Antarctica, South Georgia & Falkland Islands

Day programme:

Considered one of the wonders of the far Southern Hemisphere, the Falkland Islands overflow with natural beauty. The windswept green hills and clear waters lapping the white sand beaches could be mistaken for a much more tropical location.These remote and sparsely populated islands are a wildlife lover’s paradise. The world’s largest population of gentoo penguins is found here, in addition to king, Magellanic and rockhopper penguins. Up to 250,000 black-browed albatross nest in the Falklands, along with vast numbers of shearwaters and petrels. Fur and elephant seals roam sandy beaches, while the surrounding waters are home to whales and dolphins.Discovery: Explore by Zodiac, kayak or stand-up paddleboard with possible shore landings (weather and ice permitting).

Day programme:

Today we will call at Stanley^^, the capital of the archipelago on East Falkland. Since the 18th century, ownership of the Falkland Islands has been clouded in controversy with conflict between France, Britain, Spain and Argentina. Following the Falklands War of 1982, the islands have been part of the British Commonwealth.Today, the town has a distinctly British feel. Meander through its neat streets, visit the local shops and even stop at a typical English pub to share a pint with the friendly locals. The Christ Church Cathedral, with its striking whalebone arch, is a must-see.

South Georgia is a breathtaking destination of towering snow-covered mountains, mighty glaciers, and low-lying grasslands that attract an astounding concentration of wildlife. It is possible to find Southern fur seals, Southern elephant seals and a variety of albatross species including Black-browed, Light-mantled Sooty, Grey-headed and the spectacular Wandering Albatross, plus thousands of King and Macaroni Penguins. South Georgia is also linked to the early Antarctic explorers. Captain James Cook first stepped ashore in 1775, but perhaps more famous is Ernest Shackleton’s arrival in 1916 following the sinking of his ship Endurance. Shackleton’s grave and the whaling museum at Grytviken are highlights, as would be a visit to one of the King Penguin colonies at Salisbury Plain or Gold Harbour.

Day programme:

Embark on an extraordinary journey today as you set foot on the remote and awe-inspiring island of South Georgia. Be prepared for the unpredictable weather conditions that characterise this region, shaping your itinerary along the way. Rest assured, your Captain and Discovery Team leader are committed to providing you with the safest and most rewarding experiences.Prepare to be amazed by the abundant wildlife that calls this island home. From the majestic presence of thousands of king penguins reclaiming their territory to the sight of elephant seals and male fur seals staking their claim on the beaches, every moment promises unforgettable memories.Discovery: Explore by Zodiac, kayak or stand-up paddleboard with possible shore landings (weather and ice permitting).

South Georgia is a breathtaking destination of towering snow-covered mountains, mighty glaciers, and low-lying grasslands that attract an astounding concentration of wildlife. It is possible to find Southern fur seals, Southern elephant seals and a variety of albatross species including Black-browed, Light-mantled Sooty, Grey-headed and the spectacular Wandering Albatross, plus thousands of King and Macaroni Penguins. South Georgia is also linked to the early Antarctic explorers. Captain James Cook first stepped ashore in 1775, but perhaps more famous is Ernest Shackleton’s arrival in 1916 following the sinking of his ship Endurance. Shackleton’s grave and the whaling museum at Grytviken are highlights, as would be a visit to one of the King Penguin colonies at Salisbury Plain or Gold Harbour.

Day programme:

Beyond its remarkable wildlife, South Georgia Island is steeped in a fascinating human legacy. You may get the chance to pay your respects to Sir Ernest Shackleton, the renowned explorer, at his final resting place in the settlement of Grytviken^^. Here, you can also see the remnants of old whaling stations, with some ships left rusting around the bay.Back on board, explore some of Scenic Eclipse’s indulgent spaces, from the welcoming Observation Lounge to the expansive Senses Spa#. Soothe your muscles in the sauna or heated therapy lounge, join a yoga or Pilates class. Choose one of up to 10 world-class on board dining experiences tonight.Discovery: Explore by Zodiac, kayak or stand-up paddleboard with possible shore landings (weather and ice permitting).

