Falkland Islands Expedition: Magellan Explorer

Falkland Islands

Discover the remote Falkland Islands (Islas Malvinas) on a small-ship expedition in the South Atlantic. This rugged archipelago east of Patagonia is famed for spectacular wildlife encounters, including colonies of rockhopper, gentoo, Magellanic and king penguins alongside black-browed albatrosses and seals. Explore windswept coastlines, remote islands and historic Port Stanley while enjoying guided landings and nature walks led by expert expedition staff in one of the world’s most remarkable sub-Antarctic environments

Highlights

  • Expedition cruise to the Falkland Islands (Islas Malvinas) in the South Atlantic.
  • See rockhopper, gentoo, Magellanic and king penguin colonies.
  • Observe black-browed albatross and abundant seabird populations.
  • Wildlife encounters with seals, dolphins and marine life.
  • Visit Port Stanley and explore remote islands and dramatic coastlines.
  • Guided shore landings and expert-led wildlife excursions.

Early Booking offer

Save Up To USD $1,000 per person on this special sea voyage on board Magellan Explorer. The promotion is available until March 31, 2026. Conditions apply.

Stewart's Take

Unique opportunity for late-season season and in-depth experience of the Falklands

Overview

Discover the remote Falkland Islands (Islas Malvinas) on a small-ship expedition in the South Atlantic. This rugged archipelago east of Patagonia is famed for spectacular wildlife encounters, including colonies of rockhopper, gentoo, Magellanic and king penguins alongside black-browed albatrosses and seals. Explore windswept coastlines, remote islands and historic Port Stanley while enjoying guided landings and nature walks led by expert expedition staff in one of the world’s most remarkable sub-Antarctic environments

Itinerary

Join an unparalleled journey to the remote and wildlife-rich Falkland Islands archipelago. A perfect blend of breathtaking landscapes, remarkable wildlife encounters, and a deep connection to the region’s fascinating history.  Day 1 - Ushuaia, Embarkation Your journey begins in Ushuaia, Argentina. Board your small ship and set sail along the scenic Beagle Channel, charting a course toward the Falkland Islands.Important note: Boarding in Ushuaia is exclusively between 15:00 hrs (3:00 PM) and 16:00 hrs (4:00 PM). At 16:00 hrs (4:00 PM), boarding will close. Please be on time. Keep your passport in hand and allow enough time to clear port security and reach the vessel. Day 2 - At Sea As we journey across open waters, enjoy boutique amenities on board and join our expertled lectures and presentations. Day 3 - New Island, Carcass Island. Weather permitting, the morning might bring us to New Island, one of the Falklands’ most remote and visually striking locations, rich in wildlife. Towering cliffs and grassy slopes may host colonies of southern rockhopper penguins, imperial shags, and black-browed albatross. In the afternoon, we visit Carcass Island, a picturesque haven known for its rolling hills, sandy beaches, and sheltered bays. This wildlife-rich destination offers excellent opportunities to spot gentoo and Magellanic penguins, along with a variety of native bird species such as tussac birds and striated caracaras. Its tranquil setting and vibrant flora make it a favorite for photography and nature walks. Day 4 - Steeple Jason Island, Saunders Island If weather and sea conditions permit, we might land on the remote and dramatic Steeple Jason Island, known for hosting the world’s largest colony of black-browed albatross. Rockhopper penguins and imperial shags also share the rugged cliffs. In the afternoon, we enjoy a long white-sand beach while we visit Saunders Island. A true wilderness experience, the main attractions begin with the majestic king penguins, often seen along the shoreline or mingling among other species. You’ll also encounter rockhopper penguins, nesting black-browed albatross, and sub-Antarctic gentoo penguins, creating an unforgettable wildlife spectacle. Day 5 - Volunteer Point Stanley In the morning, if weather conditions allow, we visit Volunteer Point, a remote and spectacular location that hosts the largest King penguin colony in the Falklands, with over 1,000 breeding pairs. Here, majestic Kings share the beach with gentoo and magellanic penguins, creating one of the most iconic wildlife experiences in the South Atlantic. In the afternoon, our journey continues with a call at Port Stanley, the capital of the Falklands. Join guided walking tours or wander independently to discover the town’s charming pubs, historic sites, maritime museum, and souvenir shops. A stroll along Ross Road offers views of poignant war memorials and everyday island life. Day 6 - Bleaker Island, Sea Lion Island In the morning, we explore Bleaker Island, home to abundant coastal birdlife and colonies of gentoo, rockhopper, and magellanic penguins. The island’s flat terrain and wide beaches provide excellent conditions for photography and relaxed exploration. In the afternoon, weather allowing, we continue to Bull Point on East Falkland, where windswept dunes and wild coastlines host elephant seals, sea lions, and nesting seabirds. Don’t miss the sunset as we transit the Falkland Sound, a magical moment on the journey. Day 7 - Pebble Island, Keppel Island Our morning includes a landing on Pebble Island, noted for its varied terrain and prolific birdlife. Later, on Keppel Island, we’ll discover traces of a historic mission of settlement and opportunities to spot upland geese, caracaras, and other native species along gentle trails. Day 8 - West Point Island In the morning, we visit West Point Island, a remote gem known for its dramatic coastal scenery and rich birdlife. An easy hike takes you to a spectacular colony of black-browed albatross and rockhopper penguins, perched on rugged cliffs overlooking the sea. This is one of the Falklands’ most iconic wildlife encounters, complemented by a warm welcome and a traditional Falklands tea experience in this charming and secluded setting. In the afternoon, we set sail northward, reflecting on the unforgettable wildlife encounters and scenic vistas. Day 9 - At Sea Enjoy the ship’s hospitality as we make our way back to South America. Day 10 - Ushuaia, Disembarkation Arrival and disembarkation in Ushuaia. IMPORTANT TRIP DETAILS Every effort will be made to adhere to the planned program. However, with this type of adventurous travel, changes to the itinerary may occur due to severe and changeable weather. We need to emphasize the fact that weather conditions are unpredictable, and safety is always the paramount concern on any Antarctic voyage. For this reason, Antarctica21 reserves the right to change the itinerary described due to weather conditions or other factors beyond control without consulting the participants. THE NATURE OF EXPEDITION TRAVEL These expeditions are suitable for adventurous travelers who enjoy full mobility and reasonably good health. Expedition travel requires flexibility and adaptation to ever-changing circumstances.   

