Emporer penguins on gray-sand beach with grassy tussocks behind, on South Georgia & Antarctic Peninsula: Penguin Safari expedition.
A pair of gentoo penguins are photographed by a polar traveler in a yellow jacket at dusk on the South Georgia & Antarctic Peninsula: Penguin Safari small ship expedition.
A group of people paddle stand-up boards on calm waters in the ocean in antarctica
Baby king penguin with brown fuzzy coat approaches camera on South Georgia & Antarctic Peninsula: Penguin Safari voyage.
Polar travelers in bright yellow jackets stand beside green grasses and photograph hundreds of king penguins on the beach of South Georgia Island on an Antarctica small ship cruise.
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Polar Regions Antarctica Cruise

South Georgia & Antarctic Peninsula: Penguin Safari

The 16- or 18-day South Georgia & Antarctic Peninsula: Penguin Safari itinerary is a fast way to get to the rarely visited South Georgia Island while also stepping foot on the 7th Continent. Highlights include experiencing the quintessential wildlife experience of the “Galapagos of the Poles,” visiting South Georgia’s king penguin rookeries–the largest in the world, reflecting at the resting place of Sir Ernest Shackleton, visiting abandoned whaling stations and learning stories of their inhabitants.

While cruising, photograph massive albatross and pintado petrel as they swoop and soar around the ship, guiding her toward South Georgia. Step ashore onto beaches teeming with king penguins and elephant seals on this fabled island, where there’s time to pay respects to famed explorer Sir Ernest Shackleton. Antarctica awaits, with its geographic contradictions and overwhelming enormity. Relax on a Zodiac ride, hike glistening glaciers, share comical moments with inquisitive penguins, or witness the rugged peninsula from a sea kayak. Antarctica will surprise and delight, and never disappoint.

In addition to the main 16-day itinerary via Ushuaia, Argentina, an alternative 16-day itinerary operates to and from Buenos Aires, Argentina, with a charter flight to and from Ushuaia to meet the ship.

Passage is aboard one of four small ships. The 172-guest World Explorer is a purpose-built, all-suite polar expedition ship featuring private balconies in every cabin and a focus on health and wellness throughout her six passenger decks. The 200-passenger Ultramarine offers the latest in polar ship technology and heli-assisted activities from her dual helicopter pads, making her an ideal basecamp for luxury Antarctica cruises. And the 128-guest Ocean Adventurer is an ice-stable ship equipped for personal and intimate Antarctic exploration. From your ship home base, enjoy opportunities for Zodiac cruising, hiking, photography, daily lectures by onboard polar experts and even the polar plunge. Added-cost activities include sea kayaking, one-time paddling excursions and stand-up paddleboarding. Aboard Ultramarine, enjoy additional activities utilizing the onboard helicopters.

Read on for details about this trip, or learn more about AdventureSmith’s Antarctica cruises and South Georgia cruises.



Itinerary

South Georgia & Antarctic Peninsula: Penguin Safari Itinerary

The main 16-day South Georgia & Antarctic Peninsula: Penguin Safari cruise operates round-trip from Ushuaia, Argentina, cruising to South Georgia and the South Shetland Islands before exploring the Antarctic Peninsula and returning via the Drake Passage. Highlights include South Georgia’s king penguins and Shackleton history, as well as Antarctic whaling stations.

Route map of Penguin Safari expedition, operating round-trip from Ushuaia, Argentina, with visits to South Georgia Island, the South Shetland Islands & the Antarctic Peninsula.
Read More
Day 1
Arrive Ushuaia, Argentina

Begin the journey in Ushuaia, a small but bustling port at the tip of South America. It’s the ideal gateway to explore the southern extent of Patagonia while preparing for the adventure ahead. Get active in the mountains or enjoy handcrafted chocolate at a café in town.

Accommodations

Hotel TBD (Hotel Las Lengas, Hotel Los Acebos, Albatros Hotel or similar)

Meals

n/a

Read More
Day 2
Embark Ushuaia

Embarkation will occur in the late afternoon, after which the vessel will cruise down the historic Beagle Channel, which transects the Tierra del Fuego archipelago in the extreme south of South America. Expect an air of anticipation while departing!

Accommodations

Ocean Adventurer, World Explorer

Meals

dinner

Read More
Days 3 - 6
At Sea

There are many activities while at sea. Learn to identify seabirds that glide alongside the ship, or attend dynamic presentations by the expedition team. Be prepped on safety procedures for Zodiac cruises and shore landings, and also be given instructions for getting the most out of optional sea kayaking adventures (extra cost), a truly intimate way to experience Antarctica.

If conditions are right, the first indication that the ship is approaching South Georgia is the sight of birds around a group of rocky spires called Shag Rocks. Have binoculars and cameras ready to capture these rocks rising out of the icy ocean waters. Shags and prions often rest here, and due to nutrient rich upwellings around the rocks, it can be a good place to keep a lookout for whales.

