Saunders Island

Saunders Island stands apart from other Falkland ports by delivering a theatre of wildlife and history in one compact, wind-swept landscape. As you step ashore, you encounter a working sheep farm that proudly shares the island’s heritage as the site of the Falklands’ first British settlement, set against a dramatic topography of three peninsulas linked by narrow necks and three upland blocks. Signature experiences include intimate landings on open dunes and sand flats to watch Gentoo and King Penguins at close range, guided walks to Mount Richards for panoramic views and encounters with Rockhopper Penguins and Imperial Shags, and the chance to glimpse Black-browed Albatrosses soaring above the island’s highest point at 457 meters. The island’s wildlife is impressively varied, with Ruddy-headed Goose and Falkland Steamer Duck along the beaches and occasional Macaroni Penguins threading through the colonies. What truly sets Saunders apart for cruise guests is its spacious, low-impact access: small-ship-friendly moorings, swift Zodiac landings, and conservation-minded operations designed to minimize disturbance while maximizing authentic wildlife encounters. Destinations on this island within a voyage emphasize depth over breadth—short, scenery-rich coastal pathways, photo-ready vantage points, and expert-led explorations that connect geology, history, and biology. Onboard, visiting vessels mirror this expedition ethos with field experts, portable gear such as binoculars and warm layers, enrichment talks, and flexible dining and lounge spaces where guests compare sightings and stories after a day in the Falklands’ sub-Antarctic embrace.