Antarctica, South Georgia, and the Falklands Expedition Cruise

date_range
22 days from

£17340 GBP pp

* Current p/p indicative rate.

Overview
Highlights
Dates & Prices
Itinerary
Map
Ships

Highlights

  • Trace the story of Sir Ernest Shackleton’s fateful journey in 1914 aboard Endurance, and toast his gravesite in South Georgia
  • See three distinct regions and benefit from our 50 years of experience here
  • Early November departures on all ships offer the possibility to cross-country ski and showshoe across the frozen sea ice, conditions permitting
  • Create incredible images of the ice and vast penguin colonies with help from a National Geographic photographer

Highlights

  • Trace the story of Sir Ernest Shackleton’s fateful journey in 1914 aboard Endurance, and toast his gravesite in South Georgia
  • See three distinct regions and benefit from our 50 years of experience here
  • Early November departures on all ships offer the possibility to cross-country ski and showshoe across the frozen sea ice, conditions permitting
  • Create incredible images of the ice and vast penguin colonies with help from a National Geographic photographer
Capacity: 126
Feture image for Antarctica, South Georgia, and the Falklands Expedition Cruise

Join us for one of the grandest wild experiences the planet offers. Spend days immersed in the extreme beauty of the Antarctic Peninsula in the company of top naturalists and National Geographic Photography Experts. Expand the wonder with an exploration of South Georgia—where vast colonies of king penguins throng the beaches and Sir Ernest Shackleton rests for eternity. Cap that off with time spent in the windswept Falklands, awash in British charm and history.

  • Trace the story of Sir Ernest Shackleton’s fateful journey in 1914 aboard Endurance, and toast his gravesite in South Georgia
  • See three distinct regions and benefit from our 50 years of experience here
  • Early November departures on all ships offer the possibility to cross-country ski and showshoe across the frozen sea ice, conditions permitting
  • Create incredible images of the ice and vast penguin colonies with help from a National Geographic photographer

Availability is always subject to confirmation. Please check with us before booking flights

29 October, 2026 to 19 November, 2026 on National Geographic Explorer
Prices

Prices quoted here are often dependent on currency fluctuations. Please check with (01432 507450 or info@small-cruise-ships.com) for the very latest price, which may well be cheaper than the one advertised here.

Category 1
£20217 GBP pp
Category 1
Main Deck with one or two Portholes #301-308
Category 2
£22716 GBP pp
Category 2
Main Deck with Window #317-320, 335-336
Category 3
£23417 GBP pp
Category 3
Main Deck with Window #313-316, 321-328, 337-340, 342, 344, 346, 348, 350 Triples: Main Deck with WIndow #341, 343
Category 4
£25180 GBP pp
Category 4
Upper and Veranda Decks with Window #103-104, 107-108, 201-202, 204-207, 210, 212, 217, 226, 228
Category SA (solo)
£30325 GBP pp
Category SA (solo)
Solo A Main Deck with Window #309-312, 329-334
Category 5
£31474 GBP pp
Category 5
Upper Deck with Balcony #209, 211, 214, 216, 218, 220-222, 224
Category SB (solo)
£35126 GBP pp
Category SB (solo)
Solo B Upper and Veranda Decks with Window #105-106, 203, 208
Category 6
£36597 GBP pp
Category 6
Veranda Deck–Suite #101-102; Upper Deck-Suite with Balcony #213 Triples: #101-102
Category 7
£40434 GBP pp
Category 7
Upper Deck–Suite with Balcony #215, 219, 230 All cabins are available as triples.
30 October, 2026 to 19 November, 2026 on National Geographic Explorer
Prices

Prices quoted here are often dependent on currency fluctuations. Please check with (01432 507450 or info@small-cruise-ships.com) for the very latest price, which may well be cheaper than the one advertised here.

Category 01
£17340 GBP pp
Category 01
#301-308 — Cabins feature one or two portholes. Cabins #301, 302, and 307 have two twin beds. Cabins #304-306 feature one queen-sized bed. Cabin #308 features two twin beds that can be converted to a queen. All cabins feature a writing desk, floor length mirror, reading lamps, well-appointed bathrooms with a roomy glass-wall shower, and a TV.
Category 02
£18205 GBP pp
Category 02
#317-320, 335-336 — Cabins feature two single beds (some can convert to a queen-sized bed), and one large window. They offer a writing desk, floor length mirror, reading lamps, sitting chair, well-appointed bathrooms with a roomy glass-wall shower, and a TV.
Category 03
£22756 GBP pp
Category 03
#313-316, 321-328, 337-340, 342, 344-350 — Cabins feature two single beds (can be converted to a queen-sized bed), one large window, a sitting chair, a small table, ample storage, writing desk with chair, floor length mirror, reading lamps, TV, and well-appointed bathrooms with a roomy glass-wall shower. #341 & 343 — each L-shaped suite also has a sofa-bed that can be converted into a triple, double closet, espresso maker, and generously sized bathrooms.
Category 04
£23663 GBP pp
Category 04
Veranda Deck#103-104, 107-108 — Cabins feature two single beds than can convert into a queen. They have a writing desk, floor length mirror, reading lamps, sitting chair, private bathrooms with a glass-wall shower, and a TV.Upper Deck#201-202, 204-207, 210, 212, 217, 226, 228 — Cabins feature two single beds than can convert into a queen (cabins 217, 226 & 228 have a queen bed only). They have a writing desk, floor length mirror, reading lamps, sitting chair, private bathrooms with a glass-wall shower, and a TV.
Category 05
£24611 GBP pp
Category 05
#209, 211, 214, 216, 218, 220-222, 224 — Cabins feature a balcony with sliding glass doors, one queen-sized bed, writing desk, floor length mirror, reading lamps, private bathrooms with a glass-wall shower, and a TV. (Cabin 221 has two single beds that can convert to a queen.)
Category 06
£28306 GBP pp
Category 06
Veranda Deck, #101-102 — These newly renovated suites feature two single beds that can be converted into a queen, a sofa-bed that can be converted into a triple, a writing desk, double closet, chairs, three large windows, TV, mini bar and espresso maker. Bathrooms are generously sized with a roomy glass-walled shower stall. Upper Deck, #213 — This newly renovated suite features a private balcony with glass doors, two single beds that can be converted into a queen, a writing desk, double closet, armchairs, TV, mini bar and espresso maker. Bathrooms are generously sized with a roomy glass-walled shower stall. (Photo does not reflect #213)Guests receive complimentary laundry and priority access to one spa appointment per departure.
Category 07
£32547 GBP pp
Category 07
#215, 219, 230 — These newly renovated suites feature a private balcony, two single beds that can be converted into a queen, and a sofa bed that can be converted into a triple. There is a seating area with a writing desk, coffee table with sitting chair, and a small table. Suites feature a double closet, TV, mini bar, and espresso maker. Bathrooms are generously sized with a roomy glass-walled shower stall.
06 November, 2026 to 27 November, 2026 on National Geographic Resolution
Prices

