Antarctic Express: Cruise South, Fly North | Ocean Explorer
10 Days
Save Up To 15%
WAS From NZD 35,095 Now From NZD 30,006
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.
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: 60.3 ft (18.4 m)Max
Draft: Cruising
Speed:
Electricity: 220V (European) & USB-A ports in night lights 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. | NZD 53,695Unavailable Enquire Now
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 | Studio SingleFeatures:- Designed for one. These cabins are located on Deck 3 and approximately 166 sq. ft. (15,4 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. | NZD 43,395Unavailable Enquire Now
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 | Deluxe Veranda ForwardFeatures:- Located on Deck 4 and approximately 182 sq. f. (16.9 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. | NZD 32,992Unavailable 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. | NZD 46,795Unavailable Enquire Now
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 | Penthouse 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. | NZD 50,295Unavailable Enquire Now
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 | Junior SuiteFeatures:- Located on Deck 6 and approximately 298 sq. f. (27.7 sq. m,) in size. These 2-room suites have one double bed that can be configured into two singles in the inner bedroom and an outer sitting room furnished with a sofa-bed, and activity table for two. From the bedroom there a floor to ceiling glass view that opens to a double sized walkout balcony. There are also 2 TV's, state of the art 'infotainment' system and private bathroom with bathtub, vanity and heated floor. | NZD 43,395Unavailable Enquire Now
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 | Veranda SuiteFeatures:- Located throughout the ship and approximately 205 sq. ft. (19.2 sq. m,) in size, these cabins have one double bed that can be configured into two singles, and seperate sitting area furnished with a sofa-bed. 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. | NZD 36,795Unavailable Enquire Now
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 | Veranda StateroomFeatures:- Located throughout the ship and approximately 208 sq. f. (19.3 sq. m,) in size, these cabins have one double bed that can be configured into two singles, and seperate sitting area furnished with two club chairs and a reading table. 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. Note: 611 and 612 do not have the club chairs and a reading table. | NZD 34,695Unavailable Enquire Now
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| 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. | 15 % off NZD 51,095 NZD 43,686Unavailable Enquire Now
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| Studio SingleFeatures:- Designed for one. These cabins are located on Deck 3 and approximately 166 sq. ft. (15,4 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. | 15 % off NZD 41,295 NZD 35,307Unavailable Enquire Now
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| Deluxe Veranda ForwardFeatures:- Located on Deck 4 and approximately 182 sq. f. (16.9 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. | 15 % off NZD 31,395 NZD 26,842Unavailable Enquire Now
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| Junior SuiteFeatures:- Located on Deck 6 and approximately 298 sq. f. (27.7 sq. m,) in size. These 2-room suites have one double bed that can be configured into two singles in the inner bedroom and an outer sitting room furnished with a sofa-bed, and activity table for two. From the bedroom there a floor to ceiling glass view that opens to a double sized walkout balcony. There are also 2 TV's, state of the art 'infotainment' system and private bathroom with bathtub, vanity and heated floor. | 15 % off NZD 41,295 NZD 35,307Unavailable 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. | 15 % off NZD 44,495 NZD 38,043Unavailable Enquire Now
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| Penthouse 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. | 15 % off NZD 47,795 NZD 40,864Available Enquire Now
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| Veranda SuiteFeatures:- Located throughout the ship and approximately 205 sq. ft. (19.2 sq. m,) in size, these cabins have one double bed that can be configured into two singles, and seperate sitting area furnished with a sofa-bed. 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. | 15 % off NZD 35,095 NZD 30,006Available Enquire Now
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| Veranda StateroomFeatures:- Located throughout the ship and approximately 208 sq. f. (19.3 sq. m,) in size, these cabins have one double bed that can be configured into two singles, and seperate sitting area furnished with two club chairs and a reading table. 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. Note: 611 and 612 do not have the club chairs and a reading table. | 15 % off NZD 32,995 NZD 28,210Unavailable Enquire Now
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EXTEND YOUR TRIP
Important Information
** Current Discounts, promotions and pricing are available until 02 December 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.
NOTE: Pricing is subject to change, currency fluctuation and availability at the time of booking and may be varied without notice by us or any of the operators and partners we work with. It is only confirmed and guaranteed at the time of making a booking, agreeing to our terms and conditions and paying a deposit.
Itinerary is subject to change depending on weather and ice conditions. Contact us for more details
INCLUSIONS
Shipboard accommodation
All meals & snacks on board throughout your voyage
Beer, standard wines & spirits, & cocktails during pre-dinner bar service, dinner & evenings
Coffee, tea and cocoa available around the clock
All shore landings per the daily program, weather permitting
Presentations by expedition team & special guests.
Downloadable photographic journal documenting the expedition
Expedition boots on loan for shore landings
An expedition parka to keep
Hairdryer and bathrobe available in every cabin
All miscellaneous service taxes and port charges throughout the program
Luggage handling aboard the ship
Emergency Evacuation Insurance for all passengers to a maximum benefit of US$500,000 per person
Group transfer in Ushuaia from the airport to the pre-expedition hotel on Day 1 of the itinerary
One night pre-expedition hotel accommodation in Ushuaia with breakfast
Briefing dinner on arrival day
Group transfer from hotel to port in Ushuaia pre-expedition
Flight from King George Island as specified in the itinerary
Group transfer from airport in Punta Arenas to hotel post-expedition
One night post-expedition hotel accommodation in Punta Arenas with breakfast
Free WiFiEXCLUSIONS
Any airfare unless otherwise specified in the itinerary
Passport and visa expenses
Government arrival and departure taxes
Any meals ashore unless otherwise specified
Travel insurance
Excess baggage charges
Laundry, bar, beverage and other personal charges unless specified
Mandatory waterproof pants for Zodiac cruising, or any other gear not mentioned
Telecommunications charges
Voluntary staff and crew gratuities
Transfer from hotel to airport at the end of the expedition
Note: Baggage allowance on charter flight is 33 lbs (15 kg) checked and 11 lbs (5 kg) carry-on.
- 2 (light adventure)
Available upon request, a supplement surcharge applies and is subject to availability. Please contact us for more information.
Departure date, fuel surcharges, cabin category, currency fluctuations, seasonality and availability.