Journey to the Antarctic Circle (Ocean Endeavour)
Experience Overview
Set sail for an adventure like no other. Spend 14 days following in the wake of Captain Cook as you cross the Antarctic Circle, home to the midnight sun and towering icebergs. On board the well-appointed Ocean Endeavour, leave Ushuaia and civilisation behind and journey towards the hauntingly beautiful icy wilderness of the Antarctic Continent. Experience the thrill of witnessing seals lie on ice floes, whales breaching the frigid waters and penguins patrolling the rocky shoreline in vast numbers. Enjoy jaw-dropping views witnessed by seldom few as you explore ice-filled bays by Zodiac, landing on Antarctica itself for onshore excursions.
Highlights
- Enjoy daily Zodiac excursions to iconic landing sites, abundant with birdlife and busy penguins, and witness icebergs in a thousand different shades of blue.
- Experience almost endless daylight in high summer once you are inside the Antarctic Circle. Then, push further south than most Antarctic expeditions venture, exploring the remoteness of this less-visited part of the Antarctic Peninsula.
- Customise your trip with a wide range of optional activities on top of regular Zodiac excursions. Explore the water by kayak, sign up for a photography masterclass, rejuvenate with onboard yoga and massages or take a refreshing polar plunge.
- While most polar expeditions of this kind have a crew-to-passenger ratio of ten, fifteen or twenty to one, Intrepid expeditions on the Ocean Endeavour have an expedition crew member for every eight passengers for a greater personal touch.
- Our experienced leaders have made hundreds of polar voyages between them. They’re experts in marine biology, glaciology and Antarctic history, and they’ll share their knowledge throughout the journey during a comprehensive lecture program.
Trip Details
Product Code: 2051
Tour Type: Group Tour
Accommodation: Comfortable
Transport: Expedition cruise ship,zodiac
Guide Language: English
Tour Operator:
Intrepid Travel
Supplier Code: GQMCN
Starts: Ushuaia, Argentina, Antarctica
Finishes: Disembarkation in Ushuaia, Argentina, Antarctica
Duration: 14 days
Departures: Guaranteed
Physical Rating:
Light
Includes
Meals: Breakfasts (13), Lunch (11), Dinner (12)Accommodation: Comfortable Hotel (1 night),Expedition Cruise Ship (12 nights)
Price
Price per person: (Double Occupancy) CAD $16,530 ($1,181 /day)
Itinerary
Welcome to Ushuaia, the gateway to Antarctica, located at the southern tip of Argentina. These parts are known as Tierra del Fuego, often called ‘The End of the World’, but this is just the beginning of your Antarctic adventure. You’ll meet your fellow travellers at the hotel this afternoon, where a welcome briefing will take place. If you arrive early, there are plenty of ways to entertain yourself. Those with a day or two in hand may want to head to Tierra del Fuego National Park on a full day’s adventure, or if you've only got a few hours to kill then why not take a stroll around town and visit the waterfront overlooking the Beagle Channel, or get a taste of Argentina’s famous cuisine at a local restaurant.
Accommodation:
- Hotel (Number of Nights: 1)
Enjoy some free time to explore Ushuaia and the surrounding area before boarding the Ocean Endeavour this afternoon. Once settled, you’ll cast off and make your way through the Beagle Channel towards the infamous Drake Passage. Named after Charles Darwin’s historic ship The Beagle, the deep open water of the channel presents many great photo opportunities. Be sure to wave goodbye to South America if you're not too busy snapping away at the incredible landscapes – your next land sighting will be the Antarctic Peninsula and the South Shetland Islands.
Included Activities:
- Welcome Briefing
Accommodation:
- Ocean Endeavour (Number of Nights: 1)
The Drake Passage is one of the most famous bodies of water on the planet. It can be a little rough, but if weather conditions are good, you can head out on the outer decks for a chance to spot ocean dwellers like whales and dolphins, or perhaps seabirds including the spectacular wandering albatross, prions and petrels. Over the next two days, you'll get to know your expedition team experts as our comprehensive lecture program gets underway. Your polar experts will share their knowledge of the Antarctic region so you can gain a great understanding of its wildlife, history and geology and help prepare you for the adventure that lies ahead. Your expedition team are experts on the marine life that inhabit these parts and will help scout for sightings as you join them on the Ocean Endeavour's bridge and spacious outer decks. With favourable conditions, you are scheduled to arrive at the Antarctic Peninsula late on the evening of day four.
Included Activities:
- Citizen Science Program
- Onboard Lecture Program
- Daily Briefings and Recap
Optional Activities:
- Onboard Gym and Sauna - Free
- Photography Program (1299 USD)
- Onboard Spa treatments (various prices apply) starting from (95 USD)
- Yoga and Meditation Classes - Free
Accommodation:
- Ocean Endeavour (Number of Nights: 2)
It’s time to take your first steps on Antarctica, courtesy of a Zodiac cruise through the icy waters. There are several potential landing sites including Neko Harbour, Petermann Island and Port Lockroy, and while weather dictates which specific site you'll land at, each of them presents an opportunity to get up close with some truly incredible wildlife, watch penguins waddle and seals slide as icebergs and glaciers crackle and crumble.
