
Getting to South Georgia Island
Deep in the Southern Ocean some 870 miles from its nearest neighbour, South Georgia is more challenging (and exciting) to get to than almost anywhere on earth.
A jewel in Antarctica’s crown, South Georgia is home to one of the greatest wildlife extravaganzas on the planet. This is the Serengeti of the South, with king penguins and seals in unimaginable numbers. Whether you're looking for the island home of the wandering albatross or following in the footsteps of Sir Ernest Shackleton, South Georgia expeditions offer truly unmissable experiences.
4.3 out of 5
Voyage south in Shackleton’s footsteps, exploring the highlights of the Southern Ocean as part of this ‘classic’ 20-day adventure. A well-balanced itinerary and the choice between 2 well-appointed expedition ships (capacity 128-199 guests) really marks this trip out. Plus, you…
4.5 out of 5
Looking for an Antarctic adventure without compromising on comfort and service? This stylish 139-passenger ship, with its cavernous suites, fine dining and compelling itinerary, offers a very polished Southern Ocean adventure, at a fair…
4.4 out of 5
This voyage stands out by visiting the Antarctic Peninsula first and keeping the wonders of South Georgia for the second half. Plus you’ll be travelling on board one of the most exciting new Polar ships with spacious cabins, state-of-the-art technology…
4.1 out of 5
With a good choice of departure dates through the season across four medium-sized ships, this 19-23 day trip stands out for its value for money and the broad range of cabin categories available, including Quads, which are…
An epic 23-day voyage which packs in an astonishing 7 days in Antarctica, 4 days in wildlife-rich South Georgia and the Polar Circle at 66 degrees south. It's very rare to find a trip combining all three places. Limited departure…
4.1 out of 5
This unique express trip saves time by flying to Antarctica, cutting out 2 sailing days and skipping the Falklands. Maximising your time amid the spectacular wildlife and scenery of Antarctica and South Georgia is the focus of this voyage. The…
King penguins at Salisbury Plain
Numbers alone fail to convey the sheer density of wildlife in South Georgia. Millions of seals, penguins and other seabirds make this sub-Antarctic island their home: at the height of the breeding season, there is said to be more wildlife here per square metre than any other place on the planet.
The bright and endless cacophony of South Georgia's king penguin colonies are one of the island's biggest drawcards, and the bird's unusual breeding cycle means that whenever you're on a South Georgia island tour you're guaranteed to see lots of woolly chicks. In other locations, other penguin species are to be found in large numbers: gentoos, chinstraps and macaronis with their luxuriant yellow eyebrow feathers.
On the beaches, seals gather in vast numbers. In the early season you'll see giant beachmaster elephant seals weighing in at nearly five tonnes. In the new year, the seas froth with new-born fur seal pups swimming around your zodiac.
The wildlife's lack of fear of humans makes them incredibly curious, so wherever you land you're never far from an amazing wildlife photo opportunity.
Toasting 'the Boss' at Shackleton's grave in Grytviken
The human history of South Georgia is tucked into its bays and harbours, where traces of the bloody plunder of the sealing and whaling industries are slowly being reclaimed as the island's wildlife rebounds from centuries of exploitation.
The rusting remains of the whaling station at Grytviken are compelling place to explore, along with its fabulous museum and old Norwegian church. Its cemetery is the last resting place of the polar explorer Sir Ernest Shackleton, and the traditional graveside toast to 'The Boss' is a touching moment for many visitors.
Weather-permitting, it's often possible to do the Shackleton Walk, which recreates the final stages of the epic hike from Fortuna Bay to the whaling station at Stromness that he and two of his companions made across the island in 1916 to raise the alarm after the desperate failure of the Endurance expedition. They walked from King Haakon Bay on storm-battered western side of the island after their voyage from Elephant Island – a landing here is a rare treat for Shackleton enthusiasts.
Which locations you visit depends on the weather and the season. With the exception of Grytviken, where alongside paying tribute to Shackleton you'll undergo essential biosecurity and immigration checks, it's impossible to guarantee where you'll land – but wherever you come ashore, the diversity of landing sites means you'll be visiting some of the spectacular places it's possible to see on an Antarctic trip.
From the vast colonies of king penguins at St Andrews Bay and Salisbury Plain, to Gold Harbour where the sun's rays bathe hanging glaciers in glowing yellows and oranges, the scale of opportunities for wildlife spotting and taking in the scenery is unmatched.
On Prion Island there are seasonal opportunities to walk near wandering albatrosses and their chicks, while at other locations you can zodiac cruise past the glaciers of Drygalski Fjord, or the sheer cliffs of Elsehul which are covered with the nests of tens of thousands of seabirds.
