Falklands, South Georgia & Antarctic Peninsula - 22 days

Onboard Douglas Mawson – 154 passengers

This epic voyage takes you on an incomparable journey, visiting enigmatic Subantarctic islands and the Antarctic Peninsula. Discover the fascinating history and to encounter the spectacular birdlife found in the Falklands. Feel awed in the presence of the king penguin colonies in South Georgia, some of the largest on Earth. Immerse yourself in the serene grandeur of the Antarctic Peninsula as you embrace the true spirit of exploration and adventure.  

Voyage Highlights:

  • Photograph black-browed albatross and spot elusive macaroni penguins in the Falklands~Malvinas.
  • Encounter frolicking sea lion pups playing in the surf as their mothers look on.
  • Witness king penguins sitting on eggs, chicks hatching and fledging while ravenous skuas circle overhead.
  • Soak up the rich history in the Falklands~Malvinas.

Tour Dates

Itinerary

Day 1: Arrive Ushuaia
Arrive in Ushuaia, where you will be met by a representative and transferred with your fellow expeditioners to your assigned pre-voyage hotel. If you are already in Ushuaia, we ask you to make your way to your hotel. This afternoon, visit the hospitality desk to collect your luggage tags, and confirm if you wish to join our Beagle Channel and Isla de Los Lobos Cruise (sea lion island) tomorrow. The remainder of your time is at leisure. All meals today are at your own expense. 

Day 2: Embarkation
This morning, enjoy breakfast and check-out. For those wishing to join our afternoon catamaran cruise, we will board our catamaran and sail the Beagle Channel, towards the city’s iconic Les Eclaireurs Lighthouse. Crossing the Bridges Archipelago we’ll slow down to watch colonies of sea lions and imperial cormorants sun themselves on the rocky outcrops, while gulls, rock cormorants, skuas, petrels, albatrosses and cauquenes are often sighted. Our cruise offers panoramic views of the city and the surrounding mountain range, in addition to hearing tales of the people and communities of the region. 

Alternatively, enjoy your day at leisure and meet at your hotel lobby in the afternoon to be transferred to the pier for embarkation. Once onboard, you’ll have time to settle into your cabin before our important mandatory briefings. As the ship pulls away from port, we’ll gather on the deck to commence our adventure with spectacular views over Ushuaia and Tierra del Fuego. This evening get to know your fellow expeditioners and friendly expedition team and crew at a welcome dinner to celebrate the start of a thrilling adventure to Antarctica. 

Days 3-4: Drake Passage Crossing
As we commence the Drake Passage crossing, we make the most of our time getting comfortable with the motions of the sea. Our expedition team prepare you for our first landing with important wildlife guidelines and biosecurity procedures and start our lecture program to help you learn more about Antarctica’s history, wildlife and environment. 

Our wildlife experiences begin as we enjoy watching and photographing the many seabirds, including majestic albatrosses and giant petrels following our vessel. As we commence the Drake Passage crossing, we make the most of our time getting comfortable with the motions of the sea. Our expedition team prepare you for our first landing with important wildlife guidelines and biosecurity procedures and start our lecture program to help you learn more about Antarctica’s history, wildlife and environment. You can also enjoy the facilities on board the vessel including the gym, wellness centre or the relaxing in one of the observation lounges. 

Nearing the South Shetland Islands and the tip of the Antarctic Peninsula on the afternoon of day four, the excitement is palpable with everyone converging on one of the observation decks watching for our first iceberg. The ocean takes on a whole new perspective once we are below the Antarctic Convergence and are surrounded by the surreal presence of floating ice sculptures. The memory of your first big iceberg sighting is likely to remain with you for a lifetime. Time and weather permitting, we may attempt our first landing in Antarctica by late afternoon.

Days 5-8: Antarctic Peninsula
It is almost impossible to describe the feeling of arriving in Antarctica. Spotting your first iceberg and taking a deep breath of some of the most fresh, crisp air on earth is an experience that will stay with you forever. Once we arrive, the western side of the Antarctic Peninsula and the South Shetland Islands are ours to explore, and we have a host of choices available to us. Because we are so far south, we will experience approximately 18-24 hours of daylight and the days can be as busy as you wish. 

Your experienced expedition team, who have made countless journeys to this area, will use their expertise to design your voyage from day to day, choosing the best options based on the prevailing weather, ice conditions and wildlife opportunities. We generally make landings or Zodiac excursions twice a day. You will want to rug up before joining Zodiac cruises along spectacular ice cliffs or among grounded icebergs, keeping watch for whales, seals and porpoising penguins. Zodiacs will also transport you from the ship to land, where you can visit penguin rookeries, discover historic huts and explore some of our favourite spots along the peninsula. 

