3 major routes for Antarctic travel (Part 2): Triple-Island
credit: bbc.com
A round-trip cruise from Ushuaia, Argentina, takes 20 days and starts at US$20,000. The itinerary will visit the Falkland Islands, South Georgia Island, and the Antarctic Peninsula. Since one can see up to 7 species of penguins at a time, and the itinerary is quite rare, triple-island itineraries have always been in short supply.
Below we will use a 20-day trip to the triple-islands as an example to explain the daily activities in detail.
1. 20-day Itinerary Overview
credit: quarkexpeditions.com
20-Day Triple-Island Itinerary (Falkland Islands + South Georgia + Antarctica)
Day 1 Arrival in Ushuaia
Day 2 Embarkation from Ushuaia
Day 3 Sea Day
Day 4 - 5 Falkland Islands
Day 6 - 7 Sea Day
Day 8 - 11 South Georgia Island
Day 12 - 13 Sea Day
Day 14 - 17 Landing on Antarctica
Day 18 - 19 Sea Day
Day 20 Return to Ushuaia
The triple-island itinerary includes visits to Antarctica, South Georgia, and the Falkland Islands. After deducting the embarkation day on the first day and the disembarkation day on the last day, a total of 9 full days will be expected for landing. Assuming safety is assured, the captain and expedition leader will arrange for one landing, as well as a Zodiac cruise, each morning and afternoon, during each of the 9 days.
Therefore, a 20-day trip to the triple-islands can be expected to offer 18 landing opportunities.
2. Arrival in Ushuaia (Day 1)
Ushuaia Street Scene credit: tourscanner.com/blog/best-things-to-do-in-ushuaia/
If your cruise ticket includes pre-departure accommodation, the cruise line will assign a staff to meet you at the airport with a sign. Just remember to complete the online form and provide your arrival flight information to the cruise line before departure. Before boarding the cruise at between 2:00 PM and 4:00 PM the next day, you can plan the following activities in Ushuaia:
GoTierra del Fuego Parkand visitThe world's southernmost post office
Visit the filming location of Happy Together - World's Southernmost Lighthouse
Buy postcards from shops in town
Taste delicious King Crabs
3. Embarkation Day (Day 2)
credit: quarkexpeditions.com
In addition to using the daytime toTierra del Fuego ParkAnd visitThe world's southernmost post office,visit"Happy TogetherFilming Locations - World's Southernmost Lighthouse, in the shops in townBuy postcards, or tasteDelicious king crab.
As per the Antarctica Trip, the two most important things are Luggage Storage and Embarkation.
Luggage Storage:
Your checked baggage will be delivered to your cabin door by the cruise's staff. All you need to do is place it at the designated location before the designated time.
If your cruise ticket includes accommodation for the night before embarkation, you can leave your luggage in the hotel lobby before checking out on the day of embarkation, marking your cabin number. Otherwise, you will need to pay close attention to the pre-departure document sent by the cruise line (usually sent one month before departure), which will detail the location and time for luggage storage.
Embarkation:
Ushuaia has only one embarkation terminal for Antarctica, and all passengers must board the cruise using a shuttle bus arranged by the cruise line. On the afternoon of the embarkation day, passengers must meet at the parking lot in front of the "Ushuaia Fin del Mundo" landmark between 2:00 PM and 4:00 PM to wait for the shuttle bus arranged by each cruise line. If your ticket includes pre-departure accommodation, the cruise line will provide transportation from your pre-departure hotel to the parking lot in front of the landmark.
The relative position of the "Ushuaia Fin del Mundo" landmark to the pier
"Ushuaia Fin del Mundo" landmark credit: lalaviajera.com/ushuaia-fin-del-mundo-tierra-fuego/
After boarding the ship, the cruise will arrange a welcome ceremony and offer welcome drinks. After completing boarding procedures at the front desk (collecting room keys and linking credit cards for onboard purchases), passengers will gather in the ship's lobby to meet the crew and the captain. Furthermore, the expedition team will invite all passengers to the landing preparation area to try on polar coats (if provided) and snowshoes for landing.
Most departure times are at 18:00, at which time you can go to the stern and say goodbye to Ushuaia.
