Spirit of Shackleton

Find the perfect trip

21 days from

£14155.0

* Current p/p indicative rate.

Overview
Highlights
Dates & Prices
Itinerary
Map
Ships
What's Included
Optional Extras

Highlights

  • Meet hardy locals and spot unique wildlife in the Falkland Islands
  • Explore abandoned whaling stations and visit Shackleton’s grave
  • Walk quietly amongst king penguins and watch them surf onto the beach
  • Learn about the environment and ecology from industry experts
  • Spot whales and seals while cruising past icebergs aboard Zodiacs
  • Set foot on the continent of Antarctica

Highlights

  • Meet hardy locals and spot unique wildlife in the Falkland Islands
  • Explore abandoned whaling stations and visit Shackleton’s grave
  • Walk quietly amongst king penguins and watch them surf onto the beach
  • Learn about the environment and ecology from industry experts
  • Spot whales and seals while cruising past icebergs aboard Zodiacs
  • Set foot on the continent of Antarctica
Capacity: 132, Type: Expedition

Experience vast penguin rookeries and seal colonies on this awe-inspiring voyage to Antarctica, South Georgia, and the Falkland Islands. This 21-day voyage illuminates Ernest Shackleton’s legend and recounts his courageous exploration of Antarctica. You’ll visit historical sites of past explorers, as well as Shackleton’s final resting place – the wildlife-rich island of South Georgia. Antarctica is beyond comprehension and sure to amaze any traveller seeking a true adventure to the world’s most remote wilderness.

  • Meet hardy locals and spot unique wildlife in the Falkland Islands
  • Explore abandoned whaling stations and visit Shackleton’s grave
  • Walk quietly amongst king penguins and watch them surf onto the beach
  • Learn about the environment and ecology from industry experts
  • Spot whales and seals while cruising past icebergs aboard Zodiacs
  • Set foot on the continent of Antarctica
11 January, 2025 to 31 January, 2025 on Expedition
Prices

Prices quoted here are often dependent on currency fluctuations. Please check with (01432 507450 or [email protected]) for the very latest price, which may well be cheaper than the one advertised here.

Cat 3 - Twin
£ 20005 GBP pp
Cat 3 - Twin
Two lower berths. Private en-suite facilities with shower, toilet and washbasin. Approx 15m² . Larger window. Located on Deck 3.
Cat 1A - Quad
£ 14155 GBP pp
Cat 1A - Quad
2 Upper, 2 lower berths. Private en-suite facilities with shower, toilet and washbasin. Approx 15m² . Porthole. Located on Deck 2.
Cat 1 - Triple
£ 15905 GBP pp
Cat 1 - Triple
2 Upper berths and 1 lower berth. Private en-suite facilities with shower, toilet and washbasin. Approx 15m² . Porthole. Located on Deck 2.
Cat 2 - Twin
£ 18555 GBP pp
Cat 2 - Twin
Two lower berths. Private en-suite facilities with shower, toilet and washbasin. Approx 15m² . Porthole. Located on Deck 2.
Cat 4 - Twin
£ 21655 GBP pp
Cat 4 - Twin
Two lower berths. Private en-suite facilities with shower, toilet and washbasin. Approx 15m² . Larger window. Located on Deck 4.
Cat 5 - Suite
£ 24355 GBP pp
Cat 5 - Suite
Our four suites all feature separate entrances, living and sleeping areas. Each living area includes a 2-seater couch, armchair, coffee table and desk. Each bedroom contains a double bed as well as a vanity area. Located on Deck 4.
11 January, 2026 to 31 January, 2026 on Expedition
Prices

Prices quoted here are often dependent on currency fluctuations. Please check with (01432 507450 or [email protected]) for the very latest price, which may well be cheaper than the one advertised here.

