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Penguins of the Far South: Falklands, South Georgia and Antarctica | Ocean Explorer

- $250 USD/$325 AUD Adventure Option Credit 
- 2 Free Visits Priority Pass Airport Lounge
- $100 USD Global Experiences Card

Combinable with advertised discounts & Pay-In-Full Savings
Valid until 31 May 25 
See detailed promotional T&Cs below

20 Days
Save Up To 15%

WAS From NZD 43,495   Now From NZD 37,188

STYLE: Small Ship Expedition Cruise

Trip Code: ACQEPFSA

DIFFICULTY RATING: 2 (Light Adventure)

Start: Ushuaia, Argentina

Finish: Ushuaia, Argentina

SHIP: Ocean Explorer

DestinationDestination

Antarctica, Falkland Islands, South Georgia, Antarctic Peninsula

MealsMeals

Breakfast At Hotel; All Meals, Snacks, Soft Drinks, Juices On Board, Coffee, Tea And Cocoa Throughout Your Voyage; Select Beer, Wines, Spirits, And Cocktails During Bar Service Hours And Dinner

TransportTransport

Group Transfers Throughout

TransportAccommodation

Hotel & Cabin On Board Ship



Enquire Now
map

Included SightseeingIncluded Sightseeing

Daily Antarctica Excursions, Zodiac Cruising, Onboard Expert Lectures & Briefings By The Experienced Expedition Team

 

NOTE: Itinerary Is Subject To Change Depending On Weather & Ice Conditions

OVERVIEW

The Antarctic region offers incredible experiences. This 20-day itinerary takes you to the often-overlooked Falkland Islands and South Georgia, before reaching Antarctica. In the Falklands, you can explore the charming village of Stanley, walk along sandy dunes, and enjoy birdwatching. South Georgia offers beaches where king penguins breed, surrounded by abundant wildlife. Afterward, you’ll journey to the Antarctic Peninsula, a stunning region of ice, snow, and natural beauty. Throughout the trip, you’ll have opportunities to engage in various activities and take part in educational programs. Antarctica has inspired explorers for centuries, and this expedition offers a chance to experience its wonders.

ITINERARY

Arrive Ushuaia, Argentina

Your gateway for this expedition is Ushuaia, Argentina. Located within the Tierra del Fuego archipelago, Ushuaia has a small-town feel yet boasts many shops, museums, cafés and restaurants that you can enjoy before your voyage. If you’re feeling adventurous, the nearby Tierra del Fuego National Park and Martial Glacier offer plenty of outdoor activities, such as hiking.

Embarkation in Ushuaia

As you embark, the anticipation grows. Trade your land legs for sea legs, meet and greet your fellow travelers and get acquainted with your ship. Since every Antarctic adventure presents new opportunities and experiences, embarkation day is just as exciting for your Expedition Team as it is for you. On board your team will be there both to ensure your comfort and safety as well as help make your wildlife dreams come true.

At Sea

Your days at sea are filled with presentations led by your Expedition Team on 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.

Falkland Islands - Day  4 & 5

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 excursions.

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 the cathedral and museum.

In terms of wildlife, the archipelago is 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 expert education team will enrich your understanding of the local flora and fauna, making the most out of your time in the Falklands.

At Sea - Day 6 & 7

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 nourish the abundance of krill that attracts whales, seals, and birdlife 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 this nutrient-rich area.

South Georgia - Day 8 to 11

This remote, mountainous island was a popular stop for many historic Antarctic expeditions and was once known for whale– and seal–hunting. 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, its incredible densities of wildlife make it truly memorable. Each landing you make on South Georgia, often referred to as the Galapagos of the Southern Sea, will open your eyes to the wondrous lives of new, enthralling creatures.

One day you may see colonies with hundreds of thousands of pairs of king penguins waddling on shore, and the next, you may visit another beach inhabited by hundreds 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 instill in you during your time here.

At Sea - Day 12 & 13

Say goodbye to the king penguins as you leave for your next destination: Antarctica! Your days at sea are filled with presentations, workshops, and social activities led by your Expedition Team.

If conditions allow, we may attempt landfall on the South Orkney Islands, our first official stop in Antarctica.

South Shetland & Antarctica - Day 12 & 13

The most common reaction upon reaching the Antarctic Continent is a sense of reverence and awe. The experience is beyond words, since few places are as untouched and enduring as Antarctica.

