The fascinating history, unparalleled abundance of wildlife and dramatic scenery make South Georgia Island a popular stop for travellers on their way to Antarctica.
To visit the small and remote archipelago of the South Georgia Islands is to get a front row seat at the greatest wildlife show on the planet, with thousands of king penguins, seals and sea birds that defy belief performing in unison on stage. And what a stage – picture white sandy beaches and rugged coves against a backdrop of glaciers, fjords and formidable snow-capped mountains. It’s no wonder South Georgia is often called the “Galapagos of the South”.
On a South Georgia expedition, Zodiac cruise past towering glaciers and jaw-dropping icebergs to sandy beaches dotted with relics from South Georgia’s dark whaling past. Stretch your legs on sandy beaches crowded with king penguins, battling bull elephant seals and fur seals playing in the surf. Retrace Shackleton’s footsteps as his incredible tale of survival is brought to life by expert guides. Most South Georgia cruises form part of a longer expedition to the Antarctic Peninsula or the historic Falkland Islands.
South Georgia Expeditions
South Georgia Wildlife Experiences
Known as the “Galapagos of the South”, South Georgia boasts unparalleled wildlife. In fact, it has been estimated there is more wildlife per square metre in South Georgia at the peak of the breeding season than anywhere else on earth.
King Penguins
Feel profoundly outnumbered by hundreds of thousands of dignified king penguins taking over every last inch of real estate on sandy beaches. Be warned, the noise can be deafening! Keep your eyes peeled for macaroni, chinstrap and gentoo penguins – if you’re lucky you will spot all four species on your South Georgia trip.
Fur Seals
In the early 19th century, Antarctic fur seals were hunted to the brink of extinction. Today, they are thriving and the vast majority of the world’s population can be found on South Georgia Island. Admire their resiliency and playful nature as they show off in the water. In November and December, the beaches are packed with males fighting over breeding territory.
Sea Birds
In addition to being home to the largest king penguin colonies on the planet, wildlife-rich South Georgia hosts millions of Antarctic fur seals and elephant seals, which congregate on its beaches. Located southeast of the Falkland Islands and northeast of the Antarctic Peninsula, these islands are a popular destination for bird watchers and wildlife enthusiasts alike. A South Georgia voyage offers a unique opportunity to observe over 30 million breeding pairs of seabirds, including albatrosses and petrels, flock to the island.
Elephant Seals
Half of the world’s elephant seals can be found in or around this unique archipelago. If you embark on one of our October South Georgia trips at the start of the season, you can witness the spectacle of bull elephant seals coming to shore to fight over harems of females. They court as many as they can manage, continuously being challenged by other males. The resulting pups start appearing in November.
Unique South Georgia Cruise Experiences
Shackelton's Crossing
History buffs will relish learning about Shackleton’s ill-fated expedition as they visit South Georgia and cruise the waters made famous by him. Adventurous spirits can even retrace the final leg of his journey across the spine of South Georgia, on a trek of up to three days that’s not for the faint-hearted – this add-on activity is recommended for expeditioners with alpine trekking or mountaineering experience.
When Shackleton died in 1922, his widow insisted that he be buried at the former whaling station at Grytviken on South Georgia. If conditions allow, visit his final resting place, as well as remnants of South Georgia’s thriving whaling stations.
On the Water
There are countless opportunities for Zodiac-cruising on your South Georgia cruise. Your experienced driver will navigate craggy coves and hug rocky coastlines in search of penguins, seal haul-outs and bird cliffs. Be transported to beaches where you can get a closer look at king penguin colonies, take a guided walk among fur seals and elephant seals, hike along cliff tops to observe albatrosses breeding, or explore South Georgia’s grassy glacial outwash plains.
In the Water
South Georgia’s kelp forests are mesmerising – explore these underwater ecosystems up close by snorkelling or scuba diving, or watch the fronds swaying back and forth on the water’s surface as you Zodiac cruise or kayak above them.
On the Ship
Back onboard the ship, cruise through fjords hemmed by towering cliffs, or into deep bays with dramatic glacier fronts. Head to the observation lounge to enjoy uninterrupted views of South Georgia’s majestic coast.