3. Sea Day (Day 3)
credit: fidc.co.fk
The Falkland Islands are located approximately 650 kilometers off the coast of South America and can be reached by cruise ship from Ushuaia, taking about a day and a half. During this time, the expedition team and experts on board will invite all passengers to participate in lectures on topics such as history, geography, and ecology, helping them gain a deeper understanding of the islands.
5. Falkland Islands (Day 4 - Day 5)
credit: fidc.co.fk
Landing Day Schedule
7am Wake Up
8am Breakfast
10am - 1pm First Landing
1pm - 2pm Lunch
2pm - 5pm Second Landing
6pm Daily Summary & Next Day's Itinerary Sharing
7:30pm Dinner
Because of the Falklands War, the archipelago has two names: the United Kingdom and other countries call it the "Falklands," while Latin American countries and China refer to it as the "Malvinas Islands." The Falklands actually comprise nearly 800 islands, large and small. The two largest are East Falkland, home to the capital, Standley, and West Falkland. They are separated by the Falkland Sound, accessible only by ship or plane. Typically, when Cruise operators can arrange two days of stay, and weather permitting, they will arrange landings at different locations on the East and West Falkland Islands.
credit: pinterest.com
Forty years ago, the Falkland Islands were the scene of a war between Britain and Argentina over sovereignty. Today, they are home to one million penguins, countless rare birds, and seals. Today, the islands' permanent residents are predominantly of British descent, and the economy is primarily based on sheep and oil. Here, you can witness how humans and animals live in peaceful coexistence, respecting each other.
Below, we'll tell you what you can expect to see in the Falkland Islands, divided into three sections: animals, history, and local life.
1. Five species of penguins and rare birds
credit: oranatravel.com
If you're a penguin enthusiast, the Falkland Islands will definitely satisfy your curiosity. There are 17 penguin species worldwide, and a trip to the Falkland Islands offers the opportunity to spot five: the Magellanic, Southern Rockhopper, Macaroni, Gentoo, and King Penguin.
credit: viator.com
These little cuties can be found at various cruise ship landing points on both the east and west coasts, including Saunders Island, Carcass Island, Bleaker Island, New Island, Weddell Island, and West Point Island. If time permits, during your visit to Stanley, take a jeep tour to Volunteer Point to spot the 1,000 king penguins that stay in the East Falklands each year.
credit: bradtguides.com
The Falklands' rich fauna can also be glimpsed from animals other than penguins. For example, Sea Lion Island, located southeast of the archipelago, is home to the world's largest concentration of southern elephant seals, with up to 2,000 seals gathering during the breeding season in October. It's also a great place to observe orcas and the soaring striated caracara. And if you keep a close eye, you might stumble upon the Falklands' unique Cocksbill's wren.
2. Economy and History
credit: navalpost.com
Throughout the history of Antarctic exploration, dating back to the last century, the Falklands Islands, not only the site of the world-famous Falklands War of 1982, but also a major hub for whaling and offshore fishing. Furthermore, the Falklands once served as a shipping transshipment and repair station, generating significant wealth. Although their importance has since declined with the opening of the Panama Canal, the islands' large sheep population has provided a vital economic boost, and recent oil exploration in the surrounding waters has also generated significant interest.
creit: coinworld.com
Cruise ships visiting the Falkland Islands typically spend half to a full day in Stanley, the capital. Strolling the streets, you'll find British-inspired elements everywhere: red telephone booths, a Victorian police station, and the world's southernmost cathedral. Coin collectors can also exchange Falkland Islands pounds for British pounds at a 1:1 exchange rate.
credit: commons.wikimedia.org
Historic Dockyard Museum is a must-see for visitors seeking to learn about the history of the Falkland Islands. It showcases not only historical materials related to the 1982 Falklands War, but also everyday objects and historical materials related to the ocean, flora, fauna, and geology. Despite having opened for just eight years, the museum's rich collection continues to attract visitors.
3. Pristine Living Environment
credit: modernfarmer.com
The Falkland Islands have a population of fewer than 3,000, about two-thirds of whom live in the capital. Their economy is simple, relying primarily on fishing, oil, and wool exports. Consequently, not only do every household know each other, but almost every resident is a slash representative: when the Antarctic tourist season begins, any cruise ship docking will be greeted by any family with a car; when the off-season arrives, everyone returns to their respective jobs.
