Follow in the footsteps of Shackleton on a journey through South Georgia, one of the most remote and wildlife-rich places on Earth. This 15-day expedition is our longest-ever voyage in the region, designed to give you time to fully experience its dramatic landscapes and abundant wildlife.
With only 42 guests on board, you’ll enjoy the flexibility to explore without crowds or rigid schedules. Our small ship can reach places larger vessels cannot, allowing you to linger longer when special moments unfold.
Each day offers new highlights. Stand among vast colonies of king penguins at St Andrew’s Bay and Salisbury Plain. Watch elephant seals on the beaches and seabirds nesting on rugged cliffs. Cruise by Zodiac around Prion Island, home to the wandering albatross. Visit historic Grytviken and raise a glass to “The Boss” himself, Sir Ernest Shackleton.
The adventure begins in Port Stanley in the Falkland Islands, sailing across the Scotia Sea to South Georgia. Along the way, you’ll be guided by experts in polar history and wildlife, with the chance to learn and practice photography alongside some of the world’s leading polar photographers.
Spring light in the Southern Ocean creates an unforgettable atmosphere, enhancing every view—from towering peaks and icebergs to the turquoise seas that surround them. This is a rare opportunity to connect with nature at its wildest, while enjoying the comfort and camaraderie of a small expedition ship.
Expedition Highlights
Early season magic
Experience South Georgia at its most dramatic, with snow-dusted landscapes and wildlife in full action. Golden spring light creates unique, atmospheric conditions—perfect for unforgettable photography.
The longest South Georgia voyage
Spend 15 days exploring rugged coastlines, vast penguin colonies (king, macaroni, and gentoo), elephant seal harems, and pristine beaches on the most in-depth expedition available.
Shackleton’s legacy
Follow in the footsteps of Sir Ernest Shackleton. Visit his final resting place at Grytviken, walk the same windswept shores, and immerse yourself in the island’s rich history of exploration.
Small-group discovery
Travel with just 42 guests for a truly intimate experience. Enjoy access to landing sites larger ships can’t reach, with wildlife encounters and landscapes free from crowds.
Photography-focused adventure
Excursions are planned around the best light, from dawn to dusk. Maximize your golden-hour opportunities and capture rare moments, with the flexibility to linger when conditions are perfect.
Iconic destinations
Explore South Georgia’s most celebrated sites—St Andrew’s Bay, Salisbury Plain, Grytviken, Gold Harbour, and Prion Island. Each offers its own mix of history, wildlife, and breathtaking scenery, with time to explore in depth.
We don’t follow a fixed itinerary
We believe a true expedition should be guided by nature, not a strict schedule. That’s why we don’t follow a fixed itinerary. Instead, we embrace spontaneity and make the most of every opportunity the ice, weather, and wildlife present. The thrill of exploring the unknown is always more rewarding than a journey set on rails.
Our published itinerary serves only as a guide. Daily activities may change depending on conditions, site availability, and permits. All landings are carried out responsibly and in full accordance with IAATO regulations.
Day 1 – Departure from Port Stanley
Begin your adventure in the tiny port town of Port Stanley, Falkland Islands. In the afternoon we set sail across the Scotia Sea toward South Georgia. From the deck, watch wandering albatrosses glide effortlessly beside the ship and keep an eye out for dolphins playing in the wake.
Days 2–3 – Crossing the Scotia Sea
Crossing the Scotia Sea is part of the adventure. Spend time on deck with your camera, capturing seabirds and dramatic seascapes. Between photographic opportunities, enjoy expert-led talks and workshops on South Georgia’s wildlife, history, and geology. By day three, the first snow-covered peaks of South Georgia appear on the horizon—an unforgettable sight.
Days 4–7 – South Georgia’s Dramatic Coastlines
South Georgia is home to some of the world’s most spectacular wildlife and rugged landscapes. Each day, we’ll make Zodiac landings to explore its dramatic coastline and thriving colonies. With over 450,000 king penguins, the island boasts some of the planet’s greatest concentrations. Flexible scheduling allows us to visit iconic sites such as St Andrew’s Bay, Salisbury Plain, and Gold Harbour—at the very best times for photography.
Days 8–12 – Remote Corners and Shackleton’s Legacy
These days take us deeper into South Georgia’s wildest places. Zodiac cruises bring us close to nesting albatrosses on Prion Island, and at Cooper Bay we may encounter macaroni penguins among the tussock grass. A visit to Grytviken reveals a historic whaling station and the final resting place of Sir Ernest Shackleton. The towering glaciers of Drygalski Fjord provide a dramatic backdrop to some of the most breathtaking scenery of the voyage.
Days 13–15 – Return to the Falkland Islands
As we sail back toward the Falklands, take time to relax, reflect, and connect. Expert guides share lectures on the wildlife, history, and landscapes you’ve experienced, while the open waters still offer opportunities to spot seabirds and marine life. Unwind in the sauna, share stories with fellow travelers, and relive unforgettable moments.
Upon arrival in Port Stanley, you’ll disembark after breakfast, concluding an extraordinary expedition.
Polar Athena
Refurbished and reimagined, MV Polar Athena redefines polar exploration with one of the highest ice-class ratings, offering serene spaces and an intimate travel experience.
Polar Athena takes you to the extreme. With the highest 1A super ice-class rating, she’s built to slice through heavy sea ice, while her compact size and just 42 guests on board—the smallest group size in Antarctica—make every journey feel personal.