Prices quoted here are often dependent on currency fluctuations. Please check with (01432 507450 or info@small-cruise-ships.com) for the very latest price, which may well be cheaper than the one advertised here.

Category 1
£27514 GBP pp
Category 1
#406, 408, 411, 413, 415 — Fore Deck, with two large windows, two singles that can convert to a queen, armchair, writing desk and chair, two bedside tables, window sofa, and a closet.
Category 2
£28328 GBP pp
Category 2
#410, 412, 414, 416-419, 421-427 — Fore Deck, with two large windows, two single beds that can convert to a queen, window sofa, 2 seat sofa, coffee table, armchair, writing desk with an office chair, two bedside tables, and a closet.
Category 3
£32986 GBP pp
Category 3
#512-524 — Suite with balcony that features two balcony chairs, hammock, and a table; two single beds that convert to a queen, convertible sleeper sofa, writing desk with a chair, two bedside tables, and a closet.
Category 4
£36914 GBP pp
Category 4
#608, 610, 612, 613-623 — Suite with balcony that features two balcony chairs and a table; two single beds that can convert to a queen, convertible sleeper sofa, coffee table, writing desk with chair, hammock, two bedside tables, and a closet.
Category A Solo
£41272 GBP pp
Category A Solo
#504-510, 513 — Suite with balcony that features two balcony chairs and a table; single bed, writing desk with an office chair, bedside table, and a closet.
Category 5
£42443 GBP pp
Category 5
#708, 709, 711, 713 — Suite with balcony that features two balcony chairs, hammock, and a table; two single beds that convert to a queen, convertible sleeper sofa coffee table, writing desk with chair, two bedside tables, and a closet.
Category B Solo
£42493 GBP pp
Category B Solo
#604-606, 609, 611 — Suite with balcony that features two balcony chairs, hammock, and a table; single bed, bedside table, writing desk with chair, hammock, and a closet.
Category 6
£48757 GBP pp
Category 6
#710 — Junior suite with balcony that features two balcony chairs, hammock, and a table; two single beds that convert to a queen convertible sleeper sofa, writing desk with chair, two bedside tables, and a closet.
Category 7
£54114 GBP pp
Category 7
#700-707, 712, 714-717 — Large Balcony Suite that features two balcony chairs, hammock, and a table; two single beds that convert to a queen. Large Suite sized bathroom with double vanity, bathtub, towel warmer, rain shower, separate bathroom with toilet. Sofa bed, coffee table, writing desk and chair, hammock, and a large walk-in closet with full length mirror. Suites include a Bose Bluetooth player.
12 November, 2026 to 03 December, 2026 on National Geographic Endurance
Prices

Prices quoted here are often dependent on currency fluctuations. Please check with (01432 507450 or info@small-cruise-ships.com) for the very latest price, which may well be cheaper than the one advertised here.

Category 1
£27514 GBP pp
Category 1
Category 1: Fore Deck with two large windows, Alcove seating, Relax chair 183 square ft.
Category 2
£28328 GBP pp
Category 2
Category 2: Fore Deck with two large windows, Alcove seating, Relax chair 205 square ft.
Category 3
£32986 GBP pp
Category 3
Category 3: Main Deck—Suite with balcony and sofa 205 square ft.
Category 4
£36914 GBP pp
Category 4
Category 4: Lounge Deck—Suite with balcony and sofa, 205 square ft.
Suite A Solo
£41272 GBP pp
Suite A Solo
Category A Solo: Main Deck—Suite with balcony and sofa 140 square ft.
Category 5
£42443 GBP pp
Category 5
Category 5: Bridge Deck—Suite with balcony and sofa 205 square ft.
Category 6
£48757 GBP pp
Category 6
Category 6: Bridge Deck—Junior Balcony Suite with large balcony, sofa bed 344 square ft.
Suite B Solo
£49478 GBP pp
Suite B Solo
Category B Solo: Lounge Deck—Suite with balcony and sofa 140 square ft.
Category 7
£54114 GBP pp
Category 7
Category 7: Bridge Deck—Large Balcony Suite with large balcony, sofa bed, bathtub, walk-in closet 430 square ft.
08 February, 2027 to 01 March, 2027 on National Geographic Endurance
Prices

Prices quoted here are often dependent on currency fluctuations. Please check with (01432 507450 or info@small-cruise-ships.com) for the very latest price, which may well be cheaper than the one advertised here.