If you have any questions, look to your expedition team to inspire and educate you about this fascinating part of the world. A range of adventure options are available if you’re feeling active, including snowshoeing, kayaking and day paddling You'll also have an opportunity to take a polar plunge off the Ocean Endeavour. There’s nothing quite like a quick dip in the Antarctic’s icy depths to wake you up!
Antarctica will enchant you with its incredible scenery, from imposing glaciers to towering snow-capped peaks, vast icebergs, and ice strewn channels. Not to mention the wildlife – from extensive colonies of chinstrap, gentoo and Adelie penguins, to crabeater, Weddell, fur and elephant seals and a plethora of fascinating birds. When you are on board the Ocean Endeavour, the expedition team will keep the education going with a range of wildlife and history presentations and documentary screenings, or you can make the most of the onboard wellness facilities including a spa, saltwater pool, sauna and gym, or perhaps join a yoga class with the incredible backdrop of Antarctica!
An average day on board begins with a wake-up call from your Expedition leader around 7 am, 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.
Included Activities:
- Zodiac Excursion/Cruising
- Guided walking Excursions
- Daily Briefings and Recap
- Citizen Science Program
- Onboard Lecture Program
Optional Activities:
- Stand Up Paddleboarding (299 USD)
- Day Paddle (299 USD)
- Polar Plunge - Free
- Kayaking Program (1299 USD)
- Photography Program (1299 USD)
- Onboard Spa treatments (various prices apply) starting from (95 USD)
- Yoga and Meditation Classes - Free
- Onboard Gym and Sauna - Free
Accommodation:
- Ocean Endeavour (Number of Nights: 4)
Venturing to the ends of the earth is a moment to revel in, as not all expeditions venture this far south. Weather conditions permitting, celebrations will be in order after reaching latitude 66°33’S and crossing the fabled Antarctic Circle. Toast to the sheer rawness of the surroundings and take it all in – while not a typical landing, the crossing of the Antarctic Circle leaves a lasting memory. Travel past colossal, often beautifully sculpted icebergs, to a point on earth only a few intrepid travellers have sailed. Home to Weddell seals that are specially adapted to this icy environment, they use their canines and incisors to rasp open new ice and maintain holes in the ice through which to breathe. They also have extremely accurate powers of navigation, enabling them to seek out breathing holes when their teeth are worn down and they are no longer able to maintain or create breathing holes in the ice.
Included Activities:
- Daily Briefings and Recap
- Citizen Science Program
- Onboard Lecture Program
- Guided walking Excursions
- Zodiac Excursion/Cruising
Optional Activities:
- Photography Program (1299 USD)
- Onboard Spa treatments (various prices apply) starting from (95 USD)
- Yoga and Meditation Classes - Free
- Onboard Gym and Sauna - Free
- Day Paddle (299 USD)
- Stand Up Paddleboarding (299 USD)
- Kayaking Program (1299 USD)
Accommodation:
- Ocean Endeavour (Number of Nights: 2)
You’ll be more familiar with the Antarctic waters as the Ocean Endeavour begins heading north. Test your newfound knowledge of penguin species, and finetune your wildlife spotting skills as you differentiate between fur, leopard and Weddell seals. Zodiac excursions will continue, and your expedition guides will be on hand on the journey north to Ushuaia to ensure you make the most of the peninsula’s wildlife opportunities and capture the perfect photographs.
Included Activities:
- Daily Briefings and Recap
- Onboard Lecture Program
- Citizen Science Program
- Guided walking Excursions
- Zodiac Excursion/Cruising
Optional Activities:
- Yoga and Meditation Classes - Free
- Onboard Spa treatments (various prices apply) starting from (95 USD)
- Onboard Gym and Sauna - Free
- Photography Program (1299 USD)
- Kayaking Program (1299 USD)
Accommodation:
- Ocean Endeavour (Number of Nights: 1)
The journey’s final leg offers an opportunity to reflect on the spectacular scenery and prolific wildlife encountered throughout the voyage. Spend some time with your fellow passengers, who you’ve no doubt bonded with, and enjoy a final celebration together to toast the end of this Antarctic adventure.
Included Activities:
- Daily Briefings and Recap
- Citizen Science Program
- Onboard Lecture Program
Optional Activities:
- Photography Program (1299 USD)
- Onboard Gym and Sauna - Free
- Yoga and Meditation Classes - Free
- Onboard Spa treatments (various prices apply) starting from (95 USD)
Accommodation:
- Ocean Endeavour (Number of Nights: 2)
Disembark in Ushuaia after enjoying your final breakfast on the Ocean Endeavour. You have an included morning transfer to Ushuaia airport if you're flying home today, otherwise enjoy some extra time exploring Tierra del Fuego and its rugged surroundings.
