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
Penguins
Spot penguins from your zodiac or hiking in Antarctica. Common species on the peninsula are the Gentoo, Chinstrap and Adelie penguins.
Daily excursions
When conditions allow, passengers will receive two excursions per day.
Expert Guides
On the Ocean Endeavour, our guides are truly the captains of the guests' experience down in Antarctica.
We have several onboard experts, including a marine biologist, a geologist, glaciologist, even a penguin-ologist! They share their passions during the presentations and educational program that we have on board the ship.
Set sail aboard the comfortable and spacious polar expedition vessel, the Ocean Endeavour, to give you the best of the stunning South Shetland Islands and Antarctic Peninsula in 11 days. Embark in Ushuaia at the southern tip of South America and conquer the famed Drake Passage to bring you to the spectacular frozen wilderness of the South Shetland Islands and the Antarctic Peninsula.
Explore the natural environment and closeup encounters with wildlife on our forward-facing zodiacs and on foot. For the adventurous, take a kayak and drift among the sea ice and sculptured icebergs, spend a night on the 7th continent under the stars or snowshoe in the footsteps of past explorers. Walk among enormous penguin rookeries, encounter basking seals and their playful pups and search for humpback, minke and orca whales. Onboard, enjoy talks on regional history, zoology and geology by experts. Pamper yourself with one of our spa treatments or simply relax with a yoga class. A voyage like this will leave you with memories to last a lifetime.
Ushuaia is the most southerly city in the world and the capital of Tierra del Fuego (Land of Fire). It has a dramatic setting, surrounded by mountains to the north and the Beagle Channel to the south, making it a spectacular departure point for your Antarctic adventure.
On arrival at Ushuaia Airport, please make your way through to the Arrivals Hall where our representative will be waiting for you to transfer you to your hotel. He/she will be holding a sign with the ship name on it. Should you not be able to locate them, please refer to the front of your itinerary for emergency contact details of our representative office.
Your cruise itinerary begins with an overnight stay in Ushuaia. If you arrive into Ushuaia early enough, the day is yours to explore. Avenida San Martin and the surrounding streets are where most hotels, shops, restaurants, cafes and tourist services are located.
The Museo Marítimo y del Presidio de Ushuaia (Maritime & the Prison of Ushuaia Museum) is well worth a visit. Located in the former prison of Ushuaia, the prison buildings now house four museums - the Maritime Museum, the Prison Museum, the Antarctic Museum and the Marine Museum of Art. The buildings date back to 1906 when convicts were transferred from Isla de los Estados to Ushuaia to build this national prison. Construction was completed in 1920 and the cells that were designed for 380 inmates, held up to 800 prisoners before closing in 1947.
Tierra del Fuego National Park is a short bus ride from Ushuaia and was the first shoreline national park established in Argentina. It is a rugged, mountainous park with great views of Lapataia Bay and dramatic scenery of waterfalls, mountains, glaciers and lakes. There are many hiking trails within the park including the Coastal Path (Senda Costera) that connects Ensenada Bay to Lapataia Bay on Lago Roca. The park is home to many species of animal including the guanaco, Andean fox, North American beaver, European rabbit and muskrat. There are also many species of birds including the torrent duck, kelp goose, austral parakeet, Andean condor and the Magellanic oystercatcher.
The Fin del Mundo Train (End of the World Train) is a steam train that runs from Ushuaia to Tierra del Fuego National Park, providing an alternative way to get to the park.
This morning is free for you to explore Ushuaia, giving you time to wander the streets of this quaint port town, or discover Tierra del Fuego National Park.
Transfer to the pier of Ushuaia for embarkation in the late afternoon. You will be welcomed on board the Ocean Endeavour by the Expedition Team and the Ship’s Officers.
This evening we set sail through the Beagle Channel that was named after the British ship the HMS Beagle. This famous channel transects the Tierra del Fuego archipelago in the extreme south of South America, and is rich in wildlife. Keep a look out for Magellanic penguins, rock cormorants, petrels and black-browed albatross from the deck as well as sea lion colonies.