With a small group on board, there are no lines, no crowds — just freedom and flexibility. Unlike larger ships, we can quickly launch all our guests into Zodiacs at once and explore off the ship in minutes. This agility lets us seize every opportunity at a moment’s notice, meaning you don’t miss a thing.
Born as a research vessel, she’s in a class that has built a legacy for exploration in the polar realms. Now, reimagined and refurbished for authentic, slow travel to the most remote corners of the Earth, enhancing the experience and fulfilling the needs of true explorers, while never compromising on comfort.
She’s the ultimate choice for true small-group exploration in the deep south.
Bridge observation lounges
Everyone is welcome, anytime! You’ll have the unique chance to connect with the crew as you spot wildlife together. In Polar Athena’s beautifully redesigned two bridge observation lounges, you can enjoy a fascinating, behind-the-scenes glimpse into life on a polar expedition as you take in panoramic views of the landscape.
On deck
Breathe in the crisp, fresh sea air while taking in stunning polar vistas from every angle from the raised deck. With endless views of the icy wilderness and wildlife, there’s no better place to connect with your environment and find those unique photo opportunities.
Lounge
Unwind in Polar Athena’s guest lounge, thoughtfully designed to offer both stylish comfort and functionality. Whether you’re attending an inspiring lecture or a daily expedition briefing, this inviting space is ideal for learning and connection. It’s also the perfect place to relax with a book from the ship’s library or share stories over a cup of coffee.
Restaurant
Warm hospitality sets the tone as you savour freshly prepared, delicious dishes in an intimate setting. Whether you’re enjoying a hearty breakfast before a day of exploring or sharing bottles of wine over supper with your fellow explorers, every meal on board Polar Athena feels like a dinner party.
Sauna and hot tub
Soothe yourself in the warmth of Polar Athena’s sauna or soak in the hot tub as you take in your polar surroundings.
Included in the price
Accommodation aboard MV Polar Athena
Photography guide
Lectures and tutorials on board
Zodiac excursions (MK V heavy-duty inflatable boats) for shore landings and unforgettable photography opportunities
Free use of ship’s Wi-Fi powered by Starlink
Full board (breakfast, lunch and dinner) all-day soft drinks, alcoholic beverages served with dinner
Rubber Muck boots for shore landings
All transfers included—from the airport to your hotel on arrival, between your hotel and the ship for embarkation and disembarkation, and from your hotel to the airport on departure day
Price
$22,995 per person in a classic twin cabin (based on twin occupancy)
$23,995 per person in a signature twin cabin (based on twin occupancy)
$27,995 per person in a signature single (based on single occupancy)
$27,995 per person in a classic suite (based on double occupancy)
$29,995 per person in a signature suite (based on double occupancy)
Classic twin
Location: Deck 3.
Size: 12.5 m².
Occupancy: Up to 2 guests, in two lower berths.
Features: A porthole window (i.e., smaller round window), ensuite shower + toilet.
Price: $22,995 per person
Signature twin
Location: Decks 4 & 5.
Size: 12 m².
Occupancy: Up to 2 guests, in two lower berths.
Features: Window (rather than just a porthole), ensuite shower + toilet, wardrobe and dedicated desk area.
Price: $23,995 per person
Signature single
Location: Deck 4.
Size: 11 m².
Occupancy: 1 guest
Features: Window, wardrobe for storage, ensuite shower + toilet.
Price: $27,995 per person
Classic suite
Location: Deck 5.
Size: 16.8 m².
Occupancy: 2 guests, in a double bed.
Features: Large windows, a sofa lounge area, corner desk & chair, ensuite shower + toilet.
Price: $27,995 per person
Signature suite
Location: Deck 5.
Size: 22.5 m².
Occupancy: 2 guests, in a double bed.
Features: Spacious lounge area with sofa, stylish corner desk, large windows providing scenic views, ensuite shower + toilet.
Price: $29,995 per person
In your cabin
- Starlink Wi-Fi
- 220v 2-pin European plug socket
- Complimentary toiletries
- Towels
- Bedding and throw
- Hairdryer
- Rubber Muck boots (provided by Secret Atlas for the duration of your expedition)
- Slippers
Not included in the price:
International flights – we recommend booking early. For excellent service and support, consider using our partner Exito Travel
Travel and cancellation insurance – we strongly recommend securing coverage to protect your expedition.
Additional expenses – any extra costs such as museum entry or optional activities.
What to bring
Gear:
– DSLR camera with tripod and remote shutter release
– A wide angle lens. For example, Nikkor 14-24 or Canon 17-40. Best lens for use in wide-angle scenes or architecture photography
– A middle-zoom lens such as a 24-70 mm
– A telephoto zoom lens, such as a 70-200 mm. 300 mm with 1.5 TC or 500 mm, 600 mm are recommended for wildlife and bird photography. Be sure to have additional tripod mount to this lens.
Wear:
– Waterproof and windproof jacket (consider the average temperature +5 – +10 C at nights and +8 – +15 C during the daytime)
– Waterproof pants
– Warm jacket and thermal pants
– Wellingtons or fishing boots
The full list will be sent by mail to participants.
Tour leaders:
Daniel Kordan
Landscape and travel photographer based in Bali, Indonesia. Partner with Iceland photo tours, instagram @Danielkordan with 1.8 Million followers, Nikon and Gitzo ambassador.
