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Best of Antarctica: In Depth | Ocean Endeavour

Save 30% on Cat 8-10 / Save 20% on Cat 1-7 

LIMITED AVAILABILITY - Please Contact Us for the latest availability

Available until 31 Oct 24 unless withdrawn prior

See additional T&Cs below*

14 Days
From NZD 18,749

STYLE: Small Ship Expedition Cruise

Trip Code: ACAEAID

DIFFICULTY RATING: 2 (light adventure)

Start: Ushuaia, Argentina

Finish: Ushuaia, Argentina

SHIP: Ocean Endeavour

DestinationDestination

Antarctic Sound, Lemaire Channel, Antarctic Peninsula and South Shetland Islands

MealsMeals

Breakfast at Hotel & All Meals Onboard the Ship

TransportTransport

Group Transfers On Arrival, Embarkation & Disembarkation

TransportAccommodation

Hotel & Cabin On board a Ship



Enquire Now
map

Included SightseeingIncluded Sightseeing

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 

OVERVIEW

This is the ULTIMATE Antarctic Peninsula journey. More days on the peninsula at affordable prices! 

Visiting Antarctica is nothing shy of mind blowing! After a formidable journey across the Drake Passage, the endless seascape will give way to great white ethereal vistas, sculptured by ice, and weathered by isolation. This journey will take you from Ushuaia to the South Shetland Islands and onto the Antarctic Peninsula where you will be swathed in the beauty of the most enigmatic place on earth and greeted by an abundance of wildlife.  On this complete encounter, you will go on a deeper exploration than your average peninsula cruise and with the right conditions, venture over to the Weddell Sea where tabular icebergs lay and the history of Antarctic Exploration sighs in echoes through the rarely visited landscapes. 

ITINERARY

Arrival in Ushuaia

Welcome to the port city of Ushuaia for the beginning of your Antarctic adventure. Upon arrival, you will be transferred to your hotel to settle in before meeting your fellow travellers this evening at the welcome briefing.

If you’re arriving earlier there are plenty of activities to choose from in the area. Visit Tierra del Fuego National Park on a full day’s adventure, tackle part of the Martial Mountains for a memorable view over the Beagle Channel, or perhaps just take a walk around town and enjoy the cafe scene.

Please note: An arrival transfer from the airport is included if you arrive in Ushuaia on Day 1. 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.

Ushuaia Embarkation

Explore the charming town of Ushuaia in the morning before embarking on your home away from home for your Antarctic expedition, the Ocean Endeavour.

In the morning perhaps visit the Museo Maritimo to brush up on local history, or just enjoy a morning strolling this languid town. Board the Ocean Endeavour in the afternoon and meet your expedition team before taking a tour of the amenities and services available on the ship.

After you have settled into your cabin, head out onto the outer decks to wave goodbye to Argentina and then find your sea legs as you say hello to the legendary Drake Passage. Next stop: Antarctica.

Crossing The Drake - Days 3 & 4

The next two days are all about relaxing and getting to know your team of polar experts as they share their in-depth knowledge about all things Antarctica.

You will have the opportunity to enjoy presentations about the continent’s geography, environment and wildlife.

Spot seabirds flying with the Ocean Endeavour as she heads south to the Great White Continent, keeping an eye out for albatross on their migration route.

Keep your eyes peeled for breaching whales and other marine mammals in the Southern Ocean as you cosy up with a drink at the bar while getting to know your fellow shipmates.

If our lecture program by our expert guides is not enough to fill your days, the Ocean Endeavour’s gym, polar library and sauna will keep you busy while crossing the Drake Passage.

With favourable conditions, you should see your first sighting of land by early evening on day four.

East Antarctic Peninsula - Days 5 to 7

This is a true exploration, so all going to plan, today will see the ship’s bow cruising around the eastern end of the Antarctic Sound, leaving you facing the wild coastlines of the Peninsula’s eastern side. The vast Weddell Sea is edged by a seemingly endless coastline of basaltic beaches, islands that tower from the sea and collections of islands that few humans have laid eyes on. This is where British explorer Sir Ernest Shackleton and his crew began their legendary journey north after their ship 'Endurance' was crushed by sea ice and sank. There are so many potential landing sites from this location, like Paulet Island with its large Adelie penguin rookery and Swedish Antarctic expedition history; the sweeping Prince Gustav Channel to the south, and the protected and glacier-lined coves of Duse Bay. Spend the next few days exploring via Zodiac cruises and onshore excursions across a number of potential remote landing sites around the Eagle Island group.

