Falkland Islands - South Georgia - Antarctica

Wildlife Photography Expedition: Antarctica, South Georgia, and the Falklands

Guided by Rachel Bigsby, for Oceanwide Expeditions

Overview

Embark on a 20-day wildlife photography expedition through the Southern Hemisphere, co-guided by Rachel Bigsby as onboard wildlife photography leader and ornithologist for Oceanwide Expeditions. Sail aboard the state-of-the-art m/v Hondius, combining luxury, adventure, and expert-led photography tuition. This journey spans from the Falkland Islands to South Georgia and Antarctica, offering extraordinary access to breathtaking landscapes and wildlife while enjoying gourmet dining, enriching lectures, and intimate Zodiac excursions.

Key Details

• Duration: 19 nights

• Location: Falkland Islands, South Georgia, Antarctic Peninsula

• Group Size: 170 passengers in 80 cabins

• Skill Level: Suitable for all photography levels

  
  

Itinerary

• Day 1: Ushuaia: Begin your adventure in the world’s southernmost city, boarding the expedition vessel in the afternoon. As you sail through the Beagle Channel, soak in the awe-inspiring scenery of this rugged gateway to the Southern Ocean.
  

• Days 2–4: The Falkland Islands Explore the vibrant wildlife of the Falklands, home to diverse seabirds, penguins, and dolphins. Highlights include:
  

  • Carcass Island: A rodent-free sanctuary with endemic birds and breeding Magellanic penguins.

  • Saunders Island: Witness black-browed albatrosses, rockhopper penguins, and king penguins in their natural habitats.

  • Port Stanley: Discover Victorian-era charm, English-style pubs, and the intriguing history of the Falklands.
    

• Days 5–6: Crossing to South Georgia Sail the Antarctic Convergence, where nutrient-rich waters attract albatrosses, shearwaters, and skuas. The air fills with anticipation as you approach South Georgia.
  

• Days 7–10: South Georgia Immerse yourself in a wildlife haven teeming with king penguins, fur seals, and elephant seals. Iconic stops include:
  

  • Salisbury Plain, St. Andrews Bay, and Gold Harbour: Home to three of the largest king penguin colonies in the world.

  • Fortuna Bay: Trace the final steps of Shackleton’s legendary journey.

  • Grytviken: Walk among penguins and seals in this abandoned whaling station, and visit Shackleton’s grave.
    

• Days 11–14: The South Orkney Islands and Beyond Journey southwards, with opportunities to visit Orcadas Base or Coronation Island, weather permitting. Marvel at enormous icebergs and Antarctic petrels en route to the Antarctic Peninsula.
  

• Days 15–17: Antarctic Peninsula and Weddell Sea Step onto the Antarctic Continent and explore sites such as Paulet Island, Brown Bluff, or Elephant Island. Towering tabular icebergs and breathtaking icescapes define this portion of the voyage.
  

• Days 18–20: The Drake Passage and Return As you cross the Drake Passage, reflect on your journey while observing familiar seabirds. Return to Ushuaia, forever changed by this incredible adventure.
  

The Ship: m/v Hondius

Hondius is the first-registered Polar Class 6 vessel in the world, meeting the latest and highest Lloyd’s Register standards for ice-strengthened cruise ships. Surpassing the requirements of the Polar Code adopted by the International Maritime Organisation (IMO), Hondius represents the most flexible, advanced, innovative touring vessel in the polar regions, thoroughly optimised for exploratory voyages that provide you the utmost first-hand contact with the Arctic and Antarctica.

Booking Details

Reserve your place following the link below: