Best of Antarctica: Whale Discovery (Ocean Endeavour)

12 Days
From CAD 7,791 Was CAD 11,130
Best Rate
Guarantee
Trip Type
Group Tour
Activity Level
Light

Rating


(2 reviews)

Experience Overview

All aboard – the journey of a lifetime awaits. Set sail towards the Antarctic Peninsula, where whales gather in their largest numbers, on this extended 12-day journey designed especially for wildlife-lovers and epic adventurers. Follow the migration paths of these gigantic sea creatures and spot seals, penguins and seabirds along the way. Explore the frozen wilderness from the deck of the Ocean Endeavour and from our fleet of up-close-and-personal Zodiacs, scanning for underwater silhouettes. Take an optional expedition by day paddle or choose a photography lesson on the White Continent from an expert. Among electric blue glaciers, this by-sea adventure provides the best opportunity for whale-spotting and once-in-a-lifetime exploration.

Highlights

  • Witness an incredible abundance of humpback whales, as these marine mammals migrate south to feed on krill. Take daily Zodiac excursions to get closer to the whales, when spotted by your Expedition Team.
  • Admire the breathtaking scenery and wildlife that surrounds you, such as Gentoo and chinstrap penguins, fur seals, albatross and so much more, backed by imposing icebergs and glaciated mountains.
  • Personalise your expedition with a wide range of optional adventure activities. Kayak among icebergs, day paddle with expert guides or take photography lessons from a pro.
  • Keep learning with onboard educational lectures on history, geology and ecology, and participate in our Citizen Science Program, all led by our expert Expedition Team.
  • Defrost from the day and reflect on your epic adventure aboard the Ocean Endeavour, with amenities like the Aurora lounge, sun deck, Polaris Restaurant, bar, library, saltwater pool, jacuzzi, gym, day spa and sauna.

Trip Details

Product CodeProduct Code: 2054

Tour TypeTour Type: Group Tour

AccommodationAccommodation: Comfortable

TransportTransport: Expedition cruise ship,zodiac

Guide LanguageGuide Language: English

Supplier CodeSupplier Code: GQMDJ

StartStarts: Ushuaia, Antarctica

FinishFinishes: Disembarkation in Ushuaia, Argentina, Antarctica

DurationDuration: 12 days

DeparturesDepartures: Guaranteed

Physical RatingPhysical rating: Light

Includes

Meals: Breakfasts (11), Lunch (9), Dinner (10)
Accommodation: Comfortable hotel (1 night),Expedition cruise ship (10 nights)

Price

Price per person: (Double Occupancy) CAD 7791 (CAD 649 /day)

Itinerary

1
Day 1: Ushuaia

Welcome to Ushuaia, Argentina – the gateway to Antarctica. Before you embark on this epic journey, take an included transfer from the airport to your hotel. Tonight, you’ll meet your fellow travellers and Expedition Team in Ushuaia with a welcome meeting at 6 pm. If you arrive early, why not head downtown for some souvenir shopping or taste some classic Argentinian flavours at one of Ushuaia’s fantastic local restaurants? If you get the chance, watching the sun go down at 'The End of the World' (the nickname for the Tierra del Fuego archipelago) is the perfect way to cap off your first night.

Accommodation:

  • Comfortable Hotel (Number of Nights: 1)

2
Day 2: Embarkation in Ushuaia, Argentina

This morning is yours to explore Ushuaia. You can always ask your Expedition Leader for suggestions, but exploring this remote town on foot makes for a beautiful start to the day. Ushuaia offers enough stunning scenery for any nature-buff, so make sure you’ve grabbed your camera to snap that snow-capped backdrop. In the afternoon, transfer to the port of Ushuaia where you will board the Ocean Endeavour – your home on the sea for the next 10 nights. After meeting your fellow passengers and Expedition Team and settling into your cabin, you’ll set sail through the historic Beagle Channel towards Antarctica. Soak up incredible views as you glimpse your last sight of Argentina, then head inside to join the excitement and learn more about what to expect over the coming days.

Included Activities:

  • Welcome Briefing

Accommodation:

  • Expedition Cruise Ship (Number of Nights: 1)

3
Day 3-4: At sea, Drake Passage

Spend two days travelling across the legendary waters of the Drake Passage, named after the British seafarer Sir Francis Drake, towards the Antarctic Peninsula and the South Shetland Islands. If conditions allow, there will be a chance to enjoy the outer deck spaces, scouting for dolphins, whales and a variety of seabirds that pass by – including the iconic wandering albatross, with its enormous three-meter wingspan. Our comprehensive lecture program will also get underway for you to join at your leisure, with our team of polar experts sharing fascinating insights into Antarctic history, geology, biology and everything in between! If the weather is on your side, you should reach the Islands of the Antarctic Peninsula by early evening on day four. Make sure you’re on deck for this, as the first sighting of land always builds great anticipation on any expedition south.

