Highlights
From the End of the World: A Polar Expedition Across the Southern Ocean
For many travelers, Antarctica is not merely a destination—it is a commitment to reach the farthest edges of our planet. The Falkland Islands, South Georgia, and Antarctic Peninsula expedition cruise by Oceanwide Expeditions is designed for those who seek to venture beyond the ordinary and into the world’s last great wilderness. The journey begins in Ushuaia, Argentina, the southernmost city in the world, and continues across the legendary Drake Passage toward the remote and life-rich waters of Antarctica.
This voyage is more than transportation; it is a gradual departure from civilization and a return to nature in its purest form. From the vast Southern Ocean and ever-changing polar weather to the first sightings of icebergs and wildlife, travelers will experience Earth at its most raw, powerful, and authentic.
Falkland Islands: A Wildlife Sanctuary of the South Atlantic
The expedition’s first destination is the Falkland Islands, an isolated archipelago in the South Atlantic Ocean and an essential haven for seabirds and marine life. Rugged coastlines, wide-open grasslands, and charming settlements create a peaceful and distinctive landscape.
Here, travelers may encounter multiple penguin species, albatrosses, and other seabirds, while dolphins are often seen accompanying the ship through surrounding waters. The Falkland Islands serve as a gentle introduction to polar exploration and offer the first profound realization that the journey is moving steadily toward the edge of the world.
South Georgia: The Spectacle of Emperor Penguins and Polar Life
Among all destinations on this voyage, South Georgia Island stands as one of the most awe-inspiring. Surrounded by towering mountains and massive glaciers, it is often described as a paradise for polar wildlife. Vast colonies of King Penguins, alongside seals and sea lions, create one of the most dramatic wildlife spectacles on Earth.
Standing amid this environment, travelers gain a deep appreciation for the resilience of life in extreme conditions. Whether witnessing glaciers cascading into the sea or watching endless penguin colonies in motion, South Georgia delivers an emotional impact that words can scarcely capture.
Antarctic Peninsula: Stepping Onto the White Continent
The highlight of the journey is the arrival at the Antarctic Peninsula, one of the most remote and pristine regions on the planet. Towering icebergs, endless snowfields, and profound silence combine to form a landscape that feels truly otherworldly.
When conditions allow, travelers embark on Zodiac cruises and landings, approaching glaciers, penguins, and untouched polar environments up close. This is an experience no photograph can fully convey—only by standing on Antarctic soil can one truly grasp the scale, purity, and power of the White Continent.
Oceanwide Expeditions: Experts in Polar Exploration
Renowned for its extensive polar experience, Oceanwide Expeditions specializes exclusively in expedition-style voyages to the Arctic and Antarctica. Each journey is led by highly experienced crew members, polar guides, and naturalists, ensuring the highest standards of safety, environmental responsibility, and immersive exploration.
This Falkland Islands, South Georgia, and Antarctic Peninsula expedition is not simply a voyage—it is a transformative experience. For travelers drawn to polar regions and the spirit of exploration, this journey offers a rare opportunity to connect with the planet’s most remote landscapes and create memories that will last a lifetime.
Tour Schedule
DAY 1
End of the world, start of a journey
Your voyage begins where the world drops off. Ushuaia, Argentina, reputed to be the southernmost city on the planet, is located on the far southern tip of South America. Starting in the afternoon, you embark from this small resort town on Tierra del Fuego, nicknamed “The End of the World,” and sail the mountain-fringed Beagle Channel for the remainder of the evening.
Meals
- Breakfast / -
- Lunch / -
- Dinner / ○
Accommodation
m/v Hondius
m/v Hondius
m/v Hondius, launched in 2019, is the world’s first registered Polar Class 6 passenger vessel, built specifically for expedition cruising in polar waters. Comfortable and well equipped, she combines a strong ice-class hull with modern facilities, including an observation lounge, lecture room and a fleet of Zodiacs for shore landings. Cabin categories range from Quadruple, Triple and Twin Porthole cabins to Twin Window, Twin Deluxe, Superior, Junior Suite and Grand Suites with a private balcony, all with private bathrooms.
