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Falklands, South Georgia & Valdes Peninsula | Le Boreal

20 Days
From USD 10,710

STYLE: Expedition Cruise

Trip Code: ACPOVSF

DIFFICULTY RATING: 2 (light adventure)

Start: Buenos Aires, Argentina

Finish: Buenos Aires, Argentina

SHIP: LE BOREAL

DestinationDestination

Falklands, South Georgia, Argentina

DestinationDeparture Date

06/03/2024, 11/03/2025

MealsMeals

All Meals & Beverage Package whilst on board

TransportAccommodation

Cabin on board ship & Hotel



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OVERVIEW

NO SINGLE SUPPLEMENT ON SELECTED DEPARTURES + DOUBLE WELCOME OFFER 

Explore the breathtaking natural environment on this brand-new expedition voyage aboard Le Boréal, and get the chance to have these life-changing experiences.

Walk along the rugged Falkland Islands coastline while black-browed albatrosses fly overhead, or admire a sea of black and white penguins on South Georgia's isolated beaches. You may even watch orcas willingly beach themselves to hunt on the Valdes Peninsula beaches. Ushuaia will be left in your wake as you sail to the magnificent South Georgia. King penguins, elephant seals, and fur seals have all flooded this area of the shore, and the young ones, who have just been separated from their parents, are watching you with curiosity. Above the black-sand beaches ringed by the island's mountains, light-mantled albatrosses soar. During the renowned Endurance Odyssey in 1916, Sir Ernest Shackleton somehow got aground there amid the snow-covered mountains. He then went back to retrieve the remainder of his crew, who had been left behind on the isolated Elephant Island. You may learn more about this epic tale in the museum dedicated to the voyage, and a trip to the abandoned whaling station will transport you to that little-known time period.

The Falkland Islands will be the next stop on your journey through the South Atlantic, and see whales will accompany you as you navigate this archipelago of 200 islands. Beaches with white sand, craggy cliffs, windswept moors, and tall grass that sways in the wind combine to create the untamed beauty of the shorelines. The thousands of Gentoo and king penguins, elephant and fur seals, sea lions, and black-browed albatrosses that watch from above are in the ideal environment here. The desert steppes of the Chubut province in Argentina quickly take the place of the mountainous landscapes in the landscape. You will tour the Valdes Peninsula after a stop at the lovely Camarones, which is well known for its prawns. You can observe orcas hunting baby elephant seals on the beaches of this nature refuge while Magellanic penguins observe. The skunk dolphins swim gently, the guanacos gallop beautifully, and the eared seals yawn indolently. The immense splendour of the outdoors is breathtaking.

Single Supplement waived on selected departures & cabins. Offer is correct at the time of publishing and only available until sold out on selected voyages and strictly limited availability. Not available on some premium suites and triple/quad share. Prices are subject to change until the time of booking and terms and conditions apply. Please contact us for more information and enquire for details of offers and available dates. 

ITINERARY

Arrive & Overnight in Buenos Aires

Your cruise package includes an overnight in Buenos Aires. You will be met at the hotel by our local representative where you will receive a quick briefing before having the rest of the day at your leisure.

Buenos Aires, Argentina’s elegant, historic and cosmopolitan capital, is known as the “Paris of the South” due to its European atmosphere with glamorous avenues lined with fashionable shops and Parisian-style restaurants and cafes. Located on the western shore of the estuary of the Río de la Plata, Buenos Aires has many fascinating neighbourhoods to explore including the colourful and lively La Boca, home to art galleries and tango shows; San Telmo with its restored mansions and antique stores and Recoleta, the city’s most exclusive area.

Fly to & Embark from Ushuaia

Capital of Argentina's Tierra del Fuego province, Ushuaia is considered the gateway to the White Continent and the South Pole. Nicknamed “El fin del mundo” by the Argentinian people, this city at the end of the world nestles in the shelter of mountains surrounded by fertile plains that the wildlife seem to have chosen as the ultimate sanctuary. With its exceptional site, where the Andes plunge straight into the sea, Ushuaia is one of the most fascinating places on earth, its very name evocative of journeys to the unlikely and the inaccessible…

At Sea towards South Georgia - Days 3-5

During your day at sea, make the most of the many services and activities on board. Treat yourself to a moment of relaxation in the spa or stay in shape in the fitness centre. Depending on the season, let yourself be tempted by the swimming pool or a spot of sunbathing. This day without a port of call will also be an opportunity to enjoy the conferences or shows proposed on board, to do some shopping in the boutique or to meet the PONANT photographers in their dedicated space. As for lovers of the open sea, they will be able to visit the ship’s upper deck to admire the spectacle of the waves and perhaps be lucky enough to observe marine species. A truly enchanted interlude, combining comfort, rest and entertainment.