South Georgia is a breathtaking destination of towering snow-covered mountains, mighty glaciers, and low-lying grasslands that attract an astounding concentration of wildlife. It is possible to find Southern fur seals, Southern elephant seals and a variety of albatross species including Black-browed, Light-mantled Sooty, Grey-headed and the spectacular Wandering Albatross, plus thousands of King and Macaroni Penguins. South Georgia is also linked to the early Antarctic explorers. Captain James Cook first stepped ashore in 1775, but perhaps more famous is Ernest Shackleton’s arrival in 1916 following the sinking of his ship Endurance. Shackleton’s grave and the whaling museum at Grytviken are highlights, as would be a visit to one of the King Penguin colonies at Salisbury Plain or Gold Harbour.

Day programme:

Fortuna Bay^^ is another potential landing site, subject to weather and ice conditions. It promises both abundant wildlife viewing and a wonderful panorama from the beach of jagged summit peaks and the vast Konig Glacier. It’s home to a large population of king penguins, Antarctic fur seals, elephant seals, brown skuas, giant petrels and Antarctic terns. This site’s varying tundra, curious penguins and seal pups will likely provide some of the best photographs of your voyage.The Polar Discovery Team will share their knowledge of these remarkable creatures and explain how important the landscape is for the breeding and survival of different species on the island.Discovery: Explore by Zodiac, kayak or stand-up paddleboard with possible shore landings (weather and ice permitting).

South Georgia is a breathtaking destination of towering snow-covered mountains, mighty glaciers, and low-lying grasslands that attract an astounding concentration of wildlife. It is possible to find Southern fur seals, Southern elephant seals and a variety of albatross species including Black-browed, Light-mantled Sooty, Grey-headed and the spectacular Wandering Albatross, plus thousands of King and Macaroni Penguins. South Georgia is also linked to the early Antarctic explorers. Captain James Cook first stepped ashore in 1775, but perhaps more famous is Ernest Shackleton’s arrival in 1916 following the sinking of his ship Endurance. Shackleton’s grave and the whaling museum at Grytviken are highlights, as would be a visit to one of the King Penguin colonies at Salisbury Plain or Gold Harbour.

Day programme:

Enjoy one more day exploring the awe-inspiring beauty of South Georgia, where nature's grandeur unfolds in dramatic landscapes unlike anywhere else. Picture yourself amidst a mountainous island rising majestically from the sea, adorned with pristine snow and glistening glaciers. Get your camera and binoculars ready, as you may have the chance to witness incredible scenes unfolding before your eyes.Discovery: When enjoying daily Scenic Discovery excursions, ask for your expert Polar Discovery Leader for photography tips and guidance on how to spot the wildlife around you. They will help you immortalise these incredible moments while cruising on the Zodiacs, kayaking and stand-up paddleboarding around impressive ice formations.

Remote and otherworldly, Antarctic is irresistible for its spectacular iceberg sculptures and calving glaciers, and for the possibility of up-close encounters with marine mammals and the iconic penguins. The Antarctic Peninsula – the main peninsula closest to South America – has a human history of almost 200 years, with explorers, sealers, whalers, and scientists who have come to work, and eventually intrepid visitors coming to enjoy this pristine and remote wilderness. It is a region of protected bays, unscaled snow-capped mountains, vast glaciers and a few places where whalers or scientists have worked. Just as irresistible are the many Gentoo and Chinstrap Penguin colonies, the seals basking on ice floes, the whales and orcas.

Day programme:

Arriving in Antarctica for the first time is unlike anything you have experienced before. Welcome to a challenging, unpredictable and stunningly beautiful environment that always finds a way to surprise you. Step out onto your private verandah and see icebergs towering out of the ocean thousands of metres tall. Enjoy the daily search for penguins, seals and whales.Due to the extraordinary nature of the region, your itinerary is open and dependent on the ice and weather conditions. Your experienced Captain and specialist Polar Discovery Team will use their expertise to design your voyage from day to day, making the most of 18–20 hours of daylight.Discovery: Explore by Zodiac, kayak or stand-up paddleboard with possible shore landings (weather and ice permitting).

Remote and otherworldly, Antarctic is irresistible for its spectacular iceberg sculptures and calving glaciers, and for the possibility of up-close encounters with marine mammals and the iconic penguins. The Antarctic Peninsula – the main peninsula closest to South America – has a human history of almost 200 years, with explorers, sealers, whalers, and scientists who have come to work, and eventually intrepid visitors coming to enjoy this pristine and remote wilderness. It is a region of protected bays, unscaled snow-capped mountains, vast glaciers and a few places where whalers or scientists have worked. Just as irresistible are the many Gentoo and Chinstrap Penguin colonies, the seals basking on ice floes, the whales and orcas.

