Map of Antarctica, South Georgia & Falklands Odyssey (Ocean Endeavour) including Antarctica, Argentina, Falkland Islands (malvinas) and South Georgia

Explore the Great White Continent, Falkland Islands and South Georgia

This special polar voyage sees you taking to the high seas. Before too long you’ll be exploring the frosted beauty of Antarctica, observing penguin colonies that number in the thousands and looking for whales in deeper water. Travel in sustainable style on the Ocean Endeavour, tracing the same path as legendary explorer Sir Ernest Shackleton – including Elephant Island. Watch everything turn to white as you enter the waters around the frozen continent on this rare expedition.

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Terms & Conditions

Start
Ushuaia, Argentina
Finish
Puerto Madryn, Argentina
Destinations
Antarctica, Argentina, Falkland Islands, South Georgia
Style
Comfort
Theme
Polar, Wildlife
Code
GQMSG
Physical rating
Ages
Min 8
Group size
Min 1, Max 200

Why you'll love this trip

  • Travel with experts in marine biology, glaciology and Antarctic history. They’ll share their knowledge throughout the journey during a comprehensive lecture program.

  • With optional adventures including ice camping and kayaking, and rare touches of five-star luxury thanks to an onboard spa and wellness centre, this is as good as Antarctic expedition travel gets.

  • Intrepid expeditions on the Ocean Endeavour have one expedition crew member for every eight passengers for a greater personal touch.

  • Rest assured that footprints are all you’ll leave behind. Your Antarctica expedition is carbon offset, serves sustainably sourced seafood and avoids single-use plastics.

Is this trip right for you?

  • The Antarctic waters can be rough and unpredictable, but don’t worry - our ice-strengthened ship is big and sturdy and equipped with stabilizers to ensure you’ll have a safe crossing to the white continent. Some people may experience seasickness, especially through the Drake Passage and other open water crossings, so please be prepared with medications to combat this. There is also an Expedition Doctor on board should you need further assistance.

  • It’s best to dress in layers when you journey outside and we’ll provide you with waterproof muck boots that are sturdy and warm as well as an insulated inner jacket (yours to keep) and a robust outer Expedition Parka. Please see the Antarctic Travellers Guide for more detailed information on what Expedition Gear we provide and what to bring with you.

  • Depending on the weather, you’ll be zipping around in Zodiacs quite regularly to explore the area and search for wildlife. Some spray could occur, so make sure you dress appropriately and keep your camera safe and dry. Enduring the elements is one thing, having no photos to show for it is another. Sturdy sea legs are needed for wet and dry landings from the Zodiacs, as well as on steep terrain, snow and other uneven surfaces. The Ocean Endeavour has an elevator, but you’ll need to take the stairs to get to the gangway and some other parts of the ship that the elevator does not provide access to.

  • The weather plays a pivotal part in this adventure and, although there’s an itinerary in place, there are no guarantees that you’ll be able to do everything that is planned for. A level of flexibility and openness to embracing the unexpected are important in expedition travel, especially in such a remote area. There are nearly 200 recognised sites in the Antarctic Peninsula and the South Shetland Islands; the places mentioned in the itinerary may need to be changed to others (which are just as interesting). We may also be confined to the ship during rough weather. The ship’s Polar library and educational lectures are ideal ways to stay entertained, while the Australis spa, saunas, gym and yoga and meditation classes will keep you fresh for when the weather clears.

Itinerary

Welcome to Ushuaia, Argentina, the southernmost city in the world. On arrival at the airport, meet your Intrepid representative and transfer to your hotel. Attend a welcome meeting and briefing this evening to run through the details of embarkation tomorrow. If you arrive early and have some time, Ushuaia is (unsurprisingly) a fantastic place to try cold-water seafood like king crab.
Accommodation
  • Hotel (1 night)
Meals Included
There are no meals included on this day.
Special Information
It’s very important that you attend the welcome meeting tonight as we will be collecting insurance details and next of kin information at this time. If you are going to be late please let your travel agent or hotel reception know. Ask reception or look for a note in the lobby for more information on exactly when the meeting will take place.

