Best of Antarctica: Wildlife Explorer

Set sail aboard the comfortable and spacious polar expedition vessel, the Ocean Endeavour to give you the best of the stunning South Shetland Islands and Antarctic Peninsula in 11 Days.


Antarctic Peninsula
© Agustin Ullmann

Welcome to the pinnacle of expedition travel – Antarctica. It’s a place of extremes, where the wildlife and landscape paint a picture like nowhere else in the world.

Duration: 11 days
Starts: Ushuaia, Argentina
Ends: Ushuaia, Argentina
Language: English speaking voyage


Included
Optional


Explore the natural environment and closeup encounters with wildlife on our forward-facing zodiac’s and on foot. For the adventurous, take a kayak and drift among the sea ice and sculptured icebergs, spend a night on the 7th continent under the stars or snowshoe in the footsteps of past explorers. Walk among enormous penguin rookeries, encounter basking seals and their playful pups and search for humpback, minke and orca whales. Onboard, enjoy talks on regional history, zoology and geology by experts. Pamper yourself with one of our spa treatments or simply relax with a yoga class. A voyage like this will leave you with memories to last a lifetime.

• In just under two weeks you will experience the highlights of the northern Antarctic region: the South Shetland Islands and Antarctic Peninsula.
• You will visit sections of the Antarctic Peninsula with remarkable views of the towering peaks of the Antarctic continent and a wide range of wildlife.
• While at sea, you can enjoy the amenities of the Ocean Endeavour. There is also a lecture program which will educate you about the unique flora and fauna of this part of the world, as well as the legendary tales about early explorers.
• The itinerary allows possibilities for unforgettable activities such as Zodiac excursions, guided hikes on shore, visits to wildlife colonies, kayaking, camping and the exploration of historic huts and science stations.
• You will learn about the Peninsula's remarkable history and will encounter gentoo, chinstrap and Adélie penguin rookeries; Weddell, crab-eater and leopard seals; as well as orca, humpback and minke whales in the Antarctic waters.

Itinerary

© Agustin Ullmann
© Agustin Ullmann
© Agustin Ullmann

Day 1: Ushuaia
Welcome to Ushuaia, Argentina, the world’s southernmost city. You’ll be briefed at the hotel tonight on the journey and details for tomorrow’s embarkation, but if you happen to arrive early there are a surprising amount of ways to entertain yourself at ‘the End of the World’. Check out the Museo Maritimo to brush up on the region’s history, or take a stroll down Avenida San Martin if you’re after any last-minute essentials before departing. Oh, and did we mention this is Argentina – if all else fails, head to a local restaurant to get your fill of red wine and steak. Muy bueno.

Special Information
An arrival transfer from the airport on Day 1 is included in your voyage fare. Full details will be sent with your final joining instructions.

Day 2: Ushuaia – Embarkation Day
This afternoon you’ll board the Ocean Endeavour, settle into your cabin and begin cruising down the stunning Beagle Channel, named for Charles Darwin’s ship. The channel transects the Tierra del Fuego archipelago in the extreme south of South America, and as the ship pulls away from port there’s always an air of anticipation. Wave goodbye to Argentina and know that the next time you see land you’ll be staring at Antarctica.

Days 3-4: Drake Passage
The time has come to cross the Drake Passage, the legendary body of water named after English explorer Sir Francis Drake. If the conditions are right, enjoy some time out on deck to spot dolphins, orcas or perhaps albatross. If the waters are a little rough, the Ocean Endeavour is equipped with some seriously lush facilities for you to take advantage of. As well as safety briefings, a comprehensive lecture program will run throughout the journey delivered by experts in Antarctica’s history, geology and biology. With any luck we’ll make it to land by early evening on Day 4 – a moment that always brings much excitement.

Days 5-8: Antarctic Peninsula
The adventure truly begins once the Antarctic Convergence is left in your wake and exchanged for four incredible days of exploring the Antarctic Peninsula. Stare wide-eyed at glaciers, mountains and an unimaginable array of wildlife as the sheer magnitude and rawness of the area comes to light. Every day is a new adventure, and you’ll explore ice-filled bays and channels as well as Antarctica itself on Zodiac excursions and by foot. While the landscapes will no doubt take your breath away, Antarctica is all about the wildlife. Visit penguin rookeries, spot humpback and minke whales and look out for leopard seals, all while calving glaciers crack through the immense silence. The landing sites visited will depend on the ship's location and weather conditions.