The anticipation of your first landing in South Georgia is intoxicating: seeing the beaches dotted with seals while penguins porpoise through the water, all set against a backdrop of snow-capped mountains and glaciers
Swoop Expert
King penguin chicks are present throughout the year
South Georgia's visiting season runs through the austral summer months from the end of October to late March. The weather is at its most benign (if still unpredictable), with snow-free beaches and long days offering the most favourable light for photographers.
Summer in South Georgia offers an ever-changing wildlife experience depending on when you visit.
Completing the Shackleton Walk on South Georgia
South Georgia is visited as part of a longer cruise visiting the Antarctic Peninsula and the Falkland Islands. On a once-in-a-lifetime trip like this, finding the right voyage is crucial, so you'll want to carefully consider both the itinerary and the type of ship as well as your travel dates.
A trip to the Antarctic Peninsula is going to be mind-blowing, there’s no doubt about that. But a trip to South Georgia is going to be like walking through a BBC wildlife documentary – it’s almost impossible to describe unless you’ve been there.
Nate Polar expedition leader
Daily landings and adventurous activities abound, but with the option of coming back to a more luxurious cabin, or your own private balcony.
This fantastic trip covers all the must-see highlights of an extended Antarctic expedition. With 21 nights aboard, you will venture far south past vast icebergs to cross the Antarctic Circle, before taking in jaw-dropping king penguin colonies in the…
4.3 out of 5
Voyage south in Shackleton’s footsteps, exploring the highlights of the Southern Ocean as part of this ‘classic’ 20-day adventure. A well-balanced itinerary and the choice between 2 well-appointed expedition ships (capacity 128-199 guests) really marks this trip out. Plus, you…
An epic 23-day voyage which packs in an astonishing 7 days in Antarctica, 4 days in wildlife-rich South Georgia and the Polar Circle at 66 degrees south. It's very rare to find a trip combining all three places. Limited departure…
4.4 out of 5
On a long voyage with so many days at sea, the journey is made more enjoyable aboard this comfortable, well appointed 4* ship with its capacious cabins and dedicated staff. Choice of 17-23 day departures per season, with optional kayaking…
Setting sail early in the season, be aboard one of the first ship's to head south as the Southern Ocean re-opens for business. It's a special time in South Georgia with the beaches packed with breeding elephant seals, while Antarctica…
Devised by a team with 50 years of polar expedition experience, from the balance of the time exploring each location, to the wealth of onboard expertise and thoughtfully designed expedition ships, this trip has a real ‘pedigree’. Explore with the…
Join this classic Southern Ocean voyage, with a choice of two 21-day departures in the season. Travel aboard a generously proportioned 134-passenger expeditionary ship, undertake daily landings, with camping and kayaking for the…
4.3 out of 5
Purpose-built to tackle polar waters, an eco-minded vessel makes the ocean crossing between Antarctica and the wildlife Eden of South Georgia as comfortable as possible. Traverse the breathtaking Antarctic Sound where huge tabular icebergs dwarf the ship and immerse yourself…
4.1 out of 5
With a good choice of departure dates through the season across four medium-sized ships, this 19-23 day trip stands out for its value for money and the broad range of cabin categories available, including Quads, which are…
South Georgia and Antarctic cruises on board the finest ships. Bright, spacious cabins, exquisite food, and the highest standard of service throughout.
3.5 out of 5
Focusing only on Antarctica and South Georgia, missing out The Falklands, this voyage is both rare and attractive. Sail first to Antarctica and then on to South Georgia at a time when the King penguins are in their greatest numbers.…
For a truly 5 star Southern Ocean experience, this is the voyage to consider. Cosseted aboard the most luxurious, all-inclusive expedition ships currently in Antarctica, enjoy outstanding cuisine, impeccable service and daily guided…
Travelling aboard a modern, luxury, custom built expedition ship offering cabins with private balconies, excellent amenities, speed through the water and outstanding food, all you’ve got to do is sit back and enjoy the adventure. The all-inclusive price provides very…
Combine the spellbinding wildlife spectacle of South Georgia with the jaw-dropping landscapes of Antarctica on this luxurious time-saving expedition. Cut out two days at sea by flying between Antarctica and South America in just two hours.…
South Georgia Cruises trips scored 4.4/5 from 255 reviews
South Georgia is really special. The fact that we missed it on our first Antarctic trip is the major reason we went back.
Travelled: February 2018
Cindy & Nor - Washington
The highlights were the Shackleton history and being able to stand on the top of the pass where the trio looked down on the whaling base at Stromness - their destination.
Travelled: November 2017
Neill - New Zealand
South Georgia was simply amazing and quite overwhelming in its abundance of wildlife and history. To have king penguins filled with curiosity and pecking on our boots was unexpected and something we’ll never forget.
