This 14-day Antarctic expedition offers an in-depth exploration of the Antarctic Peninsula. Set sail aboard the comfortable and spacious polar expedition vessel, the Ocean Endeavour, to venture south to a milestone that few have journeyed, the Antarctic Circle, latitude 66° 33’. Leaving civilization behind, cross the infamous Drake Passage and set a course towards the mighty frozen desert of the south, to begin your exploration of the Antarctic Peninsula. Extended time in the region allows you to go beyond the Antarctic Peninsula and venture south of the Antarctic Circle, home to fantastic ice formations and wildlife. As your ship weaves its way through the icy waterways, absorb the beauty of your surroundings - majestic snow-capped peaks, immense tabular icebergs, dramatic ice carvings and shimmering glaciers. Enjoy time communing with penguins and visits to less-frequented landing sites.
Highlights
Experience the White Continent & encounter an incredible variety of wildlife
Cross the spectacular Antarctic Circle
Take in the Sub-Antarctic South Shetland Islands and Antarctic Peninsula
Enjoy regular Zodiac excursions and onshore landings
Involves minimal physical effort and is typically associated with leisurely activities. Activities are low-intensity or last less than a few hours each day.
On arrival at Ushuaia Airport, make your way through to the Arrivals Hall where your representative will be waiting for you to transfer you to your hotel. The first night of your voyage is spent in the quaint town of Ushuaia, the most southerly city in the world, and the capital of Tierra del Fuego (Land of Fire).
The remainder of the day is at leisure and you are free to explore, perhaps making a few last-minute purchases from the many shops or artisan markets or relaxing in a café. Visit the excellent museums along the main street, Avenida San Martin, or wander the streets and take in the town’s dramatic setting, with views of the mountains to the north and the Beagle Channel to the south.
This morning is free for you to explore Ushuaia, giving you time to wander the streets of this quaint port town, or discover Tierra del Fuego National Park. Transfer to the pier of Ushuaia for embarkation in the late afternoon. You will be welcomed on board the Ocean Endeavour by the Expedition Team and the Ship’s Officers. This evening set sail through the Beagle Channel that was named after the British ship the HMS Beagle. This famous channel transects the Tierra del Fuego archipelago in the extreme south of South America, and is rich in wildlife. Keep a look out for Magellanic penguins, rock cormorants, petrels and black-browed albatross from the deck as well as sea lion colonies.
As your ship leaves the Beagle Channel, prepare yourself for potentially rough seas as we enter the legendary Drake Passage. This infamous and unpredictable channel of water separates the southernmost tip of South America from the tip of the Antarctic Peninsula. It was named after the English explorer, Sir Frances Drake. As you head southwards, there is time to get to know your shipmates and get an insight into the excitement ahead with presentations from the Expedition Team on everything Antarctic - from the history and geology to the incredible wildlife. You will notice a drop in temperature as you cross the Antarctic Convergence and enter the waters of the Antarctic Ocean. At the Antarctic Convergence, the colder polar waters flowing north meet the warmer equatorial waters flowing south. This mixing pushes nutrient rich waters to the surface, attracting a variety of seabirds, whales and other species. Look out through the panoramic observation windows or brave the elements outside on deck as you keep your eyes peeled for albatrosses flying overhead, icebergs and maybe even breaching whales.
Leaving the Antarctic Convergence in your wake, continue south towards Antarctica, maybe making landfall by early evening on Day 4, if conditions are favorable. The first sighting of land always brings great excitement, and is often embraced as the true beginning of any Antarctic expedition.
Day 5-8: South Shetland Islands & Antarctic Peninsula
For the next four days, explore the South Shetland Islands and Antarctic Peninsula that is famed for its majestic mountains, glaciers, imposing icebergs, ice- strewn waters and abundance of wildlife. The scenery, wildlife and serene silence of Antarctica will enchant and enthrall and you will soon realize why this region has captivated the attention of explorers and travelers for centuries. Your days on the Antarctic Peninsula will form the core of your adventure. Every day will be different as you cruise by Zodiac amongst the beautifully sculpted icebergs and take Zodiac excursions from the ship to explore local bays, channels and landing sites. Unpredictable weather and ice conditions mean that the itinerary will be flexible, but will make the most of wildlife sightings, aim to explore penguin rookeries, seal and bird colonies, whale feeding areas as well as visiting sites of historic and scientific interest and climbing to vantage points for panoramic views. There is always something new or unexpected to see, with opportunities for kayaking, snowshoeing and photography with an expert, which means that your expedition will be a unique and personal experience and unlike any other. Enjoy the antics of thousands of curious penguins as you sit on a pebbled beach, scout for whales and seals as you cruise by Zodiac, visit a research base, listen out for the mighty crack of a calving glacier and maybe brave a polar plunge in the icy waters!