You will discover that Antarctica is a land of extremes. At one moment you’ll be overcome with a feeling of complete isolation and silence, and at the next moment you’ll be inspired by nature as a calving glacier crashes into a brilliant blue sea or a curious penguin waddles by to observe the human.

Your Expedition Team will take care of you at each excursion, whether you are Zodiac cruising, visiting a historical site or consorting with penguin colonies.

Chinstrap, Adélie and gentoo penguins are found here, along with Weddell, fur, crabeater and leopard seals. During Zodiac cruises, keep an eye out for Antarctic whales such as minkes, as you may get a chance for an intimate experience with these majestic animals. Each day and each excursion will present a new collection of creatures to entertain you and keep your camera busy.

As exciting as the Zodiac excursions and landings are, perhaps you’ll treat yourself to an extra-special Antarctic experience by partaking in an optional paddling excursion (at an extra cost) or cast reason aside and jump into Antarctic waters for the Polar Plunge!

Crossing the Drake Passage - Day 18 & 19

After more than two weeks of endless wildlife encounters, your journey home begins. Crossing the Drake is your unofficial rite of passage, completing your Antarctic adventure. Enjoy your final moments celebrating with your fellow shipmates and savor the silence of the sea as long as you can.

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.

*Please note: Cruise itinerary is subject to change depending on weather conditions, ice conditions and other factors.

DOWNLOAD ITINERARY PDF

WHY CHOOSE THIS CRUISE?

  • Visit St. Andrew’s Bay on South Georgia to see 150,000 pairs of king penguins

  • Wander through the charming British town of Stanley and trace the historic routes of Sir Ernest Shackleton’s voyages to South Georgia

  • Explore the Antarctic Peninsula by ship, Zodiac, kayak, and foot, while enjoying presentations by onboard polar experts and the option to join a kayaking excursion

Ocean Explorer

Ocean Explorer

Utilising the best ships and expedition crew is necessary to venture further in the Polar Regions. We have both of them. In terms of elegance, adventure, and cutting-edge technology, Ocean Explorer is the ideal complement to our fleet. For our sophisticated polar explorers, Ocean Explorer enhances the polar experience on all fronts. 

The Ulstein X-Bow, the industry-leading X-Bow design, ensures that your clients will glide through even the roughest waves with ease. In any polar sea state, the ship's distinctive forward-sloping X-Bow reduces vibration, noise, and impact for a comfortable ride. The ship is equipped with the newest sustainability technologies, including fuel-efficient Rolls-Royce engines and the revolutionary MAGS gasification system, which turns garbage into energy and reduces the environmental effect of waste transportation. Equipped with a fleet of 15 Zodiacs and four distinct sea-level embarkation locations, Ocean Explorer provides a wide range of off-ship experiences, such as Zodiac cruising and kayaking, enabling your guests to experience a close-up encounter with the Antarctic and Arctic wilderness.

Every interior feature on board, including the striking two-story forward lounge, the floor to ceiling glass retreat in the library, and the elegant fittings and furniture throughout the ship, has been meticulously chosen by designers to ensure that visitors have a wonderful experience. The roomy and opulent cabins guarantee your guests a peaceful stay free from noise pollution from nearby rooms, and nearly every cabin has an outdoor balcony. Two outdoor Jacuzzis and a dry sauna are available for your clients to relax in after a full day of activities off-ship.

 

Ice Class: Length: 342 ft (104.4 m)
Breadth: 60.3 ft (18.4 m)Max
Draft: Cruising
Speed:
Electricity: 220V (European) & USB-A ports in night lights Passenger
Capacity:
138

View Ship Details

Accommodation

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.

Standard

Comfortable properties with dependable facilities and service.

Superior

Comfortable properties with dependable facilities and service.

Deluxe

Luxurious properties with impeccable facilities and service.

OPTIONAL ADVENTURES ADD ONS

These can be booked in advance at an extra cost. Activities vary by itinerary and destination.

Kayaking

Experience the unforgettable thrill and serenity of kayaking in Antarctica as part of a small, expertly guided paddling group.

Learn More

Day Paddling

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Pricing per person

Junior Suite

Features:-

Located on Deck 6 and approximately 298 sq. f. (27.7 sq. m,) in size. These 2-room suites have one double bed that can be configured into two singles in the inner bedroom and an outer sitting room furnished with a sofa-bed, and activity table for two. From the bedroom there a floor to ceiling glass view that opens to a double sized walkout balcony. There are also 2 TV's, state of the art 'infotainment' system and private bathroom with bathtub, vanity and heated floor.

