to gain momentum.

Nearing the South Shetland Islands and the tip of the Antarctic Peninsula, the excitement is palpable with everyone converging on one of the observation decks, watching for the first iceberg. The ocean takes on a whole new perspective once the ship is below the Antarctic Convergence and is surrounded by the surreal presence of floating ice sculptures. The memory of the first big iceberg sighting is unforgettable. Weather permitting, the first landing in Antarctica may be attempted by late afternoon.

It’s almost impossible to describe the feeling of arriving in Antarctica. Take a deep breath of some of the most fresh, crisp air on earth. The western side of the Antarctic Peninsula and the South Shetland Islands are ready to be explored, and there are many options. Being so far south, experience approximately 18-24 hours of daylight, enabling the days to be as busy as desired. The experienced expedition team, who have made countless journeys to this area, will use their expertise to design the voyage from day to day, choosing the best options based on the prevailing weather, ice conditions and wildlife opportunities.

Hope to make landings or Zodiac excursions twice a day, as planned. Dress warmly before joining Zodiac cruises along spectacular ice cliffs or among grounded icebergs, keeping watch for whales, seals and porpoising penguins. Zodiacs will also provide transport between the ship and landing sites that are host to penguin rookeries and historic huts. While ashore, aim to stretch the legs, wandering along pebbly beaches or perhaps up snow-covered ridgelines to vantage points with mountains towering overhead and ice-speckled oceans below.

Possibly enjoy ship cruises through some of the narrow, dramatic straits separating offshore islands from the mainland, or linger in scenic bays to watch whales travelling or feeding. This is a great time to enjoy the observation lounge or bridge for uninterrupted views of Antarctica in all its splendor. Keep an ear out for the creak and deep rumble of glaciers as they carve their way from summit to sea, and take a quiet moment to experience the wonder of this incredible white continent.

If weather permits, set course for Elephant Island, a half-submerged mountain cloaked with an ice sheet at the outer limits of the South Shetlands. Learn the story of Shackleton and hear how his ship, the Endurance, was crushed in pack ice in the Weddell Sea, before he and his men climbed into three open boats, spending 16 months at sea before finally making landfall on this tiny toe of rock and ice in the vastness of the Southern Ocean on 14 April, 1916. Plan to sail past Cape Valentine to see the beach where the men first put ashore over 100 years ago. Weather permitting; hope to follow the coastline six miles west to Point Wild, where the men eventually set up camp under two of their upturned open boats and some old tents. If weather permits, attempt to make a landing on historic Point Wild, Elephant Island.

En route for South Georgia, head across the Scotia Sea, following the route that Shackleton and five of his men took in order to find help for the rest of their crew. On 24 April, 1916, they piled into the James Caird, the most seaworthy of their open boats, to attempt this perilous journey to South Georgia, some 802 miles distant. Shackleton hoped to reach South Georgia in two weeks. There he would enlist the help of the whalers to return to Elephant Island and rescue the men who had been left behind. As excitement builds for South Georgia, catch up with fellow expeditioners in the bar, keep watch for wildlife alongside the naturalist from the open bridge, or learn more of the Shackleton story from the ship’s historian.

As the ship nears the rugged island of South Georgia, spare a thought for Captain James Cook, who arrived here in 1775 and believed it to be the northern tip of a great southern continent! In fact, it is a small island only 110 miles long, but with a 9,842-foot snow-capped mountain range, some of the world’s largest congregations of wildlife and a truly fascinating human history, South Georgia is an island of incredible riches. On approach, jagged mountain peaks rise steeply, while seabirds are often spotted soaring around the ship. Sail down the east coast, taking in the spectacular glaciated scenery and enjoying a little shelter from the prevailing westerly winds along this enchanting coastline.

The experienced expedition team will plan the voyage from day to day, choosing the best options based on the prevailing weather, sea state and wildlife opportunities. Anticipate making landings or Zodiac excursions twice a day. Zodiac cruises scour craggy coves the rocky coastline in search of nesting penguins, seal haul-outs and bird cliffs. Watch for South Georgia’s kelp forests as well–these remarkable underwater ecosystems are quite mesmerizing as their fronds sway back and forth on the water’s surface.

Zodiacs will also transport you from ship to shore, where you can visit some of the largest king penguin colonies on earth, take a guided walk among fur seals and elephant seals (making sure you listen to your guides and keep your distance!) and wander along pebbled streams and grassy glacial outwash plains. We also hope to visit the remnants of South Georgia’s thriving whaling stations and pay our respects to Sir Ernest Shackleton, whose incredible voyage of survival is synonymous with this island. If you have chosen an optional activity, you’ll have the option to do that whenever conditions allow.

