Into The Wild South: The Falklands, South Georgia & Antarctica onboard Terra Nova Adventurer
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Journey deep into the Southern Ocean at the very beginning of the Antarctic season, when the landscapes are at their wildest and spring is only just beginning to take hold.
Sailing from Montevideo, we first reach the remote Falkland Islands before crossing the wildlife-rich Scotia Sea to South Georgia. Here, snow still clings to the mountains as vast king penguin colonies gather along the coast and southern elephant seals arrive for one of nature's most dramatic breeding spectacles.
From South Georgia, we continue south towards Antarctica itself. Early in the season, sea ice can still shape our route, snow blankets the landscape and relatively few ships have ventured into these waters. It is Antarctica at its most pristine — and an expedition where conditions help write the story.
- Adventure and Active
- Birdwatching
- Bucket List
- Camping and Glamping
- Eco & Sustainability
- Educational and Learning
- Expedition Cruises
- Gardens, Foliage, and Nature
- Hiking and Trekking
- History
- Kayaking
- Off the Beaten Path
- Photography
- Private Charter
- Safari, Animals, and Wildlife
- Sailing
- Small Group
- Solo Traveler
- Unpack Once
- Whale Watching
- Yacht Cruising
Embarkation & Departure
Your expedition begins in Montevideo, where you board Terra Nova Adventurer and meet your expedition team and fellow travellers.
After settling into your cabin and completing our safety briefings, we leave Uruguay behind and set course across the South Atlantic. Ahead lies an extraordinary journey through the Falkland Islands, South Georgia and Antarctica at the very beginning of the austral summer.
Day 2 At Sea: Settling into Expedition Life
Our first full day at sea is an opportunity to settle into life aboard Terra Nova Adventurer.
Meet members of the expedition team, familiarise yourself with the ship and spend time on the outer decks as we travel south. Our lecture programme begins, introducing the wildlife, history and environments we'll encounter over the coming weeks.
Day 3 At Sea: Following the Seabirds South
We continue across the South Atlantic towards the Falkland Islands.
Keep watch from the decks for albatrosses, petrels and other seabirds beginning to accompany the ship. The expedition team will help identify the species we encounter and explain how these remarkable birds spend much of their lives travelling across the Southern Ocean.
Day 4 Preparing to Explore
Our final day of the crossing brings us closer to the Falkland Islands.
Presentations turn towards the wildlife and history of the archipelago as we prepare for our first expedition landings. Boots, equipment and Zodiacs are readied — tomorrow, the ship becomes our base for exploring ashore.
Day 5 Our First Expedition Landing
Welcome to the Falklands.
Weather and conditions will determine exactly where we explore, but today we hope to make our first landing and experience the islands' rugged landscapes and remarkable wildlife.
Penguins, seabirds and marine mammals all inhabit these remote shores, and we'll explore on foot and by Zodiac wherever the best opportunities present themselves.
Day 6 A Second Day of Exploration
We continue exploring the Falkland Islands, with our Captain and Expedition Leader choosing the day's programme according to weather, sea state and wildlife activity.
One day here can feel completely different from the next: windswept beaches, seabird colonies, sheltered bays and encounters with penguins may all form part of our experience.
Later, we turn east and begin our journey towards South Georgia.
Day 7 Into the Southern Ocean
The Falklands disappear behind us as we enter the Scotia Sea.
These aren't simply transit days. The Scotia Sea is one of the Southern Ocean's most biologically productive regions, supporting extraordinary numbers of seabirds and marine mammals.
Spend time outside with the expedition team watching for albatrosses, petrels and whales as we travel deeper into the Southern Ocean.
Day 8 Approaching South Georgia
Our journey east continues, and anticipation builds for South Georgia.
Lectures introduce the island's enormous wildlife populations, exploration history and extraordinary landscape. Outside, the wildlife watching continues.
Eventually, one of the Southern Ocean's great sights may appear on the horizon: the mountainous outline of South Georgia.
Day 9 First Encounters
Welcome to South Georgia.
Snow-covered mountains rise almost directly from the ocean, glaciers descend towards the coast and beaches can hold wildlife in astonishing numbers.