14 % off

NZD 57,195 NZD 48,902

Available

Enquire Now
  • Single Room
  • Double Room

Owners Suite

Features:-

This palatial, airy apartment offers stunning views from its large private veranda on the highest cabin level. The luxurious suite features a large master bedroom, living room and dining area and two large master bathrooms, among other amenities.

14 % off

NZD 70,795 NZD 60,530

Available

Enquire Now
  • Single Room
  • Double Room

Penthouse Suite

Features:-

This unique 2-room suite is located on Deck 7 and is approximately 269 sq. f (25.0 sq. m.) in size. It has one double bed that can be configured into two singles in the inner bedroom.and the outer sitting area is furnished with a sofa-bed. Walk-out from either room to a double sized balcony . There are also 2 TV's, state of the art 'infotainment' system and private bathroom with shower, vanity and heated floor. And an additional powder room in the outside sitting area.

15 % off

NZD 66,295 NZD 56,682

Available

Enquire Now
  • Single Room
  • Double Room

Veranda Stateroom

Features:-

Located throughout the ship and approximately 208 sq. f. (19.3 sq. m,) in size, these cabins have one double bed that can be configured into two singles, and seperate sitting area furnished with two club chairs and a reading table. There is a floor to ceiling glass view that opens to a walkout balcony. There is also a desk and chair, TV, state of the art 'infotainment' system and private bathroom with shower, vanity and heated floor. Note: 611 and 612 do not have the club chairs and a reading table.

15 % off

NZD 45,695 NZD 39,069

Available

Enquire Now
  • Single Room
  • Double Room
  • Double Room Shared (Male)
  • Double Room Shared (Female)

Deluxe Veranda Forward

Features:-

Located on Deck 4 and approximately 182 sq. f. (16.9 sq. m,) in size, these cabins have one double bed that can be configured into two singles. There is a floor to ceiling glass view that opens to a walkout balcony. There is also a desk and chair, TV, state of the art 'infotainment' system and private bathroom with shower, vanity and heated floor.

15 % off

NZD 43,495 NZD 37,188

Available

Enquire Now
  • Single Room
  • Double Room
  • Double Room Shared (Male)
  • Double Room Shared (Female)

Studio Veranda Single

Features:-

Designed for one. This unique cabin is located on Deck 7 and approximately 162 sq. f. (15.1 sq. m.). It has one twin bed with a floor to ceiling glass view that opens to a generous walkout balcony. There is also TV, state of the art 'infotainment' system and private bathroom with shower, vanity and heated floor.

15 % off

NZD 61,695 NZD 52,749

Available

Enquire Now
  • Single Room

Studio Single

Features:-

Designed for one. These cabins are located on Deck 3 and approximately 166 sq. ft. (15,4 sq. m,) in size, with one double bed and a porthole view. There is also a desk and chair, TV, state of the art 'infotainment' system and private bathroom with shower, vanity and heated floor.

15 % off

NZD 57,195 NZD 48,901

Available

Enquire Now
  • Single Room

Veranda Suite

Features:-

Located throughout the ship and approximately 205 sq. ft. (19.2 sq. m,) in size, these cabins have one double bed that can be configured into two singles, and seperate sitting area furnished with a sofa-bed.  There is a floor to ceiling glass view that opens to a walkout balcony.  There is also a desk and chair, TV, state of the art 'infotainment' system and private bathroom with shower, vanity and heated floor.

15 % off

NZD 48,595 NZD 41,548

Available

Enquire Now
  • Single Room
  • Double Room
  • Double Room Shared (Male)
  • Double Room Shared (Female)

Junior Suite

Features:-

Located on Deck 6 and approximately 298 sq. f. (27.7 sq. m,) in size. These 2-room suites have one double bed that can be configured into two singles in the inner bedroom and an outer sitting room furnished with a sofa-bed, and activity table for two. From the bedroom there a floor to ceiling glass view that opens to a double sized walkout balcony. There are also 2 TV's, state of the art 'infotainment' system and private bathroom with bathtub, vanity and heated floor.

14 % off

NZD 57,195 NZD 48,902

Available

Enquire Now
  • Single Room
  • Double Room

Owners Suite

Features:-

This palatial, airy apartment offers stunning views from its large private veranda on the highest cabin level. The luxurious suite features a large master bedroom, living room and dining area and two large master bathrooms, among other amenities.

