Join an 11-day voyage aboard Ocean Endeavour to explore the South Shetland Islands, and the Antarctic Peninsula. You’ll depart from Ushuaia in Argentina at the southernmost tip of South America to navigate the famous Drake Passage and reach these pristine polar terrains.
Enjoy the beauty of the Antarctic wilderness on foot and in forward-facing zodiacs. Adventurers can kayak among sea ice, icebergs and spend a night under the stars in the 7th continent. They can also snowshoe along the path of historical explorers. Discover vast penguin colony, seal pups and playful seals. Search for majestic humpback whales, minke and orca.
Enjoy expert-led lectures on regional history and zoology. Enjoy a spa treatment or a yoga session in the stunning polar landscape. This trip will leave you with memories that you’ll cherish forever.
Day 1 : Arrival In Ushuaia
Ushuaia, the southernmost city in the entire world and capital of Tierra del Fuego is the southerlymost city on the planet. The dramatic landscape, with mountains to the north, and the Beagle Channel in the south, makes it an ideal starting point for your Antarctic adventure. Please proceed to the Arrivals hall at Ushuaia Airport where our representative is waiting to take you to your hotel. The representative will hold a sign that has the name of your ship on it. If you are unable to find them, the emergency contact information of our representative is listed on your itinerary. The cruise itinerary starts with an overnight stay at Ushuaia. Arriving in Ushuaia before sunrise allows you to enjoy the entire day.
Avenida de San Martin, and its surrounding streets, are home to the majority of hotels, restaurants, shops, cafes, and tourist services. Museo Maritimo y del Presidio de Ushuaia is a must-see. The prison buildings in Ushuaia now house four museums – the Maritime Museum (Maritime Museum), the Prison Museum (Prison Museum), the Antarctic Museum, and the Marine Museum of Art. The prison buildings date from 1906, when convicts transferred from Isla de los Estados were moved to Ushuaia in order to build the national prison.
The construction was completed in 1920, and the cells were originally designed to hold 380 prisoners. However, they held 800 prisoners until 1947. Tierra del Fuego National Park, the first shoreline park in Argentina, is just a short drive from Ushuaia. The park is rugged and mountainous with dramatic views of Lapataia Bay, waterfalls, mountains and glaciers. The park has many hiking trails, including the Coastal Path that connects Ensenada Bay with Lapataia Bay at Lago Roca. Many species of animals live in the park, including guanacos, Andean Foxes, North American Beavers, European Rabbits and Muskrats. Many species of birds live in the park, including the torrent goose, kelp geese, austral parakeets, Andean Condors, and Magellanic oystercatchers. Fin del Mundo Train is a steam-powered train that runs between Ushuaia and Tierra del Fuego National Park. It’s a great alternative to getting to the park.
Day 2 : Embarkation In Ushuaia
You can spend the morning exploring Ushuaia. Wander through its streets or explore Tierra del Fuego National Park. In the late afternoon, transfer to Ushuaia’s pier for your embarkation. The Expedition Team will welcome you onboard the Ocean Endeavour. We will be sailing through the Beagle Channel, named after the British ship HMS Beagle. The Tierra del Fuego Archipelago is located in extreme southern South America and this famous channel runs through it. It’s rich with wildlife. From the deck, keep an eye out for Magellanic Penguins, Rock Cormorants, Petrels, and Black-Browed Albatross as well as Sea Lion colonies. You will get your first taste of sea life and enjoy a welcome meal. Your next sight of land is Antarctica – The White Continent.
Photo: Khrobostov
Day 3 & 4 : Drake Passage
Prepare yourself for rough seas when we enter the legendary Drake Passage. This notorious and unpredictable water channel separates the southernmost point of South America from Antarctic Peninsula. The English explorer Sir Frances Drake named it. The Expedition Team will give you a glimpse of the exciting adventure ahead as we travel south. They will also provide presentations on the history, geology and wildlife. As we enter the Antarctic Ocean, the temperature will drop as we cross over the Antarctic Convergence. The Antarctic Convergence is where the cooler polar waters moving north meet the warmer waters flowing south. This mixing brings nutrient-rich waters to the surface and attracts seabirds, dolphins, and other species. You can either look out the panoramic windows on the ship or brave the elements to be outside. Keep your eyes open for albatrosses, icebergs, and even whales breaching. We leave the Antarctic Convergence behind us and continue south to Antarctica. If conditions are good, we may make landfall on Day 4 by early evening. It is always exciting to see land for the first time. This can be considered as the beginning of an Antarctic expedition.
