Penguins of the Far South: Falklands, South Georgia and Antarctica | Ocean Explorer
- $250 USD/$325 AUD Adventure Option Credit
- 2 Free Visits Priority Pass Airport Lounge
- $100 USD Global Experiences Card
Combinable with advertised discounts & Pay-In-Full Savings
Valid until 30 June 2025
See detailed promotional T&Cs below
20 Days
Save Up To 15%
WAS From USD 27,695 Now From USD 23,679
STYLE: Small Ship Expedition Cruise
Trip Code: ACQEPFSA
DIFFICULTY RATING: 2 (Light Adventure)
Start: Ushuaia, Argentina
Finish: Ushuaia, Argentina
SHIP: Ocean Explorer
Destination
Antarctica, Falkland Islands, South Georgia, Antarctic Peninsula
Meals
Breakfast At Hotel; All Meals, Snacks, Soft Drinks, Juices On Board, Coffee, Tea And Cocoa Throughout Your Voyage; Select Beer, Wines, Spirits, And Cocktails During Bar Service Hours And Dinner
Transport
Group Transfers Throughout
Accommodation
Hotel & Cabin On Board Ship
DEPARTURE DATES
Enquire Now
Included Sightseeing
Daily Antarctica Excursions, Zodiac Cruising, Onboard Expert Lectures & Briefings By The Experienced Expedition Team
NOTE: Itinerary Is Subject To Change Depending On Weather & Ice Conditions
OVERVIEW
The Antarctic region offers incredible experiences. This 20-day itinerary takes you to the often-overlooked Falkland Islands and South Georgia, before reaching Antarctica. In the Falklands, you can explore the charming village of Stanley, walk along sandy dunes, and enjoy birdwatching. South Georgia offers beaches where king penguins breed, surrounded by abundant wildlife. Afterward, you’ll journey to the Antarctic Peninsula, a stunning region of ice, snow, and natural beauty. Throughout the trip, you’ll have opportunities to engage in various activities and take part in educational programs. Antarctica has inspired explorers for centuries, and this expedition offers a chance to experience its wonders.
ITINERARY
Your gateway for this expedition is Ushuaia, Argentina. Located within the Tierra del Fuego archipelago, Ushuaia has a small-town feel yet boasts many shops, museums, cafés and restaurants that you can enjoy before your voyage. If you’re feeling adventurous, the nearby Tierra del Fuego National Park and Martial Glacier offer plenty of outdoor activities, such as hiking.
As you embark, the anticipation grows. Trade your land legs for sea legs, meet and greet your fellow travelers and get acquainted with your ship. Since every Antarctic adventure presents new opportunities and experiences, embarkation day is just as exciting for your Expedition Team as it is for you. On board your team will be there both to ensure your comfort and safety as well as help make your wildlife dreams come true.
Your days at sea are filled with presentations led by your Expedition Team on photography, wildlife, glaciology, and history. In between presentations, spend time on deck looking for wildlife or chatting with your shipmates over a drink at the bar.
Upon your arrival in the Falklands (Malvinas), your camera will get its first real workout capturing the abundant wildlife and rugged feel of this sub- Antarctic region. The archipelago contains two main islands, East Falkland and West Falkland, which you will explore during daily excursions.
Stanley, also known as Port Stanley, is often a favored landing site, as the town offers a unique British outpost feel, complete with eclectic charm. You’ll be free to explore, grab a pint at the local pub or visit the cathedral and museum.
In terms of wildlife, the archipelago is home to Magellanic, gentoo and southern rockhopper penguins. If you’re lucky, you may even spot king penguins here as well! You can expect to see black- browed albatross, plus two endemic bird species—the flightless Falkland steamer duck and, possibly, the elusive Cobb’s wren.
Your expert education team will enrich your understanding of the local flora and fauna, making the most out of your time in the Falklands.
Sailing southeast to South Georgia, you’ll officially enter Antarctic waters once you cross the Antarctic Convergence, an invisible biological boundary encircling the continent. This meeting of oceans, where the cold Antarctic waters mix and mingle with the warmer waters of the Indian, Pacific and Atlantic Oceans, helps nourish the abundance of krill that attracts whales, seals, and birdlife to this part of the world. Your Expedition Team will notify you when you cross this invisible yet important line, and also look out for the seabirds and marine life that frequent this nutrient-rich area.