The island boasts a comprehensive social welfare system, with free primary school and free medical care. University enrollment requires flying to the UK, but tuition is subsidized by the British government. This environment ensures near-unemployment, though a housing shortage somewhat limits immigration opportunities. Only with a secure economy can humans, penguins, sheep, and other animals coexist peacefully in this paradise.
credit: lonelyplanet.com
In summary, after choosing a triple-island itinerary, whether the Falkland Islands are arranged as the first or last stop of the three-island itinerary, the islands' rich natural ecology, historical buildings, and the simple atmosphere on the streets will leave a deep impression on your Antarctic trip.
6. Sea Day (Day 6 - Day 7)
credit: poseidonexpeditions.com/
South Georgia Island sits isolated in the Southern Ocean. A voyage from South America takes at least 4.5 days, while that from the Falkland Islands takes 2 days. Although not part of the Antarctic continent, it is often included in Antarctic Dual- and Triple- island itineraries.
During these four and a half days, the cruise line will use the various facilities on board to hold various lectures and activities, including but not limited to:
Lectures on the ecology, history, and geography of South Georgia Island by experts and scholars from various fields
Cocktail party attended by the captain
Group activities (e.g., group quiz and guessing games)
Check whether waterproof pants meet the requirements
Visit the Bridge
credit: poseidonexpeditions.com/
7. South Georgia Island (Day 8 - Day 11)
credit: twistedsifter.com/2018/03/king-penguins-on-south-georgia-island
Landing Day Schedule
7am Wake Up
8am Breakfast
10am - 1pm First Landing
1pm - 2pm Lunch
2pm - 5pm Second Landing
6pm Daily Summary & Next Day's Itinerary Sharing
7:30pm Dinner
After four and a half days at sea, on Day 8, we finally land on one of the highlights of this trip: South Georgia Island. South Georgia is not only a vibrant animal paradise but also a witness to many historical events. Here are three must-see highlights of South Georgia.
1. Magnificent King Penguin Gathering Scenes
credit: nomadasaurus.com
When it comes to South Georgia Island, the first thing that comes to mind is the king penguins, a primary incentive for most visitors. There are three locations on the island where you can picture these penguins: St. Andrews Bay, Salisbury Plain, and Gold Harbour. St. Andrews Bay boasts the largest population of the entire island, with at least 150,000. This unique sight is only available here, among the three Antarctic islands.
2. Follow Sir Shackleton's footsteps
credit: discover.oneoceanexpeditions.com
South Georgia Island has two most impressive historical events, the more well-known of which is Sir Ernest Henry Shackleton's Antarctic expedition.
On his third Antarctic expedition, Shackleton's original goal was to cross the Antarctic continent. However, his ship was crushed by ice as it approached Antarctica, forcing him to abandon the ship and leave his 22 crew members on Elephant Island near Antarctica. With no other options, he took a gamble and sailed his five-man crew across the treacherous Southern Ocean, 1,300 kilometers, to South Georgia Island in search of help. Their only resources were a lifeboat and the captain's sextant. After 15 days of struggling at sea, they miraculously reached South Georgia Island and, after a 10-day hike, finally reached the whaling station. After three failed attempts to return, Shackleton finally sailed back to Elephant Island on his fourth attempt, thanks to assistance from the Chilean government. He kept his promise and rescued all 22 men who had persevered for 102 days.
To fully experience Sir Shackleton's adventurous spirit, some cruise companies offer "In Shackleton's Footsteps" hiking tours, allowing visitors to walk 6 kilometers from Fortuna Bay over the mountains to Stromness, and relive the arduous final journey of Sir Shackleton to the whaling station for help.
3. Visit Grytviken Museum
credit: tripadvisor.com.tw
The second story about South Georgia Island is a little sorrowful.
In 1902, a Norwegian explorer discovered a beautiful natural harbor on South Georgia Island and named it Grytviken. However, his discovery brought devastation to the surrounding whale population: between 1904 and 1965, 150,000 whales perished in six processing plants on the island. These whales were used to make cream, soap, cosmetics, and even wartime explosives and rifle lubricants. Including the number of whales processed on ships, the total number of whales killed in this area is estimated to be 1.5 million.
This bloody and unbearable past is recorded in detail in the museum in Grytviken. Thanks to the efforts of many ecologists in recent years, after half a century, we can finally see orcas and southern right whales again near South Georgia Island.
