94-Day Pole To Pole: Grand Expedition

RANSFER HOTEL TO AIPORT REYKJAVIK AIR CHARTER TO KANGERLUSSUAQSteeped in history and bursting with contemporary flair, Reykjavík, the capital of Iceland, was founded around 870 C.E, marking the birth of the first permanent settlement on this island nation. Today, it is home to approximately 200,000 inhabitants, making up nearly 60% of Iceland's population. Reykjavík holds the title of the world's northernmost national capital, and it takes pride in its reputation as one of the cleanest, greenest, and safest cities globally. Its commitment to sustainability and eco-consciousness is evident in every corner, from its energy-efficient buildings to its pollution-free skies.

n October, 1941 the United States Army Air Force constructed an airbase at the site of Kangerlussuaq. It served as a refuelling stop for single-engine military aircraft being flown to Britain during World War II. From their last port of call, Goose Bay, Labrador, it was 1,600 kilometers (1,000 miles) to Kangerlussuaq until they could refuel. Kangerlussuaq fjord (‘Big Fjord’), is 170 kilometers (105 miles) long and was often shrouded in fog, providing a serious navigation problem for those aircrews.

Today, with the use of modern technology, navigation is no longer an issue. The landscape was ideal for the site of an airport. A large alluvial plain, deposited by the nearby glacial-outflow river, provided a perfectly flat environment for an airport. Kangerlussuaq is the largest commercial airport in Greenland and supports a population of 500. A little known fact, from 1971 to 1987, 33 missiles from various countries, were fired from Kangerlussuaq for upper atmospheric scientific research.

Named in 1818 by explorer Captain John Ross for the English astronomer John Pond, Pond Inlet is a town with over 1,600 inhabitants. It stands out as one of northern Canada’s most interesting, culturally rich, and welcoming communities. The town offers a glimpse into the life of the modern Inuit, with caribou antlers and skulls adorning private homes, and hides of seals, caribou, and occasionally polar bears drying on racks in the sun. The local market features parts of seal, whale, caribou, and a wide variety of fish. Wooden sledges, known as qamutiqs, now towed by snowmobiles instead of dogs, can be seen in front yards, ready for the first snowfall. The local museum and cultural center host cultural performances that showcase unique Inuit throat-singing, with dancers dressed in traditional sealskin anoraks and mukluks.

Disclaimer: This port is a clearance port on nearly all itineraries, however when conditions perfectly align, excursions to this port may be featured.

Sailing through the Northwest Passage is a rare travel experience that has been hundreds of years in the making. The passage — more specifically, a series of channels through the Canadian Arctic Archipelago that connects the Atlantic and Pacific oceans — extends approximately 900 miles from Baffin Island to the Beaufort Sea above Alaska. Your Seabourn ship spends nine days traversing this famed sea corridor, and while the exact route taken through the islands can vary, your expedition is sure to be one of contemplation and discovery.

The glacier-carved landscape here is dominated by sea ice, which is used as a platform by marine mammals such as walruses and Arctic ringed seals — as well as the polar bears that hunt them. Yet the region has experienced monumental change since Norwegian explorer Roald Amundsen first mapped the Northwest Passage in 1906, and the rapidly shrinking sea ice coverage now allows ships to navigate the route year-round — while also creating existential challenges for the animals that rely upon the ice for survival. Many of the areas you pass through were traditional Indigenous hunting and fishing grounds, and archaeological discoveries show that the Pre-Dorset people occupied this region some 4,000 years ago.

Highlights along the Northwest Passage include:

Devon Island: The world’s largest uninhabited island, located west of Baffin Bay, is known as “Mars on Earth” for its barren, rocky terrain and polar desert climate.

Beechy Island: This tiny island, connected to Devon by a thin isthmus, is the final resting place for four members of the doomed Franklin Expedition of 1845.

Cambridge Bay: A visit to this small Inuit town — the administrative hub for Canada’s Nunavut territory — offers insight into how people survive in such a remote and harsh environment.

Bellot Strait: Steep slopes, strong currents, and thick sea ice make this narrow gap between Somerset Island and mainland Canada a navigational challenge. (Fear not, though: if it proves impassable, your Seabourn captain has other options!)

INCLUDED EXPEDITIONS:

Zodiac Excursions

Get an up-close perspective of this icy realm on regular Zodiac cruises, navigating huge icebergs and glacier fronts while your Expedition Team members point out marine mammals and wildlife ashore.

Nature Hikes

Set out on foot to explore beautiful, tundra-covered landscapes with your Expedition Team members, who delight in pointing out delicate plants and flowers that thrive in this hostile environment. You can hike to an ancient Thule settlement of stone pit houses on Devon Island, and encounters with arctic foxes, hares, and other wildlife are always possible.

OPTIONAL EXPEDITIONS (whenever possible):

Kayak:

Join your Kayak Team for a paddle along the shores wherever your expedition stops. The chance to experience this wild, remote place from a water-level perspective is a rare and special privilege.

Submersible:

Delve below the frigid water surface of Arctic Canada in one of your ship’s custom-built submarines, exploring a plankton-rich realm where few have ever ventured — and fascinating discoveries are yet to be made.

