SCOTIA ARC: ANTARCTICA, SOUTH GEORGIA AND THE FALKLANDS

SHIP OFFERING THIS ITINERARY

Seabourn Venture

Seabourn Venture was launched in July of 2022, designed and built for diverse environments to PC6 Polar Class standards. She includes a plethora of modern hardware and technology that will extend the ship’s global deployment and capabilities. This ship features an innovative design, created specifically for the ultra-luxury expedition traveller. She is also designed to carry a complement of double sea kayaks as well as 24 Zodiacs that can accommodate all onboard guests at once, which will allow for a truly immersive experience. Venture features 132 all veranda, all ocean-front suites.

Day 1 Rio de Janeiro, Brazil

The harbour of Rio de Janeiro, cradled by the southern contours of Guanabara Bay under the majestic shadows of Corcovado and Sugarloaf mountains, is one of the world’s most unique and awe-inspiring ports. Rio de Janeiro vibrates with the rhythm and vitality of its renowned Carnavál Sambadrome parades, regardless of when you choose to visit. The city enjoys UNESCO World Heritage status, recognized as the “Carioca Landscapes, Between the Mountain and the Sea.” Your exploration of Rio wouldn’t be complete without visiting certain landmarks: the ascent to Sugarloaf, the lush Tijuca Rainforest Park, the towering Christ the Redeemer statue on Corcovado, and for football aficionados, the legendary Maracanä Stadium. Embark the ship here.

Day 2 At Sea

Enjoy a leisurely day at sea as you settle into life onboard. Take time to unwind, enjoy the ship’s beautiful facilities, and attend enriching onboard experiences while soaking in uninterrupted ocean views.

Day 3 Camboriu

Today you arrive in vibrant Camboriú, a lively seaside resort known for its sweeping beach, modern skyline and lush green hills. Spend the day exploring the region’s natural beauty and coastal scenery.

Take a cable car over the Atlantic Forest, offering panoramic views of the coastline before arriving at Laranjeiras Beach. Here, you can enjoy time to relax by the water or take a guided walk through the surrounding rainforest, immersing yourself in this unique blend of tropical landscapes. Alternatively, you may wish to explore the city at your own pace, strolling along the beachfront promenade or soaking up the relaxed Brazilian atmosphere before returning to the ship.

Days 4 – 5 At Sea

Spend the day at sea as you continue your journey. Join expert-led lectures and briefings, keep watch for wildlife from the deck, or relax and prepare for the adventures ahead.

Day 6 Montevideo, Uruguay

Tucked between Brazil and Argentina, the Republic of Uruguay decidedly holds its own with unique traditions and identity. Despite being South America’s second smallest nation, Uruguay feels like a vibrant city enveloped by expansive ranchlands. Often dubbed as the “Switzerland of South America,” Montevideo mirrors Switzerland’s discreet banking system. Choose between the two following shore excursions:

Option 1: Montevideo Highlights & Tango Experience
Immerse yourself in the beauty of Montevideo on a scenic drive. Witness historic landmarks and monuments, then visit the Mercado Agricola, a bustling farmer’s market teeming with local charm. End your day with a stirring tango performance at Baar Fun Fun, a venue steeped in over 80 years of history.

Option 2: Montevideo Old Town Walk & Tango Show
Explore the architectural wonders of Montevideo on foot. Discover the eclectic mix of styles in the city, then experience the passion of Uruguayan dance at Baar Fun Fun.

Days 7 – 8 At Sea

As you approach the Falkland Islands, spend your days at sea watching for wildlife from the observation decks aboard.

Days 9 – 11 Falkland Islands

The lonely lighthouse at Cape Pembroke welcomes arrivals to Stanley. It alerts ships to the treacherous rocks, reefs and shoals for which the Falkland Islands have long been known. With a population of over 2,000 people, Stanley is the largest settlement on the islands. Its gardens, tea rooms, brightly colored houses and hotels lend it a slightly Victorian feel, seemingly suspended in time. The Anglican Cathedral, the southernmost in the world, stands prominently on Stanley’s waterfront.

The Falklands’ unique abundance of wildlife is evident in Stanley. Dolphins visit its harbour, while steamer ducks, kelp gulls, and other birds abound on shore. Southern sea lions can be spotted basking in the sun. Southern giant petrels often fly through town, oblivious to the human presence. Founded in the 1840s, the town was named after Edward Smith-Stanley, Earl of Derby, who never visited the islands.

Days 12 – 13 At Sea

Use this time as you please. Relax by making the most of the on board facilities, or keep an eye out for birds and marine life as you sail.

Day 14 – 16 South Georgia

The South Georgia Islands Group, one of the least visited destinations on earth, is a gem in the heart of the sub-Antarctic. Comprising of South Georgia Island and its smaller surrounding islands and rocks, this untouched paradise houses a rich tapestry of wildlife, thriving in a climate that is as harsh as it is beautiful. Despite the presence of ice and snow, these islands are remarkably green, their vegetation a stark contrast to the icy expanses of Antarctica. This is a Lost Eden where nature reigns supreme, teeming with an array of wildlife that includes vast colonies of king and other penguin species, fur and elephant seals, albatrosses, giant petrels, and other seabirds. Offshore, whales, orcas, and dolphins thrive in the nutrient-rich waters, making this the most diverse marine ecosystem on earth.
Your journey through the South Georgia Islands Group is carefully curated by your Expedition Leader based on local conditions and wildlife reports. You’ll venture to historic communities like Grytviken, visit the sprawling breeding colony of king penguins on Salisbury Plain, and explore the rarely-visited, lesser-known sites nature allows.

Days 17 – 18 At Sea

As you sail, catch up with fellow expeditioners in the bar, keep watch for wildlife from the open bridge, or learn more of wildlife and history from the expert guides.

Days 19 – 23 Antarctic Peninsula

It’s almost impossible to describe the feeling of arriving in Antarctica. Spotting your first iceberg and taking a deep breath of some of the most fresh, crisp air on earth is an experience that will stay with you forever.

Your experienced expedition team, who have made countless journeys to this area, will use their expertise to design your voyage from day to day, choosing the best options based on the prevailing weather, ice conditions and wildlife opportunities.

You will generally make landings or Zodiac excursions twice a day. You’ll want to rug up before joining Zodiac cruises along spectacular ice cliffs or among grounded icebergs, keeping watch for whales, seals and porpoising penguins. Zodiacs will also transport you from the ship to land, where you can visit penguin rookeries, discover historic huts and explore some of the best spots along the peninsula.

Days 24 – 25 At Sea

As you sail towards Ushuaia, you may choose precious time editing photos, enjoying the onboard facilities, or attend final lectures. Celebrate the end of an unforgettable voyage with newfound friends.

Days 26 Ushuaia, Argentina to Buenos Aires

During the early morning, you will cruise up the Beagle Channel, before quietly slipping into dock in Ushuaia – which holds the distinctive title of being the southernmost city on Earth, often referred to as ‘the end of the world’. Farewell your fellow passengers and expedition team before disembarking and joining the charter flight to Buenos Aires.