South Georgia & Antarctica Photo Tour With Paul Goldstein

Day 1

Join MV Magellan Explorer in Port Stanley

You will be picked up by a shuttle at the Port Stanley Airport and taken into town. Before boarding the ship, there will be opportunity to explore Port Stanley.

Port Stanley is a small town with a population of around 2,000 people. It is known for its colorful houses, historic landmarks, and charming seaside atmosphere. Visitors to Port Stanley can explore attractions such as the Christ Church Cathedral, the Falkland Islands Museum and National Trust, and the Battle Memorial.

In the afternoon you will embark the MV Magellan Explorer.

Day 2

Exploring Saunders Island and Carcass Island

Saunders Island is known for its beautiful long white-sand beach, which provides a stunning backdrop for the wildlife that can be found there. You can expect to see a variety of bird species, including rockhopper penguins, nesting black-browed albatrosses, and sub-Antarctic gentoo penguins.

In the afternoon, you will visit Carcass Island, which offers a different type of experience. The island is known for its easy hiking trails and the opportunity to observe a variety of bird species in their natural habitats. You may also have the chance to visit a local settlement. Whether you are interested in wildlife, hiking, or cultural experiences, there is something for everyone to enjoy.

Day 3

Landing at Bleaker Island

Bleaker Island is located in the Falkland Islands and is known for its stunning natural beauty and abundant birdlife. The island is a natural reserve, and visitors can expect to see a wide variety of bird species in their natural habitats. In the afternoon, you will be heading to South Georgia, which is located further south in the Atlantic Ocean.

Days 4 – 5

At Sea, Heading to South Georgia

With specialists in history, cetaceans, pinnipeds, ice, and photography, you can expect to learn a great deal about the natural and cultural history of the places you are going to visit. This knowledge will prepare you for your exploration of South Georgia in the next days. As you sail towards South Georgia, you will also have the opportunity to observe a variety of bird species trailing in the ship’s wake as birds often follow ships in search of food and shelter.

Day 6

Exploring Elsehul Bay and Right Whale Bay

You will start the day with a Zodiac ride along the fertile crescent of Elsehul. This natural harbour is known for its abundant wildlife, including seals, penguins, and petrels. The surrounding scenery is also stunning, with rugged cliffs and rolling hills providing a dramatic backdrop for your adventure.

In the afternoon, you will visit Right Whale Bay, which is known for its dramatic surf and photogenic landscapes. This landing can sometimes be tricky, but the effort is well worth it for the opportunity to explore one of the most beautiful and picturesque spots on the island.

Day 7

Visit to Grytviken and Fortuna Bay / Stromness

You will visit Grytviken, a popular historical site of South Georgia. After clearing customs, you will have the opportunity to explore the South Georgia Museum and pay your respects at Ernest Shackleton’s grave. The museum is home to a wide range of exhibits, including displays on the history of the island, the whaling industry, and Shackleton’s famous Antarctic expeditions.

In the afternoon, you will have the chance to see king penguins during your visit to Fortuna Bay / Stromness. This is an excellent opportunity to observe these majestic birds in their natural habitat and learn more about their behavior and ecology. You will also have the option to participate in a 2-3 hour “Shackleton walk,” where you can follow in the footsteps of the famous explorer.

Day 8

Landing at Gold Harbour and exploring Cooper Bay

Gold Harbour is one of the most popular locations for wildlife enthusiasts, with plenty of opportunities to observe king penguins, elephant seals, and hanging glaciers.

When you visit Cooper Bay in the afternoon, you’ll have the chance to see another type of penguin, the macaroni penguin. These birds are known for their distinctive yellow-orange crests and their energetic, jumping movements. They are a treat to watch in their natural habitat, and you’ll likely see them swimming and diving in the water as well.

Another day filled with wildlife viewing and beautiful scenery!

Day 9

Exploring St Andrews Bay and Ocean Harbour

St. Andrews Bay is another spectacular location for observing wildlife, with the largest king penguin colony and elephant seal bulls. The sheer number of penguins and seals is a sight to behold, and you’ll likely be able to observe them up close in their natural habitat.

