Join us for a journey to the last untouched continent including a visit to several of the Falkland Islands. Black-browed Albatross colonies next to Rockhopper Penguins and Blue-eyed Shag colonies, its recent history and the British flair make the Falkland Islands special. Antarctica offers spectacular icebergs and calving glaciers, as well as the possibility of up-close encounters with penguins ashore, seals sunbathing on slow-moving ice floes, and humpback or minke whales surfacing close to the ship. Weather depending, we will take daily Zodiac departures in Antarctica and cruise amidst colorful icebergs, or step ashore to visit a variety of penguin rookeries on excursions led by our team of natural history experts. Go kayaking in Antarctica under the guidance of certified instructors, and cross the incredible Drake Passage to look for pelagic birds, including petrels and prions. Throughout the voyage, learn about the geology, wildlife and history of this spectacular area from lecture presentations offered by your knowledgeable onboard Expedition Team.
Voyage Highlights:
Falkland Islands –
In the Falkland Islands we intend to visit New Island and West Point Island with their Black-browed Albatross and Rockhopper Penguins colonies, see the highlights of Stanley, Bleaker Island with its Gentoo, Magellanic and Rockhopper colonies and Sea Lion Island, looking for marine wildlife in the water and birds ashore.
Antarctic Sound, Antarctica –
We will travel to see tabular icebergs in the Antarctic Sound. The Sound usually shows massive continental icebergs, which rise out of the water like giant white-blue blocks. Depending on ice conditions Zodiac cruises and a landing might be possible.
Antarctic Peninsula, Antarctica –
We will explore the Antarctic Peninsula from the Silver Cloud, on Zodiac cruises and via landings to see seals and penguin colonies. This promontory of land is the furthest-north extension of mainland Antarctica. Your excursions will be expertly planned by your Captain and Expedition Leader according to weather and ice conditions.
South Shetland Islands, Antarctica –
Several landing sites and remains of whaling stations can be found in the South Shetland Islands. This grouping of islands is 75 miles north of the Antarctic Peninsula and holds sixteen research stations run by Argentina, the US, Chile, Spain and several other countries. Sites for your activities will be selected based on weather and ice conditions.
Drake Passage –
We will pass through the Drake Passage, a 600-mile wide expanse that marks the convergence of the Atlantic, Pacific and Southern Oceans. This is an excellent area for whale-watching and pelagic birding. Look for albatrosses and Southern Giant Petrels, as well as Cape Petrels, prions and storm-petrels.
Kayaking in Antarctica –
Silver Cloud offers the opportunity to kayak in a small group under the guidance of certified kayak instructors. These special excursions are a chance to appreciate the wilds of Antarctica in peaceful silence.
Wildlife Watch List:
- Penguins (Gentoo, Magellanic, Rockhopper, Chinstrap, and Adelie Penguins)
- Seals (Antarctic fur seals, Southern elephant seals, Weddell seals, crabeater seals and leopard seals)
- Whales (humpback whales, Minke whales, Sei whales, fin whales, pilot whales, orcas)
- Birds of note: Blue-eyed Shag, Black-browed Albatross, Wandering Albatross, Southern Giant Petrel, Cape Petrel, Wilson’s Storm Petrel, Snowy Sheathbill, Antarctic Terns, Arctic Terns
Expedition highlights and wildlife listed here are possible experiences only and cannot be guaranteed. Your Expedition Leader and Captain will work together to ensure opportunities for adventure and exploration are the best possible, taking into account the prevailing weather, wildlife activity and ice conditions. Expedition Team members scheduled for this voyage are subject to change or cancellation.
GEAR UP
Not sure what to wear while onboard? Visit our shop and gear up. We've got layers to keep you dry and warm, breezy wear to keep you covered and cool, and accessories to keep everything packed up and ready to go. So, no matter the weather, you'll be better prepared for your expedition.
Our Gear Shop has an expert outfitting staff and features all the essentials:
Clothes for all types of weather, boot rentals, accessories and more »
