Trip Code: ACOEFSGE
DIFFICULTY RATING: 2 (light adventure)
Start: Puerto Madryn, Argentina
Finish: Ushuaia, Argentina
SHIP: Ocean Endeavour
Antarctica, South Georgia, Falkland Islands
30/10/2024
Breakfast at Hotel & All meals Onboard the Ship
Arrival Transfer, Ship Transfer & Departure Transfer from the Ship
Hotel & Cabin Onboard a Ship
Daily Antarctica Excursions, Zodiac Cruising, Onboard Expert Lectures & Briefings by the Experienced Expedition Team
NOTE: Itinerary is subject to change depending on weather & ice conditions
Cruise by Zodiacs amongst the beautifully sculpted icebergs and take excursions from the ship to explore local bays, channels and landing sites
On the Ocean Endeavour, our guides are truly the captains of the guests' experience down in Antarctica. We have several onboard experts, including a marine biologist, a geologist, glaciologist, even a penguin-ologist! They share their passions during the presentations and educational program that we have on board the ship.
Spot penguins from your zodiac or hiking in Antarctica. Common species on the peninsula are the Gentoo, Chinstrap and Adelie penguins.
On this three-week voyage of a lifetime, you will follow the path of the famed survivalist, Sir Ernest Shackleton. Explore the white continent of Antarctica, the Falkland Islands and South Georgia, following a similar route to the expedition that Shackleton and his men took, many years ago onboard the Endurance.
Antarctica is a land of rugged landscapes and home to a wide range of amazing wildlife. Hone your photography skills and enjoy excursions by Zodiac through ice floes, as well as landings on the continent to explore further on foot. One of the highlights of the trip will be walking among thousands of King Penguins on the island of South Georgia. Onboard the ship you will be regaled with stories of Shackleton and his men, as well as educational lectures by the expert expedition team.
Keep a look out for seals, seabirds and the mighty mammals, humpback whales, scanning the horizon from both land and sea. Witness bright-blue glaciers and massive ice bergs from the ship and by Zodiac and take part in some of the optional activities, such as kayaking, photography workshops and ice camping under the stars.
This adventure will appeal to anyone who loves history, wildlife and nature and you will take home many memories to cherish forever.
PLEASE NOTE: Pricing is subject to change and availability at the time of booking. Contact us for more information.
Welcome to Puerto Madryn, Argentina! Your journey begins in northern Patagonia, on a sandy coast known for its abundant marine wildlife. You can arrive at any time today. Transfer to your hotel, settle in and enjoy some free time at ‘the gateway to the Peninsula Valdes’. Explore the town, try one of the local Argentinian delicacies or take a seat on the coast and stare out to sea. You are free as an albatross until the optional icebreaker meeting this evening. After your briefing, maybe get together with a few of your fellow travellers for dinner at a local restaurant, where you can theorise on what’s to come on your upcoming Antarctic adventure.
Please note: An arrival transfer from the airport on Day 1 is included in your voyage fare.
Today, you’ll hop aboard the Ocean Endeavour – your home for the next 20 days. Set sail towards the Falkland Islands, where your journey in Shackleton’s footsteps begins. Sir Ernest Shackleton is known as one of the greatest polar explorers, with one of the best survival stories that has ever touched the Antarctic (or the world). Shackleton led the British Imperial Trans-Antarctic Expedition between 1914 and 1916, planning to cross Antarctica from a base on the Weddell Sea towards McMurdo Sound, via the South Pole. Unfortunately, their ship Endurance became trapped in ice off the Caird Coast, and this began the epic story of survival for Shackleton and his men – all of whom survived due to the skill, optimism and extraordinary leadership of their team and Captain.
With nothing but you and the big blue for the next couple of days, take advantage of all the amenities and activities on board your fully equipped expedition vessel. Brush up on your history in the library, relax in the spa and sauna or watch the ice floes pass you by on the sundeck. Look up and you might just spot one of the huge albatrosses along their migration route. Keep your eyes peeled for breaching whales and other marine mammals in the southern oceans and cosy up with a drink while you get to know your shipmates at the bar. There will also be a series of lectures and presentations throughout the day, available to educate you about the local geography, environment and wildlife you can expect along the way. These are a great way to prepare for your expedition, so take it all in while you hear from an expert team that highlight the dramatic history and wildlife encounters that may await you.
