Arrive in Ushuaia, the world's southernmost town. Explore the quaint city or local countryside. Alternatively, consider a day trip off the beaten track to the raw, natural archipelago of Tierra del Fuego. This is a hiker's paradise, with rugged, snow-capped mountains, glaciers, flower-filled meadows and boggy quagmires. In the afternoon, you'll board your ship, and your journey begins as you navigate through the Beagle Channel.

Following the ocean currents of the South Atlantic, you'll head towards the rarely-visited Falkland Islands (Islas Malvinas). The waters around the Falklands are some of the richest in the world, with huge whale, seal and penguin populations feeding where cold Antarctic waters meet the warmer waters of the South Atlantic, so keep binoculars at the ready! Otherwise, join the Expedition Team lecturers to hear about these islands' fascinating history, biology and unique 'Kelper' (as the locals call themselves) culture.

On your first day in the Falklands you'll venture to some of the outer islands in the West Falkland, where you can encounter a rich variety of wildlife. Southern Rockhopper Penguins, Black-Browed Albatross and King Cormorants commonly nest together in vast cliffside colonies. The islands are home to a vast number of other bird species such as the endearingly cheeky Striated Caracara (watch all unattended possessions!), and in the water a number of species new to us such as commerson's dolphins and South American sealions can be seen playing.

The following day, you'll  explore Port Stanley. Highlights in the city include Christchurch Cathedral, the southernmost Anglican cathedral on Earth, as well as excellent shops selling local products, cafes and pubs offering a warm welcome, and several excellent museums.

You will continue your journey into the open sea, just as Ernest Shackleton and his men did more than a hundred years ago. After passing Elephant Island at close distance, you will reach mighty South Georgia after just a few days at sea. South Georgia offers stunning wildlife experiences with a wealth of breeding penguins, sea birds, sea lions and seals, all seeking shelter in this oasis. You will explore the fjords of the north coast for 2-3 days, making shore landings as often as possible.

A wide variety of animals now call South Georgia home, despite its history as a damaged ecosystem. After Cook arrived, the island—which had been occupied by sealers before—became the biggest whaling destination in the world. Europeans imported reindeer and brown rats, which decimated the island's original flora. But the island is back to its former splendor thanks to massive conservation initiatives. The island is now inhabited by a diverse array of wildlife, including hundreds of thousands of King Penguins and Antarctic fur seals. Pippits, Pintail Ducks, petrels, albatross, shags, fur seal pups, and various types of whales are among the island's varied wildlife. South Georgia is rich in history and culture, and the Expedition Team and Captain will make the most of their time there by exploring penguin colonies, old whaling stations, and Grytviken, a site rich in exploratory tradition.

Sailing onward, you will cross the Drake Passage - a body of water that marks the intersection of the cold Antarctic with the warmer Atlantic and Pacific Oceans. The Drake Passage is known for rollicking conditions and strong westerly winds, called the Roaring Fifties. While this passage may be challenging, you can rest assured aboard Albatros expedition vessels, which are purpose-built with stabilizers, powerful engines and a highly-qualified crew.

This Antarctic adventure begins in the South Shetland Islands, a rich wildlife area with Gentoo and Chinstrap Penguin colonies and giant seabirds. The next days you will explore the Gerlache Strait region, a icy region with numerous glaciated and mountainous islands. The itinerary includes Zodiac cruises in Paradise Bay, penguin care on Cuverville Island, and hikes over active glaciers. Historic huts and ship cruises through the Lemaire Channel showcase the region's beauty. As the vessel heads towards South Georgia, you may visit Elephant Island, a mythical grim island where Shackleton's men sheltered for months. The expedition team offers lectures and offers the comfort of the vessels, including wine-tasting, hot tubs, and massages in the Polar Spa.

This adventure concludes with a return to Ushuaia, Argentina. The ship will offer a variety of activities for you to reflect on your experience. Enjoy a carefully prepared beverage in the Nordic Bar with new acquaintances, learn from our Expedition Team in talks in the Shackleton Lounge, or watch the albatross fly westward. Join the Captain and Senior Officers for the Farewell Cocktail Party and our onboard photographer's photo and video presentation on your last night onboard to relive your Antarctic journey. Skål! 

On the morning of the final day of your voyage, we will arrive back at the pier of Ushuaia, Argentina. Trees, grass and a busy city may seem strange to you after the white wilderness of Antarctica! After a hearty breakfast, it is time to bid a fond farewell to the Crew and Albatros Expedition Team, and descend the gangway back to dry land with memories of the voyage of a lifetime. 

Secure your space today by calling one of our Travel Specialists on 0203 196 1000