ocean endeavour epic antarctic cruise south georgia and antarctic circle

Epic Antarctica: Crossing the Circle via Falklands and South Georgia

  • Overview

    Explore Ushuaia before embarking on the cruise portion of your once in a lifetime adventure. In this diverse expedition, you’ll experience the spectacular flora and fauna of the Falkland Islands (Islas Malvinas) before immersing yourself in the unique history and exquisite, rare wildlife of South Georgia. Whether you’re visiting Antarctic research stations, witnessing a sudden minke whale breach from your Zodiac, sharing a magical moment with king penguins, or celebrating crossing the Antarctic Circle with like-minded travelers and crew, you’ll know this experience will live on in you forever.

    Duration: 23 days
    Passengers: 199 passengers
    Embarkation Point: Buenos Aires, Argentina
    Disembarkation Point: Buenos Aires, Argentina
    Physical rating: Soft Adventure
    Fly/Cruise: Mandatory extra flight
    Single Supplement: 1.7x - 2.0x twin rate or share options
  • Itinerary
    • Day 1 - Buenos Aires, Argentina

      You may arrive in Buenos Aires at any time during Day 1 of your itinerary. Upon arriving in this splendid city, known for its soaring architecture and rich European heritage, you will independently transfer to the group hotel (pre-night hotel included).

    • Day 2 - Ushuaia, Argentina, and Embarkation

      After breakfast at the hotel, the group will transfer to the airport and board our private charter flight to Ushuaia, Argentina.

      Upon arrival, you will have a little time to explore this quaint port town before heading to the pier.

      Embarkation will occur in the late afternoon, after which your vessel will sail down the historic Beagle Channel. This famous channel transects the Tierra del Fuego archipelago in the extreme south of South America. Expect an air of anticipation as you depart—the next time you’ll see land you’ll be in the world’s most southern continent!

    • Day 3 - At Sea

      There are many activities to keep you engaged while we’re at sea. You can take advantage of the library of books available on your ship, chat with your shipmates at the bar, or spend time out on deck, admiring the sea. Your Expedition Team will also conduct a series of presentations to familiarize yourself with how to prepare for Zodiac cruises and shore landings.

    • Day 4/5 - Falkland Islands (Islas Malvinas)

      The Falkland archipelago contains two main islands, East Falkland and West Falkland, which you will explore thanks to Zodiac excursions and daily landings. These rugged islands have a frontier feel to them. This is especially true of the largest settlement, Stanley, an interesting British outpost–type place, where you could just as easily wander into a pub as you could a church or museum.

      Have your camera handy, as your wildlife sightings in the Falklands (Malvinas) should include at least three species of penguins, plus two endemic bird species—Cobb’s wren and the Falkland’s flightless steamer duck.

      Your team of lecturers and specialists will be sure to educate you on the local flora and fauna so that you have the most memorable time.

    • Day 6/7 - At Sea

      En route to South Georgia, you’ll cross the Antarctic Convergence, an invisible biological boundary unique to Antarctica. This meeting of oceans is what creates the abundance of krill and marine life that attracts large cetaceans, such as humpback whales, to the area.

    • Day 8/11 - South Georgia

      Evidence of the old whaling and sealing heyday is still found throughout the island. You’ll be surprised to learn that whale and seal populations were once decimated here. Today, their populations are strong, with massive rookeries to be seen.

      One significant and historic site that will be of interest is the grave of the great explorer Sir Ernest Shackleton. Your visit to his gravesite at the Grytviken settlement, also home to an old whaling station and a research station, is a day for reflecting on what it must have been like to be one of the first explorers of this unforgiving yet beautiful environment.

      Although South Georgia’s history is an important attraction to the island, it is the wildlife that you and your shipmates will likely find most captivating. Often referred to as the Galapagos of the Poles, South Georgia contains an exceptional quantity of wildlife. Each landing you make on the island will open your eyes to a new wonder: one day you may see rookeries with hundreds of thousands of pairs of king penguins waddling on a beach; the next day you may visit another beach dotted with thousands of fur or elephant seals.

