Antarctica, South Georgia & the Falkland Islands

In today's highly accessible world there are few places that still hold the power to enthral and enchant. Antarctica is certainly one of these. No amount of travel books or programmes can prepare you for the Great White Continent. It is without doubt somewhere that has to be seen to be believed. This most southern of continents, this desert of ice, is so unique and uncommon to mans experience, that even the most dramatic of photographs pale into insignificance when one is confronted by the sheer magnitude, beauty and wonder of an Antarctic landscape.

For centuries myths abounded of a southern land but early exploration was hindered by the ice. Maps dating back to the late Medieval period show a continent named Terra Australis Ingognita, the unknown southern land. Captain Cook became the first person to cross the Antarctic Circle in 1773 but never sited land. The first person to set foot on Antarctica is thought to be an American sealer, Captain John Davis in 1821. Since then it is a land that has consistently challenged and inspired men of extraordinary character to deeds requiring extreme courage. The expeditions of Scott, Amundsen, Shackleton, Ross, Byrd and many others are a shining example of honour, strength and perseverance which today still inspire us and it is always a privilege to explore these same waters aboard the MS Hebridean Sky.

For most travellers the Antarctic experience is a once in a lifetime visit, it is therefore important that the trip should be as rewarding as possible. Antarctica is to be experienced, not just to be seen, and we believe the only way to do this is onboard a small ship. To enjoy the wonders of this icy paradise in the company of a small and enthusiastic party is the perfect way to achieve the most from a visit to this extraordinary place.

Our expedition aboard the MS Hebridean Sky features not only the Antarctic Peninsula but also magnificent South Georgia where you will experience one of the worlds natural wonders, the Alps in mid-ocean, offering remarkable concentrations of wildlife against a backdrop of glaciers and snow-covered mountains. Hugging the coast to the wildest reaches of the island we land on beaches alive with rampaging fur seals, somnolent elephant seals and truly astonishing numbers of King penguins. We also spend time on the Falkland Islands, an enchanting place with a unique character and staggering wildlife. This is the last sanctuary of the elegant albatross which soars graciously against the blue sky and has colonies of elephant seals basking at the foot of vertiginous cliffs. In between our landings by Zodiac and while at sea, you can pass the time on deck looking for wildlife, attend the series of lectures by members of the expedition team and simply relax onboard.