This remote, mountainous island was a popular stop for many historic Antarctic expeditions and was once known for whale– and seal–hunting. Today, island wildlife populations are rebounding, but you’ll still see remnants of old whaling stations and other abandoned outposts.
One significant and historic site is the grave of the great explorer Sir Ernest Shackleton. You can visit his grave at the settlement of Grytviken, which is also home to an old whaling station, plus a museum, gift shop, church and small research station.
Although South Georgia’s history is an important attraction to the island, its incredible densities of wildlife make it truly memorable. Each landing you make on South Georgia, often referred to as the Galapagos of the Southern Sea, will open your eyes to the wondrous lives of new, enthralling creatures.
One day you may see colonies with hundreds of thousands of pairs of king penguins waddling on shore, and the next, you may visit another beach inhabited by hundreds of fur or elephant seals. The grasses, mountains and beaches of South Georgia all play an important role in the breeding and survival of different species on the island. This fragile and interwoven relationship is something your Expedition Team will instill in you during your time here.
Say goodbye to the king penguins as you leave for your next destination: Antarctica! Your days at sea are filled with presentations, workshops, and social activities led by your Expedition Team.
If conditions allow, we may attempt landfall on the South Orkney Islands, our first official stop in Antarctica.
The most common reaction upon reaching the Antarctic Continent is a sense of reverence and awe. The experience is beyond words, since few places are as untouched and enduring as Antarctica.
You will discover that Antarctica is a land of extremes. At one moment you’ll be overcome with a feeling of complete isolation and silence, and at the next moment you’ll be inspired by nature as a calving glacier crashes into a brilliant blue sea or a curious penguin waddles by to observe the human.
Your Expedition Team will take care of you at each excursion, whether you are Zodiac cruising, visiting a historical site or consorting with penguin colonies.
Chinstrap, Adélie and gentoo penguins are found here, along with Weddell, fur, crabeater and leopard seals. During Zodiac cruises, keep an eye out for Antarctic whales such as minkes, as you may get a chance for an intimate experience with these majestic animals. Each day and each excursion will present a new collection of creatures to entertain you and keep your camera busy.
As exciting as the Zodiac excursions and landings are, perhaps you’ll treat yourself to an extra-special Antarctic experience by partaking in an optional paddling excursion (at an extra cost) or cast reason aside and jump into Antarctic waters for the Polar Plunge!
After more than two weeks of endless wildlife encounters, your journey home begins. Crossing the Drake is your unofficial rite of passage, completing your Antarctic adventure. Enjoy your final moments celebrating with your fellow shipmates and savor the silence of the sea as long as you can.
After breakfast aboard the ship, it is time to part ways and say goodbye to your Expedition Team. Airport transfers will be provided for those departing on the first homeward flights. Other guests will be transferred to town.
*Please note: Cruise itinerary is subject to change depending on weather conditions, ice conditions and other factors.
WHY CHOOSE THIS CRUISE?
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Visit St. Andrew’s Bay on South Georgia to see 150,000 pairs of king penguins
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Wander through the charming British town of Stanley and trace the historic routes of Sir Ernest Shackleton’s voyages to South Georgia
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Explore the Antarctic Peninsula by ship, Zodiac, kayak, and foot, while enjoying presentations by onboard polar experts and the option to join a kayaking excursion
Ocean Explorer
Utilising the best ships and expedition crew is necessary to venture further in the Polar Regions. We have both of them. In terms of elegance, adventure, and cutting-edge technology, Ocean Explorer is the ideal complement to our fleet. For our sophisticated polar explorers, Ocean Explorer enhances the polar experience on all fronts. The Ulstein X-Bow, the industry-leading X-Bow design, ensures that your clients will glide through even the roughest waves with ease. In any polar sea state, the ship's distinctive forward-sloping X-Bow reduces vibration, noise, and impact for a comfortable ride. The ship is equipped with the newest sustainability technologies, including fuel-efficient Rolls-Royce engines and the revolutionary MAGS gasification system, which turns garbage into energy and reduces the environmental effect of waste transportation. Equipped with a fleet of 15 Zodiacs and four distinct sea-level embarkation locations, Ocean Explorer provides a wide range of off-ship experiences, such as Zodiac cruising and kayaking, enabling your guests to experience a close-up encounter with the Antarctic and Arctic wilderness. Every interior feature on board, including the striking two-story forward lounge, the floor to ceiling glass retreat in the library, and the elegant fittings and furniture throughout the ship, has been meticulously chosen by designers to ensure that visitors have a wonderful experience. The roomy and opulent cabins guarantee your guests a peaceful stay free from noise pollution from nearby rooms, and nearly every cabin has an outdoor balcony. Two outdoor Jacuzzis and a dry sauna are available for your clients to relax in after a full day of activities off-ship.
