Antarctic Express: Cruise South, Fly North | Ocean Explorer
10 Days
Save Up To 28%
WAS From USD 17,895 Now From USD 12,884
STYLE: Small Ship Expedition Cruise
Trip Code: ACQECSFO
DIFFICULTY RATING: 2 (light adventure)
Start: Ushuaia, Argentina
Finish: Punta Arenas, Chile
SHIP: Ocean Explorer
Destination
Antarctica
Meals
Breakfast at hotel. All meals & snacks on board. Beer, standard wines & spirits, & cocktails during pre-dinner bar service, dinner & evenings
Transport
Group transfers throughout & charter flight King George Island to Punta Arenas
Accommodation
Hotel & Cabin on board ship
DEPARTURE DATES
Enquire Now
Included 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
Zodiac Cruising
Cruise by Zodiacs amongst the beautifully sculpted icebergs and take excursions from the ship to explore local bays, channels and landing sites
Sea Kayaking
Paddle through the majesty of the icebergs with your guide and live the experience of seeing varied birds, seals and whales in their natural habitat.
Whale watching
Penguins
Spot penguins from your zodiac or hiking in Antarctica. Common species on the peninsula are the Gentoo, Chinstrap and Adelie penguins.
OVERVIEW
Savor the thrill of traveling through the renowned Drake Passage after departing from Ushuaia, and end your journey conveniently with a flight back north. You might encounter Adélie penguins floating on ice floes or minke and humpback whales as you go to the Antarctic Peninsula's northernmost tip. At first, the eerie quiet of this immense wilderness may be overwhelming, but your adventurous travelling partners and the playful, captivating fauna will keep you grounded. You'll gain a fresh perspective on Antarctica's striking contrasts, which include stark, desolate icescapes and teeming populations of gregarious penguins, as well as rough, craggy mountain peaks and delicate ecosystems.
*Current Discounts, promotions and pricing are available until 31 Mar 2024, however discounts may be withdrawn or changed at any time and are subject to availability on selected cabins and departure dates. Some current in market offers may be combinable and Shackleton Club Past Passenger and multi trip discounts may be applied subject to confirmation at the time of booking. Prices are subject to change based on currency fluctuations, fuel surcharges, and other external factors. No discount applies to any transfer packages, additional activities or pre/post services. The advertised prices may also include a 'Pay in full at time of booking' which is a 5-10% early payment discount, which requires the full balance to be paid at the time of booking to apply. Further conditions may apply, contact us for more information.
ITINERARY
Your adventure begins in Ushuaia, Argentina. This quaint city at the southernmost tip of South America is your gateway to Antarctica. The city itself provides a wide range of jewelry shops, cafes, gear shops and restaurants to explore before your voyage. Outside the city, snowcapped mountains and hiking in Tierra del Fuego National Park offer ample adventure activities to explore nature.
You will embark in the afternoon, with a journey through the picturesque Beagle Channel. Be sure to keep your eyes peeled while you're out on deck as the channel is home to a wide variety of wildlife including seabirds and seals.
Rainbows are common here too, creating a great photography opportunity to kick off the start of your Antarctic adventure.
Legendary for its high winds and rolling seas, you may get lucky and have surprisingly calm seas through the Drake Passage. Spend your time in the lounge or chatting with your fellow travelers.
As you develop your sea legs during the crossing, our Expedition Team will begin their series of presentations to help prepare you for your upcoming Zodiac and land excursions. You officially enter Antarctica when your ship crosses the Antarctic Convergence, a biological boundary that fluctuates around 60° south.
The most common reaction upon reaching the 7th Continent is a sense of reverence and awe. The experience is beyond words, since few places are as untouched as Antarctica. You will begin to appreciate why this region has long captivated the attention of explorers and travelers alike. Every time we visit Antarctica, we witness something new or unexpected, which means that your expedition will be unlike any other— creating a unique, personal experience.
Each day, you will take Zodiac excursions from the ship to explore glaciated bays, channels and landing sites. Your Expedition Team will take care of you at each landing, whether you are hiking the Antarctic landscape, visiting a research station or observing chinstrap, Adelie and gentoo penguins, all of which can be found here. Keep an eye out for Weddell, fur, crabeater and leopard seals as well as curious whales, such as humpbacks, minkes, or perhaps orcas while on a Zodiac cruise. Each excursion will present a new array of creatures to fascinate you and keep your camera busy.
Amid the serene silence of Antarctica, noisy interludes become indelible memories, such as penguins squabbling over prized pebbles, or the boom and crack of a calving glacier.
Every day will be different, having been carefully crafted by your Expedition Team to inspire and educate you about this wonderful part of the world.
With only the Drake Passage ahead, you’ll disembark on King George Island before flying to Punta Arenas, Chile.
Once you’re in Punta Arenas, we’ll transfer you from the airport to your hotel, where you’re free to explore and enjoy a final dinner on your own, before your homeward journey.
After breakfast, you are free to continue on your own travels or make your way to the Punta Arenas airport for your homeward flights.
Please note: Cruise itinerary is subject to change depending on weather conditions, ice conditions and other factors.
WHY CHOOSE THIS CRUISE?