Similar Tours
Tour Operator
Intrepid Travel
Intrepid Travel is a global adventure travel company, dedicated to providing sustainable, experience-rich travel opportunities. They’ve been the leader in ethical, small-group travel since 1989 - taking people around the world for more than 30 years. They’re the world’s largest travel B Corporation - dedicated to being the best travel company for the world. In 2002, they established The Intrepid Foundation so their travellers could make a lasting impact on the communities they had visited. Although Intrepid Travel absorbs all administrative costs of The Intrepid Foundation, they are separate legal entities, allowing The Intrepid Foundation to grow independently. Intrepid Travel is made up of a collection of tour operator brands and 28 destination management companies all united by one vision: To change the way we all see the world.
In Business Since 1989
Reviews
Tejdeep - Traveled, February 2024
I had such a great experience going to Antarctic circle and peninsula. Activities are well organized and staff is knowledgeable and educated me about Antarctica ecosystem and wildlife
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 02/16/2024
Paul - Traveled, February 2024
Thoroughly enjoyed the Antarctica experience with Intrepid. Saw and did many unique things in the 12 days. Highly recommended as a bucket list item. Thanks.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 02/16/2024
Norman - Traveled, February 2024
Fantastic Antarctic voyage. Made it to below the Antarctic Circle. I did the sea kayaking add on which put me in proximity with orcas and humpback whales. Very well run. Good food on the boat and numerous informative lectures. Highly recommend!
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 02/17/2024
Diane - Traveled, February 2024
This expedition entitled Journey to the Antarctic Circle is a unique opportunity to appreciate and understand how all life on this beloved Earth is interwoven and interconnected. I fell in love with this sublime continent. Oftentimes there were no words to express what I was feeling. One wow moment after another. It will stay with me
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 02/17/2024
Suzanne - Traveled, February 2024
Best trip ever!
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 02/16/2024
Claire - Traveled, February 2024
What a trip on the Ocean Endeavour with Intrepid! This has been a dream of mine for years to go to Antarctica and to Antarctic Circle , I don't think it could have gone any better from the amazingly beautiful Antarctic to the amazing intrepid guides , crew and all staff 10 out of 10 from me . Would highly recommend this trip to anyone wanting to go to Antarctica. I have truly loved every minute and will never forget it !
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 02/16/2024
David E - Traveled, February 2024
Intrepid's Antarctic Expedition was an amazing experience. All the views and amenities of a cruise, but with the added adventure of zodiac tours of Antarctic waters, hikes on land, kayaking with icebergs and wildlife, and the ability to observe penguins, seals, birds and other wildlife in their natural habitat. We had a truly unique experience and highly recommend their expeditions.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 02/16/2024
Yilin - Traveled, February 2024
It's an amazing journey,I have learnt a lot of knowledge about Antarctic and marine creature. I hope another trip with Intrepid.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 02/16/2024
Tracy - Traveled, February 2024
This was a voyage like no other there are no words to describe the beauty of the Antarctica and its wildlife. To see this continent travelling on the Ocean Endeavour and hosted by a very knowledgeable team of Intrepid guides was outstanding!!
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 02/16/2024
Douglas - Traveled, February 2024
Just do it. So much more than you could imagine. It's another world
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 02/16/2024
Gregory - Traveled, February 2024
It was an excellent trip with superb organization and logistics. The staff and guides were all friendly and helpful. The educational presentations were very informative. The daily opportunities for kayaking and short land excursions made it particularly enjoyable for me.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 02/16/2024
Christopher - Traveled, February 2024
An incredible trip to an incredible place that far exceeded my expectations!
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 02/16/2024
Robert - Traveled, February 2024
Great experience. Intrepid staff are very knowledgeable and professional
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 02/16/2024
Helen - Traveled, February 2024
What and amazing journey! The intrepid crew make everything over the top to make this incredible voyage to Antarctica even more incredible. The details that we experienced every day, from the morning gretting till the late bar drinks. The expeditions where way more I expected, always with a smile from the crew and the staff.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 02/16/2024
Constance - Traveled, February 2024
Antarctica surpasses my expectations and the Intrepid expedition team made every excursion, on land or on the water, educational and safe, for us and the birds and animals. Don't hesitate, go!
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 02/16/2024
Victoria - Traveled, December 2022
There are no words to describe this trip and Antarctica itself. All I can say is DO IT!!!
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 04/17/2023
Tamara - Traveled, December 2022
my trip to Antarctica was so inspiring, a massive learning curve and difficult to articulate - I will be processing what I saw, learnt and experienced for many months to come.....thanks so much, Tamara
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 04/17/2023
karen - Traveled, December 2022
The trip surpassed all expectations, I thoroughly enjoyed everything about it. We were lucky with the weather, but I know the expedition team would have made the best of it, had it not been so good.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 04/17/2023
Scott - Traveled, December 2022
Antarctica is life-changing, and Intrepid have made my trip down perfect. A dedicated team made sure our time was safe, amazing and environmentally conscious. I will be back, and it will be with Intrepid.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 04/17/2023
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