Best of Antarctica: Pristine Wilderness

Experience the untouched splendor of Antarctica's pristine landscapes during an 11-day journey to the Antarctic Peninsula. Witness the pure beauty of this icy realm as the thawing sea ice unveils an unspoiled wilderness. Capture breathtaking moments as you explore by zodiac, seeking out majestic whales, seals, seabirds, and stunning icebergs showcasing shades of snow white and deep aquamarine. Observe penguins vying for nesting spots amidst pebble squabbles and keep a lookout for Leopard seals on drifting ice. Glide through fractured ice aboard the Ocean Endeavour, possibly venturing into the narrow, towering Lemaire Channel. As we journey southward, join us on the bow to immerse yourself in the pristine snowscapes of Antarctica, following its inhabitants deeper into the untouched wilderness.

11 Day Antarctica Itinerary

Day 1: Ushuaia, Argentina

Your journey commences in Ushuaia, Argentina. Upon your arrival at the airport, you'll be greeted by a representative holding a sign displaying the name of your ship. In the event you're unable to locate them, consult your final itinerary for contact details. Situated within the Tierra del Fuego archipelago, Ushuaia offers an array of shops, museums, restaurants, and cafes to explore before embarking on your voyage. Serving as an ideal starting point, this Argentine town allows you to delve into the southern reaches of Patagonia while gearing up for the adventures ahead. For those seeking excitement, the nearby Tierra del Fuego National Park provides ample opportunities for outdoor pursuits.

Day 2: Embarkation In Ushuaia

After boarding the Ocean Endeavour in the late afternoon, your Antarctic expedition commences as you head southward, traversing the renowned Beagle Channel. Named in honor of the historic vessel associated with Charles Darwin's expedition, this channel offers splendid chances for capturing scenic landscapes and observing seabirds.

Day 3 & 4: At Sea, Drake Passage

The notorious Drake Passage is known for its untamed and unpredictable nature. Take in the invigorating breeze on one of the Ocean Endeavour's numerous outer decks as you experience the winds of the roaring forties and furious fifties – waters that remain untamed even by the boldest of adventurers. Throughout the journey, the Expedition Team will provide insights into upcoming adventures and deliver educational lectures covering a range of topics from history and geology to photography and ornithology.

Over the course of these two days at sea, you'll have ample opportunities to observe a plethora of seabirds crossing the Southern Ocean. If weather and sea conditions permit, the first sighting of land will occur on day four.

Day 5, 6, 7 & 8: South Shetland Islands & Antarctica

This marks the true commencement of your Antarctic escapades. As the South Shetland Islands emerge on the horizon, a region steeped in allure for explorers throughout history, both the Expedition Team and Captain will be on the lookout for whales and seabirds, promptly alerting you to any new sightings. Delve deeper into the intricacies of the region's glaciology, history, and wildlife through comprehensive explanations and additional lectures during the exploration.

The anticipation escalates with your inaugural land excursion. Daily Zodiac cruises and shore excursions lead you to discover local bays, channels, and landing sites, with wildlife encounters taking precedence in the Expedition Team's plans. Wander along beaches adorned with penguins, visit bustling penguin rookeries, and seek out various southern seal species, including the formidable Leopard seal.

Every day and each landing offer a unique experience, presenting fresh photo opportunities and wildlife sightings. Distinguishing between Adelie, Gentoo, and Chinstrap penguins becomes second nature in no time.

One day, you might trek to a penguin rookery, while the next, you could embark on a Zodiac cruise amidst towering icebergs. Whether you're locking eyes with a Humpback whale or marveling at the thunderous roar of a calving glacier, each dawn brings renewed excitement and a yearning to explore this frozen realm.

For those seeking extra thrills, options abound. Consider indulging in an overnight ice camping adventure on land, embarking on a snowshoeing expedition to venture farther afield, or taking to the water for a day paddle excursion, offering a more intimate encounter with Antarctica.

A typical day onboard kicks off with a wake-up call from your Expedition Leader around 7 am, allowing ample time to prepare for the day ahead before joining fellow expeditioners for breakfast in the Polaris restaurant. Usually, you'll partake in two excursions daily, one in the morning and one in the afternoon, punctuated by a delectable lunch served aboard the Ocean Endeavour between outings.