Enjoy your first taste of life at sea and a welcome dinner. The air is likely to be filled with anticipation, as your next view of land will be of Antarctica - the White Continent.
As we leave the Beagle Channel, prepare yourself for potentially rough seas as we enter the legendary Drake Passage. This infamous and unpredictable channel of water separates the southernmost tip of South America from the tip of the Antarctic Peninsula. It was named after the English explorer, Sir Frances Drake.
As we head southwards, there is time to get to know your shipmates and get an insight into the excitement ahead with presentations from the Expedition Team on everything Antarctic - from the history and geology to the incredible wildlife.
We will notice a drop in temperature as we cross the Antarctic Convergence and enter the waters of the Antarctic Ocean. At the Antarctic Convergence, the colder polar waters flowing north meet the warmer equatorial waters flowing south. This mixing pushes nutrient rich waters to the surface, attracting a variety of seabirds, whales and other species. Look out through the panoramic observation windows or brave the elements outside on deck as you keep your eyes peeled for albatrosses flying overhead, icebergs and maybe even breaching whales.
Leaving the Antarctic Convergence in our wake, we continue south towards Antarctica, maybe making landfall by early evening on Day 4, if conditions are favourable. The first sighting of land always brings great excitement, and is often embraced as the true beginning of any Antarctic expedition.
For the next four days we explore the South Shetland Islands and Antarctic Peninsula that is famed for its majestic mountains, glaciers, imposing icebergs, ice-strewn waters and abundance of wildlife. The scenery, wildlife and serene silence of Antarctica will enchant and enthral and you will soon realise why this region has captivated the attention of explorers and travellers for centuries.
Your days on the Antarctic Peninsula will form the core of your adventure. Every day will be different as we cruise by Zodiac amongst the beautifully sculpted icebergs and take Zodiac excursions from the ship to explore local bays, channels and landing sites. Unpredictable weather and ice conditions mean that the itinerary will be flexible, but will make the most of wildlife sightings, as we aim to explore penguin rookeries, seal and bird colonies, whale feeding areas as well as visiting sites of historic and scientific interest and climbing to vantage points for panoramic views. There is always something new or unexpected to see, with opportunities for kayaking, snowshoeing and photography with an expert, which means that your expedition will be a unique and personal experience and unlike any other. Enjoy the antics of thousands of curious penguins as you sit on a pebbled beach, scout for whales and seals as you cruise by Zodiac, visit a research base, listen out for the mighty crack of a calving glacier and maybe brave a polar plunge in the icy waters!
As we cruise through the Peninsula, the lecture programme continues and sightseeing is at its most spectacular off the ship’s outer decks. Enjoy the Ocean Endeavour’s newly designed health and fitness features, with facilities that include a spa, His and Hers saunas, saltwater pool and gym plus yoga sessions.
We hope to make one final excursion or shore landing today before we leave the Antarctic Peninsula behind, and head back across the Drake Passage. This is another great opportunity to look out for wildlife from the deck of the ship, as you identify seabirds and maybe whales with the help of your Expedition Team. Gain more insight into the region by attending final lectures and presentations by the polar experts and take time to relax and reminisce about your Antarctic experiences.
By the evening we hope to be back in the tranquil waters of the Beagle Channel, ensuring a restful nights sleep on board.
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.
In just under two weeks you will experience the highlights of the northern Antarctic region: the South Shetland Islands and Antarctic Peninsula.
You will visit sections of the Antarctic Peninsula with remarkable views of the towering peaks of the Antarctic continent and a wide range of wildlife.
While at sea, you can enjoy the amenities of the Ocean Endeavour. There is also a lecture program which will educate you about the unique flora and fauna of this part of the world, as well as the legendary tales about early explorers.
The itinerary allows possibilities for unforgettable activities such as Zodiac excursions, guided hikes on shore, visits to wildlife colonies, kayaking, camping and the exploration of historic huts and science stations.
You will learn about the Peninsula's remarkable history and will encounter gentoo, chinstrap and Adélie penguin rookeries; Weddell, crab-eater and leopard seals; as well as orca, humpback and minke whales in the Antarctic waters.
Your experiences through the Ocean Endeavour's in-depth expedition program are 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. The Ocean Endeavour is designed for 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.
WHY WE LOVE THE OCEAN ENDEAVOUR
The ship carries 20 zodiacs for exploration, ideal for offering additional activities such as sea kayaking, snowshoeing, ice camping and hiking plus a unique photography program
With an 8:1 passenger to expedition crew ratio, one of the highest in the industry, we ensure our guests have an immersive experience
We have increased our number of solo-use cabins with no single supplements, making solo travel to Antarctica more accessible
FEATURES OF THE OCEAN ENDEAVOUR
A wealth of activities
Yoga, kayaking, day paddle, stand-up paddleboarding, zodiac excursions and cruises, our exclusive photography program, in partnership with Sony, and camping are just some of the amazing activities you can enjoy on the Ocean Endeavour.
All departures are carbon offset
We quantify our carbon usage and then purchase carbon credits from various projects to offset our impact. We’ve also implemented a range of responsible travel initiatives, detailed in the Ocean Endeavour brochure (linked above).
We assist with scientific research on each voyage
During every Antarctic voyage, you can participate in our citizen science programs. We also provide berths to renowned scientists and researchers, providing space for them to conduct vital research. Each journey is also complemented by scientific lectures by the expedition team.
Spacious and welcoming onboard environment
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, plus an onboard spa and complimentary yoga classes.
Spacious outdoor viewing
The Ocean Endeavour’s aft deck is ideal for wildlife watching and citizen science programs, either with a morning cup of coffee or your camera in hand. You’ll often spot sea birds, whales, or icebergs as you cruise through Antarctic waters.
Comfortable cabins to suit every traveller
Our 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.
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 >
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.
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!
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.
Approximately 220 to 230 sq.ft. (20 to 21.5 sq.m.), our Triple Interior on Deck 4 is an interior cabin with three lower berths and one or two private bathrooms.
Our Twins & Doubles on Deck 7 & 8 are approximately 141 sq.ft. (13 sq.m), feature one or two windows, two lower berths or a double bed and a private bathroom.
Approximately 155 to 174 sq.ft. (14 to 16 sq.m.), our Singles are WING cabins located on Deck 8 feature two windows, a double bed and a private bathroom.
Approximately 228 sq.ft (21 sq.m), a Comfort Twin on Deck 4 features two portholes, two single berths, a separate sitting area with a pull out sofa bed and a private bathroom.
Approximately 214 sq.ft. (20 sq.m), a Select Twin on Deck 5 features two single berths, a separate sitting area with a pull out sofa bed, two windows, and one or two private bathrooms.
Twin: Approximately 225 sq.ft. (21 sq.m.), a Superior Twin on Deck 5 features two lower berths, a separate sitting area with a pull out sofa bed, a large window, and a private bathroom.
Double: Approximately 165 to 200 sq.ft. / 15 to 19 sq.m, a Superior Double on Deck 7 features one double bed, a sofa, a large window, and a private bathroom.
Approximately 305 sq.ft./ 28 sq.m, the Owner's Suite on Deck 7 features two large bow-facing windows, one double bed, a separate sitting room and a private bathroom with a tub.
Approximately 220 to 230 sq.ft. (20 to 21.5 sq.m.), our Triple Interior on Deck 4 is an interior cabin with three lower berths and one or two private bathrooms.
Our Twins & Doubles on Deck 7 & 8 are approximately 141 sq.ft. (13 sq.m), feature one or two windows, two lower berths or a double bed and a private bathroom.
