[Full Image]

Falkland Islands & South Georgia

Falklands & South Georgia

The Falklands, an archipelago of some 400 islands, with thousands of penguins and albatross are a birder's paradise. Mountainous South Georgia is covered in huge glaciers, scenic fjords and alpine peaks. The highlights for many are the huge king penguin colonies, as well as the fur and elephant seals. The islands are also of great historical interest and you will learn both about the Falklands War and Shackleton's epic journey.

Antarctic Peninsula

Journeying south you reach Antarctica itself. Scientific research stations and abandoned whaling bases provide links to man's presence but the main focus is exploring the amazing scenery and wildlife. Get close to whales in your zodiac, bathe in the hot and cold water of Deception Island, be surrounded by penguins and watch vast chunks of ice calve off glaciers. Reluctantly you head into the Drake Passage to return to Ushuaia.

Polar Star ' About your cruise

Built for the Swedish Maritime Administration, the Polar Star is the first ice-breaker to be fully converted for expedition cruising. Carrying approximately 100 passengers the range of cabins and public rooms offer a high degree of comfort. There is a large observation lounge and open bridge policy. A full expedition/naturalist team on board will give talks on the wildlife, natural environment and history of the area. These experts will also accompany all our expeditions ashore which will normally be carried out in sturdy inflatable 'zodiac' boats. These expeditions will either land you ashore or will be water-based and will typically take place twice a day. Please remember that as this is an expedition cruise, the exact programme may well be varied to take advantage of good ice and weather conditions as well as the movements of wildlife.