Accommodations

Ocean Adventurer, World Explorer

Meals

breakfast, lunch, dinner

Read More
Days 7 - 8
South Georgia

After enjoying South Georgia from a distance, the ship will head toward its numerable beaches to find a bay for the first land excursion. Landing sites are varied, largely determined by the weather conditions. Whichever sites are visited, they’ll provide wildlife encounters unrivaled anywhere else on earth.

South Georgia is one of the most fertile breeding grounds in the world for sub-Antarctic wildlife, with beaches blanketed with penguins. It won’t take long to realize that you are in a bird paradise, as burrowing seabirds, albatross and petrels can be seen in abundance. South Georgia, once a popular base for whalers and sealers, is also scattered with abandoned relics and evidence of human activity from centuries gone by.

The expedition team will help bring those days to life during presentations and visits to old whaling stations. Visit the significant site of Grytviken, one of the first whaling stations established in sub-Antarctic waters. Many travelers find that this place has a special appeal, as it is home to the remains of Sir Ernest Shackleton, one of the most famous Antarctic explorers.

Accommodations

Ocean Adventurer, World Explorer

Meals

breakfast, lunch, dinner

Read More
Days 9 - 10
At Sea

Say goodbye to the king penguins, as the next destination is Antarctica! These days at sea are filled with presentations and workshops led by the expedition team, who will prepare you for the wildlife and landscapes that will surround upon the ship’s arrival.

Accommodations

Ocean Adventurer, World Explorer

Meals

breakfast, lunch, dinner

Read More
Days 11 - 13
Antarctic Peninsula

The most common reaction upon reaching the White Continent is a sense of reverence and awe. The experience is hard to put into words, since few places are as untouched and enduring as Antarctica. Antarctica is a land of extremes. At one moment, be overcome with a feeling of complete isolation and silence, and at the next moment be inspired by nature as a calving glacier crashes into a brilliant blue sea or a penguin waddles by to inspect your footwear.

The expedition team leads Zodiac cruises, visits to a historical site or consorting with penguin colonies. Chinstrap, adélie and gentoo penguins are found here, along with weddell, fur, crabeater and leopard seals. Keep a lookout for Antarctic whales, such as minkes, while on a Zodiac cruise, and keep cameras at the ready.

Accommodations

Ocean Adventurer, World Explorer

Meals

breakfast, lunch, dinner

Read More
Days 14 - 15
Drake Passage

After more than a dozen days of unique wildlife encounters and remarkable landscapes, the journey home begins. Crossing the Drake is an unofficial rite of passage. Spend time on deck watching for seabirds and whales, enjoy presentations by the expedition team, or simply relax and reminisce about your experiences.

Accommodations

Ocean Adventurer, World Explorer

Meals

breakfast, lunch, dinner

Read More
Day 16
Disembark Ushuaia, Argentina

Arrive in Ushuaia in the morning, disembark the ship and continue the adventure onward or catch flights home.

Accommodations

n/a

Meals

breakfast

Read More
Details
Inclusions, Terms & Notes

Included

Leadership throughout the voyage by experienced expedition leader, including shore landings and other activities; all Zodiac transfers and cruising per daily program; shipboard accommodation with daily housekeeping; all meals, snacks, soft drinks and juices on board throughout voyage; beer and wine during dinner; coffee, tea and cocoa available around the clock; all shore landings per daily program; formal and informal presentations by expedition team and guest speakers as scheduled; photographic journal documenting the expedition; a pair of waterproof expedition boots on loan for shore landings and Zodiac excursions; official Quark Expeditions parka to keep; hair dryer and bathrobes in every cabin; all miscellaneous service taxes and port charges throughout the program; all luggage handling aboard ship; emergency evacuation insurance for all passengers to a maximum benefit of USD $500,000 per person; group 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 transfer upon disembarkation in Ushuaia from ship to local airport or luggage storage facility.

Exclusions

International airfare; passport and applicable visa expenses; government arrival and departure taxes not mentioned; meals ashore unless otherwise specified; baggage, cancellation, interruption and medical travel insurance (strongly recommended); excess baggage fees on international flights; mandatory waterproof pants for Zodiac cruising, or any other gear not mentioned; laundry, bar, massage services and other personal charges, unless specified; phone and internet charges; voluntary gratuity at the end of the voyage for shipboard staff and crew; additional overnight accommodation; arrival and departure transfers, except when explicitly stated; adventure options on expeditions (all weather dependent) that are not included in the cost of the voyage (e.g., sea kayaking, stand-up paddleboarding, etc.).