Day 9 & 10: At Sea, Drake Passage

As you journey back across the Drake Passage, seize this last chance to relish the Antarctic atmosphere. Take advantage of the open decks to search for whales, observe seabirds, or attend a presentation led by your Expedition Team. Reflect on the unforgettable moments you've shared with your fellow passengers as you bid farewell to the extraordinary realm of Antarctica.

Day 11: Disembarkation In Ushuaia, Argentina

As your Antarctic expedition comes to an end, you'll disembark the Ocean Endeavour after enjoying breakfast. Bid farewell to your fellow travelers and the Expedition Team, then join a transfer to the Ushuaia airport for your onward journey (included for selected flight departures today) or to the city center of Ushuaia if you're extending your stay. In Ushuaia, you have the opportunity to delve deeper into this captivating region, with attractions like the Museo Maritimo, Avenida San Martin, or even an adventurous hike to the Martial Glacier awaiting exploration. If you wish to extend your stay in Ushuaia, kindly liaise with your booking agent.

Please be aware that a transfer to the city center after disembarkation or to the airport for onward flights (only for selected departures today) is included. If you're extending your stay or don't meet the criteria for the included transfers, additional transportation can be arranged at an extra cost; please discuss this with your booking agent.

It's advisable not to schedule a flight out of Ushuaia before midday on disembarkation day due to potential delays caused by unfavorable weather conditions.

Please note that the cruise itinerary is subject to change based on factors such as weather conditions, ice conditions, and other unforeseen circumstances.

11 Day Antarctica Itinerary Includes

All meals onboard the Ocean Endeavour including snacks

Onboard lecture program from expedition staff and naturalists

All shore excursions and zodiac cruising (except optional activities with cost)

Use of rubber boots on land and use of waterproof outer shell jacket

Insulated inner jacket, yours to keep at the end of the Cruise

Transfer from airport to hotel (Day 1) and pre-night hotel accommodation with breakfast

Transfer from hotel accommodation to the Ocean Endeavour for embarkation

Transfers to airport on return to port

All port taxes

Use of gym, sauna, pool and on-board jacuzzi and onboard yoga

11 Day Antarctica Itinerary Does not Include

International or internal flights unless specified

Airport transfers, taxes and excess baggage charges unless specified

Meals other than those specified in the pre-departure information

Visa and passport fees

Travel insurance

Optional activities and all personal expenses

Tobacco, alcoholic or special beverages

Miscellaneous extras

Laundry and communication charges aboard

Medical care

Life jackets, waterproof outer shell jacket, insulated inner jacket and boots for minors under 16 years of age at time of travel

Waterproof outer shell jacket and insulated inner jacket for guests who require sizing larger than 3XL

Boots for guests who require sizing larger than men’s size 14 boots

Gratuities for crew and expedition staf

11 Day Antarctica Itinerary Highlights

Navigate through Antarctic waters, encountering majestic whales, seals, and seabirds.

Witness stunning ice formations displaying shades of snow white and deep aquamarine.

Observe penguins engaging in nesting rituals amidst captivating pebble squabbles.

Glide through narrow, towering passages, possibly spotting Leopard seals on drifting ice.

Immerse yourself in untouched snowscapes, following Antarctica's inhabitants deeper into the wilderness.

11 Day Antarctica cruise activities

Under full instruction from your sea kayaking guide, experience true tranquillity as you paddle through clinking ice floes and realise the enormity of the surrounding scenery. Look out for breaching whales, lounging seals and penguins zipping alongside your kayak. Some experience is required.

Camp out on the ice and experience the silence which blankets the continent by night. This is your chance to completely connect with this ethereal ice world – wrap up warm and embrace the Antarctic elements.

Get a spring in your step when you slip on a pair of snowshoes in Antarctica. Enabling you to easily scale gentle slopes, this unique activity allows you to access hard to reach places and seek out the most impressive views.

Learn to capture wildlife and landscape shots in a small group photography program, including critiquing sessions and editing classes. Plus, Explorer Boat excursions with a dedicated photography expert on landings.

Achieve the best views and photographs from a forward facing Explorer Boats. They allow you to sit comfortably and securely while crackling through the ice-strewn waters. Look out for wildlife such as penguins, seals and whales as you cruise.

It doesn’t get more serene than complimentary yoga classes to the tune of glacial scenery. Join the most unique exercise setting in the world after a day of exploration. Classes are regular but are dependent on weather conditions and swell.