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Shackleton's Antarctica, South Georgia & Falklands Explorer | Ocean Endeavour

Valid for selected departures in the 23/24 Antarctica season. Book cabin categories 4,5,6,7 & 8 and pay twin share price.   
Further conditions apply, see below**

21 Days
From NZD 26,617

STYLE: Small Ship Expedition Cruise 

Trip Code: ACACFEX

DIFFICULTY RATING: 2 (light adventure)

Start: Ushuaia, Argentina

Finish: Ushuaia, Argentina

SHIP: Ocean Endeavour

DestinationDestination

Antarctic Peninsula, Falkland Islands, South Georgia

DestinationDeparture Date

20/11/2023, 08/01/2024

MealsMeals

Breakfast at Hotel & All meals Onboard the Ship

TransportTransport

Arrival Transfer, Ship Transfer & Departure Transfer from the Ship 

TransportAccommodation

Hotel & Cabin Onboard a Ship



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Included SightseeingIncluded Sightseeing

Daily Antarctica Landings, Zodiac Cruising, Onboard Expert Lectures & Briefings by the Experienced Expedition Team

 

NOTE: Itinerary is subject to change depending on weather & ice conditions 

OVERVIEW

This is an epic voyage of discovery aboard the Ocean Endeavour, as you follow in the footsteps of Ernest Shackleton and unearth the secrets of Antarctica, South Georgia and the Falklands. Marvel at spectacular rugged scenery, mingle with thousands of King penguins, seals and observe soaring albatross in the wildlife meccas of South Georgia and the Falklands. Glide through ice floes in a zodiac with expert guides among Antarctica’s towering icebergs and majestic glaciers in search of whales and predatory leopard seals. 

With optional adventures including camping, kayaking, snowshoeing and photography workshops; together with luxury touches thanks to an on board saltwater pool, sauna, hot tub and spa treatments this journey of discovery will be etched in your memory forever.

 

**Single supplement offer is available until 31 Oct 23 or sold out. The offer is valid on categories 4,5,6,7 & 8 only on the departure on 20 Nov 23. Offer not valid on the 08th of Jan voyage. Single travellers will have sole occupancy in these cabins on selected voyages and pay the twin share price. Offer does not apply to triple or single cabins. If booking a category 4 cabin you may be moved to a category 4a cabin onboard, depending on availability. These cabins are the same size, but only have one bed. Cabins may have twin or double bedding, depending on availability. Promotion is capacity controlled and may be withdrawn or changed at any time. 

PLEASE NOTE: Pricing is subject to change and availability at the time of booking. Contact us for more information.

ITINERARY

Ushuaia, Argentina

On arrival at Ushuaia Airport, please make your way through to the Arrivals Hall where our representative will be waiting for you to transfer you to your hotel. He/she will be holding a sign with your name on it.

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, maybe making a few last-minute purchases from the many shops or artisan markets or relaxing in a café. Avenida San Martin is the main street and there are some excellent museums to visit or you may prefer to wander the streets taking in the town’s dramatic setting, with views of the mountains to the north and the Beagle Channel to the south.

Embarkation in Ushuaia

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 and you will be welcomed on board the Ocean Endeavour by the Expedition Team and the Ship’s Officers.

This evening we 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.

Enjoy your first taste of life at sea and a welcome dinner. The air is likely to be filled with anticipation, as your next view of land will be of Antarctica - the White Continent.

At Sea, Crossing the Drake Passage - Days 3 & 4

The infamous Drake Passage, named after the famous English explorer, Sir Frances Drake, separates the tip of the Antarctic Peninsula from the southernmost tip of South America.

Enjoy the fabulous on board facilities, maybe join a yoga class, or attend a presentation or two given by the Expedition Team to prepare you for what lies ahead - from the geology of Antarctica to the history, wildlife and even the ice!

As we sail towards Antarctica, there is a fall in temperature as we cross the Antarctic Convergence and enter the waters of the Antarctic Ocean. The Antarctic Convergence is marked by an increased number of seabirds, whales and other species that are attracted by the nutrient-rich waters pushed to the surface by the colder waters of the polar region flowing north and meeting the warmer equatorial waters flowing south.

Head out on deck to look for the mighty albatrosses that fly overhead, scan the waters for breaching whales and icebergs, or gaze out from the panoramic windows of the observation deck.

We continue our course south and hope to make landfall by the evening of Day 4, depending on the weather conditions. Keep on the look out for the first sighting of land - that heralds your arrival to the White Continent!

