Falklands, South Georgia & Antarctica

Shackleton's Discovery 20 Days

Prices From £14,800pp
October to November | 18 nights

Shackleton's Discovery 20 Days

Aboard: SH Minerva SH Vega

This once-in-a-lifetime expedition takes you on an epic journey through three of the world’s most remote and awe-inspiring destinations, the Falkland Islands, South Georgia, and Antarctica. Sail across the Southern Ocean aboard a boutique expedition vessel, discovering breathtaking landscapes, extraordinary wildlife, and a legacy of heroic exploration.

In the Falklands, encounter windswept cliffs alive with penguins, albatrosses, and seals. Continue to wild and dramatic South Georgia, home to vast colonies of king penguins and the resting place of explorer Sir Ernest Shackleton. Finally, venture to the Antarctic Peninsula, where you’ll navigate glittering icebergs, witness towering glaciers, and set foot on the fabled White Continent itself.

Guided by an expert expedition team, each day brings thrilling opportunities for discovery, from Zodiac landings and wildlife encounters to optional kayaking and snowshoeing adventures.

Highlights

  • Explore three of the Southern Ocean’s most iconic regions: the Falklands, South Georgia, and Antarctica
  • Encounter immense colonies of penguins, seals, seabirds, and whales in their natural habitat
  • Learn from an expert expedition team through onboard lectures and guided excursions
  • Discover the history of Shackleton and the heroic age of polar exploration
  • Experience breathtaking ice and mountain scenery on Zodiac cruises and shore landings
  • Kayaking and snowshoeing options available (select departures - fees apply)

What's Included

  • Return regional flights between Buenos Aires and Ushuaia
  • Group return transfers from the airport to the cruise port 
  • One night pre-cruise accommodation with breakfast in a 4/5-star hotel or onboard
  • All meals onboard
  • 24-hour room service
  • Coffee, tea, soft drinks and selected alcoholic beverages available 24-hours per day
  • Lecture programmes by our experienced expedition team and guest speakers
  • Standard WiFi
  • Onboard gratuities and port taxes
  • One selected shore excursion/expedition activity per port of call
  • Expedition parka and use of rubber boots 


Our popularitinerary Suggestions

All our itinerary holidays are fully customisable

Buenos Aires
1Day

Buenos Aires

Arrive independently in Buenos Aires, Argentina’s vibrant and cosmopolitan capital. After checking into your included overnight hotel, take some time to unwind or begin exploring this city of grand boulevards, leafy plazas, and passionate tango rhythms. Whether you stroll through the elegant Recoleta district, visit a classic café, or simply soak in the lively atmosphere, Buenos Aires offers the perfect introduction to your upcoming adventure at the edge of the world.

Fly to Ushuaia - Embark
2Day

Fly to Ushuaia - Embark

This morning, take your included flight to Ushuaia, the world’s southernmost city and gateway to Antarctica. Nestled between the snow-capped Andes and the Beagle Channel, Ushuaia offers a stunning backdrop as you transfer to the port and board your expedition vessel. After settling into your cabin and meeting your expedition team, set sail through the scenic Beagle Channel, where the adventure truly begins. As you cruise past rugged coastlines and distant islets, enjoy your first taste of the wild beauty that defines the southern ocean.

At sea
3Day

At sea

Spend the day at sea, enjoying the tranquil rhythm of life aboard your expedition vessel as you make your way toward the Falkland Islands. Take time to relax on deck and watch for albatross and petrels gliding effortlessly in the ship’s wake, or visit the library and observation lounge to soak in the ever-changing seascape. Sea days are also an opportunity to join expert-led lectures on the region’s wildlife, geology, and history, or take part in photography workshops to hone your skills for the adventures ahead. Whether sharing stories with fellow travellers or simply watching the horizon, this is a day to unwind and anticipate the wonders to come.

West Point Island & Saunders Island
4Day

West Point Island & Saunders Island

Your first landings in the Falkland Islands reveal the astonishing diversity of this remote archipelago. Begin at West Point Island, a lush haven of rolling hills and golden beaches where rockhopper, gentoo, and Magellanic penguins share the cliffs with black-browed albatross nesting in the sea breeze. Among the grasslands, keep an eye out for the Falklands’ rare endemic plants, including silvery buttercups and hairy daisies.

Later, continue to Saunders Island, where Commerson’s dolphins frolic in the surf and fur seals bask on rocky shores. As you hike across the island’s mossy terrain beneath towering Cliff Mountain, encounter colonies of penguins and cormorants, and discover bursts of wildflowers like the delicate pink Felton’s. These rugged, windswept islands offer an unforgettable glimpse into the untamed beauty of the South Atlantic.

