South Georgia Micro Cruise
Sail into South Georgia’s untamed wilderness—a place of towering beauty, abundant wildlife, and ever-shifting light.
We’ve crafted our longest-ever South Georgia expedition—a 15-day journey that takes you deep into one of the planet’s most extraordinary and remote environments.
Often called the Serengeti of the Southern Ocean, South Georgia teems with life in every season. Vast colonies of king penguins fill the shores, while elephant seals sprawl across the beaches and leopard seals prowl the icy shallows. Albatrosses soar effortlessly overhead, their immense wings cutting through the wind as glaciers glint in the distance.
Whether it’s the fresh vibrancy of summer, the golden calm of autumn, the stark drama of winter, or the crisp renewal of spring, South Georgia offers a raw, ever-changing spectacle of nature—wild, powerful, and unforgettable.
Highlights
• Enjoy extended discovery—with 15 days at sea, you’ll journey deep into South Georgia’s rugged landscapes, from bustling macaroni, gentoo, and king penguin rookeries to remote beaches and sweeping glacial vistas.
• Follow in Shackleton’s footsteps—walk the windswept shores where Sir Ernest Shackleton’s legendary expedition came to rest. Visit Grytviken, his final resting place, and experience the island’s rich polar history firsthand.
• Explore iconic South Georgia destinations—from the immense king penguin colonies at St Andrews Bay and Salisbury Plain to the historic whaling station at Grytviken, the fjord-carved coastlines of Gold Harbour, and Prion Island’s nesting wandering albatrosses—each stop revealing unforgettable encounters and breathtaking scenery.
• Exceptional photographic opportunities—capture wildlife in motion, dramatic seascapes, and the shifting moods of the Southern Ocean light.
• Expert-led exploration—learn from experienced expedition guides and naturalists through lectures and shore excursions that deepen your understanding of this remarkable island and its living wilderness.
Depart Port Stanley, Falkland Islands in the afternoon and set sail across the Scotia Sea toward South Georgia. Keep your eyes peeled high and low for wandering albatrosses that tend to glide alongside the ship and dolphins playing in the wake.
Crossing the Scotia Sea is all part of the adventure. A time to spend time on deck with your camera and between these photographic moments, you’ll have the chance to take in expert-led talks and workshops on photography and South Georgia’s wildlife, history and geology.
By day 3, the first dramatic snow-covered peaks of South Georgia start to appear on the horizon.
We'll aim to explore South Georgia’s rugged coastline, making daily Zodiac landings to discover its most spectacular wildlife.
With 450,000 king penguins, it’s home to some of the planet’s greatest concentrations. Our flexible schedule should take us to key colonies at St Andrew’s Bay, Salisbury Plain, and Gold Harbour — at the best times to capture these awe-inspiring moments.
We aim to Zodiac cruise into South Georgia’s wildest corners and photograph nesting albatrosses on Prion Island from the water.
At Cooper Bay, you might find macaroni penguins nestled in tussock grass, and also visit Grytviken, a historic whaling station and the final resting place of legendary explorer Ernest Shackleton. All while the remote, towering glaciers of Drygalski Fjord surround you in breathtaking, untamed beauty.
As we sail back to the Falkland Islands, you'll enjoy insightful lectures from our expert guides reflecting on the wildlife, history, and landscapes you’ve experienced in South Georgia. As well as keeping an eye out for wildlife in the open waters, this is a good time to unwind in the sauna, share stories, and connect with fellow photographers.
Upon arrival in Port Stanley, you'll disembark after breakfast, concluding an unforgettable expedition.
We prefer to embrace spontaneity and make the most of every opportunity nature presents to us. This is how we believe a true, authentic expedition should run. After all, the thrill of adventuring into the unknown is more rewarding than a journey that runs on tracks!
So all our listed itineraries are for guidance only. The day-to-day activities may vary depending on the ice, the weather, and the wildlife. Landings are subject to site availability and permissions, and always in line with IAATO regulations.
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Classic Twin
Signature Twin
Signature Single
Classic Suite
Signature Suite
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Classic Twin
Signature Twin
Signature Single
Classic Suite
Signature Suite
|
Book now |
Classic Twin
Signature Twin
Classic Suite
Signature Single
Signature Suite
|
Book now |
Classic Twin
Signature Twin
Classic Suite
Signature Single
Signature Suite
|
Book now |
Classic Twin
Signature Twin
Classic Suite
Signature Single
Signature Suite
Vessel Type: Small Expedition Ship
Length: 71 meters
Passenger Capacity: 42
Built for true polar exploration, MV Polar Athena combines the rugged power of an icebreaker with the intimacy of small-group travel. With the highest 1A Super ice-class rating and space for just 42 guests, she offers one of the most personal Antarctic experiences available. Born as a research vessel and reimagined for modern-day adventurers, Polar Athena slices through heavy sea ice with ease, offering unmatched agility, comfort, and access to remote destinations. Her small size ensures that all guests can disembark together for Zodiac excursions, maximising time ashore and embracing the spontaneity of wildlife encounters and shifting weather.
On board, guests enjoy Scandinavian-style comfort with thoughtfully designed cabins, panoramic observation lounges, and a warm, family-like atmosphere. Whether you're spotting whales from the elevated bow deck, relaxing in the wellness area’s hot tub, or enjoying freshly prepared meals in the cosy dining room, Polar Athena offers immersive exploration without the crowds. Her bridge lounges welcome guests throughout the voyage, offering behind-the-scenes insight and a shared sense of purpose with the crew, making each journey feel like a genuine expedition into the unknown.
Inclusions
SVALBARD
• Expert Svalbard Expedition Leader
• Lectures on Svalbard
• Use of Zodiac (Dinghies) for shore landings and photography opportunities
• Polar Bear protection guides for shore landings
• Full Board (breakfast, lunch and dinner + alcoholic drinks with evening meal)
• Bedding and towels
• Highly experienced Captain and Cook
• Rubber boots for shore landings
• Transfers from airport to hotel and to vessel for embarkation + vessel to airport/hotel after disembarkation
ANTARCTICA
• Expert Antarctica Expedition Guide Team
• Lectures on Antarctica
• Use of Zodiac (Dinghies) for shore landings and photography opportunities
• Full Board (breakfast, lunch and dinner )
• Bedding and towels
• Highly experienced Captain and Cook
• Rubber boots for shore landings
Exclusions
• Flights
• Travel and cancellation insurance
• Any additional expenses such as museum entry
Expedition
Our Associates Include