Today we hope to begin exploring this remarkable island by Zodiac and on foot, with our exact destination determined by conditions on arrival.
Day 10 Elephant Seal Season
October places us in South Georgia during one of its most dramatic natural events: southern elephant seal breeding season.
Huge males compete for territory while breeding beaches fill with seals. The sounds, scale and intensity can be extraordinary.
We'll seek the best opportunities to experience this spectacle while maintaining appropriate distances and following the guidance of our expedition team.
Day 11 The King Penguin Colonies
Today we hope to experience another of South Georgia's defining spectacles: its immense king penguin colonies.
Thousands upon thousands of birds can fill valleys and beaches beneath snow-covered mountains and glaciers. King penguins have an unusually long breeding cycle, so colonies may contain birds at different stages of breeding.
It's one of the great wildlife experiences of the Southern Ocean.
Day 12 History, Wildlife & One Final Adventure
Our final planned day around South Georgia gives us another opportunity to follow the conditions and wildlife.
Conditions permitting, we may also visit Grytviken, once a centre of the island's whaling industry and today closely associated with the story of Sir Ernest Shackleton.
Wherever the day takes us, we'll make the most of our remaining time before turning south towards Antarctica.
Day 13 South Towards Antarctica
We leave South Georgia behind and set a south-westerly course towards Antarctica.
The environment gradually changes around us. Temperatures fall, Antarctic seabirds become increasingly common and we begin watching for our first icebergs.
Lectures turn towards Antarctica as the expedition team prepares us for the next chapter of our journey.
Day 14 Following the Ice South
Today we travel deeper into Antarctic waters.
At this early stage of the season, sea ice may play an important role in determining our route. The Captain and Expedition Leader will monitor weather, ice information and conditions as we approach Elephant Island, then the South Shetland Islands and Antarctic Peninsula.
Then comes the moment everyone has been waiting for: our first sight of Antarctica.
Day 15 First Antarctic Exploration
Welcome to Antarctica.
Winter has only recently loosened its grip. Mountains can remain covered in deep snow, bays may hold extensive sea ice and the landscape has the pristine character of the very beginning of the expedition season.
Conditions permitting, we'll begin exploring by Zodiac and on foot.
Day 16 Among Ice & Penguins
Another day of exploration begins, but there is deliberately no fixed programme.
We may navigate among sculpted icebergs, cruise beneath glaciers or go ashore near a penguin colony. Early-season snow and ice can transform familiar Antarctic locations into completely different landscapes.
Where conditions permit, opportunities may also include kayaking, snowshoeing, hiking and photography.
Day 17 Following the Best Conditions
By now, the rhythm of expedition travel has taken over.
The Captain and Expedition Leader will assess the weather, wildlife and ice before choosing where today's adventure takes us.
Perhaps a sheltered bay offers spectacular Zodiac cruising. Perhaps ice conditions open a route towards an unexpected landing. Or perhaps wildlife changes our plans entirely.
That's the beauty of expedition travel.
Day 18 One More Day in the Wild South
Our final planned day of Antarctic exploration gives us another opportunity to make the most of this extraordinary early-season environment.
We'll follow the conditions and seek out the best experience available — whether that's ashore, among the ice by Zodiac, kayaking or simply stopping to watch wildlife.
Eventually, we turn north and begin our journey towards South America.
Day 19 North Across the Drake
We begin our northbound crossing of the legendary Drake Passage.
After days packed with exploration, today offers time to slow down and absorb what we've experienced — from elephant seal breeding beaches and king penguin colonies to the snow and ice of early-season Antarctica.
Day 20 Towards Cape Horn
Our final full day aboard takes us closer to South America.
Join the expedition team's final presentations, share photographs and stories with fellow travellers or spend time outside watching for albatrosses, petrels and whales.
As Cape Horn draws closer, we prepare to enter the Beagle Channel and return to Ushuaia.
Day 21 Disembarkation
We arrive in Ushuaia this morning.
After breakfast, say goodbye to Terra Nova Adventurer, your expedition team and fellow travellers, bringing to a close an extraordinary journey from Montevideo through the Falklands, South Georgia and Antarctica.
About Terra Nova Adventurer
Tried, tested and made for exploration.