Category 1
£31020 GBP pp
Category 1
Category 1: Fore Deck with two large windows, Alcove seating, Relax chair 183 square ft.
Category 2
£31826 GBP pp
Category 2
Category 2: Fore Deck with two large windows, Alcove seating, Relax chair 205 square ft.
Category 3
£36430 GBP pp
Category 3
Category 3: Main Deck—Suite with balcony and sofa 205 square ft.
Category 4
£40320 GBP pp
Category 4
Category 4: Lounge Deck—Suite with balcony and sofa, 205 square ft.
Category 5
£45777 GBP pp
Category 5
Category 5: Bridge Deck—Suite with balcony and sofa 205 square ft.
Suite A Solo
£46530 GBP pp
Suite A Solo
Category A Solo: Main Deck—Suite with balcony and sofa 140 square ft.
Category 6
£52038 GBP pp
Category 6
Category 6: Bridge Deck—Junior Balcony Suite with large balcony, sofa bed 344 square ft.
Suite B Solo
£54646 GBP pp
Suite B Solo
Category B Solo: Lounge Deck—Suite with balcony and sofa 140 square ft.
Category 7
£57327 GBP pp
Category 7
Category 7: Bridge Deck—Large Balcony Suite with large balcony, sofa bed, bathtub, walk-in closet 430 square ft.
17 February, 2028 to 09 March, 2028 on National Geographic Endurance
Prices

Prices quoted here are often dependent on currency fluctuations. Please check with (01432 507450 or info@small-cruise-ships.com) for the very latest price, which may well be cheaper than the one advertised here.

Category 01
£35099 GBP pp
Category 01
#404, 406, 408, 411, 413, 415 — Cabin with two large windows, two singles that can convert to a queen, writing desk and chair, two bedside tables, window sofa, coffee table, and a closet.
Category 02
£36855 GBP pp
Category 02
#410, 412, 414, 416-419, 421-427 — Cabin with two large windows, two single beds that can convert to a queen, window sofa, coffee table, writing desk with an office chair, two bedside tables, and a closet.
Category 03
£46069 GBP pp
Category 03
#512, 514-524 — Cabin with balcony that features two balcony chairs, hammock, and a table; two single beds that convert to a queen; convertible sleeper sofa; writing desk with a chair; two bedside tables; coffee table; and a closet.
Category 04
£47908 GBP pp
Category 04
#608, 610, 612, 613-623 — Cabin with balcony that features two balcony chairs, hammock, and a table; two single beds that can convert to a queen; pull-out sofa; coffee table; writing desk with chair; two bedside tables; and a closet.
Category 05
£49824 GBP pp
Category 05
#700-707, 712, 713, 715, 717 — Cabin with balcony that features two balcony chairs, hammock, and a table; two single beds that convert to a queen; convertible sleeper sofa; coffee table; writing desk with chair; two bedside tables; and a closet.
Category 06
£57298 GBP pp
Category 06
#714 — Junior suite with balcony that features two balcony chairs, hammock, and table; two single beds that convert to a queen; pull-out sofa; writing desk with chair; two bedside tables; coffee table; espresso maker; and a closet. Guests receive priority access to one spa treatment and one igloo reservation and complimentary laundry per departure.
Category 07
£65893 GBP pp
Category 07
#708-711, 716, 718, 719, 721 — These large balcony suites feature two balcony chairs, hammock, and table; two single beds that can convert to a queen; pull-out sofa; coffee table; writing desk and chair; espresso maker; hammock; and a large walk-in closet with full length mirror. Expanded bathroom has a double vanity, bathtub, towel warmer and rain shower. Guests receive priority access to one spa treatment and one igloo reservation and complimentary laundry per departure.
show reverse itinerary
Day 1 Buenos Aires, Argentina, or Santiago, Chile
Itinerary image for Day 1 Buenos Aires, Argentina, or Santiago, Chile

Arrive in Buenos Aires, the cosmopolitan capital of Argentina, or Santiago, Chile's mountainous capital.

In Buenos Aires: Transfer from the airport to the Alvear Art, or similar (National Geographic Endurance).

In Santiago: Transfer to the Ritz-Carlton, Santiago, or similar (National Geographic Resolution).

Arrival Time: Arrive before 11:00 a.m. local time.
Arrival City: Buenos Aires, Argentina or Santiago, Chile

Day 2 Ushuaia, Argentina / Embark Ship
Itinerary image for Day 2 Ushuaia, Argentina / Embark Ship

Join the recommended flight to Ushuaia, the southernmost city in the world, where you'll meet the ship; transfers to the airport and luggage assistance will be provided. Ushuaia’s spectacular setting, between the jagged peaks of the Darwin Range and the protected waters of the Beagle Channel, makes it an appropriately wild place to begin your journey to the White Continent and a great destination in its own right. Visit Tierra del Fuego National Park. Lunch will be served onboard a private catamaran while cruising the Beagle Channel, where you’ll be on the lookout for huge South American sea lions and birds like imperial cormorants.

Day 3-4 At Sea
Itinerary image for Day 3-4 At Sea

This 500-mile-wide strait between South America and the Antarctic Peninsula is one of the most famous bodies of water in the world. Sometimes ferocious, sometimes flat calm, the Drake is always a fascinating place in its own right. This part of the journey is your best opportunity to see gorgeous seabirds like the wandering albatross, and you might be lucky enough to encounter killer whales or rare species of dolphins. This is also a day to get to know the ship and prepare for the adventures ahead. Visit the Bridge (a great place to spot wildlife), have a relaxing massage; attend a talk about the biology of the penguins you’ll soon be seeing; or settle into a comfy chair in the observation lounge, look out over the waves and reflect on the incredible history of this fabled passage. If it does get a little rough, just take a couple of nice naps; you’ll be in Antarctica before you know it.

Day 5-8 Antarctica
Itinerary image for Day 5-8 Antarctica

With long hours of daylight at this time of year, you'll have ample opportunities to explore. The schedule is flexible, allowing you to take advantage of the unexpected. You might set out by kayak to encounter towering icebergs at water level; embark on a Zodiac excursion in search of seals and blue-eyed shags; walk amid thousands of Adélie and gentoo penguins; or experience the thrill of the ship crunching through pack ice.

