Photography expedition
South Georgia Photo Expedition
Spring in Antarctic 2023
South Georgia Photo Expedition
Spring in Antarctic, 2023
Start: October 14, 2023, Port Stanley Falkland Islands
End: October 28, 2023, Port Stanley Falkland Islands
Guides:
Dmitry Arkhipov,
Mike Reyfman,
Marco Grassi
Svein Wik
More professional photo guides could be invited to participate in the expedition.*
Sold out
* If you are interested in our program and would like to bring your clients on board, please contact us »
End: October 28, 2023, Port Stanley Falkland Islands
Guides:
Dmitry Arkhipov,
Mike Reyfman,
Marco Grassi
Svein Wik
More professional photo guides could be invited to participate in the expedition.*
Sold out
* If you are interested in our program and would like to bring your clients on board, please contact us »
Price from: 10 095 USD
Deposit: 33,3%
2nd payment: 33,3% (June 1, 2022)
Full payment: 33,3% (June 1, 2023)
Deposit: 33,3%
2nd payment: 33,3% (June 1, 2022)
Full payment: 33,3% (June 1, 2023)
We are taking the situation with the pandemic seriously and will be monitoring all advice given by WHO. If the COVID-19 persists, we will use updated guidelines to make sure we can offer SAFE TRAVEL for our clients and partners in 2023.
South Georgia is one of the places on Earth where superlatives are born. The Pinnacle, the Culmination of Creation.
A distant, isolated world, living by its own laws and rules. You won't find anything like that anywhere else. South Georgia is the best place on Earth for wildlife photographers. Landscape lovers also won't have problems composing the frame. A group of penguins or elephant seals will give a scale to the powerful background of snow-capped peaks and glaciers.
The archipelago is the home to hundreds of thousands of king penguins, which makes South Georgia the best location to photograph penguins. We'll bear witness to the daily lives of those incredibly interesting creatures, who, unexpectedly, are very similar to humans. We'll visit South Georgia at a time when the snow still on the ground and thousands of king penguins peacefully wobble along the shore — the sight of teeming bird colonies against the backdrop of sharp mountain peaks is truly breathtaking.
It is also the time when growing chicks gather in huge crèches. When the chick is old enough, King Penguins put it in one of the crèches, returning every several days with food. Both parents will leave at the same time. All the chicks in the rookery will stay together until their parents return. When the parents come home they recognize each other by the sound of their voices. Despite the thousands of youngsters crowded together, the parents are incredibly able to locate their youngsters by detecting their individual calls. The sight of a very serious adult penguin walking among very serious chicks is provides incredible photographic opportunities
Besides king penguins, South Georgia has colonies of very photogenic macaroni and gentoo penguins. The island also harbors large pipits, pintails, several species of albatrosses, such as black-browed, gray-headed, and wandering albatrosses, southern giant petrels, brown skuas, and Antarctic terns.
Wandering albatrosses are incredible birds and the opportunity to see them and other albatross species is making South Georgia worth a visit. The largest bird species on earth, whose wingspan can reach up to 3.5 meters (11.5 ft) wandering albatross can cover nearly 1000 km (621 miles) in a single day even flying against the wind. Photographing these magnificent birds in flight is a rare and exciting opportunity. In October, the aggressive Antarctic fur seals still mostly hunting in the sea, and we'll have easier access to the nesting sites of various albatross species, and the magnificent Prion Island - the breeding place of the wandering albatrosses will be open for visitors.
The southern elephant seals are the largest species of seals on the planet and a highlight among South Georgia wildlife. October is the mating season for elephant seals when huge alfa males define and defend territories. They collect a harem of 40 to 50 females, which are much smaller than their enormous mates. Males battle each other for mating dominance. Some encounters end with roaring and aggressive posturing, but many others turn into violent battles. Southern elephants are the largest of all seals. Males can be over 20 feet long and weigh up to 8,800 pounds.
You can only imagine what photographic potential brings the fight of such giants. Females give birth to a single pup and nurse it for approximately a month. Touching scenes of baby elephant seals and their attentive moms - one of the highlights of the South Georgia coastline in October. They are great fun to observe and photograph. After giving birth the mother will then move around to face her baby, vocalize with it (they bond vocally) and defend it from birds.
