Wild Isles of the South Atlantic

Upon arrival in Ushuaia, Argentina, the world's southernmost city. Explore Patagonia or opt for a stroll amidst the neighboring forests. For a venture beyond the ordinary, consider a day excursion to the untamed landscapes of Tierra del Fuego. This island offers a haven for avid hikers, with its rugged peaks, snow-capped mountains, glaciers, and picturesque meadows teeming with vibrant flora. In the afternoon, board the vessel, waiting to welcome you in port.

Following the essential safety briefing, the expedition commences as you glide through the serene waters of the renowned Beagle Channel, named after Charles Darwin's illustrious vessel. This narrow strait delineates southern Tierra del Fuego, serving as a historic launchpad for countless explorations. Keep a keen eye out for glimpses of majestic whales and playful dolphins as you venture into the turbulent waters of the Drake Passage, charting a course toward the unknown.

Following the South Atlantic currents, set course for the seldom-visited Falkland Islands (Islas Malvinas).

Although the indigenous Yaghan people may have ventured to these shores, the Falklands were uninhabited upon European arrival in the early 16th Century. Sovereignty disputes ensued, culminating in the 1982 conflict between Britain and Argentina. Post-conflict, the islands thrived, capitalizing on their fishing resources after a successful demining effort in 2020.

Teeming with diverse marine life, including whales, seals, and penguins, the Falklands offer rich wildlife viewing opportunities. Join the Expedition Team for insights into the islands' history, biology, and distinctive 'Kelper' culture.

En route to the Falklands, the Expedition Leader outlines guidelines for respectful wildlife encounters ashore. Additionally, the team can assist in cleaning and biosecuring your gear to safeguard the island's delicate ecosystem.

During the first two days in the Falkland Islands, venture to some of the outer islands in the West Falklands - 'Camp', as the locals call the area outside the capital, Stanley.

The outer islands of the Falklands are much more wild and more remote than the mainland and host the majority of the islands' wildlife. Islands such as West Point, Carcass and Saunders are well known for their white sandy shores and spectacular wildlife. Southern Rockhopper Penguins, Black-Browed Albatross, and King Cormorants commonly nest together in vast cliffside colonies; penguins nurture their eggs and chicks in clefts between large cylindrical nests where cormorants and albatross nest. Be sure to look out above to see the vast albatross coming into land - often less than gracefully! The islands are also home to a vast number of other bird species such as the endearingly cheeky Striated Caracara (watch all unattended possessions!), and in the water, a number of species such as commerson's dolphins and South American sea lions can be seen playing.

During the following morning, cast anchor in the sheltered natural harbor of Stanley (sometimes known as Port Stanley), and land in the center of this small city by Zodiac. Stanley is the only settlement on the islands of any size, with a population of around two thousand people - the majority of the islands' population. Look closer and you'll notice a very distinctly British feel to Stanley. Victorian houses lining the harbourfront could be on any swanky London terrace; red telephone booths and post boxes stand by the jetty; cosy whitewashed pubs serve fish and chips alongside foaming pints of ale.

The Falkland Islanders are proud of their unique homeland, and Stanley is a great place to explore and soak up the local vibe. Highlights in the city include Christchurch Cathedral, the southernmost Anglican cathedral on Earth, as well as excellent shops selling local products (watch out for high-quality woolen goods in particular), cafes and pubs offering a warm welcome, and an excellent museum; visitors are spoiled for choice! A short drive or a pleasant walk from the city are several stunning beaches. Once heavily mined, these are now open, and locals and foreigners alike often visit to see the abundant penguins and spectacular gold-white sands. Be sure to keep watch for wildlife while strolling through town - even close to shore, penguins, giant petrels and sea lions are very common!

From the Falklands, set out eastwards again, following the ocean currents towards South Georgia. Here you enter the Furious Fifties, the stretch of powerful watermarking the entry to the Antarctic ecoregion. Watch the mercury drop as you sail further east. Your crossing can benefit from the vessels' powerful engines, and the stability provided by the specially-designed X-Bow - making the journey in just two days!