From the aerial footage, you can clearly see the various processing equipment abandoned from the whale processing factories.
South Georgia Island's travel seasons follow the Antarctic seasons. The biggest difference is that each animal has its own breeding cycle. Below we will use animal ecology (penguins, seals, and albatrosses) as a classification.
1. King Penguins
credit: passportandpixels.com
Unlike most penguins, which have a distinct, fixed incubation period, king penguins' egg-laying season begins in November and continues until March of the following year. Therefore, no matter when you visit South Georgia Island, you'll have the chance to see the fuzzy, kiwi-like chicks and the proud, majestic fathers and mothers.
2. Seals
credit: passportandpixels.com
Early in the season, before the females arrive, everything is peaceful. But once the females arrive, the males become hyperactive and prone to runaways, desperate to find a mate. Seal numbers peak in the main breeding areas by mid-November.
3. Albatross
credit: oceanwide-expeditions.com
If you're an albatross enthusiast, you must note Prion Island. It's one of the few remaining colonies of wandering albatrosses and a breeding beach for fur seals, thus being marked as a special protection area. The area is closed from November 20th to January 7th of the following year, so be sure to visit after January 7th. At the end of the season, you will see albatross chicks hatching, getting ready for the coming winter.
8. Day at Sea (Day 12 - Day 13)
After three days of landing on South Georgia Island, we embark on a two-day cruise through the Scotia Sea. Because parts of the Scotia Sea overlap with the Drake Passage, rough seas are unavoidable. In addition to pre-packed seasickness medication, the ship's doctor will also prescribe medication to alleviate seasickness symptoms.
credit: poseidonexpeditions.com/
During these two days, the theme lectures on the ship will focus on the Antarctic continent, where we will land next. We will also invite expedition members or experts with professional knowledge to give lectures, so that all passengers can have a comprehensive understanding of the animal ecology, geography, and historical stories of the Antarctic continent.
In addition, the Sea Day is also a time to enjoy the delicious food on board.
credit: quarkexpeditions & atlasoceanvoyages & Silversea
Breakfast and lunch are usually buffet-style, while dinner is à la carte, with complimentary drinks. Meals tend to be Western, primarily because over half of Antarctic tourists are from Europe and the United States. Ships typically have a paid bar area, with unlimited coffee and tea available 24/7. Light refreshments are also available in the afternoon and during parties.
9. Antarctic Peninsula (Day 14 - Day 17)
Crescent Island credit: cruisemapper.com
Landing Day Schedule
7am Wake Up
8am Breakfast
10am - 1pm First Landing
1pm - 2pm Lunch
2pm - 5pm Second Landing
6pm Daily Summary & Next Day's Itinerary Sharing
7:30pm Dinner
credit: en.mercopress.com
There are over 200 landing sites in Antarctica. The captain and expedition leader will make the most appropriate arrangements based on current sea and weather conditions, with personal safety in mind. During landing, passengers will be divided into evenly sized groups of 100 people each, undergoing both landing and sea cruises. Each landing lasts approximately 1 to 1.5 hours. Cruise ships with a passenger capacity of 200 or fewer can expect approximately 1 to 1.5 hours of landing time; ships with a passenger capacity of around 100 can expect 2 to 3 hours.
Here are some common penguins, whales, and seals you might see on a single island trip:
1. Adélie Penguin
Adelie penguins credit: bbc.co.uk
Remember the penguins with Cuban accents in the movie "Happy Feet"? They were inspired by the Adélie penguin. As the world's most widespread penguin species, the Adélie penguin is also one of the three most common penguin species on the Antarctic Peninsula. It's primarily found along the Antarctic coast and on nearby islands, and can be spotted on a typical Antarctic island route. It's one of the few species with prominent tail feathers, and its most distinctive feature is the white ring around its eye.
2. Chinstrap
Chinstrap Penguin credit: grida.no
During the single-island trip, the Chinstrap penguin was the most frequently mentioned of the three species of penguins by the expedition members, and one of them was definitely the Chinstrap. It is the same species as the Adélie penguin and shares many similarities, such as its tail feathers and its black and white body. It can also be found on South Georgia Island. How can you confirm it's a Chinstrap penguin? Look for a black stripe below its neck and a solid black beak.