Before joining Terra Nova Expeditions, the Adventurer sailed for many years as MS Expedition and G Expedition, carrying adventurous travellers into some of the world's most remote waters.
PROVEN POLAR PEDIGREE
She has crossed the Southern Ocean, supported Zodiac landings and carried generations of expedition travellers into polar regions. That kind of experience cannot be replicated by launching something new.
LOVED BY CREW
Some crew members have called her home for more than a decade. That continuity matters: her history lives on in the people who know her best.
A NEW TERRA NOVA CHAPTER
Refreshed cabins, improved public spaces and new guest amenities bring a fresh Terra Nova spirit while keeping the ship's character intact.
MADE FOR THE EXPEDITION
Her dedicated mudroom, Zodiac-ready layout, observation spaces and proven polar design are all built around one priority: getting guests out into the environment. Less cruise ship, more expedition basecamp.
NO EXTRA CHARGES. JUST EXTRA ADVENTURE, COMFORT, AND VALUE.
We believe adventure should be all-inclusive. That’s why every one of our trips includes a full range of activities — from kayaking, camping, trekking and snowshoeing, to yoga and photography — at no extra cost. With more time ashore and more ways to explore, our expeditions offer exceptional value. We also include complimentary Wi-Fi, drinks with meals, and all tips and gratuities — so you can focus on the experience, not the extras.
Note: Optional sailing activities operated by third parties may incur an additional charge.
CAMPING - Included
For true adventurers, Terra Nova offers an unforgettable experience: a night camping on the Antarctic continent — beneath open skies, surrounded by stillness, and immersed in the raw beauty of the White Continent.
Exclusively aboard St Helena, this unique experience is included in your voyage fare and available to just 40 guests per departure. You’ll camp using expedition-grade bivvy gear, with full support from our expert team to ensure a safe, comfortable, and awe-inspiring night on the ice.
It’s a rare opportunity to unplug from the modern world and connect with Antarctica in its purest and most powerful form.
Available on select departures only. Limited spaces — early registration is recommended at the time of booking.
KAYAKING - Included
Experience the adventure of a lifetime with a kayaking expedition in Antarctica. Glide through tranquil, crystal-clear waters surrounded by majestic icebergs and awe-inspiring scenery. This eco-conscious activity brings you closer to the continent's remarkable wildlife — seals, penguins, and even whales — as you explore secluded channels and pristine coves. Kayaking offers a profound connection to the untouched beauty of Antarctica, blending the thrill of discovery with moments of serene reflection. Guided by seasoned experts, you’ll navigate this unspoilt environment responsibly, creating memories of an extraordinary, immersive journey in the heart of the White Continent.
To be pre-booked, subject to conditions.
POLAR PLUNGE - Included
Take the ultimate plunge with a once-in-a-lifetime polar dip in Antarctica — an exhilarating experience that will leave you breathless in more ways than one. Offered as a thrilling optional activity, this icy challenge invites you to dive into the frigid Antarctic waters under the watchful eye of the expedition team. Feel the surge of adrenaline as you immerse yourself in pristine, icy waters, surrounded by towering glaciers and dramatic landscapes.
Whether you’re seeking a personal challenge or simply want to tick this daring feat off your bucket list, the polar plunge promises an unforgettable moment in the heart of the White Continent.
Subject to conditions.
SNOW SHOEING - Included
Snowshoeing in Antarctica offers a unique and rewarding way to explore the continent’s untouched terrain. With snowshoes fitted, you’ll venture across soft snowfields and gentle slopes, reaching remote areas that are otherwise inaccessible on foot. Led by expert guides, this low-impact activity brings you close to towering glaciers and surreal ice formations — all while helping to preserve the pristine environment. Quiet, immersive, and breathtakingly beautiful, snowshoeing adds a peaceful yet adventurous dimension to your Antarctic experience.
To be pre-booked, subject to conditions.
YOGA - Included
Discover serenity amid the icy expanse with complimentary yoga and stretching workshops aboard. Designed for beginners and intermediates, these sessions blend mindfulness and movement, helping you to rejuvenate after days of exploration. Led by skilled instructors, the workshops include guided stretches to ease tension and basic yoga practices to enhance your connection with the pristine environment. Held in a tranquil indoor space or occasionally outdoors (weather permitting), these sessions offer the perfect balance of relaxation and vitality in the heart of Antarctica’s untouched wilderness.
