South Shetland Islands
The South Shetland Islands are the first place you'll land after crossing the Drake Passage from Patagonia en route to the Antarctic Peninsula. The islands themselves are made up of 20 islands including Deception Island, Livingston Island, King George Island (where most fly-and-cruise trips depart). The South Shetland Islands were first reached in February 1819 and since then, have become home to Chilean and Argentinian research bases.
The South Shetland Islands really are teeming with wildlife and as such are included in all itineraries visiting the Antarctic Peninsula. Here you can expect to see huge penguin rookeries and several seal species lounging on land. On King George Island, you can see Adélie and Chinstrap penguin colonies, as well as Kelp Gulls, Blue-eyed Cormorants, Antarctic Terns and Southern Giant Petrels.
Find out more about visiting the South Shetland Islands on an Antarctic fly-and-cruise trip or browse cruises that visit the Antarctic Peninsula.
Photos of South Shetland Islands
Map of South Shetland Islands
Nearby landmarks
Trips that visit South Shetland Islands
Flexibility is the key to success in Antarctica. All voyage routes take advantage of the ever-changing opportunities provided by nature, crafting a unique and extraordinary experience each time.
Special Offers:Swoop has access to the widest range of offers and can help you find the right trip, cabin, & price.
A classic 10-day voyage to the White Continent. Perfect for those wanting great value and comfortable accommodation. Sail aboard a purpose-built X-Bow expedition ship with an average of 199…
- 9-12 Days
- $6,990
An extended voyage to the peninsula with 6 full days exploring the White Continent. Your comfortable 199-passenger ship will sail towards 66 degrees south in pursuit of the remote Antarctic Circle. An ice-strengthened PC6 hull allows your vessel to navigate…
- 12 Days
- $9,290
Encounter a diverse blend of history, landscapes and epic wildlife with an impressive 12 days of off-ship exploring the Falklands, South Georgia and Antarctica. A pre-voyage Santiago hotel stay and domestic charter flights are included for maximum convenience and value.…
- 23 Days
- $29,706
For wildlife and landscape fanatics, this comprehensive adventure includes the dream combination of Falkland Islands, South Georgia and Antarctica. Travel aboard a cosy 128 passenger expeditionary ship, undertake daily landings, with optional camping and kayaking for the…
- 21 Days
- $20,999
Aboard a cosy 128 passenger vessel, spend 7 days exploring the Antarctic Peninsula. This extended itinerary heads south with the goal of reaching the Antarctic Circle. There is the option to kayak and even camp out on select…
- 14 Days
- $11,299
An extended itinerary offering 6 full days exploring on the Antarctic Peninsula. You'll have time to really absorb the incredible glacial landscapes, unique wildlife & the history; whilst options for kayaking & camping offer another perspective.…
- 13 Days
- $7,799
Travelling aboard a cosy 128 passenger ship, spend 4 full days exploring Antarctica’s extraordinary icebergs and wildlife. Optional camping and kayaking are available on select departures, while Ushuaia hotel accommodation and a parka jacket are included in the voyage…
- 11 Days
- $9,299
Explore the White Continent aboard one of the polar fleet's newest additions, a state-of-the-art expedition vessel combining adventure with comfort. As well as being limited to only 130 passengers, there’s a wide range of optional activities on this classic Antarctic…
- 12-15 Days
- $12,395
Sail to the White Continent aboard one of the most luxurious ships currently available. Unsurpassed comfort and true 5* service are this operator’s hallmarks. From the discreetly attentive service and French-inspired cuisine to the beautifully appointed public areas, this is…
- 11-13 Days
- $14,933
Journey beyond the Antarctic Circle in real comfort aboard a state-of-the-art expedition ship. Spend an extended period of 7 action-packed days exploring the Antarctic Peninsula. Attractive comprehensive transfer package from Buenos Aires available on select departures. Wide choice of optional…
- 14 Days
- $18,990
Soak up the Antarctic Peninsula's spectacular wildlife and landscapes from the ultra comfort of a modern, luxury ship. Balance time exploring ashore with sumptuous relaxation on board, where the highly trained onboard team caters to your every need. With the…
- 11 Days
- $14,599
