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Best of Antarctica: Wildlife 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**

11 Days
From NZD 13,350

Trip Code: ACACWLX

DIFFICULTY RATING: 2 (light adventure)

Start: Ushuaia, Argentina

Finish: Ushuaia, Argentina

SHIP: Ocean Endeavour

DestinationDestination

Antarctic Peninsula, South Shetland Islands

DestinationDeparture Date

09/12/2023, 27/01/2024, 18/12/2024, 27/12/2024, 26/01/2025

MealsMeals

Breakfast at Hotel & All Meals Onboard the Ship

TransportTransport

Group Transfers On Arrival, Embarkation & Disembarkation

TransportAccommodation

Hotel & Cabin Onboard a Ship



Enquire Now
map

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

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.  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. 
 

**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 27th of Jan 2023 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 - Day 1

The journey begins at the world’s southernmost city, Ushuaia. You will be briefed at your hotel on the journey that lies ahead and the details for tomorrow’s embarkation. If you have spare time, 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 for Antarctica. Enjoy a traditional meal at a local restaurant and sample some of Argentina's famous red wine. For the adventurous travellers, there are many hiking trails nearby as well the Tierra del Fuego National Park.

Embarkation In Ushuaia - Day 2

You will board the Ocean Endeavour in the afternoon. Take some time to settle into your cabin as we begin cruising the stunning Beagle Channel, named after the famed vessel 'The Beagle' that facilitated some of Charles Darwin's most significant voyages. As the Ocean Endeavour pulls away from the port there’s always an air of anticipation, as the next time you see land, you will be when gazing upon the White Continent of Antarctica.

At Sea, Drake Passage - Day 3-4

The infamous Drake Passage, named after the famous English explorer, Sir Francis Drake, separates the tip of the Antarctic Peninsula from the southernmost tip of South America. Often rough and turbulent, but sometimes calm, be prepared for the unpredictable.
Over the next two days at sea you’ll have time to enjoy some of the onboard facilities, such as yoga, the polar library and presentations from the Expedition Team to prepare you for what lies ahead – from the geology of Antarctica to the history, wildlife and tips on how to best photograph what you’ll be witnessing.
Sailing 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 one of the spacious outer decks to look out for the mighty albatrosses that fly overhead. Scan the waters for breaching whales and icebergs or gaze out from the panoramic windows of the Ocean Endeavour's observation deck. Your first sighting of land should be early evening on day four – heralding your arrival to the White Continent.

South Shetland Isl & Antarctic Peninsula – Day 5-8

The next four days will be spend exploring the South Shetland Islands and Antarctic Peninsula – a region that has captivated explorers for centuries and now enthrals travellers.
Explore by Zodiac boats, cruising amongst the magnificently sculpted icebergs and making shore landings where you mingle with penguins, climb to vantage points to absorb the spectacular panoramic views and perhaps visit a scientific or historic base.
Optional activities such as kayaking or snowshoeing allow you to explore further afield and have a more intimate experience. If you’re feeling brave, take a polar plunge into the ice Antarctic waters while our talented Expedition Photographer captures the moments as they unfold.
Antarctica will enchant you with its incredible scenery, from imposing glaciers to towering snow-capped peaks, vast icebergs, and ice-strewn channels. Witness extensive colonies of Chinstrap, Gentoo and Adelie penguins, Crabeater, Weddell, Fur and Elephant seals and a plethora of fascinating birds. Keep your eyes and ears peeled for the mighty crack of a glacier calving. Each day brings a new experience and new landing sites to explore.
The lecture program will continue throughout the cruise, and you can also meander around the outer decks of the Ocean Endeavour spotting wildlife, read up on Shackleton’s adventure in the polar library or make the most of the ship’s wellness facilities like the spa, sauna, saltwater pool and gym.
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.

At Sea, Drake Passage – Day 9-10

Leave the Antarctic Peninsula behind as you set sail across the Drake Passage, enjoying some final lectures and presentations from the Expedition Team. Keep an eye out for wildlife from the observation lounge, outer decks or the Ocean Endeavour's bridge as we head north across the Antarctic Convergence.
Having crossed the Drake Passage once more, enjoy a final dinner and enter the calm and tranquil waters of the Beagle Channel as we approach our home port of Ushuaia.