Each newborn weighs around 80 pounds — but not for long. The pups get right to work drinking their mothers' milk. The milk is super-rich and full of fat. In less than a month, a pup can balloon to 250-300 pounds, putting on a bulky layer of blubber by the time they are weaned. Weaners are always happy to see something new and not scared of humans. They always ready to pose for the portrait.
Why is it worth going with us?
- Photo expeditionThis is not a typical cruise trip, but a photo expedition that's led by the best tour guides and masters of nature photography. Our tour has been carefully designed for and by wildlife photographers.
- ShipSpecifically for the expedition, we've chartered a magnificent high-class cruise ship. Thanks to its high cruising speed, we'll be able to get to the archipelago faster and spend more time on location.
- PriceFor such a photo exhibition and a level of service, we have a great price.
ITINERARY
October 13 - 28, 2023
October 13
October 13
Arrival to Santiago
Today we'll meet in Santiago de Chile. Due to tomorrow's early morning flight to the Falklands, we advise participants to fly to Santiago a day earlier and spend the night at the Holiday Inn hotel located in the airport terminal.
October 14
October 14
Start of the photo expedition
Early in the morning, we'll board a LATAM flight to the Falkland Islands. After a short landing in Punta Arenas in Patagonia, we'll continue our flight to RAF Mount Pleasant in the Falklands. Upon arrival, we'll take a comfortable bus to Port Stanley where our ship will be waiting.
October 15 - 16
October 15 - 16
Crossing to South Georgia
M/V Sea Spirit
Although we far from the land, we'll witness incredible wildlife from the ship decks. A huge variety of birds, including several species of albatrosses such as black-browed, gray-headed, and wandering albatrosses, southern giant petrels, cape petrels makes photography from decks very entertaining.
During our sailing days, we'll have lectures about South Georgia and its inhabitants. Photography guides will share their secrets and show Antarctic portfolios. We can enjoy a glass of wine in a cozy bar, restaurant, or lounge. Contemporary, international cuisine created by our talented chefs is beyond praise.
During our sailing days, we'll have lectures about South Georgia and its inhabitants. Photography guides will share their secrets and show Antarctic portfolios. We can enjoy a glass of wine in a cozy bar, restaurant, or lounge. Contemporary, international cuisine created by our talented chefs is beyond praise.
October 17 - 25
October 17 - 25
Exploring South Georgia
M/V Sea Spirit
We are visiting some of the best areas for wildlife and landscape photography, such as Salisbury Plains, St. Andrews Bay, Gold Harbour, Cooper Bay, Drygalski fjord and other great places. Nine days on the islands of South Georgia will allow us to see and photograph most of its interesting inhabitants and landscapes. Nine days on South Georgia will allow us to see and photograph most of its interesting inhabitants and landscapes.
October 26 - 27
October 26 - 27
Crossing to Falklands
M/V Sea Spirit
During our return to the Falklands, we'll share our impressions, discuss the footage and spend time in the pleasant company on our comfortable ship! Albatrosses are still circling around the ship prompting us outside.
October 28
October 28
Back on Earth
After disembarkation at Port Stanley, transfer to the airport and flight to Santiago. Due to the schedule of international flights, most travelers will spend the night in Santiago.
South Georgia landscape
The map of the expedition to South Georgia
South Georgia
South Georgia
AN EXPEDITION SHIP
M/V Sea SPIRIT
M/V Sea SPIRIT
For our expedition, we chartered an extra-class vessel Sea Spirit. A properly selected expedition vessel is the key to a truly unforgettable journey in the Antarctic. It must have two main qualities - good cruising speed and the "correct" size. We managed to find this "golden middle" in M/V Sea Spirit. The vessel has a high cruising speed, which will allow us to get to the South Georgia Archipelago faster and spend more time there. Sea Spirit possesses everything necessary for safe and comfortable sailing in the stormy waters of the South Atlantic.
The vessel has an ice-strengthened hull, a fleet of Zodiacs, and a set of retractable fin stabilizers for smoother sailing while maintaining the maneuverability and special atmosphere of small vessels. A maximum of 100 participants will be welcomed aboard Sea Spirit for our expedition cruise to South Georgia. Unlike large cruise ships, aboard Sea Spirit will not feel like you are in a big city with a bunch of strangers. You will be a member of a close-knit group of like-minded people with the main goal of exploring the wonderful world of South Georgia to the fullest and bringing home fantastic photos and videos.