Day programme:

Remarkable wildlife encounters await during your time exploring Antarctica. Various species of penguins can be found here, with around twelve million penguins living on the Peninsula. Going ashore to visit a penguin colony is an unforgettable experience. Watch the sea for humpback, blue, fin and minke whales, as well as the distinctive black and white orcas.At the heart of your Antarctic Voyage is the Polar Discovery Team of up to 20 leading experts with diverse qualifications, from science to geology, botany, history, photography, marine biology and glaciology. They will answer your most curious questions and be with you throughout every moment of your journey.Discovery: Explore by Zodiac, kayak or stand-up paddleboard with possible shore landings (weather and ice permitting).

Remote and otherworldly, Antarctic is irresistible for its spectacular iceberg sculptures and calving glaciers, and for the possibility of up-close encounters with marine mammals and the iconic penguins. The Antarctic Peninsula – the main peninsula closest to South America – has a human history of almost 200 years, with explorers, sealers, whalers, and scientists who have come to work, and eventually intrepid visitors coming to enjoy this pristine and remote wilderness. It is a region of protected bays, unscaled snow-capped mountains, vast glaciers and a few places where whalers or scientists have worked. Just as irresistible are the many Gentoo and Chinstrap Penguin colonies, the seals basking on ice floes, the whales and orcas.

Day programme:

Today you may land at Portal Point^^. Previously a British refuge hut, you will get the opportunity to walk up to see panoramic views from the snow-covered mountains surrounding you, looking over the ice filled ocean back to the ship that made all this possible. Sit down in the snow and take a moment to be still in the enormity of this place.There are endless ways to experience Antarctica. You may be on Scenic Eclipse, watching from the comfort of the Observation Lounge, in a Zodiac with an experienced Polar Discovery Team member, or immersed in the environment in a kayak or stand-up paddleboard.Discovery: Explore by Zodiac, kayak or stand-up paddleboard with possible shore landings (weather and ice permitting).

Remote and otherworldly, Antarctic is irresistible for its spectacular iceberg sculptures and calving glaciers, and for the possibility of up-close encounters with marine mammals and the iconic penguins. The Antarctic Peninsula – the main peninsula closest to South America – has a human history of almost 200 years, with explorers, sealers, whalers, and scientists who have come to work, and eventually intrepid visitors coming to enjoy this pristine and remote wilderness. It is a region of protected bays, unscaled snow-capped mountains, vast glaciers and a few places where whalers or scientists have worked. Just as irresistible are the many Gentoo and Chinstrap Penguin colonies, the seals basking on ice floes, the whales and orcas.

Day programme:

Be sure to pack your swimmers, because today you could be going for a swim. For many, the polar plunge is a once in a lifetime opportunity and a rite of passage for an expedition to Antarctica. Once throughout your voyage, Scenic Eclipse will stop and the team will set up the marina ready for the brave people who want to jump into the freezing Antarctic waters. Invigorating, exciting, and surprisingly refreshing.If you choose to skip the polar plunge, make sure you find a good viewing location as you feel the chills of everyone coming out of the water. Join them for a cup of hot chocolate or toast with a glass of whisky.Discovery: Explore by Zodiac, kayak or stand-up paddleboard with possible shore landings (weather and ice permitting).

Remote and otherworldly, Antarctic is irresistible for its spectacular iceberg sculptures and calving glaciers, and for the possibility of up-close encounters with marine mammals and the iconic penguins. The Antarctic Peninsula – the main peninsula closest to South America – has a human history of almost 200 years, with explorers, sealers, whalers, and scientists who have come to work, and eventually intrepid visitors coming to enjoy this pristine and remote wilderness. It is a region of protected bays, unscaled snow-capped mountains, vast glaciers and a few places where whalers or scientists have worked. Just as irresistible are the many Gentoo and Chinstrap Penguin colonies, the seals basking on ice floes, the whales and orcas.

