Skip to main content

Spirit of Shackleton | MS Expedition

21 Days
From AUD 22,499

Trip Code: ACTSSOS

DIFFICULTY RATING: 2 (light adventure)

Start: Ushuaia, Argentina

Finish: Ushuaia, Argentina

SHIP: MS Expedition

DestinationDestination

Falkland Islands, South Georgia, Antarctica

DestinationDeparture Date

11/01/2024, 11/01/2025

TransportAccommodation

Hotel & Cabin Onboard a Ship



Enquire Now
map

OVERVIEW

Experience vast penguin rookeries and seal colonies on this awe-inspiring voyage to Antarctica, South Georgia and the Falkland Islands aboard the M/S Expedition.  This 21-day voyage highlights Ernest Shackleton’s legend and his courageous exploration of Antarctica, visiting historical sites of past explorers and the wildlife rich island of South Georgia, Shackleton’s final resting place. Antarctica is beyond comprehension and sure to amaze any traveller seeking a true adventure to the world’s most remote wilderness.


Pricing is subject to change due to availability and currency fluctuation

ITINERARY

Arrival in Ushuaia

Arrive in Ushuaia at any time. Arrival transfer included. Enjoy the sights and sounds of the world's most southerly city.

Ushuaia Embarkation

Enjoy a free morning in Ushuaia. Do any last minute shopping, explore the town, or visit the surrounding countryside. Embarkation on the G Expedition begins in the afternoon at the port in Ushuaia. Enjoy the evening sailing through the Beagle Channel.

Drake Passage - Days 3 &4

The adventure begins with an 1000km (600mi) crossing of the passage named in honour of the 16th-century English sea captain and privateer, Sir Francis Drake. Take in daily lectures from the expedition team and keep an eye out for the first sightings of icebergs, whales and albatross following in the G Expedition's wake.

The Expedition is at home in this part of the Southern Ocean, known for the unimpeded never ending fetch of the winds that encircle the Antarctic.

As the Expedition crosses the passage there will be time to become acquainted with the ship and frequent the common areas that include the lounge, dining hall, library and lecture hall where we meet our guides, ship’s crew and expedition staff.

Begin lectures and information sessions to learn the extraordinary human and natural history of the Antarctic region.

South Shetland and Peninsula - Days 5 to 9

Experience some of the most unique wildlife and awe-inspiring scenery in the world while setting foot on the Antarctic continent. Weather and ice conditions permitting, our goal is to attempt memorable shore landings daily and encounter Gentoo, Chinstrap, and Adélie penguin rookeries; Weddell, crabeater, and leopard seals; and orca, humpback, and minke whales in the cold Antarctic waters. The peninsula also has a remarkable human history.

Welcome to the Great White Continent! Over the next few days, the Expedition will navigate southwards making stops in the South Shetland Islands then through the Bransfield Strait and to the Antarctic Peninsula.

Our goal is to attempt shore landings daily while we navigate through the area but our itinerary and daily schedule will be based on the local weather and ice conditions that we encounter.

The Antarctic Peninsula and the South Shetland Islands abound with wildlife activity. Take plenty of time to enjoy the sheer beauty and the breathtaking scenery of ice-choked waterways, blue and white icebergs, impressive glaciers and rugged snow-capped mountains.

The Peninsula also has a remarkable history and, during the voyage, opt to learn about some of the most important and dramatic expeditions to this remote corner of the world.

Scotia Sea - Days 10 & 11

Sail for two days, retracing Shackleton's route from Elephant Island and the Antarctic Peninsula towards South Georgia.

These waters are rich with nutrients and the long summer days provide the ingredient that is missing most of the year. The result is a complex food chain topped by several species of whales, seals, and seabirds.

South Georgia - Days 12 to 15

Home to many interesting sights (including the grave of polar explorer Ernest Shackleton), South Georgia has several former whaling stations and boasts plenty of wildlife. Visiting a huge colony of king penguins is a major highlight of this part of the journey. Weather permitting, spend four full days exploring the island.

Weather permitting, four full days will be spent exploring this island. On nearby islands look out for the wandering albatross in their nesting grounds.

Southern Ocean - Days 16 & 17

Sailing west, set course for the Falkland Islands. Days at sea are filled with lectures to prepare for landings. Watch for the many whales that inhabit these waters.

Falkland Islands - Days 18 & 19

The Falkland Islands provide a rare opportunity to witness the biological diversity and extraordinary scenery of the southern islands. Penguins are abundant here, and the Falklands have the largest black-browed albatross colony in the world. In Stanley, meet the hardy local inhabitants whose colourful houses provide contrast to the long, dark winters.

