STYLE: Small Ship Luxury Expedition Cruise
Trip Code: ACPOLYAL
DIFFICULTY RATING: 2 (light adventure)
Start: Buenos Aires, Argentina
Finish: Buenos Aires, Argentina
SHIP: Le Lyrial
Falkland Islands, South Georgia, Antarctica
10/11/2025, 24/01/2026
Dinner & Breakfast at Hotel, All Meals & Beverage Package Whilst On board the Ship
Group transfers throughout & return flights from Buenos Aires to Ushuaia
Hotel & Cabin onboard a ship
Daily Antarctica Excursions in location, Zodiac Cruising, Onboard Expert Lectures & Briefings by the Experienced Expedition Team
NOTE: Itinerary is subject to change depending on weather & ice conditions
Embark on an unparalleled 19-day polar expedition journey through the Southern Ocean, venturing to the wild wonderland of South Georgia, the pristine expanse of Antarctica, and exploring the Falkland Islands. Your voyage commences with a captivating visit to the Falkland Islands, where you'll be escorted by sei whales amid the scenic beauty of its 200-island archipelago, characterized by windswept moors, verdant grasslands, pristine beaches, and rugged cliffs.
Continuing your odyssey, your vessel will navigate towards the steep terrain of South Georgia, renowned for its association with Sir Ernest Shackleton's legendary Endurance Expedition of 1916. Here, towering peaks of the Scotia Arc loom over black-sand beaches, now inhabited by thriving colonies of king penguins, elephant seals, and fur seals.
Finally, you'll reach the awe-inspiring icy shores of Antarctica, the elusive White Continent, adorned with a myriad of white hues across its icebergs, glaciers, and frozen seas. As one of the privileged few to witness this fabled region, you'll be immersed in the realm of seals, whales, seabirds, and various penguin species—Adelie, Gentoo, and Chinstrap—accompanying you on this extraordinary expedition into the heart of nature's marvels.
*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 Superior Staterooms and Owners Suite. 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 availability.
Prices are correct at time of publishing (13 August 2024) but are subject to change at any time until the time of booking and terms and conditions apply. Please contact us for more information and enquire for details and availability.
Your cruise includes a pre-embarkation night in Buenos Aires. You can check in in the late morning where you will be met at the hotel by our local representative. The rest of the afternoon will be spent 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.
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 is evocative of journeys to the unlikely and the inaccessible.
During your journey 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 journey without a port of call will also be an opportunity to enjoy the conferences or shows proposed on board, depending on the activities offered, or to do some shopping in the boutique or to meet the local 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.
Make your way through the turbulent Woolly Gut strait and emerge in the stillness of Grave Cove. Located in the northern edge of the Falkland Islands, this bay owes its name to the vestiges of whalers’ graves that overlook the beach. As you step off the boat and onto the white-sand beach, you might find yourself escorted by a few hospitable Commerson's dolphins, elegantly adorned in black and white. A stroll along the grassy dunes will lead you to a vast plain of lush green grass, tended by a few sheep. On the other side of the island you'll find one of the largest gentoo penguin colonies in the area. With some luck, you'll also glimpse a sea lion scouring the waves for his next meal.
New Island has a distinctive jagged relief is located on the western edge of the Falkland Islands and is home to a tiny village of two families. Step onto the golden sand of its flower-lined beaches, beside which an old stone house still stands, and you'll feel like you've entered a natural paradise. A narrow pathway weaves around typical Falkland moorlands. Follow it and in under 20 minutes you'll find yourself at the heart of a colony of southern rockhopper penguins, black-browed albatross and imperial shags. It's the perfect opportunity to watch the albatross swoop down from the cliffs and skim the waves that crash against the rocks on the exposed side of the island.
During your journey 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 journey without a port of call will also be an opportunity to enjoy the conferences or shows proposed on board, depending on the activities offered, or to do some shopping in the boutique or to meet the local 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.
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 recognize by the bright orange mark on their head and neck, have taken up residence there.
During your journey 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 journey without a port of call will also be an opportunity to enjoy the conferences or shows proposed on board, depending on the activities offered, or to do some shopping in the boutique or to meet the local 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.
Succumb to the magic of a place unlike any other. To this day, the mythical Antarctic Peninsula still holds real fascination and promises its visitors unforgettable moments. Throughout your adventure in this icy realm, you will find yourself in the heart of a spectacular decor in subtle shades of blue and white, surrounded by exceptional wildlife. Penguins, humpback whales, seals and giant petrels are at home here, as are elephant seals, fur seals, Antarctic minke whales, and orcas. Depending on which sites you will be lucky enough to visit, you may get the chance to observe them and share with them the beauty of these extreme parts.