South Georgia - Days 6-8

Aboard your ship, discover South Georgia, a region formed by an underwater mountain chain that extends from the Andes to the Antarctic Peninsula. All the wildlife of the Far South can be found there: king and Gentoo penguins, elephant seals, fur seals… You might get the chance to discover the majestic glaciers of Gold Harbour and the vast plains of Fortuna Bay. If you are fortunate enough to land at Salisbury Plain, you can expect a wonderful spectacle: more than 300,000 king penguins, which you will recognise by the bright orange mark on their head and neck, have taken up residence there.

At Sea towards the Falklands - Days 9-10

During your day at sea, make the most of the many services and activities on board. Treat yourself to a moment of relaxation in the spa or stay in shape in the fitness centre. Depending on the season, let yourself be tempted by the swimming pool or a spot of sunbathing. This day without a port of call will also be an opportunity to enjoy the conferences or shows proposed on board, to do some shopping in the boutique or to meet the PONANT photographers in their dedicated space. As for lovers of the open sea, they will be able to visit the ship’s upper deck to admire the spectacle of the waves and perhaps be lucky enough to observe marine species. A truly enchanted interlude, combining comfort, rest and entertainment.

Port Stanley & Volunteer Point

Situated at the far eastern end of the Falklands' largest island, Port Stanley, is the capital of this remote archipelago in the South Atlantic, composed of nearly 700 islands and islets. In 1764, Louis Antoine de Bougainville settled the first pioneers here and the port grew rapidly. Placed under the Spanish crown in 1767, then under British sovereignty since 1833, the town has retained some South American features fused with the Victorian style that punctuate the city, and the houses with their colourful roofs brighten the moorland landscapes with their windy and harsh climate reminiscent of the Scottish islands of Orkneys or Shetland. In front of the Cathedral, built in 1933, an arch made of whale jaw bones reminds us that Port Stanley was once a whaling port.

A peninsula located at the far north-east of the Falkland Islands, Volunteer Point, named after the ship The Volunteer which called there in 1815, promises moving encounters in the heart of totally unspoiled nature. Due to its exceptional birdlife, the spot is identified as an Important Bird and Biodiversity Area (IBA) and is, above all, renowned as the home of the island’s largest king penguin colony. These elegant birds, which are expressive and not particularly timid, will offer you moments of pure awe and the opportunity to take magnificent photos. You’ll certainly be touched by the fledglings, dressed in their thick brown plumage.

Saunders Island & Carcass Island

The Neck is a narrow stretch of land connecting the two sides of Saunders Island, located on the north-western edge of the Falklands. You'll safely enter these blustery surroundings with the assistance of your naturalist guides. And once there, a reward awaits you: a veritable paradise of endless shoreline lapped by turquoise waters. Several bird species, also attracted to this stunning location, have settled here. At the other end of The Neck, you'll encounter Magellanic penguins, southern rockhopper penguins, black-browed albatross and king penguins, all basking in the beauty of their surroundings.

Situated in the north-west of the Falklands, Carcass Island was named after the ship HMS Carcass, which visited the island in the late 18th century. Its landscapes, combining steep rocks, sheer cliffs, wild expanses and white-sand beaches, form a rich and varied panorama that amateur or experienced bird watchers will appreciate. On this island, one of the few where no predators have been introduced, numerous species of birds live, breed and are born in total serenity. Due to the fresh, windy and humid subarctic oceanic climate, a fauna and flora similar to those of Patagonia, situated 460 km (286 miles) away, thrive here. You could get the chance to observe royal or southern rockhopper penguins.

West Point Island & Steeple Jason Island

It is no coincidence that West Point Island was once called Albatross Island. Like everywhere else in the Falkland Islands, seabirds have taken up residence here. Among them, the huge colonies of black-browed albatrosses observe your arrival by zodiac dinghy, from the surrounding cliffs. The gentoo and king penguins are also curious about travellers arriving by sea. The turquoise waters of the island wash up against the undulating shores, where the stretches of yellow gorse brighten the scenery composed by this wild natural environment. On the hill overlooking the bay stand the dwellings of the few people still living in this remote land. The calm and serenity of the island is only broken by the sound of the wind.

If one island of the Falklands calls for use of superlatives, it would undoubtedly be Steeple Jason. Located at the extreme north-west corner of the Falklands, the island is home to the largest black-browed albatross colony in the world. You'll be rapt at the sight of these magnificent birds with black-contoured eyes. Photographers will delight in immortalising the endless ballet of the albatross, who soars majestically and then alights awkwardly amidst nests. Caracaras, gentoo penguins and Magellanic penguins are also abundantly present, as if to prove to the visitor that here nature is king.

At Sea

During your day at sea, make the most of the many services and activities on board. Treat yourself to a moment of relaxation in the spa or stay in shape in the fitness centre. Depending on the season, let yourself be tempted by the swimming pool or a spot of sunbathing. This day without a port of call will also be an opportunity to enjoy the conferences or shows proposed on board, to do some shopping in the boutique or to meet the PONANT photographers in their dedicated space. As for lovers of the open sea, they will be able to visit the ship’s upper deck to admire the spectacle of the waves and perhaps be lucky enough to observe marine species. A truly enchanted interlude, combining comfort, rest and entertainment.

