Best of Antarctica: Pristine Wilderness | Polar Cruises

Best of Antarctica: Pristine Wilderness | Ocean Endeavour Expedition Ship

Best of Antarctica: Pristine Wilderness

Embark on an 11-day expedition to the Antarctic Peninsula and behold the untouched beauty of its landscapes. Experience the pristine wilderness as the melting sea ice reveals a pure realm. Capture awe-inspiring moments as you explore via Zodiac, encountering majestic whales, seals, seabirds, and breathtaking icebergs displaying shades of white and aquamarine. Watch penguins compete for nesting spots amidst pebble disputes and remain vigilant for Leopard seals on drifting ice. Cruise through fragmented ice aboard the Ocean Endeavour, potentially navigating through the narrow, towering Lemaire Channel. As we venture southward, join us on deck to immerse yourself in Antarctica's pristine snowscapes, delving deeper into its untouched wilderness alongside its inhabitants.

Day by day

Day 1: Ushuaia, Argentina

Your journey begins in Ushuaia, Argentina. Upon arrival at the airport, a representative holding a sign with your ship's name will welcome you. In case you can't find them, refer to your final itinerary for contact information. Nestled within the Tierra del Fuego archipelago, Ushuaia boasts an array of shops, museums, restaurants, and cafes to explore before setting sail. Serving as an excellent starting point, this Argentine town allows you to delve into the southern reaches of Patagonia while preparing for the adventures ahead. For those craving excitement, the nearby Tierra del Fuego National Park offers numerous opportunities for outdoor activities.

Day 2: Embarkation In Ushuaia

Once you've boarded the Ocean Endeavour in the late afternoon, your Antarctic journey begins by sailing southward through the famed Beagle Channel. This channel, named after the historic vessel linked to Charles Darwin's expedition, provides excellent opportunities to capture stunning landscapes and observe seabirds.

Day 3 & 4: At Sea, Drake Passage

Day 5, 6, 7 & 8: South Shetland Islands & Antarctica

Day 9 & 10: At Sea, Drake Passage

Day 11: Disembarkation In Ushuaia, Argentina

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Cruise Includes

All meals onboard the Ocean Endeavour including snacks

Onboard lecture program from expedition staff and naturalists

All shore excursions and zodiac cruising (except optional activities 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 Cruise

Transfer from airport to hotel (Day 1) and pre-night hotel accommodation with breakfast

Transfer from hotel accommodation to the Ocean Endeavour for embarkation

Transfers to airport on return to port

All port taxes

Use of gym, sauna, pool and on-board jacuzzi and onboard yoga

Cruise does not include

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

Visa and passport fees

Travel insurance

Optional activities and all personal expenses

Tobacco, alcoholic or special beverages

Miscellaneous extras

Laundry and communication charges aboard

Medical care

Life jackets, waterproof outer shell jacket, insulated inner jacket and boots for minors under 16 years of age at time of travel

Waterproof outer shell jacket and insulated inner jacket for guests who require sizing larger than 3XL

Boots for guests who require sizing larger than men’s size 14 boots

Gratuities for crew and expedition staf

Highlights

Navigate through Antarctic waters, encountering majestic whales, seals, and seabirds.

Witness stunning ice formations displaying shades of snow white and deep aquamarine.

Observe penguins engaging in nesting rituals amidst captivating pebble squabbles.

Glide through narrow, towering passages, possibly spotting Leopard seals on drifting ice.

Immerse yourself in untouched snowscapes, following Antarctica's inhabitants deeper into the wilderness.

Activities

Sea Kayaking

Under full instruction from your sea kayaking guide, experience true tranquillity as you paddle through clinking ice floes and realise the enormity of the surrounding scenery. Look out for breaching whales, lounging seals and penguins zipping alongside your kayak. Some experience is required.

Ice Camping

Camp out on the ice and experience the silence which blankets the continent by night. This is your chance to completely connect with this ethereal ice world – wrap up warm and embrace the Antarctic elements.

Snowshoeing

Get a spring in your step when you slip on a pair of snowshoes in Antarctica. Enabling you to easily scale gentle slopes, this unique activity allows you to access hard to reach places and seek out the most impressive views.

Photography