Journey to the edge of the known world with an expedition to Ellesmere Island — Canada’s northernmost landmass and one of the most remote, pristine environments on Earth. Part of the Qikiqtaaluk Region of Nunavut, he northern edge of this Arctic wilderness lies just a few hundred miles from the North Pole and is dominated by towering ice caps, jagged mountain ranges, and ancient glaciers that spill into sapphire fjords. It’s also home to Quttinirpaaq National Park, the second most northerly park on the planet, where the silence is broken only by the wind and the occasional call of a snowy owl. Your Seabourn expedition voyage offers rare access to this stark and stunning landscape, where few humans have ever set foot. The island’s raw beauty is matched by its extraordinary wildlife: muskoxen roam the tundra, Arctic wolves and foxes prowl the ridgelines, and pods of narwhals and bowhead whales glide through the frigid waters. The skies are alive with migratory birds, while the ice shelves and floes offer a chance — if luck allows — to spot a polar bear on the hunt. This is true frontier exploration, with no fixed itinerary and every day shaped by weather, ice, and opportunity. Highlights may include: Zodiac landings on a remote Arctic island Scenic cruising through ice-choked fjords, in search of wildlife. Wildlife encounters in one of the world’s last untouched ecosystems Visits to historic expedition sites and Inuit cultural landmarks

Venture into the remote and rugged realm of Northwest Greenland — the legendary Thule region, often described as “the end of the world.” This is the Arctic at its most elemental: vast, silent, and sublime. Isolated from other settlements, Thule is one of the last places on Earth where traditional Inuk practices remain largely intact. Here, dogsleds are still the primary means of transport, and hunting — including the rare pursuit of narwhals from kayaks — remains a vital way of life. Your Seabourn expedition explores this pristine frontier over several days, navigating ice-filled fjords that are almost never visited. Highlights may include Qaanaaq, one of the northernmost inhabited communities on the planet, where the rhythms of life are shaped by the Arctic environment and centuries-old traditions. The coastline is carved by ancient glaciers like Sermeq Kujalleq (Jakobshavn Glacier), one of the fastest-moving glaciers in the world and a major contributor to global sea level rise. Icebergs born here can drift as far south as Newfoundland. The landscape is dominated by towering ice walls, deep blue meltwater lakes, and tundra plains stretching to the horizon. Wildlife sightings may include humpback whales, walruses, and Arctic hares, while glaucous gulls and snowy owls patrol the skies. This is Greenland’s true frontier — raw, remote, and unforgettable. Zodiac cruising among cathedral-sized icebergs Visits to UNESCO-listed Ilulissat Icefjord Cultural exchanges with Inuit communities Opportunities for polar wildlife photography

Greenland’s capital Nuuk, is a city of vitality and Greenlandic culture. It’s here that old traditions and modern influences combine to create a diverse population. Nuuk is the home of the University of Greenland with its 650 students and the Greenland National Museum with is its extensive historical archives and cultural displays. Also of interest are the Nuuk Art Museum and the Kayak Museum. The Art Museum holds a body of 300 paintings primarily featuring the work of traveling European artists, while the Kayak Museum houses a very impressive collection of sealskin kayaks and traditional hunting artifacts. The modest wooden frame of the Nuuk Cathedral, built in 1849, is a recognizable landmark on Nuuk’s skyline.

The site of Nuuk was occupied as far back as 2,200 B.C.E. by ancient pre-Inuit peoples from Canada. It was settled again in the 10th century by Viking explorers. The current city was founded in 1728 by Danish missionary Hans Egede. A statue of Egede stands adjacent to the cathedral.

EXPEDITION ACTIVITIES MAY INCLUDE ZODIAC CRUISES, NATURE WALKS, OR CULTURAL EXPERIENCES. EXPERIENCES IN POLAR REGIONS MAY ENCOUNTER ICY OR COLD CONDITIONS. WHEELCHAIR ACCESS AT CAPTAIN'S DISCRETION.

In 1576, English explorer Martin Frobisher sailed into Frobisher Bay in search of a route to China. What he “discovered” was a large inlet with numerous Inuit fishing and hunting camps along its shores. The name Iqaluit means ‘a place of many fish’ in Inuktitut. Although the Inuit people had been here for thousands of years prior, they hadn’t establish a permanent settlement. It wasn’t until 1942 that the first Inuit made Iqaluit home. They settled here to help service the U.S. Air Force base, which was used to ferry aircraft to Europe during World War II.

Iqaluit, the capital of the Canadian territory of Nunavut, has 7,700 inhabitants. Some 60% of its residents are Inuit. A highlight of a visit here is the Nunatta Sunakkutaangit Museum, with its beautiful displays of Inuit art, artifacts and dioramas of Arctic life. St. Jude's Cathedral, often referred to as the ‘Igloo Cathedral’ because of its unique architectural design, is likewise of interest to visitors.

Diana Island lies off the north shore of Quebec on the Southeast side of Hudson Strait, offering dramatic cliffs, nesting seabirds, and sweeping views of the Arctic Ocean. Its isolation makes it ideal for quiet exploration and wildlife photography.

Erik Cove is a secluded inlet near the northernmost tip of the province of Quebec, Canada, steeped in Arctic history and surrounded by tundra wilderness. Once home to one of the earlier outposts of the Hudson’s Bay Company, the site offers a glimpse into the region’s colonial past — the trading post here operated until its final closure in 1947. Today, remnants of that era still stand, weathered by time and framed by sweeping views of the entrance to Hudson Bay. The surrounding landscape is shaped by glacial forces, with rugged terrain and wide-open tundra that support a rich array of Arctic wildlife. Polar bears and belugas may be spotted offshore, while inland, ancient Inuit hunting sites speak to the enduring human presence in this remote part of the world.

Sailing through the Northwest Passage is a rare travel experience that has been hundreds of years in the making. The passage — more specifically, a series of channels through the Canadian Arctic Archipelago that connects the Atlantic and Pacific oceans — extends approximately 900 miles from Baffin Island to the Beaufort Sea above Alaska. Your Seabourn ship spends nine days traversing this famed sea corridor, and while the exact route taken through the islands can vary, your expedition is sure to be one of contemplation and discovery.