Ice Class:
Length: 342 ft (104.4 m)
Breadth: 60.3 ft (18.4 m)Max
Draft: Cruising
Speed:
Electricity: 220V (European) & USB-A ports in night lights Passenger
Capacity:138
View Ship Details
Accommodation
We believe that appropriate accommodation should add to the authentic travel experience, as well as providing utmost enjoyment. For that reason our accommodation is scrutinised by our staff on the ground frequently, ensuring the properties adhere to our high standards. This key will help you understand the levels of accommodation available on this tour.
Standard
Comfortable properties with dependable facilities and service.
Superior
Comfortable properties with dependable facilities and service.
Deluxe
Luxurious properties with impeccable facilities and service.
Included ACTIVITIES
These are included in your cruise fare. Activities vary by itinerary and destination and are subject to regulations, weather conditions and other factors.
OPTIONAL ADVENTURES ADD ONS
These can be booked in advance at an extra cost. Activities vary by itinerary and destination.
Kayaking
Experience the unforgettable thrill and serenity of kayaking in Antarctica as part of a small, expertly guided paddling group.
Learn More
Pricing per person
 | Junior SuiteFeatures:- Located on Deck 6 and approximately 298 sq. f. (27.7 sq. m,) in size. These 2-room suites have one double bed that can be configured into two singles in the inner bedroom and an outer sitting room furnished with a sofa-bed, and activity table for two. From the bedroom there a floor to ceiling glass view that opens to a double sized walkout balcony. There are also 2 TV's, state of the art 'infotainment' system and private bathroom with bathtub, vanity and heated floor. | 15 % off USD 36,395 USD 31,118Available Enquire Now
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 | Owners SuiteFeatures:- This palatial, airy apartment offers stunning views from its large private veranda on the highest cabin level. The luxurious suite features a large master bedroom, living room and dining area and two large master bathrooms, among other amenities. | 15 % off USD 45,095 USD 38,556Available Enquire Now
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 | Penthouse SuiteFeatures:- This unique 2-room suite is located on Deck 7 and is approximately 269 sq. f (25.0 sq. m.) in size. It has one double bed that can be configured into two singles in the inner bedroom.and the outer sitting area is furnished with a sofa-bed. Walk-out from either room to a double sized balcony . There are also 2 TV's, state of the art 'infotainment' system and private bathroom with shower, vanity and heated floor. And an additional powder room in the outside sitting area. | 15 % off USD 42,195 USD 36,077Available Enquire Now
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 | Veranda StateroomFeatures:- Located throughout the ship and approximately 208 sq. f. (19.3 sq. m,) in size, these cabins have one double bed that can be configured into two singles, and seperate sitting area furnished with two club chairs and a reading table. There is a floor to ceiling glass view that opens to a walkout balcony. There is also a desk and chair, TV, state of the art 'infotainment' system and private bathroom with shower, vanity and heated floor. Note: 611 and 612 do not have the club chairs and a reading table. | 15 % off USD 29,095 USD 24,876Available Enquire Now
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 | Deluxe Veranda ForwardFeatures:- Located on Deck 4 and approximately 182 sq. f. (16.9 sq. m,) in size, these cabins have one double bed that can be configured into two singles. There is a floor to ceiling glass view that opens to a walkout balcony. There is also a desk and chair, TV, state of the art 'infotainment' system and private bathroom with shower, vanity and heated floor. | 15 % off USD 27,695 USD 23,679Unavailable Enquire Now
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 | Studio Veranda SingleFeatures:- Designed for one. This unique cabin is located on Deck 7 and approximately 162 sq. f. (15.1 sq. m.). It has one twin bed with a floor to ceiling glass view that opens to a generous walkout balcony. There is also TV, state of the art 'infotainment' system and private bathroom with shower, vanity and heated floor. | 15 % off USD 39,295 USD 33,597Unavailable Enquire Now
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 | Studio SingleFeatures:- Designed for one. These cabins are located on Deck 3 and approximately 166 sq. ft. (15,4 sq. m,) in size, with one double bed and a porthole view. There is also a desk and chair, TV, state of the art 'infotainment' system and private bathroom with shower, vanity and heated floor. | 15 % off USD 36,395 USD 31,118Available Enquire Now
