Follow in the footsteps of the legendary explorer, Ernest Shackleton, on this epic boat expedition taking in South Georgia, the Falkland Islands and Antarctica. Perhaps the ultimate polar journey, this thrilling combination of destinations is not only perfect for any history enthusiast; it is also undoubtedly a wildlife lover’s dream.

The windswept and barren Falkland Islands come alive in the summer as tens of thousands of penguins come home to roost and raise their young. Southern Rockhopper penguins steal the show with their comical yellow eyebrows and fabulous personalities. Black-browed Albatross also nest here in their thousands, gathering on the hillsides and floating on the thermals rising from the ocean below. Meanwhile, on the beaches enormous southern elephant seals haul themselves ashore to rest in the summer sun. All this could be enough, but things only get more intense as you reach South Georgia.

As you approach this remote island you will see it much the way that Shackleton himself did, so little has changed since his time. The main difference is that the whaling stations now lie abandoned and rusting as they are reclaimed by the very wildlife that they sought to exploit. Seals and penguins waddle among the ruins while whale numbers are reaching new heights in the surrounding waters. Along the coast you’ll explore beaches where 400,000 breeding pairs of emperor penguins gather creating a sight, sound and smell that will live with you for a long time to come. You’ll also visit Grytviken, the resting place fo Shackleton and his trusty right-hand man Frank Wild. These two legends of polar exploration were at the centre of so many incredible stories, with that of the Imperial Trans-Antarctic Expedition of 194-17 at the very heart of it all, a story that will be brought to life by the onboard historian. Weather permitting you will also visit Elephant Island where Shackleton’s men all survived for 128 days under the leadership of Wild.

The Antarctic Peninsula is next on the itinerary and that holds many a wonder for the explorer. Huge icebergs will marshall your arrival into this frozen land while penguins can be spotted out at sea and on land as you get closer. The beauty of Antarctica is nothing short of mindblowing with sparkling ice, towering peaks and idyllic bays to explore. This land has a dark side too and the weather can change rapidly, giving you a sense of what it must have been like for those early explorers who were as far from home as the moon is for us today.

Travelling onboard an ice-strengthened ship allows you access to the remotest corners and with a full expedition team with a variety of specialist guides you will have access to a huge amount of information to delve into. So, immerse yourself in the magic of the Antarctic landscape, bask in the luxury of well-appointed cabins and exquisite cuisine prepared by renowned chefs. Each day promises new experiences and breathtaking vistas, making this the most special of high-end expedition cruises.

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Itinerary Highlights

Ushuaia

The world’s most southerly city, Ushuaia is an outpost like no other. Once a penal colony the city at the bottom of Tierra del Fuego still holds an almost mystical appeal. It’s here that you will board your boat and set sail for the Falkland Islands.

West Point and Saunders Islands

Landing in the northwest corner of the Falklands archipelago on these two islands is always a treat. These days West Point is uninhabited by humans, but is home to a stunning colony of rockhopper penguins and beautiful black-browed albatross. Having explored here you’ll sail the short distance to Saunders Island, keep an eye open for dolphins on the way. Saunders is home to around four people in the summer months which means you’ll be welcomed to the manager’s house with a traditional Smoko (tea and cake). Saunders Island has never been home to rodents or cats meaning the ground nesting birds here have really flourished among the tussock grass, which is also where you will find giant elephant seals.

Port Stanley

Visiting the tiny capital of the Falkland Islands can feel like a step back in time and with just 2,000 inhabitants there is a distinctly “English” feel to everything here. it is easily small enough to explore on foot from the museum to the Thatcher Memorial and the cathedral to the three pubs there’s more than enough for anyone to discover. The historic dockyard may well be of interest too as for so many years these islands were a stop off point for ships going round the horn of South America.

South Georgia

With three days to explore South Georgia, there is a huge amount to discover. This tiny island is often described as the “Galapagos of the Poles” and for good reason. Home to the largest population of southern elephant seals (which can weigh up to 3 tonnes), 3-million breeding pairs of macaroni penguins, over half a million pairs of king penguins, nesting sites for wandering albatross, sooty mantle albatross, fur seals and rich waters attracting countless whales each year it really lives up to its nickname.

Grytviken

Grytviken is perhaps best described as the “capital” of South Georiga although it is only home to four people who look after the museum here during the summer months. This abandoned whaling station is the only one you can really explore and puts into perspective the sheer volume of the industry that once wreaked havoc on the wildlife of the region. It is a truly humbling experience to walk among the giant vats that once contained the oil these hunters prized so highly.

It is here that Shackleton was laid to rest and no trip to South Georgia is complete without raising a glass to the Boss and his right-hand man Frank Wild.

Elephant Island

It was here that Frank Wild and 21 of Shackleton’s men survived for 128 days with no contact with the outside world and absolutely no knowledge as to when or if they were going to be saved. The story of how they got here, and their eventual rescue has gone down in legend, and will be retold by the historian onboard your ship as you visit key points of the epic journey.

Antarctic Sound

Antarctic Sound, located at the northern tip of the Antarctic Peninsula, is renowned for its dramatic landscapes and towering icebergs. Often referred to as “Iceberg Alley,” it offers a breathtaking spectacle of tabular icebergs that have broken off from the Larsen Ice Shelf. This remote and icy passage is a haven for wildlife, including penguins, seals, and seabirds.

Antarctic Peninsula

Known for its dramatic landscapes of towering glaciers, snow-capped mountains, and floating icebergs, the Antarctic Peninsula offers unparalleled opportunities for wildlife viewing. With 4 days to explore you will encounter vast colonies of penguins, seals lounging on ice floes, and majestic whales breaching in the frigid waters. Zodiac cruises and guided hikes allow for close encounters with the region’s unique flora and fauna. The sheer isolation and pristine beauty of the Antarctic Peninsula make it a once-in-a-lifetime destination for adventure seekers and nature lovers alike.

Itinerary Highlights

Our tailor-made journeys include

A dedicated Destination Expert who will curate your itinerary from scratch, tailoring it to your preferences + interests
Private + extraordinary under-the-radar experiences
Access to the very best guides + experts to bring the destination to life
Private international airport transfers in destination
The MyCazLoyd app to view your itinerary offline anywhere, anytime
24/7 support whilst travelling
ATOL protection to give you total peace of mind

Stand in the shadow of Ernest Shackleton

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West Pont Island, The Falklands

South Georgia

The Antarctic Peninsula

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SOUTH GEORGIA FACT

A successful campaign to irradicate all rodents from the island in recent years (following the removal of all the reindeer) means that this is one of the few places on earth that is host only to endemic species.

Itinerary Highlights

Ushuaia

West Point and Saunders Islands

Port Stanley

South Georgia

Grytviken

Elephant Island

Antarctic Sound

Antarctic Peninsula

Itinerary Highlights

Our tailor-made journeys include

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