Subject to conditions.
PHOTOGRAPHY WORKSHOP - Included
Participate in an Antarctic photography workshop designed to enhance your skills while exploring the White Continent. Offered free of charge, the workshop includes a theoretical lecture led by an expert photographer, providing valuable insights into capturing Antarctica’s stunning landscapes and wildlife. The photographer is available to assist during landings and on the plentiful outside decks, offering hands-on guidance to help you frame the perfect shot. Whether novice or experienced, this workshop ensures an enriching and creative experience amidst the breathtaking Antarctic scenery.
Subject to conditions.
TREKKING - Included
Experience the thrill of Antarctic trekking, an adventure that brings you closer to the pristine wilderness of the White Continent. Guided by experienced expedition staff, this activity allows you to explore remote, snow-covered trails and dramatic landscapes that few have ventured to. Trekking opportunities vary based on landing sites and weather conditions, offering routes suitable for different skill levels. With every step, you’ll immerse yourself in the serene beauty of Antarctica, witnessing its unique flora, fauna, and unparalleled vistas up close.
Subject to conditions.
DAY SAILING - US $1295 pp
Step aboard Icebird, our private sailing vessel, for an exclusive day-sailing adventure available on select departures. Designed for just eight passengers, this intimate experience offers a rare chance to explore Antarctica’s hidden corners — from secluded bays and towering icebergs to wildlife-rich shores unreachable by larger ships. Led by expert guides, you’ll enjoy a quieter, more personal connection with the White Continent, sailing sustainably through its pristine waters. With limited space and high demand, early reservation is highly recommended. Please note: the exact sailing day is weather-dependent and will be confirmed during the voyage. We also offer Cruise / Sail itineraries for those wanting more time onboard Icebird which is limited to just 6 passengers.
To be pre-booked, pre-paid, subject to conditions. Select Departures only.
Tried, tested and made for exploration.
Before joining Terra Nova Expeditions, the Adventurer sailed for many years as MS Expedition and G Expedition, carrying adventurous travellers into some of the world's most remote waters.
PROVEN POLAR PEDIGREE
She has crossed the Southern Ocean, supported Zodiac landings and carried generations of expedition travellers into polar regions. That kind of experience cannot be replicated by launching something new.
LOVED BY CREW
Some crew members have called her home for more than a decade. That continuity matters: her history lives on in the people who know her best.
A NEW TERRA NOVA CHAPTER
Refreshed cabins, improved public spaces and new guest amenities bring a fresh Terra Nova spirit while keeping the ship's character intact.
MADE FOR THE EXPEDITION
Her dedicated mudroom, Zodiac-ready layout, observation spaces and proven polar design are all built around one priority: getting guests out into the environment. Less cruise ship, more expedition basecamp.
NO EXTRA CHARGES. JUST EXTRA ADVENTURE, COMFORT, AND VALUE.
We believe adventure should be all-inclusive. That’s why every one of our trips includes a full range of activities — from kayaking, camping, trekking and snowshoeing, to yoga and photography — at no extra cost. With more time ashore and more ways to explore, our expeditions offer exceptional value. We also include complimentary Wi-Fi, drinks with meals, and all tips and gratuities — so you can focus on the experience, not the extras.
Note: Optional sailing activities operated by third parties may incur an additional charge.
CAMPING - Included
For true adventurers, Terra Nova offers an unforgettable experience: a night camping on the Antarctic continent — beneath open skies, surrounded by stillness, and immersed in the raw beauty of the White Continent.
Exclusively aboard St Helena, this unique experience is included in your voyage fare and available to just 40 guests per departure. You’ll camp using expedition-grade bivvy gear, with full support from our expert team to ensure a safe, comfortable, and awe-inspiring night on the ice.
It’s a rare opportunity to unplug from the modern world and connect with Antarctica in its purest and most powerful form.
Available on select departures only. Limited spaces — early registration is recommended at the time of booking.
