The highest, driest, coldest and most remote continent could be within your reach. And, in route to it you might see the most otherworldly landscape you can imagine. The classic route for nature enthusiasts visiting Antarctica, not only involves seeing the continent and its scenic peninsular region, but also includes a visit to the unique Falkland Islands, the spectacular wilderness that is South Georgia, and the rich waters surrounding each of these. Sealife abounds with the iconic penguins, thrilling seabirds, bellicose seals, majestic whales and playful dolphins and so much more.
Early season trips enjoy good rates.
Penguins galore, otherworldly scenery, fabulous whale-watching, + endemic birds.
High season for rare seabirds such as Atlantic Petrel, Kerguelen Petrel, Antarctic Petrel & others.
Best time of year on this route for a chance at Emperor Penguin.
Depart from Argentina's astounding Valdez Peninsula, and return to scenic Ushuaia.
Enjoy pre/post cruise birding options.
At this season, in addition to all the seabirds, regional endemics, and remarkable scenery, there are many seals and whales too. Departing from Puerto Madryn in Patagonian Argentina, we venture for the Falkland Islands, followed by South Georgia, and eventually make our way to the Antarctic peninsula, before crossing the fabled Drake Passage en route back to the scenic, southernmost city in the World, Ushuaia.
LISTEN IN: Life List Birding Podcast Episodes on birding this route here:
Enjoy a video of some of the birds, wildlife, & scenery on our route.
The Sites, Birding & Wildlife
Puerto Madryn & The Valdez Peninsula
The Valdez Peninsula sticks out eastward from the province of Chubut, sort of like an oblong hammer. Part of what gives this landmass of Patagonia its unusual shape is Golfo Nuevo. Famous as a calving area for Southern Right Whales and for its proximity to the Valdez Peninsula, the town of Puerto Madryn rests along the coast of Golfo Nuevo and has become a good jumping off point for early season cruises headed to all the spots we intend to explore. The Valdez Peninsula is a UNESCO World Heritage site, and is spectacular for birds and wildlife. If you have the time, we recommend arriving a few days early to take advantage of the chance to bird this unique location. Let us know if you are interested in some pre-cruise birding and exploring of this area.
The Falkland Islands (Las Malvinas)
Once aboard the M/V Hondius we head out from Ushuaia, setting sail first for the Falklands. There are a surprising number of endemics and special birds to see here including the Striated Caracara (“Johnny Rook”), Falkland Steamerduck, Cobb’s Wren and still other specials.
White-bridled Finch by George Armistead
Striated Caracara by George Armistead
Falkland Steamerducks by George Armistead
South Georgia
After a couple days exploring this unique archipelago, we then push offshore again, headed still further east, while skirting the edge of the Scotia Arc, for a couple days before we reach stunning South Georgia. Surely one of the most remarkable wildlife destinations on Earth, many would characterize South Georgia as the highlight of their life as a naturalist. For just the pure aesthetics, it is tough to beat. Seals bellowing, skuas marauding, King Penguins as far as you can see, with mountains, fjords and plains all spreading out in front of you. The landscape offers an intensity some say is unparalleled elsewhere on Earth. Even after a couple days here, folks struggle to tear themselves away.
And yet… a new continent awaits!
Photo by Oceanwide Expeditions
Photo by Oceanwide Expeditions
South Georgia Pintail by George Armistead
The Antarctic Peninsula
We make our way to the peninsula enjoying seabirds as we cross the Antarctic Convergence and the sealife changes. And before you know it, we are beholding the continent of Antarctica. A place that seems unthinkable to most, seeing it and breathing it in is something one does not forget. Here often the Humpback whale show really picks up, and we get into the zone for Adelie and the Chinstrap penguins, which are arguably the two most dapper. We expect to land and set foot onto this revered spot on Earth, as we explore various spots along the Peninsula.
Pelagic Birding At Sea
Between landings there is still much to see. We have a couple multi-day stretches at sea and these can make for fabulous birding. With a watchful eye from the observation decks we stand good chances in transit to see special seabirds and cetaceans. Certain scarce seabird species are more likely at this season than at other times. Our last leg of the cruise, we cross the Drake Passage, and will wait to see if we get a “Drake Shake” or “Drake Lake” experience, before we find ourselves back in Ushuaia.
Southern Fulmar (with Pintado Petrel) by George Armistead
Atlantic Petrel by George Armistead
Snow Petrel by George Armistead
Ushuaia
Ushuaia, Argentina, itself is a remarkable place to visit. With a gorgeous waterfront, and bordering Tierra del Fuego National Park, the town is a novelty worth exploring for a day or more. Often participants of this tour will take an additional day or two to explore the area, and see the park. There are many parillas (steakhouse grilles) where one can enjoy great food and wonderful Argentine wines. A visit to Tierra del Fuego National Park can yield sightings of Magellanic Woodpecker, White-throated Treerunner, Austral Pygmy-Owl, and other birds too.
Dolphin Gulls by George Armistead
Rigor, Pace & Pests:
Expedition cruise requires being able-bodied enough to navigate the ship while at sea, including possibly during rough seas.
If planning to enjoy the landings, must be nimble enough to board and disembark zodiacs.
Seeing some birds/animals requires standing or remaining on deck outside for a couple hours at time, at times inclement weather, while seeing others requires landing at specific sites. Of course always, we need some luck and for the wildlife to cooperate.
The ship is very comfortable with great cabins, and the food is excellent.
See the ship details here: https://oceanwide-expeditions.com/our-fleet/m-v-hondius
PRICE & BOOKING INFO
A range of cabin spaces are available. Please inquire for availability of your preferred cabin type.
CABINS Per person (sharing):
Quadruple Porthole $14800 USD
Triple Porthole $16600 USD
Twin Porthole $18150 USD
Twin Window $18900 USD
Twin Deluxe $20700 USD
Superior $21850 USD
Junior Suite $23150 USD
NOTE: Evacuation Insurance is mandatory for this expedition, and that trip cancellation insurance is advisable.
SEE HERE for OCEANWIDE EXPEDITION TERMS & CONDITIONS of booking.
