THE FALKLAND ISLANDS
Penguins, Whales, Icebergs – Just for Starters!
The Antarctic Peninsula is a finger of land that stretches northwards from western Antarctica. The Peninsula is the closest point of connection between the Antarctic mainland and the rest of the world, separated by a mere 1000 kilometers of ocean known as the Drake Passage. This rugged, icy region is one of the warmest and most biologically diverse parts of Antarctica. You’ll come for the bustling penguin colonies, massive whales, and glorious icebergs, but you’ll leave remembering so much more, as this ever-changing environment offers up unexpected discoveries on a daily – and sometimes hourly – basis.
- Area of the Antarctic Peninsula - 522,000km2
- Population of the Antarctic Peninsula -
- There are no permanent residents of Antarctica, and the population on the Peninsula varies seasonally. When research activities are at their peak, there are approximately 1000 to 1500 inhabitants; although in the winter months, the population drops significantly to only 200 to 300 hardy over-winterers.
The Heart of Antarctica
The Antarctic Peninsula is where most explorers fall in love with the polar world. Cruises here offer the perfect balance of comfort, wildlife, and adventure — ideal for first-time visitors and seasoned travellers alike. You’ll sail past sculpted icebergs, spot humpback and minke whales, and set foot on the 7th continent via daily Zodiac landings.
Why Cruise the Falkland ISLANDS
Departing from Ushuaia, Argentina, these small-ship voyages are the most popular and accessible way to explore the White Continent. The Antarctic Peninsula is where most explorers fall in love with the polar world. Cruises offer the perfect balance of comfort, wildlife, and adventure — ideal for first-time visitors and seasoned travellers alike. You’ll sail past sculpted icebergs, spot humpback and minke whales, and set foot on the 7th continent via daily Zodiac landings.
- Most Accessible Region: Shorter voyages (10–12 days) from Ushuaia via the Drake Passage.
- Abundant Wildlife: Penguins, seals, whales, and seabirds thrive here.
- Spectacular Scenery: Ice cliffs, glaciers, and the Antarctic mountains.
- Frequent Landings: Small ships = more Zodiac operations and exploration.
- Expert Guidance: Naturalists and expedition leaders enhance every day at sea.
Wildlife You Can See in the Antarctic Peninsula
The Antarctica cruise season runs from November–March – all months being wonderful – there is no absolute best time to visit the Antarctic Peninsula. Wildlife sightings do change through the season — in the early season Nov-Dec you’ll see pristine snowy slopes, active penguin courtship and dramatic icebergs. The high season January-February brings peak wildlife, lots of penguin chicks and longer landings. In March enjoy the deep light, quieter voyages, and excellent whale activity. However during the whole season you can see plenty of penguins, whales and of course Antarctica’s awe-inspiring mountainous scenery!
- Gentoo, Adélie penguins, and Chinstrap penguins
- Weddell, crabeater, and leopard seals
- Humpback and minke whales
- Antarctic petrels, skuas, and terns
- Albatross
Antarctic Peninsula Cruises
Booking Your Antarctic Peninsula Cruise
Book as early as possible for the best choice of cabins and departure dates. Choose from the many tour links on this page and don’t forget to sort and filter by ship type, price, departure date, optional adventures and other criteria. Expeditions Online offers flexible payment options, multi-currency booking, and personalized service from OVEREX. Get in touch with us anytime with questions and don’t forget to sign up for our newsletter.
