When to visit South Georgia
Hailed as the Serengeti of the Southern Ocean, South Georgia is bursting with life throughout the cruise season, so choosing when to take your voyage will ultimately depend on what…
For sheer density of wildlife, majestic scenery, riveting history and remoteness, South Georgia is hard to beat in every single one of these categories. It’s one of the least visited places on earth, however the time and effort invested to get there is paid off with rich dividends.
4.8 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 3 well-appointed expedition ships (capacity 128-199 guests) really marks this trip out. Plus, you…
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…
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…
4.6 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…
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…
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…
At the height of the breeding season, there is said to be more wildlife here per square foot than any other place on the planet. South Georgia’s prodigious wildlife includes penguins, birds, whales and seals, and the numbers are absolutely staggering. Their lack of fear of humans also makes them incredibly curious, this is one of the best places in the world to be approached by an inquisitive penguin, or lolloping seal.
© Renato Granieri
The diversity of landing sites on this small island make it one of the more spectacular places to visit in Antarctica. From a colony of 300,000 king penguins at St Andrews Bay, to Gold Harbour where the sun's rays bathe hanging glaciers in to make them glow in yellows and oranges, the scale of opportunities for wildlife spotting and taking in the scenery is unmatched.
This is also one of the richest places for history - the sleepy village of Grytviken protects the grave of Sir Ernest Shackleton, and you can even hike in the man himself's footsteps on the Shackleton Walk, from Fortuna Bay to Stromness where he raised the alarm in 1916.
The visitor season is limited to late October through to March. During these months the weather is at its more benign, though still highly unpredictable! As a rule, November and March are chillier, but the softer light is favourable for photographers. More important are the nuances among the wildlife:
King penguin and a fur seal in South Georgia
As part of a longer cruise, most trips will also visit the Falklands and the Antarctic Peninsula, however, a select few voyages focus solely on South Georgia. On a once-in-a-lifetime trip like this, finding the right voyage is crucial, so to help you get started, here are a few tips on key areas you should be considering:
Kings penguins at dusk, South Georgia
Daily landings and adventurous activities abound, but with the option of coming back to a more luxurious cabin, or your own private balcony.
4.8 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 3 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…
3.6 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…
Designed by an operator with 50 years of Polar experience, from the balance of the 24-day itinerary to the wealth of onboard expertise and utilising state-of-the-art expedition ships, this trip has a real ‘pedigree’. Explore with the pioneers of Polar…
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…
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…
The ultimate Antarctic cruises. Bright, spacious cabins, exquisite food, and the highest standard of service throughout.
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…
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…
Functional vessels with heaps of character, trips aboard these ships feel truly expeditionary. Here, it is all about the quality of the landings, and expertise of the brilliant expedition leaders.
4.6 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 Cruises trips scored 4/5 from 11 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
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
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.
A crucial question for photographers in particular. As ship’s don’t suffer from the same weight limitations as airlines, there are no restrictions once on board the vessel. However, you need to check weight limits on the domestic flights, which are typically only 15-20kg for hold luggage.
The answer is ‘Yes’. The kitchens on all ships are very experienced at catering for all food requirements, whether you are vegetarian, gluten free, lactose intolerant, or just prefer to avoid certain foods.
The short answer is as soon as possible. There are far fewer of these longer voyages than the 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 then ideally booking 12 - 18 months in advance. Early booking discounts are sometimes available.
Voyage dates are typically released by the different boat operators between 15 - 20 months in advance.
Prices start from around $8,500 per person, but vary markedly depending on the trip, ship, timing of travel and cabin category you choose.
While discounts are rare, those people booking early can take advantage of early booking incentives of up to USD $1,500 per person offered on select trips.
It's a substantial investment, but in well over a decade of helping people experience South Georgia, nobody has ever been remotely disappointed.
Hailed as the Serengeti of the Southern Ocean, South Georgia is bursting with life throughout the cruise season, so choosing when to take your voyage will ultimately depend on what…
South Georgia is more challenging to get to than almost any other place on each, there is however a choice of routes for getting to South Georgia.
South Georgia may be a cartographic speck on the map and one of the least visited territories on Earth, but it's a true gem amidst the roiling southern ocean. Spectacular …
The lack of hotels and limited infrastructure on South Georgia necessitates visitors to be fully self-sufficient. Expedition ships offer both the amenities of a floating base …
Whilst a magnificent sea journey, the number of vacation days required to visit South Georgia can be a big constraint. Instead, reach the spectacular Antarctic Peninsula in just two days sailing, or two hours flying, one of the most accessible and dramatic places on the White Continent.
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 Antarctic experience between us, we can help guide you to exactly the right trip for you.
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