Nearby
Most South Georgia cruises form part of a longer expedition to Antarctica or the Falkland Islands, with some including visits to other nearby island groups in the Southern Ocean such as the South Sandwich Islands, the South Orkney Islands, and Elephant Island. The South Sandwich Islands are a remote and uninhabited island chain located approximately 700 kilometres southeast of South Georgia Island, while the South Orkney Islands are situated around 600 kilometres northeast of the tip of the Antarctic Peninsula. Additionally, Elephant Island is located around 300 kilometres north of the Antarctic Peninsula. These islands offer unique opportunities for wildlife observation and scientific research and are known for their rugged beauty and fascinating ecosystems.
South Georgia Cruises FAQs
Covering an expansive area of approximately 3,756 square kilometres, South Georgia Island stands as one of the largest islands in the South Atlantic.
How can I book a South Georgia Island cruise or tour?
Booking a South Georgia Island cruise or tour is seamless. Connect with our team through our website, contact us directly, or request a quote.
Alternatively, reach out to your preferred travel agent for assistance in planning your unforgettable journey.
For an unforgettable South Georgia Island cruise experience, costs may vary based on factors like duration, cabin type, and specific tour plans. Explore our website, check our latest brochure, or contact our Reservations Consultants for detailed pricing information on South Georgia Island cruises.
What are the common departure points for South Georgia Island cruises?
Most South Georgia Island cruises depart from the southern tip of South America, with Ushuaia, Argentina, and Punta Arenas, Chile, being common starting points.
Expeditions beginning in Ushuaia will usually involve sailing across the Drake Passage to the Antarctic Peninsula or sailing to the Subantarctic Islands of the Falklands or South Georgia, before continuing to Antarctica.
From Punta Arenas, passengers can have the unique experience of flying to Antarctica – or more specifically to King George Island – on a charter flight arranged specifically for their expedition.
What is the best time to go on a South Georgia Island expedition?
The optimal time for a South Georgia Island cruise is during the austral summer, spanning from October to March. This is when you can experience milder weather and observe the remarkable wildlife and scenery.
For a South Georgia Island cruise, you should pack casual and informal shipboard attire, including jeans, jumpers, and long-sleeved shirts. Make sure to keep your jacket handy for spontaneous wildlife sightings!
While formal clothing isn’t necessary, some people prefer a nicer outfit for the Captain’s farewell drinks.
Each passenger aboard our South Georgia cruises will receive an expedition jacket. Although, you’ll need to ensure you pack the correct cold and wet weather gear for landings.
Check our suggested packing list for South Georgia Island, detailing the layers and materials we recommend.
What wildlife can I expect to encounter on South Georgia Island?
Renowned for its incredible wildlife, South Georgia Island boasts unparalleled biodiversity, featuring the world’s largest king penguin colonies, Antarctic fur seals, and a plethora of seabirds.
South Georgia is home to hundreds of thousands of king penguins occupying the island’s white sandy beaches, accompanied by macaroni, chinstrap and gentoo penguins.
Most of the global population of Antarctic fur seals reside on South Georgia Island. Witness their resilience and playful behavior, especially in November and December when males battle for breeding territory and pups begin to appear.
South Georgia is also a haven for seabirds, attracting over 30 million breeding pairs of albatrosses and petrels. It’s a paradise for birdwatchers and wildlife enthusiasts, with birdlife that rivals anywhere on Earth.
Situated in the South Atlantic Ocean, South Georgia Island is part of the sub-Antarctic region. It is located southeast of South America and to the north of Antarctica.
Celebrated for its breathtaking landscapes, abundant wildlife, and historical significance, South Georgia Island offers a unique blend of natural beauty and the legacy of early explorers and whalers.
Why Join a South Georgia Island Expedition Cruise?
Joining a South Georgia Island expedition cruise provides a unique chance to explore a remote wilderness, encounter diverse wildlife, and delve into the island’s history. With a passionate and knowledgeable Expedition Team, who we consider to be the best in the world, this journey is a discovery and adventure that turns participants into ambassadors for the planet.