Everywhere you go in Antarctica you'll be surrounded by opportunities to capture uniquely beautiful images. Along the way your expert expedition team will enrich your experiences.

Day 9-10 At Sea
Itinerary image for Day 9-10 At Sea

Setting out from the South Shetland Islands to South Georgia, you'll follow in the wake of Sir Ernest Shackleton’s epic voyage in the James Caird across 800 miles of the wild and lonely Scotia Sea. But you won’t be lonely at all—these waters are home to a large and growing population of whales, including fin whales, southern right whales and even blue whales—the largest animal on Earth. Albatross and petrels wing past the ship, providing you with another wonderful challenge for photography, while presentations from the expedition team help to prepare you for the mind-bending wildlife spectacles of South Georgia.

Days at sea are not simply transits from one place to another; they are a very important part of this epic journey in their own right. The crossing from the Antarctic Peninsula to South Georgia gives you a chance to stop and breathe, to explore the amenities of the ship and to spend a little time contemplating all your new memories. Life-changing experiences tend to pile up on one another in the Antarctic, so slow down a bit and let it all settle in. This is a great time to catch up with your journal, enjoy a rejuvenating massage or download and review all those hundreds (or thousands!) of photos. Get some rest, too—when you get to South Georgia, it’s going to be go, go, go!

Day 11-15 South Georgia Island
Itinerary image for Day 11-15 South Georgia Island

Simply put, there is nowhere else in the world like South Georgia. King penguins, the second largest penguin species in the world, are unquestionably the most iconic wildlife of South Georgia. Exact numbers are not known, but the largest single colony on the island may have as many as 500,000 of these amazing birds nesting together on a single two-mile-long beach.

Explore the spectacular coastline of South Georgia Island. In keeping with the nature of an expedition, the schedule is flexible with opportunities for walking, hiking, kayaking and Zodiac excursions. Sailing along the coast, you'll have a choice of activities every day including visits to Grytviken—the final resting place of Shackleton—and Stromness Harbour, where Ernest Shackleton, Tom Crean and Frank Worsley finally reached aid at a whaling station.

The island is also home to huge elephant seals and thousands of king penguins. South Georgia is sometimes called “the Serengeti of the Southern Ocean”, but even that description seems inadequate; this lonely island is unique in the world, so rich and so beautiful that it defies any comparison.

Day 16-17 At Sea
Itinerary image for Day 16-17 At Sea

Your first day at sea on the way to the Falkland Islands is another opportunity to think back over the adventures of the past few days and make preparations for those soon to come. Spend some time chatting about your latest images with the National Geographic Photography Expert and learn to make them look their best in the digital darkroom. Put the finishing touches on your watercolor of that amazing iceberg or try to capture an albatross’s flight in a poem. Everyone needs to exhale a bit after a visit to South Georgia, so take a little time to explore the details of your own memories and share them with your shipmates.

The Bridge is the nerve center of the ship in more ways than one. There’s always a congenial atmosphere there, whether you’ve come to ask one of the officers about navigation or just to sit and watch the world go by with binoculars in hand. The waters close to the Falkland Islands are rich with marine wildlife, so this is a great time to hang out with the naturalists and keep watch for rare dolphins or another beautiful species of albatross. All new sightings go up on the white board for the day’s record!

Day 18-20 Falkland Islands
Itinerary image for Day 18-20 Falkland Islands

All the best aspects of expedition travel seem to come together in the western Falkland Islands. Where else can you land on a beach tucked into a rocky cove, hike out across a rolling green pasture and suddenly find yourself at the crest of a sea cliff looking out over the South Atlantic surf? Just a few steps further and you’re standing at the edge of a breeding colony of black-browed albatross, so close that you can hear the wind on their wings as they swoop into land beside you. Check out the thousands of irresistible gentoo, rockhopper and Magellanic penguins that congregate here, along with fur seals.

Stanley, the bright, pretty capital of the Falkland Islands, is a wonderfully unexpected place: a charming outpost of British culture tucked into a small bay on the shore of these windswept islands in the far South Atlantic. Many Falkland Islanders still live in very traditional ways, and you’ll have a chance to visit a small farm to see some expert sheep shearing and learn about the best techniques for cutting blocks of peat for the fire. The rocky hills and white sand beaches outside town offer some excellent hikes, and afterward, a cup of tea or a pint at the local tavern goes down very nicely.

Day 21 At Sea
Itinerary image for Day 21 At Sea

The final day of your expedition takes you across the shallow waters of the Falklands Shelf, back to your starting point in Ushuaia. Attend presentations from the expedition staff on topics that help to sum up all the wonderful details of your experiences in the far south, and spend some time on deck enjoying the seabirds and dolphins that make these seas their home.

This is a day for contemplation as well. The Antarctic stays with you. Sometime soon, at a moment in the midst of a stressful day, you’ll remember the feeling of the polar wind, the sight of waves crashing against the blue wall of an iceberg and the sound of the penguins calling to their chicks. It’s a little bit of peace that you’ll carry with you always.

Day 22 Disembark Ship / Ushuaia / Buenos Aires (National Geographic Explorer / National Geographic Endurance) or Santiago (National Geographic Resolution)
Itinerary image for Day 22 Disembark Ship / Ushuaia / Buenos Aires (National Geographic Explorer / National Geographic Endurance) or Santiago (National Geographic Resolution)

Disembark in Ushuaia, the southernmost city in the world. Take the recommended flight to Buenos Aires or Santiago and connect with your flight home.

Departure Time: Depart after 9:00 p.m. local time.
Departure City: Buenos Aires, Argentina or Santiago, Chile

Please Note:
Itinerary image for Please Note:

Some departures may have a slightly modified itinerary. Please confirm departure and arrival cities with an Expedition Specialist before booking your flights.

