Antarctica, the Falklands and South Georgia roundtrip cruise

Ushuaia→Ushuaia

06.01.27 - 23.01.27

M0127010617SH MINERVA

Ports6

Countries4

Nights17

Drink in the icy wilderness of the Antarctic Peninsula as you follow in the footsteps of Ernest Shackleton, one of history’s greatest explorers. Observe penguins, seals, whales and seabirds in their natural habitat. And stop at the Falkland Islands, a haven for endemic birdlife, before crossing the famous Drake Passage back to Ushuaia where your voyage ends

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Perfect for travellers who like peace of mind that everything is taken care of

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Day-by-Day Itinerary

Sail from Ushuaia into the Southern Ocean for a true expedition loop that pairs the wildlife rich Falklands with the raw, historic grandeur of South Georgia, then carries you on to the ice and wildlife of the Antarctic Peninsula before returning across the Drake. Each day blends time ashore and on the water with Zodiac cruising and expert led briefings that bring every landing to life.

Itinerary route map

NOTE: This itinerary provides general information about each destination. Also, please be aware that some of the venues and highlights mentioned may not be open or accessible on the day we visit. For the most accurate tour program, we recommend contacting your Swan Hellenic agent or travel agent closer to your departure date.

Overview

Day 1. Ushuaia

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Nestled in the foothills of the snow-capped Martial Range, Ushuaia’s colourful streets and mismatched buildings cascade from the imposing mountains before coming to an abrupt halt at the shores of the Beagle Channel. As one of the world’s southernmost cities, Ushuaia carries its ‘end of the world’ reputation well. The moody weather and dramatic surroundings certainly help. Board your boutique ship before departing for your journey through one of the most captivating wilderness regions of the world

Day 2. Day at sea

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Sea days are rarely dull. Take the time to sit back and let the world go by. The ship’s observation decks provide stunning views of the passing ocean. A day at sea gives you the opportunity to mingle with other passengers and share your experiences of this incredible trip or head to our library which is stocked full of reference books. Get an expert’s view in one of our on-board lectures or perhaps perfect your photography skills with invaluable advice from our onboard professional photographers

Day 3. West Point Island

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Birdlife is the big draw on this lush sheep-farming island, where thousands of rams and ewes roam. Settled by British explorers in 1765, the island’s unique scenery includes golden sand beaches filled with the cacophony of rockhopper, gentoo and Magellanic penguin colonies, and the pillar-shaped nests of black-browed albatross. Nine of the Falklands’ 14 endemic plants, including silvery buttercup and hairy daisy, grow here and are a real treat

Day 3. Saunders Island

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Black-browed albatross grace the skies over this remote Falkland Island, while Commerson's dolphins play in its waters. With a sparse population of people and sheep, the island is also a sanctuary for fur seals, rockhopper penguins, Magellanic penguins and imperial cormorants, nesting amid its cliffs and the impressive Cliff Mountain. Hiking through the moss-covered terrain unveils beautiful wildflowers like pink-petalled Felton's

Day 4. Port Stanley

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Anyone familiar with Britain’s trademark red post boxes might spot a resemblance in this British outpost. Port Stanley, on East Falkland, is the tiny capital of the Falkland Islands and is small enough to get around on foot. The Historic Dockyard Museum is devoted to maritime history and exploration. Magellanic penguins gather on the beach at nearby Gypsy Cove, and sea lions and dolphins frolic in the harbour

Activities:

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Included

Mount William Hike

4 hours

Lace up your boots for a scenic mountain hike in East Falkland and tackle the iconic peaks of Mount William and Mount Tumbledown. Guided by an expert, you'll be rewarded with breathtaking panoramic views from Mount William, overlooking Stanley, Port William, and the historic battlefields of the 1982 conflict. Please note, penguins are not part of this tour, but the stunning landscapes and history more than make up for it

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Included

Falklands Nature Trek

3 hours

Experience the Falklands' natural beauty firsthand on this exhilarating 3.5-mile guided walk. Starting at Whalebone Cove on East Falkland, you'll traverse diverse and challenging terrain, encountering local flora and fauna along the way. Enjoy stunning coastal views and vistas of Stanley as your expert guide provides fascinating insights into the region's wildlife, complete with an illustrated checklist to enhance your experience.