As you cruise through the Peninsula, the lecture program continues and sightseeing is at its most spectacular off the ship’s outer decks. Enjoy the Ocean Endeavour’s newly designed health and fitness features, with facilities that include a spa, His and Hers saunas, saltwater pool and gym plus yoga sessions.
If weather conditions are favorable, continue to push south, past vast icebergs, in the hope of reaching latitude 66°33’ S to cross the fabled Antarctic Circle. This is a point that only a few intrepid travelers have reached, an impressive achievement and one worthy of a celebration! Toast yourselves and toast the first explorers who ventured this far south. The area is home to Weddell seals and beautifully sculptured ice formations and you may see humpback whales and minke whales that feed on the krill-rich waters.
Day 11: South Shetland Islands | Antarctic Peninsula
Heading north once more, continue to explore the Antarctic Peninsula and South Shetland Islands, keeping a close watch for wildlife and scanning the waters for whale activity. Make the most of the on board facilities, and enjoy your final Zodiac excursions and shore landings.
Leaving the Antarctic Peninsula behind, head back across the Drake Passage. This is another great opportunity to look out for wildlife from the deck of the ship, as you identify seabirds and maybe whales with the help of your Expedition Team. Gain more insight into the region by attending final lectures and presentations by the polar experts and take time to relax and reminisce about your Antarctic experiences. By the evening you can hope to be back in the tranquil waters of the Beagle Channel, ensuring a restful night's sleep on board.
Day 14: Disembarkation in Ushuaia
1 Breakfast
You are scheduled to arrive into Ushuaia early this morning, disembarking after a final breakfast aboard the Ocean Endeavour.
Transfer to the airport for your onward flight, or maybe spend a few days in Ushuaia, giving you time to explore further, maybe hiking in Tierra del Fuego National park.
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Prices for are estimated based on inflation. Contact us to confirm pricing and availability for your desired departure date.
$11,790
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Single Inside (Cat. 1)
Approximately 95 to 105 sq. ft. (9-10 sq. m), an interior Single cabin mid ship on Deck 5 with a lower berth and private bath, TV and radio.
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Triple (Cat. 2)
Approximately 225 sq. ft. (20 sq. m), a Triple on Deck 4 is an interior cabin with three lower berths, and private bath. Cabin 4100 has four lower single beds and one private bathroom with a separate shower room.
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Interior Twin (Cat. 3)
Deck five: Interior cabin, two lower berths, private bath - approx. 125 sq. ft. (twin)/110 sq. ft. (single)
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Twin/Single (Cat. 4)
Deck four: Porthole window, unobstructed view, two lower berths, private bath - approx. 100 sq. ft. (twin)/90 sq. ft. (single)
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Main Twin (Cat. 5)
Deck five: Picture window, unobstructed view, two lower berths, private bath - approx. 115 sq. ft.
Deck five. Picture windows, unobstructed view, two lower berths, approx. 190 sq. ft. Deck eight: oversize windows, partially obstruction view, matrimonial bed, private bath, refrigerator - approx. 145 sq. ft.
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Superior Twin (Cat.8)
Superior Twin cabins on deck 5 are approximately 21 m² and feature a large picture window and two lower beds. Deck 7 Superior Twins are approximately 17 m² and offer queen beds.
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Junior Suite (Cat. 9)
Junior Suites on Deck 5 are at least 325 sq. ft. (30 sq. m), and at least 164 sq. ft. (15 sq. m) on Deck 7. All Junior Suites feature a picture window with an unobstructed view, one double bed and a private bath.
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Suite (Cat. 10)
Approximately 320 sq. ft. (30 sq. m), the Owner’s Suite on Deck 7 features two large bow-facing windows, one double bed, separate sitting room and private bath with tub.
Notes
Solo Travelers: Single Cabins are available in Cat 1. & Cat 4. Same gender shared cabins are available at no extra charge (not available in Cat 8, Cat 9 or Cat 10). Single occupancy of other cabins at 1.7x double occupancy rate.
Child Policy: Child rate is 50% of adult double occupancy rate in selected cabin. Minimum age of 8.
Children must be aged between 8 & 12 at time of travel to be eligible for these rates.
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