Day 1 Buenos Aires, Argentina, or Santiago, Chile
Itinerary image for Day 1 Buenos Aires, Argentina, or Santiago, Chile
Itinerary image for Day 1 Buenos Aires, Argentina, or Santiago, Chile

Arrive in Buenos Aires, the cosmopolitan capital of Argentina, or Santiago, Chile's mountainous capital.

In Buenos Aires: Transfer from the airport to the Alvear Art, or similar (National Geographic Endurance).

In Santiago: Transfer to the Ritz-Carlton, Santiago, or similar (National Geographic Resolution).

Arrival Time: Arrive before 11:00 a.m. local time.
Arrival City: Buenos Aires, Argentina or Santiago, Chile

Day 2 Ushuaia, Argentina / Embark Ship
Itinerary image for Day 2 Ushuaia, Argentina / Embark Ship
Itinerary image for Day 2 Ushuaia, Argentina / Embark Ship

Join the recommended flight to Ushuaia, the southernmost city in the world, where you'll meet the ship; transfers to the airport and luggage assistance will be provided. Ushuaia’s spectacular setting, between the jagged peaks of the Darwin Range and the protected waters of the Beagle Channel, makes it an appropriately wild place to begin your journey to the White Continent and a great destination in its own right. Visit Tierra del Fuego National Park. Lunch will be served onboard a private catamaran while cruising the Beagle Channel, where you’ll be on the lookout for huge South American sea lions and birds like imperial cormorants.

Day 3-4 At Sea
Itinerary image for Day 3-4 At Sea
Itinerary image for Day 3-4 At Sea

This 500-mile-wide strait between South America and the Antarctic Peninsula is one of the most famous bodies of water in the world. Sometimes ferocious, sometimes flat calm, the Drake is always a fascinating place in its own right. This part of the journey is your best opportunity to see gorgeous seabirds like the wandering albatross, and you might be lucky enough to encounter killer whales or rare species of dolphins. This is also a day to get to know the ship and prepare for the adventures ahead. Visit the Bridge (a great place to spot wildlife), have a relaxing massage; attend a talk about the biology of the penguins you’ll soon be seeing; or settle into a comfy chair in the observation lounge, look out over the waves and reflect on the incredible history of this fabled passage. If it does get a little rough, just take a couple of nice naps; you’ll be in Antarctica before you know it.

Day 5-8 Antarctica
Itinerary image for Day 5-8 Antarctica
Itinerary image for Day 5-8 Antarctica

With long hours of daylight at this time of year, you'll have ample opportunities to explore. The schedule is flexible, allowing you to take advantage of the unexpected. You might set out by kayak to encounter towering icebergs at water level; embark on a Zodiac excursion in search of seals and blue-eyed shags; walk amid thousands of Adélie and gentoo penguins; or experience the thrill of the ship crunching through pack ice.

Everywhere you go in Antarctica you'll be surrounded by opportunities to capture uniquely beautiful images. Along the way your expert expedition team will enrich your experiences.

Day 9-10 At Sea
Itinerary image for Day 9-10 At Sea
Itinerary image for Day 9-10 At Sea

Setting out from the South Shetland Islands to South Georgia, you'll follow in the wake of Sir Ernest Shackleton’s epic voyage in the James Caird across 800 miles of the wild and lonely Scotia Sea. But you won’t be lonely at all—these waters are home to a large and growing population of whales, including fin whales, southern right whales and even blue whales—the largest animal on Earth. Albatross and petrels wing past the ship, providing you with another wonderful challenge for photography, while presentations from the expedition team help to prepare you for the mind-bending wildlife spectacles of South Georgia.

Days at sea are not simply transits from one place to another; they are a very important part of this epic journey in their own right. The crossing from the Antarctic Peninsula to South Georgia gives you a chance to stop and breathe, to explore the amenities of the ship and to spend a little time contemplating all your new memories. Life-changing experiences tend to pile up on one another in the Antarctic, so slow down a bit and let it all settle in. This is a great time to catch up with your journal, enjoy a rejuvenating massage or download and review all those hundreds (or thousands!) of photos. Get some rest, too—when you get to South Georgia, it’s going to be go, go, go!

Day 11-15 South Georgia Island
Itinerary image for Day 11-15 South Georgia Island
Itinerary image for Day 11-15 South Georgia Island

Simply put, there is nowhere else in the world like South Georgia. King penguins, the second largest penguin species in the world, are unquestionably the most iconic wildlife of South Georgia. Exact numbers are not known, but the largest single colony on the island may have as many as 500,000 of these amazing birds nesting together on a single two-mile-long beach.

Explore the spectacular coastline of South Georgia Island. In keeping with the nature of an expedition, the schedule is flexible with opportunities for walking, hiking, kayaking and Zodiac excursions. Sailing along the coast, you'll have a choice of activities every day including visits to Grytviken—the final resting place of Shackleton—and Stromness Harbour, where Ernest Shackleton, Tom Crean and Frank Worsley finally reached aid at a whaling station.

The island is also home to huge elephant seals and thousands of king penguins. South Georgia is sometimes called “the Serengeti of the Southern Ocean”, but even that description seems inadequate; this lonely island is unique in the world, so rich and so beautiful that it defies any comparison.

Day 16-17 At Sea
Itinerary image for Day 16-17 At Sea
Itinerary image for Day 16-17 At Sea

Your first day at sea on the way to the Falkland Islands is another opportunity to think back over the adventures of the past few days and make preparations for those soon to come. Spend some time chatting about your latest images with the National Geographic Photography Expert and learn to make them look their best in the digital darkroom. Put the finishing touches on your watercolor of that amazing iceberg or try to capture an albatross’s flight in a poem. Everyone needs to exhale a bit after a visit to South Georgia, so take a little time to explore the details of your own memories and share them with your shipmates.