Explore Fjords and Icebergs
Antarctica boasts not only spectacular glaciers and icebergs but also intricate fjords and peaceful snowy plains. Every iceberg in this vast icy world is a natural masterpiece, with layers of blue and white hues shifting with the sunlight, creating mesmerizing light and shadow effects. During the polar daylight, sunlight reflecting off the glaciers bathes the entire landscape in a serene and dreamlike glow. By taking a zodiac cruise through towering icebergs, you’ll have the rare opportunity to witness these natural wonders up close.
DAY 2
The winged life of the westerlies
As the voyage enters the Southern Ocean, the ship sails through the powerful Westerlies, one of the world’s richest seabird regions. This area offers frequent sightings of albatrosses, shearwaters, and storm petrels gliding effortlessly alongside the vessel. During this time, the onboard expedition team begins a series of polar lectures, introducing the destinations ahead and providing insight into Antarctic wildlife and ecosystems.
Meals
- Breakfast / ○
- Lunch / ○
- Dinner / ○
Accommodation
m/v Hondius
DAY 3
Finding the Falklands
The Falkland Islands offer an abundance of wildlife that is easily approachable, though caution is always advised. These islands are largely unknown gems, the site of a 1982 war between the UK and Argentina. Not only do various species of bird live here, but chances are great you’ll see both Peale’s dolphins and Commerson’s dolphins in the surrounding waters.
During this segment of the voyage, you may visit the following sites:
・Carcass Island – Despite its name, this island is pleasantly rodent-free and hence bounteous with birdlife and many endemic species. Anything from breeding Magellanic penguins and gentoos to numerous waders and passerine birds (including Cobb’s wrens and tussock-birds) live here.
・Saunders Island – On Saunders Island you can see the black-browed albatross and its sometimes-clumsy landings, along with breeding imperial shags and rockhopper penguins. King penguins, Magellanic penguins, and gentoos are also found here.
Meals
- Breakfast / ○
- Lunch / ○
- Dinner / ○
Accommodation
m/v Hondius
Falkland Islands/A Wildlife Gateway of the South Atlantic
・A vital ecological region in the South Atlantic, home to abundant seabirds and penguin colonies ・Opportunities to observe gentoo penguins, Magellanic penguins, and multiple species of albatrosses ・Dolphins are frequently seen escorting the ship, offering close encounters with marine wildlife ・Visit Port Stanley to experience distinctive British colonial heritage and the charm of a remote polar town
DAY 4
The seat of Falklands culture
The capital of the Falklands and center of its culture, Port Stanley has some Victorian-era charm: colorful houses, well-tended gardens, and English-style pubs are all to be found here. You can also see several century-old clipper ships nearby, silent witnesses to the hardships of 19th century sailors. The small but interesting museum is also worth a visit, covering the early days of settlement up to the Falklands War. Approximately 2,100 people live in Port Stanley. Admission to the museum is included.
Meals
- Breakfast / ○
- Lunch / ○
- Dinner / ○
Accommodation
m/v Hondius
Antarctic Peninsula/The Ultimate Journey to the White Continent
・Classic Antarctic landscapes featuring floating icebergs, massive glaciers, and endless snowfields ・Zodiac cruising through icy waters allows close-up encounters with ice formations and wildlife ・Opportunities to land on the Antarctic continent and set foot on one of the most remote places on Earth ・Observe iconic Antarctic species such as Adélie penguins and gentoo penguins ・Experience the profound silence, purity, and awe of Antarctica, creating memories that will last a lifetime
DAY 5
Once More to the Sea
Leaving the Falklands behind, the ship heads east across the open South Atlantic toward South Georgia. Along the way you cross the Antarctic Convergence, where cold polar waters meet warmer northern seas and the air temperature drops noticeably. These nutrient-rich waters attract huge numbers of seabirds, and you may see wandering albatrosses, petrels and prions following the ship. Join lectures by the expedition team to prepare for the wildlife and history of South Georgia.
