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Falklands, South Georgia & Antarctica 20 Days | Plancius

20 Days
From AUD 20,530

STYLE: Small Ship Expedition Cruise 

Trip Code: ACOWSF20

DIFFICULTY RATING: 2 (light adventure)

Start: Ushuaia, Argentina

Finish: Ushuaia, Argentina

SHIP: Plancius

DestinationDestination

Antarctic Peninsula, Falkland Islands, South Georgia

DestinationDeparture Date

06/12/2024

MealsMeals

All Meals Onboard The Ship

TransportTransport

Group Transfers On  Disembarkation to the Airport 

TransportAccommodation

Cabin on board a ship



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Included SightseeingIncluded Sightseeing

Daily Antarctica Landings, Zodiac Cruising, Onboard Expert Lectures & Briefings by the Experienced Expedition Team

OVERVIEW

This ultimate journey takes us to the Falkland Islands, South Georgia and the Antarctic Peninsula over 20 days. Embarking in Ushuaia, the world's most southerly city, we will spend some time on the open ocean before arriving at our first destination - the Falkland Islands. Hiking, history and wildlife encounters await. South Georgia is our second destination and we will cross the chilly Antarctic Convergence en route. Wild and teeming with nature, South Georgia is a truly adventurous destination. The finale of this voyage takes us to the Antarctic Peninsual where we will hopefully have the chance to set foot on the White Continent.

ITINERARY

Embarkation in Ushuaia

Your voyage begins where the world drops off. Ushuaia, Argentina, reputed to be the southernmost city on the planet, is located on the far southern tip of South America. Starting in the afternoon, you embark from this small resort town on Tierra del Fuego, nicknamed “The End of the World,” and sail the mountain-fringed Beagle Channel for the remainder of the evening.

At Sea

Several species of albatross follow the vessel into the westerlies, along with storm petrels, shearwaters, and diving petrels.

Falklands, Carcass Island, Saunders Island

The Falkland Islands offer an abundance of wildlife that is easily approachable, though caution is always advised. These islands are largely unknown gems, the site of a 1982 war between the UK and Argentina. Not only do various species of bird live here, but chances are great you’ll see both Peale’s dolphins and Commerson’s dolphins in the surrounding waters.

During this segment of the voyage, you may visit the following sites:

Carcass Island – Despite its name, this island is pleasantly rodent-free. But it is bounteous with birdlife as well as many endemic species Anything from breeding Magellanic penguins and gentoos to numerous waders and passerine birds (including Cobb’s wrens and tussock-birds) live here.

Saunders Island – Here you can see the black-browed albatross and its sometimes-clumsy landings, along with breeding imperial shags and rockhopper penguins. King penguins, Magellanic penguins, and gentoos are also found on Saunders Island.

Falklands, Stanley

The capital of the Falklands and center of its culture, Stanley is a great place to enjoy some Victorian-era charm: colorful houses, well-tended gardens, and English-style pubs abound here. You can also see several century-old clipper ships nearby, silent witnesses to the hardships of 19th century sailors. The local museum is also worth a visit and offers free admission, covering the early days of settlement up to the Falklands War. Approximately 2,500 people currently live in Stanley.

South Falklands - Day 5

The seldom-visited southern islands are a rare treat, and we’ll aim to give you a thorough tour of their rugged beauty. This area is a haven for wildlife of many types, especially birdlife. George Island and Barren Island in particular support more than 40 bird species, along with roughly 650 pairs of southern giant petrels. You also have a good chance of spotting elephant seals and southern sea lion colonies.

At Sea - Day 6 & 7

En route to South Georgia, you now cross the Antarctic Convergence. The temperature cools considerably within the space of a few hours, and nutritious water rises to the surface of the sea due to colliding water columns. This phenomenon attracts a multitude of seabirds near the ship, including several species of albatross, shearwaters, petrels, prions, and skuas.

South Georgia, Salisbury Plain - Day 8 to 11

Today you arrive at the first South Georgia activity site. Please keep in mind that weather conditions in this area can be challenging, largely dictating the program.

Over the next several days, you have a chance to visit the following sites:

Prion Island – This location is closed during the early part of the wandering albatross breeding season (November 20 – January 7). From January on, the breeding adults have found their partners and are sitting on eggs or nursing their chicks. Enjoy witnessing the gentle nature of these animals, which possess the largest wingspan of any bird in the world.

Fortuna Bay – A beautiful outwash plain from Fortuna Glacier is home to a large number of king penguins and seals. Here you may also have the chance to follow the final leg of Shackleton’s route to the abandoned whaling village of Stromness. This path cuts across the mountain pass beyond Shackleton’s Waterfall, and as the terrain is partly swampy, be prepared to cross a few small streams.

Salisbury Plain, St. Andrews Bay, Gold Harbour – These sites not only house the three largest king penguin colonies in South Georgia, they’re also three of the world’s largest breeding beaches for Antarctic fur seals. Literally millions of these animals breed on South Georgia during December and January, but only during the mid-season do they peak in their breeding cycle. You may also see some young adult elephant seals as well as this seasons "weaners" young elephant seals that have been left to fend for themselves. Watch your step and stay calm when walking the beaches during this time.