Additionally, the ship may cruise through fjords with towering cliffs of ancient stone, or into deeply indented bays towards dramatic glacier fronts. This is a great time to find a comfy spot in the observation lounge or the bridge to enjoy uninterrupted views of South Georgia’s majestic coast.

Between South Georgia and the Falkland Islands, be entranced by the ceaseless flight of the many seabirds that follow the ship’s wake, skillfully using the air currents created by the ship to gain momentum. On this leg, the ship usually travels into the prevailing weather so it is difficult to estimate the arrival time into the Falklands. The lecture program will continue and highlight all of the amazing sights witnessed over the past few days. Enjoy ample time to observe sea birds, whale watch from the bridge or simply relax in the bar with a book. If time and weather conditions permit, pass close to Shag Rocks, a fascinating group of jagged rocky islets protruding from the sea in the proximity of South Georgia.

The Falkland Islands comprises two large islands (East and West Falkland), with over 700 islands scattered off the coast. All but seven of these are uninhabited, with windswept coastlines, white sand beaches and crystal clear water. These beautifully barren islands are true wildlife havens, sheltering an impressive diversity of birdlife, including the largest black-browed albatross colony on earth. The cold, nutrient-rich waters surrounding the islands make this a prime location for spotting marine life.

There are many beautiful areas to explore across the Falklands, each offering a unique perspective on this magnificent archipelago. The experienced expedition team, who have made countless journeys to this area, will use their expertise to design the voyage from day to day, choosing the best options based on the prevailing winds, weather and wildlife opportunities.

Anticipate making landings or Zodiac excursions twice a day, weather permitting. Despite being north of the Antarctic Convergence, it can be quite chilly here, so layer up before joining Zodiac cruises into rocky coves or along sea cliffs, keeping watch for seals, sea lions, dolphins and porpoising penguins. Zodiacs will also transport guests from the ship to land to visit possible albatross colonies, penguin rookeries and perhaps even enjoy a traditional English tea and scones gathering at a local cottage.

Also aim to land in historic Stanley, the capital of the Falklands. This charming town has a distinctly British character, with terraced townhouses, pioneer cottages and even an iconic red telephone box! Colorful buildings house cozy cafes, English pubs, souvenir shops, a post office and the fascinating Historic Dockyard Museum, with displays on the maritime history of the Falkland Islands, natural history and links to Antarctica.

Consider spending the final sea day by editing photos, enjoying the onboard facilities or listening to an informative lecture.

Plan to visit remote Isla de los Estados (Staten Island), located 18 miles off the southeastern portion of Argentina’s Tierra del Fuego. The island became a nature reserve to protect its fur seal colony and was off-limits to visitors since 1923. Recently, authorities have slowly opened up the island to tourism, allowing a limited number of visitors to hike through its southern beach forests, Zodiac cruise in the island’s numerous bays, and encounter local wildlife including Magellanic penguins, blue-eyed shags, fur seals and sea lions. Note: special permits are required to visit Staten Island and are subject to availability.

During the early morning, cruise up the Beagle Channel before quietly slipping into dock in Ushuaia, where disembarkation occurs around 8:00am. Say farewell to the expedition team and fellow passengers as everyone continues onward journeys, hopefully with a newfound sense of the immense power of nature. A transfer to downtown Ushuaia before continuing to the airport is included in the cost of the voyage.

This morning, ensure any cabin luggage is fitted with cabin tags and take it down to hotel reception by 8:00am. Luggage will be collected from the hotel and transferred directly to port for clearance and delivered to your cabin ahead of embarkation. Keep any valuables or personal items with you throughout the day. Check out of the hotel by 11:00am and enjoy free time before meeting back in the hotel lobby at 2:00pm to commence a tour of Ushuaia. Alternatively, enjoy time at leisure and make your own way to the Prison Museum parking lot by 3:45pm to rejoin the group and transfer to the pier for embarkation.

Ushuaia, capital of Tierra del Fuego, is located at the shores of the Beagle Channel and surrounded by the Martial Mountains, providing a unique Argentinian landscape combining mountains, sea, glaciers and forests. On the half-day introductory tour, visit “La Mision” neighborhood, the old Government House and the upper area of the city with its panoramic views. See the antique houses that belonged to the first families settled in Ushuaia. The excursion ends with a visit to the Old Prison Museum before transferring to the pier for embarkation around 4:00pm.