Day programme:

Lemaire Channel^^, renowned for its picturesque views and often referred to as 'Kodak Alley', could be our next exciting destination. Or you may visit Deception Island^^ as part of your itinerary. Nestled in the South Shetland Islands archipelago, it is one of the only places in the world that ships can sail directly into the centre of a submerged caldera of an active volcano.In the distance on a clear day you can see Mount Francis ^^ standing tall as Anvers Island's highest peak, showcasing the rugged beauty of Antarctica. Every day is unique, you might get the chance to hike or spend time on the pebbled beach, enjoying the view surrounded by curious penguins.Discovery: Explore by Zodiac, kayak or stand-up paddleboard with possible shore landings (weather and ice permitting).

At 55 degrees latitude south, Ushuaia (pronounced oo-swy-ah) is closer to the South Pole than to Argentina’s northern border with Bolivia. It is the capital and tourism base for Tierra del Fuego, the island at the southernmost tip of Argentina.Although its stark physical beauty is striking, Tierra del Fuego’s historical allure is based more on its mythical past than on rugged reality. The island was inhabited for 6,000 years by Yámana, Haush, Selk’nam, and Alakaluf Indians. But in 1902 Argentina, eager to populate Patagonia to bolster its territorial claims, moved to initiate an Ushuaian penal colony, establishing the permanent settlement of its most southern territories and, by implication, everything in between.When the prison closed in 1947, Ushuaia had a population of about 3,000, made up mainly of former inmates and prison staff. Today the Indians of Darwin’s “missing link” theory are long gone—wiped out by diseases brought by settlers and by indifference to their plight—and the 60,000 residents of Ushuaia are hitching their star to tourism.The city rightly (if perhaps too loudly) promotes itself as the southernmost city in the world (Puerto Williams, a few miles south on the Chilean side of the Beagle Channel, is a small town). You can make your way to the tourism office to get your clichéd, but oh-so-necessary, “Southernmost City in the World” passport stamp. Ushuaia feels like a frontier boomtown, at heart still a rugged, weather-beaten fishing village, but exhibiting the frayed edges of a city that quadrupled in size in the ’70s and ’80s and just keeps growing. Unpaved portions of Ruta 3, the last stretch of the Pan-American Highway, which connects Alaska to Tierra del Fuego, are finally being paved. The summer months (December through March) draw more than 120,000 visitors, and dozens of cruise ships. The city is trying to extend those visits with events like March’s Marathon at the End of the World and by increasing the gamut of winter activities buoyed by the excellent snow conditions.A terrific trail winds through the town up to the Martial Glacier, where a ski lift can help cut down a steep kilometer of your journey. The chaotic and contradictory urban landscape includes a handful of luxury hotels amid the concrete of public housing projects. Scores of “sled houses” (wooden shacks) sit precariously on upright piers, ready for speedy displacement to a different site. But there are also many small, picturesque homes with tiny, carefully tended gardens. Many of the newer homes are built in a Swiss-chalet style, reinforcing the idea that this is a town into which tourism has breathed new life. At the same time, the weather-worn pastel colors that dominate the town’s landscape remind you that Ushuaia was once just a tiny fishing village, snuggled at the end of the Earth.As you stand on the banks of the Canal Beagle (Beagle Channel) near Ushuaia, the spirit of the farthest corner of the world takes hold. What stands out is the light: at sundown the landscape is cast in a subdued, sensual tone; everything feels closer, softer, and more human in dimension despite the vastness of the setting. The snowcapped mountains reflect the setting sun back onto a stream rolling into the channel, as nearby peaks echo their image—on a windless day—in the still waters.Above the city rise the last mountains of the Andean Cordillera, and just south and west of Ushuaia they finally vanish into the often-stormy sea. Snow whitens the peaks well into summer. Nature is the principal attraction here, with trekking, fishing, horseback riding, wildlife spotting, and sailing among the most rewarding activities, especially in the Parque Nacional Tierra del Fuego (Tierra del Fuego National Park).