      The grasses, mountains and beaches of South Georgia all play an important role in the breeding and survival of different bird and animal species. Your Expedition Team will be happy to share its knowledge of how these vulnerable relationships all play out on the island.

    • Day 12/13 - At Sea

      Antarctica awaits, along with its own penguin and seal species. While you’re at sea, you can enjoy quiet time or take in presentations by your Expedition Team, who will cover everything from the history and geology of Antarctica to tips on identifying different species and what makes each of them unique.

    • Day 14/16 - South Shetland Islands and Antarctic Peninsula

      The experience is hard to put into words, but the most common reaction upon reaching the White Continent is a sense of reverence and awe. The experience is hard to put into words. You will discover that Antarctica is a land of extremes: at one moment you’ll be overcome with a feeling of complete silence and loneliness, and the next moment you’ll be laughing at the comical antics of a curious penguin.

      Glacier hikes, visits to research bases and, of course, communing with seals and penguins are sure to keep you smiling every day. Perhaps you’ll catch sight of the fearless penguin eater, the leopard seal, or maybe you’ll come eye to eye with a curious minke whale while you are cruising in a Zodiac. Each day and each landing will present a new collection of creatures to entertain you and keep your camera busy.

      If you find yourself wanting more, then perhaps you’ll treat yourself by booking our kayaking Adventure Option (reserve in advance when booking your trip); if you’re feeling a bit overwhelmed, a little shock therapy courtesy of a Polar Plunge might be what you need!

    • Day 17/18 - Antarctic Circle

      Crossing the Antarctic Circle is an impressive achievement, as most expeditions to the Antarctic Peninsula do not come close to reaching this far south.

      As you toast the first explorers who ventured here, you can raise a glass of champagne and take pride in knowing you’ve made it to a part of the world visited by very few people. This is raw Antarctica, home of the midnight sun, where there is the potential for fantastic iceberg sightings.

    • Day 19/20 - Northbound Along the Peninsula

      If you haven’t had your fill of Antarctic wildlife and icebergs by now, you’ll surely be satisfied by the time you return to the Drake Passage. You will continue to journey onto land by Zodiac twice daily as you travel north along the western Antarctic Peninsula.

      Your Expedition Team will always be on the lookout for species of penguins, seals and whales that may have eluded you on your journey south.

    • Day 21/22 - Crossing the Drake Passage

      After more than a dozen days of memorable wildlife encounters, your journey home begins. Crossing the Drake is your unofficial rite of passage, putting a final stamp of approval on your Antarctic adventure.

    • Day 23 - Disembark in Ushuaia and Fly to Buenos Aires

      You will arrive in Ushuaia in the morning, after breakfast.

      After disembarking, you will get a little taste of Patagonia, touring Tierra del Fuego National Park before transferring to the airport for the return group charter flight to Buenos Aires.

      CHARTER FLIGHT NOT INCLUDED IN THE BASE PRICE OF THE TRIP

      AUD$1,310 per person

      Buenos Aires Flight and Transfer Package includes:
      Pre expedition hotel night in BuenosAires, with breakfast
      Group transfer from the hotel to the airport in Buenos Aires
      Charter flight from Buenos Aires toUshuaia, and return
      Group transfer from Ushuaia airport to the ship, and return

    Please consider that our voyages are expeditionary in nature. This means, that there are no concrete itineraries, your Captain and Expedition Leader will utilise their vast experience to chart the best course for your expedition depending on the climatic and environmental conditions. Mentioned highlights and wildlife cannot be guaranteed.

  • Highlights & Activities

    Paddling Excursion

    Explore the ocean from a more intimate vantage point on a sit-on-top kayak. No experience is required to manoeuvre these very stable kayaks, allowing you to enjoy an unforgettable experience on the water, taking in breathtaking landscapes and wildlife. Whether it’s your first time in a kayak or you want greater flexibility to try other Adventure options, this shorter excursion is for you.