Meals
- Breakfast / ○
- Lunch / ○
- Dinner / ○
Accommodation
m/v Hondius
DAY 6
Sailing Toward South Georgia
Departing the Falkland Islands, the expedition ship continues southward toward South Georgia. As the vessel crosses the Antarctic Convergence, sea temperatures drop noticeably and marine ecosystems change dramatically. This nutrient-rich zone attracts increasing numbers of seabirds, providing excellent wildlife viewing and serving as a natural prelude to the extraordinary sub-Antarctic environments ahead.
Meals
- Breakfast / ○
- Lunch / ○
- Dinner / ○
Accommodation
m/v Hondius
DAY 7
First Landing on South Georgia
Arrive at the spectacular island of South Georgia, where towering snow-covered mountains and massive glaciers dominate the landscape. Wildlife density here is among the highest in the polar regions. Conditions permitting, the expedition makes its first landing, offering an unforgettable introduction to a sub-Antarctic world shared by emperor penguins, seals, and seabirds.
Meals
- Breakfast / ○
- Lunch / ○
- Dinner / ○
Accommodation
m/v Hondius
South Georgia/The Polar Kingdom of King Penguins
・One of the world’s most spectacular emperor penguin habitats, with tens of thousands of penguins gathering in vast colonies ・Dramatic landscapes where expansive grasslands meet towering glaciers, creating breathtaking polar scenery ・Home to large populations of southern elephant seals and Antarctic fur seals, showcasing extraordinary polar biodiversity ・Explore iconic landing sites such as Salisbury Plain and Fortuna Bay ・Follow in the footsteps of legendary explorer Sir Ernest Shackleton, immersing yourself in the spirit of polar exploration
DAY 8
Exploring the Kingdom of King Penguins
Today’s exploration focuses on iconic sites such as Salisbury Plain, St. Andrews Bay, or Gold Harbour. These locations are home to some of the largest emperor penguin breeding colonies in the world, where tens of thousands of penguins gather across glacial valleys and grassy plains—creating one of the most breathtaking wildlife spectacles on Earth.
Meals
- Breakfast / ○
- Lunch / ○
- Dinner / ○
Accommodation
m/v Hondius
DAY 9
South Georgia: Where History Meets Nature
Visit Grytviken, the historic whaling station and cultural heart of South Georgia. Explore the museum and pay respects at the grave of legendary polar explorer Sir Ernest Shackleton. This day offers a meaningful blend of wildlife, polar history, and human exploration, deepening appreciation for the enduring spirit of Antarctic adventure.
Meals
- Breakfast / ○
- Lunch / ○
- Dinner / ○
Accommodation
m/v Hondius
DAY 10
Final Exploration of South Georgia
Make the most of the final day on South Georgia Island, with additional landings or Zodiac cruising depending on weather and sea conditions. Observe southern elephant seals, Antarctic fur seals, and dramatic glacier fronts calving into the ocean—bringing this extraordinary South Georgia experience to a memorable close.
Meals
- Breakfast / ○
- Lunch / ○
- Dinner / ○
Accommodation
m/v Hondius
Penguins: The Adorable Ambassadors of the Ice World
Antarctica is home to several penguin species, with the most common being Adélie, Gentoo, and King penguins. Waddling in groups across the icy plains, their charming movements captivate every visitor. Each summer, penguins gather at their breeding sites to build nests, and during hatching season, thousands of chicks emerge, creating a lively and heartwarming scene. Travelers can observe penguins interacting, caring for their young, and even witness their agile dives into the frigid waters to hunt for fish.
DAY 11
Southward bound
There may be sea ice on this route, and at the edge of the ice some south polar skuas and snow petrels could join the other seabirds trailing the vessel south.
Meals
- Breakfast / ○
- Lunch / ○
- Dinner / ○
Accommodation
m/v Hondius
Seals: The Elegant Predators of the Polar World
Antarctica hosts a variety of seal species, including Weddell seals, elephant seals, and crabeater seals. Weddell seals are known for their laid-back lifestyle, often seen lounging on drifting ice, completely unfazed by human presence. In contrast, elephant seals are famous for their enormous size and thunderous roars, while crabeater seals—despite their name—primarily feed on krill and are the most common seal species in Antarctica. These remarkable animals demonstrate incredible adaptability, capable of diving for long periods in freezing waters and hunting beneath the ice.