The glacier-carved landscape here is dominated by sea ice, which is used as a platform by marine mammals such as walruses and Arctic ringed seals — as well as the polar bears that hunt them. Yet the region has experienced monumental change since Norwegian explorer Roald Amundsen first mapped the Northwest Passage in 1906, and the rapidly shrinking sea ice coverage now allows ships to navigate the route year-round — while also creating existential challenges for the animals that rely upon the ice for survival. Many of the areas you pass through were traditional Indigenous hunting and fishing grounds, and archaeological discoveries show that the Pre-Dorset people occupied this region some 4,000 years ago.

Highlights along the Northwest Passage include:

Devon Island: The world’s largest uninhabited island, located west of Baffin Bay, is known as “Mars on Earth” for its barren, rocky terrain and polar desert climate.

Beechy Island: This tiny island, connected to Devon by a thin isthmus, is the final resting place for four members of the doomed Franklin Expedition of 1845.

Cambridge Bay: A visit to this small Inuit town — the administrative hub for Canada’s Nunavut territory — offers insight into how people survive in such a remote and harsh environment.

Bellot Strait: Steep slopes, strong currents, and thick sea ice make this narrow gap between Somerset Island and mainland Canada a navigational challenge. (Fear not, though: if it proves impassable, your Seabourn captain has other options!)

INCLUDED EXPEDITIONS:

Zodiac Excursions

Get an up-close perspective of this icy realm on regular Zodiac cruises, navigating huge icebergs and glacier fronts while your Expedition Team members point out marine mammals and wildlife ashore.

Nature Hikes

Set out on foot to explore beautiful, tundra-covered landscapes with your Expedition Team members, who delight in pointing out delicate plants and flowers that thrive in this hostile environment. You can hike to an ancient Thule settlement of stone pit houses on Devon Island, and encounters with arctic foxes, hares, and other wildlife are always possible.

OPTIONAL EXPEDITIONS (whenever possible):

Kayak:

Join your Kayak Team for a paddle along the shores wherever your expedition stops. The chance to experience this wild, remote place from a water-level perspective is a rare and special privilege.

Submersible:

Delve below the frigid water surface of Arctic Canada in one of your ship’s custom-built submarines, exploring a plankton-rich realm where few have ever ventured — and fascinating discoveries are yet to be made.

Located 24 miles (40 km) north of the Arctic Circle, Sisimiut is “rough, real and remote.” These three words cut to the core of Sisimiut’s reputation as an outdoor adventure-travel hub. It’s the second-largest city in Greenland with 5,600 inhabitants and was founded in 1756 under the leadership of the Danish missionary, Hans Egede. The name is Greenlandic meaning ‘place of fox dens.’ The area has been inhabited for 4,500 years, first by the Inuit peoples of the Saqqaq culture, Dorset culture, and then the Thule people, whose descendants comprise the majority of the current population.

One of the most picturesque towns in Greenland, Sisimiut is set in a tranquil fjord perched on bare outcrops of rock. Mount Nasaasaaq, 2,572’ (784 m) tall, is the backdrop for the town, where colorful houses of bright red, yellow, green and blue stand out in stark contrast to a landscape of gray and white. The Sisimiut Museum hosts a traditional Greenlandic peat house and the remains of an 18th century kayak.

Eternity Fjord, situated in the remote wilderness of Greenland, is a breathtaking natural wonder known for its awe-inspiring beauty and dramatic landscapes. Carved by ancient glaciers, the fjord is flanked by towering snow-capped peaks and sheer cliffs that plunge into crystal-clear Arctic waters, creating a majestic spectacle of contrasting colors and textures. The serenity of the fjord is punctuated by the occasional crack and groan of the icebergs as they calve and drift slowly towards the sea. This pristine and untouched environment offers a glimpse into the raw, untamed beauty of the Arctic, captivating visitors with its sense of timeless grandeur and an overwhelming feeling of being in the presence of an unspoiled, primordial masterpiece of nature.

We offer :

• Optional Kayak Expedition

• Optional Submarine Expedition

• Image Masters - Four Day Program

EXPEDITION ACTIVITIES MAY INCLUDE ZODIAC CRUISES, NATURE WALKS, OR CULTURAL EXPERIENCES. EXPERIENCES IN POLAR REGIONS MAY ENCOUNTER ICY OR COLD CONDITIONS. WHEELCHAIR ACCESS AT CAPTAIN'S DISCRETION

EXPEDITION ACTIVITIES MAY INCLUDE ZODIAC CRUISES, NATURE WALKS, OR CULTURAL EXPERIENCES. EXPERIENCES IN POLAR REGIONS MAY ENCOUNTER ICY OR COLD CONDITIONS. WHEELCHAIR ACCESS AT CAPTAIN'S DISCRETION.

Kekerten Island, located in the Canadian Arctic, is a remote and rugged Territorial Park in Baffin Bay. Once, this region was a settlement for American and European whalers, who focused on Cumberland Sound for their intense harvesting. The island is now uninhabited, serving as a haven for Arctic wildlife, particularly bird species, making it a prime destination for birdwatching and nature enthusiasts. Kekerten Island stands as a testament to the untamed, raw, and unspoiled beauty of the far northern reaches of the Canadian Arctic.

EXPEDITION ACTIVITIES MAY INCLUDE ZODIAC CRUISES, NATURE WALKS, OR CULTURAL EXPERIENCES. EXPERIENCES IN POLAR REGIONS MAY ENCOUNTER ICY OR COLD CONDITIONS. WHEELCHAIR ACCESS AT CAPTAIN'S DISCRETION.

Lady Franklin Island is truly breathtaking in its appearance! The rock here is some of the oldest on Earth, having been formed some 2.5 to 4 billion years ago. Barren, rocky and exposed to the full wrath of the weather, the island is home to breeding seabirds, ducks and walrus. With a bit of luck, it's possible to see Atlantic puffins and even the rare Sabine’s gull.