Have your camera ready as you approach the ruggedly beautiful Falklands archipelago to capture not only the abundant wildlife, but also the incredible scenery. The two main islands (East Falkland and West Falkland) have much to offer and provide a rare opportunity to witness the biological diversity, extraordinary landscape and history of the southern islands. The Falklands are a wildlife photographer’s dream and have the largest black-browed albatross colony in the world, as well as five species of penguins that breed on the islands. Learn about the intriguing and controversial history of the Falkland Islands as you explore the quaint capital of Stanley. Near the town, you may see southern giant petrels, Falkland steamer ducks, kelp gulls or dolphin gulls (calling all birdwatchers!). There are also black-crowned night herons, red-backed hawks, peregrine falcons and turkey vultures. Witness dramatic landscapes, including wetlands, lakes and some rolling peaks, as you explore the other stunning islands in the archipelago. Weather permitting, this will include Saunders Island, the second largest island in the Falklands. The Neck, which is a narrow peninsula with sandy beaches and subtle cliffs, is home to gentoo, Magellanic, king and rockhopper penguins.
Farewell the Falkland Islands and prepare for what lies ahead in South Georgia – fascinating history, geology and of course – wildlife. From the outer decks, you can scan the horizon for seabirds and underwater silhouettes. You’ll have another chance to attend presentations from the expert team, which highlight the dramatic history of the area, extraordinary marine wildlife encounters and so much more. These days at sea are a great opportunity to swap stories with your fellow expeditioners, whether that be in the jacuzzi or over lunch at Polaris restaurant.
Arrive in South Georgia, where across the island, dark volcanic beaches are backgrounded by hanging glaciers and local king penguins nest among tussock grass. Over the next few days, explore the island, once the homestead of whalers and isolated explorers – now, a protected area with dedicated Antarctic research teams. Learn more about Sir Ernest Shackleton’s story on your various excursions to land. It’s on these very shores in South Georgia that Shackleton landed his crew of the James Caird in search of help for his party who were stranded back on Elephant Island. You’ll spend several days retracing Shackleton’s steps, as well as visiting his grave at the ex-whaling station of Grytviken, located on the east side of the island. Wander among hundreds of thousands of king penguins in the dramatic South Georgian light, as you consider the extraordinary feat that was Shackleton’s (and his crew’s) fight for survival. Your Expedition Team will help bring these days to life, with educational presentations, daily excursions and the option of paid activities, like day paddling and photography lessons.
Please note: Special Information
Potential excursions and landing sites are determined by weather and ice conditions and cannot be guaranteed in advance.
Kayaking, snowshoeing and other optional extra excursions must be booked in advance. Additional costs apply and space is limited. Please speak to your Destination Specialist for more information.
Beginners interested in kayaking should take an introductory course prior to the voyage, including how to complete a wet exit. Regardless of your experience, we recommend you take part in some kayaking practice prior to the voyage to ensure that you are comfortable on the water in icy conditions. Kayaking adventures are only conducted during calm weather.
Take in panoramic views from the observation lounge and spacious decks or make the most of the onboard facilities during your days at sea. Whether you’re looking for a quiet place to reflect, or somebody to help you edit your photos of the penguin colonies, the Ocean Endeavour has something for you. Rejuvenate mind and body with one of the relaxing wellness facilities onboard. Get the blood pumping at the gym, join a ‘floe’ yoga and meditation class or indulge in a massage or facial at the spa. The ship is yours to explore!
Voyage south towards continental Antarctica. Your days will begin with a wake-up call from your Expedition Leader around 7 am, which gives you time to prepare for the day before joining your fellow expeditioners for breakfast. You’ll usually have two excursions per day – one in the morning and one in the afternoon, with lunch served in between. For the next four days, enjoy copious wildlife, small group outings on the Zodiacs and unforgettable vistas at every turn. With multiple landing sites available, your Ocean Endeavour crew will work out the best places to stop, considering the elements, accessibility and potential for wildlife sightings. There may also be the chance for snowshoeing, sea kayaking or a camping adventure – the paid excursions (which are all weather and time-of-year dependent) can make for some of the greatest memories. Well-known sites like Neko Harbour, Orne Harbour and Paradise Bay will also be on the Captain’s radar.