In the afternoon, you’ll visit Ocean Harbour, where you’ll have the opportunity to see the remains of the whaling industry and a shipwreck. While the history of whaling is a somber one, it’s also an important reminder of the impact that humans can have on the natural world. You’ll also have a chance to observe any wildlife that may be present in the area, such as seabirds or seals.

Day 10

Visit Prion Island and Salisbury Plain

In the morning, we plan to land on Prion Island to see the nesting wandering albatross. These majestic birds are known for their impressive wingspan and graceful flying abilities. Observing them in their natural habitat is a truly awe-inspiring experience, and you’ll likely be able to see them up close during your visit.

In the afternoon, you’ll visit Salisbury Plain, another location with plenty of king penguins and stunning landscapes. You’ll likely have plenty of opportunities to photograph these beautiful birds, as well as take in the surrounding natural beauty.

Days 11 – 12

At Sea, Heading to Elephant Island

It’s always important to take some time to rest and recharge during an adventure. Taking advantage of the ship’s on-board presentation program and facilities is a great way to do just that.

You’ll have the chance to attend informative presentations about the wildlife and landscapes you’ve been seeing or participate in hands-on activities like photography workshops.

Day 13

Exploring Elephant Island

While a landing on the island may not be possible due to the challenging conditions, you’ll still have the opportunity to see the island from the ship or a zodiac if sea conditions permit. As you take in the stunning scenery of Elephant Island, you’ll likely feel a sense of awe at the raw natural beauty of the area. The rugged coastline, jagged peaks, and icy waters create a dramatic and breathtaking scene that is not soon forgotten.

Days 14 – 17

Antarctic Peninsula and South Shetland Islands

Cruising along the Antarctic Peninsula and the South Shetland Islands is an incredible adventure, filled with opportunities to explore some of the most stunning and remote locations on Earth. During your voyage, you may visit sites such as Gourdin Island, Brown Bluff, Half Moon Island, Deception Island, Wilhelmina Bay, the Lemaire Channel, Cuverville Island or the Melchior Islands.

Each of these locations has its own unique features and highlights. For example, Half Moon Island is known for its abundance of wildlife, including chinstrap penguins, while Deception Island is home to a natural harbor formed by a collapsed volcanic caldera. Wilhelmina Bay is a popular spot for whale watching, and the Lemaire Channel is a narrow, scenic passage between towering mountains.

Days 18 – 19

At Sea, Heading back to Ushuaia

As your adventure comes to a close and you begin to make your way north, you’ll have the opportunity to witness a truly remarkable sight: thousands of birds trailing the ship. From prions to pintados and petrels to albatrosses, these birds are a testament to the incredible wildlife that calls this remote corner of the world home.

Throughout this final leg of your journey, the staff on board will be on hand to ensure that your experience is wrapped up in spectacular fashion. Whether you want to learn more about the birds you’re seeing, take part in a final educational activity, or simply relax and take in the beauty of your surroundings, they’ll be there to make sure you make the most of your time.

As you leave the Antarctic behind and make your way back to civilization, you’ll carry with you memories and experiences that will last a lifetime.

Day 20

Arrival in Ushuaia and disembarkation

After almost three weeks of exploring the wonders of Antarctica, your voyage will come to an end with your arrival in Ushuaia. Disembarkation typically takes place in the morning, and the ship’s crew will help you with the logistics of getting off the ship and back to your accommodations or onward travel.

As you leave the Antarctic behind and make your way back to civilization, you’ll carry with you memories and experiences that will last a lifetime. From the stunning landscapes and incredible wildlife to the warmth and camaraderie of your fellow travelers and guides, this adventure will truly be one to remember.

You’ll have a newfound appreciation for the fragility and beauty of the natural world, as well as a deeper understanding of the importance of protecting and preserving these incredible environments. Whether you’re returning home or continuing on to other adventures, the memories and experiences of your Antarctic expedition will stay with you for a lifetime.