The vessel has an ice-strengthened hull, a fleet of Zodiacs, and a set of retractable fin stabilizers for smoother sailing while maintaining the maneuverability and special atmosphere of small vessels. A maximum of 100 participants will be welcomed aboard Sea Spirit for our expedition cruise to South Georgia. Unlike large cruise ships, aboard Sea Spirit will not feel like you are in a big city with a bunch of strangers. You will be a member of a close-knit group of like-minded people with the main goal of exploring the wonderful world of South Georgia to the fullest and bringing home fantastic photos and videos.
THE TOUR PRICE COVERS
* Transfer from the Falklands airport to the ship;
* Expedition on an ice-class ship;
* Accommodation of your choice;
* All meals on board;
* Tea, coffee 24 hours;
* Excursions per itinerary;
* Zodiacs for landings and photography from water level;
* Experienced photo guides;
* Expedition jackets and footwear for the expedition;
* Transfer to the airport after the cruise trip ends.
THE TOUR PRICE DOESN'T COVER
* Travel to and from Santiago, Chile;
* Hotel in Santiago on Oct 13th and Oct 28th
* Airfare from Santiago or/and Punta Arenas to RAF Mount Pleasant, Falklands (we will provide the info and booking assistance);
* Visa and passport fees (if applicable);
* Luggage and trip cancellation insurance;
* Soft drinks and alcoholic beverages other than those for special events and celebrations;
* Personal expenses such as laundry and onboard communication (telephone calls, faxes, and e-mail service);
* Emergency Evacuation Insurance to a minimum benefit of USD 200,000;
* Staff gratuities;
* Pre- or post-cruise travel expenses.
* Transfer from the Falklands airport to the ship;
* Expedition on an ice-class ship;
* Accommodation of your choice;
* All meals on board;
* Tea, coffee 24 hours;
* Excursions per itinerary;
* Zodiacs for landings and photography from water level;
* Experienced photo guides;
* Expedition jackets and footwear for the expedition;
* Transfer to the airport after the cruise trip ends.
THE TOUR PRICE DOESN'T COVER
* Travel to and from Santiago, Chile;
* Hotel in Santiago on Oct 13th and Oct 28th
* Airfare from Santiago or/and Punta Arenas to RAF Mount Pleasant, Falklands (we will provide the info and booking assistance);
* Visa and passport fees (if applicable);
* Luggage and trip cancellation insurance;
* Soft drinks and alcoholic beverages other than those for special events and celebrations;
* Personal expenses such as laundry and onboard communication (telephone calls, faxes, and e-mail service);
* Emergency Evacuation Insurance to a minimum benefit of USD 200,000;
* Staff gratuities;
* Pre- or post-cruise travel expenses.
To book a place on the expedition, you need to:
- Register online, and after receiving a confirmation from us, make a deposit payment of 33.3% of the price of your chosen accommodation;*
- Deposit payment of 33.3% of the price is due by June 1, 2022
- Final payment of 33.3% of the price is due by June 1, 2023
Booking Cancellation
All payments are non-refundable*.
This is dictated by the terms of the contract between the Organizers and the vessel owners.
*We understand that unforeseen circumstances may force you to cancel your participation in our trip. The full refund will be issued if you find a full-paying customer taking over your spot. Please let us know as soon as possible if you have to cancel and we will try to find replacement on your spot.
Itinerary Cancellation
Organizers reserve the right to cancel the itinerary due to insufficient reservations.
In the very unlikely event that the itinerary is canceled prior to departure, Organizers will provide a full refund of all collected funds. This refund will be the limit of the Organizers' liability. Organizers are not responsible for any expenses incurred by trip members in preparing for the trip, including non-refundable or penalty-carrying airline tickets, special clothing, or other trip-related expenses.
In case of cancellation of the tour by the Organizers for reasons related to COVID-19:
If the deposit is paid before November 15, 2021, the deposited funds are returned within a month from the date of cancellation.
If the deposit is paid after November 15, 2021, participants will receive a voucher for the amount paid for a period of 12 months with the possibility of renewal up to 24 months. If it is impossible to redeem the voucher within the specified period, the deposited funds will be returned to the participants.
