Antarctica, Chilean Fjords and Falklands – Great Explorers and Solar Eclipse

Fly early in the morning to Punta Arenas where the hybrid-powered MS Roald Amundsen awaits, ready for your expedition cruise to Antarctica.

With white horizons above oceans full of icebergs and whales, Antarctica never fails to inspire awe and wonder. Perhaps even more awe-inspiring will be your first encounter with the huge colonies of penguins.

Our Expedition Team will lead ice-cruising and landings at every opportunity to come ashore and explore the impressive Antarctic scenery. From deck, there are great chances to spot whales. Of course, this is true wilderness, so nature is in charge, but our experienced captain will work with the elements to create the best possible itinerary for your adventure.

We will attempt landings at several sites in the South Shetlands and on the Antarctic Peninsula and aim to bring you to the incredible diversity of landscapes and rich wildlife on display in this pristine wilderness.

Wherever we explore, the sights and sounds and of Antarctica are sure to stay with you for a lifetime!

The South Orkney Islands consist of four islands situated in the Scotia Sea about 600 km northeast of the Antarctic Peninsula. We arrive here in the very early morning to experience the Solar Eclipse, weather permitting. Our Expedition Team will be on deck to give out special-purpose solar filters which will protect your eyes while you observe the extraordinary occurrence. If your cabin faces the right direction, you can enjoy the event through the window, without even having to change out of your pyjamas

A professional astronomer will also be part of the Expedition Team for the full duration of the voyage, delivering a series of in-depth lectures and providing insights during the Solar Eclipse.

After observing the Solar Eclipse, we plan to explore the South Orkney Islands themselves. 85% of the islands’ surface is made up of glaciers, which make it the perfect home for various species of penguins and seals. We will do our best to navigate a route through the area’s icebergs, sea ice, and frequent mist.

After the wilderness of Antarctica, enjoy the contrast provided by Stanley, with red phone boxes, red buses and old pubs. The capital is a good size for roaming the streets on foot, or you can join an excursion to explore the wilderness and wildlife in the surrounding area. We will be docked here throughout the day.

The Falklands are teeming with wonders of nature, with fantastically clear blue skies, seamless horizons and stunning white sand beaches.

As we reach the westernmost outposts in the Falklands, you will see remote farms that have been family-owned for generations. Penguins waddle along the beaches here, often coming close to you to take a look out of curiosity, and even posing for photos! We plan to go ashore to explore the area on hikes and to spot some of the many bird species that live here.

We arrive back in Punta Arenas in the morning. After the flight back to Santiago de Chile, you can extend your vacation with a Post-Programme to Easter Island, famous for its mysterious statues of giant heads and a UNESCO World Heritage Site.