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 | Veranda SuiteFeatures:- Located throughout the ship and approximately 205 sq. ft. (19.2 sq. m,) in size, these cabins have one double bed that can be configured into two singles, and seperate sitting area furnished with a sofa-bed. There is a floor to ceiling glass view that opens to a walkout balcony. There is also a desk and chair, TV, state of the art 'infotainment' system and private bathroom with shower, vanity and heated floor. | 15 % off USD 30,895 USD 26,415Available Enquire Now
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| Junior SuiteFeatures:- Located on Deck 6 and approximately 298 sq. f. (27.7 sq. m,) in size. These 2-room suites have one double bed that can be configured into two singles in the inner bedroom and an outer sitting room furnished with a sofa-bed, and activity table for two. From the bedroom there a floor to ceiling glass view that opens to a double sized walkout balcony. There are also 2 TV's, state of the art 'infotainment' system and private bathroom with bathtub, vanity and heated floor. | 15 % off USD 36,395 USD 31,118Available Enquire Now
|
| Owners SuiteFeatures:- This palatial, airy apartment offers stunning views from its large private veranda on the highest cabin level. The luxurious suite features a large master bedroom, living room and dining area and two large master bathrooms, among other amenities. | 15 % off USD 45,095 USD 38,556Available Enquire Now
|
| Penthouse SuiteFeatures:- This unique 2-room suite is located on Deck 7 and is approximately 269 sq. f (25.0 sq. m.) in size. It has one double bed that can be configured into two singles in the inner bedroom.and the outer sitting area is furnished with a sofa-bed. Walk-out from either room to a double sized balcony . There are also 2 TV's, state of the art 'infotainment' system and private bathroom with shower, vanity and heated floor. And an additional powder room in the outside sitting area. | 15 % off USD 42,195 USD 36,077Available Enquire Now
|
| Veranda StateroomFeatures:- Located throughout the ship and approximately 208 sq. f. (19.3 sq. m,) in size, these cabins have one double bed that can be configured into two singles, and seperate sitting area furnished with two club chairs and a reading table. There is a floor to ceiling glass view that opens to a walkout balcony. There is also a desk and chair, TV, state of the art 'infotainment' system and private bathroom with shower, vanity and heated floor. Note: 611 and 612 do not have the club chairs and a reading table. | 15 % off USD 29,095 USD 24,876Available Enquire Now
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| Deluxe Veranda ForwardFeatures:- Located on Deck 4 and approximately 182 sq. f. (16.9 sq. m,) in size, these cabins have one double bed that can be configured into two singles. There is a floor to ceiling glass view that opens to a walkout balcony. There is also a desk and chair, TV, state of the art 'infotainment' system and private bathroom with shower, vanity and heated floor. | 15 % off USD 27,695 USD 23,679Available Enquire Now
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| Studio Veranda SingleFeatures:- Designed for one. This unique cabin is located on Deck 7 and approximately 162 sq. f. (15.1 sq. m.). It has one twin bed with a floor to ceiling glass view that opens to a generous walkout balcony. There is also TV, state of the art 'infotainment' system and private bathroom with shower, vanity and heated floor. | 15 % off USD 39,295 USD 33,597Available Enquire Now
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| Studio SingleFeatures:- Designed for one. These cabins are located on Deck 3 and approximately 166 sq. ft. (15,4 sq. m,) in size, with one double bed and a porthole view. There is also a desk and chair, TV, state of the art 'infotainment' system and private bathroom with shower, vanity and heated floor. | 15 % off USD 36,395 USD 31,118Available Enquire Now
|
| Veranda SuiteFeatures:- Located throughout the ship and approximately 205 sq. ft. (19.2 sq. m,) in size, these cabins have one double bed that can be configured into two singles, and seperate sitting area furnished with a sofa-bed. There is a floor to ceiling glass view that opens to a walkout balcony. There is also a desk and chair, TV, state of the art 'infotainment' system and private bathroom with shower, vanity and heated floor. | 15 % off USD 30,895 USD 26,415Available Enquire Now
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EXTEND YOUR TRIP
Important Information
** Early Booking Bonus Offer - 26/27 Antarctica Season
Offer of 3 Bonuses Adventure Option Credit, 2 Free Visits Priority Pass Airport Lounge & $100 USD Global Experiences Card for booking early for the 2026/27 Antarctic voyages. Valid on new bookings until 30 June 2025 and combinable with advertised discounts, pay in full discounts and past passenger discounts and only valid for specified dates within 26/27 Antarctica season. Applies to all cabins on selected voyages. May be withdrawn or varied at any time at the discretion of the cruise operator.