An arrival transfer from the airport is included in your voyage fare. This transfer is only valid for passengers arriving in Ushuaia on Day 1 of the itinerary. Full details of the transfer will be sent with your final joining instructions, please speak to an Intrepid booking agent for more.
Your morning is free before you transfer to and board the vessel in the afternoon. Settle into your cabin and meet the ship staff and expedition crew. Enjoy a welcome dinner and get to know your fellow travellers. Who knows, gravy might even be on the menu. Set off on your expedition in the late afternoon or early evening. Cruise down the historic Beagle Channel, maybe getting your first view of some of the region’s spectacular wildlife on the rocky shores.
Accommodation
  • Ocean Endeavour (1 night)
Meals Included
  • Breakfast
  • Dinner
Spend the next few days traversing the infamous Drake Passage, named after Sir Frances Drake, on your way to the Antarctic Peninsula. While crossing the passage you can get acquainted with the many first-class amenities available on the Ocean Endeavour – maybe do a yoga class or brush up on your photography skills in preparation for your arrival. The researchers and scientists travelling with you will begin their onboard lecture program over the next few days and (if conditions are favourable) you’ll also be able to join them on deck to spot seabirds and maybe whales. Expect to reach the peninsula on the evening of Day 4.
Accommodation
  • Ocean Endeavour (2 nights)
Meals Included
  • Breakfast (2)
  • Lunch (2)
  • Dinner (2)
Spend three unforgettable days exploring the Great White Continent with your expert crew. While landing sites will be chosen based on wildlife-spotting opportunities and weather conditions, you can expect to explore on land and by Zodiac boat during daily excursions. The Antarctic Peninsula is home to leopard seals, adelie penguins and chinstrap penguins, among many others. Nights will be spent on board, listening to lectures from the expedition crew. One or more of Paul Kelly’s three planned performances might happen during our time on the peninsula.
Accommodation
  • Ocean Endeavour (3 nights)
Meals Included
  • Breakfast (3)
  • Lunch (3)
  • Dinner (3)
Special Information
Potential excursions and landing sites are determined by weather and ice conditions and cannot be guaranteed in advance. Want to get an idea of some of the amazing places we might see during the expedition? Go to intrepidtravel.com/antarctica-landing-sites for a taste.
Today we make for the ice-covered isle where Sir Ernest Shackleton and his team were stranded in 1915. Located on the north-eastern fringes of the South Shetland islands, Elephant Island has tall and craggy rock formations. If conditions allow, we will attempt a landing or Zodiac cruise around Elephant Island, which will give you a real sense of just how impressive Shackleton and co’s survival really was.
Accommodation
  • Ocean Endeavour (1 night)
Meals Included
  • Breakfast
  • Lunch
  • Dinner
Hit the sea once again, bound for South Georgia, arriving by the evening of Day 11 if conditions are favourable. Maybe take the opportunity to relax and unwind with some onboard health and wellness services. Or perhaps you’d prefer to taste the crisp Antarctic air from on deck as seabirds and perhaps whales rear their heads.
Accommodation
  • Ocean Endeavour (2 nights)
Meals Included
  • Breakfast (2)
  • Lunch (2)
  • Dinner (2)
Begin exploring South Georgia, not only one of the most remote and wild places on earth, but also holder of the nickname ‘Galapagos of the South’ due to the incredible wildlife that calls the island home. Marvel at the many seabirds, encounter penguin colonies and spy elephant and fur seal pups. While the wildlife is incredible, it’s not all about the animals. The glaciers, mountains and fascinating history of South Georgia are also captivating. The island has been a British Overseas Territory since 1775 and at 3755 square kilometres (1450 square miles) is the territory’s largest island.
Accommodation
  • Ocean Endeavour (4 nights)
Meals Included
  • Breakfast (4)
  • Lunch (4)
  • Dinner (4)
Special Information
Potential excursions and landing sites are determined by weather and ice conditions and cannot be guaranteed in advance. Want to get an idea of some of the amazing places we might see during the expedition? Go to intrepidtravel.com/antarctica-landing-sites for a taste.
Settle in for two days at sea as we cruise towards the Falkland Islands. As with your other times at sea, you can spend your time relaxing, learning, or both.
Accommodation
  • Ocean Endeavour (2 nights)
Meals Included
  • Breakfast (2)
  • Lunch (2)
  • Dinner (2)
Explore the two main islands of the Falklands (East and West) by Zodiac and on foot over the next two days. Wildlife sightings should include at least three species of penguin and two endemic bird species – Cobb’s wren and the flightless steamer duck. The expedition team will educate you on the local flora and fauna so you will know what you’re looking for. Probable landing sites include the quaint capital Port Stanley, West Point Island, Sea Lion Island and Bleaker Island.
Accommodation
  • Ocean Endeavour (2 nights)
Meals Included
  • Breakfast (2)
  • Lunch (2)
  • Dinner (2)
Special Information
Potential excursions and landing sites are determined by weather and ice conditions and cannot be guaranteed in advance. Want to get an idea of some of the amazing places we might see during the expedition? Go to intrepidtravel.com/antarctica-landing-sites for a taste.
Hit the seas for the return journey to Argentina. Soak up the last of the knowledge shared by the onboard experts and make the most of the facilities while you can. On your last night on board, enjoy a farewell captain’s dinner and toast to the epic journey that was.
Accommodation
  • Ocean Endeavour (2 nights)
Meals Included
  • Breakfast (2)
  • Lunch (2)
  • Dinner (2)
Your adventure comes to an end in Puerto Madryn. If you are flying out of Trelew Airport today, a transfer is included in your trip price.
Meals Included
  • Breakfast
Special Information
A departure transfer to the airport is included in your expedition price, but only if you have an onward flight booked for today. Please speak to an Intrepid booking agent to advise them of your flight details.