Payment & Cancellation

In order to confirm this trip, a deposit of 25% of the total trip cost is required per person at time of booking. The balance of the trip price is due 120 days before the departure date. Special holiday payment and cancellation terms apply. Guests who must cancel their trip for any reason must do so in writing. Standard cancellations are subject to the following per-person penalties, based on number of days prior to departure:
Up to 180 days – $1,250 fee
179 to 120 days – 100% of deposit
119 to 90 days – 50% of total trip cost
89 to 60 days – 75% of total trip cost
59 to 0 days – 100% of total trip cost

Terms & Conditions

This trip is subject to AdventureSmith Explorations Terms and Conditions. Please read this information carefully and call us if you have any questions. A Traveler Information Form, which includes a release of liability, must be completed and signed by all travelers. Your Adventure Specialist will send you a unique link to complete this form along with a packing list and extensive pre-departure and travel insurance information upon booking confirmation.

Arrival & Departure

The main South Georgia & Antarctic Peninsula: Penguin Safari voyage begins and ends in Ushuaia, Argentina (USH). We highly recommend arriving one day prior to your trip start date in case of any flight delay, cancellation or lost luggage issues. Plan flights to arrive to Ushuaia at any time on Day 1. If arriving on Day 1, a group arrival transfer from the Ushuaia airport to the group hotel is included. Plan flights to depart Ushuaia no earlier than 11:00am on disembarkation day. If you would like assistance with international flights, please visit our Booking Flights resource page.

Activities

Various optional activities may be available on your South Georgia & Antarctic Peninsula: Penguin Safari voyage. Per-person prices for the 2023-24 season: kayaking $995; photography included; stand-up paddleboarding $295. One-time paddling excursions are available for $295 per person, per outing, for those who want something less in-depth than the full sea kayaking program; no experience is necessary. Each departure’s first paddling excursion may be pre-booked and all subsequent outings are booked on the ship. Please contact AdventureSmith to reserve activity space with your booking.

Room Configuration

Select double-occupancy cabins may be available for single occupancy with a single supplement fee. Solo travelers willing to share can reserve a triple or twin-shared cabin, where you will be matched with a person of the same gender. If the other cabin berth goes unsold, you will be guaranteed the double rate. Single travelers wishing to book a double-occupancy cabin may do so at 1.7x (2x for Premium cabins) the per-person listed rate in select cabins based upon availability. Premium Cabins are as follows:
Ocean Adventurer: Superior, Deluxe, Suite & Owner’s Suite
World Explorer: Superior Suite, Deluxe Suite & Owner’s Suite.

Families & Children

At date of embarkation, a minimum age restriction of 8 years and minimum height and weight requirements (weight of 64lbs or 29kg and 48 in. or 1.2 m. tall) must be met. Children under 16 years of age must be supervised by a parent/guardian at all times and may not participate in adventure options.

Travel Insurance

Emergency evacuation insurance to a maximum benefit of up to $500,000 USD per paying traveler provides coverage between the first and last day of ship-based travel and is included in the cost of this trip. For ship- and land-based trips, additional days of travel pre- and post-expedition are not covered. Travelers are responsible for having adequate international medical coverage prior to embarkation, with a minimum benefit of $50,000 USD. In addition, we highly recommend our travelers also protect their investment with travel insurance that includes trip cancellation and other benefits. Our partners at Travelex Insurance offer a variety of plans and policies to fit every trip and budget. Coverage for a pre-existing medical condition is also available if you purchase the Travel Select plan within 15 days of the initial trip payment; refer to plan details. Learn more about travel insurance or get a free quote.

Itinerary Notes

Read this itinerary as a guide only; the exact route and program varies according to ice, weather conditionswildlife encountered and the captain’s discretion. Flexibility is the key to the success of any Antarctica expedition. Visits to research stations depend on final permission.

South Georgia & Antarctic Peninsula: Penguin Safari Itinerary

The main 18-day South Georgia & Antarctic Peninsula: Penguin Safari cruise operates round-trip from Ushuaia, Argentina, uniquely adding a day at South Georgia and exploring the Antarctic Peninsula.

Route map of Penguin Safari expedition, operating round-trip from Ushuaia, Argentina, with visits to South Georgia Island, the South Shetland Islands & the Antarctic Peninsula.
Read More
Day 1
Arrive Ushuaia, Argentina

Begin the journey in Ushuaia, a small but bustling port at the tip of South America. It’s the ideal gateway to explore the southern extent of Patagonia while preparing for the adventure ahead. Get active in the mountains or enjoy handcrafted chocolate at a café in town.

Accommodations

Hotel TBD (Hotel Las Lengas, Hotel Los Acebos, Albatros Hotel or similar)

Meals

n/a

Read More
Day 2
Embark Ushuaia

Embarkation will occur in the late afternoon, after which the vessel will cruise down the historic Beagle Channel, which transects the Tierra del Fuego archipelago in the extreme south of South America. Expect an air of anticipation while departing!

Accommodations

Ocean Adventurer, World Explorer

Meals

dinner

Read More
Days 3 - 6
At Sea

There are many activities while at sea. Learn to identify seabirds that glide alongside the ship, or attend dynamic presentations by the expedition team. Be prepped on safety procedures for Zodiac cruises and shore landings, and also be given instructions for getting the most out of optional sea kayaking adventures (extra cost), a truly intimate way to experience Antarctica.

