Description

An expedition to Antarctica, South Georgia and the Falklands is an exhilarating adventure of a lifetime. See massive icebergs in Antarctica, the wildlife spectacle of South Georgia’s colonies of hundreds of thousands of king penguins, and the vast albatross breeding grounds of the Falklands. Add to that the chance of seeing a once-in-a-lifetime phenomenon—a total solar eclipse.

Our three polar expedition ships aim to be positioned in the path of totality during the next total solar eclipse on December 4, 2021. While we will be in the right spot to witness the eclipse, which will last two minutes, the most important factor in viewing an eclipse is weather. Although clear skies are often experienced here, overcast days are just as common. The ships’ crews will utilize their state-of-the-art technology aboard to find the best possible viewing area, hoping to find an unobscured view of the sun, but nothing can be guaranteed. And, of course, our naturalist team and guest speakers will provide insight and background on eclipses and other astronomical features one might encounter in the Southern Ocean and Southern Hemisphere.

What is a solar eclipse?

A solar eclipse occurs when the Moon passes between the Sun and the Earth partially or totally obscuring the Sun and casting a shadow over part of Earth.

Why is this solar eclipse a special event?

It is a total solar eclipse, which is when the Moon completely blocks out the Sun, and only occurs when the Moon is at the point of its orbit closest to Earth, and when the Earth is at a point in its orbit that is the farthest from the sun. To see it, you must be in the path of totality, where the moon casts its darkest shadow, known as the umbra.

Do you need protective eyewear?

Yes! The only way to safely view a solar eclipse is through special glasses, which we will have aboard for all.

Is it possible to photograph a solar eclipse?

With the aid of some special equipment like solar filters, it is indeed possible to create an image of a solar eclipse. We’ll have a National Geographic photographer and a photo instructor aboard to help.

PLEASE NOTE YOUR VOYAGE RATE DOES NOT INCLUDE: Air transportation; charter flights Santiago/Stanley Falklands and Ushuaia/Buenos Aires;