south georgia salisbury plain king penguins beach istk

Peninsula, Falklands and South Georgia

from £12400 excluding flights

  • 16-22 nights
  • Jan-Mar, Oct-Dec
Home Destinations Polar Antarctica Peninsula, Falklands and South Georgia

Highlights

antarctica zodiac cruise scultped iceberg ae

Enjoy shore landings and Zodiac cruises past glistening icebergs

antarctica mountains and iceberg reflection mk

Marvel at towering mountains and exquisite blue-hued icebergs

south georgia wildlife king penguins2 rh

Visit the world’s largest king penguin rookeries

antarctic peninsula kayaking through icebergs pov istk

Choose from a range of adventure options

antarctica south georgia grytviken old whaling station istk

Learn about the old whaling stations and research facilities

south georgia elephant seals and king penguins st andrews bay istk

See beaches filled with basking elephant and fur seals

Why this trip...

antarctica peninsula ships bow ll choice of vessels white

Choice of vessels

We offer a wide choice of small ships from simple budget-conscious options to purpose-built luxury vessels

Glacier Bay National Park, Alaska immersive exploration white

Immersive exploration

Immerse yourself in your surroundings on a true exploration of remote and spectacular areas

discover the world escorted holiday group whale fjord iceland expertly guided white

Expertly guided

In-depth knowledge and expertise will enrich your experience on this trip

Overview

Experience the abundant wildlife and dramatic landscapes of the Falkland Islands and South Georgia as well as the Antarctic Peninsula on this comprehensive voyage. Considered by many to be one of the most beautiful places on earth, South Georgia has a huge range of wildlife in its bays, harbours and fjords including vast colonies of king penguins.

Enjoy breathtaking scenery comprising icy waterways, sweeping glaciers, icebergs and rugged mountains. In the historic Falklands explore some of the privately owned outer islands that are home to great concentrations of seals and penguins while South Georgia offers a natural wonderland of awe-inspiring grandeur.

South Georgia also played a significant role in the story of Shackleton’s epic Imperial Trans-Antarctic Expedition. With their ship ‘Endurance’ claimed by the sea ice, the crew set out on an incredible journey in open lifeboats across the Southern Ocean, culminating in a hazardous traverse of South Georgia’s mountain range. The settlement of Grytviken is appropriately the resting place of Sir Ernest Shackleton.

The final part of the expedition explores the spectacular Antarctic Peninsula, against a backdrop of mountains and icebergs.

Itinerary

Ushuaia is the southernmost city in the world and the principle departure point for voyages to Antarctica. Sprawling, but with an easygoing atmosphere, this city is surrounded by the sea to the south and the mountains to the north. Overnight at a hotel in Ushuaia.

Board your ship in the afternoon in Ushuaia and sail along the Beagle Channel to start your Antarctic adventure.

There are many activities to keep you engaged while you are at sea. You could learn to identify the seabirds that glide alongside the ship, or attend the illustrated presentations by the Expedition Team. They will prepare you for the shore landings and Zodiac cruising to come.

antarctica wandering albatross istk
antarctica cape petrel in flight istk
Expedition ship on board lecture - Quark

Explore the Falklands archipelago, heading ashore in search of penguins, kelp geese, albatross and more, as well as the chance to meet the residents of this remote British outpost.

gentoo penguins at volunteer point falklands astk
falklands wildlife fur seal sstk
west falkland beach nr stanley istk

Sailing south you will enter Antarctic waters by crossing the Antarctic convergence, an invisible ring around the globe where the cold Southern Ocean meets the warmer waters of the Indian, Pacific and Atlantic Oceans.

After crossing the Southern Ocean, a series of landings are planned around South Georgia, taking in king penguin rookeries, noisy elephant seals, abandoned whaling stations and the grave of Sir Ernest Shackleton.

south georgia king penguins on beach istk
south-georgia-drygalski-fjord-ae
antarctica south georgia abandoned church whaling station grytviken istk

Your journey continues with the voyage south to the Antarctic Peninsula.

On arrival at the Antarctic Peninsula you will encounter towering, glacier-capped mountains rising from a brilliant blue sea, dotted with ice floes and penguin colonies. Listen for calving glaciers, visit historic sites and research stations and set foot on the Great White Continent

antarctica peninsula gentoo penguins istock
antarctic-peninsula-port-lockroy-istk
antarctica adelie penguins on ice davidmerron qe

The Drake Passage crossing is a fitting end to your visit to Antarctica – there may be a chance to see a variety of seabirds on this final stretch of your journey.