Monumental Island is home to nesting black guillemots and is a favorite resting spot for walrus as they may be viewed at numerous haulouts around the island. The elusive Polar bear patrols the ice-floes here in search of seals while a variety of whales feed offshore.

In 1845, British Royal Navy explorer Sir John Franklin, on the most technologically advanced expedition to date, vanished in search of the fabled Northwest Passage. Both islands were named by fellow Arctic explorer Charles Francis Hall as a tribute to the wife of Franklin and as a natural monument in memory of Franklin himself.

In 1845, British explorer Sir John Franklin, on the period’s most technologically advanced expedition, vanished in search of the fabled Northwest Passage. Monumental Island was named by fellow Arctic explorer Charles Francis Hall in memory of Franklin. Located in Davis Strait south of Baffin Island, it is known as Oomienwa in the local Inuktitut language.

This barren, rocky and windswept island is home to a variety of wildlife. Nesting black guillemots are the most prolific seabird. The Island is a favorite resting spot for walrus and they may be viewed at numerous haul-outs around the island. The elusive polar bears patrol the ice-floes in search of seals while whales feed offshore.

This is also an excellent location for viewing elaborately sculpted icebergs of all sizes and shapes. Numerous glaciers descend from the island’s high peaks, their crevasses appearing almost to glow an iridescent blue against a landscape of stark white.

EXPEDITION ACTIVITIES MAY INCLUDE ZODIAC CRUISES, NATURE WALKS, OR CULTURAL EXPERIENCES. EXPERIENCES IN POLAR REGIONS MAY ENCOUNTER ICY OR COLD CONDITIONS. WHEELCHAIR ACCESS AT CAPTAIN'S DISCRETION.

EXPEDITION ACTIVITIES MAY INCLUDE ZODIAC CRUISES, NATURE WALKS, OR CULTURAL EXPERIENCES. EXPERIENCES IN POLAR REGIONS MAY ENCOUNTER ICY OR COLD CONDITIONS. WHEELCHAIR ACCESS AT CAPTAIN'S DISCRETION.

EXPEDITION ACTIVITIES MAY INCLUDE ZODIAC CRUISES, NATURE WALKS, OR CULTURAL EXPERIENCES. EXPERIENCES IN POLAR REGIONS MAY ENCOUNTER ICY OR COLD CONDITIONS. WHEELCHAIR ACCESS AT CAPTAIN'S DISCRETION.

Battle Harbour is a historic fishing village located on a small island off the coast of Labrador in Newfoundland and Labrador, Canada. Once a bustling fishing port in the 19th century, it now serves as a living museum, preserving its rich maritime heritage and traditional way of life. Visitors can explore the well-preserved fishing stages, saltbox houses, and other historic structures that provide insights into the area's storied past. With its charming coastal scenery, quaint atmosphere, and cultural significance, Battle Harbour offers a unique opportunity for tourists to step back in time and experience the authentic history and maritime traditions of Newfoundland and Labrador.

At the tip of Newfoundland’s Great Northern Peninsula is the first known evidence of European presence in the Americas. Over 1,000 years ago, Norse expeditions sailing from Greenland built a small encampment of timber-and-sod buildings. Known as L’Anse aux Meadows, from French ‘bay of the grasslands’, it was rediscovered in 1960 and is one of the most celebrated archaeological sites in North America. It is most noted for its connection to the legendary Vinland colony established by Leif Erikson, and to Norse exploration in the Americas. Prior to 1960, it was believed that Christopher Columbus was the first European to land in America. Now it is accepted that almost 500 years prior, Viking long-ships sailed into the Gulf of St. Lawrence. L’Anse aux Meadows is the farthest known extent of Viking settlement in the New World. In 1978, the remains of its eight sod buildings were declared a UNESCO World Heritage site.

EXPEDITION ACTIVITIES MAY INCLUDE ZODIAC CRUISES, NATURE WALKS, OR CULTURAL EXPERIENCES. EXPERIENCES IN POLAR REGIONS MAY ENCOUNTER ICY OR COLD CONDITIONS. WHEELCHAIR ACCESS AT CAPTAIN'S DISCRETION.

The City of Trees welcomes you with a pleasant city crowned by the star-fortress of Citadel Hill, a National Historic Site, with its iconic Halifax Town Clock overlooking the downtown. The city rises from Halifax Harbour, still an important international port, however the area or wharves and warehouses known as the Historic Properties now host a thriving neighborhood of restaurants bars, galleries and shops. Outside the town, visitors are encouraged to explore the reconstructed French Fortress of Louisbourg, as well as the scenic lighthouse route and picturesque Peggy’s Cove.

Optional excursions available.

A classic golden arc of sugary sand at South Friar’s Bay, Carambola is home to the island’s most luxurious beach clubs and restaurants. Umbrellas, loungers and optional water sports abound for those so inclined. Otherwise St. Kitts has other attractions, including a number of lovingly preserved plantation great houses, the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Brimstone Hill Fortress and a scenic narrow gauge sugarcane railway.

IOptional excursions available.

Little Bay’s charm lies in its intimate and unspoiled nature, offering a picturesque escape that’s as peaceful as it is beautiful. The bay is framed by lush, verdant hills that provide a stunning backdrop, while the warm, crystal-clear waters beckon for a refreshing dip or a leisurely swim. Whether you’re seeking solace in the sun, indulging in a beachside picnic, or exploring the vibrant marine life with a snorkel, Little Bay offers a perfect blend of relaxation and natural wonder.

Optional excursions available.

This is the island’s yachting center, quieter and less crowded than the main port of Castries. You can visit the island’s “drive-in” volcano at Soufriere, view the iconic peaks of the Pitons or perhaps snorkel at Pigeon Island, one of Jacques Cousteau’s favorite dive spots.