If conditions are right, the first indication that the ship is approaching South Georgia is the sight of birds around a group of rocky spires called Shag Rocks. Have binoculars and cameras ready to capture these rocks rising out of the icy ocean waters. Shags and prions often rest here, and due to nutrient rich upwellings around the rocks, it can be a good place to keep a lookout for whales.

Accommodations

Ocean Adventurer, World Explorer

Meals

breakfast, lunch, dinner

Read More
Days 7 - 9
South Georgia

After enjoying South Georgia from a distance, the ship will head toward its numerable beaches to find a bay for the first land excursion. Landing sites are varied, largely determined by the weather conditions. Whichever sites are visited, they’ll provide wildlife encounters unrivaled anywhere else on earth.

South Georgia is one of the most fertile breeding grounds in the world for sub-Antarctic wildlife, with beaches blanketed with penguins. It won’t take long to realize that you are in a bird paradise, as burrowing seabirds, albatross and petrels can be seen in abundance. South Georgia, once a popular base for whalers and sealers, is also scattered with abandoned relics and evidence of human activity from centuries gone by.

The expedition team will help bring those days to life during presentations and visits to old whaling stations. Visit the significant site of Grytviken, one of the first whaling stations established in sub-Antarctic waters. Many travelers find that this place has a special appeal, as it is home to the remains of Sir Ernest Shackleton, one of the most famous Antarctic explorers.

Accommodations

Ocean Adventurer, World Explorer

Meals

breakfast, lunch, dinner

Read More
Days 10 - 11
At Sea

Say goodbye to the king penguins, as the next destination is Antarctica! These days at sea are filled with presentations and workshops led by the expedition team, who will prepare you for the wildlife and landscapes that will surround upon the ship’s arrival.

Accommodations

Ocean Adventurer, World Explorer

Meals

breakfast, lunch, dinner

Read More
Days 12 - 15
Antarctic Peninsula

The most common reaction upon reaching the White Continent is a sense of reverence and awe. The experience is hard to put into words, since few places are as untouched and enduring as Antarctica. Antarctica is a land of extremes. At one moment, be overcome with a feeling of complete isolation and silence, and at the next moment be inspired by nature as a calving glacier crashes into a brilliant blue sea or a penguin waddles by to inspect your footwear.

The expedition team leads Zodiac cruises, visits to a historical site or consorting with penguin colonies. Chinstrap, adélie and gentoo penguins are found here, along with weddell, fur, crabeater and leopard seals. Keep a lookout for Antarctic whales, such as minkes, while on a Zodiac cruise, and keep cameras at the ready.

Accommodations

Ocean Adventurer, World Explorer

Meals

breakfast, lunch, dinner

Read More
Days 16 - 17
Drake Passage

After more than a dozen days of unique wildlife encounters and remarkable landscapes, the journey home begins. Crossing the Drake is an unofficial rite of passage. Spend time on deck watching for seabirds and whales, enjoy presentations by the expedition team, or simply relax and reminisce about your experiences.

Accommodations

Ocean Adventurer, World Explorer

Meals

breakfast, lunch, dinner

Read More
Day 18
Disembark Ushuaia, Argentina

Arrive in Ushuaia in the morning, disembark the ship and continue the adventure onward or catch flights home.

Accommodations

n/a

Meals

breakfast

Read More
Details
Inclusions, Terms & Notes

Included

Leadership throughout the voyage by experienced expedition leader, including shore landings and other activities; all Zodiac transfers and cruising per daily program; shipboard accommodation with daily housekeeping; all meals, snacks, soft drinks and juices on board throughout voyage; beer and wine during dinner; coffee, tea and cocoa available around the clock; all shore landings per daily program; formal and informal presentations by expedition team and guest speakers as scheduled; photographic journal documenting the expedition; a pair of waterproof expedition boots on loan for shore landings and Zodiac excursions; official Quark Expeditions parka to keep; hair dryer and bathrobes in every cabin; all miscellaneous service taxes and port charges throughout the program; all luggage handling aboard ship; emergency evacuation insurance for all passengers to a maximum benefit of USD $500,000 per person; group 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 transfer upon disembarkation in Ushuaia from ship to local airport or luggage storage facility.

Exclusions

International airfare; passport and applicable visa expenses; government arrival and departure taxes not mentioned; meals ashore unless otherwise specified; baggage, cancellation, interruption and medical travel insurance (strongly recommended); excess baggage fees on international flights; mandatory waterproof pants for Zodiac cruising, or any other gear not mentioned; laundry, bar, massage services and other personal charges, unless specified; phone and internet charges; voluntary gratuity at the end of the voyage for shipboard staff and crew; additional overnight accommodation; arrival and departure transfers, except when explicitly stated; adventure options on expeditions (all weather dependent) that are not included in the cost of the voyage (e.g., sea kayaking, stand-up paddleboarding, etc.).

