1-800-935-2620 Speak to a Tour Expert

Ultimate Antarctica: Falklands, South Georgia & the Antarctic Circle (Ocean Endeavour)

Operator
Intrepid
Days
23
From
USD $17,055

Dates & Prices

Start Date End Date OffersBrochure
Land Price
Our PriceQuote
From
Sunday,
Jan 05, 2025
To
Monday,
Jan 27, 2025
Deals$17,055Get Our PriceGet Quote

Promotions

Call or submit a quote for award-winning value and service!

Itinerary

Book With Flexibility

  • Peace of Mind
    Avoid fees and frustration with cancellations up to 56 days before departure on select eligible trips and easy deposit transfer.
  • Change Destination / Vacation
    Change to a different destination or vacation.
  • Change Dates
    Choose new departure dates if your plans change.
  • Great Service
    Award-winning service, low prices, client satisfaction

Tour Itinerary

Discover all that Antarctica has to offer on this epic 23-day expedition that explores the Falkland Islands, South Georgia islands and the Antarctic peninsula, including crossing the rarely seen Antarctic Circle! Explore 'The End of the World' on the longest Antarctica trip available - a voyage of discovery aboard the Ocean Endeavour, where you'll marvel at spectacularly rugged landscapes, thousands of king penguins and the abundant wildlife meccas of the south. Glide through ice floes in a Zodiac with your Expedition Team and take part in fascinating educational presentations. Keep your eye out for predatory seals, wandering albatross and migrating whales as you pass by towering ice-blue glaciers and icebergs. Round this unforgettable adventure off by reaching latitude 66°33'S, as you cross the fabled Antarctic Circle. With optional adventures like camping on the ice (there's no better spot to experience the sound of silence), day paddling across icy waters and expert photography workshops, this journey of discovery and mateship is sure to be the trip of a lifetime.

