Penguins & Shackleton: 20-Night Aurora South Georgia Odyssey

If you can give it the time, this is one of the great expedition voyages anywhere. South Georgia, Falklands & Antarctic Odyssey sails 20 nights round trip from Ushuaia aboard Greg Mortimer, from October 25 to November 14, 2027. It suits wildlife lovers, photographers and anyone who has read Shackleton’s story and wants to see where it unfolded. Late October and November is early austral spring, when snow is still fresh and colonies are coming to life.

The first stop is the Falkland Islands, with two days to explore. The islands are known for rockhopper and gentoo penguins, black-browed albatross and the small capital of Stanley, if conditions allow a visit. Then comes South Georgia, with about four days on the island that many seasoned expedition travelers rank as their favorite place on earth.

South Georgia is home to vast king penguin colonies, with places like Salisbury Plain and St. Andrews Bay famous for them, and beaches crowded with elephant and fur seals. At Grytviken, the old whaling station, you can visit Sir Ernest Shackleton’s grave. From there, the ship heads south for four days along the Antarctic Peninsula before crossing the Drake Passage back to Ushuaia. The whole route is Captain’s Choice, adjusted for weather and wildlife.

Greg Mortimer is a small, purpose-built expedition ship with an X-BOW hull designed for a smoother ride in rough seas. Aurora is known for its expert expedition team, frequent Zodiac landings and citizen science projects. Expect several sea days on a voyage this long; they’re filled with lectures and wildlife watching. Ask us what your fare includes.

A voyage this big deserves careful planning, from arrival in Ushuaia to the right gear. Tell us your dates and cabin preference, and we’ll check current fares, availability and any promotions.

Frequently Asked Questions

What wildlife will I see in South Georgia in November?
Early in the season, king penguins, elephant seals and fur seals are commonly seen in large numbers, along with albatrosses and other seabirds. Exact sightings depend on landings and conditions.

How many sea days are on a South Georgia and Antarctica cruise?
Expect a number of sea days, including the stretches between the Falklands, South Georgia and the Peninsula and the Drake Passage crossing home. The expedition team fills them with talks and wildlife watching.

Is 20 nights too long for a first expedition cruise?
Not if you have the time and enjoy wildlife; many travelers find South Georgia alone worth it. If you’re short on days, a shorter Antarctic Peninsula voyage may suit you better, and we can compare options.