DAY 12
The scenic vistas of South Orkney
Depending on the conditions, you might visit Orcadas Base, an Argentine scientific station on Laurie Island in the South Orkney archipelago. The personnel here will happily show you their facility, where you can enjoy expansive views of the surrounding glaciers. If a visit isn’t possible, you may instead land in Coronation Island’s Shingle Cove.
Meals
- Breakfast / ○
- Lunch / ○
- Dinner / ○
Accommodation
m/v Hondius
DAY 13
Entering Antarctic Waters
Today, the expedition officially enters waters near the Antarctic Circle, where the presence of sea ice and towering icebergs becomes increasingly dramatic. The voyage itself is a visual spectacle, as travelers take in breathtaking polar scenery from the deck. Keep watch for whales surfacing in these nutrient-rich Antarctic waters, adding to the excitement of the journey deeper into the polar region.
Meals
- Breakfast / ○
- Lunch / ○
- Dinner / ○
Accommodation
m/v Hondius
Whales: The Giants of the Southern Ocean
Each summer, the waters surrounding Antarctica become a paradise for whales. Humpback whales, blue whales, and minke whales migrate here to feast on the abundant krill. Travelers may witness humpbacks breaching or observe the awe-inspiring sight of a blue whale surfacing for air. Watching these gentle giants gracefully swim across the icy seas offers a profound appreciation for the magnificence and harmony of Antarctica's ecosystem.
DAY 14
First Exploration of the Antarctic Peninsula
Weather and ice conditions permitting, the expedition begins its first landing or Zodiac cruise along the Antarctic Peninsula. Stepping onto the pristine white landscape offers a profound sense of scale and silence found nowhere else on Earth. This initial Antarctic experience provides an unforgettable introduction to the world’s southernmost continent, defined by its vastness, purity, and raw natural power.
Meals
- Breakfast / ○
- Lunch / ○
- Dinner / ○
Accommodation
m/v Hondius
DAY 15
Awe-Inspiring Antarctica: Entering the Weddell Sea
Weather and ice conditions permitting, the expedition sails into the legendary Weddell Sea, approaching the eastern side of the Antarctic Peninsula. Towering tabular icebergs dominate the horizon, signaling arrival in one of Antarctica’s most dramatic regions. A possible landing site is Paulet Island, home to a large colony of Adélie penguins, offering exceptional wildlife viewing amid pristine polar scenery.
Meals
- Breakfast / ○
- Lunch / ○
- Dinner / ○
Accommodation
m/v Hondius
DAY 16
Antarctic Sound & Continental Landings
The journey continues into the ice-filled Antarctic Sound, where conditions may allow a visit to Brown Bluff, a striking volcanic site surrounded by glaciers and sea ice. Here, travelers may have the rare opportunity to set foot on the Antarctic continent itself, an unforgettable milestone of any Antarctic expedition cruise.
If ice conditions prevent entry into the Weddell Sea from the east, the ship adjusts course toward Elephant Island and sails through the Bransfield Strait, between the South Shetland Islands and the Antarctic Peninsula, attempting access to the Antarctic Sound from the northwest. Flexibility ensures the best possible Antarctic experience.
Meals
- Breakfast / ○
- Lunch / ○
- Dinner / ○
Accommodation
m/v Hondius
DAY 17
Familiar Seas, Familiar Friends: Crossing the Drake Passage
The expedition begins its northbound journey across the Drake Passage. While this legendary stretch of ocean is known for its power, it is also rich in wildlife. As the ship sails onward, travelers are once again accompanied by an impressive variety of seabirds, including albatrosses and petrels—now familiar companions after days spent in the Southern Ocean.
Meals
- Breakfast / ○
- Lunch / ○
- Dinner / ○
Accommodation
m/v Hondius
DAY 18
Drake Passage Northbound
Continuing across the Drake Passage, guests enjoy time on deck reflecting on the extraordinary Antarctic experiences of the past days. The expedition team may host final lectures and discussions, allowing travelers to revisit highlights of the journey while watching seabirds glide effortlessly above the waves.