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Experience the brand new. purpose built expedition ship, the Ocean Explorer with state of the art amenities and sustainability features
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Return to South America in style and fly over the Drake Passage at the end of your voyage
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You will have the chance to see an array of wildlife including penguins, seals, birds, whales and more
Ocean Explorer
Utilising the best ships and expedition crew is necessary to venture further in the Polar Regions. We have both of them. In terms of elegance, adventure, and cutting-edge technology, Ocean Explorer is the ideal complement to our fleet. For our sophisticated polar explorers, Ocean Explorer enhances the polar experience on all fronts. The Ulstein X-Bow, the industry-leading X-Bow design, ensures that your clients will glide through even the roughest waves with ease. In any polar sea state, the ship's distinctive forward-sloping X-Bow reduces vibration, noise, and impact for a comfortable ride. The ship is equipped with the newest sustainability technologies, including fuel-efficient Rolls-Royce engines and the revolutionary MAGS gasification system, which turns garbage into energy and reduces the environmental effect of waste transportation. Equipped with a fleet of 15 Zodiacs and four distinct sea-level embarkation locations, Ocean Explorer provides a wide range of off-ship experiences, such as Zodiac cruising and kayaking, enabling your guests to experience a close-up encounter with the Antarctic and Arctic wilderness. Every interior feature on board, including the striking two-story forward lounge, the floor to ceiling glass retreat in the library, and the elegant fittings and furniture throughout the ship, has been meticulously chosen by designers to ensure that visitors have a wonderful experience. The roomy and opulent cabins guarantee your guests a peaceful stay free from noise pollution from nearby rooms, and nearly every cabin has an outdoor balcony. Two outdoor Jacuzzis and a dry sauna are available for your clients to relax in after a full day of activities off-ship.
Ice Class:
Length: 342 ft (104.4 m)
Breadth: Max
Draft: Cruising
Speed:
Electricity: Passenger
Capacity:138
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.
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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!
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Photography
For photography enthusiasts of any skill level. You will receive expert advice on taking and producing amazing photos of Antarctica.
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Hiking
Hiking excursions are among the most popular options in Antarctica as many itineraries are short and suitable for people of all ages and fitness levels. Guided hikes lead you to amazing vantage points and allow even closer interaction with local wildlife, so don’t forget to pack your camera!
Learn MorePricing per person
 | Owners SuiteFeatures:- This palatial, airy apartment offers stunning views from its large private veranda on the highest cabin level. The luxurious suite features a large master bedroom, living room and dining area and two large master bathrooms, among other amenities. | 28 % off USD 29,395 USD 21,164Available Enquire Now
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 | Studio SingleFeatures:- Designed for one. These cabins are located on Deck 3 and approximately 177 sq. ft. (16.5 sq. m,) in size, with one double bed and a porthole view. There is also a desk and chair, TV, state of the art 'infotainment' system and private bathroom with shower, vanity and heated floor.. | 28 % off USD 22,895 USD 16,484Unavailable Enquire Now
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 | Studio DoubleFeatures:- Enjoy the calm ambience of this stateroom which features a porthole window and every amenity essential for your polar voyage. | 28 % off USD 17,895 USD 12,884Available Enquire Now
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 | Deluxe Veranda Forward StateroomFeatures:- Enjoy privacy and elegance at the front of the ship where guests are treated to sweeping views from their private veranda. | 28 % off USD 19,995 USD 14,396Available Enquire Now
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 | Deluxe Veranda Middle StateroomFeatures:- These classic staterooms ensure guests have easy access to all amenities the ship has to offer. | 28 % off USD 20,995 USD 15,116Available Enquire Now
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 | Deluxe Veranda StateroomFeatures:- Revel in superior comfort of this stateroom on Deck 4 while taking in the panoramic ocean views from your private veranda. | 28 % off USD 21,595 USD 15,548Available Enquire Now
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 | Studio Veranda StateroomFeatures:- Located on Deck 6 and approximately 173 sq. f. (16.1 sq. m,) in size, these cabins have one double bed that can be configured into two singles. There is a floor to ceiling glass view that opens to a walkout balcony. There is also a desk and chair, TV, state of the art 'infotainment' system and private bathroom with shower, vanity and heated floor. | 28 % off USD 18,895 USD 13,604Available Enquire Now
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 | Grand Veranda StateroomFeatures:- Near the center of the ship on Deck 6, this stateroom offers easy access to the lounge, dining room and a private veranda. | 28 % off USD 22,895 USD 16,484Available Enquire Now
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 | Royal Veranda StateroomFeatures:- This spacious, classic stateroom allows you to stretch freely. Centrally located on Decks 4 and 6. | 28 % off USD 23,495 USD 16,916Available Enquire Now
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 | Studio Veranda SingleFeatures:- Designed for one. This unique cabin is located on Deck 7 and approximately 162 sq. f. (15.1 sq. m.). It has one twin bed with a floor to ceiling glass view that opens to a generous walkout balcony. There is also TV, state of the art 'infotainment' system and private bathroom with shower, vanity and heated floor. | 28 % off USD 24,195 USD 17,420Unavailable Enquire Now
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 | Explorer SuiteFeatures:- This unique 2-room suite is located on Deck 7 and is approximately 269 sq. f (25.0 sq. m.) in size. It has one double bed that can be configured into two singles in the inner bedroom.and the outer sitting area is furnished with a sofa-bed. Walk-out from either room to a double sized balcony . There are also 2 TV's, state of the art 'infotainment' system and private bathroom with shower, vanity and heated floor. And an additional powder room in the outside sitting area. | 28 % off USD 27,295 USD 19,652Available Enquire Now
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 | Junior SuiteFeatures:- The decor and layout of this stately suite will amaze. The private veranda, convenient Deck 6 location, plus proximity to the lounge and downstairs dining room are equally impressive. | 28 % off USD 26,295 USD 18,932Available Enquire Now
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