KAYAKING - Included
Experience the adventure of a lifetime with a kayaking expedition in Antarctica. Glide through tranquil, crystal-clear waters surrounded by majestic icebergs and awe-inspiring scenery. This eco-conscious activity brings you closer to the continent's remarkable wildlife — seals, penguins, and even whales — as you explore secluded channels and pristine coves. Kayaking offers a profound connection to the untouched beauty of Antarctica, blending the thrill of discovery with moments of serene reflection. Guided by seasoned experts, you’ll navigate this unspoilt environment responsibly, creating memories of an extraordinary, immersive journey in the heart of the White Continent.
To be pre-booked, subject to conditions.
POLAR PLUNGE - Included
Take the ultimate plunge with a once-in-a-lifetime polar dip in Antarctica — an exhilarating experience that will leave you breathless in more ways than one. Offered as a thrilling optional activity, this icy challenge invites you to dive into the frigid Antarctic waters under the watchful eye of the expedition team. Feel the surge of adrenaline as you immerse yourself in pristine, icy waters, surrounded by towering glaciers and dramatic landscapes.
Whether you’re seeking a personal challenge or simply want to tick this daring feat off your bucket list, the polar plunge promises an unforgettable moment in the heart of the White Continent.
Subject to conditions.
SNOW SHOEING - Included
Snowshoeing in Antarctica offers a unique and rewarding way to explore the continent’s untouched terrain. With snowshoes fitted, you’ll venture across soft snowfields and gentle slopes, reaching remote areas that are otherwise inaccessible on foot. Led by expert guides, this low-impact activity brings you close to towering glaciers and surreal ice formations — all while helping to preserve the pristine environment. Quiet, immersive, and breathtakingly beautiful, snowshoeing adds a peaceful yet adventurous dimension to your Antarctic experience.
To be pre-booked, subject to conditions.
YOGA - Included
Discover serenity amid the icy expanse with complimentary yoga and stretching workshops aboard. Designed for beginners and intermediates, these sessions blend mindfulness and movement, helping you to rejuvenate after days of exploration. Led by skilled instructors, the workshops include guided stretches to ease tension and basic yoga practices to enhance your connection with the pristine environment. Held in a tranquil indoor space or occasionally outdoors (weather permitting), these sessions offer the perfect balance of relaxation and vitality in the heart of Antarctica’s untouched wilderness.
Subject to conditions.
PHOTOGRAPHY WORKSHOP - Included
Participate in an Antarctic photography workshop designed to enhance your skills while exploring the White Continent. Offered free of charge, the workshop includes a theoretical lecture led by an expert photographer, providing valuable insights into capturing Antarctica’s stunning landscapes and wildlife. The photographer is available to assist during landings and on the plentiful outside decks, offering hands-on guidance to help you frame the perfect shot. Whether novice or experienced, this workshop ensures an enriching and creative experience amidst the breathtaking Antarctic scenery.
Subject to conditions.
TREKKING - Included
Experience the thrill of Antarctic trekking, an adventure that brings you closer to the pristine wilderness of the White Continent. Guided by experienced expedition staff, this activity allows you to explore remote, snow-covered trails and dramatic landscapes that few have ventured to. Trekking opportunities vary based on landing sites and weather conditions, offering routes suitable for different skill levels. With every step, you’ll immerse yourself in the serene beauty of Antarctica, witnessing its unique flora, fauna, and unparalleled vistas up close.
Subject to conditions.
DAY SAILING - US $1295 pp
Step aboard Icebird, our private sailing vessel, for an exclusive day-sailing adventure available on select departures. Designed for just eight passengers, this intimate experience offers a rare chance to explore Antarctica’s hidden corners — from secluded bays and towering icebergs to wildlife-rich shores unreachable by larger ships. Led by expert guides, you’ll enjoy a quieter, more personal connection with the White Continent, sailing sustainably through its pristine waters. With limited space and high demand, early reservation is highly recommended. Please note: the exact sailing day is weather-dependent and will be confirmed during the voyage. We also offer Cruise / Sail itineraries for those wanting more time onboard Icebird which is limited to just 6 passengers.
To be pre-booked, pre-paid, subject to conditions. Select Departures only.
