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Explore two wildlife hotspots in the coldest place on earth

Explore Antarctica’s most wildlife-heavy landing sites on this 18-day expedition cruise on board the state-of-the-art Ocean Endeavour. See penguin colonies and seals aplenty in the bays of South Georgia and set off on Zodiac excursions between the massive icebergs of the Antarctic Peninsula in search of whale pods and seabird nesting spots. With optional activities like kayaking off the ship and onboard yoga, this is a comfortable journey that doesn’t skimp on adventure.

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

Why you'll love this trip

  • Wildlife seekers rejoice – the land and waters of South Georgia and the Antarctic Peninsula are home to penguins, seals, whales and more.

  • Towering icebergs, blue glaciers, rugged islands, white mountains, abundant and curious wildlife – Antarctica is a lifechanging destination.

  • Your expedition is staffed by an expert seafaring crew as well as a team of scientists who specialise in Antarctic marine biology, ornithology, history, geology and more.

  • We carbon-offset all our trips, serve only sustainable seafood, avoid single-use plastics and more to help preserve Antarctica (and the world) for future generations.

  • Rest up after hiking on shore or travelling between icebergs by Zodiac in the comfort of the Ocean Endeavour, where you can do yoga, use the gym, sip cocktails and more.

Is this trip right for you?

  • Although our ice-strengthened ships are big and sturdy, the Antarctic waters can be unpredictable and rough. Some people may experience seasickness, especially through the Drake Passage and other open water crossings, so please be prepared with medications to combat this – we’d hate for you to miss a single minute of this journey. There is also a doctor on board should you need further assistance.

  • Of course, temperatures in the Antarctic can be freezing, but it can get surprisingly warm – when the sun comes out, for instance, or with increased physical activity. It’s best to dress in layers when you journey outside and we’ll provide you with waterproof boots that are sturdy and warm. Please see the Essential Trip Information for notes on what to bring.

  • Depending on the weather, you’ll be zipping around in a Zodiac boat quite regularly to explore the area and search for wildlife. It can get very cold and wet on the Zodiac, 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 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 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 South Shetlands; 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 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.

Map of Highlights of South Georgia and the Antarctic Peninsula including Antarctica, Argentina and South Georgia
Passenger explores antarctic peninsula
Penguins stand on rock in Antarctica
Iceberg, Antarctica
Seal lays on ice in Antarctica
Traveller kayaks in Antarctica
Drakes Passage

Boats

Ocean Endeavour 2021/22 boat on a tour

Ocean Endeavour 2021/22

The Ocean Endeavour is a far cry from the expedition vessels of old and, just quietly, we're tipping it’s the place be in the 2021 Antarctic season.

Boat type
Expedition
Passengers
200
Learn more

Itinerary
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Bienvenidos to Ushuaia, your gateway to the Great White Continent. Your Antarctic adventure begins with a welcome meeting at your accommodation this evening. If you arrive with time to spare before your welcome meeting, maybe take a wander uphill from Avenida San Martin for a great view of the Beagle Channel from the top.
Meals Included
There are no meals included on this day.
Special Information
It’s very important that you attend the welcome meeting 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 where and when the meeting will take place.
An arrival transfer from the airport on Day 1 is included in your voyage fare. Please speak to an Intrepid booking agent to organise this.

Today your voyage begins. Set off and cruise through the Beagle Channel, where it’s possible to spot seals, penguins, cormorants and more from the deck. Settle into your cabin and get to know the expedition team and your fellow travellers.
Meals Included
  • Breakfast
  • Lunch
  • Dinner

Hit the open seas for your passage to South Georgia. You can spend the next few days indulging in the range of activities offered on board and listening to members of your expert crew giving presentations on a variety of topics.
Meals Included
  • Breakfast (3)
  • Lunch (3)
  • Dinner (3)

Make sure you’ve got a seat by a porthole or are out on deck when South Georgia comes into view – the snow-capped mountains are vast and rugged. Over the next few days, you’ll explore a variety of landing sites and areas around South Georgia. While exact excursions can’t be guaranteed due to weather and other conditions, you might find yourself cruising through Drygalski Fjord, watching elephant seals on Gold Harbour or exploring Salisbury Plain.
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.

Spend a few days learning and relaxing at sea, en route to the Antarctic Peninsula. You can join expedition team members on deck to spot wildlife, relax with a book in the library, take a yoga class or watch movies.
Meals Included
  • Breakfast (2)
  • Lunch (2)
  • Dinner (2)

Welcome to the Antarctic Peninsula! Spend the next few days exploring on Zodiac rides and onshore excursions over a number of potential landing sites. No two days on any expedition are the same and landing sites can’t be guaranteed, but our expert expedition crew will make sure each day is memorable. You might see an historical research station in Damoy Point, spot petrels on Cuverville Island or take Zodiac excursions to get close to whales. If you’re interested in kayaking or other optional extras, please see the Special Information field below.
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, snowshoeing 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 some time to reflect on your voyage during the two-day return journey to Ushuaia. This is also your last chance to soak up the experience and knowledge of your expert expedition crew before the end of the trip.
Meals Included
  • Breakfast (2)
  • Lunch (2)
  • Dinner (2)
Special Information
As you’ll be travelling back to Argentina via the Drake Passage, be sure to have any sea sickness medication and/or plans in place before your journey.

Disembark the Ocean Endeavour after breakfast. If you are flying out today, take advantage of an included airport transfer included in the price of your expedition.
Meals Included
  • Breakfast
Special Information
A departure transfer to the airport is included in your voyage fare if you are flying out today. Please speak to an Intrepid booking agent to organise this.

Meals

17 breakfasts, 16 lunches, 16 dinners

Transport

Expedition Cruise Ship, Zodiac

Accommodation

1 night comfortable hotel, 9 nights expedition cruise ship

Dates & availability

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Travel lightly with Intrepid. We’ve offset the main sources of carbon emissions from this trip on your behalf, including transport, accommodation & waste. Read more

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.

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