Travelled: December 2015
Phil & Mickey - Australia
It was like being in a David Attenborough nature programme. It was amazing. At one point I was leaning over the side of a Zodiac with my camera in my hand & I actually said out loud: 'I don't want to go home'. Read the full review
Travelled: March 2023
Cecilia Griffin - UK
I describe this adventure as going to the moon and back. Of course, a trip like this is very weather dependent - but our weather could not have been any more perfect! Our expedition leader, Sarah, was determined to get us off the ship as much as possible. We had 17 landings and 2 cancelled landings, of which one was substituted for a zodiac excursion so we didn't miss the penguin colony. So you ask what was my most memorable moment - every day, every longing, every guide, every lecture was memorable. This was an otherworldly experience. Read the full review
Travelled: December 2022
Gerry Garber - USA
We discovered why South Georgia is called The Serengeti of the Antarctic! We were surrounded by hundreds of thousands penguins, fur seals, elephant seals to such an extent that it was sometimes too dangerous to make a zodiac landing as the wildlife on shore was too dense. The landscape and the true wilderness of South Georgia is breathtaking. Read the full review
Travelled: November 2022
Helena Polackova - UK
We experienced great albatross colonies and enjoyed seeing at least seven different penguin breeds throughout the journey. Birding and whale watching opportunities on and off the ship were superb. Read the full review
Travelled: November 2022
Helena Polackova - UK
So many once in a life-time moments. I loved the wildlife encounters: tens of thousands of penguins on the beach; interactions of penguins and fur seal pups. Amazing to watch a leopard seal hunt and catch a penguin. Who knew that icebergs could be so amazing and fascinating? Read the full review
Travelled: February 2022
Scott Hunter - USA
We saw seven different penguin species up close and personal. Five different seal species with amazing encounters with the apex predator "leopard seal". Watching a leopard seal hunt and catch a penguin was nature at its rawest and finest. We saw the complete circle of life from fur seal pups to the demise of a poor gentoo penguin. There were times when the water was boiling with fur seal pups frolicking in the waves. Read the full review
Travelled: February 2022
Scott Hunter - USA
One of my aims was to walk with king penguins and to see them in huge crowds. I did this. And to see king penguins on the same ground as sheep was just extraordinary. That moment in the Falklands is indeed memorable. Read the full review
Travelled: February 2022
Sue Gatenby - UK
10+++++! It was just stunning from start to finish. I had been to the Antarctic Peninsula in 2018 so knew about the peace, space, clear air, vastness and the gentoos. Being there again was truly special. Spending 18 days looking out at wonderful wildlife, vast areas of nothing except sea and icebergs, listening to informative lectures and being without TV/internet/phones was bliss. Read the full review
Travelled: February 2022
Sue Gatenby - UK
Having time to stand and watch animal behaviour was special too. We were very fortunate to see all the penguin species (except emperors of course). Seals we saw: leopard, Weddell, crabeater, elephant & bays full of fur seal pups. Whales were often spotted: humpbacks, fin, sei and one minke, I think. Too many bird species to list but getting close to an albatross chick trying to stretch its wings was special and I saw a caracara with a dead penguin in its beak. Yes it lived up to, and exceeded, expectations. Read the full review
Travelled: February 2022
Sue Gatenby - UK
Most memorable moment: the penguin colonies on South Georgia. Each time seeing the massive colonies on South Georgia I was blown away. It was beyond words. Read the full review
Travelled: February 2022
Ron Hart - USA
Most memorable moments: all kayaking, but especially through ice in Antarctica and coming upon a leopard seal on the ice. Stepping on to the Antarctic continent. Abundant wildlife in South Georgia. Stunning scenery Read the full review
Travelled: February 2022
Alison Collins - Canada
Except for seeing the emperor...we saw all the penguins. And the seals...so many. My favorite encounter was having a very curious penguin come up and bite my camera lens. Wow! Read the full review
Travelled: December 2021
Gordon Pickering - USA
South Georgia was the highlight with so much wildlife and the history. The museum in Grytviken and the church were also very interesting. All the penguins, thousands of them at a time, was very overwhelming at times. Read the full review
Travelled: December 2021
Gordon Pickering - USA
The scale and beauty of South Georgia and Antarctica was beyond my expectations. A humpback whale came near the ship to check us out while we were at anchor in Fournier Bay. The whale surfaced, blew, rolled and hung around the ship for quite a while before moving on. The clear water made it easy to see the whale just under the surface. Many good photos and videos were captured! Read the full review
Travelled: February 2020
Monica Scott - United States Of America
The wildlife in South Georgia was amazing! I would recommend everybody who makes the journey to Antartica to make sure that they include South Georgia in their itinerary. Read the full review
Travelled: December 2019
Jodie Pigman - United States Of America
The combination of the Falklands, South Georgia and the Antarctic Peninsula was terrific for the scenery and wildlife. It certainly met my expectations. There were lots of magical moments. Every day was full of anticipation and delight. Read the full review
Travelled: December 2018
Patricia Schenkkan - United States Of America
The South Georgia expedition was a superb experience in every way for my group of 17 participants (including myself). South Georgia landscapes and wildlife viewing opportunities are the best of the best in the Southern Ocean! Read the full review
Travelled: November 2018
Audrey Benedict - United States Of America
If you don't visit South Georgia you're missing the 'jewel in the crown'. When we did this trip in 2008 the expedition leader in her opening remarks described South Georgia as "the place where God goes for his holidays".