An average day onboard begins with a wake-up call from your expedition leader around 7am, giving you time to prepare for the day before joining your fellow expeditioners for breakfast in the Polaris restaurant. You will usually have two excursions per day, one in the morning and one in the afternoon, with a delicious lunch served on the Ocean Endeavour in between excursions.

West Antarctic Peninsula & S Shetland - Days 8-11

After three days exploring the peninsula’s rarely visited east side, it’s time to cross back through the Antarctic Sound for the better known, but no less spectacular, western shores. As the ship attempts to enter the sound, a collection of tabular icebergs typically serves as a gateway from east to west and locations like the Argentinean research station, Esperanza Station, and the volcanic cliffs of Brown Bluff are viable landing points along the way.

For the next four days, explore well-known sites like Orne Harbour, Paradise Bay or Port Lockroy as you head on wildlife sightings, take to the Zodiacs for small group outings and soak up the unforgettable vistas that greet you at every turn. With multiple landing sites available, your expedition team will work out the best places to stop, taking into account the elements, accessibility and wildlife opportunities. You'll soon notice the contrast with the sense of isolation on the east side, as you won't find an excursion on the western side lasts long without a parade of penguins or marine mammal sightings. After four memorable days, the Ocean Endeavour will turn north, cross the Bransfield Strait and head through the South Shetland Islands. Now’s the perfect time to join your crew and fellow explorers on the deck for a final toast to the Antarctic.

No two days of any expedition are the same, and landing sites are subject to change depending on the elements and potential wildlife spotting opportunities, but our expert team of expedition guides will ensure that each day is memorable, offering you a sense of exploration and adventure unlike anywhere else on earth.

An average day onboard begins with a wake-up call from your expedition leader around 7am, giving you time to prepare for the day before joining your fellow expeditioners for breakfast in the Polaris restaurant.

You will usually have two excursions per day, one in the morning and one in the afternoon, with a delicious lunch served on the Ocean Endeavour in between excursions.

Drake Passage - Days 12 & 13

Settle back into the comfortable surroundings of the Ocean Endeavour for the return journey across the Drake Passage as you track north towards Cape Horn to your destination of Ushuaia, Argentina.

This is your last chance to soak up the experience and knowledge of your expedition team before the end of your voyage, so make sure you join them on the outer decks with binoculars in hand to spot the surrounding wildlife.

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 before bidding farewell.

Disembarkation in Ushuaia

This morning, following breakfast, farewell the Ocean Endeavour and youir Expedition Team and ships crew and staff as you disembark in Ushuaia. A transfer to Ushuaia airport or downtown is included if you’re departing today.

SPECIAL INFORMATION If you would like to stay on in Ushuaia beyond today or would like to explore South America, please speak to your booking agent to discuss options. If you are flying out today, please don’t book your flight to depart Ushuaia before midday in case of any delays caused by unfavourable weather conditions.

Please note: Cruise itinerary is subject to change depending on weather conditions, ice conditions and other factors.

DOWNLOAD ITINERARY PDF

WHY CHOOSE THIS CRUISE?

  • Traverse the Antarctic Sound - – a body of water that links east with west and is usually home to large tabular icebergs and startling scenery.

  • We will seek to visit Paulet Island, the Danger Islands and the Eagle Group – chains of islands famous for their enormous penguin colonies, exploration history and geological features.

  • Visit the Peninsula’s western side where Antarctica’s more famous sites are found such as the Lemaire Channel, Port Lockroy and Paradise Harbour.

  • After turning north, explore the dramatic shores of the South Shetland Islands or spot for albatross and orca while we cross the Bransfield Strait.

 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.  

The Ocean Endeavour is designed for 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

Snowshoeing

Go even deeper into Antarctica’s interior and reach less visited places where many other visitors simply don’t go! 

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

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

Pricing per person

* Please note pricing is a guide only. Contact us now for the most up to date cost.

CAT 1 - Single Cabin

Features-

Approximately 122 sq.ft. (11 sq.m), a Single Interior on Deck 5 is an interior cabin with two lower berths and a private bathroom.

NZD 22,666

Limited

Enquire Now
  • Single (1 berth)

CAT 2 - Triple Cabin

Features-

Approximately 220 to 230 sq.ft. (20 to 21.5 sq.m.), our Triple Interior on Deck 4 is an interior cabin with three lower berths and one or two private bathrooms.

Sold Out

Enquire Now
  • Triple (3 berth)
  • Share Male (1 berth)
  • Share Female (1 berth)

CAT 3 - Twin Interior

Features-

Approximately 120 sq.ft. (11 sq.m.), a Twin Interior on Deck 4 is an interior cabin with two lower berths and a private bathroom.