    Important: This activity provides 1 kayaking excursion only.

    USD$ 204 per person

    Stand-up Paddle boarding

    Stand-up paddleboarding will give you a very personal and unique perspective on Antarctica. Guided by experienced staff in small groups in good weather conditions on calm bays and harbours, reservations for 10 paddleboarders will be taken at time of booking

    USD$ 262 per person

    Kayaking

    Kayaking is probably one of the most intimate and inspiring ways you can explore the rugged coastlines and calm bays of the Polar regions.

    Kayaking in the Polar Regions is highly weather-dependent, however we guarantee at least one outing throughout your voyage, but your kayak guides will take you out as many times as possible throughout your voyage.

    USD$ 1,100 per person

    Wandering Albatross

    Spectacular in flight and on the ground, with the largest wingspan of any bird on the planet; gracefully and effortlessly glides for thousands of kilometres across the Southern Ocean to their nesting site on South Georgia.

    South Georgia; Wildlife Mecca

    Walk amidst tens of thousands of king penguins on a single beach. Hike in the footsteps of ‘the Boss’, Sir Ernest Shackleton and hear his tale of survival.

    The great Antarctic Safari

    No matter which itinerary you choose to undertake, you are destined to spot a wonderful array of wildlife, including sea elephants and sea lions, Weddell, crabeater and leopard seals, and Minke, killer and humpback whales and the magnificent wandering albatrosses.

  • Inclusions

    Expedition Gear

    Comfortable expedition boots and a high quality expedition parka, specifically designed for the polar regions.

    Transfers & Accommodation

    You arrival and departure transfers are included in your expedition, as is the first nights accommodation at the cruise hotel

    Inclusions / Exclusions

    Included in your Expedition

    - Comprehensive pre-departure information
    - Emergency evacuation insurance up to USD$100 000 per person
    - All services and port taxes
    - Photographic journal
    - Accommodation and all meals on board
    - Pre-cruise accommodation at the starting point of your itinerary
    - All shore excursions and lectures
    - Hot beverages

    Not included in your Expedition

  • Map
    Screen shot 2017 07 05 at 3.44.35 pm
  • Gallery
  • Vessel

    OCEAN ENDEAVOUR

    Ocean Endeavour is a comfortable, well-appointed small expedition ship expertly engineered to explore the Polar Regions. The ship has an ice-strengthened hull, Zodiacs for exploration and remote landings, and advanced navigation equipment. The newly-refurbished vessel offers a superb guest experience with an expansive choice of cabin categories, large cabins and common areas, a sundeck and observation area, plenty of deck space for polar landscape viewing, and lounges for learning and reflection. The ship’s interiors have a contemporary aesthetic that provides a bright and spacious feel throughout. Endeavour is also the only polar adventure ship in Antarctica focused on health and wellness , and offers a contemporary approach to cuisine and newly-designed health and fitness features. Facilities include a spa serviced by organic spa provider VOYA, His & Hers saunas, a salt water pool, a gym, and a juice and smoothie bar. Complimentary activities include yoga and stretching classes, an exclusive Polar Photography program, the Scientists in Residence program, and more adventure activities than any other Quark vessel. The ship also has a polar library, and a Polar Boutique for gifts and any needed gear.

    Features & Facilities
    • Newly refurbished
    • Large observation decks
    • Health & Wellness focus
    • Contemporary cuisine
    • Newly designed health & wellness facilities; Organic spa
    • Saunas
    • Salt-water pool
    • Gym
    • Juice/Smoothie Bar
    • Yoga
    • Library
    • Lecture theatre
    • Internet/Wifi
    Key Facts
    Luxury star rating: 3
    Guests #: 199
    Crew #: 124
    Ice Class: 1B
    Speed: 20
    Refurbished:
    Technical Specs
    Year built:
    Length: 137m
    Width: 21
    Draft:
    Tonnage: 12907
    Registry: Bahamas
    Elec Outlets: 220V / 2 Round Pin
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We understand that the trip of a lifetime takes planning, so we make the financial commitments easy to manage.

