South Shetland Islands
The South Shetland Islands are the first place you'll land after crossing the Drake Passage from Patagonia en route to the Antarctic Peninsula. The islands themselves are made up of 20 islands including Deception Island, Livingston Island, King George Island (where most fly-and-cruise trips depart). The South Shetland Islands were first reached in February 1819 and since then, have become home to Chilean and Argentinian research bases.
The South Shetland Islands really are teeming with wildlife and as such are included in all itineraries visiting the Antarctic Peninsula. Here you can expect to see huge penguin rookeries and several seal species lounging on land. On King George Island, you can see Adélie and Chinstrap penguin colonies, as well as Kelp Gulls, Blue-eyed Cormorants, Antarctic Terns and Southern Giant Petrels.
Find out more about visiting the South Shetland Islands on an Antarctic fly-and-cruise trip or browse cruises that visit the Antarctic Peninsula.
Photos of South Shetland Islands
Map of South Shetland Islands
Nearby landmarks
Trips that visit South Shetland Islands
Flexibility is the key to success in Antarctica. All voyage routes take advantage of the ever-changing opportunities provided by nature, crafting a unique and extraordinary experience each time.
Special Offers:Swoop has access to the widest range of offers and can help you find the right trip, cabin, & price.
With complimentary kayaking, camping* and snowshoeing included, this trip will appeal to adventurous travellers keen to take in the best of the Antarctic Peninsula. A comfortable ship, high calibre guiding and great value for money to…
- 12 Days
- $8,995
By sailing south across the Drake Passage then flying north in just two hours, this itinerary blends the adventure of arriving in Antarctica by ship with the speed of a quick exit. The risk of weather-related flight delays is removed…
- 10 Days
- $16,795
Fly over the Drake Passage in just 2 hours, both to and from Antarctica. Ideal for those wanting a high comfort level, but who have limited time or are anxious sailors. An outstanding program, successfully operated for over 15 seasons.…
- 8 Days
- $12,995
Looking for an Antarctic adventure without compromising on comfort and service? This stylish 139-passenger ship, with its cavernous suites, fine dining and compelling itinerary, offers a polished Southern Ocean adventure at a fair…
- 20 Days
- $19,795
An expansive adventure exploring the Antarctic Peninsula’s dramatic eastern side and the Weddell Sea’s vast tabular icebergs and infamous icescapes. Your compact 130 guest expedition ship is purpose-built to navigate these challenging waters. Optional adventure activities, such as kayaking, scuba…
- 12-13 Days
- $14,595
In homage to Shackleton, this trip retraces the explorer's legendary journey from the Weddell Sea to Elephant Island and across to South Georgia. A rare, shorter voyage, it skips the Falkland Islands and spends an extra day in Antarctica, maximising…
- 20 Days
- $23,195
Ideal for active travellers with an adventurous spirit. The voyage cost includes the chance to kayak past sculptural icebergs and spend a night open-air camping in Antarctica. Dip below the surface with a unique snorkelling activity and snowshoe past waddling…
- 15 Days
- $16,995
This voyage takes in the wildlife-rich wonders of South Georgia and the Falklands, as well as the dramatic landscapes of the Antarctic Peninsula. You’ll travel on board one of the most exciting new polar ships with spacious cabins, state-of-the-art technology…
- 19-25 Days
- $22,595
Explore the White Continent aboard one of the polar fleet's newest additions, a state-of-the-art expedition vessel combining adventure with comfort. As well as being limited to only 130 passengers, there’s a wide range of optional activities on this classic Antarctic…
- 12-15 Days
- $12,395
This fantastic trip covers all the must-see highlights of an extended Antarctic expedition. With 21 nights aboard, venture far south past vast icebergs to cross the Antarctic Circle before taking in the wildlife paradise of South Georgia's jaw-dropping king penguin…
- 23 Days
- $28,295
Travel with the pioneers of fly & cruise Antarctic voyages, flying in both directions and bypassing a 2-day sail on the Drake Passage. Regular departure dates (Dec - Feb) to choose from. Explore Antarctica aboard a trusty 67 passenger expedition…
- 8 Days
- $11,495