Where the mighty waters of the Atlantic and Pacific Oceans collide
The Antarctic is undoubtedly a bucket-list destination, but the sometimes calm, sometimes volatile body of water known as the Drake Passage is the stuff of travel legend. Known to many as one of the roughest sea passages in the world, this icy expanse not only offers rare glimpses into the world of marine mammals but also allows you the time to come to terms with the sheer size and scale of the Antarctica region. Whether you want to scout the horizon for breaching humpback whales or take a deep breath of the fresh, icy air from the top deck, our Drake Passage cruises will undoubtedly be an unforgettable adventure.
There are very few places where you can completely switch off and be at one with the natural landscape surrounding you. Drake Passage is one of those places. Escape from the general racket of ship life and go to the boat's bow for a deep, lungful of fresh and icy Antarctic air. Please refrain from acting out Leo's 'King of the World' moment.
When you think of on-board activities, yoga may not be the first one that comes to mind, however, it’s one of the best ways to rejuvenate your soul and leave you feeling refreshed for the journey ahead. Take the time to participate in a class with a professional instructor and release any tension or stress you might be holding onto (you definitely don’t need that in the Antarctic).
If the weather is misbehaving during your journey through Drake Passage, there are still plenty of things to do on board to keep you entertained. That’s where the polar library comes in. With books on everything under the sun, including fascinating facts on your otherworldly destination, enrich your mind in preparation for the rest of your polar adventure.
You can’t go on an eye-opening, life-changing trip to the Antarctic without knowing the wanderlusters travelling with you. Crossing the Drake Passage is the perfect time to relax, drink, regale your shipmates with stories of your previous adventures, and get excited for the epic one you're about to go on.
If you think that just because there’s no land in sight, you won’t see any animals during your voyage across the notorious Drake Passage then perhaps you should think again. Drake Passage is full of animal life from high-flying albatross to breaching whales. The opportunity to photograph these creatures in all their Antarctic glory is a definite pinch-me moment you’ll remember for years to come.
Learn about Antarctica’s epic history from polar experts
It might seem like there's not much to do when crossing the Drake Passage, but the polar experts on board would say otherwise. Knowledgeable on all things Antarctica, including the region's history, geology, and biology, treat yourself to a presentation or lecture from the professionals who know it best so you know exactly what you're sailing into.
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Best of Antarctica: Wildlife Explorer (Ocean Endeavour)
Sarah · Traveled January 2024
I absolutely loved this trip. It was very expensive but once we were on the expedition ship you could see why.
Everything was just brilliantly organised; the food was excellent, the drinks were a fair price, the whole crew were exceptional, friendly and always there with a smile and happy to chat.
The twice-daily excursions were always very well organised, and the crew who took us on them were knowledgeable, friendly and professional.
Our beds were turned down every night, it was all just so comfortable. I met so many lovely people and there were a lot of us solo travellers.
All-in-all I can't believe I finally made it to Antarctica. It was as wonderful as I imagined it would be and quite a few of us wished we could've stayed there longer.
Review submitted 11 Mar 2024
Best of Antarctica: Wildlife Explorer (Ocean Endeavour)
Kirsten · Traveled January 2024
Intrepid makes Antarctica a safe, environmentally conscious, and accessible destination. The trip is packed with learning and adventure and no time is wasted. I can’t recommend this trip enough!
Review submitted 03 Feb 2024
Best of Antarctica: Wildlife Explorer (Ocean Endeavour)
Amanda · Traveled January 2024
I had an absolutely amazing time on the ocean endeavour! We had so many landings and got so close to whales and saw so many penguins and birds. As well as some amazing views and Zodiac cruises through the ice fields. 10/10 recommend this company and tour. They are also very conscious of the wildlife and environment which was also important to me!
Review submitted 03 Feb 2024
Best of Antarctica: Wildlife Explorer (Ocean Endeavour)
Kazuma · Traveled January 2024
I had experienced amazing days. Each day, I could see different awesome views.
Review submitted 03 Feb 2024
Best of Antarctica: Wildlife Explorer (Ocean Endeavour)
Jenna · Traveled January 2024
This trip was a life changing experience. The intrepid/chimu team were fantastic and they elevated our trip to the next level. I would recommend this trip to anyone looking for an amazing adventure!
Review submitted 03 Feb 2024
Drake Passage travel FAQs
Trips from 1 January 2023 onwards
From 1 January 2023, Intrepid will no longer require travellers to provide proof of vaccination against COVID-19 (excluding all Polar trips and select adventure cruises).
However, we continue to strongly recommend that all Intrepid travellers and leaders get vaccinated to protect themselves and others.
Specific proof of testing or vaccination may still be required by your destination or airline. Please ensure you check travel and entry requirements carefully.
The Drake Passage is situated between Ushuaia, the southernmost tip of Argentina, and stretches to the top of the Antarctic Continental Shelf.
The passage itself is 1000km in length and takes about 36 hours to cross in good weather, and up to 48 hours if the water is choppy.
Despite its reputation of being one of the most treacherous water crossings in the world, crossing the Drake Passage isn't dangerous anymore.
While that may have been different for the region's first explorers centuries ago, new technology, safety procedures, and specialised equipment nowadays ensure a safe crossing.
If you're joining us on an Antarctica cruise, you'll cross the Drake Passage in order to get to Antarctica. It's often viewed as one of those 'bucket-list' things you simply have to do if you're travelling to the region.
While you can experience horrible weather conditions and rough waters anytime, summer is considered the best time to cross through the Drake Passage. This is because the weather is usually calmer and doesn't produce as many storms as in spring or autumn.
Travelling in either June, July, or August will theoretically give you the best chance of avoiding awful weather.
We are committed to making travel widely accessible, regardless of ability or disability. We do our best to help you see the world, regardless of physical or mental limitations.
We are always happy to talk to travellers with disabilities and see if we can help guide them toward the most suitable itinerary for their needs and, where possible, make reasonable adjustments to our itineraries.