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No other voyage compares: spend more time exploring the Falkland Islands and South Georgia than ever before on our exclusive Falkland Islands and South Georgia: 20-Day Wildlife Adventure. Sailing from the Patagonian coastal city of Puerto Madryn, you’ll reach the northwesternmost islands of the Falklands—a rare achievement for even the most seasoned polar adventurers. Enjoy three days exploring the Falklands archipelago, with visits to spectacular sites like Steeple Jason—the world’s largest black-browed albatross colony—and New Island. Then immerse yourself for six full days in wildlife-rich South Georgia—virtually unheard of in expedition travel.
Highlights
• Enjoy more time in the Falklands and South Georgia than any other itinerary
• Explore spectacular Steeple Jason and New Island, famous for diverse wildlife
• Encounter southern elephant seals during peak pupping season
• Potentially see six penguin species: gentoo, chinstrap, Magellanic, rockhopper, king and macaroni
• Pay homage at the grave of explorer Sir Ernest Shackleton
• Potentially see four species of dolphins: Commerson’s, Peale’s, dusky, and hourglass.
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Day 1 - Arrive in Buenos Aires, Argentina
Upon arriving in this cosmopolitan city, known for its architecture and rich European heritage, you will independently transfer to your group hotel, which is in your Charter Flight and Hotel Package.
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Day 2 - Fly to Puerto Madryn and Embark
Following breakfast at our hotel, we will transfer to the airport for our charter flight to Puerto Madryn, in the Patagonian province of Chubut on Argentina’s stunning Atlantic coast. Upon arrival in Puerto Madryn, your checked bags will be transferred directly to your cabin on Ultramarine, leaving you free to explore this lively Patagonian port town. As you stroll the shoreline, you may spot sea lions basking on the beach or catch sight of southern right whales offshore. Visit the local cafés and artisan markets for a taste of the region’s Welsh-Argentine heritage. In the afternoon, we’ll gather for the group transfer to the port to board Ultramarine. After check-in, you’ll be shown to your comfortable cabin— your home for the next 18 nights. Once you’ve settled in, your warm and friendly Expedition Team will introduce themselves and the ship, sharing important details about the voyage ahead. Expect an air of excitement as we set off toward the wildlife-rich subAntarctic islands of the Falkland Islands and South Georgia.
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Days 3 and 4 - At Sea: Getting to know your ship and fellow travelers
From Puerto Madryn we set our course for the Falkland Islands, where we aim to dedicate at least three days to exploration. En route, we will transit rich waters that support an array of wildlife, and in these latitudes—between 42 and 51 degrees north—you may spot avian and marine species you might not see further south. Be sure to spend time on the outer decks taking in the open water, and keep your binoculars handy for any wildlife sightings. Your Expedition Team will host expert presentations about the Patagonian coastlines and the isolated wildlife hotspots of the Falklands and South Georgia. Time at sea also provides opportunities to slow down and relax, and spend time getting to know your fellow ship mates who have traveled from diverse countries around the globe—and who share your passion for wildlife and adventure. It’s not uncommon for guests to make lifelong friends. As we near the Falkland Islands sometime in the evening of our second day at sea, you may notice an increase in seabirds, particularly albatrosses. We’ll set course for the farthest—and rarely visited— northwest islands in the archipelago. Some of these islands are annual nesting sites for tens of thousands of birds, including the black-browed albatross. While many eyes may be trained toward the horizon and above in search of birds, stay alert to signs of movement above and beneath the surface of the water. Peale’s, Commerson’s, and dusky dolphins can be seen here, along with the occasional baleen and long-finned pilot whale.