At 55 degrees latitude south, Ushuaia (pronounced oo-swy-ah) is closer to the South Pole than to Argentina’s northern border with Bolivia. It is the capital and tourism base for Tierra del Fuego, the island at the southernmost tip of Argentina.Although its stark physical beauty is striking, Tierra del Fuego’s historical allure is based more on its mythical past than on rugged reality. The island was inhabited for 6,000 years by Yámana, Haush, Selk’nam, and Alakaluf Indians. But in 1902 Argentina, eager to populate Patagonia to bolster its territorial claims, moved to initiate an Ushuaian penal colony, establishing the permanent settlement of its most southern territories and, by implication, everything in between.When the prison closed in 1947, Ushuaia had a population of about 3,000, made up mainly of former inmates and prison staff. Today the Indians of Darwin’s “missing link” theory are long gone—wiped out by diseases brought by settlers and by indifference to their plight—and the 60,000 residents of Ushuaia are hitching their star to tourism.The city rightly (if perhaps too loudly) promotes itself as the southernmost city in the world (Puerto Williams, a few miles south on the Chilean side of the Beagle Channel, is a small town). You can make your way to the tourism office to get your clichéd, but oh-so-necessary, “Southernmost City in the World” passport stamp. Ushuaia feels like a frontier boomtown, at heart still a rugged, weather-beaten fishing village, but exhibiting the frayed edges of a city that quadrupled in size in the ’70s and ’80s and just keeps growing. Unpaved portions of Ruta 3, the last stretch of the Pan-American Highway, which connects Alaska to Tierra del Fuego, are finally being paved. The summer months (December through March) draw more than 120,000 visitors, and dozens of cruise ships. The city is trying to extend those visits with events like March’s Marathon at the End of the World and by increasing the gamut of winter activities buoyed by the excellent snow conditions.A terrific trail winds through the town up to the Martial Glacier, where a ski lift can help cut down a steep kilometer of your journey. The chaotic and contradictory urban landscape includes a handful of luxury hotels amid the concrete of public housing projects. Scores of “sled houses” (wooden shacks) sit precariously on upright piers, ready for speedy displacement to a different site. But there are also many small, picturesque homes with tiny, carefully tended gardens. Many of the newer homes are built in a Swiss-chalet style, reinforcing the idea that this is a town into which tourism has breathed new life. At the same time, the weather-worn pastel colors that dominate the town’s landscape remind you that Ushuaia was once just a tiny fishing village, snuggled at the end of the Earth.As you stand on the banks of the Canal Beagle (Beagle Channel) near Ushuaia, the spirit of the farthest corner of the world takes hold. What stands out is the light: at sundown the landscape is cast in a subdued, sensual tone; everything feels closer, softer, and more human in dimension despite the vastness of the setting. The snowcapped mountains reflect the setting sun back onto a stream rolling into the channel, as nearby peaks echo their image—on a windless day—in the still waters.Above the city rise the last mountains of the Andean Cordillera, and just south and west of Ushuaia they finally vanish into the often-stormy sea. Snow whitens the peaks well into summer. Nature is the principal attraction here, with trekking, fishing, horseback riding, wildlife spotting, and sailing among the most rewarding activities, especially in the Parque Nacional Tierra del Fuego (Tierra del Fuego National Park).

Day programme:

Your voyage ends this morning as you farewell the crew and fellow guests. Disembark after breakfast to fly to Buenos Aires, taking away memories of a truly unforgettable experience.   Please book your flight to depart out of Buenos Aires after 08:00 PM.The itinerary is a guide only and may be amended for operational reasons. As such Scenic cannot guarantee the voyage will operate unaltered from the itinerary stated above. Please refer to our terms and conditions for further information.^ Reservation Required^^Subject to weather and operational conditions. Sightings cannot be guaranteed.^Flights on board our two helicopters and submersible experiences are at additional cost, subject to regulatory approval, availability, weight restrictions, medical approval and weather, ice and tidal conditions. Helicopter not available in South Georgia. #Spa treatments at additional cost. +All drinks on board, including those stocked in your mini bar, are included, except for a very small number of rare, fine and vintage wines, Champagnes and spirits.

Glamorous and gritty, Buenos Aires is two cities in one. What makes Argentina’s capital so fascinating is its dual heritage—part European, part Latin American. Plaza de Mayo resembles a grand square in Madrid, and the ornate Teatro Colón would not be out of place in Vienna. But you’ll know you’re in South America by the leather shoes for sale on cobbled streets and impromptu parades of triumphant soccer fans. Limited-production wines, juicy steaks, and ice cream in countless flavors are among the old-world imports the city has perfected.