Settle back into life at sea as you prepare for the return journey across the Drake Passage. The Ocean Endeavour will track north towards Cape Horn and your destination in Ushuaia, Argentina. During this time, you can attend more onboard lectures and travel talks, and enjoy our voyage slideshow including images taken by our Expedition Photographer – yours to enjoy and share after your expedition. Now is also the chance to catch up with your shipmates and share stories about your voyage over a meal or a drink at the bar.
Your Antarctic adventure draws to a close as you disembark the Ocean Endeavour following breakfast. Farewell your fellow guests and your Expedition Team and join a transfer to Ushuaia airport for your onward journey (included for selected flight departures today) or to the city centre of Ushuaia, where you can make your way to your hotel if you are extending your stay and want to spend some more time exploring this incredible part of the world. With much to see and do in this quaint ‘End of the World’ town, including the Museo Maritimo, Avenida San Martin or even an adventurous hike to the Martial Glacier, your adventure doesn’t have to end here. If you would like to stay additional nights in Ushuaia, please speak to your booking agent.
Please note: A transfer to the city centre after disembarkation OR a transfer to the airport for onward flights (for selected departures today only) is included. If you are extending your stay or do not meet the requirements for the included transfers then we can arrange transportation at an additional cost, please discuss this with your booking agent.
You are advised not to book a flight out of Ushuaia before midday on disembarkation day, in case of delays caused by unfavourable weather conditions.
Cruise itinerary is subject to change depending on weather conditions, ice conditions and other factors.
Explore the charming British town of Stanley in the Falkland Islands. Wander the island, spotting nesting seabirds such as albatross and a range of penguin species.
Get out on daily Zodiac excursions to witness the amazing vistas of Antarctica. You can also opt to add one of our paid adventures. Choose from a wide range including kayaking, day paddling and camping.
Witness stunning polar scenery and marvel at the huge King penguin colonies in South Georgia. Here you will learn about Sir Earnest Shackleton's journey and visit his grave.
See a range of scenery, including famous sites, beautiful glaciers and penguin colonies in the thousands in Antarctica and the South Shetland Islands. Keep an eye out for whales breeching on the horizon.
Enjoy ecudational lecturres onboard the ship. These will include topics such as geology, ecology and history. You can also be an active participation in our Citizen Science program, which is run by the onboard expedition team.
Your experiences through the Ocean Endeavour's in-depth expedition program is the number one priority! The ship carries 20 zodiacs for exploration and remote landings and offers additional activities such as sea kayaking, snowshoeing, ice camping and hiking plus a photography program, all designed to enhance your polar experience. This small, well-appointed expedition ship allows you to explore the world’s remotest regions while enjoying the class and comfort of a hotel. There are spacious lounge and bar areas and a top deck observation room with panoramic windows, as well as lecture theatres, a library and a polar boutique. The ample deck areas are equipped with comfortable lounge chairs and feature a saltwater pool, saunas and even a hot tub. Travellers can also enjoy health and fitness amenities including a gym, spa treatments and yoga classes designed to enhance your personal wellness. Onboard, the extensive range of cabin options includes dedicated single cabins for solo travellers, suites and triple cabins that feature two bathrooms. The ship offers an unmatched sense of space with plenty of both interior and exterior areas, where you can enjoy the company of your fellow travellers or enjoy Antarctica in quiet solitude. It's a truly immersive Antarctic adventure for explorers of any age. Download the Ocean Endeavour brochure We offer carbon offset departures. We are assisting in scientific research. We have an 8:1 passenger to expedition crew ratio. We have a fleet of 20 zodiacs and multiple loading points. No single supplements on single cabins. We offer a large variety of activities. PHOTOGRAPHY PROGRAM ICE CAMPING SEA KAYAKING SNOWSHOEING DAY PADDLE STAND-UP PADDLE BOARDING
With her ice-strengthened hull and advanced navigation equipment, the Ocean Endeavour is ideally suited for expedition cruising to the Polar regions. It's designed to adventure travellers who want to get off the ship and onto the ice, with a wide range of expedition activities, citizen science research programs, and opportunities to learn about Antarctica's history and biology from passionate guides.
