Penguins of the Far South Falkland / Malvinas, South Georgia and Antarctica


Falkland, South Georgia, Antarctica
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Duration: 20 days
Starts: Ushuaia, Argentina
Ends: Ushuaia, Argentina
Language: Englsih speaking voyage

The itinerary is a guide only and is subject to change due to weather and ice conditions. Your Captain and Expedition Leader will make the necessary adjustments to ensure the best possible experience.


Included
Optional


The Antarctic region offers so many extraordinary things to see and do, and traveling with Quark Expeditions offers multiple options to personalize your experience. We’ve designed this guide to help you identify what interests you most, so that you can start planning your version of the perfect Antarctic expedition.

The 20–day Penguins of the Far South: Falkland / Malvinas, South Georgia & Antarctica itinerary is a fantastic way to get to the rarely visited Falkland / MalvinasIslands and South Georgia before setting foot on the 7th Continent. Stroll the quaint English village of Stanley in the Falkland / Malvinas, wander the islands’ sandy dunes, and birdwatch at rugged seabird cliffs. In South Georgia, discover the beaches where king penguins breed—one of the highest densities of animal life on Earth, and learn about the rich historical legacy of the places you visit. Both islands are known as meccas for wildlife with epic displays of animals congregating by the thousands. Then, explore the stunning Antarctic Peninsula and enter a world of ice, snow and natural wonders. Pursue your personal passions with a choice of rewarding activities and our extensive educational program.

Antarctica has been inspiring explorers for centuries and our expeditions offer the chance for you to discover why. We’re excited to host you on your unforgettable adventure. Feel free to reach out to our team of Polar Travel Advisers who can answer your questions and provide assistance at any time.

Highlights
See 150,000 pairs of king penguins at St. Andrew’s Bay, the largest rookery on South Georgia
Explore Antarctica with the best expedition in the industry
Wander the quaint British town of Stanley
Follow in the wake of Sir Ernest Shackleton’s perilous voyages to South Georgia
Explore the Antarctic Peninsula by ship, Zodiac, kayak and foot
Enjoy presentations by our onboard polar experts
Enjoy an optional kayaking excursion

Itinerary

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Day 1: Arrive in 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.

Day 2: Embark
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.

Day 3: 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.

Day 4 & 5: Falkland / Malvinas Islands
Upon your arrival in the Falkland / 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 / Malvinas and West Falkland / Malvinas, 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 / Malvinas 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 Falkland / Malvinas.

Day 6 & 7: At Sea
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.

Day 8 to 11: South Georgia
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.

Day 12 & 13: At Sea
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.

Day 14 to 17: South Shetland Islands and Antarctic Peninsula
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!

Day 18 & 19: Crossing the Drake Passage
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.

Day 20: 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.

Itinerary

Day 1: Arrive in 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.

Day 2: Embark
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.

Day 3: 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.

Day 4 & 5: Falkland / Malvinas Islands
Upon your arrival in the Falkland / 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 / Malvinas and West Falkland / Malvinas, 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 / Malvinas 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 Falkland / Malvinas.

Day 6 & 7: At Sea
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.

Day 8 to 11: South Georgia
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.

Day 12 & 13: At Sea
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.

Day 14 to 17: South Shetland Islands and Antarctic Peninsula
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!

Day 18 & 19: Crossing the Drake Passage
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.

Day 20: 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.


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INCLUSIONS

An official Quark Expeditions parka to keep
Leadership throughout the voyage by our experienced Expedition Team, including shore landings and other activities
All Zodiac transfers and cruising as per the daily program
All shore landings as per the daily program
Shipboard accommodation with daily housekeeping
All meals, snacks, soft drinks and juices on board throughout your voyage. Please inform us of any dietary requirements as far in advance as possible. Unfortunately, the ships’ galleys cannot prepare kosher meals.
Free beer, standard wines, spirits, and cocktails during bar service hours and dinner
Complimentary coffee, tea and cocoa available around the clock
Formal and informal presentations by our Expedition Team and guest speakers as scheduled
A photographic journal documenting your expedition
A pair of waterproof expedition boots on loan for landings and Zodiac cruising excursions
Hair dryer and bathrobes in every cabin
Complimentary Wi-Fi service on one device permitting basic Internet browsing, email, posting on social media and voice applications. (Premium packages are available for more data-intensive applications.)
All miscellaneous service taxes and port charges throughout the program
All luggage handling aboard the ship
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. (Note: The number of guests per room is the same as cabin occupancy on the ship. Due to limited availability, travelers who reserve a suite on board are accommodated in standard rooms at the hotel. Triple rooms may not be available.)
Group transfer from hotel to ship on embarkation day
Group departure transfer upon disembarkation in Ushuaia from ship to local airport or to luggage storage facility

EXCLUSIONS

International airfare
Passport and applicable visa expenses
Government arrival and departure taxes not mentioned
Meals unless otherwise specified
Baggage, cancellation, interruption and medical travel insurance—strongly recommended
Excess-baggage fees on international and domestic flights
Mandatory waterproof pants for Zodiac landing and cruising excursions, or any other gear not mentioned
Laundry, bar, spa services and other personal charges, unless specified
Phone charges may vary by location
Our basic complimentary Wi-Fi service does not include Premium packages which enable more data-intensive applications
Voluntary gratuity at the end of the voyage for expedition staff and shipboard crew
Additional overnight accommodation
Arrival and departure transfers, except where explicitly stated
Adventure Options not listed in Included Activities


Dates & Rates


Ship: Ocean Explorer | Date: 25 Oct 2026 - 13 Nov 2026 (3924)
Triple Suite
$28,595
$24,306
Deluxe Veranda Forward
$31,895
$27,111
Veranda Stateroom
$33,595
$28,556
Veranda Suite
$35,595
$30,256
Studio Single
$41,995
$39,266
Penthouse Suite
$48,695
$41,391
Studio Veranda Single
$45,395
$42,411
Owners Suite
$52,095
$44,281
Ship: Ocean Explorer | Date: 10 Feb 2027 - 01 Mar 2027 (3925)
Triple Suite
$32,995
$31,346
Deluxe Veranda Forward
$36,895
$35,051
Veranda Stateroom
$38,795
$36,856
Veranda Suite
$41,095
$39,041
Studio Single
$53,295
$50,631
Penthouse Suite
$56,195
$53,386
Studio Veranda Single
$57,595
$54,716
Owners Suite
$60,095
$57,091
Ship: Ocean Explorer | Date: 14 Feb 2028 - 04 Mar 2028 (4745)
Triple Suite
$41,895
$39,801
Deluxe Veranda Forward
$46,895
$44,551
Veranda Stateroom
$49,295
$46,831
Veranda Suite
$52,295
$49,681
Studio Single
$67,795
$64,406
Penthouse Suite
$71,495
$67,921
Studio Veranda Single
$73,195
$69,530
Owners Suite
$76,395
$72,576

* The prices are per person in US Dollars, unless expressly specified in a different currency. In that case, payment will be in US dollars at the exchange rate of the day.
** Rates are correct at the time of publication. All prices will be re-confirmed by email at the time of booking.
NOTE: Embracing the unexpected is part of the legacy—and excitement—of expedition travel. When traveling in extremely remote regions, your expedition staff must allow the sea, the ice and the weather to guide route and itinerary details. This itinerary is a tentative outline of what you’ll experience on this voyage; please be aware that no specific itinerary can be guaranteed.

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