Each day, based on ice conditions, the Captain and the Expedition Leader will suggest zodiac outings or landings to discover the infinite riches of the Antarctic Peninsula. Glaciers, ice floe, tabletop icebergs, mountain peaks that plunge straight into the sea, volcanic beaches, research stations, enchanting bays, and vestiges of the whaling industry: these are the faces of the Antarctic that will likely reveal themselves to you, in a hushed and surreal atmosphere. You will sail in the wake of Jean-Baptiste Charcot, Adrien de Gerlache and Sir Ernest Shackleton, great Antarctic explorers who, from the 19th century, set out to conquer these remote and uninhabited lands.
If there is one place, one sea, one waterway dreaded by tourists, researchers and hardened seafarers alike, it is undoubtedly Drake Passage. Situated at the latitude of the infamous Furious Fifties winds, between Cape Horn and the South Shetland Islands, it is the shortest route to connect Antarctica to South America. Seasoned navigators will tell you that you must earn your visit to the White Continent! As the Antarctic convergence zone where cold currents rising up from the South Pole meet warmer equatorial water masses, Drake Passage harbours a very diverse marine fauna. Don't forget to look to the sky to catch a glimpse of elegant albatross and Cape petrels, playfully floating about in the wind around your ship.
After an extensive journey in Antarctica, say your goodbyes to the crew and fellow travelers as you disembark in Ushuaia. From there, you'll be seamlessly transferred to the airport for your onward travels.
Please note: Cruise itinerary is subject to change depending on weather conditions, ice conditions and other factors.
Explore the Antarctic peninsula and witness the marvel of huge glaciers, blue ice floes and towering icebergs.
Cruise onboard the premium expedition ship Le Lyrial. In Antarctica she takes a maximum of 200 guests. Delight in fine dining and room service and relax after a busy day in your well appointed stateroom.
Enjoy the historic Falkland Islands and learn more about the history of expedition pioneers and whaling in this region.
Marvel at a range of wildlife on the island of South Georgia. Here you will find penguin and seal colonies numbering in the tens of thousands.
A sleek silhouette, a welcoming intimate atmosphere, discover aboard this modern ship the philosophy that has made this ship such a success: the spirit of Yacht Cruises. Sailing under the French flag, this magnificent yacht of only 122 staterooms and Suites, with balconies, was built in April 2015. You will be enchanted by the contemporary décor inspired by the destinations the vessel visits and the blue light of the Vega star in the Lyra constellation. The result is a subtle variation around a palette of blues, ranging from the luminous delicate grey-blue of the Polar ice to splashes of the vivid turquoise blue found in Mediterranean coves. A refined ambiance is enhanced by the quality of the workmanship and materials: white Corian counters in the lobby contrast with the warmth of leather to recall a boat’s hull, while the central sculpture of enameled pieces takes its inspiration from the sea. In the lounge bar, the carpet picks up a tennis stripe theme symbolising a certain idea of cruising, one synonymous with French elegance and a chic seaside spirit. The ship is well equipped for the polar regions and mixes luxury and creature comforts with the thrill of expedition. In Antarctica it will sail with a maximum of 200 guests. Your voyage includes room service and an in cabin minibar as well as an onboard afternoon tea daily and most beverages. You can relax onboard with a spa, gym, library and pool. In the evening enjoy a mix of traditional entertainment and lectures from your naturalist guides.
Ice Class:
Length: 142m (466ft)
Breadth: 18m (59 ft)Max
Draft: Cruising
Speed:
Electricity: Passenger
Capacity:260
View Ship Details
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.
Comfortable properties with dependable facilities and service.
Comfortable properties with dependable facilities and service.
Luxurious properties with impeccable facilities and service.
Optional Activities vary for each itinerary. Limited spaces available. Contact your Destination Specialist for pricing & availability.
Experience the unforgettable thrill and serenity of kayaking in Antarctica as part of a small, expertly guided paddling group.
Learn MoreGreat Austral Loop | Le Lyrial from £ 15,797 | ||
Departing | Ending | Duration |
---|---|---|
10 Nov 2025 | 28 Nov 2025 | 19 |
01 Jan 1970 | 19 Jan 1970 | 19 |
Prices are based on per person, twin share.
Prices are correct at time of publishing but are subject to change at any time.
Itinerary is subject to change depending on weather and ice conditions.
INCLUSIONS
Cabin accommodation whilst on board Le Lyrial
1-night accommodation in a 4* hotel the night before embarkation
Arrival Shuttle Transfer from Airport to Hotel Transfer in Buenos Aires
Group Transfer from Hotel to Airport on Day of Embarkation
Return flights from Buenos Aires to Ushuaia in economy class
Group Arrival & Departure Transfers in Ushuaia
All meals whilst on board
Open bar (no premium brands)
Mini bar in your stateroom (Champagne additional fee)
All scheduled landings and excursions, conditions permitting
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
Airfares other than specified
Visa and reciprocity fees (if applicable)
Travel Insurance
Personal expenses such as laundry
Gratuities for the crew (recommend US$15 per person per day)
Optional Activities not mentioned in itinerary
Available upon request, contact us for more details.
Departure date, fuel surcharges, cabin category, currency fluctuations, seasonality and availability.