Force Majeure.
Force majeure means any event beyond the reasonable control of the Organizers that is inevitable and extraordinary, including but not limited to natural disasters / adverse weather conditions, epidemics, pandemics or any other viral outbreaks, global health emergencies, pollution, public unrest / strikes, war, changes in laws or regulations, coercive measures by the state or quarantine, which make the execution of the route and services on board partially or completely impossible, give the Organizers the right to postpone / cancel the expedition.
The organizers will make every effort to suggest alternative dates for the expedition. All participants will receive a personal voucher for the amount paid. The voucher will be valid for 12 months from the original date of departure and can be renewed for another 12 months. If it is impossible to redeem the voucher within the specified period, the deposited funds will be returned to the participants.
Late payment.
If a participant is late in payment for more than 7 calendar days, all previously made payments expire, and the application for participation in the tour will be canceled.
All payments are non-refundable*.
This is dictated by the terms of the contract between the Organizers and the vessel owners.
*We understand that unforeseen circumstances may force you to cancel your participation in our trip. The full refund will be issued if you find a full-paying customer taking over your spot. Please let us know as soon as possible if you have to cancel and we will try to find replacement on your spot.
Itinerary Cancellation
Organizers reserve the right to cancel the itinerary due to insufficient reservations.
In the very unlikely event that the itinerary is canceled prior to departure, Organizers will provide a full refund of all collected funds. This refund will be the limit of the Organizers' liability. Organizers are not responsible for any expenses incurred by trip members in preparing for the trip, including non-refundable or penalty-carrying airline tickets, special clothing, or other trip-related expenses.
In case of cancellation of the tour by the Organizers for reasons related to COVID-19:
If the deposit is paid before November 15, 2021, the deposited funds are returned within a month from the date of cancellation.
If the deposit is paid after November 15, 2021, participants will receive a voucher for the amount paid for a period of 12 months with the possibility of renewal up to 24 months. If it is impossible to redeem the voucher within the specified period, the deposited funds will be returned to the participants.
Force Majeure.
Force majeure means any event beyond the reasonable control of the Organizers that is inevitable and extraordinary, including but not limited to natural disasters / adverse weather conditions, epidemics, pandemics or any other viral outbreaks, global health emergencies, pollution, public unrest / strikes, war, changes in laws or regulations, coercive measures by the state or quarantine, which make the execution of the route and services on board partially or completely impossible, give the Organizers the right to postpone / cancel the expedition.
The organizers will make every effort to suggest alternative dates for the expedition. All participants will receive a personal voucher for the amount paid. The voucher will be valid for 12 months from the original date of departure and can be renewed for another 12 months. If it is impossible to redeem the voucher within the specified period, the deposited funds will be returned to the participants.
Late payment.
If a participant is late in payment for more than 7 calendar days, all previously made payments expire, and the application for participation in the tour will be canceled.
Participating in this voyage does not require a high level of physical fitness.*
Please be sure that you can:
**Once on shore, you can walk for shorter or longer distances - it is up to you. Landing details will be given in advance of each landing.
Seasickness
Don't let a fear of seasickness scare you away! For all but the most sensitive, seasickness is rarely a big problem. It's a good idea to bring medication if you get seasick or are unsure, but you may find that you do not need it after a couple of days once you have your "sea legs." Even those who have experienced seasickness reported that the incredible wildlife and overall experience were well worth the temporary discomfort.
Please be sure that you can:
- Stay without medical assistance for the duration of the trip;
- Be sufficiently stable on your feet that you can, for example, stand on a bus/train in normal conditions without holding or holding with one hand;
- Get in and out of a Zodiac on a beach with a little swell;
- Walk several hundred yards on an uneven surface without getting exhausted;**
**Once on shore, you can walk for shorter or longer distances - it is up to you. Landing details will be given in advance of each landing.
Seasickness
Don't let a fear of seasickness scare you away! For all but the most sensitive, seasickness is rarely a big problem. It's a good idea to bring medication if you get seasick or are unsure, but you may find that you do not need it after a couple of days once you have your "sea legs." Even those who have experienced seasickness reported that the incredible wildlife and overall experience were well worth the temporary discomfort.
REGISTRATION FORM