Payment & Cancellation

In order to confirm this trip, a deposit of 25% of the total trip cost is required per person at time of booking. The balance of the trip price is due 120 days before the departure date. Special holiday payment and cancellation terms apply. Guests who must cancel their trip for any reason must do so in writing. Standard cancellations are subject to the following per-person penalties, based on number of days prior to departure:
Up to 180 days – $1,250 fee
179 to 120 days – 100% of deposit
119 to 90 days – 50% of total trip cost
89 to 60 days – 75% of total trip cost
59 to 0 days – 100% of total trip cost

Terms & Conditions

This trip is subject to AdventureSmith Explorations Terms and Conditions. Please read this information carefully and call us if you have any questions. A Traveler Information Form, which includes a release of liability, must be completed and signed by all travelers. Your Adventure Specialist will send you a unique link to complete this form along with a packing list and extensive pre-departure and travel insurance information upon booking confirmation.

Arrival & Departure

The main South Georgia & Antarctic Peninsula: Penguin Safari voyage begins and ends in Ushuaia, Argentina (USH). We highly recommend arriving one day prior to your trip start date in case of any flight delay, cancellation or lost luggage issues. Plan flights to arrive to Ushuaia at any time on Day 1. If arriving on Day 1, a group arrival transfer from the Ushuaia airport to the group hotel is included. Plan flights to depart Ushuaia no earlier than 11:00am on disembarkation day. If you would like assistance with international flights, please visit our Booking Flights resource page.

Activities

Various optional activities may be available on your South Georgia & Antarctic Peninsula: Penguin Safari voyage. Per-person prices for the 2024-25 season: kayaking $995; photography included; stand-up paddleboarding $295. One-time paddling excursions are available for $295 per person, per outing, for those who want something less in-depth than the full sea kayaking program; no experience is necessary. Each departure’s first paddling excursion may be pre-booked and all subsequent outings are booked on the ship. Please contact AdventureSmith to reserve activity space with your booking.

Room Configuration

Select double-occupancy cabins may be available for single occupancy with a single supplement fee. Solo travelers willing to share can reserve a triple or twin-shared cabin, where you will be matched with a person of the same gender. If the other cabin berth goes unsold, you will be guaranteed the double rate. Single travelers wishing to book a double-occupancy cabin may do so at 1.7x (2x for Premium cabins) the per-person listed rate in select cabins based upon availability. Premium Cabins are as follows:
Ocean Adventurer: Superior, Deluxe, Suite & Owner’s Suite
World Explorer: Superior Suite, Deluxe Suite & Owner’s Suite.

Families & Children

At date of embarkation, a minimum age restriction of 8 years and minimum height and weight requirements (weight of 64lbs or 29kg and 48 in. or 1.2 m. tall) must be met. Children under 16 years of age must be supervised by a parent/guardian at all times and may not participate in adventure options.

Travel Insurance

Emergency evacuation insurance to a maximum benefit of up to $500,000 USD per paying traveler provides coverage between the first and last day of ship-based travel and is included in the cost of this trip. For ship- and land-based trips, additional days of travel pre- and post-expedition are not covered. Travelers are responsible for having adequate international medical coverage prior to embarkation, with a minimum benefit of $50,000 USD. In addition, we highly recommend our travelers also protect their investment with travel insurance that includes trip cancellation and other benefits. Our partners at Travelex Insurance offer a variety of plans and policies to fit every trip and budget. Coverage for a pre-existing medical condition is also available if you purchase the Travel Select plan within 15 days of the initial trip payment; refer to plan details. Learn more about travel insurance or get a free quote.

Itinerary Notes

Read this itinerary as a guide only; the exact route and program varies according to ice, weather conditionswildlife encountered and the captain’s discretion. Flexibility is the key to the success of any Antarctica expedition. Visits to research stations depend on final permission.

South Georgia & Antarctic Peninsula: Penguin Safari via Buenos Aires Itinerary

The 16-day South Georgia & Antarctic Peninsula: Penguin Safari via Buenos Aires cruise begins and ends in Buenos Aires, Argentina, with charter flights to and from Ushuaia. Cruise to South Georgia and the South Shetland Islands before exploring the Antarctic Peninsula and returning via the Drake Passage. Highlights include South Georgia’s king penguins and Shackleton history, as well as Antarctic whaling stations.

Route map of Penguin Safari expedition, operating round-trip from Buenos Aires, Argentina, with visits to South Georgia Island, the South Shetland Islands & the Antarctic Peninsula.
Read More
Day 1
Arrive Buenos Aires, Argentina

Arrive in Buenos Aires at any time during Day 1. Upon arriving in this splendid city, known for its architecture and rich European heritage, independently transfer to the group hotel (pre-expedition hotel night included in mandatory transfer package).

