Falkland Islands - South Georgia - Elephant Island - Antarctica - Polar Circle

Wildlife Photography Expedition: Falkland Islands - South Georgia - Elephant Island - Antarctica - Polar Circle

Guided by Rachel Bigsby, for Oceanwide Expeditions

Overview

Embark on a 22-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, Elephant Island, Antarctica and the South Polar Circle, offering extraordinary access to breathtaking landscapes and wildlife while enjoying gourmet dining, enriching lectures, and intimate Zodiac excursions.

Key Details

• Duration: 21 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

Encounter thriving seabird colonies and dolphins in this secluded archipelago. Highlights include:

• Westpoint Island: Observe black-browed albatrosses and rockhopper penguins in a spectacular cliffside setting.

• Saunders Island: Capture images of penguins, albatrosses, and imperial shags in their natural habitats.

• Port Stanley: Step into Victorian-era charm with colourful houses, historic pubs, and the fascinating Falklands War Museum.
  

Days 5–6: The Antarctic Convergence – A Seabird Spectacle

As we cross into cooler waters, nutrient-rich upwellings attract a dazzling array of seabirds, including albatrosses, petrels, and skuas. This is a birder’s paradise and a photographer’s dream.

Days 7–10: South Georgia – The Crown Jewel of Wildlife

Explore the wildlife-rich shores of South Georgia, home to:

• King Penguin Colonies: Photograph three of the largest king penguin colonies in the world.

• Grytviken: Visit the South Georgia Museum and Shackleton’s grave amid king penguins and elephant seals.

• Fortuna Bay: Follow in Shackleton’s footsteps on a hike through a stunning glacial landscape.
  

Days 11–14: The South Orkney Islands and Elephant Island

Marvel at towering icebergs and possibly visit Orcadas Base, an Argentine research station. At Elephant Island, step into history at Point Wild, where Shackleton’s crew survived one of the most legendary rescues of all time.

Days 15–20: The Antarctic Peninsula and Beyond

Immerse yourself in the unparalleled beauty of Antarctica. Potential highlights include:

• Neko Harbour and Paradise Bay: Photograph majestic glaciers, towering peaks, and playful whales.

• Crystal Sound and Detaille Island: Cross the Polar Circle to capture otherworldly landscapes and explore a historic British research station.

• Pourquoi Pas Island: Navigate through tight fjords surrounded by towering, glacier-crowded mountains.
  

Days 21–23: The Drake Passage and Ushuaia

Bid farewell to the icy wilderness as you cross the Drake Passage, capturing more seabirds along the way. Disembark in Ushuaia, forever changed by the 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: