Step onto the volcanic black-sand shore of Half Moon Island and walk quietly among thousands of chinstrap penguins nesting beneath jagged peaks.
What to expect
You'll board a Zodiac in layers of expedition gear, land on crunching volcanic sand, and follow marked paths past skuas and chinstraps mid-molt or mid-courtship. The naturalist explains breeding cycles and points out fur seals resting nearby. Weather can shift fast, so guides adjust timing on the spot for the calmest light and safest footing.
Good to know
Landings are weather-dependent and typically happen from a Zodiac shuttle, not a pier — wear waterproof boots and expect to be back aboard with a hard cutoff before the tide or wind changes.
Sail there
Luxury cruises that call at South Shetland Islands — book through us, the fare is identical and your concierge stays on your side.