Decades of exploring the Antarctic region have given us the expertise needed to uncover important landing sites beyond the Antarctic Peninsula: the South Orkney Islands, the Falkland Islands and South Georgia, perhaps the ultimate destination for jaw-dropping scenery and boundless wildlife. Walk wild beaches with thousands of king penguins or take a rugged hike and kayak where few have gone before – all on the superior vessel, the National Geographic Explorer.　

Day 1: Ushuaia: Embark

You will be met on your arrival at Ushuaia and taken on a catamaran cruise of the Beagle Channel.

Embark your ship in the afternoon.

Day 2: At Sea

Watch for whales and birds as you settle into shipboard life.

Days 3-8: Antarctica

With nearly 24 hours of daylight, it is possible to make the most of the five days exploring the Antarctic Peninsula and its surrounding islands. The schedule is flexible to take advantage of the unexpected.

Cruise in Zodiacs, paddle kayaks, observe penguins. Sail through the incomparable Lemaire Channel and make landings on the "White Continent."

Days 9-10: Elephant Island/At Sea

Pass the speck of land that is the legendary Elephant Island, an unforgettable part of the Shackleton story, where the crew of Endurance finally landed on April 24, 1916. From here, Shackleton and five men set sail for one of the most incredible stories of survival at sea: 700 miles across the Southern Ocean in a 22’-long wooden sailboat.

As you follow in Shackleton’s wake, the on-board experts regale you with his story.

Days 11-15: South Georgia

Renowned for its beauty and vast colonies of king penguins, this is also the final resting place for Sir Ernest Shackleton. Teeming wildlife, breathtaking scenery and soaring cliffs greet you. Hundreds of young Antarctic fur seals are on hand as the Zodiacs make landfall. At St. Andrew’s Bay, you may come upon 100,000 king penguins!

Days 16-17: At Sea

Day 18: Port Stanley, Falklands

See the photogenic, tin-roofed, Victorian-style houses of Port Stanley. Visit the Anglican Cathedral with its archway of whalebones and the Falkland Islands Museum.

Day 19: Falkland Islands

The Falklands boast the largest albatross colony in the world, irresistible Magellanic penguins in their burrows amid green tussock grass and herds of enormous elephant seals.

Day 20: At Sea

Day 21: Ushuaia: Disembark

Disembark in Ushuaia and transfer to the airport for flight out.

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For further ship information on the National Geographic Explorer, click HERE.

Why not spend more time in and around Ushuaia before or after your voyage? Or see more spectacular Patagonia, in El Calafate or Torres del Paine.