South Shetland Islands and Antarctic - Days 5 to 7

Spend three unforgettable days exploring the Great White Continent with your expert crew. While landing sites will be chosen based on wildlife-spotting opportunities and weather
conditions, you can expect to explore on land and by Zodiac boat during daily excursions.
The Antarctic Peninsula is home to Leopard seals, Adelie penguins and Chinstrap penguins, among many others.
Nights will be spent on board, listening to lectures from the expedition crew.

Elephant Island

Retrace explorer Ernest Shackleton’s path to South Georgia and look out for seabirds,whales and other wildlife. Listen to sessions from the onboard Antarctic experts and take in the shapes of the seascape from the
comfort of the Ocean Endeavour. You’ll head towards Elephant Island, where sea and weather conditions permitting, we may be able to offer a Zodiac cruise at Point Wild before we head east towards South Georgia that afternoon. Elephant Island is where Sir Ernest Shackleton left 24 of his men after being shipwrecked in 1917, then embarked on one of the greatest survival stories of all time on a mission to South Georgia.

At Sea - Days 9 & 10

Hit the sea once again, bound for South Georgia, arriving by the evening of Day 10 if conditions are favourable. Maybe take the opportunity to relax and unwind with some onboard health and wellness services. Or perhaps you’d prefer to taste the crisp Antarctic air from on deck as seabirds and perhaps whales rear their heads.

South Georgia - Days 11 to 14

South Georgia captivates every traveller that steps foot on its shores. Home to the greatest concentration of wildlife on the planet, here penguins number in the hundreds of thousands, blanketing beaches as far as the eye can see.

We aim to spend four days exploring this stunningly beautiful island, an island that is not only overrun with an incredible array of fauna, but one that is steeped in history. South Georgia was an intrinsic part of Sir Ernest Shackleton's ill-fated Endurance Expedition and was once the centre of the whaling industry.

South Georgia is home to over 30 million breeding birds, thousands of seals, the introduced Norwegian reindeer, nesting sites of the wandering albatross, four breeding species of penguin and the largest colony of king penguins on this planet. It is known as the ‘Galapagos of the South’. If the wildlife is not enough of a draw card - then the spectacular scenery against which it is set can only enhance your visit - emerald green bays, snow-covered peaks and blue glacier ice.

We explore by Zodiac and kayak and on foot, with opportunities to learn more about photography from one of our expert guides.

Every day provides a different experience and a different location. Stand in awe amongst tens of thousands of penguins, look out across beaches carpeted with elephant seals, visit the remains of abandoned whaling stations and even the grave of Shackleton himself.

At Sea - Days 15 & 16

Saying goodbye to the wildlife of South Georgia, we head west towards the isolated and sparsely populated Falklands archipelago, where the silence is broken only by the call of birds. Attend lectures and presentations by the Expedition Team, relax and unwind in the His and Hers saunas and spa and take advantage of all the other amenities on board. Weather permitting, we should arrive to the Falkland Islands on the late evening of day 16.

Falkland Islands - Days 17 & 18

Have your camera at the ready as we approach the ruggedly beautiful Falklands archipelago to capture not only the abundant wildlife but also the incredible scenery.

Over the next couple of days, we explore the Falkland Islands by Zodiac and on foot as we make daily shore landings and maybe even discover smaller inlets by kayak.

Learn about the intriguing and controversial history of the Falkland Islands as we explore the quaint capital of Port Stanley, with its British outpost feel. Near the town you may see Southern giant petrels, the endemic Falkland steamer ducks, kelp gulls and dolphin gulls. There are also black-crowned night herons, red-backed hawks, peregrine falcons and turkey vultures.

As we explore the islands, look out for the 5 species of penguins found here, large populations of black-browed albatrosses, elephant and fur seals, Peale’s and Commerson’s dolphins, orcas and a myriad of bird species including the Falkland’s flightless steamer duck, imperial shags and Cobb’s wrens.

At Sea - Days 19 & 20

After our exploration of the Falkland Islands, we set sail on a course west, bound for the city of Ushuaia, the most southerly city in the world and the capital of Tierra del Fuego (Land of Fire).

Disembarkation in Ushuaia

We are scheduled to arrive into Ushuaia early this morning, and we disembark after a final breakfast aboard the Ocean Endeavour.

After saying our farewells to our Expedition Team and the crew of the Ocean Endeavour, we transfer you to the airport for your onward flight, or you may like to spend extra days in Ushuaia, giving you time to explore this fascinating town and the surrounding areas.

DOWNLOAD ITINERARY PDF

WHY CHOOSE THIS CRUISE?

  • In three weeks, you will gain an extensive Antarctica experience including the South Shetland Islands, the Antarctic Peninsula, South Georgia and several locations on the Falkland Islands.