Disembark In Ushuaia, Argentina – Day 11

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 today. Or perhaps extend your stay to spend some more time exploring this incredible part of the world.

DOWNLOAD ITINERARY PDF

WHY CHOOSE THIS CRUISE?

  • 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.

 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
09 Dec 2023 19 Dec 2023 11 NZD 13,970
Cabin Type From Price
CAT 1 - Single Cabin LIMITEDNZD 15,470
CAT 2 - Triple Cabin NZD 13,970
CAT 3 - Twin Interior NZD 15,790
CAT 4 - Twin Porthole NZD 14,130
CAT 4A - Single Porthole NZD 20,950
CAT 5 - Twin/Double Main Cabin NZD 14,920
CAT 5A - Single Main Cabin LIMITEDNZD 21,820
CAT 6 - Comfort Twin NZD 15,470
CAT 7 - Select Twin NZD 16,270
CAT 8 - Superior Twin/Double NZD 17,140
CAT 9 - Junior Suite Double NZD 18,330
CAT 10 - Owners Suite Double SOLD OUTSOLD OUT
27 Jan 2024 06 Feb 2024 11 NZD 15,159
Cabin Type From Price
CAT 1 - Single Cabin NZD 16,899
CAT 2 - Triple Cabin LIMITEDNZD 15,159
CAT 3 - Twin Interior LIMITEDNZD 17,139
CAT 4 - Twin Porthole LIMITEDNZD 15,319
CAT 4A - Single Porthole LIMITEDNZD 22,619
CAT 5 - Twin/Double Main Cabin NZD 16,269
CAT 5A - Single Main Cabin SOLD OUTSOLD OUT
CAT 6 - Comfort Twin NZD 16,819
CAT 7 - Select Twin SOLD OUTSOLD OUT
CAT 8 - Superior Twin/Double LIMITEDNZD 18,239
CAT 9 - Junior Suite Double LIMITEDNZD 19,599
CAT 10 - Owners Suite Double SOLD OUTSOLD OUT
18 Dec 2024 28 Dec 2024 11 NZD 14,680
Cabin Type From Price
CAT 1 - Single Cabin NZD 18,650
CAT 2 - Triple Cabin NZD 14,680
CAT 3 - Twin Interior NZD 15,470
CAT 4 - Twin Porthole NZD 16,270
CAT 4A - Single Porthole NZD 23,570
CAT 5 - Twin/Double Main Cabin NZD 17,060
CAT 5A - Single Main Cabin NZD 25,950
CAT 6 - Comfort Twin NZD 17,930
CAT 7 - Select Twin NZD 19,360
CAT 8 - Superior Twin/Double NZD 20,320
CAT 9 - Junior Suite Double NZD 21,740
CAT 10 - Owners Suite Double NZD 23,730
27 Dec 2024 06 Jan 2025 11 NZD 14,680
Cabin Type From Price
CAT 1 - Single Cabin NZD 18,650
CAT 2 - Triple Cabin NZD 14,680
CAT 3 - Twin Interior NZD 15,470
CAT 4 - Twin Porthole NZD 16,270
CAT 4A - Single Porthole NZD 23,570
CAT 5 - Twin/Double Main Cabin NZD 17,060
CAT 5A - Single Main Cabin NZD 25,950
CAT 6 - Comfort Twin NZD 17,930
CAT 7 - Select Twin NZD 19,360
CAT 8 - Superior Twin/Double NZD 20,320
CAT 9 - Junior Suite Double NZD 21,740
CAT 10 - Owners Suite Double NZD 23,730
26 Jan 2025 05 Feb 2025 11 NZD 14,680
Cabin Type From Price
CAT 1 - Single Cabin NZD 18,650
CAT 2 - Triple Cabin LIMITEDNZD 14,680
CAT 3 - Twin Interior LIMITEDNZD 15,470
CAT 4 - Twin Porthole NZD 16,270
CAT 4A - Single Porthole NZD 23,570
CAT 5 - Twin/Double Main Cabin NZD 17,060
CAT 5A - Single Main Cabin LIMITEDNZD 25,950
CAT 6 - Comfort Twin NZD 17,930
CAT 7 - Select Twin LIMITEDNZD 19,360
CAT 8 - Superior Twin/Double NZD 20,320
CAT 9 - Junior Suite Double NZD 21,740
CAT 10 - Owners Suite Double NZD 23,730

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 & Availability.

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