If you are flying out today, please do not book your flight to depart Puerto Madryn before midday in case of any delays caused by unfavourable weather conditions.

Meals

20 breakfasts, 18 lunches, 19 dinners

Transport

Expedition Cruise Ship, Zodiac

Accommodation

Comfortable Hotel (1 night), Expedition cruise ship (19 nights)

Dates & availability

Trip departures are unavailable.

There are currently no scheduled departures on our Antarctica, South Georgia & Falklands Odyssey (Ocean Endeavour) trip. If you are interested in other trips in the region visit one of the links below.

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Important notes

COVID 19 VACCINATION
Mandatory COVID-19 vaccination is a requirement for joining this voyage. At the time of final payment, we will request a copy of your vaccination status.

PRICES AND SURCHARGES
Please ensure that you familiarise yourself with our Antarctic Voyage Booking Conditions, specifically "4. - Prices and Surcharges” prior to booking a voyage. Fuel surcharges are subject to market conditions and fluctuations.
Please note as of the 22nd of July we have begun adding a fuel surcharge per ship night to the 22/23 season. All impacted customers will be contacted and advised of the surcharge details.
A fuel surcharge of USD54 per ship night has now been added onto the 10th of March 2023 departure. For more information please read the FAQ’s here www.intrepidtravel.com/antarctica-fuel-surcharge

ADVENTURE OPTIONS
Approach a looming glacier in a sea kayak, strap on snowshoes to reach the best icy viewpoints, capture the perfect penguin shot under the guidance of expert Photography guides or camp under an Antarctic night sky – these are just some of the ways you can enrich your exploration of the great White Continent with our additional activities. Our additional adventure options are subject to availability, weather and sea conditions, itinerary and departure date, so please contact your booking agent for more detailed information. Spaces on all adventure options are limited. For pre-booked activities, we recommend booking via your booking agent early to avoid disappointment.

PRE-BOOKED ADVENTURE OPTIONS (extra charge)

KAYAKING:
In small groups of 16 kayakers, under full instruction from our Expedition Kayak Guides, experience true tranquillity as you paddle through clinking ice floes in awe of the enormity of the surrounding scenery. Previous kayaking experience and a good level of fitness is required. Single and double sea kayaks are available. Please refer to our Kayaking Preparation Notes for more information.

PHOTOGRAPHY:
Capture incredible wildlife and landscape shots under the expert guidance of our world-class photographers, whilst utilising the latest photography gear available on loan throughout your voyage. Our small group dedicated Photography Program offers photography enthusiasts of any skill level the opportunity to make photography a focus of their expedition.

CAMPING:
Camp out on the ice and experience the silence that 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. Please refer to our Camping Preparation Notes for more information. Please note: Camping is not available on late-season departures.

BOOK ON BOARD ADVENTURE OPTIONS
We also have a range of adventure options that can be booked and paid on board. These include:

SNOWSHOEING:
Get a spring in your step when you clip 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. Weather dependent. Please note: Snowshoeing is not available on late-season departures.

DAY PADDLE:
Enjoy an unforgettable experience on the water, taking in the breathtaking surroundings of Antarctica, whilst accompanied by Expedition Day Paddle Guides. Our expertly guided, one-off, day paddle excursions in our stable, sit-on-top inflatable kayaks give you the rare chance to see Antarctica from the same perspective as most of the wildlife – at the surface of the sea. No previous kayaking experience is required.

YOGA AND MEDITATION CLASSES:
It doesn’t get more serene than a yoga class to the tune of glacial scenery. Join the most unique exercise setting in the world after a day of exploration. Classes are complimentary and regular but are dependent on weather conditions and swell.

Essential trip information

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