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Epic Antarctica: Crossing the Circle via Falklands & South Georgia aboard New Polar Vessel

Epic Antarctica: Crossing the Circle via Falklands & South Georgia aboard New Polar Vessel

From AUD $49,968

Description

Our 23-day Epic Antarctica: The Falklands, South Georgia & Crossing the Circle delivers every major Antarctic highlight in one unforgettable voyage. Begin in the Falkland Islands (Islas Malvinas), home to albatross, dolphins, five species of penguins, and surprisingly white-sand beaches. Continue to South Georgia, populated by 450,000 breeding pairs of king penguins, 50 million seabirds, and 5 million seals. Then explore the magnificent Antarctic Peninsula before crossing the Antarctic Circle—the ultimate milestone for world travelers. Bonus: every guest enjoys an included flightseeing experience, adding yet another extraordinary perspective to this epic adventure.

Trip Name
Epic Antarctica: Crossing the Circle via Falklands & South Georgia aboard New Polar Vessel
Days
23
Overview
Vessel Type: Expedition Ship Length: 128 metres Passenger Capacity: 199 Built: 2019-2020 The Ultramarine is a next-generation polar expedition ship designed to push the boundaries of exploration and comfort. Carrying up to 199 guests, this advanced vessel features two twin-engine helicopters that open access to rarely visited polar regions and breathtaking aerial perspectives. With its expansive wraparound deck, spacious suites, and more outdoor viewing areas than any other ship in its class, Ultramarine offers an unmatched sense of connection with the surrounding landscapes. Its design balances adventure and elegance, featuring stylish lounges, an impressive theatre, two gourmet dining venues, a tranquil spa and sauna with panoramic windows, and a fully equipped fitness centre. Every detail of the ship is crafted for immersive, luxurious discovery in the world’s most remote environments. Setting a new standard in sustainable exploration, Ultramarine is equipped with cutting-edge environmental technology, including the Micro Auto Gasification System (MAGS), which converts waste into energy, and an industry-leading operational range of 40 days. With four embarkation points and an internal Zodiac hangar for faster landings, guests spend more time adventuring and less time waiting. From heli-hiking and exclusive landings to relaxed evenings in the glass-enclosed Panorama Lounge, Ultramarine combines thrilling exploration with exceptional comfort—delivering the ultimate polar expedition experience.