Optional excursions available.

Bridgetown, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is a refined capital city that elegantly showcases its four centuries of British lineage. This charming island was initially inhabited by Amerindian communities 1,500 years ago, but in the 17th century, Barbados emerged as one of the most prolific sugarcane producers worldwide. At its zenith, the revenue from this sweet crop surpassed the combined income of all other British colonies.

A stroll through Bridgetown is a journey through time. From the statue of Admiral Horatio Nelson to the stately Parliament Buildings, the imposing St Michaels Cathedral and St Mary’s church, and the tranquil Jubilee Gardens, each step is steeped in history. Your exploration continues over the picturesque Chamberlain Bridge and along a scenic seaside boardwalk, leading you to an array of exquisite shoreline cafes and restaurants.

Witness the ancient Baobab trees in Queen's Park — the Caribbean's largest — standing as silent sentinels to the island's vibrant past. Take time to unwind on a peaceful beach, delve into the history of a plantation, encounter majestic sea turtles, and even indulge in a tasting at one of the island's famed rum distilleries.

Optional excursions available.

At the southernmost fringe of the Caribbean Sea, the independent Republic of Trinidad and Tobago is a cultural mosaic with roots tracing back to Spain, Africa, India, and the indigenous communities that called these islands home long before European settlers arrived.

INCLUDED SHORE EXCURSIONS:
Option 1: Port of Spain Panorama & Angostura Distillery Experience
A half-day exploration encompassing the highlights of the Port of Spain, culminating in a visit to the renowned Angostura Distillery. Enjoy a picturesque drive passing some of the city's most iconic sites, then ascend to Lady Young Lookout for panoramic views of the city below. Your journey continues to the celebrated House of Angostura, the cradle of Trinidad’s prime rum. Here, you'll delve into the complexities of rum production and gain insight into the creation of two of the Caribbean’s most venerated rum brands - Fernandes and Old Oak.

Option 2: Caroni Swamp Bird Sanctuary:
A sunset tour of the Caroni Nature Sanctuary, a globally lauded natural wonder. A short drive from Port of Spain transports us to this maze of mangrove-bordered waterway. Board a spacious flat-bottomed boat and glide through this serene, picturesque wetland. The pièce de résistance is the Scarlet Ibis, the nation’s emblematic bird that nests and feeds in this sanctuary. Dressed in a vivid red plumage with black-tipped wings, these birds create a mesmerizing spectacle at sunset, when hundreds, even thousands, descend upon the swamp to roost in the mangrove trees.

Before they were a notorious penal colony, the Îles du Salut (Islands of Salvation) provided French colonists with a welcome escape from the fever-ridden jungles of the Guiana mainland. Lying ten miles off the coastline, and swept by treacherous ocean currents, the trio of small islands provided a perfect isolated location for incarcerating criminals without danger or expense, since the shark-infested sea and the trackless jungles ashore precluded any possibility of escape.

All three islands, popularly known as Devil's Island, were used as a prison from 1852 to 1953.

INCLUDED EXPEDITIONS:​
Devil's Island Tour:
Although the group is commonly called ""Devil´s Island"", visitations are permitted only to Île Royale and Île St Joseph. Join our expedition team to explore ashore and learn about the history and natural history of the area. ​Monkeys, Agouties and other animals have been introduced to the island and can be observed when visiting.

If you are a “pollywog,” who has never crossed the line at sea, you will be expected to undergo a mock trial by King Neptune and his court for the entertainment of the “shellbacks” who have already done so. Mild but hilarious indignities will be conjured, and in the end a good time will be had by most, if not all.

Fortaleza, in the northeastern state of Ceara, is one of Brazil's chief seaports. Among the wealth of exports passing through its harbor are cotton, beans, rice, sugar, fruit, and of course, coffee. Lovely beaches shaded by coconut palms and some of the finest handicrafts Brazil has to offer are among the city's appealing attractions. Explore the highlights of the region along with some of its traditional activities.

Natal is the capital of Rio Grande do Norte, a Brazilian state located in the country’s northeast. The city lies near the mouth of the Potenji (Potengi) River along the Atlantic coast, and its sun-kissed shores are lined with gorgeous white-sand beaches and towering dunes. The 16th-century Forte dos Reis Magos is an imposing, star-shaped fortress that marks the place where Natal was officially founded by the Portuguese on December 25, 1599 (Natal is Portuguese for “Christmas”). Ribeira and Cidade Alta, the city’s oldest neighborhoods, invite with an array of handsome colonial and Victorian buildings, many of which are now adorned with colorful murals. Natal’s vibrant Afro-Brazilian culture gave birth to the capoeira circle, an intoxicating blend of martial arts, acrobatics, dance, and music that UNESCO designated as a living expression of Intangible Cultural Heritage. You might see capoeira groups performing on one of the city’s popular beaches like Ponta Negra; browse the nearby handicraft market for unique ceramics, musical instruments, textiles, and wooden sculptures. Head to Genipabu (Jenipabu) to ride a camel, go sand surfing, or drive a buggy around its huge complex of sand dunes.

If Rio is the heart of Brazil and Sao Paulo is its brain, Salvador is its spirit. It was here in 1549 that the Portuguese founded the capital city and chief port of their new colony. Vast fortunes were made through the slave trade, and the introduction of a large African population had an important effect on the local culture. Salvador is built in two levels, with the most appealing being the upper city, the lovely colonial neighborhood of Pelourinho, which in recent years has been completely restored to its former glory.

Buzios is on everyone’s top ten most beautiful places list. With dozens of gorgeous beaches, warm, clear waters, lush tropical vegetation and a wealth of opportunities for active or relaxing play, it earns the spot easily. The place thrives on pleasing visitors, and you’ll be no exception.

