Explorers & Kings - Antarctica - 2012

on Shackleton's footsteps

From Ushuaia, we spent several days at sea and visited the Falkland Islands (Malvinas) and South Georgia before setting foot on the 7th continent.


South Georgia, often referred to as the Galapagos of the poles, is also steeped in the history of polar exploration. In 1916, Ernest Shackleton landed in South Georgia after an epic journey in a small boat to seek help for his companions from the "Endurance" stranded on Elephant Island, some 800 miles southwest of the island.


Heading southwest, we then reached the Antarctic Peninsula, a world of ice, snow and natural wonders where the weather allowed us to land on Elephant Island. 


The return to Argentina went through the Drake Passage, considered one of the most perilous voyages for ships.

Map showing cruise route from Argentina through Drake Passage to Antarctic Peninsula and South Georgia.
Red and white flag waving against snow-capped mountains and cloudy sky over water.
Close-up portrait of a grey and white penguin with distinctive markings.
Black and white penguin perched on rocky terrain against blurred background.
Dramatic sunset over dark ocean waters with vibrant orange clouds streaking across the twilight sky.
Black-browed albatross with white head and dark wings nesting with chick on rocky outcrop.
Black-browed albatrosses interacting on rocky cliffs in their natural habitat.
Imperial cormorant bird in flight over water with wings fully extended showing white chest markings.
Close-up portrait of a rockhopper penguin showing distinctive black feather crest and red eye.
Colonial buildings with white picket fence and Falkland Islands flag flying on overcast day.
Rural farm buildings and barns scattered across green hills with yellow wildflowers in foreground.
Historic red brick church with tall spire and arched windows on a hillside street.
Two rocky sea stacks silhouetted against a sparkling ocean horizon at sunset.
Interior view of a modern ship's bridge with navigation equipment and ocean view through large windows.
An albatross soars gracefully over dark rippling ocean waters with wings spread wide in golden sunlight.
Dolphin leaps through blue ocean waves creating splash.