14 % off

NZD 70,795 NZD 60,530

Available

Enquire Now
  • Single Room
  • Double Room

Penthouse Suite

Features:-

This unique 2-room suite is located on Deck 7 and is approximately 269 sq. f (25.0 sq. m.) in size. It has one double bed that can be configured into two singles in the inner bedroom.and the outer sitting area is furnished with a sofa-bed. Walk-out from either room to a double sized balcony . There are also 2 TV's, state of the art 'infotainment' system and private bathroom with shower, vanity and heated floor. And an additional powder room in the outside sitting area.

15 % off

NZD 66,295 NZD 56,682

Available

Enquire Now
  • Single Room
  • Double Room

Veranda Stateroom

Features:-

Located throughout the ship and approximately 208 sq. f. (19.3 sq. m,) in size, these cabins have one double bed that can be configured into two singles, and seperate sitting area furnished with two club chairs and a reading table. There is a floor to ceiling glass view that opens to a walkout balcony. There is also a desk and chair, TV, state of the art 'infotainment' system and private bathroom with shower, vanity and heated floor. Note: 611 and 612 do not have the club chairs and a reading table.

15 % off

NZD 45,695 NZD 39,069

Available

Enquire Now
  • Single Room
  • Double Room
  • Double Room Shared (Male)
  • Double Room Shared (Female)

Deluxe Veranda Forward

Features:-

Located on Deck 4 and approximately 182 sq. f. (16.9 sq. m,) in size, these cabins have one double bed that can be configured into two singles. There is a floor to ceiling glass view that opens to a walkout balcony. There is also a desk and chair, TV, state of the art 'infotainment' system and private bathroom with shower, vanity and heated floor.

15 % off

NZD 43,495 NZD 37,188

Available

Enquire Now
  • Single Room
  • Double Room
  • Double Room Shared (Male)
  • Double Room Shared (Female)

Studio Veranda Single

Features:-

Designed for one. This unique cabin is located on Deck 7 and approximately 162 sq. f. (15.1 sq. m.). It has one twin bed with a floor to ceiling glass view that opens to a generous walkout balcony. There is also TV, state of the art 'infotainment' system and private bathroom with shower, vanity and heated floor.

15 % off

NZD 61,695 NZD 52,749

Available

Enquire Now
  • Single Room

Studio Single

Features:-

Designed for one. These cabins are located on Deck 3 and approximately 166 sq. ft. (15,4 sq. m,) in size, with one double bed and a porthole view. There is also a desk and chair, TV, state of the art 'infotainment' system and private bathroom with shower, vanity and heated floor.

15 % off

NZD 57,195 NZD 48,901

Available

Enquire Now
  • Single Room

Veranda Suite

Features:-

Located throughout the ship and approximately 205 sq. ft. (19.2 sq. m,) in size, these cabins have one double bed that can be configured into two singles, and seperate sitting area furnished with a sofa-bed.  There is a floor to ceiling glass view that opens to a walkout balcony.  There is also a desk and chair, TV, state of the art 'infotainment' system and private bathroom with shower, vanity and heated floor.

15 % off

NZD 48,595 NZD 41,548

Available

Enquire Now
  • Single Room
  • Double Room
  • Double Room Shared (Male)
  • Double Room Shared (Female)

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Important Information

  • ** Early Booking Bonus Offer - 26/27 Antarctica Season

    Offer of 3 Bonuses Adventure Option Credit, 2 Free Visits Priority Pass Airport Lounge & $100 USD Global Experiences Card for booking early for the 2026/27 Antarctic voyages. Valid on new bookings until 31 May 25 and combinable with advertised discounts, pay in full discounts and past passenger discounts and only valid for specified dates within 26/27 Antarctica season. Applies to all cabins on selected voyages. May be withdrawn or varied at any time at the discretion of the cruise operator. 
    Adventure Option Credit: Book adventure option such as heli-landing, camping, kayaking, paddling, stand-up paddle boarding. Credit is applied to the full RPP brochure price. $325 AUD, $250 USD or U£160 GBP, credit applies. No cash value, name changes not allowed. 
    2 Free Visits Priority Pass Airport Lounge: Two free visits per passenger to over 1,700 airport lounges where guests can enjoy food, drinks, spa treatments, sleeping pods and more. Unique Priority Pass voucher code(s) will be emailed within 30 days of the voyage departure date. Airport lounge visits are based on availability at time of entry and must be completed within one year of activation. The cruise operator does not operate Priority Pass lounges and cannot be held responsible for any loss, damage or injury that occurs in a Priority Pass lounge for any reason.
    $100 USD Global Experiences Card: Can be used to book private transfers to airport or excursions prior to voyage. No cash value, name changes not allowed. Chimu Adventures cannot book any experiences through Global Experiences and these must be booked directly by the guests travelling. The cruise operator does not operate Global Experiences Card and cannot be held responsible for any loss, damage or injury that occurs for any reason. 



