Navigation
in South Georgia
Expeditions cruises on board sailing yacht "Le Sourire"
Crossing towards South Georgia
The voyage towards South Georgia starts at Port Stanley (Falkland
islands (Malvinas)). Few days are necessary to cover the 800 nautical
miles that separate the islands. The winds normally accompany the
boat when going towards South Georgia, but the way back against
the westerlies is sometimes more difficult.
West Cumberland
Bay - South Georgia |
Sailing
in South Georgia
The entrance formalities in South Georgia have to be done
at King Edward Point in front of the abandoned whaling station
of Grytviken where the museum and Sir Ernest Shackleton's
grave can be visited. Most of the navigation will be along
the east coast better sheltered from the dominating winds.
Only a few hours sailing separate the numerous bays and
creeks where it is possible to observe the incredible explosion
of wildlife in spring. It is very important to keep a distance
from the animals to respect their quietness, balance and
the security of the eggs and pups. Starting from the anchorage,
it is easy to hike in the valleys or mountains to enjoy
even more the beauties of this incredible island. |
Some
sites
Huge glaciers tumble from the tops of the mountains. Some
bays afford beautiful walks along crystal-clear waterfalls
close to the reindeer herds. Prince Olav, Leith, Stromness
and Husvick are old whaling stations but the only one open
to visitors today is Gritvyken.
Wildlife is everywhere in South Georgia and some places
are especially impressive. Elsehul Bay where it is possible
to cross to the west coast, catching sight of wandering,
light mantled sooty, black browed and grey headed albatrosses,
macaroni and gentoo penguins, elephant seal and fur seal
so numerous that they make landing hazardous. |
Gentoo penguins
- South Georgia |
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All these species also breed in the
beautiful Bay of Isles surrounded by an extraordinary landscape.
Royal Bay, Saint Andrews Bay or Gold Harbour have the largest
king penguins colonies. Some chinstrap penguins nest in
Cooper bay, announcing the fabulous colonies of the South
Sandwich islands, 350 nautical miles southeastward.
King penguins - South Georgia
|
When to sail? Climate and duration.
The best period to sail in South Georgia is spring and summer, from
october till march. The temperature oscillates between +5 and +15°C.
The climate is humid and windy on the west coast but much drier
and quieter in the eastern part of the island protected by the mountains.
Duration: Minimum 5 weeks from Port Stanley (Falklands).
Approximately 5 days crossing to reach South Georgia and between
5 and 7 to come back. Longer trips could allow other options like
for example: to sail the western coast, to organise mountaineering
expeditions or to follow Shackleton's path crossing the island from
King Haakon Bay.
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