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Days 5 to 7 - The Falkland Islands
With extended time in the Falklands, we’ll seek opportunities to visit seldom explored sites renowned for birdlife and beauty. Our destinations will depend entirely on weather and marine forecasts, as the outer Falklands are exposed to oceanic swells. We’ll choose locations that offer the best—and safest—conditions for exploration. One such site is the small, slender Steeple Jason, one of the most northwesterly islands in the Falklands. Difficult to access, it has been featured in numerous wildlife documentaries for its prolific black-browed albatross colony—the largest in the world, with an estimated 100,000 to 180,000 breeding pairs. It’s truly a sight to behold. Their closely packed nests stretch for hundreds of meters along the shoreline, just beyond dense tussock grasses. Looking west to sea, you’ll likely see albatross riding the wind. The walk to the colony crosses uneven terrain and impressive tussock grass, which provides critical habitat for many other bird species. These vivid green grasses, rooted in rocky soil, create a striking contrast with the sharp ridgeline in the background. Largely untouched by humans, Steeple Jason is home to a small shepherd’s outpost and a research field station— overshadowed by vast wilderness. Steeple Jason offers a rare chance to feel truly remote amid a vast ecosystem alive with countless animals. Our explorations may also take us to New Island, just over thirty nautical miles south of Steeple Jason. A paradise for birders, this small island boasts coves with white sandy beaches sheltered from the open ocean, and is considered one of the most beautiful in the Falklands. Around 25,000 to 30,000 black-browed albatross nest here, joined by Magellanic, gentoo, and southern rockhopper penguins—each with its own distinct nesting style. Other common sightings include songbirds and the formidable striated caracara. Dolphins, including those in shallow waters, are frequently seen in the area, adding to the island’s remarkable wildlife encounters. Other wilderness destinations may include bird-rich West Point and Saunders Islands in the western Falklands. Saunders Island will amaze you with its long white-sand beaches, the northern shore stretching for kilometers and facing the open sea. It’s almost surreal—particularly if you’ve encountered penguins in ice-and snowladen Antarctica on previous voyages— to watch gentoo, Magellanic, and southern rockhopper penguins making their way to the water along sandy stretches. There’s also a smaller colony of black-browed albatross nests on a nearby cliff, sharing the gently sloped, grassy island with grazing sheep tended by the warm-hearted Saunders family. Look for Commerson’s dolphins, often spotted in the shallow waters near Saunders’ sandy beaches. West Point Island is another Falkland gem, with vibrant green vegetation and blooming spring flowers. From the rocky beach, a gentle walk (with slight elevation) leads through a picturesque meadow to a cliff where black-browed albatross nest. West Point Island is home to 2,000 breeding pairs. We’ll visit a small section of the colony for intimate views of albatross in their nests and soaring above the waters. The walk passes through grassy fields dotted with wildflowers, blending the domestic with the wild. Energetic hikers may tackle Mt. Ararat for sweeping views, while others can travel by 4X4 to the colony and overlooks. Peale’s dolphins, Falkland steamer ducks, and striated caracara are often seen here. Carcass is another excellent destination. Like Saunders and New islands, Carcass boasts stunning white-sand beaches meeting the cold, blue waters of the South Atlantic. Magellanic and gentoo penguins nest here, and the tussock grasses are especially impressive. Look overhead for peregrine falcons soaring high above. No visit to the Falklands is complete without a stop in its largest community— Stanley. Highlights include the museum (admission covered) and the striking arch monument built from the jaws of blue whales. Pop into a local restaurant or traditional British pub for Falkland f ish and chips, or a pint while chatting with locals about life on this windswept sub-Antarctic island. Stanley has a distinct boundary—where residential streets end and open wilderness and sheep meadows begin to stretch into the horizon. We’ll set sail in early afternoon, allowing plenty of time to cover the 700+ nautical miles to our next destination: South Georgia.
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Days 8 and 9 - At Sea: Traversing the Antarctic Convergence
While at sea, we may become aware of our transit over the Antarctic Convergence, or Polar Front. This biological boundary marks where the South Atlantic meets the Southern Ocean, and we’ll notice the change as we cross it. Below the Convergence, the water is much colder; where it meets the warmer Atlantic, cloudy or foggy conditions often form. This mixing of currents creates an ideal foraging ground for a variety of birds and marine mammals. We’ll likely be accompanied by albatross, petrels, and shearwaters, and may spot whales—some species more often than others. Far from shore, we might see Antarctic fur seals. Seeing prions (part of the petrel family) and shags in greater numbers indicates we’re approaching South Georgia.