Port Stanley
5Day

Port Stanley

Today you’ll arrive in Port Stanley, the charming capital of the Falkland Islands and a slice of Britain in the South Atlantic. With its brightly painted houses, red post boxes, and friendly locals, the town is a delight to explore on foot. Visit the Historic Dockyard Museum to learn about the islands’ maritime heritage, polar exploration, and unique culture, or simply wander along the waterfront and soak in the relaxed atmosphere.

A short trip to Gypsy Cove offers the chance to see Magellanic penguins nesting among the dunes, while sea lions and dolphins are often spotted playing in the harbour waters. As the day ends, reflect on the islands’ fascinating mix of wildlife, history, and rugged natural beauty before returning to your expedition ship.

At Sea
6 - 7Days

At Sea

Spend the next two days sailing eastward across the South Atlantic Ocean toward the legendary island of South Georgia. As the ship cuts through open waters, keep your binoculars ready for the wandering albatrosses, petrels, and other seabirds that often glide gracefully alongside the vessel.

Sea days offer time to relax and deepen your understanding of the region through expert-led lectures on South Georgia’s remarkable wildlife and history. Learn about the heroic age of Antarctic exploration, the island’s crucial role in Ernest Shackleton’s epic journey, and the conservation efforts that have restored its ecosystems. Between presentations, unwind on deck, enjoy good company, and look forward to the unforgettable landscapes and wildlife encounters that await.

South Georgia
8 - 11Days

South Georgia

Prepare to be awed as you arrive in South Georgia, one of the most spectacular wildlife destinations on Earth. Often described as the Galapagos of the Poles, this rugged island teems with life. Tens of thousands of king and gentoo penguins fill the beaches, their calls mingling with the deep bellows of elephant seals and the chatter of fur seals along the shore.

Your captain and expedition team will choose the best landing sites each day, ensuring the most rewarding encounters possible. You may visit Grytviken, the historic former whaling station where Sir Ernest Shackleton, the legendary Antarctic explorer, was laid to rest. Walking among the weathered relics of the past and Shackleton’s simple gravesite is a powerful reminder of the island’s place in exploration history.

Whether hiking along dramatic glacial landscapes or standing amid vast penguin colonies, your time on South Georgia will be filled with unforgettable moments of wildlife, history, and raw natural beauty.

At Sea
12Day

At Sea

Leaving South Georgia behind, the ship charts a course southwest toward the Antarctic Peninsula. As you cross the Scotia Sea, spend the day enjoying the rhythm of life at sea. From the deck, watch for albatrosses soaring effortlessly on the wind and petrels skimming the waves, while your expedition team delivers engaging lectures on the history, geology, and wildlife of the Great White Continent.

This is also a perfect time to review your photographs, share stories with fellow travellers, or simply relax and take in the vast expanse of ocean stretching to the horizon. Each mile brings you closer to Antarctica’s icy majesty and a world of towering glaciers, sculpted icebergs, and extraordinary wildlife just waiting to be discovered.

Antarctic Peninsula
13 - 17Days

Antarctic Peninsula

Welcome to the Antarctic Peninsula, a realm of astonishing beauty where nature reigns supreme. Over the next several days, your expedition unfolds among towering glaciers, serrated peaks, and icebergs sculpted into surreal shapes. Each day brings new adventures, with your captain and expedition team selecting the best sites for exploration based on weather and ice conditions.

Shore excursions may lead you to Mikkelsen Harbour, where gentoo penguins, snowy sheathbills, and skuas mingle near resting Weddell seals, or through the breathtaking Lemaire Channel, one of Antarctica’s most photogenic passages.

Take to the water by kayak for an intimate perspective of this frozen wonderland, or don snowshoes for an invigorating trek across untouched landscapes. (Optional – fees may apply)

Whether cruising silently among icebergs in a Zodiac or standing on shore surrounded by curious penguins, the Antarctic Peninsula promises moments of wonder and reflection that few places on Earth can match.

At Sea
18 - 19Days

At Sea

As your Antarctic adventure draws to a close, the ship sets a northward course across the legendary Drake Passage back toward Ushuaia. These two days at sea offer the perfect opportunity to relax and reflect on the extraordinary experiences of the past weeks.

From the deck, keep watch for albatrosses and petrels gliding effortlessly over the waves, and perhaps even a final glimpse of whales breaking the surface. Join your expedition team for one last round of engaging talks, photo recaps, and farewell gatherings with new friends.

Whether sharing stories in the lounge or simply gazing out over the vast Southern Ocean, this is a time to savour the memories of your journey through the Falklands, South Georgia, and Antarctica, a once-in-a-lifetime voyage through the planet’s most remote and breathtaking wilderness.

Ushuaia - Fly to Buenos Aires
20Day

Ushuaia - Fly to Buenos Aires

Arriving back in Ushuaia, your incredible expedition draws to a close. After breakfast, bid farewell to your expert crew and fellow travellers before disembarking your ship.

A group transfer will take you to the airport for your included flight to Buenos Aires, where you can continue your journey home or extend your stay to enjoy the vibrant culture and cuisine of Argentina’s cosmopolitan capital.

A view from Above

All Aboard

SH Minerva
Luxury  first class vessel

SH Minerva

Recently launched (November 2021) the beautiful SH Minerva is an elegant 5-star boutique ship that has been created in a Scandi-design style to provide ultimate comfort and enjoyment. This intimate ship carries just 152 guests and has been built to allow for exploration in off the beaten path destinations, including the Polar regions. With a PC5 ice-strengthened hull combined with extra-large stabilisers, all journeys are smooth and comfortable.

All areas of the vessel have been decorated and furnished in a sophisticated and elegant style, with wide open public spaces and unobstructed views throughout the ship. Features of this luxury vessel include a wonderful al-fresco dining area surrounding a heated outdoor pool, a wellness area with state-of-the-art gym, jacuzzi and sauna with breathtaking sea views, a beautiful main restaurant, welcoming club lounge and supremely comfortable observation lounge.

The 76 staterooms are equally stylish. From the standard staterooms to amazing suites, each room is luxurious, cosy and expertly designed. Each room features a luxury en-suite bathroom and living area, whilst higher category rooms also feature balconies, spacious walk-in wardrobes and separate living rooms.

SH Vega
Luxury  first class vessel

SH Vega

Launched in April 2022, the magnificent SH Vega offers elegant 5-star boutique accommodation aboard a ship that has been decorated in a Scandi-design style to provide ultimate comfort and enjoyment. With an intimate atmosphere, the ship carries just 152 guests and has been built to allow for exploration in off the beaten path destinations, including the Polar regions. With a PC5 ice-strengthened hull combined with extra-large stabilisers, all journeys are very smooth and comfortable.

All areas of the vessel are decorated and furnished in a sophisticated style, with wide open public spaces and unobstructed views throughout the ship. Features of this luxury vessel include a wonderful al-fresco dining area surrounding a heated outdoor pool, a wellness area with state-of-the-art gym, jacuzzi and sauna with breathtaking sea views, a beautiful main restaurant, welcoming club lounge and supremely comfortable observation lounge.

The 76 staterooms are equally stylish. From the standard staterooms to amazing suites, each room is luxurious, cosy and expertly designed. Each room features a luxury en-suite bathroom and living area, whilst higher category rooms also feature balconies, spacious walk-in wardrobes and separate living rooms.

we work hard to earn passionate reviews from our clients.

4.9
44 Google reviews

Now that I am back from my odyssey voyage, I thought I would let you know that after all that planning it really did exceed my expectations – we managed landings everywhere even on Tristan da Cuhna and had great bird sightings. The guides all knew what they were talking about too and made sure I got some great photos – still sorting them all out! Thanks for everything and see you at Birdfair!

Dave Martin

Overall I think that it was an excellent trip that was well worth the price paid and I would have no hesitation recommending your company to others.

Steve Sutton

Just a quick note to express my sincere thanks to you and all your staff for making this an epic adventure of immense proportions. Everything went smoothly, pickups, hotels and most of all the expedition itself. Truly a mind blowing experience unlike any I have ever taken.

Mr J Borg, Malta

Too much to choose from? This is where we come in

Take advantage of our vast experience, passion and expertise to help you hand craft the perfect Antarctica adventure for you.

Simon Rowland Senior Travel Expert

Simon’s deep passion for and first-hand knowledge of a vast range of destinations all over the world gives him the ideal skills to help you create a truly unforgettable wildlife inspired adventure to the most exciting places on the planet.

Sheena Ogley Senior Travel Expert

With countless travel experiences and an enduring hunger for adventure, Sheena knows exactly what’s needed to craft a holiday of a lifetime. Her experience and generosity of spirit are legendary and she’ll help you build an itinerary that will make all your dreams come true.

Michael Gardiner Senior Travel Expert

Mike lives and breathes adventure travel and has a wealth of experience in some of the most exciting and inspirational destinations in the world. His expertise and first-hand experience afford him the skills to help build holidays to remember.

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Outside the uk
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Ready to start planning youronce in a lifetime trip?

Call us - 0800 195 3385
Outside the uk? + 44 1625 5811 43
+ 44 1625 5811 43 Call us - 0800 195 3385

Chat Now

Fill in our
Enquiry form

Book Consultation

Book a
Consultation

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