3. Gentoo Penguin
Gentoo penguin credit: news.stonybrook.edu/
The Gentoo, second only to the Emperor and King penguins in height, is the third most common penguin species in Antarctica. How can you distinguish it from its cousins, the Adélie and Chinstrap? Look for its bright red bill and the white eyebrow-like patch above its eyes.
4. Humpback Whale
credit: chimuadventures.com
Humpback whales, capable of consuming over 3,000 pounds of food daily, are a frequent sight on Antarctic itineraries. While humpback whales are known to suddenly breach the surface, during Antarctic Zodiac cruises, the only visible sight is their recognizable tail, which are unrecognized until the expedition team spots them and directs passengers to follow their gaze.
5. Crabeater seal
credit: www.greenpeace.org
Crabeater seals, which don't eat crabs, typically forage at night, with krill being their primary food. And even their specially shaped teeth are designed to prevent krill from escaping easily. Besides krill, they also enjoy eating fish. They are commonly found in the waters surrounding Antarctica.
The following are some common free or paid outdoor activities on various Antarctic itineraries:
1. Sea Kayaking (paid)
credit: polar-latitudes.com/kayaking-programs/
Besides landings and zodiac cruises, kayaking offers the most autonomy in your Antarctic adventure. Kayaking across the Southern Ocean not only brings you right next to zero-degree waters, but also allows you to get up close to animals—from sea lions nestling on the ice to whales suddenly leaping from the surface.
2. SUP (paid)
credit: kokatat.com
Want to freeze time in the present moment while floating in the Southern Ocean? Originating in Hawaii, SUP stands for Stand Up Paddling. With just an SUP board, you can safely paddle in various positions, standing, sitting, lying down, or even lying up. Experience the currents of the Southern Ocean up close, and witness the delightful sight of whales leaping from the surface.
3. Polar Plunge (free)
credit: quarkexpeditions.com
The most enjoyable Antarctic national sport - the polar plunge.
Whether landing, boarding a Zodiac, or admiring the Antarctic scenery from the deck, you always have to wrap yourself up tightly. However, when lining up for the polar plunge, no matter how nervous you are and want to back out, the cheers of your peers have a magical power that sends your adrenaline soaring, driving everyone to plunge into the freezing Southern Ocean without hesitation, feeling the exhilarating sensation of thousands of needles piercing your body.
4. Camping (paid)
credit: Youtuber - Kara and Nate
Unlike kayaking, diving, and SUP, camping takes place after dinner. Expedition members are invited to bring their sleeping bags and set off on a zodiac, enjoying an unforgettable night in the tranquility of Antarctica.
Passengers camping will typically need to carve out their desired snow bed within a designated safe area, using local materials and placing their sleeping bag and cushions. Some guests wonder, "Will camping in Antarctica be cold?" Don't worry, sleeping bags are surprisingly warm, and you can even put your jacket outside of the sleeping bags or as a makeshift pillow.
The following are some common landing points and highlights for a single island itinerary:
1. Portal Point
Portal Point is located in Graham Land, the northernmost part of the Antarctic Peninsula. It is the entry point to the Reclus Peninsula. Its surrounding mountains, glaciers, and ice tongues that extend to sea level make for beautiful scenery.
Cape Reclus Refuge credit: bas.ac.uk
In 1956, the British built a refuge hut here so that they could access the Peninsula Plateau through the nearby snowy slopes . Yet, the hut was dismantled in 1997 and is now housed in a museum in the capital of the Falkland Islands.The Three Antarctic Islands (Part 2): Falkland Islands: What are the other tourist attractions besides war?)
2. Graham Passage
credit: fineartamerica.com
It's located north of Charlotte Bay, the northern tip of the Antarctic Peninsula, a channel known for its narrow glacial channels. The nearby Murray Islands were listed as part of the Antarctic Peninsula when a Belgian explorer mapped it in 1898.
3. Cierva Cove
Summer research station at Sylva Bay
Cierva Cove, located in a protected area at the northern tip of the Antarctic Peninsula, is famous for its spectacular icebergs and snowy landscapes, which can often be glimpsed aboard a zodiac cruise. Near Cierva Cove is also the Argentine Summer Research Station (Primavera). The nearby waters are rich in krill, so there is an abundance of wildlife around, including penguins, seals, and whales.