The tiny harbor town of Parati (Paraty) is a colonial-era charmer, overlooking a protected bay along Brazil’s Costa Verde, “the Green Coast.” Founded by the Portuguese in 1597, Parati flourished as a transportation hub during the 17th and 18th centuries after gold was discovered in the state of Minas Gerais. The port was all but forgotten after Brazil declared its independence in 1822; today, its time-warp Old Town — designated a UNESCO World Heritage site in 2019 — the largest concentration of colonial architecture in the country. Spend some time wandering its pedestrianized cobblestone streets, admiring the elegant churches and whitewashed buildings with colorful trim. Forte Defensor Perpétuo — in the 18th century to protect the town from pirates — features a small museum and mesmerizing views. The historic Caminho do Ouro or Gold Trail is a 1,200-mile-long thoroughfare laid by slaves that connected Minas Gerais with neighboring states; you can follow a stretch from Parati through lush Atlantic rainforest in Serra da Bocaina National Park, stopping at a series of waterfalls and freshwater pools.

The harbour of Rio de Janeiro, cradled by the southern contours of Guanabara Bay under the majestic shadows of Corcovado and Sugarloaf mountains, is one of the world's most unique and awe-inspiring ports. As you approach by sea, Sugarloaf Mountain is your welcoming beacon, inviting you to experience the exhilarating cable-car ride to its summit for a panoramic view of the city and its famed beaches: Copacabana, Tijuca, Ipanema, and Leblon.

Rio de Janeiro vibrates with the rhythm and vitality of its renowned Carnavál Sambadrome parades, regardless of when you choose to visit. The city enjoys UNESCO World Heritage status, recognized as the "Carioca Landscapes, Between the Mountain and the Sea." Your exploration of Rio wouldn't be complete without visiting certain landmarks: the ascent to Sugarloaf, the lush Tijuca Rainforest Park, the towering Christ the Redeemer statue on Corcovado, and for football aficionados, the legendary Maracanä Stadium.

Days at Sea: 63,65,66 & 70.

Tucked between Brazil and Argentina, the Republic of Uruguay decidedly holds its own with unique traditions and identity. Despite being South America's second smallest nation, Uruguay feels like a vibrant city enveloped by expansive ranchlands. Often dubbed as the "Switzerland of South America," Montevideo mirrors Switzerland's discreet banking system.

INCLUDED SHORE EXCURSIONS:
OPTION 1: Montevideo Highlights & Tango Experience
Immerse yourself in the beauty of Montevideo on a scenic drive. Witness historic landmarks and monuments, then visit the Mercado Agricola, a bustling farmer's market teeming with local charm. End your day with a stirring tango performance at Baar Fun Fun, a venue steeped in over 80 years of history.

OPTION 2: Montevideo Old Town Walk & Tango Show
Explore the architectural wonders of Montevideo on foot. Discover the eclectic mix of styles in the city, then experience the passion of Uruguayan dance at Baar Fun Fun.

*Experiences subject to change.

There is nowhere else in the world like the Falkland Islands. This archipelago is a remote, wind-swept place of stunning landscapes, dazzling white sand beaches, magnificent wildlife, and a rather gregarious mix of people. Over 200 islands surround the two main islands of West and East Falkland. These isolated and treeless shores are home to an overwhelming abundance of birdlife: albatross, penguins, caracaras, geese, and many others. Perhaps it was the very remoteness of the islands; the allure of its barren landscapes, pure in their austerity and colorful in their details, and the immensely large open skies that attracted settlers to its shores long ago, the islands have an accumulated a wealth of maritime and military history. More than three hundred shipwrecks litter its shores, while the stark white crosses of both British and Argentine soldiers stand as a silent reminder to the war of 1982. Numerous claims for the islands have been put forward in the course of their history. Nowadays the Falkland Islands are a self-governing British Overseas Territory.

Included Falkland Islands Walks Ashore

Join the Expedition team for a Zodiac landing and a walk ashore in potential locations such as West Point Island, Saunders Island, Carcass Island or Steeple Jason to explore the remarkable Falkland Islands. Actual destinations will vary.

West Point Island: On West Point Island, albatrosses have long captured the imagination of sailors, roaming the vast oceans, embracing storms and winds far from the safety of land, so at ease in the vilest sea conditions. In summer, a large colony of black-browed albatrosses forms to breed here, alongside rockhopper penguins residing between the rocky ledges and among the tussock grasses. Fur seals and sea lions congregate in testy proximity on the shoreline, while dolphins zip effortlessly about the small harbor. Lily and Roddy Napier own and operate West Point Island as a traditional sheep farm. Step inside their modest farmhouse for perhaps the most remote cup of tea you will ever enjoy.

Saunders Island: Wild and remote Saunders Island was the site of the earliest British settlement in the Falklands. Port Egmont was founded in 1765, and its small population remains dedicated to traditional sheep farming. Join the Expedition team for a Zodiac landing here, venturing into a remarkable wilderness that offers incredible close-range wildlife encounters. Various penguin species — king, macaroni, gentoo, rockhopper and Magellanic — nest and raise their young despite the presence of elephant seals, black-browed albatrosses, and a whole range of Falkland wildlife. Additionally, five hundred steamer ducks, white-bridled finches, and 22,000 black-browed albatross breed on the island. Dolphins often visit the harbor, while southern right whales are often spotted offshore.

Carcass Island: Named for the 18th-century Infernal-class Royal Navy bomb vessel HMS Carcass, Carcass Island lies to the northwest of the Falkland archipelago. It is a predator-free wildlife haven, whose sandy bays, rocky points, and steep cliffs are home to the endemic Cobb's wren, Gentoo and Magellanic penguins, ruddy-headed geese, and freshwater wildfowl. More than a hundred plant species cloak the island in green. Offshore, pint-sized Commerson's dolphins joyfully race each other through inky waters.