While ashore we aim to stretch our legs, wandering along pebbly beaches or perhaps up snow-covered ridgelines to vantage points with mountains towering overhead and ice-speckled oceans below. If you have chosen an optional activity, you will have the option to do participate in the activity whenever conditions allow, and of course keen polar plungers will have the chance to fully immerse themselves in polar waters – conditions permitting! The polar plunge can take place at any time during the voyage, so listen out for the announcement from the expedition team and get ready for the most exhilarating dip of your life! 

In addition to Zodiac cruises and shore excursions, we may ship cruise some of the narrow, dramatic straits separating offshore islands from the mainland, or linger in scenic bays to watch whales travelling or feeding. This is a great time to enjoy the observation lounge or make your way to the bridge (open at the captain’s discretion) for uninterrupted views of Antarctica in all its splendour. Listen out for the creak and deep rumble of glaciers as they carve into sea. Take a quiet moment to experience the wonder of the pristine paradise of the splendid white continent.

If you have chosen an optional activity, you will have the option to do enjoy that activity whenever conditions allow. 

Days 9-10: At Sea
Enjoy informative and entertaining lectures from our expedition team and learn about the wildlife, history and culture of the places that you will visit on the voyage. You may want to use the sauna and jacuzzis, stay active in the gym or borrow a book from our well-stocked library and relax in one of the many observation areas on board the vessel.

Days 11: At Sea / South Georgia
Sea and weather conditions will determine our departure time from South Georgia today.

Day 12-15: South Georgia
As you near the rugged island of South Georgia, spare a thought for Captain James Cook, who arrived here in 1775 and believed it to be the northern tip of a great southern continent! In fact, it is a small island only 176 km (110 mi) long, but with a 3,000 m (9,842 ft) snow-capped mountain range, some of the world’s largest congregations of wildlife and a truly fascinating human history, South Georgia is an island of incredible riches. On approach, jagged mountain peaks rise steeply, while seabirds are often spotted soaring around the ship. 

Remember to layer up before joining Zodiac cruises around craggy coves and along the rocky coastline in search of nesting penguins, seal haul-outs and bird cliffs. Remember to keep an eye out for South Georgia’s kelp forests as well – these remarkable underwater ecosystems are quite mesmerising as their fronds sway back and forth on the water’s surface. 

Zodiacs will also shuttle you from ship to shore, where you can visit some of the largest king penguin colonies on the planet, take a guided walk among fur seals and elephant seals (making sure you listen to your guides and keep your distance!) and wander along pebbled streams and grassy glacial outwash plains. We also hope to visit the remnants of South Georgia’s thriving whaling stations and pay our respects to Sir Ernest Shackleton, whose incredible voyage of survival is synonymous with this island. 

Days 16-17: At Sea
As we sail towards the Falklands~Malvinas, there is plenty to keep you occupied on board. Our expedition team will continue to share their wealth of knowledge about the wildlife, history and natural world as part of the onboard lecture series. You will have ample time to enjoy observing seabirds from the stern of the ship, keeping a close watch for whales and other marine wildlife, or simply enjoying the many facilities available to you on the ship.  

Day 18: At Sea / Falklands~Malvinas
Sea and weather conditions will determine our arrival time to the Falklands~Malvinas today.

Days 19-20: Falklands~Malvinas
The Falklands~Malvinas comprises two large islands (East and West Falkland), with over 700 islands scattered off the coast. All but seven of these are uninhabited, with windswept coastlines, white sand beaches and crystal-clear water. These beautifully barren islands are true wildlife havens, sheltering an impressive diversity of birdlife, including the largest black-browed albatross colony on earth. The cold, nutrient-rich waters surrounding the islands make this a prime location for spotting marine life. 

There are many beautiful areas to explore across the Falklands~Malvinas, each offering a unique perspective on this magnificent archipelago. Your experienced expedition team, who have made countless journeys to this area, will use their expertise to design your voyage from day to day, choosing the best options based on the prevailing winds, weather and wildlife opportunities. 

Even though we’re north of the Antarctic Convergence it can be quite chilly here, so you will want to layer up before joining Zodiac cruises into rocky coves or along sea cliffs, keeping watch for seals, sea lions, dolphins and penguins. On landings we may visit albatross colonies, penguin rookeries and perhaps even have a traditional English ‘tea and scones’ at a local cottage.   

Conditions permitting, we aim to land in historic Stanley, the capital of the Falklands~Malvinas. This charming town has a distinctly British character, with terraced town houses, pioneer cottages and even an iconic red telephone box! Colourful buildings house cosy cafes, English pubs, souvenir shops, a post office and the fascinating Historic Dockyard Museum, with displays on the maritime history of the Falkland Islands, natural history and links to Antarctica. 