The Bridge is the nerve center of the ship in more ways than one. There’s always a congenial atmosphere there, whether you’ve come to ask one of the officers about navigation or just to sit and watch the world go by with binoculars in hand. The waters close to the Falkland Islands are rich with marine wildlife, so this is a great time to hang out with the naturalists and keep watch for rare dolphins or another beautiful species of albatross. All new sightings go up on the white board for the day’s record!

Day 18-20 Falkland Islands
Itinerary image for Day 18-20 Falkland Islands
Itinerary image for Day 18-20 Falkland Islands

All the best aspects of expedition travel seem to come together in the western Falkland Islands. Where else can you land on a beach tucked into a rocky cove, hike out across a rolling green pasture and suddenly find yourself at the crest of a sea cliff looking out over the South Atlantic surf? Just a few steps further and you’re standing at the edge of a breeding colony of black-browed albatross, so close that you can hear the wind on their wings as they swoop into land beside you. Check out the thousands of irresistible gentoo, rockhopper and Magellanic penguins that congregate here, along with fur seals.

Stanley, the bright, pretty capital of the Falkland Islands, is a wonderfully unexpected place: a charming outpost of British culture tucked into a small bay on the shore of these windswept islands in the far South Atlantic. Many Falkland Islanders still live in very traditional ways, and you’ll have a chance to visit a small farm to see some expert sheep shearing and learn about the best techniques for cutting blocks of peat for the fire. The rocky hills and white sand beaches outside town offer some excellent hikes, and afterward, a cup of tea or a pint at the local tavern goes down very nicely.

Day 21 At Sea
Itinerary image for Day 21 At Sea
Itinerary image for Day 21 At Sea

The final day of your expedition takes you across the shallow waters of the Falklands Shelf, back to your starting point in Ushuaia. Attend presentations from the expedition staff on topics that help to sum up all the wonderful details of your experiences in the far south, and spend some time on deck enjoying the seabirds and dolphins that make these seas their home.

This is a day for contemplation as well. The Antarctic stays with you. Sometime soon, at a moment in the midst of a stressful day, you’ll remember the feeling of the polar wind, the sight of waves crashing against the blue wall of an iceberg and the sound of the penguins calling to their chicks. It’s a little bit of peace that you’ll carry with you always.

Day 22 Disembark Ship / Ushuaia / Buenos Aires (National Geographic Explorer / National Geographic Endurance) or Santiago (National Geographic Resolution)
Itinerary image for Day 22 Disembark Ship / Ushuaia / Buenos Aires (National Geographic Explorer / National Geographic Endurance) or Santiago (National Geographic Resolution)
Itinerary image for Day 22 Disembark Ship / Ushuaia / Buenos Aires (National Geographic Explorer / National Geographic Endurance) or Santiago (National Geographic Resolution)

Disembark in Ushuaia, the southernmost city in the world. Take the recommended flight to Buenos Aires or Santiago and connect with your flight home.

Departure Time: Depart after 9:00 p.m. local time.
Departure City: Buenos Aires, Argentina or Santiago, Chile

Please Note:
Itinerary image for Please Note:
Itinerary image for Please Note:

Some departures may have a slightly modified itinerary. Please confirm departure and arrival cities with an Expedition Specialist before booking your flights.

Itinerary also available in reverse
National Geographic Endurance
A next-generation expedition ship, purpose-built for polar navigation. National Geographic Endurance is a next-generation expedition ship, purpose-built for polar navigation. A fully stabilized, hig…

National Geographic Endurance

Maximum capacity: 126
Built: 2018

A next-generation expedition ship, purpose-built for polar navigation.

National Geographic Endurance is a next-generation expedition ship, purpose-built for polar navigation. A fully stabilized, highly strengthened, ice-class Polar Code PC5 (Category A) vessel, it is designed to navigate polar passages year-round, and safely explore unchartered waters, while providing exceptional comfort. Its patented X-BOW® is key to its design; its powerful wave-slicing action provides an extremely smooth ride in even adverse conditions, and even reduces spray on deck, for superior observation. She carries a full suite of expedition tools and offers a variety of experience-enhancing amenities.

The luxury of comfort on expedition

National Geographic Endurance comfortably accommodates 126 guests in 69 outside-facing cabins. Cabins are efficiently designed, with sizes range from the 140-square-foot solo cabin to the 430-square-foot category 7 suite. Fifty-three of the 69 cabins, including all 12 of the solo cabins, will feature small balconies with floor-to-ceiling sliding doors that bring in the spectacular views and ample natural light. 

Comfort & convenience in every room

Every cabin has two portholes, a large window or balcony, and temperature controls. Bathrooms are modern and stocked with botanically inspired hair products, soap, and shower gel, plus a hairdryer. Cabins are equipped with expedition command centers with tablets and USB/mobile device docking, TVs, Wi-Fi connections, and hair dryers.

Dining: Food served aboard is fresh, local, and delicious, and sourced from suppliers who share our values of sustainable use whenever possible. Meals aboard are almost always served in the dining room, located aft of the lounge deck. When weather conditions allow, lighter fare may be served on the observation deck. There is no assigned seating and our dining room accommodates the entire expedition community in a single seating. During meals your expedition leader, naturalists, and any guest speakers aboard will join you.

Public Areas: Two restaurants, a Chef’s Table for small group dining, Observation Lounge with bar, gym, Wellness area, infinity-style outdoor hot tubs, library, main lounge with full service bar, 24-hour beverage, state-of-the-art facilities for films, slideshows and presentations, and a photo workshop area; plus, an expedition base with lockers for expedition gear, and an “open bridge” for access to our captain, officers and the art of navigation.