Vessel

Luxury expedition Vessel: Magellan Explorer

Magellan Explorer expedition vessel

Magellan Explorer is a small, luxurious and thoroughly modern expedition vessel, built in Chile 2019 to the very latest Polar Code specifications. Magellan Explorer has capacity for up to 96 passengers (76 for air-cruise operations) in seven categories of accommodation, including dedicated single cabins. All cabins except Porthole cabins feature private balconies. All double cabins except two have two twin beds that can be configured as one king-size bed. All cabins feature a wardrobe, individually controlled heating system, a sitting area, and a private bathroom with shower. The ship features a glass-enclosed observation lounge and presentation room with state-of-the-art audio-visual equipment, a spacious and stylish dining room, a well-stocked bar, a library, a meeting room, a gym, a sauna, and a medical clinic. The forward-facing observation deck leads to the bow of the ship, which is accessible to guests to offer proximity to marine wildlife. The ship has a fleet of 10 Zodiac boats that are well suited for disembarking and wildlife watching.

For full information about this vessel click here:

Booking Information

Essential Information

Deposits

Reservations require a deposit of $2500 per person at the time you receive a booking confirmation from Expeditions Online. A payment link will be sent to you and this may be paid by major credit card alternatively bank transfer. Bookings within 120 days of departure require full payment.

Final Payments

Balances are due 120 days prior to departure. Final payment can be made by calling us (final payment cannot be made online) and may be paid by major credit card (however subject to a 2% surcharge) or bank transfer.

Cancellations

All requests for cancellation must be received in writing to Expeditions Online. The following policy applies: Up to 180 days prior to departure: full refund of the deposit received, less a $1,000 USD per person.

179 and 120 days prior to departure: no refund of the deposit paid.

119 and 90 days prior to departure: refund of 10% of the amount paid, provided that the final payment has been received.

89 and 60 days prior to departure: refund of 7.5% of the amount paid, provided that the final payment has been received.

59 and 30 days prior to departure: refund of 5% of the amount paid, provided that the final payment has been received.

between 29 and the departure date: no refund whatsoever.

We strongly recommend that you obtain adequate trip cancellation insurance.

Booking Terms

Please read carefully the General Booking Conditions for Expeditions Online. This expedition is operated by Antarctica21 and you additionally travel under their terms and conditions as the operator as well as of the Shipping Company/transport carrier. Details will be forwarded to you at the time of booking.

Single travellers can choose between:

Booking a dedicated single cabin.

Booking a twin cabin for single use. An 85% supplement will be added to the rate per person in twin cabin.

Sharing a twin cabin with another passenger (same gender cabins). No supplement is applied.

CONTINGENCY PLAN

In case that the flight to or from Antarctica cannot take place due to unfavourable weather conditions either at point of origin and/or destination, Antarctica21 will apply the Contingency Plan corresponding to each voyage (details on request)

Included

  • Comprehensive pre- and post-voyage information material.
  • Ship cruise as indicated in the itinerary.
  • Daily buffet breakfast and lunch on board ship offering a wide choice of dishes.
  • Daily served dinner on board ship offering a choice of three main courses.
  • Wine, beer, juice, and soft drinks served with lunch and dinner on board ship
  • Coffee, tea, chocolate, cappuccino, water and snacks on board ship throughout the expedition.
  • Loan of waterproof boots for landing.
  • All guided shore excursions.
  • Lectures and entertainment on board.
  • IAATO passenger fee.

Excluded

  • Accommodation, meals, excursions and transfers other than those included in the itinerary corresponding to each voyage.
  • Beverages purchased at the ship’s bar.
  • Personal travel insurance.
  • Extra expenses (communication, laundry, souvenirs, etc.).
  • Gratuities.
  • Visas for Chile and/or Argentina, passport expenses, and any arrival and/or departure tax, if applicable.
Booking Request
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