Antarctica, Falklands & South Georgia (2009 - 2010)

Traveling to the farthest reaches of the world doesn?t mean you can?t be comfortable! Embark on this ideal introduction to Antarctica aboard a beautiful expedition ship that combines adventure with service and many amenities of a classic passenger vessel. The outstanding cuisine may vie with the landscape and wildlife for your attention. This voyage visits the Falkland Islands, magnificent South Georgia, as well as many of the wildlife and scenic highlights of the South Shetland Islands and Antarctic Peninsula. Passengers can expect to enjoy as much wildlife viewing as possible, but also visits to scientific bases and plenty of time to enjoy the breathtaking scenery of icy waterways, glaciers, icebergs and rugged mountains.

ExpeditionTrips? Program Manager, Joy Martinello, has sailed aboard the Clipper Adventurer. Click to view her travel journal and photos!

Itinerary

Days 1-2: Ushuaia, Tierra del Fuego, Argentina

Arrive in Ushuaia, a small town at the "end of the world" surrounded by rugged peaks and glaciers, and transfer independently to your conveniently located hotel. The following day, in the afternoon, the Expedition Team gets you settled aboard your ship as you sail into the Beagle Channel to start your Antarctic expedition.

Days 18-20: Back across the Drake to Ushuaia

Crossing the Drake Passage, the Expedition Team will recap your adventures and recall the explorers in whose wake you have sailed. You will have gazed at the same shorelines, and marveled at the same stars. As they were, you will be transformed. After docking at Ushuaia, disembark after breakfast and transfer into town for further exploring or head straight on to the airport to catch a flight.

Days 12-17: South Shetlands to the Peninsula

Antarctica, scenery, history and wildlife! As the ship steams south and west, watch for tabular icebergs. When you arrive in the South Shetland Islands, the Expedition Team will attempt an average of two landings a day, subject to permissions, weather, wind and ice conditions, of course. It is here that you may visit an active research station, where scientists track the life cycle of birds and icebergs. You?ll walk with penguins at a rookery, and cruise rocky coastlines where birds rest after a day on the wing.

Amundsen?s quote captures the majesty of Antarctica quite nicely. It is vast, pristine and glorious. Massive glaciers, many covering an area equal to that of a small city, are reflected in still, black water. The sheer scale is humbling.

Setting foot on the Peninsula, remember the brave and determined explorers that have proceeded you--Ross, Scott, Shackleton and Amundsen. They too were captivated by the antics of penguins, curiosity of seals, and the grace of whales swimming.

Days 3-5: Exploring the Falklands (Malvinas)

En route to the Falkland Islands (Islas Malvinas), you learn about Charles Darwin, who visited the islands in 1833. Join your fellow adventurers for an in-depth education program introducing the flora and fauna that you can expect to encounter while visiting the archipelago. Properly prepared, you cruise safely from the ship to shore in a Zodiac to stroll the streets of Stanley or wander through the nesting grounds of the Black-browed Albatross. Sip a leisurely cup of tea with local residents, before you depart for South Georgia.

Days 6-11: South Georgia

A toast to "iron men in wooden ships." On landing in Grytviken, South Georgia, history is on your minds. South Georgia is synonymous with Sir Ernest Shackleton?s rescue of the crew of Endurance. In 1904, Grytviken was established as a whaling station. Your exploration includes a visit to the chapel and museum that depicts how life was lived in this sheltered cove until it was abandoned in 1966.

The second-largest King Penguin colony in the world is on Salisbury Plain. Have your camera ready, it is an unforgettable sight. Later, after supper, share your shots with new friends in the lounge, library or bar.