Day 21: At Sea
With lectures and film presentations to complete our Antarctic experience, there is still plenty of time to enjoy the magic of the South Atlantic Ocean and the life that calls it home. There is time for reflection and discussion about what we have seen and experienced. We hope you become ambassadors for the Antarctic region, telling your family, friends and colleagues about your journey to this magical part of the planet, advocating for its conservation and preservation so that they might one day visit the region to experience what you have been lucky to see and do here. As we approach the tip of South America, our Captain may sail close to legendary Cape Horn, weather and time permitting.

Day 22: Disembark Ushuaia
During the early morning, we cruise up the Beagle Channel, before quietly slipping into dock in Ushuaia, where we will be free to disembark around 8.00 am. Farewell your expedition team and fellow passengers as we all continue our onward journeys, hopefully with a newfound sense of the immense power of nature. Upon disembarkation, for those continuing their travels in the region, transportation to the hotel will be arranged exclusively for guests who have booked their accommodations as part of the voyage or for those staying in downtown areas near the port. Expeditioners departing on flights prior to 12:30 pm will be directly transferred to Ushuaia Airport, those with flights after 12:30 pm will have the opportunity to explore Ushuaia before an afternoon airport transfer, and the transfer procedures and details will be communicated onboard before disembarkation. 

Note: At the conclusion of the voyage, we do not recommend booking flights departing Ushuaia prior to 12.00 pm on the day of disembarkation in case there are delays. 

In the spirit of expedition travel, we encourage you to adopt a flexible and adventurous attitude when joining our voyages. This itinerary is a guide only and is subject to change due to weather, sea state and other conditions beyond our control. The Avian Flu has extended its presence to South Georgia, leading to temporary restrictions at some landing sites. Although specific locations may be inaccessible due to the ongoing situation, landing at numerous open sites is still permitted. The Avian Flu has extended its presence to South Georgia, leading to temporary restrictions at some landing sites. Although specific locations may be inaccessible due to the ongoing situation, landing at numerous open sites is still permitted.

Route Map

Trips and Rates

Please note, rates are Per Person in USD
Aurora Stateroom Triple
$27,195
Save 20%
$21,756
 
Aurora Stateroom Twin
$27,995
Save 20%
$22,396
Full
Aurora Stateroom Superior
$29,595
Save 20%
$23,676
 
Balcony Stateroom C
$30,395
Save 20%
$24,316
 
Balcony Stateroom B
$31,995
Save 20%
$25,596
 
Balcony Stateroom A
$34,395
Save 20%
$27,516
 
Balcony Stateroom Superior
$37,595
Save 20%
$30,076
 
Junior Suite
$47,195
Save 20%
$37,756
 
Captain's Suite
$55,995
Save 20%
$44,796
 
Aurora Stateroom Single
$32,795
Save 20%
$26,236
Full
Aurora Stateroom Superior Single
$35,995
Save 20%
$28,796
Limited

Single Travelers:

  • Can book a dedicated single cabin in Aurora Stateroom Single or Aurora Stateroom Superior Single at the prices shown above.
  • If willing to share a cabin, we can match you with another or other passengers of the same gender to avoid a single supplement.
  • Single occupancy price is 1.5x the per person share price

Adventure Options

  • Kayaking Program: $1,745/person on Epic Antarctica and Falklands, South Georgia & Antarctic Peninsula voyages.  $1,330/person on Mawson’s Antarctica and Ross Sea Odyssey voyages. Requires previous kayaking experience and an intermediate paddling level.

Availability & prices are subject to change at anytime. Please contact us for the real time availability & prices.

Cabin Descriptions

Captain's Suite

The largest of all the cabins, the singular Captain’s Suite will take you to the polar regions in ultimate style and comfort. Complete with large lounge area, balcony, walk-in wardrobe and en-suite, you’ll need to book early to secure this suite. The Captain’s Suite features additional amenities including 1 free pair of binoculars per suite, free stocked mini bar (replenished as needed) and 1 free bottle of champagne.

Cabin & balcony combined size: 487 sq. ft. (45.22m2)

Junior Suite

The four Junior Suites take in some impressive scenery from their vantage points on Deck 7. When you aren’t enjoying a landing, you can relax in the suites’ separate lounge area, or just watch the world float by from the private balcony. The Junior Suite features additional amenities including 1 free pair of binoculars per suite, free stocked mini bar (stocked once only) and 1 free bottle of champagne.