You will be transferred to the airport from the ship when you disembark in Ushuaia

  • All voyage itineraries are intended as a guideline only – embracing the unexpected is part of the legacy of expedition travel. Actual routes and landings will be dependent on weather, sea and ice conditions. A degree of flexibility is essential in the polar regions!
  • The above sample itinerary is based on the 21-day voyage on the G Expedition. Other departures may vary in duration and routing, i.e alternative embarkation or disembarkation ports, or do not include the pre-voyage hotel night. Please contact us for specific details.

Vessel Finder

There are a choice of vessels available for this voyage. Compare the facilities of up to three ships at a glance then talk to our Travel Specialists who will be happy to advise which one is right for you.

ms expedition polar vessel

G Expedition

The ever-popular G Expedition offers spacious and comfortable accommodation at an affordable price.

  • Passengers: 134
  • Class: Ice-strengthened
  • Sauna
  • Jacket: Jacket to keep
  • Rubber Boots: Loan of rubber boots
  • Optional Activities
aurora-ae-expeditions-cabin-balcony-staterooms-render-douglas-mawson-interior-1

Douglas Mawson

The sister ship to the Greg Mortimer and Sylvia Earle, the Douglas Mawson sets sail in 2025. With up to 130 passengers,…

  • Passengers: 130
  • Class: Ice-strengthened
  • Balcony Cabins
  • Pool/Hot tub
  • Sauna
  • Jacket: Jacket to keep
  • Rubber Boots: Loan of rubber boots
  • Optional Activities
greg mortimer mountains backdrop

Greg Mortimer

This custom-built expedition ship features cutting-edge design, superior comfort for 130 passengers and environmentally friendly technology.

  • Passengers: 130
  • Class: Ice-strengthened
  • Balcony Cabins
  • Sauna
  • Jacket: Jacket to keep
  • Rubber Boots: Loan of rubber boots
  • Optional Activities
sylvia-earle-expedition-ship-exterior

Sylvia Earle

The sister ship to the Greg Mortimer, the Sylvia Earle features the same cutting-edge design, superior comfort and environmentally friendly technology for…

  • Passengers: 130
  • Class: Ice-strengthened
  • Balcony Cabins
  • Pool/Hot tub
  • Sauna
  • Jacket: Jacket to keep
  • Rubber Boots: Loan of rubber boots
  • Optional Activities
intrepid-travel-ocean-endeavour-exterior

Ocean Endeavour

The Ocean Endeavour is a bright and spacious purpose-built expedition ship, with excellent facilities, a range of optional activities and a focus…

  • Passengers: 199
  • Class: Ice-strengthened
  • Pool/Hot tub
  • Sauna
  • Jacket: Jacket to keep
  • Rubber Boots: Loan of boots
  • Optional Activities
sea spirit stern pos

Sea Spirit

This all-suite vessel couples adventure with spacious accommodation and a friendly atmosphere.

  • Passengers: 114
  • Class: Ice-strengthened
  • Balcony Cabins
  • Jacket: Jacket to keep
  • Rubber Boots: Loan of rubber boots
  • Optional Activities
ultramarine expedition ship exterior

Ultramarine

The spacious Ultramarine is a purpose-built expedition ship, offering a choice of adventure activities as well as the chance to explore by…

  • Passengers: 199
  • Class: Ice-strengthened
  • Balcony Cabins
  • Sauna
  • Helicopter: on board
  • Jacket: Jacket to keep
  • Rubber Boots: Loan of rubber boots
  • Optional Activities
world explorer exterior quark lauritz schonfeld

World Explorer

The World Explorer is a new state of the art, purpose-built expedition vessel, among the fastest and most luxurious in our fleet…

  • Passengers: 176
  • Class: Ice-strengthened
  • Balcony Cabins
  • Pool/Hot tub
  • Sauna
  • Jacket: Jacket to keep
  • Rubber Boots: Loan of rubber boots
  • Optional Activities
quark-ocean-explorer-exterior-panorama

Ocean Explorer

A purpose-built expedition ship offering ample deck space and generously sized cabins, the Ocean Explorer’s innovative design has been meticulously crafted specifically…

  • Passengers: 138
  • Class: Ice-strengthened
  • Balcony Cabins
  • Pool/Hot tub
  • Sauna
  • Jacket: Jacket to keep
  • Rubber Boots: Loan of rubber boots
  • Optional Activities
ocean-albatros-expedition-ship

Ocean Albatros

Part of a brand new generation of low-energy small ships, custom built for Polar expedition cruising, Ocean Albatros is the sister ship…

  • Passengers: 189
  • Class: Ice-strengthened
  • Balcony Cabins
  • Pool/Hot tub
  • Sauna
  • Rubber Boots: Loan of rubber boots
  • Optional Activities
ms-seaventure-exterior-front

Seaventure

A classic and strong Polar expedition ship, the MS Seaventure immerses passengers in their surroundings with opportunities to participate in important scientific…

  • Passengers: 139
  • Class: Ice-strengthened
  • Balcony Cabins
  • Pool/Hot tub
  • Sauna
  • Jacket: Jacket to keep
  • Rubber Boots: Load of Rubber boots
  • Optional Activities
antarctica ortelius ship sailing through icy waters

M/V Ortelius

A former scientific-research vessel, the Ortelius offers the classic small ship experience.