Photo: Erwin Vermeulen
Day 5 & 8 : South Shetlands And Antarctica
We will spend the next four nights exploring the South Shetland Islands, Antarctic Peninsula, which is renowned for its majestic mountains and glaciers. It also has icebergs and a variety of wildlife. Antarctica’s scenery, wildlife, and tranquil silence will capture your attention. You will quickly discover why this region has captured the attention of travellers and explorers for centuries. The Antarctic Peninsula is the heart of your journey. Each day will be unique as we explore the local bays and channels by Zodiac and cruise among the sculpted icebergs.
The unpredictable weather and ice conditions will mean the itinerary is flexible. We will explore penguin colonies, seal and bird colony, whale feeding areas, and sites of historical and scientific importance, and climb to vantage points to get panoramic views. Your expedition will be unlike any other, as there is always something unexpected or new to see. You can kayak, snowshoe, and take photos with an expert. You can watch penguins on the beach and spot whales, seals, and other wildlife while you are in a Zodiac. Visit a research station, hear the thunderous crack of a glacier calving, and even take a plunge into the cold waters. The lecture program continues as we cruise along the Peninsula. Sightseeing is best done from the outer decks of the ship. The Ocean Endeavour has been redesigned to include new health and fitness facilities, including a gym, His and Hers Saunas, a saltwater pool, and a yoga session.
Photo: ValerieVS
Day 9 & 10 : Drake Passage
Today, we hope to make a final shore landing or excursion before leaving the Antarctic Peninsula and heading back across the Drake Passage. You can also identify whales or seabirds from the deck as your Expedition Team helps you. Attending the final lectures and presentations of the polar specialists will give you a deeper understanding of the region. You can also relax and reflect on your Antarctic experience. We hope to return by the evening in the calm waters of the Beagle Channel and ensure a good night’s sleep aboard.
Photo: jkraft5
Day 11 : Disembarkation In Ushuaia
After breakfast, your Antarctic adventure comes to an end as you depart the Ocean Endeavour. After breakfast, you will depart the Ocean Endeavour for the airport in Ushuaia for your flight home (included with selected departures today). If you wish to extend your stay or explore this amazing part of the globe further, you can then make your way back to your hotel. There is so much to do and see in this charming ‘End of the World town’, such as the Museo Maritimo or Avenida San Martin, that your adventure does not have to stop here.
Please contact your booking agent if you wish to extend your stay in Ushuaia. Transfers to the city center after disembarkation or to the airport (for select departures today) are included. We can arrange transport at an extra cost if you wish to extend your stay, or if you do not meet the criteria for the transfers included. Please discuss this with your agent. It is recommended that you do not book your flight from Ushuaia prior to midday of the day of disembarkation in case weather delays cause delays. The cruise itinerary can be changed depending on the weather, ice conditions, and other factors.
- Ushuaia, Gateway to Antarctica
- Ushuaia is the southernmost town in the world. It offers a spectacular setting, surrounded by mountains, and the Beagle Channel.
- The Maritime & Prison of Ushuaia Museum is housed in the old prison and reflects the rich history of the city.
- Tierra del Fuego National Park is home to guanacos, Andean foxes, and a variety of wildlife, including rugged landscapes.
- Sail and Embarkation through the Beagle Channel
- Transfer to the pier and embark on the Ocean Endeavour.
- Beagle Channel is a rich wildlife area, with Magellanic penguins and sea lions as well as a variety of seabirds.
- Welcome dinner aboard the ship is a great way to get excited about the upcoming Antarctic expedition.
- Drake Passage Crossing & Antarctic Convergence
- As the ship enters Drake Passage, expect rough seas.
- The Expedition Team will present on Antarctic history, wildlife, and geology.
- Enjoy the temperature drop and the crossing the Antarctic Convergence. This is a point where polar and equatorial water meet, with a plethora of seabirds and marine wildlife.
- Exploration the South Shetland Islands, Antarctic Peninsula
- Discover the magnificent landscapes, the glaciers and the abundant wildlife on the Antarctic Peninsula.
- Explore local bays, channels and landing sites by Zodiac.
- The itinerary can be flexible to allow for wildlife viewings, historic sites and activities such as kayaking and snowshoeing.
- Disembarkation and Final Excursions
- Enjoy a final Antarctica excursion or a shore landing before returning across the Drake Passage.
- Onboard, you can attend the final lectures and presentations of polar experts.
- The Antarctic adventure ends when you disembark Ocean Endeavour at Ushuaia.