Cabin & balcony combined size:  446 – 451 sq. ft. (41.47 – 41.87m2)

Balcony Stateroom Superior

With a bit more room to stretch the legs, the Balcony Stateroom Superior cabins are perfect for polar adventurers who travel with plenty of gear. Located on Deck 4 and 6, the Staterooms feature floor to ceiling windows, en-suite bathrooms and a comfortable desk area. Some of these rooms are equipped with wheelchair accessible bathrooms.

Cabin & balcony combined size: 299 – 390 sq. ft. (27.77 – 36.27m2)

Balcony Stateroom Category A

The 25 Balcony Stateroom  A cabins are a premium cabin and the most abundant on board. These cabins are located in preferred positions on Deck 4 and 6 which provides easy access between Decks via the internal stairs or elevator.

Cabin & balcony combined size: 227 – 288 sq. ft. (21 – 26.77 m2)

Balcony Stateroom Category B

The 17 Balcony Stateroom  B Cabins are located at the fore and aft of Deck 4 & 6. Many are fitted with interconnecting features making them great for families or groups.

Cabin & balcony combined size: 227 – 288 sq. ft. (21 – 26.77 m2)

Balcony Stateroom Category C

The 15 Balcony Stateroom C cabins are the most economical balcony stateroom, fitted with all the necessities and comfortable for up to 2 people. These cabins are scattered throughout Deck 4 & 6.

Cabin & balcony combined size: 227 – 288 sq. ft. (21 – 26.77 m2)

Aurora Stateroom Superior

With a bit more room to stretch the legs, the Aurora Stateroom Superior are perfect for polar adventurers who travel with plenty of gear. Located on Deck 7, the Staterooms feature french balconies, floor to ceiling windows, en-suite bathrooms and a comfortable desk area.

Cabin size: 150 – 174 sq. ft. (13.97 – 16.17m2)  

Aurora Stateroom Twin

The Douglas Mawson features two Aurora Stateroom Twin cabins featuring windows, all with private en-suites. Located on Deck 3, they’re close to the mudroom and loading platforms, perfect for adventurers who are looking for a comfortable base that’s close to the action.

Cabin size: 165 – 172 sq. ft. (15.37 – 15.97m2)  

Aurora Stateroom Triple

There are two Aurora Stateroom Triple cabins featuring portholes, all with private en-suites. Located on Deck 3, they’re close to the mudroom and loading platforms.

Cabin size: 243 sq. ft. (22.57m2)

Aurora Stateroom Superior Single

There are four Aurora Stateroom Superior Single cabins featuring portholes, all with private en-suites. Located on Decks 3 & 7.

Deck 3 Cabin size: 163 sq. ft. (15.18m2)

Deck 7 Cabin size: 118 sq. ft. (10.97m2)

Aurora Stateroom Single

There are two Aurora Stateroom Single cabins featuring portholes, all with private en-suites. Located on Deck 3, they’re close to the mudroom and loading platforms.

Cabin size: 106 sq. ft. (9.85m2)

Deck Plan

Inclusions & Exclusions

Inclusions: 

  • All airport transfers mentioned in the itinerary.
  • One night’s hotel accommodation including breakfast, in Ushuaia on Day 1.
  • Afternoon catamaran cruise in Ushuaia, on Day 2.
  • Onboard accommodation during voyage, including daily cabin service.
  • All meals, snacks, tea and coffee during voyage.
  • Beer, house wine and soft drinks with dinner.
  • Captain’s Farewell reception including four-course dinner, house cocktails, house beer and wine, non-alcoholic beverages.
  • All shore excursions and Zodiac cruises.
  • Educational lectures and guiding services provided by Expedition Team.
  • Complimentary access to onboard expedition doctor and medical clinic (initial consultation).
  • One 3-in-1 waterproof, polar expedition jacket.
  • Complimentary use of Muck Boots during the voyage.
  • Comprehensive pre-departure information.
  • Port surcharges, permits and landing fees.
  • Wi-Fi – Please note we travel to remote regions and therefore the connection can be unreliable. 
 

Exclusions: 

  • International or domestic flights – unless specified in the itinerary.
  • Transfers – unless specified in the itinerary.
  • Airport arrival or departure taxes.
  • Passport, visa, reciprocity and vaccination fees and charges.
  • Travel insurance or emergency evacuation charges.
  • Hotel accommodation and meals – unless specified in the itinerary.
  • Optional excursions and optional activity surcharges.
  • All items of a personal nature, including but not limited to alcoholic beverages and soft drinks (outside of dinner service), gratuities, laundry services, personal clothing, medical expenses, wi-fi, email or phone charges.

Note: A $15 USD per person per day gratuity for the crew is automatically added to your onboard account. It is at your discretion if you would like to remove the tip (or adjust the amount) when you settle your bill. It is not necessary to tip the expedition team members. This gratuity amount is included for suites as part of their ‘Suite Benefits’.