Falkland Islands Cruises

The Falkland Islands are a spectacular archipelago located in the South Atlantic Ocean, renowned for their breathtaking landscapes, unique wildlife, and rich history. This remote paradise offers pristine beaches, rugged cliffs, and an array of bird species, including the famous king penguins. A fascinating fun fact is that the Falkland Islands are home to an impressive diversity of wildlife, with over 200 species of birds and a variety of marine life, making it a perfect destination for nature enthusiasts! Cruising to the Falkland Islands allows visitors to immerse themselves in the stunning natural beauty and engage with the local culture while enjoying the luxurious amenities of your cruise ship.

Major Cruise Lines Offering Itineraries to the Falkland Islands

• Princess Cruises operates a fleet of 17 ships, with 2 dedicated to itineraries that include the Falkland Islands. The Sapphire Princess and Enchanted Princess are particularly notable for their luxurious onboard amenities and diverse entertainment options. The Sapphire Princess features a spectacular swimming pool area and a movie theatre under the stars. Cruises typically depart from Buenos Aires or Los Angeles, providing convenient access to start your South Atlantic adventure.
• Holland America Line offers a fleet of 11 ships, with 2 focusing on the beautiful Falkland Islands. The Oosterdam and Volendam stand out for their premium dining options and cultural enrichment programs that give insight into the regions you’ll visit. Most departures are common from Fort Lauderdale or Buenos Aires, ensuring a smooth transition into your expedition across these picturesque islands.
• Norwegian Cruise Line has a fleet of 20 ships, with 1 dedicated to voyages that feature the Falkland Islands. The Norwegian Star brings a lively atmosphere with its array of entertainment options, beautiful dining venues, and water slides. Most sailings typically depart from Buenos Aires or Ushuaia, making it easy to embark on your adventure to this remote paradise.
• Cunard features a fleet of 4 luxurious ships, with 3 offering itineraries to the Falkland Islands. The Queen Mary 2 and Queen Anne provide a sophisticated onboard experience, complete with fine dining and cultural events. Cunard’s attention to detail, such as formal balls and daily lectures, makes each journey memorable. Departures often occur from Southampton or Rome, ensuring easy access to the alluring islands.
• Carnival Cruise Line operates a large fleet of 27 ships, with several dedicated to serving the quaint shores of the Falkland Islands. The Carnival Miracle and Carnival Legend are highlights for their family-oriented amenities and lively entertainment offerings. Most departures are typically from Galveston or Miami, allowing convenient access to embark on your cruise journey.

Luxury and Small Ship Options in the Falkland Islands

• Oceania Cruises consists of a fleet of 8 ships, with 2 focusing on itineraries that include the Falkland Islands. The Regatta and Nautica are celebrated for their luxurious accommodations and gourmet dining experiences, offering a personal and intimate cruising experience. Departures usually happen from Miami or Santiago de Chile, providing seamless transitions into the delightful charm of the Falklands.
• Azamara Cruises has a fleet of 4 ships, with 2 dedicated to voyages through the Falkland Islands. The Azamara Quest and Azamara Onward are noted for their focus on immersive shore excursions and extended port stays, allowing guests to experience the local culture fully. Departures primarily occur from Miami or San Antonio, ensuring a smooth transition into the beauty of the Falkland Islands.
• Seabourn comprises a five-ship luxurious fleet, with 1 ship offering itineraries that feature the Falkland Islands. The Seabourn Ovation is known for its exceptional service and all-inclusive luxury offerings, ensuring a comfortable and refined journey at sea. Departures commonly occur from Buenos Aires or Saint Martin, providing an elegant entry into the stunning Falkland Islands.
• Explora Journeys operates 2 ships, both offering itineraries featuring the Falkland Islands. The EXPLORA I and II focus on providing wellness and luxury experiences, ensuring relaxation while cruising amidst stunning island landscapes. Departures usually take place from Miami or Santiago de Chile, enhancing the journey into this magnificent region.
• Fred Olsen has a fleet of 3 ships, with 1 featuring itineraries to the Falkland Islands. The Bolette offers a classic cruising experience, perfect for those who appreciate a traditional approach to cruising. Departures mostly occur from Liverpool or Southampton, ensuring easy embarkation for UK travellers excited to explore the Falklands.

Top Harbours and Activities in the Falkland Islands

• Stanley – The capital and main settlement of the Falkland Islands, Stanley is a charming town filled with colourful buildings, local shops, and museums. Don’t miss the Falkland Islands Museum to learn about the islands’ history and wildlife. Take a leisurely stroll to the picturesque waterfront with its historic whaling buildings or enjoy a local dish of freshly caught seafood at one of the cosy eateries.
• Port Stanley Harbour – Known for its natural beauty and biodiversity, Port Stanley Harbour is ideal for birdwatching and exploring marine wildlife. Join an excursion to see the famous black-browed albatrosses or the native sea lions. If you’re lucky, you might catch a glimpse of the stunning Southern Right Whales migrating through the waters.
• Wildlife Spotting Tour – The Falklands are a paradise for nature enthusiasts. Join organized tours to experience the stunning wildlife, including penguins, seals, and birds unique to the islands. Many tours include trips to remote areas like Volunteer Point, where you can see King and Gentoo penguins up close.
• Gypsy Cove – Visit the stunning Gypsy Cove, known for its idyllic beach and penguin colonies. The calm waters are perfect for a leisurely afternoon stroll or picnicking while observing the resident wildlife. The area is also known for its stunning scenery and photography opportunities with dramatic cliffs as a backdrop.
• East Falkland – Trekking to East Falkland allows visitors to explore the natural beauty of the islands’ rugged landscapes. Enjoy hiking through this pristine wilderness, where you might see various wildlife species including the Falkland Fox. It’s also a great opportunity to learn about the melding of cultures as you visit various settlements.

Best Times to Cruise to the Falkland Islands

The Falkland Islands have mild summers and chilly winters, making them an appealing destination, especially during the warmer months. From January to March, summer temperatures can reach around 10°C to 20°C, making it ideal for outdoor exploration and wildlife watching. Spring (April to June) brings milder weather, with temperatures between 5°C and 15°C, and it’s perfect for those looking to enjoy fewer crowds. The winter months (July to September) can be brisk, with temperatures averaging just above freezing, making it less suitable for excursions. Autumn (October to December) offers a transitional period with temperatures slowly warming back up to 5°C to 15°C and a lovely spectacle of flower blooms as nature awakens.

Costs of Cruising to the Falkland Islands

A typical one-week cruise to the Falkland Islands usually costs between £1,000 and £1,800, depending on the cruise line and type of accommodation chosen. Luxury cruises often start at around £4,000 and may rise based on selected amenities and services. While visiting, expect to budget approximately £10 to £25 for meals at local restaurants, with drinks generally costing between £3 and £8, allowing you to savour local flavours during your adventure in this pristine destination.

The captivating landscapes, rich wildlife, and warm island hospitality of the Falkland Islands await. Now is the time to book your unforgettable cruise holiday through Cruise1st and embark on a stunning journey into one of the world’s most beautiful regions!