- Exploring Ushuaia Post-Expedition
- Enjoy a variety of activities in Ushuaia including exploring the Maritime Museum and Avenida San Martin or taking adventurous hikes, such as to the Martial Glacier.
- You can extend your stay by adding additional nights in Ushuaia.
- Climate Preparedness:
- Packing layers of clothing is essential for unpredictable weather conditions. This includes waterproof gear and warm coats.
- Even on cloudy days in Antarctica, UV radiation is intense.
- Excursion gear:
- Wear comfortable, sturdy shoes for your land excursions. Also wear gloves and a cap to protect yourself from the cold.
- Check with the company if they provide the necessary equipment for activities such as kayaking or skiing.
- Health and Wellness
- If you are prone to motion sickness, bring along some medication. This is especially important if you plan on crossing the Drake Passage.
- Before traveling, it’s crucial to follow health advice. This includes vaccinations and insurance that covers emergencies in remote areas.
- Photographic and Electronic Equipment:
- Make sure you have extra memory cards and batteries for your camera. You’ll want them to capture the beautiful landscapes and wildlife.
- Use cases to protect your electronic devices against extreme cold and keep them covered when not in usage.
- Flexibility & Adaptability:
- Keep a flexible attitude, as weather conditions or ice conditions may affect the planned activities.
- It is important to be patient and understand any changes made to the program. This will help ensure your safety and provide the best experience possible in Antarctica.
- Conservation of the Environment and Environmental Respect
- Be sure to follow all environmental regulations and rules when on land. Avoid disturbing wildlife and leave only footprints.
- Take part in conservation efforts such as cleaning up litter, to preserve the beauty of the Antarctic environment.
- Emergency Contact and Communication:
- If you require assistance on your cruise, you should have the contact information provided by the cruise line at hand.
- To ensure that you have a comfortable and safe experience, communicate any health or special needs to the expedition team.
10 nights on board at Hondius, Plancius or Ortelius
- Understanding Antarctic Climate:
- Antarctic weather is unpredictable and can change rapidly in terms of temperature, wind speed and precipitation.
- Layering Clothing:
- Dress in layers so you can adapt to changing conditions. Layers are best. Start with a moisture wicking base, then add layers of insulation like down or fleece jackets. Finally, top off the outfit with a waterproof, windproof, and waterproof outer layer.
- Protective Gear
- When you are on a wet or icy terrain, it is important to wear waterproof boots with insulated soles.
- Protect exposed skin against frostbite or windburn by investing in high-quality hats, gloves and neck gaiters.
- Sun Protection:
- The sun’s rays are still intense even when temperatures are cold due to the reflection of ice and snow. Use sunglasses with UV protection and sunscreen that has a high rating.
- Wind Considerations
- Prepare for strong winds when you are out in the open, especially if you plan to do outdoor activities. Bring a windproof shell or jacket to keep the body warm and block out the wind.
- Stay Hydrated with
- Staying hydrated in the cold is important. To prevent dehydration due to the dry Antarctic air, drink plenty of water during the day.
- Emergency Supplies
- In case of sudden changes in the weather or prolonged outdoor excursions, carry emergency supplies like extra clothing, food and water.
- Weather updates:
- Keep up to date with weather updates and forecasts provided by the team leading your expedition or staff onboard. Prepare to make adjustments based on the weather.
- Safety Guidelines:
- Follow the safety instructions and guidelines provided by your expedition team. To ensure your safety, and the safety of others, avoid taking unnecessary risks during extreme weather conditions.
- General Mobile Mobility:
- Participants must be able to move around uneven terrain on shore excursions, and in potentially difficult conditions like boarding Zodiacs.
- Physical Strength:
- Expect moderate physical activity, such as walking on varied terrain or longer hikes at Tierra del Fuego National Park and Antarctic Peninsula landings.
- Zodiac Transfers:
- As the Zodiac boat is used for wildlife viewing and shore excursions, it’s important to be comfortable with boarding and debarking.
- Optional Activities
- Some optional activities, such as snowshoeing or kayaking, may require more physical effort. These activities require a certain level of fitness and flexibility.
- Health Concerns:
- Participants should be aware of any existing health conditions or limitations that could affect their ability participate in an activity. Before embarking on an expedition, it’s best to consult a medical professional.
- Adaptability:
- Although a moderate fitness level is recommended, the expedition staff can accommodate participants who have varying levels of fitness or mobility issues. They may offer assistance or alternative options.
- Safety First
- Participants should always adhere to the instructions of the expedition team in order to have a safe, enjoyable and memorable experience.