Accommodations

Hotel TBA

Meals

n/a

Read More
Day 2
Fly to Ushuaia & Embark

After an early breakfast at the hotel, transfer with the group to the airport and board a private charter flight to Ushuaia, Argentina. Upon arrival, be transferred from the airport to a central downtown location to have some time on your own to explore this quaint port town before making your way to the pier.

After a late afternoon embarkation, sail along the historic Beagle Channel, which transects the Tierra del Fuego archipelago in the extreme south of South America. Expect an air of anticipation as the ship departs!

Accommodations

Ultramarine

Meals

breakfast, dinner

Read More
Days 3 - 6
At Sea

There are many activities available to stay engaged while at sea. Learn to identify seabirds that glide alongside the ship, or attend dynamic presentations by the expedition team. Be prepped on safety procedures for Zodiac cruises and shore landings.

If conditions are right, the first indication that the ship is approaching South Georgia is the sight of birds around a group of rocky spires called Shag Rocks. Have binoculars and cameras ready to capture these rocky spires rising out of the icy ocean waters. Shags and prions often rest here, and due to nutrient rich upwellings around the rocks it can be a good place to keep a lookout for whales.

Accommodations

Ultramarine

Meals

breakfast, lunch, dinner

Read More
Days 7 - 8
South Georgia

After enjoying South Georgia from a distance, the ship will head toward its numerous beaches to find a bay for the first excursion. Landing sites are varied, largely determined by the weather conditions of the voyage. Whichever sites the ship visits, they’ll provide wildlife encounters unrivaled anywhere else on earth.

South Georgia is one of the most fertile breeding grounds in the world for sub-Antarctic wildlife, with beaches blanketed with penguins and seals. It won’t take long to realize this bird paradise, as burrowing seabirds, albatross and petrels can be seen in abundance. South Georgia, once a popular base for whalers and sealers, is also scattered with abandoned relics and evidence of human activity from centuries gone by.

The expedition team will help bring those days to life while visiting old whaling stations and offering presentations on the South Georgia of then and now. One of the most significant sites to visit on the island is Grytviken. This settlement is the first whaling stations established in sub-Antarctic waters. Many travelers find that this place has a special appeal, as it is the site of the grave of Sir Ernest Shackleton, one of the most famous Antarctic explorers.

Accommodations

Ultramarine

Meals

breakfast, lunch, dinner

Read More
Days 9 - 10
At Sea

Say goodbye to the king penguins, as the ship’s next destination is Antarctica! These days at sea are filled with presentations and workshops led by the expedition team, who will prepare you for the wildlife and landscapes that will surround upon arrival.

Accommodations

Ultramarine

Meals

breakfast, lunch, dinner

Read More
Days 11 - 13
Antarctic Peninsula

The most common reaction upon reaching the White Continent is a sense of reverence and awe. The experience is hard to put into words, since few places are as untouched and enduring as Antarctica. Antarctica is a land of extremes. At one moment, be overcome with a feeling of complete isolation and silence, and at the next moment be inspired by nature as a calving glacier crashes into a brilliant blue sea or a penguin waddles by.

The expedition team will assist at each excursion, whether 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. Keep a lookout for Antarctic whales, such as minkes, while on a Zodiac cruise. Each day and each excursion will present a new collection of creatures to delight and keep the camera busy.

Accommodations

Ultramarine

Meals

breakfast, lunch, dinner

Read More
Days 14 - 15
Drake Passage

After more than a dozen days of unique wildlife encounters and remarkable landscapes, the journey home begins. Crossing the Drake is an unofficial rite of passage. Spend time on deck watching for seabirds and whales, enjoy presentations by the expedition team, or simply relax and reminisce about the voyage’s experiences.

Accommodations

Ultramarine

Meals

breakfast, lunch, dinner

Read More
Day 16
Disembark Ushuaia, Fly to Buenos Aires & Depart

Arrive in Ushuaia in the morning and disembark after breakfast. The mandatory transfer package includes a taste of Patagonia with a Tierra del Fuego National Park tour before transferring to the airport for the return group charter flight to Buenos Aires.

Accommodations

n/a

Meals

breakfast

Read More
Details
Inclusions, Terms & Notes

Included

Shipboard accommodation with daily housekeeping; all meals, snacks, soft drinks and juices on board; beer and wine during dinner; all shore landings per the daily program; leadership throughout the voyage by experienced expedition leaders; all Zodiac transfers and cruising per the daily program; formal and informal presentations by expedition team and special guests as scheduled; a photographic journal documenting the expedition; waterproof expedition boots on loan for shore landings; an official Quark Expeditions® parka to keep; coffee, tea and cocoa available around the clock; a hair dryer and bathrobes in every cabin; all miscellaneous service taxes and port charges throughout the program; all luggage handling aboard the ship; emergency evacuation insurance to a maximum benefit of US$500,000 per person; one 10- to 15-minute helicopter flightseeing excursion (weather and logistics permitting).