Days 9-10: At Sea
Say goodbye to the Antarctic Peninsula as we begin our return leg to Ushuaia. Take the opportunity to share photographs with fellow travellers, use your now expert skills in wildlife spotting and enjoy the final lectures from your polar experts. It’s also a great opportunity to make use of the Ocean Endeavour’s health and wellness facilities, including its saunas, spa, heated pool, yoga classes and gym.

Day 11: Ushuaia – Disembarkation Day
Your Antarctic adventure draws to a close after breakfast this morning. Farewell your shipmates and transfer to the airport if you’re flying out today, or perhaps spend some more time exploring this incredible part of the world.

Itinerary

Day 1: Ushuaia
Welcome to Ushuaia, Argentina, the world’s southernmost city. You’ll be briefed at the hotel tonight on the journey and details for tomorrow’s embarkation, but if you happen to arrive early there are a surprising amount of ways to entertain yourself at ‘the End of the World’. Check out the Museo Maritimo to brush up on the region’s history, or take a stroll down Avenida San Martin if you’re after any last-minute essentials before departing. Oh, and did we mention this is Argentina – if all else fails, head to a local restaurant to get your fill of red wine and steak. Muy bueno.

Special Information
An arrival transfer from the airport on Day 1 is included in your voyage fare. Full details will be sent with your final joining instructions.

Day 2: Ushuaia – Embarkation Day
This afternoon you’ll board the Ocean Endeavour, settle into your cabin and begin cruising down the stunning Beagle Channel, named for Charles Darwin’s ship. The channel transects the Tierra del Fuego archipelago in the extreme south of South America, and as the ship pulls away from port there’s always an air of anticipation. Wave goodbye to Argentina and know that the next time you see land you’ll be staring at Antarctica.

Days 3-4: Drake Passage
The time has come to cross the Drake Passage, the legendary body of water named after English explorer Sir Francis Drake. If the conditions are right, enjoy some time out on deck to spot dolphins, orcas or perhaps albatross. If the waters are a little rough, the Ocean Endeavour is equipped with some seriously lush facilities for you to take advantage of. As well as safety briefings, a comprehensive lecture program will run throughout the journey delivered by experts in Antarctica’s history, geology and biology. With any luck we’ll make it to land by early evening on Day 4 – a moment that always brings much excitement.

Days 5-8: Antarctic Peninsula
The adventure truly begins once the Antarctic Convergence is left in your wake and exchanged for four incredible days of exploring the Antarctic Peninsula. Stare wide-eyed at glaciers, mountains and an unimaginable array of wildlife as the sheer magnitude and rawness of the area comes to light. Every day is a new adventure, and you’ll explore ice-filled bays and channels as well as Antarctica itself on Zodiac excursions and by foot. While the landscapes will no doubt take your breath away, Antarctica is all about the wildlife. Visit penguin rookeries, spot humpback and minke whales and look out for leopard seals, all while calving glaciers crack through the immense silence. The landing sites visited will depend on the ship's location and weather conditions.

Days 9-10: At Sea
Say goodbye to the Antarctic Peninsula as we begin our return leg to Ushuaia. Take the opportunity to share photographs with fellow travellers, use your now expert skills in wildlife spotting and enjoy the final lectures from your polar experts. It’s also a great opportunity to make use of the Ocean Endeavour’s health and wellness facilities, including its saunas, spa, heated pool, yoga classes and gym.

Day 11: Ushuaia – Disembarkation Day
Your Antarctic adventure draws to a close after breakfast this morning. Farewell your shipmates and transfer to the airport if you’re flying out today, or perhaps spend some more time exploring this incredible part of the world.