NZD 18,749

Limited

Enquire Now
  • Twin (2 berth)
  • Single (1 berth)
  • Share Male (1 berth)
  • Share Female (1 berth)

CAT 4 - Twin Porthole

Features-

Twin Cabins on Deck 4 & 5 are approximately 110 sq.ft. (10 sq.m), and feature a porthole or window, two lower berths and a private bathroom.

Sold Out

Enquire Now
  • Twin (2 berth)
  • Single (1 berth)
  • Share Male (1 berth)
  • Share Female (1 berth)

CAT 4A - Single Porthole

Features-

Approximately 76 sq.ft. (7 sq.m.) our Singles on Deck 4 feature a porthole, two lower berths and a private bathroom.

NZD 28,666

Limited

Enquire Now
  • Single (1 berth)

CAT 5 - Twin/Double Main Cabin

Features-

Our Twins & Doubles on Deck 7 & 8 are approximately 141 sq.ft. (13 sq.m), feature one or two windows, two lower berths or a double bed and a private bathroom.

NZD 20,749

Available

Enquire Now
  • Twin/Double (2 berth)
  • Single (1 berth)
  • Share Male (1 berth)
  • Share Female (1 berth)

CAT 5A - Single Main Cabin

Features-

Approximately 155 to 174 sq.ft. (14 to 16 sq.m.), our Singles are WING cabins located on Deck 8 feature two windows, a double bed and a private bathroom.

Sold Out

Enquire Now
  • Single (1 berth)

CAT 6 - Comfort Twin

Features-

Approximately 228 sq.ft (21 sq.m), a Comfort Twin on Deck 4 features two portholes, two single berths, a separate sitting area with a pull out sofa bed and a private bathroom.

NZD 21,749

Limited

Enquire Now
  • Twin (2 berth)
  • Single (1 berth)
  • Share Male (1 berth)
  • Share Female (1 berth)

CAT 7 - Select Twin

Features-

Approximately 214 sq.ft. (20 sq.m), a Select Twin on Deck 5 features two single berths, a separate sitting area with a pull out sofa bed, two windows, and one or two private bathrooms.

NZD 23,499

Limited

Enquire Now
  • Twin (2 berth)
  • Single (1 berth)
  • Share Male (1 berth)
  • Share Female (1 berth)

CAT 8 - Superior Twin/Double

Features-

Approximately 165 to 200 sq.ft. (15 to 19 sq.m) on Deck 7 and features one double bed, a sofa, a large window and a private bathroom.

Sold Out

Enquire Now
  • Twin/Double (2 berth)
  • Single (1 berth)

CAT 9 - Junior Suite Double

Features-

Twin: Approximately 225 sq.ft. (21 sq.m.), a Superior Twin on Deck 5 features two lower berths, a separate sitting area with a pull out sofa bed, a large window, and a private bathroom. Double: Approximately 165 to 200 sq.ft. / 15 to 19 sq.m, a Superior Double on Deck 7 features one double bed, a sofa, a large window, and a private bathroom.

NZD 26,416

Limited

Enquire Now
  • Double (2 berth)
  • Single (1 berth)

CAT 10 - Owners Suite Double

Features-

Approximately 305 sq.ft./ 28 sq.m, the Owner's Suite on Deck 7 features two large bow-facing windows, one double bed, a separate sitting room and a private bathroom with a tub.

Sold Out

Enquire Now
  • Double (2 berth)
  • Single (1 berth)

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Important Information

  • 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.

  • 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

  • 2 (light adventure)
  • Available on request. No single supplement if willing to share. Contact us for more details.

  • Departure Date,  Fuel Surcharges, Cabin Category, Currency Fluctuations, Seasonality & Availability.

From Price & Discount Information

  • From Price is based on a Cat 5 Twin Main Exterior Cabin 
  • Valid for 06 December 2024 Departure
  • See 'Pricing & Dates' tab for detailed departures, pricing and availability (Availability last updated 30 Sep 24)
  • Available until 31 Oct 24 unless sold out/withdrawn prior 


Please Contact Us for the latest availability, pricing and details of your preferred voyage. Chimu Adventures are Antarctica Experts and we will endeavour to find you the perfect Antarctica expedition cruise to ensure you have an unforgettable adventure!

See detailed promotional T&Cs below

NOTE: Pricing is subject to change, currency fluctuation and availability at the time of booking and may be varied without notice by us or any of the operators and partners we work with. It is only confirmed and guaranteed at the time of making a booking, agreeing to our terms and conditions and paying a deposit.