• Explore an unspoiled wilderness, uninhabited by man, where penguins, seals, whales and seabirds in their abundance are the true rulers.
• Emerging from winter, the density of wildlife is increasing, and penguin rookeries are at full capacity with penguin chicks beginning to hatch from mid-December.
• Seal and whale sightings become more frequent as minke, southern right and humpback whales return to Antarctic waters to feed, ensuring extraordinary wildlife viewing opportunities.
• Enjoy daily Zodiac excursions, onshore landings and take advantage of a range of adventure options during the voyage such as kayaking, camping, photography and snowshoeing.
• Benefit from a variety of onboard activities including educational lectures on history, geology, and ecology by the expedition team.

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. 

Day 1: Ushuaia, Argentina

Day 2: Embarkation in Ushuaia

Days 3-4: At Sea, Drake Passage

Days 5-8: South Shetland Islands & Antarctica Peninsula

Days 9-10: At Sea, Drake Passage

Days 11: Disembarkation in Ushuaia, Argentina

The Ocean Endeavour is comfortable, spacious and the place to be in the Antarctic season. Not only is it one of the few polar expedition ships in Antarctica, it also has one crew member for every eight travellers. This means you’ll enjoy a more personal, informative and comfortable trip. With a gym, library, wide range of cabin types, modern Zodiacs, and superb views, the Ocean Endeavour is quite literally the coolest way to take the trip of a lifetime.

SPECIAL BOOKING CONDITIONS FOR ANTARCTIC TRAVEL

You are required to pay a non-refundable deposit of AUD1500, USD1000, EUR900, NZD1600, GBP800, CAD1300, CHF900 or ZAR17,000 per person per trip for your booking to be confirmed. Full payment is required 95 days prior to departure. For more information, please ask for the tour operator's Booking and Conditions, including the special conditions that apply to Antarctica Voyages (Ocean Endeavour).

COVID 19 VACCINATION
COVID-19 vaccination is a pre-embarkation requirement for all guests, staff, and crew on all Ocean Endeavour voyages. We will request a copy of your COVID-19 vaccination status on Day 1

ADVENTURE OPTIONS
Approaching a looming glacier in a sea kayak, strapping on snowshoes to reach the best icy viewpoints, capturing the perfect photo of a seal hunting its prey or camping under an Antarctic perpetual twilight – these are just some of the ways you can enrich your exploration of the great White Continent with our additional activities. A range of Paid Adventure Options is available on the Ocean Endeavour, on selected voyages, subject to availability. Your booking agent can assist with availability and pricing.

• Kayaking or Photography Program - Voyage-duration program available on all voyages. Pre-book via your booking agent.
• Day Paddle or Stand-Up Paddleboarding- One-off excursion available on all voyages. Pre-book via your booking agent. Additional spaces may be available to book on board via the Expedition Team
• Camping - One-off excursion available on selected voyages. Pre-book via your booking agent.
• Snowshoeing - One-off excursion available on selected voyages. Book on board via the Expedition Team.

Price per person is based on 2 adults sharing and includes:

• 11-day Best of Antarctica: Wildlife Explorer expedition tour onboard Ocean Endeavour
• Meals: 10 breakfasts, 8 lunches, 9 dinners
• Transport: Expedition cruise ship, zodiac
• Accommodation: 1 night comfortable hotel, 9 nights expedition cruise ship
• Activities:
  • Welcome Briefing
  • Citizen Science Program
  • Daily Briefings and Recap
  • Onboard Lecture Program
  • Guided walking Excursions
  • Zodiac Excursion/Cruising

Add on activities:

• Yoga and Meditation Classes - Free
• Onboard Spa treatments (various prices apply) starting from - USD95
• Photography Program - USD1099
• Onboard Gym and Sauna - Free
• Stand Up Paddleboarding - USD299
• Kayaking Program - USD1099
• Polar Plunge - Free
• Day Paddle - USD299
• Camping - USD399
• Snowshoeing - USD150

Please ask us about:

• Flights from your chosen Irish airport
• Travel Insurance
• Group rates

Subject to availability. Terms & conditions apply. 

For more information please call us on 021 427 7094 or 01 696 5135, email info@shandontravel.ie, request a call back, or submit an enquiry through the form below.