  • Passengers: 116
  • Class: Ice-strengthened
  • Helicopter: on selected dates
  • Rubber Boots: Loan of rubber boots
  • Optional Activities
oceanwide-plancius-exterior

M/V Plancius

The M/V Plancius is a traditional ex-research vessel, with proven experience in icy waters.

  • Passengers: 116
  • Class: Ice-strengthened
  • Rubber Boots: Loan of rubber boots
  • Optional Activities
hondius exterior view ocnwde

M/V Hondius

The M/V Hondius is one of the strongest vessels of its category in the polar regions.

  • Passengers: 174
  • Class: Ice-strengthened
  • Rubber Boots: Loan of rubber boots
  • Optional Activities
ocean-victory-external-side

Ocean Victory

Part of a brand new generation of low-energy small ships, specifically designed for Polar expedition cruising, Ocean Victory is the sister ship…

  • Passengers: 185
  • Class: Ice-strengthened
  • Balcony Cabins
  • Pool/Hot tub
  • Sauna
  • Rubber Boots: Loan of rubber boots
  • Optional Activities

Select 2-3 items to compare.

Special Interest Departures

Guest Photographers:

Seaventure – 01 Nov 2024 – Ami Vitale

Embark on a unique voyage with award-winning photographer Ami Vitale, a Nikon Ambassador and National Geographic artist. With over three decades of experience, Ami’s iconic images and stories beautifully portray the interdependence of humanity and our planet’s well-being. As the founder of Vital Impacts, she actively fosters a global network of environmental storytellers, using art and advocacy to inspire planetary change-makers. During your voyage, receive valuable guidance from Ami on capturing your breathtaking surroundings and participate in personalised photo reviews for constructive feedback on your images.

 

Sea Spirit – 02 Nov 2024 – Rick Sammon

On this special departure, join award-winning photographer, Rick Sammon, for a voyage with a twist. Rick has travelled to more than 100 countries during his photographic career and his photos have been published in numerous newspapers, magazines, in addition to the 39 books he has produced. In recognition of his talent and influence, Rick has been named a Canon Explorer of Light. Rick will provide a photo workshop on the ship and will assist with image processing, helping transform snapshots into great, memorable images.

 

Prices and Departures

Price from £12400 excluding flights

Airfares are quoted separately to the holiday price. When enquiring, our Travel Specialists will provide the best fare possible from your preferred airline / airport.
Note: Airfares tend to be cheaper the earlier you book.

Voyage prices shown are standard but you can be assured that any relevant offers will be applied with your quote.

What's Included

  • Shipboard accommodation
  • All breakfasts, lunches & dinners on board
  • Tea & coffee available around the clock
  • All Zodiac transfers, cruising & shore landings
  • Presentations by the Expedition Team and guest speakers
  • Loan of rubber boots during voyage
  • All miscellaneous service taxes and port charges
  • 24 hour emergency assistance from our team during your holiday
  • No surcharge guarantee
  • Full financial protection

2024/25 Departures

Prices are per person, based on a twin cabin. The indicative prices shown in the table below are the standard voyage fare and do not reflect any applicable special offers or discounts. Single, triple and quad cabins are also available. Please get in touch for a tailored quote based on the best available price for your preferred voyage and cabin type.

Departure Duration Vessel Activities Prices from (pp) Special Interest
18 Oct 2024 21 days M/V Plancius £13,727
22 Oct 2024 22 days G Expedition £13,799
24 Oct 2024 21 days Sylvia Earle £21,196
30 Oct 2024 21 days Ocean Endeavour £12,400
01 Nov 2024 19 days Ocean Victory £16,556
01 Nov 2024 21 days MS Seaventure £18,212 Photography focus. Citizen Science
02 Nov 2024 17 days Sea Spirit £16,995 Photography focus
04 Nov 2024 20 days Ocean Explorer £23,900
17 Nov 2024 21 days Sea Spirit £19,595
19 Nov 2024 18 days Ocean Albatros £16,636
19 Nov 2024 21 days Greg Mortimer £21,516
02 Dec 2024 21 days Sylvia Earle £23,356
06 Dec 2024 20 days M/V Plancius £13,864
10 Dec 2024 20 days M/V Ortelius £13,864
16 Dec 2024 23 days Ultramarine £37,900
18 Dec 2024 18 days Ocean Victory £16,396
18 Dec 2024 21 days Greg Mortimer £23,516
17 Dec 2024 19 days M/V Hondius £13,773
19 Dec 2024 20 days Ocean Explorer £26,400
28 Dec 2024 21 days MS Seaventure £20,948 Citizen Science
02 Jan 2025 20 days Sylvia Earle £25,196
04 Jan 2025 18 days Ocean Albatros £18,236
04 Jan 2025 19 days M/V Hondius £14,864
05 Jan 2025 AC 23 days Ocean Endeavour £16,000
05 Jan 2025 21 days Sea Spirit £22,395
11 Jan 2025 21 days G Expedition £18,799
16 Jan 2025 19 days M/V Plancius £16,000
30 Jan 2025 23 days Sylvia Earle £27,436
01 Feb 2025 20 days M/V Hondius £14,864
20 Feb 2025 23 days M/V Hondius £15,864
26 Feb 2025 23 days Sea Spirit £18,595
26 Feb 2025 21 days Seaventure £18,212
06 Mar 2025 19 days Ocean Victory £16,796

