About The Port Of Saunders Island
Saunders Island sits off the northwest coast of West Falkland, a privately run sheep farm that doubles as one of the archipelago's richest wildlife sites. Gentoo penguins ride the surf onto sandy beaches, while black-browed albatross nest alongside sheep in stretches of tussock grass along the rocky coastline. Small colonies of King penguins can often be spotted standing in tight clusters near the shore, and the island's open, treeless terrain offers wide views across white sand and green hillside.
Landing is by small boat, with shallow water and shifting weather shaping each visit. Walking paths lead across grassy dunes to the main penguin colonies and seabird nesting grounds, making for an easy, self-paced route on mostly flat terrain. Wind and quick-changing conditions are part of the experience here, so layered clothing and sturdy footwear serve visitors well on this remote and largely undeveloped island.
Pavlus Recommendations
How our planners would spend a day in Saunders Island.
Watch the Gentoo Beach Landings
Follow the walking path from the landing site to sandy beaches where Gentoo penguins ride the surf ashore in steady streams. Arrive early for the calmest light and least foot traffic.
Visit the Black-Browed Albatross Colony
A short walk across tussock grass leads to nesting albatross perched shoulder to shoulder with grazing sheep along the cliffs. Move slowly and keep a respectful distance to avoid disturbing the birds.
Spot the King Penguin Cluster
Look for the island's small but reliable rookery of King penguins standing in tight groups near the shoreline, a striking contrast to the more numerous Gentoos. Bring binoculars for a closer look without approaching too near.
Last Minute Cruise Deals From Saunders Island
| Departs | Cruise Line | Ship | Itinerary | Nights | From | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Nov 6, 2026 | HX | MS Fram | 22 | $17,774 | ||
| Nov 7, 2026 | Silversea | Silver Wind | 18 | $15,900 | ||
| Nov 20, 2026 | Swan Hellenic | SH Minerva | 18 | $18,000 | ||
| Nov 27, 2026 | HX | MS Fram | 22 | $18,465 | ||
| Nov 28, 2026 | HX | MS Roald Amundsen | 15 | $12,389 | ||
| Dec 18, 2026 | HX | MS Fram | 22 | $20,340 | ||
| Jan 8, 2027 | HX | MS Fram | 22 | $20,340 | ||
| Jan 29, 2027 | HX | MS Fram | 22 | $16,860 | ||
| Feb 19, 2027 | HX | MS Fram | 22 | $16,120 | ||
| Mar 12, 2027 | HX | MS Fram | 17 | $10,731 | ||
| Mar 18, 2027 | HX | MS Roald Amundsen | 15 | $10,840 | ||
| Mar 19, 2027 | HX | MS Fridtjof Nansen | 18 | $10,485 | ||
| Mar 25, 2027 | Swan Hellenic | SH Vega | 14 | $9,900 | ||
| Nov 8, 2027 | Swan Hellenic | SH Vega | 17 | $21,000 | ||
| Nov 13, 2027 | HX | MS Fram | 22 | $22,217 | ||
| Nov 30, 2027 | Swan Hellenic | SH Minerva | 18 | $25,325 | ||
| Dec 4, 2027 | HX | MS Fram | 22 | $21,128 | ||
| Dec 5, 2027 | HX | MS Fridtjof Nansen | 15 | $13,361 | ||
| Dec 25, 2027 | HX | MS Fram | 22 | $22,158 | ||
| Jan 4, 2028 | Swan Hellenic | SH Vega | 18 | $44,600 |
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