Exclusions

Mandatory Transfer Package (approximate package price is $995 for the 2023-24 season and includes one night’s pre-expedition hotel night in Buenos Aires with breakfast on Day 2, group transfer from hotel to airport in Buenos Aires, charter flight from Buenos Aires to Ushuaia, arrival and departure transfers in Ushuaia, charter flight from Ushuaia to Buenos Aires, and combined airport transfer and express bus tour of Tierra del Fuego National Park [before embarkation or after disembarkation] in Ushuaia); international airfare; passport and visa expenses; government arrival and departure taxes not mentioned above; meals ashore unless otherwise specified; baggage, cancellation, interruption and medical travel insurance (strongly recommended); excess-baggage fees on international flights; mandatory waterproof pants for Zodiac cruising, and any other gear not mentioned above; laundry, bar, massage services and other personal charges unless specified; phone and internet charges; additional overnight accommodation; optional adventure activities; voluntary gratuity at the end of the voyage for shipboard staff and crew; arrival and departure transfers, except where explicitly stated.

Payment & Cancellation

In order to confirm this trip, a deposit of 25% of the total trip cost is required per person at time of booking. The balance of the trip price is due 120 days before the departure date. Special holiday payment and cancellation terms apply. Guests who must cancel their trip for any reason must do so in writing. Standard cancellations are subject to the following per-person penalties, based on number of days prior to departure:
Up to 180 days – $1,250 fee
179 to 120 days – 100% of deposit
119 to 90 days – 50% of total trip cost
89 to 60 days – 75% of total trip cost
59 to 0 days – 100% of total trip cost

Terms & Conditions

This trip is subject to AdventureSmith Explorations Terms and Conditions. Please read this information carefully and call us if you have any questions. A Traveler Information Form, which includes a release of liability, must be completed and signed by all travelers. Your Adventure Specialist will send you a unique link to complete this form along with a packing list and extensive pre-departure and travel insurance information upon booking confirmation.

Arrival & Departure

The South Georgia & Antarctic Peninsula: Penguin Safari via Buenos Aires voyage begins and ends in Buenos Aires, Argentina (EZE), with charter group flights to and from Ushuaia. We highly recommend arriving one day prior to your trip start date in case of any flight delay, cancellation or lost luggage issues. Plan flights to arrive to Buenos Aires ahead of the 12:00-8:00pm window for luggage weighing and tagging on Day 1. Arrange your own independent transfer to the included Buenos Aires hotel on Day 1. Plan flights to depart Buenos Aires no earlier than 9:00pm on disembarkation day. If you would like assistance with international flights, please visit our Booking Flights resource page.

Internal Flights

Group charter flights between Buenos Aires and Ushuaia are required on this trip’s itinerary; see the Mandatory Transfer Package information listed above under Exclusions. The flight to Ushuaia is expected to depart early on Day 2 of the itinerary. There is a luggage limit of 50 lbs (23 kg) checked luggage and 17 lbs (8 kg) cabin baggage on the flights to and from Ushuaia. Should you have additional luggage, it can be stored at the hotel in Buenos Aires; there is no option to pay for additional luggage. On Day 14 of the itinerary, the ship is scheduled to arrive at the pier between 7:00 and 8:00am local time. Disembarkation follows breakfast, with an included short tour of Tierra del Fuego National Park before transferring to the airport for the return charter flight to Buenos Aires (note: This tour may happen prior to embarkation).

Activities

Various optional activities may be available on your South Georgia & Antarctic Peninsula: Penguin Safari via Buenos Aires voyage. Included are optional hiking, Zodiac cruising, daily presentations, photography guides, the polar plunge and a 10- to 15-minute helicopter flightseeing excursion (weather- and logistics-dependent). Per-person prices for the 2023-24 season: kayaking $995; photography included; stand-up paddleboarding $295. One-time paddling excursions are available for $295 per person, per outing, for those who want something less in-depth than the full sea kayaking program; no experience is necessary. Each departure’s first paddling excursion may be pre-booked and all subsequent outings are booked on the ship. Please contact AdventureSmith to reserve activity space with your booking.

Room Configuration

Select double-occupancy cabins may be available for single occupancy with a single supplement fee. Solo travelers willing to share can reserve a triple or twin-shared cabin, where you will be matched with a person of the same gender. If the other cabin berth goes unsold, you will be guaranteed the double rate. Single travelers wishing to book a double-occupancy cabin may do so at 1.7x (2x for Premium cabins) the per-person listed rate in select cabins based upon availability. Premium Cabins are as follows:
Ultramarine: Deluxe Balcony Suite, Terrace Suite, Penthouse Suite, Owner’s Suite & Ultra Suite

Families & Children

At date of embarkation, a minimum age restriction of 8 years and minimum height and weight requirements (weight of 64lbs or 29kg and 48 in. or 1.2 m. tall) must be met. Children under 16 years of age must be supervised by a parent/guardian at all times and may not participate in adventure options.

