South Georgia, a remote and captivating island in the northern reaches of the Southern Ocean, offers an unparalleled blend of natural beauty, remarkable wildlife, and a history steeped in exploration. This combination of elements makes it a must-visit destination for adventure travelers and photography enthusiasts alike.
EYOS is excited to be offering an exclusive book-by-cabin photo expedition to South Georgia in 2024 onboard Nansen Explorer, allowing guests to experience the exclusivity and small group size of a private yacht, while only booking an individual cabin. Contact info@eyos.com for more information, and join us for a journey through some of our favorite photos from this storied island for inspiration on how to capture South Georgia yourself.
South Georgia Photo Expedition aboard Nansen Explorer
26th October – 9th November, 2024
The island is a haven for wildlife, boasting one of the most astonishing displays of biodiversity in the world. The shores are teeming with millions of penguins, including king penguins, gentoo penguins, and macaroni penguins. These charismatic creatures provide ample opportunities for close-up encounters and extraordinary photographs.
St. Andrew’s Bay is home to the largest of the king penguin colonies on South Georgia. Researchers estimate as many as 150,000 mating pairs congregate there, making for an overwhelmingly beautiful sensory experience.
South Georgia’s allure extends beyond its natural beauty. The island is deeply entwined with the legacy of Sir Ernest Shackleton’s legendary Endurance Expedition. In 1914, Shackleton and his crew endured unimaginable challenges after their ship became trapped in ice. Through unwavering determination and leadership, Shackleton and his team navigated treacherous conditions to reach South Georgia, ultimately securing their rescue. Stromness, a now abandoned whaling station, was the final destination of Shackleton’s storied overland crossing to safety.
Visitors can hike the same path as Shackleton, gaining perspective on the sheer determination it required during the final stage of the rescue of his crew.
South Georgia sits at 54 degrees south, meaning that during the summer months, light extends long into the evening and begins early in the morning. This makes for incredible light and ample photo opportunities.
The island’s beaches are frequented by several seal species, including fur seals and elephant seals. Observing these animals in their natural habitats offers an intimate glimpse into their daily lives and behaviors. There’s also the added cuteness factor.
Albatrosses, petrels, and other seabirds call South Georgia home, providing graceful photo opportunities all throughout the crossing to the island. Photographers will delight in capturing these emblematic creatures against the backdrop of ocean and land.
Glaciers dominate (and shape) the landscape of South Georgia. The infinite shades of blue are a mesmerizing subject to photograph during the different hours of the day as the quality and intensity of light changes.
South Georgia was once an over-exploited whaling hub on the brink of catastrophe. In the years since this era, it has become a remarkable conservation success story thanks to the implementation of protections and regulations. This includes limiting the number of people ashore at certain landing sites on the island. Traveling with the small group numbers of an expedition yacht is a unique experience though; it allows for access to any landing sites on the island.
Extraordinary wildlife, rugged landscapes, and expedition history unite in South Georgia— thrilling subjects that make this remote sub-Antarctic island the ultimate photo destination.
RELATED
STORIES
Justin Hofman: Wildlife Photographer of the Year Finalist
Why We Love It: Nansen Explorer
