ocean endeavour antarctica cruise

Antarctic Explorer: Discovering the 7th Continent (11 Days)

  • Overview
    Antarctica has been inspiring explorers for centuries. And this expedition offers you the chance to discover why, with an unforgettable journey through the spectacular wilderness of the South Shetland Islands and Antarctic Peninsula. You’ll encounter a world where nature creates the rules, her unpredictable temperament making each trip unique, exciting and personal. Imagine cruising in a Zodiac through crackling sea ice like shattered glass, witnessing penguins building their nests, or navigating through a maze of icebergs, each one uniquely shaped by its journey through the sea. You’ll enjoy iconic Antarctic highlights, exhilarating adventures and be rewarded with memories to last a lifetime.
    Duration: 11 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 3/4 - Crossing the Drake Passage

      Prepare yourself for potentially rough water, but hope for a smooth sailing, as the Drake is unpredictable and always changing. You’ll spend these first days getting to know your shipmates while your Expedition Team provides safety briefings and insights into what excitement lies ahead.

    • Day 5/8 - South Shetland Islands and Antarctic Peninsula

      Once the Antarctic Convergence is left in our wake, you will truly begin your Antarctic adventure. It is perhaps the first sight of land itself that is embraced as the true beginning of any Antarctic expedition. 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 local bays, channels and landing sites. With wildlife always at the forefront of our minds, you will visit penguin rookeries, scout for humpback and minke whales, and search for a number of southern seal species, including the cunning leopard seal.

      The majesty of the Antarctic Peninsula’s mountains will enchant as you scramble up snowy pathways to vantage points offering you 360° views of your surroundings. One of these in particular, in Orne Harbour, affords us the opportunity to visit a chinstrap penguin colony high up on a ridge. Here, you’ll have the choice between mountain hiking or spending time sitting quietly on a pebbled beach, enjoying the antics of curious penguins. If you’re feeling extra adventurous, participating in the Polar Plunge swim is about as crazy as it gets!

      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 in Neko Harbor.

      Each day will be different, having been carefully crafted by your Expedition Team to entertain and educate you about this wonderful part of the world.

    • Day 9/10 - Crossing the Drake Passage

      The journey back across the Drake Passage provides final opportunities to enjoy the crisp Antarctic air. Spend time on the deck, watching for seabirds and scouting for whales, enjoy presentations by your Expedition Team, or simply relax and reminisce about your experiences.

    • Day 11 - Disembarkation in Ushuaia

      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.

  • Adventure Activities

    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$ 1,169 per person

    Camping

    Not very many people have the opportunity to say they’ve camped on the 7th Continent. This is one of the best ways to experience Antarctica in a more intimate manner, and take your expedition to the next level.

    Camping is available on most Antarctic voyages and has a limited number of spots. All equipment, guides and instructions are provided.

    USD$ 278 per person

    Ski Antarctica

    If you love cross-country skiing, why not experience it on pristine Antarctic snow? All you’ll hear will be the sound of your skis gliding through the fresh snow as penguins provide the soundtrack to your journey. Cross-country skiing is available on select Antarctic voyages at the beginning of the season. All equipment, guides and instructions are provided

    USD$ 537 per person

    Mountaineering

    Mountaineering is offered on select Antarctic voyages at the beginning of the season.

    Mountaineering in Antarctica is not for the faint of heart. This adventure option is geared towards the more adventurous travelers, but is quite the rewarding experience. Spaces are limited and require some experience.All equipment, guides and instructions are provided.

    USD$ 537 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$ 278 per person

    Snowshoeing

    Experience the 7th Continent the way explorers of yesteryear did — by snowshoe.

    Walk atop fresh snow and visit places that are inaccessible by foot. Snowshoeing is offered on select Antarctic voyages at the beginning of the season. Spaces are limited and all equipment, guides and instructions are provided.

    Included

    Photography

    A picture truly is worth a thousand words, but in Antarctica, it’s worth about a hundred thousand words. Regardless of the type of camera you have, you’ll want to capture your voyage so you can brag to your friends and family. On board photographer's are able to provide you with hints and tips in an informal manner and assist you in the field.

