Falkland Islands Discovery - 10 - $5,397
Trip Summary and Itinerary Map
- 5 full days exploring both East & West Falklands
- Begins in Puerto Madryn & finishes in Ushuaia
- An authentic yet comfortable expedition ship capable of hosting 116 guests
- Complimentary wellington boot loan
Start from Puerto Madryn and end at Ushuaia
Landmarks potentially visited on Falkland Islands Discovery
Operator's Itinerary
Day 1: Sandy Argentine Beaches
You embark from Puerto Madryn in the afternoon, your prow aimed for the Falkland Islands. Golfo Nuevo is renowned for its visiting southern right whales, so you have a good chance of spotting one as you sail toward the open ocean.
Day 2 - 3: Sea Life, Sea Birds
Though you’re now at sea, there’s rarely a lonesome moment here: Several species of bird follow the vessel southeast, such as albatrosses, storm petrels, shearwaters, and diving petrels.
Day 4 - 8: Finding the Falklands
The
Falkland (Malvinas) Islands offer an
abundance of wildlife that is easily approachable, though caution is always
advised. These islands are largely unknown gems, the site of a 1982 war between
the UK and Argentina. Not only do various species of bird live here, but
chances are you’ll see both Peale’s dolphins and Commerson’s dolphins in the
surrounding waters.
During this segment of the voyage, you may visit the following sites:
Steeple Jason– Home to the world’s largest
black-browed albatross colony (roughly 113,000), Steeple Jason is a wild and
rarely visited island buffeted by wind and waves. Weather and swell conditions
dictate the journey here.
Carcass Island– Despite its name, this island
is pleasantly rodent-free and hence bounteous with birdlife. Anything from
breeding Magellanic penguins and gentoos to numerous waders and passerine birds
(including Cobb’s wrens and tussock-birds) live here.
Saunders Island– You can see the black-browed
albatross and its sometimes-clumsy landings, along with breeding imperial shags
and rockhopper penguins. King penguins, Magellanic penguins, and gentoos are
also found here.
West Point Island– This location is home to
black-browed albatrosses and rockhopper penguins.
Grave Cove– Nesting gentoo penguins and excellent hiking opportunities abound here.
Volunteer Point– A large white-sand beach, Volunteer Point is somewhat exposed but has a large king penguin rookery as well as other birdlife.
Port Stanley– The capital of the Falklands and the seat of its culture, Port Stanley has some Victorian-era charm: colourful houses, well-tended gardens, and English-style pubs are all to be found here. You can also see several century-old clipper ships nearby, silent witnesses to the hardships of 19th century sailors. The small but interesting museum is also worth a visit, covering the early days of settlement up to the Falklands War. Approximately 2000 people live in Port Stanley. Feel free to wander at will, though be aware that admission fees to local attractions are not included in the voyage.
Sandy Bay– The nearby Big Pond offers excellent wildlife opportunities, featuring dark-faced ground-tyrants and Magellanic snipes. There’s also an easy walk to see gentoo penguins, Magellanic penguins, rockhoppers, and king cormorants.
Sea Lion Island– This is a very exposed location, so you may need some luck to stop here. If a landing is possible, it’s well worth the trip: The island is home to the largest breeding colony of southern elephant seals in the archipelago, with approximately 2000 individuals on the northern beaches. A moderate walk will also take you to a southern sea lion haul-out.
Coffin’s Harbour– This area is a relatively short walk from the landing site at the New Island South Wildlife Reserve, providing views of nesting black-browed albatrosses and rockhopper penguins. A more strenuous hike to Landsend Bluff may also show you some South American fur seals. The site of the only land-based whaling station on the Falkland Islands is south of this landing beach.
New Island North– Landing at this nature reserve requires a special permit. If received, you can make a farewell visit to the black-browed albatrosses (among other birds) and South American fur seals that call the Falklands home.
Day 9: Sailing toward the sunset
As you sail westward, seabirds trail you all the way to South America.
Day 10: Earth’s southernmost city
You
arrive and disembark in Ushuaia, commonly held to be the world’s most southern
city. It is located on the Tierra del Fuego archipelago, nicknamed the “End of
the World.” But despite this stopping point, the wealth of memories you’ve made
on your Antarctic expedition will travel with you wherever your next adventure
lies.
PLEASE NOTE: All itineraries
are for guidance only. Programs may vary depending on local ice, weather, and
wildlife conditions. The on-board expedition leader will determine the final
itinerary. Flexibility is paramount for expedition cruises.
About The Ship
- A 3-4* expedition vessel for 108 guests
- Contemporary feel after 2009 re-build
- A quiet diesel-electric propulsion system
- 1D ice class rating
- Kayaking, camping, mountaineering, hiking
- Rubber boots are provided on loan
Prices, Departures and Inclusions
This trip can run as a group trip, with prices starting from $5,397 per person for a complete group. If you are looking to join a group or you are a solo traveller we will help to form likeminded groups of travellers. Please let us know your travel plans.
The trip can also run on a private basis to fit around your plans. Departures may be tailored and can be set up on a date of your choice. Please note that there is a higher price for smaller groups. Please enquire for further details.
Single Supplement And Child Policy
Twin suites may be available for single occupancy at 1.7 times the twin rate.
Includes
- Voyage aboard the vessel as indicated in the itinerary
- Accommodation & meals during the voyage on full board
- All shore excursions and zodiac activities
- Educational lectures by expert onboard guides
- Access to an onboard doctor and basic medical services
- Loan of rubber boots for the voyage's duration
- Comprehensive pre-departure information
- Port taxes & any entry fees to landing sites (except additional fees for museums in Port Stanley, Falklands)
Excludes
- Flights to & from points of embarkation/disembarkation
- Any additional pre/post land services, including meals
- Transfers not specified in the itinerary
- Optional adventure activities (e.g. diving)
- Visa, passport and any vaccination expenses
- Airport arrival or departure taxes
- Personal travel insurance
- Items of a personal nature - laundry, beverages, etc
- Customary staff gratuity at the end of the voyage
- Additional onboard purchases (i.e. gift shop)