Meals: Two restaurants, featuring local, sustainable choices and unassigned seating for flexible, inclusive dining; plus a Chef’s table for intimate, small group dining. Main restaurant has 270º views, and the Observation deck restaurant features lighter, made-to-order fare. 

Cabins: All cabins face outside with large windows, private facilities and climate controls. 53 cabins have balconies. Cabins are equipped with expedition command centers with tablets and USB/mobile device docking, TVs, Wi-Fi connections, and hair dryers.

Expedition Tools: Zodiac landing craft, kayaks, snowshoes, cross-country skis, undersea specialist operating a remotely Operated Vehicle (ROV) and underwater video camera for unique access to polar marine world, hydrophone, aerial remote-controlled camera and video microscope.

Special Features: A full-time doctor, undersea specialist, National Geographic photographer, Lindblad-National Geographic certified photo instructor and video chronicler, an internet cafe and laundry.

Wellness: The vessel is staffed by our wellness specialists and features a glass-enclosed yoga studio, gym, treatment rooms and spa relax area, and high- and low-heat saunas with ocean views.

Expedition Landing Craft: Key to our operation is our fleet of expedition landing craft, which we use to land in places that would otherwise be inaccessible. With 8 of these boats and two loading stations used every time we disembark, we’re able to transfer guests off the ship quickly, so you can be out on adventures, not idly waiting. The expedition landing craft we use are 19 feet long, powered by four-stroke outboard engines, and are capable of comfortably carrying 10-12 people. They are widely recognized as the safest and most versatile small boats afloat.

Remotely Operated Vehicle: Capable of reaching 1,000 feet, far beyond the range of any Scuba diver, the ROV allows you to literally view parts of the undersea that are as unexplored as the moon. Chances are you, like many of our guests, will be struck by how surprisingly colorful undersea life is in these unlikely places. And this glimpse may fundamentally change how you view the ocean.

Kayaks: National Geographic Endurance will be equipped with a fleet of kayaks large enough to ensure everyone who wants to can paddle at every opportunity.

Consequently, prior kayaking experience isn’t necessary—many of our guests have their first kayaking experience in extraordinary locations. Our custom-designed floating platform lets us deploy kayaks from the ship, or any location we want—including far from shore. Kayakers are usually free to explore where they want within boundaries set by the undersea specialist and officer of the watch.

Underwater camera: Our undersea specialist will dive often during your expedition, even in Alaska, with cold-water gear, to shoot high-definition, Cousteau-like footage of the deep. Colorful nudibranchs, swimming, plant-like crinoids, and mysterious fish with antifreeze blood that thrive in the frigid sea will give you an entirely new appreciation of the marine environment.

Video microscope: Naturalists will use the video microscope to help explain all elements of the environment, including tiny organisms that are the building block of the marine ecosystem. Spellbinding live views of krill at 80x magnification fills the high-definition screens in the lounge with vivid detail, and fills every onlooker with a sense of wonder at the importance of otherwise unobservable creatures.

Hydrophone: This underwater microphone is deployed to listen to the vocalizations of marine mammals. Real time transmissions of their eerie, haunting sounds can be broadcast through the ship or recorded for later playback. Few experiences in nature are as captivating as watching humpback whales feed close to the ship as their vocalizations play through the ship’s PA system.

Electronic charts: An electronic chart showing the ship’s location, course, and speed is almost always on display in the lounge.

Open bridge: You’ll find our captains are engaged, knowledgeable members of your expedition who are eager to share their passion with you. Venture’s open bridge features comfortable spaces to sit, enjoy the view, drink your morning coffee, or simply chat with the officers.

Snorkeling gear & wetsuits: On warm weather itineraries where there will be snorkeling, you’ll select a mask, snorkel, fins, and wetsuit that remain yours for the duration of the expedition. There’s no need to pack and tote your own gear, although guests who prefer to are welcome to bring their own.

Deck plans are for illustrative purposes only – The actual ship and cabin layout may differ.

Cabin layout for National Geographic Endurance
National Geographic Explorer
Vessel Type: Luxury Expedition Length: 108 meters Passenger Capacity: 148 (single & twin cabins) Built / Refurbished: 1982 / 2008 National Geographic Explorer is a state-of-the-art …

National Geographic Explorer

Vessel Type: Luxury Expedition

Length: 108 meters

Passenger Capacity: 148 (single & twin cabins)

Built / Refurbished: 1982 / 2008

National Geographic Explorer is a state-of-the-art expedition ship. It is a fully stabilized, ice-class vessel, enabling it to navigate polar passages while providing exceptional comfort. It carries kayaks and a fleet of Zodiac landing craft. An Undersea Specialist operates a remotely operated vehicle (ROV) and sophisticated video equipment, extending access to the underwater world.

Public areas: Bistro Bar; Chart Room; Restaurant; Global Gallery; Library, Lounge with full service bar and state-of-the-art facilities for films, slideshows and presentations; Mud Room with lockers for expedition gear, and Observation Lounge. Our “Open Bridge” provides guests an opportunity to meet our Officers and Captain and learn about navigation.

Meals: Served in single seatings with unassigned tables for an informal atmosphere and easy mingling. Menu is international with local flair.

Cabins: All cabins face outside with windows or portholes, private facilities and climate controls.

Expedition Equipment: Zodiac landing craft, kayaks, Remotely Operated Vehicle (ROV), hydrophone, SplashCam, underwater video camera, Crow’s Nest remote controlled camera, video microscope, snorkeling gear.

Special Features: A full-time doctor, Undersea Specialist, LEX Photo Specialist and Video Chronicler, Internet Cafe and laundry.

Wellness: The vessel is staffed by two Wellness Specialists and features a glass enclosed Fitness Center, outdoor stretching area, two LEXspa treatment rooms and Sauna.

Deck plans are for illustrative purposes only – The actual ship and cabin layout may differ.