WHY CHOOSE THIS SHIP
We quantify our carbon usage and then purchase carbon credits from various projects to offset our impact.
During every Antarctic voyage, you have the chance to observe, record, and report on natural phenomena as part of a collaboration project with Antarctic scientists. Find out More
This is one of the highest in the industry and ensures our guests personally experience the professionalism and expertise of our expedition team, which will maximize their experience.
With a large fleet of 20 zodiacs, our large team of boat drivers allows small groups to hit the water and venture onto the ice in smaller congregations.
We have increased our number of solo-use cabins on the Ocean Endeavour, making solo travel to Antarctica more economically viable while bolstering our social distancing measures and maximizing the safety and the experience of all of our passengers.
Yoga,, kayaking, day paddle, stand-up paddleboarding, zodiac excursions and cruises, our exclusive photography program, and camping. OPTIONAL ACTIVITIES
Unique to the Ocean Endeavour, this workshop is perfect if you are passionate about photography, or just passionate about capturing the beautiful landscape and wildlife you will encounter on your incredible Antarctic adventure. Learn More >
Fall asleep amid the snow-capped mountains as you watch the colours of the Antarctic twilight bounce off the ocean and surrounding glaciers. Learn More >
Experience the unforgettable thrill and serenity of kayaking in Antarctica as part of a small, expertly guided paddling group. Learn More >
Snowshoeing allows you to go even deeper into Antarctica’s interior and reach less visited places where many other visitors simply don’t go! Learn More >
As part of a small, expertly guided group, you will paddle between icebergs of all shapes and sizes, skim past penguin rookeries or drift quietly as you absorb the majestic scenery. Learn More >
Combine the physical with the natural beauty of Antarctica, exploring glacial landscapes and spotting an array of wildlife on this SUP adventure. Learn More >
SHIP LAYOUT
Ice Class:
Length: 137.10 M
Breadth: 21.00 MMax
Draft: Cruising
Speed: 16.0 knots
Electricity: 380 / 220 V, 50 Hz a.c. Passenger
Capacity:200
View Ship Details
We believe that appropriate accommodation should add to the authentic travel experience, as well as providing utmost enjoyment. For that reason our accommodation is scrutinised by our staff on the ground frequently, ensuring the properties adhere to our high standards. This key will help you understand the levels of accommodation available on this tour.
Comfortable properties with dependable facilities and service.
Comfortable properties with dependable facilities and service.
Luxurious properties with impeccable facilities and service.
Optional Activities vary for each itinerary. Limited spaces available. Contact your Destination Specialist for pricing & availability.
Experience the unforgettable thrill and serenity of kayaking in Antarctica as part of a small, expertly guided paddling group.
Learn MoreGo even deeper into Antarctica’s interior and reach less visited places where many other visitors simply don’t go!
Learn MoreStand-up Paddle boarding, commonly known as SUP originated in Hawaii and is now available as an optional activity in Antarctica. What a way to explore!
Learn MoreFor photography enthusiasts of any skill level. You will receive expert advice on taking and producing amazing photos of Antarctica.
Learn MorePracticing yoga on your Antarctic expedition is an excellent way to relax, heighten your senses and really open yourself to the experience.
Learn MoreFall asleep amid the snow-capped mountains as you watch the colours of the Antarctic twilight bounce off the ocean and surrounding glaciers.
Learn MoreIf you are looking for another way to nurture your inner adventurer, our day paddle excursion might be the perfect fit! Absorb the majestic scenery from a more intimate vantage point as you paddle through the pristine waters of Antarctica on a sit-on-top kayak.Our expertly guided, one-time, Paddle Program gives you the rare chance to see Antarctica from the same perspective as most of the wildlife – at the surface of the sea.
Learn MoreDeparting | Ending | Duration | From Price | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
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30 Oct 2024 | 19 Nov 2024 | 21 | AUD 21,940 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
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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
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
Available on request. No single supplement if willing to share. Contact us for more details.
Prices are based on per person, twin share* (unless otherwise stated for triple/quad cabins)
Prices are correct at time of publishing but are subject to change at any time.
Itinerary is subject to change depending on weather and ice conditions
Departure date, fuel surcharges, cabin category, currency fluctuations, seasonality and availability.