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Best of Antarctica: White Christmas | Ocean Endeavour

11 Days
From USD 9,949

STYLE: Small Ship Expedition Cruise 

Trip Code: ACOEBWC

DIFFICULTY RATING: 2 (light adventure)

Start: Ushuaia, Argentina

Finish: Ushuaia, Argentina

SHIP: Ocean Endeavour

DestinationDestination

Antarctica; Antarctic Peninsula

DestinationDeparture Date

18/12/2023

MealsMeals

Breakfast at Hotel & All Meals Onboard the Ship

TransportTransport

Group Transfers On Arrival, Embarkation & Disembarkation

TransportAccommodation

Hotel & Cabin Onboard a Ship



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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

There’s nothing more magical than journeying to Antarctica and experiencing the ice-capped mountain ranges, iconic Antarctic wildlife and immense icebergs and glaciers over the Christmas period. During this 11-day expedition, you’ll have the chance to set foot on the Antarctic Peninsula, visit penguin rookeries, spot Minke and Humpback whales up close from your Zodiac, photograph seals resting on ice floes and more. For the brave souls, participate in the Polar Plunge before warming up in the sauna or trying some on-board yoga. The team ensures the spirit on board the Ocean Endeavour over the holiday season is festive and fun, delivering a one-in-a-lifetime experience to make this a Christmas adventure to remember. 

PLEASE BE ADVISED THIS DEPARTURE IS NOW CRUISE ONLY AND WILL DEPART FROM USHUAIA ON 19 DEC. We will endevour to source alternative accommodation for the pre night, please speak to one of our Destination Specalists. 

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

 

ITINERARY

Ushuaia, Argentina

Your journey starts in the most southerly city in the world, Ushuaia Argentina. You will be met by a representative from the ship who will have a sign with the ship name at the airport and transfer to your hotel. If you cannot locate the representative please refer to the contact details on your final itinerary. After getting acquainted with your fellow travellers, we’ll have our welcome briefing. If you arrive early, Tierra del Fuego National Park has an array of outdoor activities on offer. You can also visit the Museo Maritimo for a history lesson or take a stroll down Avenida San Martin to pick up some last-minute essentials for your journey.

Embarkation In Ushuaia

The morning is free for you to explore Ushuaia further. Late this afternoon you’ll be transferred to the city’s port to board the Ocean Endeavour. The Expedition Team and Captain will be waiting to welcome you onboard and after settling into your cabin, your journey south begins by cruising through the famed Beagle Channel. Enjoy the incredible views as the last glimpse of land fades away and the ship heads south towards Antarctica.

At Sea, Drake Passage - Days 3 & 4

The waters of the Drake Passage are legendary. Named after British seafarer Sir Francis Drake, they're often rough and turbulent, but sometimes as calm as a lake. Our journey to the Antarctic Peninsula will take two days and, if conditions allow, you’ll be able to enjoy the outer decks to catch your first glimpse of whales and orcas, as well as a wide range of seabirds that live in the region, including the impressive Wandering albatross. Our comprehensive lecture program will also get underway, with your team of polar experts sharing fascinating insights into Antarctica’s history, geology, biology, and everything in between.

Spend this downtime enjoying the onboard facilities including gym, polar library, yoga classes and more. We’re scheduled to reach the Antarctic Peninsula by early evening on day four.

Christmas in Antarctica- Days 5 to 8

Welcome to the Antarctic Peninsula, where a vast amount of wildlife can be found with a backdrop of ice, water and mountains. The sheer scale of everything must be seen to be believed. Scheduled twice daily, Zodiac excursions are tailored to allow for closer encounters with marine life including whales and seals, while onshore exploration might take you to penguin rookeries. Choose from a range of paid adventure options to enhance your adventure, including snowshoeing excursions or overnight ice camping, hit the water for a day paddle or kayaking excursion, or learn how to capture that perfect shot by joining our dedicated Photography Program. Our lecture program will continue throughout your time on the Antarctic Peninsula and our Expedition Team will always be available to answer any questions you may have about the region.

If you've been dreaming of a white Christmas, this is as white as it gets! Enjoy the festive spirit on board the Ocean Endeavour, where your presents come in the form of more landings and wildlife sightings throughout the day. Some of these wildlife encounters are likely to include Weddell, Crabeater and Leopard seals, and Gentoo, Adelie and Chinstrap penguins.

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 - Days 9 & 10

As you leave Antarctica behind, cruising north to Ushuaia, you’ll have the time to reflect on the amazing journey and unique Christmas. We’re scheduled to reach the waters of the Beagle Channel by the evening to ensure a restful night’s sleep before disembarkation day. Our final meal together is often a highlight, so live it up and enjoy it as you celebrate the journey with your fellow travellers.

Disembarkation In Ushuaia, Argentina

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.

DOWNLOAD ITINERARY PDF

WHY CHOOSE THIS CRUISE?

  • White Christmas is guaranteed when you explore this icy white continent over the festive period.

  • Penguin chicks are hatching and in abundance on the Peninsula and South Shetland Islands, so it’s a perfect time for wildlife lovers.  

  • The longer summer days gives us 22 hours of daylight to maximise the time for exploration.

  • Benefit from a variety of on-board activities including educational lectures on history, geology, photography and ecology by the expedition team.

 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

Snowshoeing

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

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

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
Departing Ending Duration From Price
18 Dec 2023 28 Dec 2023 11 USD 8,799
Cabin Type From Price
CAT 1 - Single Cabin LIMITEDUSD 9,795
CAT 2 - Triple Cabin LIMITEDUSD 8,799
CAT 3 - Twin Interior SOLD OUTSOLD OUT
CAT 4 - Twin Porthole LIMITEDUSD 8,895
CAT 4A - Single Porthole SOLD OUTSOLD OUT
CAT 5 - Twin/Double Main Cabin LIMITEDUSD 9,399
CAT 5A - Single Main Cabin SOLD OUTSOLD OUT
CAT 6 - Comfort Twin SOLD OUTSOLD OUT
CAT 7 - Select Twin SOLD OUTSOLD OUT
CAT 8 - Superior Twin/Double LIMITEDUSD 10,649
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 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.

  • 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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