Cat 5 - Suite
£ 26055 GBP pp
Cat 5 - Suite
Our four suites all feature separate entrances, living and sleeping areas. Each living area includes a 2-seater couch, armchair, coffee table and desk. Each bedroom contains a double bed as well as a vanity area. Located on Deck 4.
Cat 4 - Twin
£ 23605 GBP pp
Cat 4 - Twin
Two lower berths. Private en-suite facilities with shower, toilet and washbasin. Approx 15m² . Larger window. Located on Deck 4.
Cat 2 - Twin
£ 19855 GBP pp
Cat 2 - Twin
Two lower berths. Private en-suite facilities with shower, toilet and washbasin. Approx 15m² . Porthole. Located on Deck 2.
Cat 3 - Twin
£ 21355 GBP pp
Cat 3 - Twin
Two lower berths. Private en-suite facilities with shower, toilet and washbasin. Approx 15m² . Larger window. Located on Deck 3.
Cat 1A - Quad
£ 15155 GBP pp
Cat 1A - Quad
2 Upper, 2 lower berths. Private en-suite facilities with shower, toilet and washbasin. Approx 15m² . Porthole. Located on Deck 2.
Cat 1 - Triple
£ 17005 GBP pp
Cat 1 - Triple
2 Upper berths and 1 lower berth. Private en-suite facilities with shower, toilet and washbasin. Approx 15m² . Porthole. Located on Deck 2.
show reverse itinerary
Day 1 Ushuaia

Arrive in Ushuaia at any time. Enjoy the sights and sounds of the world's most southerly city. Arrival transfer is included. There will be a welcome desk in the lobby of the start hotel that will provide more specific information on the MS Expedition.

Day 2 Ushuaia/Beagle Channel

Enjoy a free morning in Ushuaia. Do any last minute shopping or explore the town or the surrounding countryside. Embarkation on the MS Expedition begins in the afternoon at the port in Ushuaia. Enjoy the evening sailing through the Beagle Channel. Expedition travel can be full of surprises! While it is our intention of adhere to the itinerary described below, there is a certain amount of flexibility built into the itinerary and on occasion it may be necessary, or desirable to make alterations. On the first day onboard, the Expedition Leader will give an expedition overview outlining what the specific plans are for the trip.

Day 3 Beagle Channel/Falkland Islands (Islas Malvinas)

As the Expedition makes passage east, become acquainted with the ship. Begin lectures and information sessions about the extraordinary human and natural history of the Antarctic region. On the passage east visit the common areas that include the lounge, dining hall, library and lecture hall and meet the guides, ship’s crew and lecturers. Begin the lectures and information sessions to learn the extraordinary human and natural history of the Antarctic region.

Days 4–5 Falkland Islands (Islas Malvinas)/Southern Ocean

The Falkland Islands provide a rare opportunity to witness the biological diversity and extraordinary scenery of the southern islands. Penguins and albatross are abundant here, and the Falklands have the largest black-browed albatross colony in the world. In Stanley, meet the hardy local inhabitants whose colourful houses provide contrast to the long, dark winters. Catch our first glimpses of penguins, including the Magellanic, rockhopper, gentoo, and king penguins. With a little luck, spot elephant seals, sea lions, king cormorants, black-browed albatross, skuas, night herons, giant petrels, striated caracaras and of course sheep.

Days 6–7 Southern Ocean/South Georgia

Sailing east, set course for South Georgia. Days at sea are filled with lectures to prepare for landings. Watch for the many whales that inhabit these waters.

Days 8–11 South Georgia/Scotia Sea

Home to many interesting sites (including the grave of polar explorer Ernest Shackleton), South Georgia has several former whaling stations and boasts plenty of wildlife. Visiting a huge colony of king penguins is a major highlight of this part of the journey. Weather permitting, spend three full days exploring the island. Weather permitting, three full days will be spent exploring this island. On nearby islands look out for the wandering albatross in their nesting grounds.

Days 12–13 Scotia Sea/Tierra de O'Higgins, Península

Sail for two days, retracing Shackleton's route backwards on course towards Elephant Island and the Antarctic Peninsula. These waters are rich with nutrients and the long summer days provide the ingredient that is missing most of the year. The result is a complex food chain topped by several species of whales, seals, and seabirds.

