SOUTH GEORGIA AND ANTARCTIC ODYSSEY FT. SOUTH SANDWICH ISLANDS
__________________
SOUTH GEORGIA AND ANTARCTIC ODYSSEY FT. SOUTH SANDWICH ISLANDS
ITINERARY SUMMARY
| Day | Place | Highlights |
|---|---|---|
| Days 1 - 2 | Ushuaia | Day at leisure before embarkation |
| Days 3 - 4 | Drake Passage | Cross this famous stretch of sea towards the Antarctic Peninsula |
| Days 5 - 8 | Antarctic Peninsula | Reach and explore the southern most continent of the world |
| Days 9 - 11 | At Sea | Look for bird and marine life from the ship |
| Days 12 - 13 | South Sandwich Islands | Dramatic coastline, chinstrap penguin colony |
| Day 14 | At Sea | Continue your journey at sea toward South Georgia |
| Days 15 - 18 | South Georgia | Experience the beauty and sheer magnitude of wildlife on South Georgia |
| Days 19 - 20 | At Sea | Sail towards the Falkland Islands |
| Days 21 - 22 | Falklands-Malvinas | Discovering amazing bird-watching opportunities |
| Day 23 | At Sea | Reflect on your journey as you return to Ushuaia |
| Day 24 | Ushuaia | Disembark and farewell your fellow expeditioners |
SHIP OFFERING THIS ITINERARY
Greg Mortimer
The Greg Mortimer is a new purpose built, polar expedition vessel taking 120 guests. This vessel has been designed in close consultation with Antarctic expedition specialists and is the first expedition cruise ship designed with the ULSTEIN X-BOW hull. This cutting edge nautical technology allows for gentle travel and motion at sea, improved comfort and safety on-board, reduced vibrations, lower fuel consumption and emissions and ‘virtual anchoring’ which means the ship can float anchor-less while launching the Zodiacs without disturbing delicate sea floor areas. There are four sea-level launching platforms for fast and efficient access to and from Zodiacs.
Days 1 – 2 Ushuaia
Overview:
Arrive in Ushuaia, renowned for its breathtaking scenery. Ushuaia is the southernmost city in the world set on the shores of the Beagle Channel. Ushuaia is a major tourist centre, particularly for people cruising to Antarctica. The city offers magnificent hiking in Parque Nacional Tierra del Fuego, the only coastal national park in Argentina.
After transferring to your downtown hotel, the rest of the day is at your leisure.
Embark your ship the following day.
Days 3 – 4 At Sea
Cross the infamous Drake passage en route to the Antarctic Peninsula. As excitement builds for our arrival to Antarctica, be out on deck or from the open bridge to spot large iceberg.
Days 5 – 8 Antarctic Peninsula
Over the next few cays, you will be mesmerised by Antarctica. Zodiac-cruise amid iridescent grounded bergs, watching for whale blows from humpbacks, minkes and orca. Walk by plucky chinstrap and gentoo penguins in their bustling colonies.
Days 9 – 11 At Sea
Observe the bird and marine life from the observation decks as you approach the South Sandwich Islands.
Days 12 – 13 South Sandwich Islands
Located about 740 km southeast of South Georgia, the South Sandwich Islands form a chain some 350 km long, comprising 11 large and several smaller islands with a total area of about 600 sq. km. Most are ice-capped, and the tallest peak, on Montagu Island, reaches 1,370 m. The climate is cold, with frequent snow and strong winds. The islands are volcanic in origin and some remain active. In this wild environment, nature determines what you are able to do and see. If conditions allow, hope to explore the dramatic coastline of some the islands on board the ship or by Zodiac. Little is known about these islands, 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.
Day 14 At Sea
The educational program will continue as you head to South Georgia. Spend some time on deck admiring the sea birds and looking out for any wildlife that may be passing by.
Days 15 – 18 South Georgia
Over the next few days, explore the spectacular South Georgia. Marvel at some of the world’s largest king penguin colonies. Walk along beaches brimming with fur seals, elephant seals and curious penguins. Photograph jaw-dropping landscapes, embark on exhilarating hikes and learn about Shackleton’s epic tale of leadership and survival.
Days 19 – 20 At Sea
Set sail for the Falkland Islands. You may be joined by seabirds flying above and beside the ship. It might be a good time to practice your photography out on deck as they swoop and dive into the sea.
Days 21 – 22 Falkland Islands (Malvinas)
Discover the windswept coastlines and charismatic wildlife of the Falklands, home to Magellanic and rockhopper penguins, and curious sea lions.
Day 23 At Sea
As you sail back to Ushuaia, you may wish to attend one of the onboard lectures or simply enjoy the company of your travel companions reminiscing in your memories of a wonderful journey to Antarctica.
Day 24 Disembark Ushuaia
After breakfast disembark at the port in Ushuaia, Argentina. Farewell your expedition team and fellow travellers.
We will tailor the perfect holiday to suit your needs.
Extend your trip to Patagonia
To make the most of your time in South America we can tailor a holiday to Patagonia to suit your voyage dates. If you have a bit more time we can create a tailor-made itinerary to some of the highlights of South America. Take a look at the Patagonia sample itineraries below and contact us to begin creating your perfect holiday.