Grytviken – In this abandoned whaling station, king penguins walk the streets and elephant seals lie around like they own the place – because they basically do. Here you might be able to see the fascinating South Georgia Museum as well as Shackleton’s grave.

Depending on the conditions, we will start sailing toward the South Orkney Islands in the afternoon of day 11

At Sea

There may be sea ice on this route, and at the edge of the ice some south polar skuas and snow petrels could join the other seabirds trailing the vessel south.

South Orkney

Conditions permitting, you might visit Orcadas Base today. Orcadas is an Argentine research station on Laurie Island in the South Orkney archipelago. The personnel will happily show you their facility, where you can enjoy expansive views of the surrounding glaciers. If a visit isn’t possible, however, we may instead land in Coronation Island’s Shingle Cove.

At Sea

Enormous icebergs and a fair chance of fin whale sightings ensure there’s never a dull moment on this last sea voyage south. Also, this is your best chance to spot Antarctic petrels.

Weddell Sea - Day 15 to 17

If the ice conditions permit, you now sail into the Weddell Sea. Here colossal tabular icebergs herald your arrival to the eastern side of the Antarctic Peninsula. Paulet Island, with its large population of Adélie penguins, is a possible stop. You might also visit Brown Bluff, located in the ice-clogged Antarctic Sound, where you could get the chance to set foot on the Antarctic Continent itself.

If conditions aren’t favorable to enter the Weddell Sea from the east, the ship will set course for Elephant Island and head into the Bransfield Strait, between the South Shetland Islands and the Antarctic Peninsula. Here you can attempt to access the Antarctic Sound from the northwest.

The breathtaking scenery continues in Bransfield Straight and, if conditions allow, farther south in the Gerlache Strait. Conditions on the Drake Passage determine the exact time of departure.

At Sea - Day 18 to 19

Your return voyage is far from lonely. While crossing the Drake, you’re again greeted by the vast array of seabirds remembered from the passage south. But they seem a little more familiar to you now, and you to them.

Disembark in Ushuaia

Today you disembark in Ushuaia, taking home priceless memories that will accompany you wherever your next adventure lies.

DOWNLOAD ITINERARY PDF
Plancius

Plancius

M/V Plancius started life as an oceanographic research vessel for the Royal Dutch Navy. After a change of owner, the ship underwent a complete refit and refurbishment to be converted into a comfortable ice-strengthened Antarctic vessel.

Accommodating up to 116 passengers, M/V Plancius has 53 cabins, all with private toilet and shower. The cabins range from quadruple, triple and twin porthole cabins to twin cabins with windows, twin deluxe cabins and twin superior cabins that are 21 square metres and feature a queen-size bed. Quadruple cabins include two bunk beds, triple cabins feature 1 bunk bed plus 1 single bed, whilst twin cabins are fitted with 2 single beds.

The ship has a large restaurant/lecture room and a spacious observation lounge with bar and huge panoramic windows. There are large open deck spaces, including full walk-around possibilities on one deck, providing excellent opportunities for wildlife spotting and to feast on the spectacular scenery.

The 10 Zodiacs and 2 gangways ensure a swift Zodiac operation, so no time is wasted getting you ashore to explore the stunning beauty and amazing wildlife of the Antarctic.

Ice Class: Length: 89 m / 293 feet
Breadth: 14.5 m / 47 feetMax
Draft: Cruising
Speed: 12 knots
Electricity: 240 volts Passenger
Capacity:
116

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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.

OPTIONAL ACTIVITIES

Optional Activities vary for each itinerary. Limited spaces available. Contact your Destination Specialist for pricing & availability.

Hiking

Hiking excursions are among the most popular options in Antarctica as many itineraries are short and suitable for people of all ages and fitness levels. Guided hikes lead you to amazing vantage points and allow even closer interaction with local wildlife, so don’t forget to pack your camera!

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Pricing per person & date

Falklands, South Georgia & Antarctica 20 Days | Plancius from AUD 20,530
Departing Ending Duration
06 Dec 2024 25 Dec 2024 20

Important Information

  • Inclusions

    Accommodation onboard your vessel for the duration of the itinerary 
    All meals throughout the voyage aboard the ship including snacks, coffee and tea
    All shore excursions and activities throughout the voyage by Zodiac (excluding adventure activities) 
    Program of lectures by noted naturalists and leadership by experienced expedition staff.
    Free use of rubber boots and snowshoes
    Pre-scheduled group transfers from the vessel to the airport in Ushuaia on disembarkation 
    All miscellaneous service taxes and port charges throughout the programme.
    Comprehensive pre-departure material

    Exclusions

    Airfares to/from disembarkation city 
    Visa fees (if applicable)
    Travel insurance
    Beverages (other than tea & coffee)
    Personal expenses such as laundry, on-board communication(telephone, faxes, email service)
    Gratuities for the crew (recommend US$15 per person per day) 
    Pre and post land arrangements 
    Government arrival or departure taxes (if applicable)
    Optional Adventure Activities 

  • 2 (light adventure)
  • Available upon request. Please contact us for more details. No single supplement will apply if willing to share in selected cabins. 

  • Prices are correct at time of publishing but are subject to change at any time. Price is based on Quad Share. 

    Itinerary is subject to change depending on weather and ice conditions. 

  • Departure Date,  Fuel Surcharges, Cabin Category, Currency Fluctuations, Seasonality & Availability.

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