    Always remember to put your camera down and absorb the incredible beauty of the Polar Regions before you.

    Included

    Transfer Package

    Pre expedition hotel night in Buenos Aires, with breakfast, Group transfer from the hotel to the airport in Buenos Aires, Charter flight from Buenos Aires to Ushuaia (return), Group transfer from Ushuaia airport to the ship (return).

    USD$ 890 per person

    Send a postcard home from Port Lockroy

    This British base, established in 1944, on arrival you will receive a warm accolade both by the volunteers of the UK Antarctic Heritage Trust and the colony of Gentoo penguins that nestles just by the old timber structure. Get small denomination US$ notes to buy a few postcards and send them home with Antarctic stamps from one of the southernmost Post Offices in the world.

    Shoot to your shutter's content!

    For aspiring photographers, the best time to shoot the Antarctic landscape is definitely October, November and March. At these times the sun is much lower in the sky and thus creates beautiful twilight hues and shadows, which contrast the landscape magnificently.

    Of course, if it is wildlife and Antarctica’s babies you are hoping to shoot, then January and February are the best times. Alternatively, consider an early season South Georgia & Antarctica expedition for the best of wildlife and photo opportunities in Antarctica.

  • 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

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

    Not included in your Expedition

    - Airfares unless stated in the itinerary (required charter flight is an additional cost)
    - Massage services
    - Gratuities
    - Internet and Wifi expenses
    - Bar expenses
    - Laundry expenses
    - Mandatory waterproof gear not provided
    - Baggage / cancellation / interruption and medical travel insurance
    - Passport and Visa expenses
  • Map
    Screen shot 2017 07 04 at 5.27.35 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
Check Voyage Dates, Pricing and Availability
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Ready to book your expedition?

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.

Triple

14 Nov 2017 - 24 Nov 2017
Inside cabin, with 3 lower berths and private facilities
USD$ 5,712pp
USD$ 5,712pp

Single

14 Nov 2017 - 24 Nov 2017
Inside cabin, with private facilties
USD$ 9,520pp
USD$ 9,520pp

Twin Porthole Upper/Lower

14 Nov 2017 - 24 Nov 2017
Twin beds, private facilities and window
USD$ 9,520pp
USD$ 9,520pp

Twin Window

14 Nov 2017 - 24 Nov 2017
Twin beds, private facilities and window
USD$ 10,472pp
USD$ 10,472pp

Twin Porthole Plus

14 Nov 2017 - 24 Nov 2017
Twin beds, separate sitting room and private bathrooms
USD$ 11,628pp
USD$ 11,628pp

Twin Porthole Plus2

14 Nov 2017 - 24 Nov 2017
Twin beds, separate sitting room and 2 x private bathrooms
USD$ 11,628pp
USD$ 11,628pp

Upper Deck Twin

14 Nov 2017 - 24 Nov 2017
Twin beds, private facilities and window
USD$ 11,832pp
USD$ 11,832pp

Superior Twin

14 Nov 2017 - 24 Nov 2017
Twin or double bedding, private facilities and a picture window
USD$ 12,172pp
USD$ 12,172pp

Top Deck Twin

14 Nov 2017 - 24 Nov 2017
Double bed, private facilities and two large windows
USD$ 12,444pp
USD$ 12,444pp

Twin Window Plus

14 Nov 2017 - 24 Nov 2017
Twin beds, private facilities, sitting area and a sofa
USD$ 12,852pp
USD$ 12,852pp

Twin Window Plus2

14 Nov 2017 - 24 Nov 2017
Twin beds, separate sitting room and 2 x private bathrooms
USD$ 12,852pp
USD$ 12,852pp

Junior Suite

14 Nov 2017 - 24 Nov 2017
Double bed, private bathroom and large picture window
USD$ 13,328pp
USD$ 13,328pp

Owner's Suit

14 Nov 2017 - 24 Nov 2017
Bow facing Suite with double bed, sitting area and large bathroom
USD$ 13,804pp
USD$ 13,804pp