    * Current Discounts, promotions and pricing are available until 31 May 2025, however discounts may be withdrawn or changed at any time and are subject to availability on selected cabins and departure dates. Some current in market offers may be combinable and Shackleton Club Past Passenger and multi trip discounts may be applied subject to confirmation at the time of booking. Prices are subject to change based on currency fluctuations, fuel surcharges, and other external factors. No discount applies to any transfer packages, additional activities or pre/post services. The advertised prices may also include a 'Pay in full at time of booking' which is a 5-10% early payment discount, which requires the full balance to be paid at the time of booking to apply. Further conditions may apply, contact us for more information.

    NOTE: Pricing is subject to change, currency fluctuation and availability at the time of booking and may be varied without notice by us or any of the operators and partners we work with. It is only confirmed and guaranteed at the time of making a booking, agreeing to our terms and conditions and paying a deposit. 

  • Prices are based on per person, twin share* (unless otherwise stated)

    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*

    NOTE: The number of guests per room is the same as cabin occupancy on the ship. Due to limited availability, travellers who reserve a suite on board are accommodated in standard rooms at the hotel. Triple rooms may not be available

  • INCLUSIONS

    An expedition parka to keep
    All shore landings per the daily program, weather permitting
    Shipboard accommodation 
    All meals, snacks, soft drinks and juices on board throughout your voyage
    Select beer, wines, spirits, and cocktails during bar service hours and dinner
    Coffee, tea and cocoa around the clock
    Presentations by expedition team & special guests
    Downloadable photographic journal documenting the expedition
    Expedition boots on loan for shore landings
    Hairdryer and bathrobe available in every cabin
    All miscellaneous service taxes and port charges throughout the program
    Luggage handling aboard the ship
    Wi-Fi service on one device permitting basic internet browsing, email, posting on social medial and voice applications (Premium packages are available for purchase for more data-intensive applications)
    Emergency Evacuation Insurance for all passengers to a maximum benefit of US$500,000 per person
    Group arrival transfer in Ushuaia from airport to pre-expedition hotel on Day 1
    One night's pre-expedition hotel accommodation in Ushuaia with breakfast
    Group transfer from hotel to ship on embarkation day
    Group departure transfer upon disembarkation in Ushuaia from ship to local airport 

     

    EXCLUSIONS

    Any airfare unless otherwise specified in the itinerary
    Passport and visa expenses
    Government arrival and departure taxes
    Any meals unless otherwise specified
    Travel insurance
    Alcohol and bar service does not include spirits
    Excess baggage charges
    Mandatory waterproof pants for Zodiac cruising, or any other gear not mentioned
    Laundry, spa services, bar, beverage and other personal charges unless specified
    Telecommunications charges
    Data card does not include premium packages which enable more data-intensive applications
    Voluntary staff and crew gratuities
    Additional overnight accommodation
    Arrival and departure transfers, except where stated
    Paid Adventure Options

  • 2 (Light Adventure)
  • Available upon request, a supplement surcharge applies and is subject to availability. Please contact us for more information.

  • Departure date, fuel surcharges, cabin category, currency fluctuations, seasonality and availability.

FROM PRICE & PROMOTIONAL DETAILS

  • See 'Pricing & Dates' tab for detailed departures, pricing and availability
  • Early Bonus Offer valid until 31 May 2025**


Please Contact Us for the latest availability, pricing and details of your preferred voyage. Chimu Adventures are Arctic Experts and we will endeavour to find you the perfect Antarctica expedition cruise to ensure you have an unforgettable adventure!

See detailed promotional T&Cs below

NOTE: Pricing is subject to change, currency fluctuation and availability at the time of booking and may be varied without notice by us or any of the operators and partners we work with. It is only confirmed and guaranteed at the time of making a booking, agreeing to our terms and conditions and paying a deposit.