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Days 10 to 15 - South Georgia: Galapagos of the South Seas
After enjoying South Georgia from a distance, we’ll head toward its numerous beaches to find a bay for your first excursion. Landing sites are varied, largely determined by the weather conditions. The sites you visit will deliver wildlife encounters unrivaled anywhere else on Earth. Biodiverse South Georgia—often described as the Galapagos of the south seas—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 you long to realize that you are in a birder’s paradise, as burrowing seabirds, albatrosses, and petrels can be seen in abundance. You’ll find that 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. Your Expedition Team will help bring those days to life when you visit old whaling stations and enjoy presentations on the South Georgia then and now. One of the most significant sites you will visit on South Georgia is Grytviken. This settlement is one of the first whaling stations established in sub-Antarctic waters. Grytviken has a special appeal largely because it’s the site of the grave of Sir Ernest Shackleton, one of the most famous Antarctic explorers. Guests and expedition team members uphold a cherished tradition at the Grytviken cemetery, raising a toast to one of the greatest polar heroes. Mid-October and early November are exceptional times to visit South Georgia, especially for wildlife enthusiasts. At this time of year, male elephant seals battle for control of beach sections, securing breeding rights for females entering their territories. These bouts are fought in bursts, with rest periods between clashes. As the largest pinniped species on the planet, watching these giants spar is a true spectacle. Mid-October and early November are exceptional times to visit South Georgia, especially for wildlife enthusiasts. At this time of year, male elephant seals battle for control of beach sections, securing breeding rights for females entering their territories. These bouts are fought in bursts, with rest periods between clashes. As the largest pinniped species on the planet, watching these giants spar is a true spectacle. With extra time in South Georgia, we’ll have greater flexibility to explore more sites. If conditions allow, we may visit King Haakon Bay and the very beach where Ernest Shackleton and his party aboard the James Caird landed after their perilous journey from Elephant Island. If not, we’ll spend more time along the island’s leeward coast, aiming to visit its massive king penguin coloniesThe largest of these colonies. St. Andrew’s, which—by conservative estimates—is home to more than 150,000 breeding pairs. We’ll also seek out macaroni penguin colonies—conditions permitting—as these birds favor rugged, exposed coastlines. Possible sites include Hercules Bay, Royal Bay, and Cooper Bay. Expect to encounter some of the island’s millions of petrels and prions. For those craving some active off-ship adventure, we plan to offer (weatherpermitting) an extended hike along the f inal stretch of the route taken by Ernest Shackleton, Frank Worsley, and Tom Crean to the Stromness whaling station in May 1916.
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Days 16 to 19 - At Sea: Starting the Journey Home
To say that South Georgia is remote would be an understatement, and as such, we’ll need to invest the necessary time to travel the more than 1,000 nautical miles on our return to South America. We’ll begin our westward journey through the Southern Ocean, crossing back over the Antarctic Convergence and passing near Burwood Bank—a shallow underwater plateau surrounded by deeper waters. All three of these dynamic regions can provide opportunities for bird-watching and marine mammal sightings, and we’ll feel the gradual shift from the chillier ecological Antarctic to the somewhat warmer environments of Tierra del Fuego. If the skies are clear and visibility is good, we might catch our first views of the South American mountains on the horizon well before nightfall. As with other regions we’ve visited, the shelves near the continent can be rich with birdlife and occasionally marine mammals—but the journey isn’t over quite yet. After dinner, we will sail west through the famous Beagle Channel on our approach to Ushuaia, Argentina.
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Day 20 - Disembark in Ushuaia and Fly to Buenos Aires
We will arrive in Ushuaia in the morning and disembark after breakfast. You will be transferred to the airport for the return group charter flight to Buenos Aires, which is part of your Charter Flight and Hotel Package.
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Please note:
Itineraries are subject to change.
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19 October, 2027 to 07 November, 2027
Located on Deck 3, and approximately 285 sq. ft. (26.5 m2). This suite is perfect for guests traveling solo who want to share their experience with other like-minded travelers of the same gender, or for groups of three traveling together. Featuring three separate single beds, and amenities for each of the three guests. Features: three single beds (two of which can be combined into a double bed), sitting area, picture window, desk, refrigerator, TV, private bathroom with shower and heated floors. Standard Amenities: hair dryer, bathrobe, slippers, shampoo, conditioner, shower gel, complimentary water bottle.
