This expedition odyssey takes us first to the Antarctic where fledgling penguins begin to assert their independence and all wildlife prepares for the coming winter. This is an extremely good time of year for whale sightings. From the west coast of the Antarctic Peninsula we head for the little visited South Orkney Islands and then on to South Georgia and the Falklands. It is an amazing voyage of history, stunning scenery, magnificent ice and fascinating wildlife.

In bustling Ushuaia, embark M/V Polar Star to set off along the Beagle Channel.

During these days at sea relax, attend lectures and spot wildlife from the bridge or deck.

Their volcanic origin provide black sands in contrast to the whiteness elsewhere. We plan landings at Half Moon Bay and Whalers Bay on Deception Island to look for penguin rookeries, seal haul out sites and countless seabirds.

Explore the peninsula area including part of the Weddell Sea to Zodiac cruise in the icy fjords and land at sites of historic and natural history interest. Penguins species to be seen include Gentoo, Chinstrap and Adelie and other species may also be found as well as seals and seabirds. Landing sites may include Paulet Island, Brown Bluff, Devil’s Island and Snow Hill Island.

During these two days at sea, we continue our lecture series and also hope for a landing at the remote South Orkney Island, home to Weddell, Fur and Elephant seals as well as an important scientific research base.

This short respite at sea is a time to relax, reflect, watch for marine life and attend lectures.

The experience can seem a bit unreal – walking amongst thousands of King penguins set against a dramatic snowy and mountainous backdrop. There is a multitude of other wildlife including other penguin species, seals, seabirds and whales. Planned landings include Prion Island, Cooper Bay, Fortuna, Stromness, Salisbury Plain and Grytviken where Sir Ernest Shackleton is buried.

Education continues while at sea and the sensation of remoteness and peace is poignant, feeling never alone on the vast ocean as seabirds wheel overhead.

There are plans to land at New Island and West Point after a port call to Stanley to complete the overview of the history and wildlife of these remote yet populated islands.

This final time at sea is just long enough for everyone to recap and gather thoughts and memories.

The voyage concludes in Ushuaia with disembarkation after breakfast.