Included Activities:

  • Daily Briefings and Recap
  • Onboard Lecture Program
  • Citizen Science Program

Optional Activities:

  • Yoga and Meditation Classes - Free
  • Onboard Spa treatments (various prices apply) starting from (95 USD)
  • Photography Program (1099 USD)
  • Onboard Gym and Sauna - Free

Accommodation:

  • Expedition Cruise Ship (Number of Nights: 2)

4
Day 5-9: South Shetland Islands & Antarctic Peninsula

The Antarctic Peninsula is known for a high number of wildlife sightings, not to mention the stunning backdrop of mountains, icy landscapes and water. The perfect combination, as you search for migrating whales. This is why you have five full days to enjoy wildlife opportunities, both from the expansive outer decks of the Ocean Endeavour and via Zodiac cruises and shore excursions. The peak of the migration season is the best opportunity to see these majestic ocean dwellers, as all Antarctic whale species migrate long distances, feeding in the cold, nutrient-rich Southern Ocean during the southern summer. The most common species found in the region are humpback, Minke and fin whales, as well as orcas. An average day on board begins with a wake-up call from your Expedition Leader around 7 am, giving you time to prepare for the day before joining your fellow expeditioners for breakfast in the Polaris restaurant. You will usually have two excursions per day, one in the morning and one in the afternoon, with lunch served on the Ocean Endeavour in between excursions. As whale season is in full swing, you may like to participate in one of our exciting onboard Citizen Science projects – the Happy Whale Project, where you can upload photos of whale’s tails (called flukes) online, along with details of where the images are taken. These are used to analyse and identify the individual whales and track their movement across the oceans. Sightings can happen from the outer decks of the ship, on the ship’s bridge with your Captain or during a Zodiac excursion. Our open bridge policy allows you into the command centre of the Ocean Endeavour for the ultimate behind-the-scenes access and the best place to spot whales. You will also have the daily opportunity for optional adventure activities, including kayaking or day paddle excursions through ice floes, or photography sessions and workshops led by our expert photography guides.

Included Activities:

  • Zodiac Excursion/Cruising
  • Guided walking Excursions
  • Citizen Science Program
  • Daily Briefings and Recap
  • Onboard Lecture Program

Optional Activities:

  • Stand Up Paddleboarding (299 USD)
  • Day Paddle (299 USD)
  • Polar Plunge - Free
  • Kayaking Program (1099 USD)
  • Yoga and Meditation Classes - Free
  • Onboard Spa treatments (various prices apply) starting from (95 USD)
  • Photography Program (1099 USD)
  • Onboard Gym and Sauna - Free

Accommodation:

  • Expedition Cruise Ship (Number of Nights: 5)

5
Day 10-11: At Sea, Drake Passage

As the Ocean Endeavour starts its return journey north to our home port of Ushuaia, now is the time to reflect on your amazing adventure. We’re scheduled to reach the relatively calm waters of the Beagle Channel by the evening of day 11. This evening, your final meal together in the Polaris restaurant is often a highlight, so make sure to live it up and enjoy the moment as you celebrate an incredible adventure with your fellow travellers and Expedition Team. Don’t forget the group selfie!

Included Activities:

  • Daily Briefings and Recap
  • Onboard Lecture Program
  • Citizen Science Program

Optional Activities:

  • Onboard Gym and Sauna - Free
  • Yoga and Meditation Classes - Free
  • Onboard Spa treatments (various prices apply) starting from (95 USD)
  • Photography Program (1099 USD)

Accommodation:

  • Expedition Cruise Ship (Number of Nights: 2)

6
Day 12: Disembarkation in Ushuaia, Argentina

Disembark the Ocean Endeavour after breakfast as your Antarctic expedition comes to an end and the memories of an amazing experience begin. A transfer to Ushuaia airport or downtown is included if you’re departing today.

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Tour Operator

Intrepid Travel

Intrepid Travel is a global adventure travel company, dedicated to providing sustainable, experience-rich travel opportunities. They’ve been the leader in ethical, small-group travel since 1989 - taking people around the world for more than 30 years. They’re the world’s largest travel B Corporation - dedicated to being the best travel company for the world. In 2002, they established The Intrepid Foundation so their travellers could make a lasting impact on the communities they had visited. Although Intrepid Travel absorbs all administrative costs of The Intrepid Foundation, they are separate legal entities, allowing The Intrepid Foundation to grow independently. Intrepid Travel is made up of a collection of tour operator brands and 28 destination management companies all united by one vision: To change the way we all see the world.

In Business Since 1989

Reviews

 

Ruth   -  Traveled, May 2024

Amazing adventure! I enjoyed the stay at the estancia and was blown away by Iguaçu falls. Our leader Gus is a well organized person. He has the ability to make you feel welcome and at ease right away. He is very encouraging and patient, sometimes answering the same question 8 times in the same hour.

Source: Tour operator   Submitted: 05/14/2024

 

Richard   -  Traveled, March 2024

Loved the tour with Iguazu Falls being the highlight. Ipanema Beach was our favourite and enjoyed being buffeted by the waves. Our guide Javier did a really good job and the whole group was very appreciative of his efforts. Also got to see the resting place of Evita and Christ the Redeemer close up!

Source: Tour operator   Submitted: 05/10/2024

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