Steeple Jason Island: Steeple Jason boasts some of the most breathtaking landscapes in town — twin pinnacles rising sharply to 1,000 feet, both separated and connected by a low-lying saddle of tussock-covered rock. Highly prized for its abundance of wildlife, Steeple Jason is not easy to reach, but it's worth persevering, as it is home to the largest colony of black-browed albatross in the world. Striated caracaras, skuas, and southern giant petrels make their home here alongside several colonies of Gentoo penguins scattered haphazardly about the island.

Please note: Included Expeditions cannot be booked in advance. The ship's Expedition team will communicate finalized content and departure information. Dress warmly in layers with a windproof and waterproof outer layer; bring a warm hat, gloves and a scarf. Life jackets are provided and must be worn. Wildlife sightings are likely but are not guaranteed.

The lonely lighthouse at Cape Pembroke welcomes arrivals to Stanley. It alerts ships to the treacherous rocks, reefs and shoals for which the Falkland Islands have long been known. With a population of over 2,000 people, Stanley is the largest settlement on the islands. Its gardens, tea rooms, brightly colored houses and hotels lend it a slightly Victorian feel, seemingly suspended in time. The Anglican Cathedral, the southernmost in the world, stands prominently on Stanley’s waterfront.

The Falklands’ unique abundance of wildlife is evident in Stanley. Dolphins visit its harbor, while steamer ducks, kelp gulls, and other birds abound on shore. Southern sea lions can be spotted basking in the sun. Southern giant petrels often fly through town, oblivious to the human presence. Founded in the 1840s, the town was named after Edward Smith-Stanley, Earl of Derby, who never visited the islands.

INCLUDED SHORE EXCURSION: Bluff Cove Lagoon: Penguins & Tea

Discover breeding King and Gentoo penguins and the abundant bird species of the Falkland Islands on this scenic, off-road excursion to the privately-owned Bluff Cove Lagoon wildlife haven. After tendering ashore, you will be met by the Bluff Cove team and set out with your driver/guide by minibus. A 20-minute journey takes you through Stanley and across the rolling hills to Bluff Cove Farm. Here, switch to a 4x4 Land Rover vehicle. Your skillful driver will navigate the rugged off-road terrain for 20 minutes to the Bluff Cove Lagoon penguin rookery. A knowledgeable and friendly ranger will accompany you on a leisurely stroll through the penguin colony, which features a scenic backdrop of a large lagoon and a white, sandy beach that is occasionally patrolled by sea lions from the nearby island. This beautiful, pristine reserve is home to more than 1,000 breeding pairs of Gentoo penguins which protect the growing colony of King penguins and their chicks. Magellanic penguins, which burrow on the nearby island, can often be found on the beach. Bird species that frequent or nest in the area include skuas, upland geese, ruddy-headed geese, Magellanic oyster-catchers, South American terns, dolphin gulls, flightless Falkland steamer ducks, snowy sheathbills and southern giant petrels, among others. At the legendary Sea Cabbage Café on the beach, relax over tea, coffee and hot chocolate accompanied by delicious home-baked treats such as scones with diddle-dee jam and fresh cream. Bask in the warmth and aroma of the peat stove while the enjoying splendid vistas of waves crashing on the sandy beach and penguins porpoising in. The Bluff Cove Museum, also by the beach, depicts life in the Falklands and tells the story of Bluff Cove. You can find out about the farm, the nearby 1863 ‘sugar wreck’, the 1982 war with Argentina and the fabulous lagoon wildlife. You will have free time to take photographs, stroll along the beach and look around the museum. A small gift shop sells unique Bluff Cove souvenirs, including Bluff Cove tweed items made with the farm wool, and postcards that can be stamped and mailed from here. Look for samples of knitted, crocheted and felted local wool work displayed on the walls of the café and museum.

OPTIONAL SHORE EXCURSIONS:

• Kelp Point Exclusive Wildlife Excursion

• 74 Days to Victory

The South Georgia Islands Group, one of the least visited destinations on earth, is a gem in the heart of the sub-Antarctic. Comprising of South Georgia Island and its smaller surrounding islands and rocks, this untouched paradise houses a rich tapestry of wildlife, thriving in a climate that is as harsh as it is beautiful. Despite the presence of ice and snow, these islands are remarkably green, their vegetation a stark contrast to the icy expanses of Antarctica. This is a Lost Eden where nature reigns supreme, teeming with an array of wildlife that includes vast colonies of king and other penguin species, fur and elephant seals, albatrosses, giant petrels, and other seabirds. Offshore, whales, orcas, and dolphins thrive in the nutrient-rich waters, making this the most diverse marine ecosystem on earth.

Your journey through the South Georgia Islands Group is carefully curated by your Expedition Leader based on local conditions and wildlife reports. You'll venture to historic communities like Grytviken, visit the sprawling breeding colony of king penguins on Salisbury Plain, and explore the rarely-visited, lesser-known sites nature allows.

EXPEDITION ACTIVITIES MAY INCLUDE ZODIAC CRUISES, NATURE WALKS, OR CULTURAL EXPERIENCES. EXPERIENCES IN POLAR REGIONS MAY ENCOUNTER ICY OR COLD CONDITIONS. WHEELCHAIR ACCESS AT CAPTAIN'S DISCRETION.

VISA REQUIRED

This is no ordinary day— with no fixed itinerary, the day unfolds like a secret whispered by nature herself. Depending on weather, ice conditions and reported wildlife distribution during your voyage, your Expedition Leader will craft a bespoke adventure, guided by tides and instinct for you to discover.