Enjoy the last opportunity to see penguins, including the Magellanic, rockhopper, gentoo, and king penguins. With a little luck, spot elephant seals, sea lions, king cormorants, black-browed albatross, skuas, night herons, giant petrels, striated caracaras and of course sheep.

At Sea

Reflect on a memorable adventure and take in some final lectures en route back to Ushuaia.

Begin the journey to the home port of Ushuaia. Review the highlights of the Antarctic experience with the lecturers and staff.

Ushuaia Disembarkation

Our adventure comes to a close. Have a final breakfast on the ship before saying goodbyes before disembarking in Ushuaia in the morning.

DOWNLOAD ITINERARY PDF

WHY CHOOSE THIS CRUISE?

  • In three weeks, you will gain an extensive Antarctica experience including the Falkland Islands, South Georgia, the South Shetland Islands and the Antarctic Peninsula.

  • This voyage highlights the legendary polar explorer Sir Ernest Shackleton. He led three expeditions to the Antarctic and has become well known for his formidable rescue effort of his crew, who were stranded on Elephant Island.

  • The Falkland Island archipelago offers an abundance of wildlife. It is a paradise for wildlife enthusiasts and photographers alike.

  • Of the many fascinating sites, you will visit Shackleton’s Grave on South Georgia Island.

  • You will have the chance to step foot on the great white continent to experience some of the most unique wildlife and inspiring scenery in the world.

  • While at sea, the expedition team will assist with your Antarctic experience via insights on everything Antarctica - from the history and geology, to the incredible wildlife.

MS Expedition

MS Expedition

Safe, sturdy and fast, the MS Expedition is amongst the most comfortable and spacious expedition ships in its class, with great stability and performance in rough conditions. With a focus on top of the line safety and comfort, the MS Expedition has been transformed into one of the world's leading Polar expedition cruise ships, an ideal vessel to ply Polar waters. The ship features large common areas and observation decks including a 360° Top Observation Deck that provide panoramic views of the stunning landscapes of Antarctica. Accommodating up to 134 passengers in spacious cabins, each featuring portholes or ocean-facing windows and private en-suite facilities, the MS Expedition provides space and comfort whilst still offering an intimate small-ship cruise experience. The ship also boasts a gym, sauna and barbecue facilities.

The MS Expedition continues the tradition of ground-breaking Polar expedition travel, taking travellers to the destinations that have inspired bold explorers for centuries including the great white continent of Antarctica.

Why we like it: The MS Expedition is a very comfortable, spacious and well-run expedition ship. From the moment you board this vessel the experienced Expedition Staff and friendly Crew will make you feel welcome, safe and they are always willing to share their wealth of knowledge to ensure you have an unforgettable and educational experience. The cabins are comfortable, there are ample public areas and an abundance of deck space to view the passing scenery and wildlife. It is a true pleasure to cruise on the ship. Kieron Tebbutt, Destination Specialist.

 

Ice Class: Length: 84.73 m / 278.3 feet
Breadth: 15.54 m / 51 feetMax
Draft: Cruising
Speed: 17 knots
Electricity: European Passenger
Capacity:
134

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.

OPTIONAL ACTIVITIES

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

Camping

Fall asleep amid the snow-capped mountains as you watch the colours of the Antarctic twilight bounce off the ocean and surrounding glaciers.

Learn More

Kayaking

Experience the unforgettable thrill and serenity of kayaking in Antarctica as part of a small, expertly guided paddling group.

Learn More
inside tour type 1 and 0

Pricing per person & date

Spirit of Shackleton | MS Expedition from AUD 22,499
Departing Ending Duration
11 Jan 2024 31 Jan 2024 21
11 Jan 2025 31 Jan 2025 21

Important Information

  • INCLUSIONS:

    1 night hotel accommodation in Ushuaia pre cruise 
    Shipboard accommodation 
    All meals onboard
    All scheduled landings/excursions
    Guiding and lectures by expedition leader and team 
    English-speaking expedition team 
    All port fees
    All landing fees
    Expedition jacket
    A pair of boots for use during the voyage
    Group arrival and departure transfers  

     

    EXCLUSIONS:

    Airfares to/from embarkation and disembarkation city
    Visa fees (if applicable)
    Travel Insurance 
    Beverages (other than coffee and tea)
    Personal expenses such as laundry, onboard communication (telephone calls, faxes, email service) 
    Gratuities for the crew (recommended US$15.00 per person per day)
    Pre or post cruise travel expenses 

  • 2 (light adventure)
  • No single surcharge if willing to share (Category 1,2 and 3 cabin classes only).

  • Prices are based on per person, twin share* (unless otherwise stated for triple/quad cabins) 

    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

  • Departure date,  fuel surcharges, cabin category, currency fluctuations, seasonality and availability.