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Ponant's exhilarating 19-day expedition cruise aboard Le Boréal embarks from the vibrant seaport of Ushuaia on 10 November 2023 00:00, exploring the untamed beauty of the South Atlantic. With an allure of mythical tales and rugged panoramas, Ushuaia sets the tone for an adventure that sails into boundless wilderness.[^1]^1 The route charts a course through South Georgia, where monumental snow-capped peaks and sprawling grasslands play host to a cacophony of species, including colonies of king and macaroni penguins and the imposing elephant seals, each corner echoing with tales of Antarctic exploration.[^2]
Furthering the voyage's allure, the untamed charm of the Falkland Islands unravels, with its striking British character punctuated by the spectacle of vividly coloured domiciles and the impressive sight of tuxedo-clad penguins. Days at sea glide you towards the isolated beauty of the Valdes Peninsula, a realm where diverse wildlife thrives amidst arid steppe and floral richness. Guided by expert expedition leaders, every landing and wildlife encounter, subject to the capriciousness of weather and tides, becomes a unique and unparalleled experience.^2 The journey concludes in Buenos Aires on 29 November 2023 12:00, a city dichotomous in its charm, seamlessly blending the old-world charisma of Europe with vibrant Latin American rhythms.[^3]
[Note]: Dates provided reflect the end of each day's itinerary as they pertain to each location and experience detailed within the outlined expedition schedule.
[^1]: Historical and cultural notes set the tone for adventurers as they depart Port of Ushuaia.
[^2]: South Georgia's wildlife and historical tales of explorers unravel throughout days 5 to 7.
[^3]: Buenos Aires, a blend of tradition and modernity, wraps up the voyage on day 19.
Ushuaia, Argentina: At 55 degrees latitude south, Ushuaia is closer to the South Pole than to Argentina's northern border with Bolivia. It serves as the capital and tourism base for Tierra del Fuego, an island at the southernmost tip of Argentina. While its stark natural beauty is striking, the area's historical allure is more tied to its mythical past. Inhabited for 6,000 years by indigenous tribes, Ushuaia later became a penal colony in the early 20th century, aiding Argentina's territorial claims. Since the prison's closure in 1947, Ushuaia has grown into a bustling city, drawing 120,000 visitors each summer. Today, it prides itself as the southernmost city in the world, though this claim is contested by the smaller Puerto Williams in Chile. Nature enthusiasts are drawn to activities like trekking, fishing, and wildlife spotting in the nearby Tierra del Fuego National Park.
South Georgia Island, South Georgia and the South Sandwich Islands: South Georgia is a breathtaking destination of towering snow-covered mountains, mighty glaciers, and low-lying grasslands teeming with wildlife. The island hosts Southern fur seals, Southern elephant seals, and an array of albatross species. The history of South Georgia is entwined with early Antarctic exploration, marked by Captain James Cook's arrival in 1775 and Ernest Shackleton's in 1916 following his ship, Endurance's, sinking. Notable sites include Shackleton’s grave and the whaling museum at Grytviken, as well as the King Penguin colonies at Salisbury Plain or Gold Harbour.
South Georgia Island, South Georgia and the South Sandwich Islands: South Georgia offers awe-inspiring landscapes with its looming snow-covered mountains and rich biodiversity. The island draws visitors with its Southern fur seals, elephant seals, and a vibrant array of albatross species. Historical connections are strong here, from Captain James Cook's 1775 landing to Ernest Shackleton's 1916 arrival. Must-visit sites include Shackleton’s resting place and Grytviken’s whaling museum, along with King Penguin colonies at places like Salisbury Plain.
South Georgia Island, South Georgia and the South Sandwich Islands: Renowned for its dramatic snowy peaks and striking wildlife concentration, South Georgia draws explorers to its shores. The island provides sanctuary to Southern fur seals, elephant seals, and diverse albatross species. Steeped in Antarctic exploration history, it was first visited by Captain Cook in 1775, and later by Shackleton in 1916. Visitors often explore Shackleton’s grave, Grytviken’s whaling museum, and King Penguin colonies at Salisbury Plain.
Port Stanley, Falkland Islands (Malvinas): The picturesque capital of the Falklands, Stanley, resembles a quaint British village with brightly painted homes. The wreck of the Lady Elizabeth speaks to the Falklands’ harsh weather. The islands house more penguins than humans across species like Gentoo and Magellanic penguins, along with the eerie King penguin. Darwin himself was captivated by these islands' ecosystems, ensuring any visitor will find them enthralling.
Volunteer Point, Falkland Islands (Malvinas): Situated in Northeast East Falkland, Volunteer Point boasts a stunning sandy beach and birdlife variety, being a protected Nature Reserve. It's home to the largest breeding group of king penguins, offering a breathtaking spectacle for nature enthusiasts.
Saunders Island, Falkland Islands (Malvinas): The fourth-largest Falkland Island, Saunders is uniquely formed of peninsulas connected by narrow necks. It’s known for historic British settlements and present diverse wildlife. The island's highest point, Mount Richards, hosts Penguin species and Black-browed Albatrosses among others.
Carcass Island, Falkland Islands (Malvinas): Carcass Island, untouched by rodents, presents a safe haven for birds and wildlife. Its lush, grassy landscapes provide fertile grounds for a variety of bird species including tussac birds, penguins, and albatrosses. The island's rich flora complements its remarkable fauna, offering a serene setting for nature excursions.
Falkland Islands, Falkland Islands (Malvinas): The broader Falkland Islands offer an untouched landscape busy with diverse birdlife and magnificent marine animals. Around the islands, penguins clatter in abundance while Southern Right Whales grace the waters. The conditions are ideal for photography and natural history explorations.
Steeple Jason Island, Falkland Islands (Malvinas): As part of the secluded Jason Islands, Steeple Jason is noted for its dramatic views and the world’s largest colony of black-browed albatrosses. This raw, natural beauty makes it a compelling destination for wildlife photography and bird enthusiasts.
Camarones, Argentina: In this quaint village, ‘Camarones’ meaning ‘prawns’ offers a culinary delight for seafood lovers. Visitors can enjoy fresh seafood dishes with wine from Río Negro. Nearby, Cabo Dos Bahías and Punta Tombo nature reserves reveal a spectacle of Magellanic penguins and marine life in their natural habitat.
Puerto Madryn, Argentina: Often bustling but not overcrowded, Puerto Madryn serves as a base for visiting prime wildlife sites like Península Valdés and Punta Tombo. While the town’s architecture is modest, it's the marine mammals and birdlife near the coast that captivate visitors. The bay comes alive during whale season as these giants frolic nearby.
Puerto Madryn, Argentina: A strategic gateway to nearby nature reserves, Puerto Madryn's charm lies in its access to wildlife-rich areas rather than its own attractions. It's a haven for those seeking to explore Patagonia's coastal ecology, especially with the seasonal pod of whales gracing its bay.
Buenos Aires, Argentina: With its captivating blend of European and Latin American influences, Buenos Aires offers an urban adventure like no other. You’ll find Spanish-style squares beside quintessentially Latin American streets alive with tango and football fever, ensuring that this vibrant city leaves a lasting impression.
We endeavour to ensure that the information provided on our website regarding itineraries and schedules is accurate and up-to-date. Please be aware, however, that this information is offered in good faith and may be subject to change due to unforeseen circumstances or events beyond our control. We appreciate your understanding and flexibility in this regard.
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