After embarkation, settle into your cabin before an important mandatory briefing. As the ship pulls away from port, gather on the deck to commence the adventure with spectacular views over Ushuaia and Tierra del Fuego. This evening, get to know fellow guests and friendly expedition team and crew members at a welcome dinner.

As the ship begins her trip across the South Atlantic Ocean towards the Falkland Islands, make the most of this time getting comfortable with the motions of the sea. The expedition team prepare all for the first landing with important wildlife guidelines and biosecurity procedures, and start the lecture program to help educate more about the region’s history, wildlife and environment.

Wildlife experiences begin. Enjoy watching and photographing the many seabirds, including majestic albatrosses and giant petrels, following in the ship’s wake. They rise and fall skillfully, using air currents created by the ship to gain momentum.

The Falkland Islands comprises two large islands (East and West Falkland), with over 700 islands scattered off the coast. All but seven of these are uninhabited, with windswept coastlines, white sand beaches and crystal clear water. These beautifully barren islands are true wildlife havens, sheltering an impressive diversity of birdlife, including the largest black-browed albatross colony on earth. The cold, nutrient-rich waters surrounding the islands make this a prime location for spotting marine life.

There are many beautiful areas to explore across the Falklands, each offering a unique perspective on this magnificent archipelago. The experienced expedition team, who have made countless journeys to this area, will use their expertise to design the voyage from day to day, choosing the best options based on the prevailing winds, weather and wildlife opportunities.

Anticipate making landings or Zodiac excursions twice a day, weather permitting. Despite being north of the Antarctic Convergence, it can be quite chilly here, so layer up before joining Zodiac cruises into rocky coves or along sea cliffs, keeping watch for seals, sea lions, dolphins and porpoising penguins. Zodiacs will also transport guests from the ship to land to visit possible albatross colonies, penguin rookeries and perhaps even enjoy a traditional English tea and scones gathering at a local cottage.

Also aim to land in historic Stanley, the capital of the Falklands. This charming town has a distinctly British character, with terraced townhouses, pioneer cottages and even an iconic red telephone box! Colorful buildings house cozy cafes, English pubs, souvenir shops, a post office and the fascinating Historic Dockyard Museum, with displays on the maritime history of the Falkland Islands, natural history and links to Antarctica.

Between the Falklands and South Georgia, be entranced by the ceaseless flight of the many seabirds that follow the ship’s wake, skillfully using the air currents created by the ship to gain momentum. On this leg, the ship is usually traveling into the prevailing weather so it is difficult to estimate the precise arrival time in South Georgia. The lecture program will continue highlighting all of the incredible sights witnessed over the past few days. Appreciate ample time to observe the sea birds, whale-watch from the observation areas or simply relax with a book. If time and weather conditions permit, hope to pass close to Shag Rocks, a fascinating group of jagged rocky islets protruding from the sea in the proximity of South Georgia.

As the ship nears the rugged island of South Georgia, spare a thought for Captain James Cook, who arrived here in 1775 and believed it to be the northern tip of a great southern continent! In fact, it is a small island only 110 miles long, but with a 9,842-foot snow-capped mountain range, some of the world’s largest congregations of wildlife and a truly fascinating human history, South Georgia is an island of incredible riches. On approach, jagged mountain peaks rise steeply, while seabirds are often spotted soaring around the ship. Sail down the east coast, taking in the spectacular glaciated scenery and enjoying a little shelter from the prevailing westerly winds along this enchanting coastline.

The experienced expedition team will plan the voyage from day to day, choosing the best options based on the prevailing weather, sea state and wildlife opportunities. Anticipate making landings or Zodiac excursions twice a day. Zodiac cruises scour craggy coves the rocky coastline in search of nesting penguins, seal haul-outs and bird cliffs. Watch for South Georgia’s kelp forests as well–these remarkable underwater ecosystems are quite mesmerizing as their fronds sway back and forth on the water’s surface.

Zodiacs will also transport you from ship to shore, where you can visit some of the largest king penguin colonies on earth, take a guided walk among fur seals and elephant seals (making sure you listen to your guides and keep your distance!) and wander along pebbled streams and grassy glacial outwash plains. We also hope to visit the remnants of South Georgia’s thriving whaling stations and pay our respects to Sir Ernest Shackleton, whose incredible voyage of survival is synonymous with this island. If you have chosen an optional activity, you’ll have the option to do that whenever conditions allow.

