Set sail on a voyage to outshine all others
Discover what it means to be a true Antarctic explorer on a 14-day expedition to the Great White Continent. On board the sophisticated Ocean Endeavour, gain an insight into wildlife spotting, solar eclipse viewing, photo taking and weather watching with a series of lectures and workshops to make the most out of your voyage. On this special voyage you'll also be joined by a special guest – none other than eclipse enthusiast and all-round astrophysics, space exploration and geophysics expert John Mason MBE. Aside from the rugged icy landscapes, once-in-a-lifetime wildlife spotting and immersive Zodiac explorations, gear up for the main event: an early morning viewing of a total solar eclipse, captivating all eyes on the main deck. How could you eclipse that?
Witness a rare total solar eclipse on board the Ocean Endeavour deep in Antarctic oceans. You’ll have onboard experts – including the incredibly enthusiastic and knowledgeable Dr John Mason MBE – to not only explain this natural phenomenon, but also help you snap the perfect shot.
Get up close and personal with Antarctica’s incredible wildlife – Adelie and gentoo penguins, leopard seals, sea birds, whales and so much more will greet you along the way.
Hate looking from afar? With custom Zodiac boats to transport you close to the action and ashore on the Antarctic Peninsula, you’ll be waddling with penguins with all the gear (and some idea).
Discover the sweeping vistas and stunning sunsets of the South Shetland Islands, toasting to your multiple days exploring Antarctic inlets.
Sea days between Ushuaia and Antarctica aren’t just cooped up in a cabin. Get insider info with a series of presentations from expert guides, as well as an expedition vessel decked out with all the mod cons.
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.
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.
Trip departures are unavailable.
There are currently no scheduled departures on our Antarctic Solar Eclipse trip. If you are interested in other trips in the region visit one of the links below.
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, 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.
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