Approximately 155 to 174 sq.ft. (14 to 16 sq.m.), our Singles are WING cabins located on Deck 8 feature two windows, a double bed and a private bathroom.
Approximately 228 sq.ft (21 sq.m), a Comfort Twin on Deck 4 features two portholes, two single berths, a separate sitting area with a pull out sofa bed and a private bathroom.
Approximately 214 sq.ft. (20 sq.m), a Select Twin on Deck 5 features two single berths, a separate sitting area with a pull out sofa bed, two windows, and one or two private bathrooms.
Twin: Approximately 225 sq.ft. (21 sq.m.), a Superior Twin on Deck 5 features two lower berths, a separate sitting area with a pull out sofa bed, a large window, and a private bathroom.
Double: Approximately 165 to 200 sq.ft. / 15 to 19 sq.m, a Superior Double on Deck 7 features one double bed, a sofa, a large window, and a private bathroom.
Approximately 305 sq.ft./ 28 sq.m, the Owner's Suite on Deck 7 features two large bow-facing windows, one double bed, a separate sitting room and a private bathroom with a tub.
Approximately 220 to 230 sq.ft. (20 to 21.5 sq.m.), our Triple Interior on Deck 4 is an interior cabin with three lower berths and one or two private bathrooms.
Our Twins & Doubles on Deck 7 & 8 are approximately 141 sq.ft. (13 sq.m), feature one or two windows, two lower berths or a double bed and a private bathroom.
Approximately 155 to 174 sq.ft. (14 to 16 sq.m.), our Singles are WING cabins located on Deck 8 feature two windows, a double bed and a private bathroom.
Approximately 228 sq.ft (21 sq.m), a Comfort Twin on Deck 4 features two portholes, two single berths, a separate sitting area with a pull out sofa bed and a private bathroom.
Approximately 214 sq.ft. (20 sq.m), a Select Twin on Deck 5 features two single berths, a separate sitting area with a pull out sofa bed, two windows, and one or two private bathrooms.
Twin: Approximately 225 sq.ft. (21 sq.m.), a Superior Twin on Deck 5 features two lower berths, a separate sitting area with a pull out sofa bed, a large window, and a private bathroom.
Double: Approximately 165 to 200 sq.ft. / 15 to 19 sq.m, a Superior Double on Deck 7 features one double bed, a sofa, a large window, and a private bathroom.
Approximately 305 sq.ft./ 28 sq.m, the Owner's Suite on Deck 7 features two large bow-facing windows, one double bed, a separate sitting room and a private bathroom with a tub.
*Booking Bonus - Save up to 30% Off Selected 24/25 Departures
Valid on selected departures in the 24/25 Antarctic season 26 January 25 Departure Only: 20% discount will apply on Cat 1-7 cabins and a 30% discount will apply on Cat 8-10 cabins LIMITED AVAILABILITY - ALL REMAINING CABIN CATEGORIES FOR ALL DEPARTURES Discount is valid until 05 December 24 unless withdrawn, sold out or varied prior Not combinable with other promotions and valid on new bookings only.
Please Contact Us for the latest availability, pricing and details of your preferred voyage. Chimu Adventures are Antarctica Experts and we will endeavour to find you the perfect Antarctica expedition cruise to ensure you have an unforgettable adventure!
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.
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
From Price is based on a Cat 4 Exterior Twin Porthole Cabin
Valid for 26 January 2025 Departure Only
LIMITED AVAILABILITY - ALL REMAINING CABIN CATEGORIES FOR ALL DEPARTURES
See 'Pricing & Dates' tab for detailed departures, pricing and availability (Availability last updated 12 Nov 24)
Available until 05 Dec 24 unless sold out/withdrawn prior
Please Contact Us for the latest availability, pricing and details of your preferred voyage. Chimu Adventures are Antarctica Experts and we will endeavour to find you the perfect Antarctica expedition cruise to ensure you have an unforgettable adventure!
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.
Destination
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