AC: This departure attempts to cross the Antarctic Circle

2025/26 Departures

Prices are per person, based on a twin cabin. The indicative prices shown in the table below are the standard voyage fare and do not reflect any applicable special offers or discounts. Single, triple and quad cabins are also available. Please get in touch for a tailored quote based on the best available price for your preferred voyage and cabin type.

Departure Duration Vessel Activities Prices from (pp) Special Interest
22 Oct 2025 22 days G Expedition £15,199
22 Oct 2025 21 days Greg Mortimer £20,956
22 Oct 2025 21 days M/V Ortelius £14,409
28 Oct 2025 21 days M/V Hondius £14,545
09 Nov 2025 21 days Sea Spirit £19,595
13 Nov 2025 20 days Ocean Explorer £22,795
27 Nov 2025 20 days M/V Plancius £14,545
28 Nov 2025 21 days Sea Spirit £19,595
11 Dec 2025 19 days M/V Ortelius £14,545
16 Dec 2025 19 days Ocean Albatros £16,876
16 Dec 2025 18 days Ocean Victory £15,996
20 Dec 2025 23 days Sylvia Earle £28,156
21 Dec 2025 19 days M/V Hondius £15,818
27 Dec 2025 23 days Greg Mortimer £26,556
28 Dec 2025 20 days Seaventure £21,476 Citizen Science
06 Jan 2026 21 days Sea Spirit £22,395
10 Jan 2026 21 days Sylvia Earle £25,916
11 Jan 2026 21 days G Expedition £19,999
18 Jan 2026 23 days Ultramarine £38,995
19 Jan 2026 19 days M/V Plancius £16,818
28 Jan 2026 20 days M/V Hondius £16,955
16 Feb 2026 23 days M/V Hondius £17,864
25 Feb 2026 20 days Seaventure £18,668 Citizen Science
27 Feb 2026 23 days Sea Spirit £18,595
28 Feb 2026 20 days Sylvia Earle £25,596
04 Mar 2026 24 days Greg Mortimer £23,836
11 Mar 2026 22 days Douglas Mawson £22,396

Activity Icon Key

  • Camping
  • Cross-country skiing
  • Diving
  • Kayak taster session
  • Kayaking
  • Mountaineering
  • Paddleboarding
  • Photography
  • Ski-touring
  • Snorkelling
  • Snow-shoeing

NOTES

  • Inclusions are dependent on the vessel chosen, though those referenced above are applicable to all
  • Two pre-voyage nights in a hotel are included on voyages aboard the MS Seaventure 2024/25 season
  • One pre-voyage night in a hotel are included with all other ships apart from, M/V Plancius, M/V Hondius and M/V Ortelius
  • Participation in Citizen Science projects is available on voyages aboard the MS Seaventure, Greg Mortimer, Sylvia Earle and Douglas Mawson

How To Book BG Large

Personalised adventures. Trusted expertise.

Adventure, Your Way

Our tailor made approach means you can think of us as your personal planning service.

Every Trip is an Original

Whatever the brief we'll create an amazing trip to get excited about. We give you on tap knowledge.

Here's the Plan

View your trip itinerary along with travel tips and maps with our online portal and travel app.

24/7 On Trip Support

No-one likes a plot twist. As standard we provide complete piece of mind with our in country 24/7 support and guidance.

As Standard, Complete Piece of Mind

We’re listening. We always care what our fellow travellers think and love building strong customer relationships so we continuously focus on improving future experiences based on feedback. How incredible for the last three years we have received the Feefo Platinum Award.

The World's Great. Pass it On

To mark our 40th anniversary, we've launched our Education Bursary Fund to help disadvantaged school children experience the wonders of travel. A percentage of revenue from every holiday booked will go into the bursary fund to pay for at least 40 students to join one of our school trips abroad.