Located on Deck 3, and approximately 285 sq. ft. (26.5 m2). These suites are perfect for people traveling together or solo guests looking to share with like-minded individuals. This suite maximizes interior living space while still offering guests the opportunity to stay connected to the outdoors. Our entry-level twin suites are the largest available on a ship of this class. Features: one double or two single beds, sitting area with sofa bed, picture window, desk, refrigerator, TV, private bathroom with shower and heated floors. Standard Amenities: hair dryer, bathrobe, slippers, shampoo, conditioner, shower gel, complimentary water bottle.
Located on Decks 4 and 6, with approximately 226 sq. ft. (21 m2) of indoor living space, and a 52 sq. ft. (4.8 m2) balcony, this entry-level balcony suite is one of the largest available on a ship of this class. This suite is perfect for guests who are looking for both indoor and outdoor living spaces. There are four connecting suites in this category, making this an excellent option for families or groups wanting to stay connected to each other during their expedition. Features: one double or two single beds, sitting area with sofa bed, private balcony, desk, refrigerator, TV, private bathroom with shower and heated floors. Standard Amenities: hair dryer, bathrobe, slippers, shampoo, conditioner, shower gel, complimentary water bottle.
Located on Decks 4 and 6, with approximately 299 sq. ft. (27.8 m2) of indoor living space, and a 70 sq. ft. (6.5 m2) balcony. This suite is perfect for guests wanting a larger living space, full bathroom, and a substantial balcony. Deluxe Balcony Suites are the first suite type to offer additional privacy in the bathroom with an enclosed toilet, a full bath and shower to make it easier for guests to get ready together in the morning. Features: one double or two single beds, sitting area with sofa bed, private balcony, desk, refrigerator, TV, private bathroom with shower, bathtub and heated floors. Standard Amenities: hair dryer, bathrobe, slippers, shampoo, conditioner, shower gel, complimentary water bottle.
Located on Deck 6, with approximately 350 sq. ft. (32.5 m2) of indoor living space, and a 100 sq. ft. (9.3 m2) balcony. This suite is perfect for guests wanting generous interiors with a wide layout and the largest balconies on the ship. Centrally located on Deck 6, guests will enjoy minimal movement and motion from the comfort of these suites. Features: one double or two single beds, sitting area with sofa bed, private extra-wide balcony, desk, refrigerator, TV, private bathroom with shower, bathtub and heated floors. Standard Amenities: hair dryer, bathrobe, slippers, shampoo, conditioner, shower gel, complimentary water bottle. Premium Amenities: upgraded bedding, in suite coffee. Services: onboard WiFi credit*, included laundry**, in suite dining during scheduled meals. *terms & conditions apply, WiFi may be limited in duration or data **terms & conditions apply, limited number of laundry loads per voyage
Located on Deck 6, and approximately 132 sq. ft. (12.3 m2). This suite is perfect for solo guests who appreciate privacy and want to wake up to sweeping views from the comfort of their bed. These are the only solo suites with floor-to-ceiling windows available onboard any ship in its class. Features: single bed, floor-to-ceiling window, desk, refrigerator, TV, private bathroom with shower and heated floors. Standard Amenities: hair dryer, bathrobe, slippers, shampoo, conditioner, shower gel, complimentary water bottle.