© Agustin Ullmann
© Agustin Ullmann
© Agustin Ullmann


INCLUSIONS

• All meals onboard the Ocean Endeavour including snacks
• Accommodation onboard the Ocean Endeavour in booked cabin category
• Onboard lecture program from Expeditions Team and Naturalists
• All applicable shore excursions and Zodiac cruising (except paid adventure options with cost)
• Use of rubber boots on land and use of waterproof outer shell jacket
• Insulated inner jacket, yours to keep at the end of the voyage
• Transfer from Ushuaia airport to hotel (Day 1) and pre-night hotel with breakfast
• Transfer from Ushuaia hotel accommodation to the Ocean Endeavour for embarkation
• Transports to Ushuaia airport on return to port
• All port taxes
• All landing fees
• Use of onboard gym, sauna, pool and jacuzzi and onboard yoga
• Itineraries are correct at the time of publication and may be subject to change

EXCLUSIONS

• International or internal flights unless specified
• Airport transfers, taxes and excess baggage charges unless specified
• Meals other than those specified in the pre-departure information
• Pre or post cruise travel expenses
• Visa (if applicable) and passport fees
• Travel insurance (compulsory)
• Fuel surcharge may be applied to all bookings
• Paid adventure options and all personal expenses
• Tobacco, alcoholic or beverages (other than coffee and tea)
• Miscellaneous extras
• Laundry and communication charges on board
• Gratuities for Expedition team and crew (recommended US$15 per person per day)
• For minors under 16 years of age at time of travel; life jackets, waterproof outer shell jacket, insulated inner jacket and boots
• For guests who require larger sizing; Waterproof outer shell jacket, insulated inner jacket and rubber • boots


Dates & Rates


Ship: Ocean Endeavour | Date: 18 Dec 2024 - 28 Dec 2024 (2476)
Cat1 Single Int
$11,749
$9,400
Cat2 Triple Int
$9,249
$7,400
Cat3 Twin Int
$9,749
$7,800
Cat 4 Twin PH
$10,249
$8,200
Cat4A Single PH
$14,849
$11,880
Cat5 Twin W
$10,749
$8,600
Cat 5A Single V
$16,349
$13,080
Cat6 Comfort Twin
$11,299
$9,040
Cat7 Twin W S
$12,199
$9,760
Cat8 Superior
$12,799
$8,960
Cat9 Junior S
$13,699
$9,590
Cat10 Owners Suite
$14,949
$10,460
Ship: Ocean Endeavour | Date: 27 Dec 2024 - 06 Jan 2025 (2477)
Cat1 Single Int
$11,749
Cat2 Triple Int
$9,249
Cat3 Twin Int
$9,749
Cat 4 Twin PH
$10,249
Cat4A Single PH
$14,849
Cat5 Twin W
$10,749
Cat 5A Single V
$16,349
Cat6 Comfort Twin
$11,299
Cat7 Twin W S
$12,199
Cat8 Superior
$12,799
Cat9 Junior S
$13,699
Cat10 Owners Suite
$14,949
Ship: Ocean Endeavour | Date: 26 Jan 2025 - 05 Feb 2025 (2478)
Cat1 Single Int
$11,749
$10,575
Cat2 Triple Int
$9,249
$8,325
Cat3 Twin Int
$9,749
$8,775
Cat 4 Twin PH
$10,249
$9,224
Cat4A Single PH
$14,849
$13,365
Cat5 Twin W
$10,749
$9,674
Cat 5A Single V
$16,349
$14,715
Cat6 Comfort Twin
$11,299
$10,169
Cat7 Twin W S
$12,199
$10,979
Cat8 Superior
$12,799
$10,879
Cat9 Junior S
$13,699
$11,644
Cat10 Owners Suite
$14,949
$12,705
Ship: Ocean Endeavour | Date: 16 Feb 2025 - 26 Feb 2025 (2479)
Cat1 Single Int
$11,749
Cat2 Triple Int
$9,249
Cat3 Twin Int
$9,749
Cat 4 Twin PH
$10,249
Cat4A Single PH
$14,849
Cat5 Twin W
$10,769
Cat 5A Single V
$16,349
Cat6 Comfort Twin
$11,299
Cat7 Twin W S
$12,199
Cat8 Superior
$12,799
Cat9 Junior S
$13,699
Cat10 Owners Suite
$14,949

* The prices are per person in US Dollars, unless expressly specified in a different currency. In that case, payment will be in US dollars at the exchange rate of the day.
** All prices will be re-confirmed by email at the time of booking.
NOTE: Embracing the unexpected is part of the legacy—and excitement—of expedition travel. When traveling in extremely remote regions, your expedition staff must allow the sea, the ice and the weather to guide route and itinerary details. This itinerary is a tentative outline of what you’ll experience on this voyage; please be aware that no specific itinerary can be guaranteed.

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