Camarones

Camarones is a small town located in Chubut Province, in Southern Argentina. Chubut stretches from the Atlantic to the Andes, the coast is marked by high cliffs and sandy beaches. Before the Spaniards arrived in the Americas, nomadic indigenous people had inhabited the Patagonia region. In the 17th and 18th centuries, Spanish missionaries settled. Camarones is the head town of the Florentino Ameghino department which is noted for its wealth of geological and paleontological features. People are attracted to the region by its lengthy unspoiled coastline and its fauna. Camarones means ‘shrimps’ in Spanish, once the town was well-known for the abundance of shrimps in its bay.

Puerto Madryn - Days 16-17

On the shores of the Atlantic Ocean, in the Argentinian province of Chubut, stands the city of Puerto Madryn nestling in the Golfo Nuevo and surrounded by wild and abundant nature. You will be able to follow the narrow strip of land formed by the isthmus for a few kilometres, to reach the Valdes Peninsula nature reserve, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Its microclimate, protected from the extreme conditions of the Southern Atlantic, makes this an ideal breeding ground for southern right whales, but also for southern elephant seals, southern sea lions, and orcas. You may also get the chance to spot numerous birds, Magellanic penguins, guanacos and Patagonian maras living in this desert steppe.

At Sea towards Buenos Aires - Days 18-19

During your day at sea, make the most of the many services and activities on board. Treat yourself to a moment of relaxation in the spa or stay in shape in the fitness centre. Depending on the season, let yourself be tempted by the swimming pool or a spot of sunbathing. This day without a port of call will also be an opportunity to enjoy the conferences or shows proposed on board, to do some shopping in the boutique or to meet the PONANT photographers in their dedicated space. As for lovers of the open sea, they will be able to visit the ship’s upper deck to admire the spectacle of the waves and perhaps be lucky enough to observe marine species. A truly enchanted interlude, combining comfort, rest and entertainment.

Arrive & Disembark in Buenos Aires

A port city built on the south-western shore of the Rio de la Plata, between the Atlantic Ocean and the vast Argentine Pampas, Buenos Aires is a unique city in Latin America. Nicknamed “the Little Paris of South America”, the Argentine capital is a clever blend of architecture with European influences and a joyful Latin American atmosphere. Designed on an orthogonal grid plan, it has 48 districts, all of which are as charming as they are different, with a range of styles such as Belle Époque, gothic and baroque. With its markets overflowing with treasures, its legendary cultural and architectural heritage, and tango providing its background music, the Argentine capital will delight you on every street corner.

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LE BOREAL

LE BOREAL

Sailing under the French flag, Le Boréal is a superb mega-yacht that was built in Italy with a sophisticated French design. With its tasteful décor and discreet elegance, the ship blends luxury and intimacy with well-being in a unique atmosphere. The 132 cabins comprise staterooms and suites and can accommodate up to 264 passengers. Features include king or twin beds, en-suite facilities, Wi-Fi access, flat screen satellite TV, I-pod player and individually controlled air-conditioning. Room service is offered 24 hours a day and there are elevators connecting all decks. On board you will find lounges, a theatre, library, restaurants and internet corner as well as open-air pool, sundeck, spa, fitness centre and beauty centre where you can relax and be pampered with beauty treatments, a hairdresser and Turkish bath.

Ice Class: Length: 142m (466ft)
Breadth: 18 m (59ft)Max
Draft: Cruising
Speed:
Electricity: 2 x 2300 KW Passenger
Capacity:
264

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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.

Kayaking

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

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Pricing per person & date

Falklands, South Georgia & Valdes Peninsula | Le Boreal from USD 10,710
Departing Ending Duration
06 Mar 2024 25 Mar 2024 20
11 Mar 2025 30 Mar 2025 20

Important Information

  • Inclusions

    1 night accommodation in Buenos Aires
    Transfer to airport and charter flight to Ushuaia
    Transfer to ship
    Cabin accommodation whilst on board Le Boreal
    All meals whilst on board
    Open bar (no premium brands)
    Mini bar in your stateroom (Champagne additional fee)
    All scheduled landings and excursions
    Guiding and lectures by expedition team 
    Complimentary Polar expedition jacket
    Free use of rubber boots for shore excursions
    All port taxes 
    Comprehensive pre and post voyage informational material 
    Free WIFI    

    Exclusions 

    International airfares to and from embarkation/disembarkation city 
    Visa fees (if applicable) 
    Travel and medical insurance
    Beverages (other than tea and coffee) 
    Personal expenses such as laundry, on board communication (telephone calls, faxes, email) 
    Gratuities for the crew
    Pre or post cruise travel expenses
    Optional activities

  • 2 (light adventure)
  • Please note there is no single supplement on select voyages. Please contact us for more information. 

  • Please note that itinerary is subject to change depending on weather and ice conditions.

  • Departure date, season and availability.