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Included

Stanley Highlights

2 hours

Step into Falklands’ history on this bus tour blending scenic beauty with cultural insights. Drive along Ross Road, spotting landmarks like the 1982 Battle Memorial, whalebone displays and Brunel's SS Great Britain mizzenmast. Take in stunning views of Stanley and the Lady Elizabeth wreck, discover local flora and fauna, and learn about Falkland island life and heritage. The tour ends at the Historic Dockyard Museum or Jetty Visitor Centre.

Days 5-6. Day at sea

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Sea days are rarely dull. Take the time to sit back and let the world go by. The ship’s observation decks provide stunning views of the passing ocean. A day at sea gives you the opportunity to mingle with other passengers and share your experiences of this incredible trip or head to our library which is stocked full of reference books. Get an expert’s view in one of our on-board lectures or perhaps perfect your photography skills with invaluable advice from our onboard professional photographers

Days 7-9. South Georgia

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Often called the 'Galapagos of the Poles,' South Georgia has a number of landing sites with tens of thousands of King Penguins and gentoo penguins, making up some of the largest populations in the world alongside harrumphing elephant seals. Among its remarkable sites is Grytviken, the historic whaling station where legendary British explorer Ernest Shackleton (1874–1922) is laid to rest

Day 10. Day at sea

Day image 1

Sea days are rarely dull. Take the time to sit back and let the world go by. The ship’s observation decks provide stunning views of the passing ocean. A day at sea gives you the opportunity to mingle with other passengers and share your experiences of this incredible trip or head to our library which is stocked full of reference books. Get an expert’s view in one of our on-board lectures or perhaps perfect your photography skills with invaluable advice from our onboard professional photographers

Days 11-15. Antarctic Peninsula

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Among captivating glaciers, majestic icebergs and snowy islands, the Antarctic Peninsula is where most visitors to the White Continent live their Antarctica dream. It's the most accessible part, with scientific bases and incredible scenery, like the photogenic Lemaire Channel. Shore excursions might include Mikkelsen Harbour, where among gentoo penguins, snowy sheathbills and skuas, Antarctic Weddell seals haul out

Activities:

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Included

Snowshoeing in Antarctica

Snowshoeing in Antarctica offers an incredible way to explore the pristine, icy landscapes and experience the vast wilderness of the polar region. It allows adventurers to traverse deep snow and enjoy unique views of dramatic glaciers, icebergs, and diverse wildlife in a quiet, immersive setting. Expert guides will lead the way, ensuring a safe and memorable experience. Please note that snowshoeing depends on weather conditions, and snow levels may vary by season and location.

Days 16-17. Day at sea

Day image 1

Sea days are rarely dull. Take the time to sit back and let the world go by. The ship’s observation decks provide stunning views of the passing ocean. A day at sea gives you the opportunity to mingle with other passengers and share your experiences of this incredible trip or head to our library which is stocked full of reference books. Get an expert’s view in one of our on-board lectures or perhaps perfect your photography skills with invaluable advice from our onboard professional photographers

Day 18. Ushuaia

Day image 1

Nestled in the foothills of the snow-capped Martial Range, Ushuaia’s colourful streets and mismatched buildings cascade from the imposing mountains before coming to an abrupt halt at the shores of the Beagle Channel. As one of the world’s southernmost cities, Ushuaia carries its ‘end of the world’ reputation well. The moody weather and dramatic surroundings certainly help. Board your boutique ship before departing for your journey through one of the most captivating wilderness regions of the world.