Itinerary



Day 1 - Day 1 Arrive in Buenos Aires, Argentina
Upon arriving in this splendid city, known for its architecture and rich European heritage, you will independently transfer to your group hotel (pre-expedition hotel night included in mandatory transfer package).
Day 2 - Day 2 Fly to Ushuaia and Embark
After an early breakfast at the hotel, the group will transfer to the airport and board our private charter flight to Ushuaia, Argentina. Upon arrival, you will be transferred from the airport to a central downtown location to have some time on your own to explore this quaint port town before making your way to the pier. After a late afternoon embarkation, you will sail along the historic Beagle Channel, which transects the Tierra del Fuego archipelago in the extreme south of South America. Expect an air of anticipation as you depart—the next time you see land, you’ll be in a wildlife wonderland!
Day 3 - Day 3 At Sea
Your days at sea are filled with presentations led by your Expedition Team photography, wildlife, glaciology, and history. In between presentations, spend time on deck looking for wildlife or chatting with your shipmates over a drink at the bar.
Day 4 - Days 4 and 5 Falkland Islands (Islas Malvinas)
Upon your arrival in the Falklands (Malvinas), your camera will get its first real workout capturing the abundant wildlife and rugged feel of this sub-Antarctic region. The archipelago contains two main islands, East Falkland and West Falkland, which you will explore during daily Zodiac excursions and landings. Stanley, also known as Port Stanley, is often a favored landing site, as the town offers a unique British outpost feel, complete with eclectic charm. You’ll be free to explore, grab a pint at the local pub or visit numerous churches and museums. The Archipelago is rich in wildlife, especially birds, and home to Magellanic, gentoo and southern rockhopper penguins. If you’re lucky, you may even spot king penguins here as well! You can expect to see black-browed albatross, plus two endemic bird species—the flightless Falkland steamer duck and possibly the elusive Cobb’s wren. Your team of lecturers and specialists will be sure to educate you on the local flora and fauna, making the most out of your time in the Falklands.
Day 5 - Days 6 and 7 At Sea
Sailing southeast to South Georgia, you’ll officially enter Antarctic waters once you cross the Antarctic Convergence, an invisible biological boundary encircling the continent. This meeting of oceans, where the cold Antarctic waters mix and mingle with the warmer waters of the Indian, Pacific and Atlantic Oceans, helps create the abundance of krill that attracts whales and seals to this part of the world. Your Expedition Team will notify you when you cross this invisible yet important line, and also look out for the seabirds and marine life that frequent the area.
Day 6 - Days 8 to 11 South Georgia
This remote, mountainous island was a popular stop for many historic Antarctic expeditions and was once a haven for hunting whales and seals. Today, island wildlife populations are rebounding, but you’ll still see remnants of old whaling stations and other abandoned outposts. One significant and historic site is the grave of the great explorer Sir Ernest Shackleton. You can visit his grave at the settlement of Grytviken, which is also home to an old whaling station, plus a museum, gift shop, church and small research station. Although South Georgia’s history is an important attraction to the island, it is the tremendous abundance of wildlife that you and your shipmates will surely find most captivating. Each landing you make on South Georgia, often referred to as the Galapagos of the Poles, will open your eyes to the wondrous lives of new, enthralling creatures. One day you may see rookeries with hundreds of thousands of pairs of king penguins waddling on a beach, and the next, you may visit another beach blanketed with thousands of fur or elephant seals. The grasses, mountains and beaches of South Georgia all play an important role in the breeding and survival of different species on the island. This fragile and interwoven relationship is something your Expedition Team will explain to you during your time here.
Day 7 - Days 12 and 13 At Sea
Say goodbye to the king penguins, as your next destination is Antarctica! Your days at sea are filled with presentations, lectures and workshops led by your Expedition Team, who will prepare you for the wildlife that will greet you upon your arrival.
Day 8 - Days 14 to 16 South Shetland Islands and Antarctic Peninsula
The experience is hard to put into words, but the most common reaction upon reaching the White Continent is a sense of reverence and awe. You will discover that Antarctica is a land of extremes: at one moment you’ll be overcome with a feeling of complete silence and solitude; the next, you’ll be laughing at the comical antics of a curious penguin. Zodiac cruising, visits to historical sites and, of course, communing with seals and penguins are sure to keep you smiling every day. Perhaps you’ll catch sight of the fearless penguin eater, the leopard seal, or maybe you’ll come eye to eye with an Antarctic minke whale while you are cruising in a Zodiac. Each day and each excursion will present a new collection of creatures to delight you and keep your camera busy. If you find yourself wanting more, treat yourself to an optional kayaking adventure (reserve in advance when booking your trip) or a plunge into Antarctic waters!
Day 9 - Days 17 and 18 Antarctic Circle
Crossing the Antarctic Circle is an impressive achievement, as few expeditions reach so far south. If conditions allow us to cross this famed line at 66°33´ S, we’ll toast the first explorers who ventured here, and you can raise a glass and take pride in knowing you’ve made it to a part of the world visited by very few people. This is raw Antarctica, home of the midnight sun and fantastic iceberg sightings.
Day 10 - Days 19 and 20 Northbound Along the Peninsula
If you haven’t had your fill of Antarctic wildlife and icebergs by now, you’ll surely be satisfied by the time you return to the Drake Passage. You will continue to make excursions by Zodiac as you travel north along the western Antarctic Peninsula. Your Expedition Team will always be on the lookout for species of seabirds, seals and whales that may have eluded you on your journey south.
Day 11 - Days 21 and 22 Crossing the Drake Passage
After more than three weeks of unique wildlife encounters and remarkable landscapes, your journey home begins. Crossing the Drake is your unofficial rite of passage, putting a final stamp of approval on your Antarctic adventure.
Day 12 - Day 23 Disembarkation in Ushuaia
After breakfast aboard the ship, it is time to part ways and say goodbye to your Expedition Team. Airport transfers will be provided for those departing on the first homeward flights. Other guests will be transferred to town.
Day 13 - Please Note:
Embracing the unexpected is part of the legacy – and excitement – of expedition travel. There are no guarantees that we can achieve everything we set out to accomplish. A measure of flexibility is something all of us must bring to a voyage. There are nearly 200 recognized sites in the Antarctic Peninsula and South Shetlands and the places mentioned above may be changed to others equally as interesting.

Trip Dates

StartEndPrice FromRoom Type
16-01-202707-02-2027AUD $54,842Explorer Triple
16-01-202707-02-2027AUD $64,418Explorer Suite
16-01-202707-02-2027AUD $70,659Balcony Suite
16-01-202707-02-2027AUD $83,484Deluxe Balcony Suite
16-01-202707-02-2027AUD $86,562Terrace Suite
16-01-202707-02-2027AUD $89,726Solo Panorama
16-01-202707-02-2027AUD $92,975Penthouse Suite
16-01-202707-02-2027AUD $115,119Owner's Suite
16-01-202707-02-2027AUD $127,859Ultra Suite
17-01-202808-02-2028AUD $59,031Explorer Suite
17-01-202808-02-2028AUD $64,931Balcony Suite
17-01-202808-02-2028AUD $76,815Deluxe Balcony Suite
17-01-202808-02-2028AUD $79,808Terrace Suite
17-01-202808-02-2028AUD $82,715Solo Panorama
17-01-202808-02-2028AUD $85,707Penthouse Suite
17-01-202808-02-2028AUD $106,484Owner's Suite
17-01-202808-02-2028AUD $118,454Ultra Suite
17-01-202808-02-2028AUD $49,968Explorer Triple

Inclusions

    • Enjoy presentations on wildlife, history, glaciology & geology by our onboard polar experts
    • Explore the quaint British town of Stanley in the Falkland Islands (Islas Malvinas)
    • See incredible wildlife—more than 30 species of breeding birds, including seven species of penguin.
    • Follow in the wake of Sir Ernest Shackleton’s perilous voyage to South Georgia and visit his grave site
    • Cross the Antarctic Circle and celebrate with a toast
    • Immerse yourself in the icy realm of the Antarctic, with an optional paddling excursion

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