Map of Shackleton's Falklands, South Georgia and Antarctica Expedition (Ocean Endeavour)  including Antarctica, Argentina and Falkland Islands (malvinas)

Sail through the Falklands, South Georgia and Antarctica, following the footsteps of explorer Ernest Shackleton

Follow the history of epic survivalist Sir Ernest Shackleton and uncover the secrets of Antarctica, on this three-week voyage to South Georgia and the Falkland Islands. Calling all wildlife, photography and history buffs – this journey of discovery aboard the Ocean Endeavour promises a rugged landscape that few have experienced. Marvel at spectacular scenery, walk with thousands of king penguins, spot seals and albatross in the wild and look out for the mightiest of mammals – the humpback whale – as you scan the horizon from land and sea. Glide through ice floes in a Zodiac with expert guides among Antarctica’s towering icebergs and majestic glaciers. With optional adventures including camping, kayaking and photography workshops, this journey of discovery will be etched in your memory (and heart) forever.


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

Why you'll love this trip

  • Wander the quaint British town of Stanley in the Falklands and explore the charming island farmsteads that teem with nesting seabirds – including many albatross and penguin species.

  • Marvel at breathtaking polar scenery and witness the enormous king penguin colonies of South Georgia, where you’ll learn more about Sir Ernest Shackleton’s history and visit his grave.

  • See the magnificent surrounds a little closer on daily Zodiac excursions and personalise your trip with our wide range of paid adventures – including kayaking, day paddling and camping.

  • Explore the local famous sites, towering glaciers and abundant penguin colonies of the Antarctic Peninsula and South Shetland Islands. Don’t forget to keep your eyes peeled for whales.

  • Benefit from onboard educational lectures on history, geology and ecology and participate in our Citizen Science Program – led by our expert Expedition Team.

Is this trip right for you?

  • 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

Ocean Endeavour sailing

Ocean Endeavour

The Ocean Endeavour is a comfortable and spacious ship with a gym, library and wide range of cabin types.

Itinerary

Welcome to Puerto Madryn, Argentina! Your journey begins in northern Patagonia, on a sandy coast known for its abundant marine wildlife. You can arrive at any time today. Transfer to your hotel, settle in and enjoy some free time at ‘the gateway to the Peninsula Valdes’. Explore the town, try one of the local Argentinian delicacies or take a seat on the coast and stare out to sea. You are free as an albatross until the optional icebreaker meeting this evening. After your briefing, maybe get together with a few of your fellow travellers for dinner at a local restaurant, where you can theorise on what’s to come on your upcoming Antarctic adventure.
Accommodation
  • Comfortable hotel (1 night)
Meals Included
There are no meals included on this day.
Special Information
An arrival transfer from the airport on Day 1 is included in your voyage fare.
Today, you’ll hop aboard the Ocean Endeavour – your home for the next 20 days. Set sail towards the Falkland Islands, where your journey in Shackleton’s footsteps begins. Sir Ernest Shackleton is known as one of the greatest polar explorers, with one of the best survival stories that has ever touched the Antarctic (or the world). Shackleton led the British Imperial Trans-Antarctic Expedition between 1914 and 1916, planning to cross Antarctica from a base on the Weddell Sea towards McMurdo Sound, via the South Pole. Unfortunately, their ship Endurance became trapped in ice off the Caird Coast, and this began the epic story of survival for Shackleton and his men – all of whom survived due to the skill, optimism and extraordinary leadership of their team and Captain.
Accommodation
  • Expedition Cruise Ship (1 night)
Meals Included
  • Breakfast
  • Dinner
With nothing but you and the big blue for the next couple of days, take advantage of all the amenities and activities on board your fully equipped expedition vessel. Brush up on your history in the library, relax in the spa and sauna or watch the ice floes pass you by on the sundeck. Look up and you might just spot one of the huge albatrosses along their migration route. Keep your eyes peeled for breaching whales and other marine mammals in the southern oceans and cosy up with a drink while you get to know your shipmates at the bar. There will also be a series of lectures and presentations throughout the day, available to educate you about the local geography, environment and wildlife you can expect along the way. These are a great way to prepare for your expedition, so take it all in while you hear from an expert team that highlight the dramatic history and wildlife encounters that may await you.
Accommodation
  • Expedition Cruise Ship (2 nights)
Meals Included
  • Breakfast (2)
  • Lunch (2)
  • Dinner (2)
Have your camera ready as you approach the ruggedly beautiful Falklands archipelago to capture not only the abundant wildlife, but also the incredible scenery. The two main islands (East Falkland and West Falkland) have much to offer and provide a rare opportunity to witness the biological diversity, extraordinary landscape and history of the southern islands. The Falklands are a wildlife photographer’s dream and have the largest black-browed albatross colony in the world, as well as five species of penguins that breed on the islands. Learn about the intriguing and controversial history of the Falkland Islands as you explore the quaint capital of Stanley. Near the town, you may see southern giant petrels, Falkland steamer ducks, kelp gulls or dolphin gulls (calling all birdwatchers!). There are also black-crowned night herons, red-backed hawks, peregrine falcons and turkey vultures. Witness dramatic landscapes, including wetlands, lakes and some rolling peaks, as you explore the other stunning islands in the archipelago. Weather permitting, this will include Saunders Island, the second largest island in the Falklands. The Neck, which is a narrow peninsula with sandy beaches and subtle cliffs, is home to gentoo, Magellanic, king and rockhopper penguins.
Accommodation
  • Expedition Cruise Ship (2 nights)
Meals Included
  • Breakfast (2)
  • Lunch (2)
  • Dinner (2)
Farewell the Falkland Islands and prepare for what lies ahead in South Georgia – fascinating history, geology and of course – wildlife. From the outer decks, you can scan the horizon for seabirds and underwater silhouettes. You’ll have another chance to attend presentations from the expert team, which highlight the dramatic history of the area, extraordinary marine wildlife encounters and so much more. These days at sea are a great opportunity to swap stories with your fellow expeditioners, whether that be in the jacuzzi or over lunch at Polaris restaurant.
Accommodation
  • Expedition Cruise Ship (2 nights)
Meals Included
  • Breakfast (2)
  • Lunch (2)
  • Dinner (2)
Arrive in South Georgia, where across the island, dark volcanic beaches are backgrounded by hanging glaciers and local penguins nest among tussock grass. Over the next few days, explore the island, once the homestead of whalers and isolated explorers – now, a protected area with dedicated Antarctic research teams. Learn more about Sir Ernest Shackleton’s story on your various excursions to land. It’s on these very shores in South Georgia that Shackleton landed his crew of the James Caird in search of help for his party who were stranded back on Elephant Island. You’ll spend several days retracing Shackleton’s steps, as well as visiting his grave at the ex-whaling station of Grytviken, located on the east side of the island. Wander among hundreds of thousands of king penguins in the dramatic South Georgian light, as you consider the extraordinary feat that was Shackleton’s (and his crew’s) fight for survival. Your Expedition Team will help bring these days to life, with educational presentations, daily excursions and the option of paid activities, like day paddling and photography lessons.
Accommodation
  • Expedition Cruise Ship (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. For a list of possible landing sites in Antarctica, go to intrepidtravel.com/antarctica-landing-sites.