Cabin layout for National Geographic Explorer
National Geographic Resolution
A next-generation expedition ship, purpose-built for polar navigation. National Geographic Resolution is a next-generation expedition ship, purpose-built for polar navigation. A twin to National…

National Geographic Resolution

Passenger Capacity 126
Built 2020

A next-generation expedition ship, purpose-built for polar navigation. National Geographic Resolution is a next-generation expedition ship, purpose-built for polar navigation. A twin to National Geographic Endurance, she is a fully stabilized, highly strengthened, ice-class Polar Class 5 (PC5) vessel, it is designed to navigate polar passages year-round, and safely explore uncharted waters, while providing exceptional comfort. Its patented X-BOW® is key to its design; its powerful wave-slicing action provides an extremely smooth ride in even adverse conditions, and even reduces spray on deck, for superior observation. She carries a full suite of expedition tools and offers a variety of experience-enhancing amenities.

The luxury of comfort on expedition. National Geographic Resolution comfortably accommodates 126 guests in 69 outside-facing cabins. Cabins are efficiently designed, with sizes range from the 140-square-foot solo cabin to the 430-square-foot category 7 suite. Fifty-three of the 69 cabins, including all 12 of the solo cabins, will feature small balconies with floor-to-ceiling sliding doors that bring in the spectacular views and ample natural light. 

Comfort & convenience in every room. Every cabin has two portholes, a large window or balcony, and temperature controls. Bathrooms are modern and stocked with botanically inspired hair products, soap, and shower gel, plus a hairdryer. Cabins are equipped with expedition command centers with tablets and USB/mobile device docking, TVs, Wi-Fi connections, and hair dryers.

Dining. Food served aboard is fresh, local, and delicious, and sourced from suppliers who share our values of sustainable use whenever possible. Meals aboard are almost always served in the dining room, located aft of the lounge deck. When weather conditions allow, lighter fare may be served on the observation deck. There is no assigned seating and our dining room accommodates the entire expedition community in a single seating. During meals your expedition leader, naturalists, and any guest speakers aboard will join you.

Public Areas: Two restaurants, a Chef’s Table for small group dining, Observation Lounge with bar, gym, Wellness area, infinity-style outdoor hot tubs, library, main lounge with full service bar, 24-hour beverage, state-of-the-art facilities for films, slideshows and presentations, and a photo workshop area; plus, an expedition base with lockers for expedition gear, and an “open bridge” for access to our captain, officers and the art of navigation.

Meals: Two restaurants, featuring local, sustainable choices and unassigned seating for flexible, inclusive dining; plus a Chef’s table for intimate, small group dining. Main restaurant has 270º views, and the Observation deck restaurant features lighter, made-to-order fare. 

Special Features: A full-time doctor, undersea specialist, National Geographic photographer, Lindblad-National Geographic certified photo instructor and video chronicler, an internet cafe and laundry.

Wellness: The vessel is staffed by our wellness specialists and features a glass-enclosed yoga studio, gym, treatment rooms and spa relax area, and high- and low-heat saunas with ocean views.

Expedition Landing Craft. Key to our operation is our fleet of expedition landing craft, which we use to land in places that would otherwise be inaccessible. With 14 of these boats and two loading stations used every time we disembark, we’re able to transfer guests off the ship quickly, so you can be out on adventures, not idly waiting. The expedition landing craft we use are 19 feet long, powered by four-stroke outboard engines, and are capable of comfortably carrying 10-12 people. They are widely recognized as the safest and most versatile small boats afloat.

Remotely Operated Vehicle. Capable of reaching 1,000 feet, far beyond the range of any Scuba diver, the ROV allows you to literally view parts of the undersea that are as unexplored as the moon. Chances are you, like many of our guests, will be struck by how surprisingly colorful undersea life is in these unlikely places. And this glimpse may fundamentally change how you view the ocean.

Kayaks. National Geographic Resolution will be equipped with a fleet of kayaks large enough to ensure everyone who wants to can paddle at every opportunity. Consequently, prior kayaking experience isn’t necessary—many of our guests have their first kayaking experience in extraordinary locations. Our custom-designed floating platform lets us deploy kayaks from the ship, or any location we want—including far from shore. Kayakers are usually free to explore where they want within boundaries set by the undersea specialist and officer of the watch.

Underwater camera. Our undersea specialist will dive often during your expedition, even in polar regions, with cold-water gear, to shoot high-definition, Cousteau-like footage of the deep. Colorful nudibranchs, swimming, plant-like crinoids, and mysterious fish with antifreeze blood that thrive in the frigid sea will give you an entirely new appreciation of the marine environment.

Video microscope. Naturalists will use the video microscope to help explain all elements of the environment, including tiny organisms that are the building block of the marine ecosystem. Spellbinding live views of krill at 80x magnification fills the high-definition screens in the lounge with vivid detail, and fills every onlooker with a sense of wonder at the importance of otherwise unobservable creatures.

Hydrophone. This underwater microphone is deployed to listen to the vocalizations of marine mammals. Real time transmissions of their eerie, haunting sounds can be broadcast through the ship or recorded for later playback. Few experiences in nature are as captivating as watching humpback whales feed close to the ship as their vocalizations play through the ship’s PA system.

Electronic charts. An electronic chart showing the ship’s location, course, and speed is almost always on display in the lounge.

Open bridge. You’ll find our captains are engaged, knowledgeable members of your expedition who are eager to share their passion with you. National Geographic Resolution's open bridge features comfortable spaces to sit, enjoy the view, drink your morning coffee, or simply chat with the officers.

Snorkeling gear & wetsuits. On warm weather itineraries where there will be snorkeling, you’ll select a mask, snorkel, fins, and wetsuit that remain yours for the duration of the expedition. There’s no need to pack and tote your own gear, although guests who prefer to are welcome to bring their own.

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22 days from £17340 GBP pp

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