Adventure Option Credit: Book adventure option such as heli-landing, camping, kayaking, paddling, stand-up paddle boarding. Credit is applied to the full RPP brochure price. $325 AUD, $250 USD or U£160 GBP, credit applies. No cash value, name changes not allowed.
2 Free Visits Priority Pass Airport Lounge: Two free visits per passenger to over 1,700 airport lounges where guests can enjoy food, drinks, spa treatments, sleeping pods and more. Unique Priority Pass voucher code(s) will be emailed within 30 days of the voyage departure date. Airport lounge visits are based on availability at time of entry and must be completed within one year of activation. The cruise operator does not operate Priority Pass lounges and cannot be held responsible for any loss, damage or injury that occurs in a Priority Pass lounge for any reason.
$100 USD Global Experiences Card: Can be used to book private transfers to airport or excursions prior to voyage. No cash value, name changes not allowed. Chimu Adventures cannot book any experiences through Global Experiences and these must be booked directly by the guests travelling. The cruise operator does not operate Global Experiences Card and cannot be held responsible for any loss, damage or injury that occurs for any reason.
* Current Discounts, promotions and pricing are available until 30 June 2025, however discounts may be withdrawn or changed at any time and are subject to availability on selected cabins and departure dates. Some current in market offers may be combinable and Shackleton Club Past Passenger and multi trip discounts may be applied subject to confirmation at the time of booking. Prices are subject to change based on currency fluctuations, fuel surcharges, and other external factors. No discount applies to any transfer packages, additional activities or pre/post services. The advertised prices may also include a 'Pay in full at time of booking' which is a 5-10% early payment discount, which requires the full balance to be paid at the time of booking to apply. Further conditions may apply, contact us for more information.NOTE: Pricing is subject to change, currency fluctuation and availability at the time of booking and may be varied without notice by us or any of the operators and partners we work with. It is only confirmed and guaranteed at the time of making a booking, agreeing to our terms and conditions and paying a deposit.
Prices are based on per person, twin share* (unless otherwise stated)
Prices are correct at time of publishing but are subject to change at any time
Itinerary is subject to change depending on weather and ice conditions*
NOTE: The number of guests per room is the same as cabin occupancy on the ship. Due to limited availability, travellers who reserve a suite on board are accommodated in standard rooms at the hotel. Triple rooms may not be available
INCLUSIONS
An expedition parka to keep
All shore landings per the daily program, weather permitting
Shipboard accommodation
All meals, snacks, soft drinks and juices on board throughout your voyage
Select beer, wines, spirits, and cocktails during bar service hours and dinner
Coffee, tea and cocoa around the clock
Presentations by expedition team & special guests
Downloadable photographic journal documenting the expedition
Expedition boots on loan for shore landings
Hairdryer and bathrobe available in every cabin
All miscellaneous service taxes and port charges throughout the program
Luggage handling aboard the ship
Wi-Fi service on one device permitting basic internet browsing, email, posting on social medial and voice applications (Premium packages are available for purchase for more data-intensive applications)
Emergency Evacuation Insurance for all passengers to a maximum benefit of US$500,000 per person
Group arrival transfer in Ushuaia from airport to pre-expedition hotel on Day 1
One night's pre-expedition hotel accommodation in Ushuaia with breakfast
Group transfer from hotel to ship on embarkation day
Group departure transfer upon disembarkation in Ushuaia from ship to local airportEXCLUSIONS
Any airfare unless otherwise specified in the itinerary
Passport and visa expenses
Government arrival and departure taxes
Any meals unless otherwise specified
Travel insurance
Alcohol and bar service does not include spirits
Excess baggage charges
Mandatory waterproof pants for Zodiac cruising, or any other gear not mentioned
Laundry, spa services, bar, beverage and other personal charges unless specified
Telecommunications charges
Data card does not include premium packages which enable more data-intensive applications
Voluntary staff and crew gratuities
Additional overnight accommodation
Arrival and departure transfers, except where stated
Paid Adventure Options
- 2 (Light Adventure)
Available upon request, a supplement surcharge applies and is subject to availability. Please contact us for more information.
Departure date, fuel surcharges, cabin category, currency fluctuations, seasonality and availability.