Kayaking and other optional extra excursions must be booked in advance. Additional costs apply and space is limited. Please speak to an Intrepid booking agent for more information.

Beginners interested in kayaking should take an introductory course prior to the voyage, including how to complete a wet exit. Regardless of your experience, we recommend you take part in some kayaking practice prior to the voyage to ensure that you are comfortable on the water in icy conditions. Kayaking adventures are only conducted during calm weather.
Take in panoramic views from the observation lounge and spacious decks or make the most of the onboard facilities during your days at sea. Whether you’re looking for a quiet place to reflect, or somebody to help you edit your photos of the penguin colonies, the Ocean Endeavour has something for you. Rejuvenate mind and body with one of the relaxing wellness facilities onboard. Get the blood pumping at the gym, join a ‘floe’ yoga and meditation class or indulge in a massage or facial at the spa. The ship is yours to explore!
Accommodation
  • Expedition Cruise Ship (2 nights)
Meals Included
  • Breakfast (2)
  • Lunch (2)
  • Dinner (2)
Voyage south towards continental Antarctica. Your days will begin with a wake-up call from your Expedition Leader around 7 am, which gives you time to prepare for the day before joining your fellow expeditioners for breakfast. You’ll usually have two excursions per day – one in the morning and one in the afternoon, with lunch served in between. For the next four days, enjoy copious wildlife, small group outings on the Zodiacs and unforgettable vistas at every turn. With multiple landing sites available, your Ocean Endeavour crew will work out the best places to stop, considering the elements, accessibility and potential for wildlife sightings. There may also be the chance for snowshoeing, sea kayaking or a camping adventure – the paid excursions (which are all weather and time-of-year dependent) can make for some of the greatest memories. Well-known sites like Neko Harbour, Orne Harbour and Kontorp Cove will also be on the Captain’s radar.
Accommodation
  • Expedition Cruise Ship (4 nights)
Meals Included
  • Breakfast (4)
  • Lunch (4)
  • Dinner (4)
Settle back into life at sea as you prepare for the return journey across the Drake Passage. The Ocean Endeavour will track north towards Cape Horn and your destination in Ushuaia, Argentina. During this time, you can attend more onboard lectures and travel talks, and enjoy our voyage slideshow including images taken by our Expedition photographer – yours to enjoy and share after your expedition. Now is also the chance to catch up with your shipmates and share stories about your voyage over a meal or a drink at the bar.
Accommodation
  • Expedition Cruise Ship (2 nights)
Meals Included
  • Breakfast (2)
  • Lunch (2)
  • Dinner (2)
This morning, say goodbye to the Ocean Endeavour as you disembark in Ushuaia. A transfer to the airport or downtown is included in your fare. With much to see and do in this quaint ‘End of the World’ town, including the Museo Maritimo, Avenida San Martin or even an adventurous hike to the Martial Glacier, your adventure doesn’t have to end here. If you would like to spend more time in Ushuaia, just speak to your booking agent.
Meals Included
  • Breakfast

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 Shackleton's Falklands, South Georgia and Antarctica Expedition (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

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)

This trip starts in Puerto Madryn and finishes in Ushuaia

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.

ADVENTURE ADD ONS
Kayaking is available to book on all Antarctic voyages. Some voyages also offer other activities such as camping and snowshoeing. All of these activities must be booked prior to departure and incur an additional cost. Spaces are limited so please enquire at time of booking. For kayaking, previous and recent experience is essential.

PHOTOGRAPHY
Photography workshops are offered as an optional activity on our Ocean Endeavour departures. It is an opportunity for photography enthusiasts of any skill level to fast track their learning on board and make the most of the expert advice that is on offer. Participants will have dedicated Zodiac and photography guided landing where your photography guide will accompany you and give you tips along the way for taking the perfect picture. It is at an additional cost to you and needs to be booked in prior to departure as spaces are limited. If you are interested in taking part, please contact your booking agent for pricing and availability.

Essential trip information

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.

View Essential Trip Information

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