Days 14–18 Tierra de O'Higgins, Península/Drake Passage

Experience some of the most unique wildlife and awe-inspiring scenery in the world while setting foot on the Antarctic continent. Attempt two shore landings per day (weather permitting), and encounter Gentoo, Chinstrap, and Adélie penguin rookeries; Weddell, crabeater, and leopard seals; and orca, humpback, and minke whales in the cold Antarctic waters. The peninsula also has a remarkable human history. Finally a chance to step foot on the Great White Continent! Over the next four days, the Expedition will navigate southwards making stops in the South Shetland Islands then through the Bransfield Strait and to the Antarctic Peninsula. Our goal is to attempt two excursions per day while we navigate through the area but our itinerary and daily schedule will be based on the local weather and ice conditions that we encounter. The Antarctic Peninsula and the South Shetland Islands abound with wildlife activity. Take a chance to visit scientists working in modern research bases, with plenty of time to enjoy the sheer beauty and the breathtaking scenery of ice-choked waterways, blue and white icebergs, impressive glaciers and rugged snow-capped mountains. The Peninsula also has a remarkable history and, during the voyage, opt to learn about some of the most important and dramatic expeditions to this remote corner of the world.

Days 19–20 Drake Passage/Ushuaia

Reflect on a memorable adventure and take in some final lectures on route back to Ushuaia. Keep a careful lookout for a last chance to spot whales. Heading north across the Drake Passage, spend two days enjoying the beauty of the sea while sailing for Ushuaia. In between bird watching, whale watching, and enjoying some final lectures by our expedition staff, this is a chance to relax and review the adventures of the past week before returning to Ushuaia. Remember, the best way to experience the wildlife of the Drake Passage is to be on deck keeping a look out for Albatross, Prions, and Whales!

Day 21 Ushuaia

Disembark in the morning. Our adventure comes to a close. Have a final breakfast on the expedition ship before saying goodbyes before disembarking in Ushuaia in the morning.

Please Note:

While it is our intention to adhere to the route described below, there is a certain amount of flexibility built into the itinerary and on occasion it may be necessary, or desirable to make alterations. The itinerary is brief, as we never know exactly where our journey will take us. Due to our style of travel and the regions we visit, travel can be unpredictable.

Expedition
The MS Expedition provides an intimate small-ship cruising experience. Completely refurbished in 2009, she boasts spacious cabins, each featuring ocean-facing windows or portholes and priva…

Expedition

Length 105 metres
Capacity 132 passengers
The MS Expedition provides an intimate small-ship cruising experience. Completely refurbished in 2009, she boasts spacious cabins, each featuring ocean-facing windows or portholes and private en-suite facilities. Large common areas and observation decks provide panoramic views of the distinctive landscapes of some of the world's most remote regions. The Expedition's spacious confines can hold up to 140 passengers.
You will be given a free expedition parka jacket on all Polar voyages on board MS Expedition
  • Fast – spend less time in transit and more time exploring
  • Sturdy – excellent stability and performance in rough weather
  • Safe – designed with safety in mind
  • Responsible – environmental policies that meet and exceed industry regulations

Facilities and Amenities

  • 360° Top Observation Deck
  • All cabins with private ensuite and outside views
  • Raised Forward Observation Deck
  • Large fleet of Zodiacs with four stroke engines
  • Complimentary Wellington Boots for duration of your cruise
  • Complimentary destination guides for every passenger
  • Large headed Mud Room
  • Lonely Planet Library
  • Discovery Lounge
  • Fine dining – international cuisine in one sitting
  • Large aft deck with barbeque facilities
  • Polar Bear Pub
  • Gift Shop
  • Medical Clinic
  • Sauna
  • Computer Room with internet where available
  • Gym

Cabin layout for Expedition

Includes

  • 19 nts aboard the G Expedition.
  • 1 night hotel in Ushuaia, on a twin share basis.
  • Arrival and departure transfers.
  • Zodiac excursions with our expert expedition team.
  • Lectures and educational programs.
  • Waterproof boots supplied for USA sizes 4 - 16.
  • Expedition parka.

Camping

£288.00
Experience the sounds of heaving ice, the fresh scent of the sea, and the crisp air of Antarctica in the polar night by camping on the ice itself.

Kayaking

$999.00
Go eye to eye with an inquisitive whale—it’s a rare and special moment that will carve itself into your memory. Kayaking isn’t just an outdoor adventure, it’s an opportunity to experience these remote regions from another vantage point. A limited number of lucky adventurers will venture out to sheltered bays and areas known for calmer waters and take part in group kayaking trips led by our experienced and skilled leaders. No other activity gets you as close to the natural environment! Experience necessary.
Overview
Highlights
Dates & Prices
Itinerary
Map
Ship
What's Included
Optional Extras

21 days from £14155.0

Trip Tags
Wildlife Cruises
Find your favorite region