Meals
- Breakfast / ○
- Lunch / ○
- Dinner / ○
Accommodation
m/v Hondius
DAY 19
Return to Ushuaia – Journey’s End
Every great adventure must come to an end. Arrival in Ushuaia marks the conclusion of this unforgettable Antarctic expedition cruise. Guests disembark carrying memories of icebergs, wildlife, and landscapes that will remain vivid long after the journey ends—an experience to inspire future explorations at the edge of the world.
Meals
- Breakfast / ○
- Lunch / -
- Dinner / -
Gallery
Tour Price
Antarctic Three Islands Polar Expedition – 19 Days
Travel Cost per Person
| Season | Departure Date | Quadruple Porthole (shared, per person) | Twin Porthole (shared, per person) |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2028 | 18/Jan ~ 5/Feb | USD 18,200 | USD 22,500 |
*Prices are per berth in a shared cabin. Other cabin categories (Triple Porthole, Twin Window, Twin Deluxe, Superior, Junior Suite and Grand Suite with private balcony) and single-occupancy prices are available on request.
| Tour Code | HDS27-28 (Oceanwide Expeditions) |
|---|---|
| Departure Point | Departing from Puerto Comercial Ushuaia |
| Departure Date | Refer to the Price List |
| Accommodation | m/v Hondius |
| Tour Leader | Experienced professional guide |
| Minimum Number of Participants | 2 Persons |
Included in the Price
- Voyage aboard the indicated vessel as indicated in the itinerary
- All meals throughout the voyage aboard the ship including snacks, coffee and tea.
- All shore excursions and activities throughout the voyage by Zodiac.
- Program of lectures by noted naturalists and leadership by experienced expedition staff.
- Free use of rubber boots and snowshoes.
- Wi-Fi (1.5 GB of data per day).
- Dopper water bottle.
- Electronic Travel Authorisation for South Georgia & the South Sandwich Islands.
- Luggage transfer from pick-up point to the vessel on the day of embarkation, in Ushuaia.
- Pre-scheduled group transfer from the vessel to the airport in Ushuaia (directly after disembarkation).
- All miscellaneous service taxes and port charges throughout the programme.
- Comprehensive pre-departure material.
Not Included in the Price
- International airfare
- Travel insurance
- Passport application fees
- Visa application fees
- Customary gratuities for the ship’s crew (guidelines will be provided)
- Telephone charges, laundry fees, and any items not mentioned in the itinerary
- Any airfare, whether on scheduled or charter flights.
- Pre- and post- land arrangements.
- Government arrival and departure taxes.
- Meals ashore.
- Baggage, cancellation and personal insurance (which is strongly recommended).
- Excess baggage charges and all items of a personal nature such as laundry, bar, beverage charges and telecommunication charges.
- The customary gratuity at the end of the voyages for stewards and other service personnel aboard (guidelines will be provided).
Check before travelling
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Entry Requirements & Documents
Visa & Passport Validity: Check if a tourist visa is required and ensure your passport has at least 6 months of remaining validity.
Transit Regulations: Don't forget to check requirements for transit countries (e.g., ESTA for flights via the USA). -
Health & Vaccinations
Yellow Fever Certificate: Confirm if a "Yellow Card" (vaccination certificate) is mandatory for entry.
Medical Preparation: Consult your doctor regarding malaria prophylaxis and altitude sickness prevention.
Travel Insurance: Comprehensive insurance covering emergency evacuation is strongly recommended. -
Local Conditions & Gear
Climate & Clothing: Be prepared for extreme temperature changes. Layered clothing and sturdy trekking shoes are essential.
Currency & Cash: Carry small denominations of US Dollars, as credit cards may not be accepted in remote areas.
Hygiene & Safety: Pack insect repellent, sun protection, and basic sanitary items.
A trip that offers a life-changing experience. Consult with ONLYONE.
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Other tours in Antarctica
If the schedule or budget doesn't fit, please consider other tours as well.