In order to protect the extremely delicate and rich ecosystem of South Georgia, the dedicated Expedition Team can assist you in thoroughly biosecure your clothing and equipment. The Team can also continue their in-depth lecture program, now focussing on the fascinating history, biology, and wildlife of South Georgia. Be sure also to wrap up warm and join your Expedition Team out on deck! Due to the mixture of temperate and polar waters, this region of the South Atlantic is one of the most biologically productive on Earth and is a haven for vast quantities of wildlife - from whales and albatross to penguins and seals. Watch the waves carefully - in this region, sub-Antarctic species (such as fur seals) mingle with true polar species (such as Adelie Penguins), creating a fascinating ecological mix.

Jagged mountains pierce the brooding clouds of the Southern Ocean. Icebound peaks loom over stormy beaches, and glaciers peek from the head of deep fjords. Peer closer, and you can see greenery among the ice, movement on the beaches, and wings in the skies above. 

South Georgia was once one of the most degraded environments on Earth. Hearing of the rich hunting, sealers flocked to the island after its discovery by Captain James Cook. Once the seals had been almost wiped out, South Georgia became the world's largest whaling area, with several settlements built to carry out this industrialized slaughter. Norwegian whalers introduced reindeer, which soon destroyed the island's vegetation, while brown rats devoured seabirds and their eggs. 

Thankfully, extensive conservation has restored this magnificent island to its former glory and removed the reindeer and rats - and glorious it truly is. Beaches throng with hundreds of thousands of elegant King Penguins, which must vie for space with the territorial Antarctic fur seals - who themselves must avoid the gigantic southern elephant seals. Tiny South Georgia Pippits and Pintail Ducks (once almost extinct) are now abundant, and petrels, albatross, and shags nest on the steep hillsides. In the sea, leopard seals stalk penguins, fur seal pups play in the shallows, and offshore, a huge variety of whales gorge on krill. Nowhere else on Earth boasts such a diversity and volume of wildlife!

The exact itinerary can be dictated by weather and sea conditions - nevertheless, the experienced Expedition Team and Captain can maximize opportunities to explore. South Georgia is one of those locations that grabs hold of the senses and never lets go; even long after departure, the jewel of the South Atlantic captivates visitors for years to come.

You are now on the last leg of this adventurous voyage, heading northwestwards towards Montevideo, Uruguay - one of the most important ports for historical expeditions, as it is today.

During the time at sea, a variety of activities can be arranged on board to provide the guests with the chance to reflect on their voyage. Relax with an expertly crafted cocktail in the Nordic Bar in the company of new friends, soak up the knowledge and passion of the Expedition Team during lectures in the Shackleton Lounge, or simply enjoy the flight of the albatross that accompanies you westward. As you traverse from chilly Antarctic waters into more temperate climes, watch as the variety of birds and marine mammals changes and diversifies. 

During your last evening onboard, join the Captain and Senior Officers for the Farewell Cocktail Party, followed by a presentation of photos and video by the onboard photographer - the ideal opportunity to re-live your Southern Ocean adventure. Skål!

The city of Montevideo sits at the mouth of the Rio de la Plata, the vast estuary that holds not one but two capital cities (the throbbing Argentine capital of Buenos Aires is just across the water). You'll head for the northern, Uruguayan shore, where the voyage ends in the delightful capital city of Montevideo. This vibrant city is the perfect introduction to the Southern Cone, offering incredible wine, gourmet cuisine, and a relaxed beach lifestyle. Trees, cars, grass, and a bustling capital city may seem strange to you after the white wilderness of the Southern Ocean!

After a hearty breakfast, it is time to bid a fond farewell to the Crew and Albatros Expedition Team, and descend the gangway back to dry land with memories of the voyage of a lifetime.