  1. Day 1
    Ushuaia, Argentina
    Welcome to Ushuaia, Argentina – the gateway to the Great White Continent and the world’s southernmost city. Once you arrive at your hotel, you’re free to explore. Tonight, you’ll have the option to meet your fellow travellers for an optional icebreaker. If you have some spare time, maybe head downtown for some early souvenir shopping or taste some classic Argentinian flavours at one of the local restaurants. Ushuaia is affectionately known as ‘The End of the World’, so you can really soak up that unforgettable I’m-so-far-from-home moment among the impressive backdrop of snow-capped mountains. If you meet some fellow travellers along the way, why not hit a cosy dinner spot or local bar and theorise on what your upcoming adventure may hold?
  2. Day 2
    Embarkation in Ushuaia, Argentina
    After breakfast, the morning is yours to explore windswept Ushuaia. Stroll through the quaint town with a camera or grab a last-minute necessity (you haven’t forgotten your waterproof pants and gloves, have you?) In the afternoon, you’ll transfer to the port of Ushuaia and hop aboard the Ocean Endeavour – your home on the sea for the next 22 days. After greeting your fellow passengers and Expedition Team and settling into your cabin, set sail through the historic Beagle Channel towards Antarctica. Find the perfect spot to soak up the incredible views, as you catch your last sight of Argentina – then, head inside to join the excitement and learn more about what’s to come on this Antarctic adventure. This evening is a great opportunity to explore the ship (and its amenities) and enjoy a delicious dinner at Polaris restaurant with your new crew.
    Meals:   Breakfast   Dinner
  3. Day 3
    At Sea
    With nothing but you and the blue horizon for the next couple of days, your time at sea is the perfect chance to take advantage of all the amenities and activities on board. Spot seabirds from the sundeck, lounge in the day spa and sauna, keep warm in the gym and jacuzzi or study up in the Polar library. There will also be a series of lectures and presentations throughout the days aboard, so you can really sink your teeth into the local geography, environment and wildlife. Prepare for your expedition by attending comprehensive presentations from the Expedition Team, which highlight the dramatic history of upcoming spots, as well as the potential wildlife sightings that may await you. Up on deck, keep an eye out for wandering albatross on their migration route, as well as breaching whales and other mighty mammals. In the evenings, cosy up with a drink at the bar and get to know your shipmates.
    Meals:   Breakfast   Dinner
  4. Day 4
    Falkland Islands
    This morning, you’ll approach The Falklands – a wildlife photographer’s dream. Here, you can find the largest black-browed albatross colony in the world, as well as five species of penguins who breed on the islands (including gentoo, king, macaroni, Magellanic and rockhopper). As you approach the ruggedly beautiful archipelago, keep the camera ready to capture not only the abundant wildlife, but also the breathtaking scenery. East Falkland and West Falkland have so much to offer and provide a rare opportunity to witness the biological diversity, extraordinary landscapes and rich history of the southern islands. Learn about the intriguing and controversial past of the Falkland Islands from local experts, as you explore the quaint capital of Stanley. Near the town, you may see southern giant petrels, Falkland steamer ducks, kelp gulls, dolphin gulls, black-crowned night herons, red-backed hawks, peregrine falcons and turkey vultures! A spot of birdwatching, anyone? Witness an ever-changing horizon, with wetlands, lakes and rolling peaks waiting to be trekked. Weather permitting, you may explore Saunders Island, the second-largest island in the Falklands, and The Neck, a narrow peninsula with sandy beaches and subtle cliff faces. The rookery stretches along the northern slopes of Saunders Island and is one of the largest black-browed albatross nesting colonies in the area. This is where the mighty birds nest in the cliffs, around October, with their chicks hatching about ten weeks later.
    Meals:   Breakfast   Dinner
  5. Day 6
    At Sea
    Farewell the Falkland Islands and sail towards South Georgia. From the history and geology to the incredible wildlife, this next stop has a lot to offer. South Georgia Island is known for its thousands of nesting penguins, leopard seals, snow-capped peaks and otherworldly landscapes. From the cosy innards of the ship, you can engage in a few presentations to prepare for your next stop. From the outer decks, scan the horizon for seabirds and other passing wildlife. Why not take this opportunity to hit the jacuzzi or day spa for a bit of wellness action, too?
    Meals:   Breakfast   Dinner
  6. Day 8
    South Georgia
    Over the next few days, you’ll explore the island of South Georgia, once the homestead of whalers and isolated explorers – now, a protected site with dedicated Antarctic research teams. You’ll explore a variety of different landing sites and learn about the history of Sir Ernest Shackleton, known for his incredible survival during a failed expedition south. Shackleton led the British Imperial Trans-Antarctic Expedition between 1914 and 1916 and planned to cross Antarctica from a base on the Weddell Sea to McMurdo Sound, via the South Pole with his crew. However, Endurance became trapped in ice off the Caird Coast and eventually sank, which began this epic story of survival. Through months of hard trekking, improvising and incredible leadership, Shackleton and all his men survived. It’s on these very shores in South Georgia that Shackleton landed his crew of the James Caird, in search of help for the rest of his party, who were stranded back on Elephant Island. You’ll spend several days retracing some of Shackleton’s steps, as well as visiting his grave at the ex-whaling station of Grytviken, located on the east side. Wander among hundreds of thousands of king penguins in the dramatic South Georgian light, visit old whaling stations and enjoy educational presentations on the then and now of the area. Across the island, you’ll see dark volcanic beaches backgrounded by hanging glaciers and have the chance for day hikes among alpine lakes. Optional activities like day paddling, kayaking and expert photography lessons may be available, too.
    Meals:   Breakfast   Dinner
  7. Day 12
    At Sea
    During your next couple of days at sea, take in the stunning panoramic views from the observation lounge or the spacious decks and make the most of the onboard facilities. Whether you’re looking for a quiet place to reflect, or somebody to help you edit your photos of the penguin colonies, the Ocean Endeavour has something for you. Rejuvenate mind and body with one of the invigorating ‘floe’ yoga and meditation classes or indulge in a massage or facial at the day spa. You may want to take this opportunity to relax and recharge or play a few (hundred) games of cards at the bar with your shipmates. Whatever takes your fancy – the ship is yours to explore.
    Meals:   Breakfast   Dinner
  8. Day 14
    South Shetland Islands & Antarctic Peninsula
    Today, you’ll voyage south towards continental Antarctica. An average day on board begins with a wake-up call from your Expedition Leader at around 7 am. This gives you time to get ready before joining your fellow expeditioners for breakfast. Usually, you’ll have two excursions per day – in the morning and the afternoon, with lunch served on the Ocean Endeavour in between. For the next five days, you’ll dedicate your time to searching for wildlife, both from land and from Zodiacs for smaller-group sails. Soak up the unforgettable vistas at every turn and take every opportunity that awaits you. With multiple landing sites available, your Expedition Team will work out the best places to stop, taking into account the wild-and-woolly elements, accessibility options and any wildlife sighting possibilities. There may also be the chance for snowshoeing, day paddle excursions and camping adventures, which are all weather and timing dependent.
    Meals:   Breakfast   Dinner
  9. Day 19
    Antarctic Circle
    Venturing to the ends of the earth is a moment to revel in, as not all expeditions venture this far south. If weather conditions permit, a celebration will be in order after reaching latitude 66°33’S and crossing the fabled Antarctic Circle. Toast to the sheer rawness of the surroundings and take it all in! While not a typical landing, the crossing of the Antarctic Circle leaves a lasting memory. You’ll travel past colossal icebergs, to a point only a few travellers have ever sailed. Here in the Antarctic Circle, you may see Weddell seals, specially adapted to this icy environment. They use their canines and incisors to rasp open new ice, using the holes to breathe. They also have extremely accurate powers of navigation, to seek out breathing holes when their teeth are worn down and they are no longer able to maintain or create holes in the ice.
    Meals:   Breakfast   Dinner
  10. Day 21
    At sea, Drake Passage
    Settle back into your comfortable surroundings aboard for the return journey across the Drake Passage. The Ocean Endeavour will track north towards Cape Horn and your destination in Ushuaia, Argentina. During this time, you can attend more onboard lectures and enjoy a slideshow of images captured by our Expedition photographer during your voyage – yours as a memento of your epic Antarctic expedition. These are sure to make your nature snaps the best they can be. Now is also the chance to catch up with your shipmates and share stories about your voyage over a meal or a drink at the bar.
    Meals:   Breakfast   Dinner
  11. Day 23
    Disembarkation in Ushuaia, Argentina
    This morning, you’ll say goodbye to the Ocean Endeavour and disembark in Ushuaia. A morning transfer to Ushuaia airport or downtown is included if you are departing today. With much to see and do in Ushuaia, including the Museo Maritimo, Avenida San Martin or even an adventurous hike to the Martial Glacier, your adventure doesn’t have to end here. If you would like to spend more time in Ushuaia, just speak to your booking agent.
    Meals:   Breakfast