Travelled: February 2018
RSW & MW - United Kingdom
We would definitely recommend including South Georgia and the Falklands - whilst we weren't quite prepared for the days at sea to get between these places, they ended up being a wonderfully restorative part of our holiday.
Travelled: December 2017
Tish & Obadiah - Massachusetts
South Georgia was the highlight of the trip. Be sure to choose an itinerary that includes it and you won't regret it. Salisbury Plain and St Andrews were amazing. I also loved Deception Island - I would recommend doing the polar plunge.
Travelled: November 2017
Janet - California
Too many highlights to pick out one in particular, but South Georgia is a must do. Landscapes were simply awesome. The wildlife was much more plentiful than I imagined, also unafraid and curious.
Travelled: February 2017
Kay and David - UK
South Georgia was a delightful surprise – far more to offer than I could have imagined. I knew about the whaling industry & Shackleton but was thrilled with the number of kayak outings & landings we made here. The old whaling stations were particularly overwhelming & emotional.
Travelled: January 2017
Freda - UK
The king penguins on Salisbury Plain were something I've never experienced before - unbelievable; the wildlife was fantastic.
Travelled: March 2016
Glyn - UK
Review:
No. There isn't enough flat land on South Georgia to build an airstrip, so all visitors must arrive by sea. The closest airport to South Georgia is at Stanley on the Falkland Islands. Under usual sea conditions it takes two days to sail to South Georgia from either the Falkland Islands or the Antarctic Peninsula.
This will very much depend on which voyage you choose. Most voyages spend between 3- 5 days exploring South Georgia, while the maximum is 8 days. Four days is the optimum period, as it allows plenty of time to explore even under changeable weather conditions.
Prices start from around $10,500-$13,000/person for a Quad or Triple cabin or $14,000-$16,000 per person for a twin cabin, but vary markedly depending on the trip, ship, the timing of travel and which cabin category you choose.
While discounts are rare, those people booking early can sometimes take advantage of early booking incentives of up to USD $1,500 per person offered on select trips.
It takes more than a year for a king penguin chick to fledge, so there are chicks present on South Georgia all year round. If you're able to make a landing at one of the big king penguin colonies, you are pretty much guaranteed to see plenty of fluffy brown chicks, along with year-old chicks in the middle of the final moult into their adult plumage.
Macaroni and gentoo penguin chicks can generally be spotted in their colonies from mid-November, fledging from January and February respectively.
All cruise ships visit Grytviken to carry out immigration and biosecurity checks, so you'll almost always be able to land here to visit Shackleton's grave in the old whaling station cemetery: guides will arrange a toast to 'the Boss' here. The museum in Grytviken has plenty of interest for Shackleton fans, including a full-sized replica of the James Caird.
It is sometimes possible to do the Shackleton Walk from Fortuna Bay to Stromness, recreating the final stage of his epic walk across the island in 1916. On some itineraries, ships may also attempt to visit King Haakon Bay on the western side of the island, where the James Caird made landfall after sailing from Elephant Island.
See our Following in Shackleton’s footsteps on South Georgia blog for a guide to the sites associated with the great man.
It's never too early to plan your South Georgia trip. There are far fewer of these longer voyages than there are regular trip to the Antarctic Peninsula only. Because they're so spectacular, they're also in very high demand.
To be confident of securing your preferred choice you should start planning as early as possible, and ideally book 12 - 18 months in advance. Early booking discounts are sometimes available.
Voyage dates are typically released by the different ship operators between 15 - 20 months in advance.
Deep in the Southern Ocean some 870 miles from its nearest neighbour, South Georgia is more challenging (and exciting) to get to than almost anywhere on earth.
South Georgia is bursting with life throughout the cruise season, so choosing when to take your voyage will ultimately depend on what you want to experience on your trip.
Numbers alone simply can’t explain how extraordinarily abundant and breathtaking the wildlife of South Georgia is: this is the Serengeti of the Southern Ocean
Walk across South Georgia's spectacular landscape, go ashore to meet the abundant wildlife or learn about the island's rich history.
We'll spend some time listening to your aspirations, then discuss the kind of experience that might suit you.
Next we'll discuss the options, shortlist the best trips for you and present you our impartial recommendations.
We'll place a 24 hour hold on your preferred option - without obligation - whilst we talk through the details.
With over 50 years of South Georgia experience between us, we can help you to exactly the right trip for you.
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