Additionally, the ship may cruise through fjords with towering cliffs of ancient stone, or into deeply indented bays towards dramatic glacier fronts. This is a great time to find a comfy spot in the observation lounge or the bridge to enjoy uninterrupted views of South Georgia’s majestic coast.

As the ship sails away from splendid South Georgia, enjoy presentations from the expedition team to help prepare for arrival to the wild South Sandwich Islands. Perhaps practice some photo editing skills, stay active in the gym, or simply watch seabirds frolic alongside the ship.

On Captain James Cook’s second voyage of discovery (1772–1775), he circumnavigated the globe in high southern latitudes, without seeing land, casting doubt on the existence of the Antarctic continent, which at that time was still unknown. It was during this voyage Cook discovered the South Sandwich Islands and landed on South Georgia Island, describing them as “Lands doomed by Nature to perpetual frigidness: never to feel the warmth of the sun’s rays; whose horrible and savage aspects I have not words to describe.” He named the South Sandwich Islands for Lord Sandwich. They are considered together with South Georgia, as a UK Dependent Territory and are uninhabited. Although Cook sighted a number of the islands, several more were not discovered until Bellingshausen visited in 1819.

Located about 460 mi southeast of South Georgia, the islands form a chain some 220 miles long, comprising 11 large and several smaller islands with a total area of about 230 square miles. Most are ice-capped and the tallest peak, on Montagu Island, reaches 4,500 ft. The climate is cold, with frequent snow and strong winds. The islands are volcanic in origin and some remain active. The island of Zavodovski, for instance, appears in constant eruption and reeks of rotten eggs (the volcano itself is named Mt. Asphyxia), while the islands of Visokoi, Candlemas, Saunders and Bellingshausen all show definite signs of activity. Bristol, Cook, and Thule islands are heavily glaciated and show no signs of warmth or activity. All the islands are steep-sided above the water, and fall away rapidly into deep water (more than 5,000 ft).

In Zodiacs or kayaks, explore the coast of some of the islands if conditions allow. Little is known about these islands, although the British Antarctic Survey has undertaken some limited biological and geological work there, mainly in the 1960s. Vegetation is very sparse. But there’s at least one extraordinary wildlife spectacle: Zavodovski Island supports a chinstrap penguin colony that numbers around one million penguins on its steep volcanic slopes. Those who have seen this massive penguin colony speak of it with awe.

Join the expedition team to pick up photography tips or learn about the White Continent, and keep an eye out for the first iceberg as the ship sails towards the Antarctic Peninsula.

It’s almost impossible to describe the feeling of arriving in Antarctica. Take a deep breath of some of the most fresh, crisp air on earth. The western side of the Antarctic Peninsula and the South Shetland Islands are ready to be explored, and there are many options. Being so far south, experience approximately 18-24 hours of daylight, enabling the days to be as busy as desired. The experienced expedition team, who have made countless journeys to this area, will use their expertise to design the voyage from day to day, choosing the best options based on the prevailing weather, ice conditions and wildlife opportunities.

Hope to make landings or Zodiac excursions twice a day, as planned. Dress warmly before joining Zodiac cruises along spectacular ice cliffs or among grounded icebergs, keeping watch for whales, seals and porpoising penguins. Zodiacs will also provide transport between the ship and landing sites that are host to penguin rookeries and historic huts. While ashore, aim to stretch the legs, wandering along pebbly beaches or perhaps up snow-covered ridgelines to vantage points with mountains towering overhead and ice-speckled oceans below.

Possibly enjoy ship cruises through some of the narrow, dramatic straits separating offshore islands from the mainland, or linger in scenic bays to watch whales travelling or feeding. This is a great time to enjoy the observation lounge or bridge for uninterrupted views of Antarctica in all its splendor. Keep an ear out for the creak and deep rumble of glaciers as they carve their way from summit to sea, and take a quiet moment to experience the wonder of this incredible white continent.

Enjoy a morning landing in Antarctica before commencing the crossing of the Drake Passage. Swap photos with fellow expeditioners or simply relax and enjoy the last days of a truly unforgettable voyage to the Antarctic.

During the early morning, cruise up the Beagle Channel before quietly slipping into dock in Ushuaia, where disembarkation occurs around 8:00am. Say farewell to the expedition team and fellow passengers as everyone continues onward journeys, hopefully with a newfound sense of the immense power of nature. A transfer to downtown Ushuaia before continuing to the airport is included in the cost of the voyage.