The only suite category to be located on Deck 7, with approximately 369 sq. ft. (34.3 m2) of indoor living space, and a 67 sq. ft. (6.2 m2) balcony. This suite is perfect for guests wanting to wake up to unobstructed polar views from the warmth and comfort of their bed onboard the ship. These suites offer the best of everything—views, spacious interiors, full bathrooms and generous balcony sizes—as well as easy access to the wellness centre. Features: one double or two single beds, sitting area with sofa bed, private balcony, desk, refrigerator, TV, private bathroom with shower, bathtub and heated floors. Standard Amenities: hair dryer, bathrobe, slippers, shampoo, conditioner, shower gel, complimentary water bottle. Premium Amenities: upgraded bedding, in suite coffee. Services: onboard WiFi credit*, included laundry**, in suite dining during scheduled meals. *terms & conditions apply, WiFi may be limited in duration or data **terms & conditions apply, limited number of laundry loads per voyage
Located on Deck 6, with approximately 446 sq. ft. (41.4 m2) of indoor living space and a 46.3 sq. ft. (4.3 m2) balcony. This suite is perfect for guests who want it all. A large, luxurious suite featuring a private bedroom, full bathroom, powder room, and two separate living spaces. This suite is perfect for families or couples who want all the comforts of home onboard the ship. Features: one double or two single beds in a private bedroom with walk-in closet, sitting area with sofa bed and additional closet, private balcony, desk, refrigerator, TV, private bathroom with shower, bathtub and heated floors and separate powder room. Standard Amenities: hair dryer, bathrobe, slippers, shampoo, conditioner, shower gel, complimentary water bottle. Premium Amenities: upgraded bedding, in suite coffee, binoculars on loan. Services: onboard WiFi credit*, included laundry**, in suite dining during scheduled meals, included spa package, upgraded hotel accommodation pre-/post-expedition where applicable, included arrival transfers where applicable. *terms & conditions apply, WiFi may be limited in duration or data **terms & conditions apply, limited number of laundry loads per voyage
Located on Deck 6, with approximately 563 sq. ft. (52.3m2) of interior living space, and a 46 sq. ft. (4.3 m2) balcony. This suite is perfect for guests who want to travel without compromise. Our largest and most luxurious suite features the most sleeping, entertainment and storage space onboard the ship. It is perfect for families or travelers who want all the comforts of home onboard the ship. Features: one double or two single beds in a private bedroom with walk-in closet, sitting area with sofa bed and additional walk-in hallway closet, private balcony, desk, refrigerator, TV, private bathroom with shower, bathtub and heated floors and separate powder room. Standard Amenities: hair dryer, bathrobe, slippers, shampoo, conditioner, shower gel, complimentary water bottle. Premium Amenities: upgraded bedding, in suite coffee, binoculars on loan. Services: onboard WiFi credit*, included laundry**, in suite dining during scheduled meals, included spa package, upgraded hotel accommodation pre-/post-expedition where applicable, included arrival transfers where applicable. *terms & conditions apply, WiFi may be limited in duration or data **terms & conditions apply, limited number of laundry loads per voyage
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Ultramarine
Ultramarine
Vessel Type: Expedition Ship
Length: 128 metres
Passenger Capacity: 199
Built: 2019-2020
The Ultramarine is a next-generation polar expedition ship designed to push the boundaries of exploration and comfort. Carrying up to 199 guests, this advanced vessel features two twin-engine helicopters that open access to rarely visited polar regions and breathtaking aerial perspectives. With its expansive wraparound deck, spacious suites, and more outdoor viewing areas than any other ship in its class, Ultramarine offers an unmatched sense of connection with the surrounding landscapes. Its design balances adventure and elegance, featuring stylish lounges, an impressive theatre, two gourmet dining venues, a tranquil spa and sauna with panoramic windows, and a fully equipped fitness centre. Every detail of the ship is crafted for immersive, luxurious discovery in the world’s most remote environments.
Setting a new standard in sustainable exploration, Ultramarine is equipped with cutting-edge environmental technology, including the Micro Auto Gasification System (MAGS), which converts waste into energy, and an industry-leading operational range of 40 days. With four embarkation points and an internal Zodiac hangar for faster landings, guests spend more time adventuring and less time waiting. From heli-hiking and exclusive landings to relaxed evenings in the glass-enclosed Panorama Lounge, Ultramarine combines thrilling exploration with exceptional comfort—delivering the ultimate polar expedition experience.
Paddling Excursion
Glide through the pristine polar waters in a sit-on-top, two-person, inflatable kayak for an unforgettable experience in the Arctic and Antarctic wilderness. These stable, rugged and comfortable crafts are an ideal way to see the polar regions from a different perspective. Experienced guides will lead you safely throughout the paddling excursion. Your group will always be escorted by an additional safety driver who will stay close by to provide additional support.
Sea Kayaking
The kayak adventure option is open to all levels of experience. However, it is highly recommended that you have some sea kayaking related experience prior to kayaking in the polar regions with Quark Expeditions. Our sea kayaks are the ideal means by which to slow down and connect with the pristine natural environments and surroundings.
Special Offers on Falkland Islands and South Georgia
Online prices reflect current special offers and may vary based on demand. This promotion is time limited and subject to availability. Terms and conditions apply. For more information, please contact us.