  • You will experience the incredible diversity of the Antarctic region: from the rich wildlife and unique ecosystems to historic sites and research stations.

  • You will visit the Falkland Island archipelago and South Georgia. These places offer an abundance of wildlife and are a paradise for wildlife enthusiasts and photographers alike.

  • You will have the possibility to step foot on the great white continent to experience some of the most unique wildlife viewing and inspiring scenery in the world.

  • While at sea, the expedition team will prepare you for your Antarctic experience. They will provide you with insights on everything Antarctic - from the history and geology to the incredible wildlife.

 Ocean Endeavour

Ocean Endeavour

Your experiences through the Ocean Endeavour's in-depth expedition program is the number one priority!     

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.

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.     
 

Ocean Endeavour Antarctica brochure

Download the Ocean Endeavour brochure


vink WHY CHOOSE THIS SHIP

We offer carbon offset departures.     
We quantify our carbon usage and then purchase carbon credits from various projects to offset our impact. 

We are assisting in scientific research.    
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   

We have an 8:1 passenger to expedition crew ratio.    
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.  

We have a fleet of 20 zodiacs and multiple loading points.    
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.   

No single supplements on single cabins.     
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.   

We offer a large variety of activities.    
Yoga,, kayaking, day paddle, stand-up paddleboarding, zodiac excursions and cruises, our exclusive photography program, and camping. 

OPTIONAL ACTIVITIES

PHOTOGRAPHY PROGRAM     
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 >   

ICE CAMPING    
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 >   

SEA KAYAKING    
Experience the unforgettable thrill and serenity of kayaking in Antarctica as part of a small, expertly guided paddling group. Learn More >   

SNOWSHOEING    
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 >   

DAY PADDLE     
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 >     

STAND-UP PADDLE BOARDING    
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

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

Accommodation

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.

Standard

Comfortable properties with dependable facilities and service.

Superior

Comfortable properties with dependable facilities and service.

Deluxe

Luxurious properties with impeccable facilities and service.

OPTIONAL ACTIVITIES

Optional Activities vary for each itinerary. Limited spaces available. Contact your Destination Specialist for pricing & availability.

Kayaking

Experience the unforgettable thrill and serenity of kayaking in Antarctica as part of a small, expertly guided paddling group.

Learn More

Camping

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

Stand-up Paddle Boarding

Stand-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 More

Photography

For photography enthusiasts of any skill level. You will receive expert advice on taking and producing amazing photos of Antarctica.

Learn More

Yoga

Practicing yoga on your Antarctic expedition is an excellent way to relax, heighten your senses and really open yourself to the experience.

Learn More

Day Paddling

If 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 More
Departing Ending Duration From Price
20 Nov 2023 10 Dec 2023 21 NZD 24,999
Cabin Type From Price
CAT 1 - Single Cabin NZD 29,049
CAT 2 - Triple Cabin NZD 24,999
CAT 3 - Twin Interior LIMITEDNZD 28,330
CAT 4 - Twin Porthole NZD 25,320
CAT 4A - Single Porthole NZD 35,950
CAT 5 - Twin/Double Main Cabin NZD 26,510
CAT 5A - Single Main Cabin SOLD OUTSOLD OUT
CAT 6 - Comfort Twin LIMITEDNZD 27,295
CAT 7 - Select Twin LIMITEDNZD 28,410
CAT 8 - Superior Twin/Double LIMITEDNZD 29,195
CAT 9 - Junior Suite Double LIMITEDNZD 31,110
CAT 10 - Owners Suite Double SOLD OUTSOLD OUT
08 Jan 2024 28 Jan 2024 21 NZD 28,569
Cabin Type From Price
CAT 1 - Single Cabin LIMITEDNZD 30,239
CAT 2 - Triple Cabin LIMITEDNZD 29,999
CAT 3 - Twin Interior LIMITEDNZD 33,329
CAT 4 - Twin Porthole SOLD OUTSOLD OUT
CAT 4A - Single Porthole SOLD OUTSOLD OUT
CAT 5 - Twin/Double Main Cabin LIMITEDNZD 28,569
CAT 5A - Single Main Cabin SOLD OUTSOLD OUT
CAT 6 - Comfort Twin SOLD OUT SOLD OUT
CAT 7 - Select Twin SOLD OUTSOLD OUT
CAT 8 - Superior Twin/Double SOLD OUT SOLD OUT
CAT 9 - Junior Suite Double SOLD OUTSOLD OUT
CAT 10 - Owners Suite Double SOLD OUTSOLD OUT

Important Information

  • 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 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

  • 2 (light adventure)
  • 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.

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