21 Days | Follow the path of Shackleton to the Great White Continent





Calling all wildlife enthusiasts, history buffs, thrill seekers and photographers – this is the adventure for you. Embark on an epic 21-day journey to discover the wonders of the Antarctic Peninsula, South Georgia and the Falkland Islands. After several days of excursions among the snow and ice of the Antarctic Peninsula and the South Shetland Islands, follow in the footsteps of the heroic polar explorer Sir Ernest Shackleton, tracing his route north via Elephant Island to the rugged archipelago of South Georgia. From legendary historical sites to more than 250,000 king penguins, South Georgia is sure to leave you in awe. To round out the final part of your voyage, the rolling hills and windswept albatross colonies of the Falkland Islands await on your journey home to Ushuaia.
Trip overview

- Start
- Ushuaia, Argentina
- Finish
- Ushuaia, Argentina
- Theme
- Polar, Wildlife
- Destinations
- South Georgia Island, Argentina, Antarctica, Falkland Islands
- Physical rating
- Indicates how physically exerting a trip is, and how fit you will need to be to enjoy it. More info on physical ratings
- Style
- Comfort
- Ages
- Min 8
- Group size
- Min 1 - Max 200
- Trip code
- GQMWS
- This expedition hits three major Antarctic hotspots – the Antarctic Peninsula, South Georgia and the Falkland Islands – maximising chances of spotting wildlife and exploring diverse polar landscapes.
- Discover the penguin colonies, famous sites and glaciers of the Antarctic Peninsula and South Shetland Islands. Then, explore Grytviken and Elephant Island, sites written into the legend of Shackleton’s historic Antarctic voyage.
- In the Falklands, wander the quaint British town of Stanley and explore its charming island farmsteads teeming with nesting seabirds, including numerous albatross and penguin species.
- Retrace the route of the legendary Sir Ernest Shackleton, who led three expeditions to the Antarctic region, and uncover the historical events of his journey.
- Customise your trip with a wide range of optional activities on top of regular Zodiac excursions. Explore the water by kayak, sign up for a photography masterclass, rejuvenate with onboard yoga and a massage, take a bracing polar plunge or camp overnight like a true polar explorer.
- The Ocean Endeavour is an ice-strengthened ship – large, sturdy and suited to the unpredictable Antarctic waters. Some people may experience seasickness in occasional rough seas however, we do have a doctor on board should you need assistance. Over-the-counter seasickness medication is usually an easy fix.
- Temperatures in the Antarctic can get very cold, but it also can get surprisingly warm when the sun comes out. We recommend dressing in layers when you journey outside. We’ll provide you with waterproof boots on loan that are sturdy and warm, as well as an inner jacket that is yours to keep. Please see the Essential Trip Information for notes on what to pack.
- Depending on the weather, you’ll be travelling around in a Zodiac boat quite regularly to explore the area and search for wildlife. It can get cold and wet on the Zodiac, so make sure you dress appropriately and keep your camera safe and dry. A fair level of mobility is needed for wet and dry landings from the boat, as well as on steep terrain, snow and other uneven surfaces. The Ocean Endeavour has a lift, but you’ll need to take the stairs to get to the gangway and some other parts of the ship that the lift 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. A level of flexibility and openness to embracing the unexpected are important in expedition travel, especially in such a remote area like the Antarctic. There are nearly 200 recognised sites in the Antarctic Peninsula and South Shetlands and the places mentioned in the itinerary may need to be changed to other locations – which are just as interesting and beautiful! We may also be confined to the ship during rough weather, but there are plenty on onboard resources and activities. The ship’s library and educational lectures are ideal ways to stay entertained, while the wellness spa, saunas, gym and yoga classes will keep you fresh for when the weather clears.
Boats
Itinerary
Inclusions
20 breakfasts, 18 lunches, 19 dinners
Expedition cruise ship, zodiac
Comfortable Hotel (1 night), Expedition Cruise Ship (19 nights)
Dates and availability
Important notes
SPECIAL BOOKING CONDITIONS
You are required to pay a non-refundable deposit of AUD3000, USD2000, EUR1800, NZD3200, GBP1600, CAD2600, CHF1800 or ZAR34,000 per person per trip for your booking to be confirmed. Full payment is required 95 days prior to departure.
Please refer to our “Booking and Conditions” section on our website including the special conditions that apply to Antarctica Voyages (Ocean Endeavour)
SPECIAL INFORMATION for the 8TH OF JANUARY 2024 DEPARTURE
We love travelling the world with like-minded travelers and Antarctica is no different. This sometimes means that our Antarctica vessel, the Ocean Endeavour, and our world- renowned expedition team join forces with other adventurers, such as Intrepid’s Polar specialists, Chimu Adventures. Please read the Itinerary Disclaimer in the Essential Trip Information for important details on who you’ll be travelling with and how this will contribute to your expedition experience.
COVID 19 VACCINATION
COVID-19 vaccination is a pre-embarkation requirement for all guests, staff, and crew on all Ocean Endeavour voyages. We will request a copy of your COVID-19 vaccination status on Day 1
ADVENTURE OPTIONS
Approaching a looming glacier in a sea kayak, strapping on snowshoes to reach the best icy viewpoints, capturing the perfect photo of a seal hunting its prey or camping under an Antarctic perpetual twilight – these are just some of the ways you can enrich your exploration of the great White Continent with our additional activities. A range of Paid Adventure Options is available on the Ocean Endeavour, on selected voyages, subject to availability. Your booking agent can assist with availability and pricing.
• Kayaking or Photography Program - Voyage-duration program available on all voyages. Pre-book via your booking agent.
• Day Paddle or Stand Up Paddleboarding- One-off excursion available on all voyages. Pre-book via your booking agent. Additional spaces may be available to book on board via the Expedition Team
• Camping - One-off excursion available on selected voyages. Pre-book via your booking agent.
• Snowshoeing - One-off excursion available on selected voyages. Book on board via the Expedition Team.
Want an in-depth insight into this trip? Essential Trip Information provides a detailed itinerary, visa info, how to get to your hotel, what's included - pretty much everything you need to know about this adventure and more.
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