4. Mikkelsen Harbour
The locked cottage at Port Mickelson
In fact, this is a small island, and there is no "port" as we think of it. In the 19th century, whalers used it to dock their ships for whaling factories, so besides seeing many Gentoo (Related articles:What are the most common penguins on Antarctic single island itineraries?) and several Weald seals, as well as shipwrecks and whale bones from whaling. There's also a locked hut.
5. Neko Harbour
A view of the Port of Neck (credit: en.wikipedia.org)
After landing in Neko Harbour, walk along the ridge, then you'll see a spectacular view of Andvord Bay. The Harbour was named after the "Neko", a whale factory ship that used to call here frequently.
6. Danco Island
Gentoo's sprint
Because there are many glacial crevasses in the surrounding mountains, the view from the top is spectacular. Danko Island is home to 1,600 pairs of Gentoo penguins (Related articles:What are the most common penguins on Antarctic single island itineraries?), they typically breed on higher slopes.
7. Lemaire Channel
Classic scene of the Antarctic Peninsula: Lima Channel
The Lima Channel, 11 kilometers long, 1.6 kilometers wide, and just 800 meters at its narrowest point, is one of Antarctica's most iconic locations and the filming location for the video featured on our website's homepage. For this reason, it's been dubbed the "Click Channel" by National Geographic. The perpetually snow-capped peaks lining the channel contrast beautifully with the vast ice floes that crisscross the channel. Every time we sail through this stretch of water, the sound of shutter clicks fills the deck. Furthermore, there's a high chance of sighting orcas or humpback whales while sailing through this area.
8. Port Charcot
A view of Charcot Harbor. Credit: natgeomedia.com
In addition to seeing many Gentoo (related articles:What are the most common penguins on Antarctic single island itineraries?), and a phenomenon that worries scientists: the thriving growth of red algae. Red algae can damage ice sheets worldwide, causing them to melt faster, leading to the gradual appearance of red snow and brown ice in Antarctica.
9. Deception Island
Steamy Deception Island
Deception Island, also known as Deception Island, has a landing point at Baily Head, located on the southeastern tip of the island. This is home to the largest population of Chinstrap penguins on the Antarctic Peninsula. According to data, there were over 50,000 pairs of Chinstrap penguins in the area in 2011. (Related articles:What are the most common penguins on Antarctic single island itineraries?) are reproducing, but their numbers are declining over time.
Whale Watching Station Ruins
Deception Island once housed the remains of a whaling station, and the remains of its oil refinery facilities can still be seen today. Due to intensive hunting, whale populations plummeted. As whaling became unsustainable, these facilities became a British listening station during World War II and later for scientific research. A volcanic eruption in the 1960s reduced these structures to ruin.
10. Elephant Point
Elephant seals that look like sausages
This is one of the most memorable landings on our Antarctic island trip. Located in the South Shetland Islands, at a relatively northerly latitude, the island boasts lush greenery. In the 19th century, this area was a prime seal hunting ground, but now it's become a haven for elephant seals, who can be seen everywhere, lying down, playfully, or even barking at each other at the slightest disagreement.
10. Day at Sea (Day 18 - Day 19)
After returning to the cruise ship on the afternoon of the 17th day, the captain will turn the ship around, and the entire crew will head back to Ushuaia.
credit: quarkexpeditions.com
On days 18 and 19 of the journey through the Drake Passage, in addition to a series of engaging lectures, there will be a Captain's Cocktail Night, an auction, and a farewell party for all passengers. The voyage's photographer will provide photos taken during or after the trip, but the wonderful work shared among passengers is also a must. Guests can use the computers in the common areas to exchange Antarctic photos and contact information.
11. Return to Ushuaia (Day 20)
On the day of disembarkation, before returning to Ushuaia at 8:00, passengers will enjoy their last Antarctic cruise breakfast on board before disembarking. The entire Antarctic journey will also come to a perfect end with a farewell high-five from the expedition team one by one when leaving the ship.
credit: annaeverywhere.com/antarctica-quark-expeditions/
This year's Antarctic promotions have been launched in waves. If you are interested in Antarctic itineraries, don't forget toFacebook, Instagram, or fill in the official websiteInquiry FormStay in touch with us.
Set foot on Antarctica. It's no longer out of reach.
Let's go to Antarctica!
Comments (0)