Antarctica, South Georgia & Falkland Islands | Venture

Referred to as the 'Paris of South America', Buenos Aires is considered as one of the most livable cities in South America. Although the bustling capital city has just under 3,000,000 inhabitants and a population density of 13,680 inhabitants per square kilometer (34,800 per square mile), it was rated in 2018 as one of the top cities on the continent for its ‘quality of life’. Twinned with world cities such as Moscow and Miami, Buenos Aires displays through its architecture, a cultural past rooted in both the Old and New Worlds. A vibrancy for life can be seen everywhere. Crowded public markets, street performers dancing the tango, colorful graffiti-style street art, ultra-modern buildings, a dramatic skyline and a bustling port. Culturally, Buenos Aires has the busiest live theatre industry on Earth, outperforming New York, London and Paris. Every weekend, over 300 theatres are active with plays and productions.

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

Start your day by flying from Buenos Aires to Ushuaia. Upon landing, our team will be ready to pick you up at the airport and ensure a seamless transfer to the ship for embarkation.

Once deemed too harsh for European settlement, Ushuaia's rugged beauty was the realm of its native inhabitants - the Yahgan People. Today, it holds the distinctive title of being the southernmost city on Earth, often referred to as 'the end of the world.' Situated along the banks of the Beagle Channel, Ushuaia unveils itself like an artist's masterpiece. A mosaic of vibrant houses adds a splash of color against the dramatic backdrop of snow-capped mountains. Dominating this breathtaking panorama is Monte Olivia, its jagged peaks soaring 4,530 feet above the landscape.

Embark on the thrilling Drake Passage, where the Pacific, Atlantic, and Southern oceans converge, creating an adventure like no other. Our skilled onboard staff and expedition team ensure your well-being, providing ample opportunities to marvel at the vast ocean expanse. Capture stunning moments as seabirds gracefully dance around the ship, and forge connections with both the Expedition Team and fellow travelers. This unique journey promises not only excitement in navigating the passage but also the chance to immerse yourself in the beauty of the open sea.

Your captain and the skilled expedition team will plan your exploration and adventure in Antarctica based on weather, ice conditions, and reported wildlife distribution during the expedition. This adaptable approach guarantees that you can maximize the benefits of favorable conditions, enriching your experience as you uncover the awe-inspiring landscapes and distinctive wildlife of this pristine continent.

Having immersed yourself in the pristine beauty of Antarctica, set sail towards South Georgia and the Falklands. During these days at sea, ample free time will be at your disposal to luxuriate in the ship's amenities and delve into the geography and wildlife of the region.

The South Georgia Islands Group is one of the least visited destinations on earth. It consists of South Georgia Island and smaller surrounding islands and rocks. Largely untouched and blessed with a sub-Antarctic climate and nutrient-rich seas, it represents a sort of Lost Eden of unspoiled wildlife habitat. Although ice and snow are present, they are strikingly green with vegetation as compared with Antarctica. They teem with wildlife, including massive populations of king and other penguin species, fur seals, elephant seals, albatrosses, giant petrels, and other seabirds. Whales, orcas and dolphins abound offshore in the most diverse marine ecosystem on earth. Your captain and expedition leader plan your days in South Georgia to offer you a variety of experiences in this remote and enchanting destination, based on conditions and wildlife reports. These will certainly include visits to historic communities such as Grytviken, with its memorial to Ernest Shackleton, the immense breeding colony of king penguins on the Salisbury Plain and other highlights, along with less well-known, but equally unforgettable sites. Your veteran expedition team members enrich your experience during presentations and in casual conversations and interpret passing sights during time spent cruising. They will also accompany you on landings at the various sites and excursions in Zodiacs and kayaks.

Following the exploration of the breathtaking South Georgia Island, embark on the journey towards the Falkland Islands. Utilize these two days at sea to relax and indulge in the upscale amenities offered by the cruise ship.

The Falkland Islands are a world unto themselves. This remote archipelago are wind-swept and bathed in stunning natural beauty, magnificent wildlife, and are home to a gregarious mix of people. More than 200 islands dot the waters around the two mainlands of East and West Falkland, presenting landscapes that are breathtakingly pure and stark, yet vibrantly detailed. Here, the shores are devoid of trees but teem with an impressive variety of bird species including albatross, penguins, caracaras, and geese.

The Islands are also steeped in maritime and military history, with over three hundred shipwrecks scattered along their coasts. The serene white crosses marking the final resting places of British and Argentine soldiers serve as silent testaments to the war of 1982. Through the course of their history, many have laid claim to these islands, but today, they stand proud as a self-governing British Overseas Territory.

In Stanley, the extraordinary wildlife of the Falklands is always close at hand. Dolphins often dance at its harbor, while steamer ducks, kelp gulls, and other birds thrive on its shores. Southern sea lions bask in the sun, and Southern giant petrels glide through town, seemingly unfazed by human activity. Established in the 1840s, Stanley was named after Edward Smith-Stanley, Earl of Derby, who never actually set foot on these islands.

Explore Saunders Island, a remote gem in the Falkland Islands with rich history dating back to 1765. The island, marked by Port Egmont where the first British settlers left their legacy, continues its tradition of sheep farming with descendants of the early pioneers still residing here.

Beyond its historical significance, Saunders Island is a thriving wildlife sanctuary. Five penguin species, including king, macaroni, gentoo, rockhopper, and occasional magellanic, contribute to the island's biodiversity. The population also includes 500 steamer ducks, white-bridled finches, and an impressive 22,000 black-browed albatrosses. Keep an eye on the sea for playful dolphins and distant Southern right whales.

Next, visit Carcass Island, an unspoiled haven blending scenic beauty and captivating wildlife. Named after HMS Carcass, which surveyed the area in the 18th century, the island boasts diverse bird species like Magellanic penguins, Black-browed albatrosses, Striated caracaras, and numerous songbirds. With minimal human presence, nature takes the spotlight, offering close encounters with fearless wildlife. The charming settlement warmly welcomes visitors to this vibrant sanctuary.

Explore West Point Island, where a summer colony of black-browed albatrosses and rockhopper penguins thrive among rocky ledges and tussock grass. The island is also home to fur seals, sea lions, and frequent visits from dolphins. Visit Cliff Mountain, reaching 1,250 feet, and meet the Napier family, descendants of original farmers, who operate the traditional sheep farm. Experience the island's breathtaking scenery, abundant wildlife, and the warm hospitality of its two inhabitants, Lily and Roddy Napier.

Head to New Island, one of the world's most remote inhabited islands, featuring gentle eastern shores with sandy bays and turquoise waters. The landscape transforms into rugged cliffs on the western side, hosting over forty species of nesting birds. Discover a diverse wildlife population, including 13,000 gentoo penguins, 26,000 Southern rockhopper penguins, and an impressive 60,000 black-browed albatrosses soaring along the cliffs. Immerse yourself in the rich history of New Island, dating back to the late 1700s, with many whaling ships seeking refuge in its coves and bays from tempestuous weather.

After nearly three weeks of thrilling adventures, take a moment to rest and reflect on your experiences before setting foot in Ushuaia.

Today, as you disembark in Ushuaia, bid farewell to your fellow expedition members and crew before being transported to the airport for a return flight to Buenos Aires.

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