  • Confirm your booking today with just USD$ 1,000 per passenger.
  • Pay your 25% deposit 5 day later.
  • Final payment due 120 days prior to departure.
Ocean Endeavour Antarctica Triple cabin

Triple

15 Feb 2020 - 08 Mar 2020
Triple cabins are on Deck 4 is an interior cabin with three lower berths, and private bath. Cabin 4100 has four lower single beds and one private bathroom with a separate shower room.
USD$ 14,016pp
USD$ 14,016pp
Ocean Endeavour Antarctica twin porthole cabin

Twin Porthole Upper/Lower

15 Feb 2020 - 08 Mar 2020
Twin Porthole cabins are on Deck 4 features a porthole window, one lower and one upper berth and a private bathroom.
USD$ 20,864pp
USD$ 20,864pp
Ocean Endeavour Antarctica twin window cabin

Twin Window

15 Feb 2020 - 08 Mar 2020
Twin Window cabins are on Deck 5 features a picture window, two lower berths and private bathroom.
USD$ 21,696pp
USD$ 21,696pp
Ocean Endeavour Antarctica upper deck twin cabin

Upper Deck Double

15 Feb 2020 - 08 Mar 2020
Upper Deck Twin/Double cabins are on Deck 8 features a window (obstructed view), one double bed and a private bathroom.
USD$ 22,656pp
USD$ 22,656pp
Ocean Endeavour Antarctica twin porthole suite

Twin Porthole Suite

15 Feb 2020 - 08 Mar 2020
Twin Porthole Suites (2) are on Deck 4 is twice the size of a Twin Porthole, with two bathrooms. It features two single beds, a separate living area with a pull out sofa bed, two porthole windows, and two private bathrooms.
USD$ 23,488pp
USD$ 23,488pp
Ocean Endeavour Antarctica superior twin cabin

Superior Double

15 Feb 2020 - 08 Mar 2020
Superior Twin/Double are on Deck 7 features one double bed, a sofa, a large window, and a private bathroom. Cabins 7000 and 7018 have bathtubs; other Superior Doubles have showers.
USD$ 24,576pp
USD$ 24,576pp
Ocean Endeavour Antarctica single inside cabin

Single Inside

15 Feb 2020 - 08 Mar 2020
Single Inside cabins are on Deck 5 is an interior cabin with a lower berth and private bathroom.
USD$ 25,088pp
USD$ 25,088pp
Ocean Endeavour Antarctica top deck double cabin

Top Deck Double

15 Feb 2020 - 08 Mar 2020
Top Deck Double cabins are on Deck 8 features two large windows (one window with partial obstruction), one double bed and a private bathroom.
USD$ 25,536pp
USD$ 25,536pp
Ocean Endeavour Antarctica twin window suite

Twin Window Suite

15 Feb 2020 - 08 Mar 2020
Twin Window Suites are on Deck 5 is twice the size of a Twin Window, with one bathroom. It features two single beds, a separate living area with a pull out sofa bed, two windows, and one private bathroom.
USD$ 26,624pp
USD$ 26,624pp
Ocean Endeavour Antarctica junior suite

Junior Suite

15 Feb 2020 - 08 Mar 2020
Junior Suites are on Deck 7. All Junior Suites feature a picture window, one double bed and private bath. Cabins 7000 and 7002 have bathtubs and forward facing windows; other Junior Suites have showers and portside views.
USD$ 27,840pp
USD$ 27,840pp
Ocean Endeavour Antarctica owners suite

Owner's Suite

15 Feb 2020 - 08 Mar 2020
Owner’s Suite is on Deck 7 features two large bow-facing windows, one double bed, separate sitting room and private bath with tub.
USD$ 28,992pp
USD$ 28,992pp