Travel Insurance

Emergency evacuation insurance to a maximum benefit of up to $500,000 USD per paying traveler provides coverage between the first and last day of ship-based travel and is included in the cost of this trip. For ship- and land-based trips, additional days of travel pre- and post-expedition are not covered. Travelers are responsible for having adequate international medical coverage prior to embarkation, with a minimum benefit of $50,000 USD. In addition, we highly recommend our travelers also protect their investment with travel insurance that includes trip cancellation and other benefits. Our partners at Travelex Insurance offer a variety of plans and policies to fit every trip and budget. Coverage for a pre-existing medical condition is also available if you purchase the Travel Select plan within 15 days of the initial trip payment; refer to plan details. Learn more about travel insurance or get a free quote.

Itinerary Notes

Read this itinerary as a guide only; the exact route and program varies according to ice, weather conditionswildlife encountered and the captain’s discretion. Flexibility is the key to the success of any Antarctica expedition. Visits to research stations depend on final permission.

Rates & Dates

Cruise Rates & Dates

Oct 29 - Nov 13, 2023
Ultramarine • 16 days
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From $21495USD
Per Person
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Dec 28 - Jan 12, 2024
World Explorer • 16 days
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From $23995USD
Per Person
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Feb 05 - Feb 20, 2024
Ocean Adventurer • 16 days
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From $18495USD
Per Person
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Jan 06 - Jan 23, 2025
World Explorer • 18 days
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From $25495USD
Per Person
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Feb 16 - Mar 05, 2025
Ocean Adventurer • 18 days
From $20995USD
Per Person
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brown tent icon depicting camping activity Camping
brown kayaking icon depicting offered kayaking activity Kayaking
A brown kayak paddle icon depicting a one-time paddle activity option One-Time Paddling
brown stand up paddleboarder icon Stand-Up Paddleboarding
Accommodations

Learn About the Small Ships on Your Itinerary

Expedition Ship
Ocean Adventurer

A handsome and refurbished expedition ship, the Ocean Adventurer combines travel to the polar regions with superior onboard comfort for her 128 passengers.

Expedition Ship
Ultramarine

The new Ultramarine 200-passenger polar ship is purpose-built for safety and far-off exploration in Antarctica and the Arctic. Dual helicopter pads and an incredible 70-day cruising range allow access to the hardest-to-reach places.

Expedition Ship
World Explorer

The 2019-built, 172-guest World Explorer is designed with distinction, comfort and refinement in mind. This 1B ice-class vessel boasts private walk-outs or Juliet balconies for each cabin and a glass-domed lounge for unimpeded ocean viewing.

Deal

Current Deals on This Trip

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Offer expires July 4th, 2023
Save Up To 40% On Select 2023-2025 Antarctica Expeditions

Book your select 2023-2025 Antarctica expedition and receive 25-40% off, based on departure and cabin selection.

Expert Review

Reviews From Our Experts So You Know What To Expect

Andrew Browning • December 1st, 2020
Expert Review: The South Georgia Expedition Experience

An AdventureSmith expert returns to Antarctica—this time stopping at the wildlife Mecca of South Georgia Island. Learn all about the Island's wildlife, landscape, trip highlights to differences and see if South Georgia should be part of your Antarctica expedition.

Testimonial

Hear It From Others Who Have Explored With Us

"Worth The Two Year Wait!"

This was a trip that was re-arranged several times due to COVID. We really enjoyed the trip and it was worth the two year wait! The quality of service and accommodations on the Ultramarine were first class. Antarctica is so spectacular you won't believe it!

Overall
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Accommodations
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Meals
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Book with the confidence that comes from experience.

100+ combined years of experience, 7 continents explored, decades of expedition cruising around the world & here to help you find & book your dream trip.

Extend Your Trip

Additional Travel Options Before or After Your Antarctica Cruise

Add to Wishlist
5 - 7 Day Land Tour
Patagonia Wildlife Safari

Discover the magic at the end of the world on a 4- to 7-day Patagonia Wildlife Safari! No matter the length of your stay, you will be blown away by the unlimited beauty of the world heritage site Torres del Paine National Park.

From $1180USD
Jan Feb Mar Apr May Sep Oct Nov Dec
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7 Day Land Tour
Torres Del Paine Trek

The trails amongst the famous Torres del Paine craggy mountains are among the world's classic trekking routes. By day, explore nature in its raw form while winding through these exceptional mountains. By night, enjoy the cozy luxury of EcoCamp's unique dome accommodations, or camping.

From $1410USD
Jan Feb Mar Apr Oct Nov Dec
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5 - 7 Day Land Tour
Explora Torres del Paine

This 5-, 6- or 7-day lodge-based trip in the center of Torres del Paine National Park offers over 40 unique explorations to choose from, including Base Torres and Grey Glacier. Enjoy breathtaking views of the Paine Massif and Salto Chico waterfall from home base.

Special Offer
From $2584USD
Year Round
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South Georgia & Antarctic Peninsula: Penguin Safari

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