Location & Transportation
Since cruise ships cannot dock directly at New Island, you will be tendered ashore. Landings are made on the sheltered eastern side at Coffins Harbour, right beside the rusting wreck of the Protector III. From there it’s an uphill walk of about half a mile to the far side of the island, where the seabird colonies and the settlement sit. The tender boat ride itself can be a unique experience—gliding over the choppy waters, it gives you your first taste of the wind-swept Falklands. I’ve found that the process is smooth, though it might be a bit bumpy on a windy day. Make sure you have your sea legs and a good windbreaker!
Sightseeing
New Island stretches for about 8 miles in length and just over 1/2 mile in width. Its landscape reminds me of the rugged highlands of Scotland—hilly, covered with high, brown grasses and peat bogs. You won’t see any grand forests here since the island, like the rest of the Falklands, doesn’t have native trees, only a scattering of shrubs and bushes.
The island has been a nature reserve since the 1970s and is now owned by the New Island Conservation Trust, so its real treasure is wildlife. Here are the highlights I love:
- Walk out to the west-coast cliffs, where an immense mixed colony of black-browed albatrosses, southern rockhopper penguins, and imperial shags nests shoulder to shoulder—one of the great wildlife spectacles of the whole archipelago.
- Visit the small Barnard Museum at the settlement, named for Captain Charles Barnard, who was marooned here for around eighteen months in the early 1800s. It tells the maritime and sealing history of the islands and overlooks the wreck of the Protector III.
- Look for South American fur seals at the Landsend Bluff colony north of the settlement, and scan the water for Commerson’s and Peale’s dolphins.
- Keep an eye out for Gentoo penguins on the eastern beaches and the island’s many raptors and scavengers—striated caracaras, turkey vultures, and dolphin gulls.
A few fun facts I’ve learned along the way:
- Despite its reputation, the Falklands enjoy a temperate climate and a surprisingly narrow temperature range. It rarely snows, and when winter does drop a few flakes, they seldom stick.
- The island’s remote beauty is enhanced by its strong winds, which create a dramatic, ever-changing outdoor scene—perfect for photography and quiet walks.
Tours & Excursions
Even though New Island is remote, there are a few excursions that let you truly explore its raw beauty:
- Guided hiking tours: Join local experts to trek across the rugged terrain, learn about the island’s history, and spot native wildlife.
- Wildlife watching: The Falklands are famous for their birdlife and coastal creatures. On a calm day, you might catch glimpses of seals, seabirds, or even a pod of dolphins offshore.
- Scenic drives: If there’s an option, a small vehicle tour around the island offers breathtaking panoramic views of the windswept landscape.
It’s best to check with your cruise line or local tour operator in advance about available excursions.
It‘s a good idea to compare shore excursion costs between what your cruise line offers and options like Viator and GetYourGuide. They often provide lower prices and include customer reviews and ratings to help you choose the best option. They may also offer more more flexible cancellation or rescheduling policies than those available through your cruise line. However, while booking independently might give you more variety and potentially better rates, be mindful of your schedule - cruise line excursions are typically coordinated to match your ship‘s schedule with guaranteed pick-up and drop-off times.
There is also a great resource for finding local guides at Tours by Locals. Tours by Locals connects you with local guides who can help you plan a private personal tour, guide you, and get you back to your ship on time. You can also check out Rome2Rio for local transportation options. It is a great resource for finding how to get from one place to another, including public transportation, taxis, ferries, and more.
Shopping
New Island is an uninhabited nature reserve, so there are no shops here. The one exception is the little Barnard Museum at the settlement, where you may be able to pick up a postcard or a small memento that supports the conservation trust. For any real souvenir shopping, I’d plan to browse aboard your ship or wait for a larger settlement like Stanley later in your itinerary.
Dining
There are no cafés, pubs, or restaurants on New Island—it’s a wildlife reserve with no facilities for visitors. Plan to eat aboard your ship before you tender ashore, and bring water and a snack if you’ll be out walking the cliffs for a few hours. Honestly, a windswept picnic overlooking an albatross colony beats any restaurant view I can think of.
Nearby Lodging
New Island has no visitor accommodations, so it’s strictly a day stop on a cruise or expedition itinerary. If you want to extend your time in the Falklands, keep these tips in mind:
- Base yourself in Stanley or at one of the established lodges and farm stays on other islands, which offer a cozy, personal experience.
- Advance booking is strongly recommended, as options across the Falklands are limited and tend to fill up quickly during peak season.
- Some cruise passengers prefer to arrange any onward lodging through the cruise line for a seamless transition from ship to shore.
Culture & Local Events
New Island offers more than stunning landscapes—it has a unique local vibe shaped by its British heritage and isolated charm:
- Language: English is spoken throughout the Falklands, so communication is straightforward.
- Currency & Transactions: The local currency is the Falkland Islands Pound (FKP). While major credit cards are accepted in some places, it’s wise to carry some cash for small purchases.
- Local Events: Being a tight-knit community, locals sometimes organize small fairs, outdoor markets, and community gatherings. Although these events might not be as flashy as festivals in larger cities, they offer an authentic glimpse into life on the island.
- Practical Tips: Shops and local services may operate on limited hours, especially during weekends or holidays. I always recommend checking ahead if you’re planning a visit to a particular establishment or event.
Safety & Awareness
When exploring New Island, keep these points in mind:
- Weather: The island is known for its strong winds—dress warmly and in layers. A waterproof jacket is a great idea!
- Terrain: The rugged landscape can be challenging. Wear sturdy shoes and be cautious on uneven paths.
- Local Advice: Respect local customs and always ask for guidance if you’re unsure about a trail or excursion route.