Included Antarctica by Zodiac & Walks Ashore

At the very edge of the world, hop into the Zodiacs with an Expedition team driver-naturalist for a journey like no other. Here, in the vast desolation of Antarctica, we'll explore among iceberg giants dwarfed by behemoth tidewater glaciers.

Zodiacs provide an astounding vantage point from which to experience this icy wonderland. Seascapes of wild blue, punctuated and pierced by mesmerizing ice forms sculpted by the Southern Ocean, captivate even those most widely traveled. Icebergs drift aimlessly, sheltering seals and penguins from killer whales on the prowl.

Some days may include landings. Whether a strenuous hike up to a glacier viewpoint or a short walk along a beach to admire penguins, the Expedition team guides your steps and your processing of this extraordinary moment. Both ashore and aboard the ship, biologists, geologists, glaciologists, and historians interpret this remarkable continent that teems with the hardiest of life.

Seabourn is a member of IAATO, a member organization founded in 1991 to advocate, promote, and uphold the practice of safe and environmentally responsible private-sector travel to the Antarctic. Potential highlights of your visit to Antarctica include:

Ice landscapes: The White Continent is etched and shaped by its abundant glaciers — raw power unleashed within a harsh landscape to soften and burnish its edges. Shades of blue and grey, set against a vast whiteness, create delicate patterns in the snow and ice. Expedition staff guide you ashore to point out the glaciers' activity and their icy footprints.

Penguins: Absurdly comical and utterly serious at the same time, penguins are a delight to watch. They waddle about, busily collecting rocks with which to build their nests. Here, they will lay eggs and raise their ever-hungry chicks. They create actual penguin highways, treading down the snow with their tiny webbed feet. The mission of the moment could be preening, courting, stealing rocks from their neighbor's nest to embellish their own, or even running away from their own chicks in search of a moment of peace — it seems every parent has limits.

Marine mammals: Crabeater or leopard seals rest on ice floes, and Weddell seals sometimes sneak ashore for a snooze on the sand. Watch for minke whales feeding on crustaceans and small fish, humpback and fin whales sifting plankton with their baleen mouths, and killer (orca) whales patrolling in search of unlucky penguins or hapless seal pups perched on the lip of an iceberg. These giants are not afraid of the Zodiacs and can often be sighted at close range.

Seabirds: Pelagic birds, such as petrels and albatrosses, soar merrily overhead in the Drake Passage. Years spent at sea make them happy, and gusty days are their best friend, allowing them to surf air currents and remain effortlessly aloft, through a process called 'dynamic soaring', so that they can watch us and delight in our presence as we do in theirs.

Human endeavors: The history of humans in Antarctica is brief. Research stations belonging to many different countries from all over the globe are manned — sometimes year-round and sometimes seasonally. Catching a view of these provides an interesting perspective on the world of science. Life for station workers can be easy and sociable or harsh and lonely, depending upon the circumstances. A few historic remnants of the whaling era can still be seen — the skeleton of a wooden boat tasked with delivering water to factory ships, mooring chains on the shoreline, or a rudimentary hut stocked for explorers. If you are lucky enough to glimpse these, consider them a last gasp of those who tried to commercialize this unforgiving continent.

Please note: Included Expeditions cannot be booked in advance. The ship's Expedition team will communicate finalized content and departure information. Dress warmly in layers with a windproof and waterproof outer layer; bring a warm hat, gloves and a scarf. Life jackets are provided and must be worn. Wildlife sightings are likely but are not guaranteed.

EXPEDITION ACTIVITIES MAY INCLUDE ZODIAC CRUISES, NATURE WALKS, OR CULTURAL EXPERIENCES. EXPERIENCES IN POLAR REGIONS MAY ENCOUNTER ICY OR COLD CONDITIONS. WHEELCHAIR ACCESS AT CAPTAIN'S DISCRETION.

Once deemed too harsh for European settlement, Ushuaia's rugged beauty was the realm of its native inhabitants - the Yahgan People. Today, it holds the distinctive title of being the southernmost city on Earth, often referred to as "the end of the world." Situated along the banks of the Beagle Channel, Ushuaia unveils itself like an artist's masterpiece. A mosaic of vibrant houses adds a splash of color against the dramatic backdrop of snow-capped mountains. Dominating this breathtaking panorama is Monte Olivia, its jagged peaks soaring 4,530 feet above the landscape.

The terrain transforms from dense forests of Southern beech trees at sea level to alpine ecosystems as you ascend. Thanks to its strategic location and proximity to the Antarctic Peninsula, Ushuaia has earned its status as the gateway to the Great White Continent. Yet, Ushuaia is more than just a stepping stone to Antarctica. It's a treasure trove of natural history, indigenous heritage, and the spirit of exploration. From embarking on awe-inspiring treks in the nearby Tierra del Fuego National Park to delving into the rich narratives at "The End of the World" museum, Ushuaia promises a plethora of experiences that cater to the curious and the adventurous alike.

Flight to Buenos Aires, Argentina

Ezeiza International Airport, the airport for Buenos Aires. Referred to as the "Paris of South America", Buenos Aires is considered as one of the most livable cities in South America. Although the bustling capital city has just under 3,000,000 inhabitants and a population density of 13,680 inhabitants per square kilometer (34,800 per square mile), it was rated in 2018 as one of the top cities on the continent for its ‘quality of life’. Buenos Aires displays through its architecture, a cultural past rooted in both the Old and New Worlds. A vibrancy for life can be seen everywhere. Crowded public markets, street performers dancing the tango, colorful graffiti-style street art, ultra-modern buildings, a dramatic skyline and a bustling port. Culturally, Buenos Aires has the busiest live theatre industry on Earth, outperforming New York, London and Paris. Every weekend, over 300 theatres are active with plays and productions.

Buenos Aires was founded in 1580 by Spanish explorer Juan de Garay, and has changed hands many times during its history.