OR Call Us For a Free Quote 1-800-935-2620

Inclusions

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

Meals
22 Breakfast(s) Included
20 Lunch(es) Included
21 Dinner(s) Included

Style: Comfort

OR Call Us For a Free Quote 1-800-935-2620

Accommodations

Comfortable Hotel (1 night), Expedition Cruise Ship (21 nights)

OR Call Us For a Free Quote 1-800-935-2620

Questions & Answers

Question: How many suitcases can I take with me on my trip?

Each person is allowed one "check-in," and one "carry-on." Remember to take all valuables with you as "carry-on", because electronic equipment, cameras, laptops, jewelry, business documents and money are not covered by the airlines' liability, so always carry them aboard with you.

Question: Is Airfare Included in the Price?

Airfare from your point of origin to and from the trip is not included in the land price.

Intrepid Tours Customer Reviews

Overall Rating
4
Accommodations
3.6
Itinerary
4.2
Professional Staff
4.4
Repeat with Operator
4.1
Value for Money
3.7

Ratings based off 210 reviews about Intrepid Tours - currently showing 9 reviews with comments only

Intrepid is awesome. Our guide was superb. Everything went smoothly!

Our tour guide was wonderful. She was knowledgeable, fun, energetic, and made our week run very smoothly. The trip itself was fantastic! We saw a lot and the islands are absolutely beautiful. Great food, great new friends made on the tour, and would absolutely book with Intrepid again.

Intrepid tour is great company. Will use this company again.

The trip was both both educational and exciting. I very much enjoyed the sights and culture.

The itinerary was just as I expected! The guide was very good as were the accomodations

Intrepid did such a great job. I never had to worry about where I was supposed to be and it felt so good not to worry about a thing but just to enjoy myself. Our guide was extremely knowledgeable about culture and history.

Taiwan people very friendly. Accommodation were centrally located and easily accessible. Did extra activities then in brochure which was greatly.

Larus our tour guide did an excellent job and was very attentive to our needs. He is very knowledgeable and has a great sense of humor.

Our guide Tarang chandola was exceptional. Courteous, knowledgeable, organized, polite, professional and went above and beyond taking care of our needs and requests offen anticipating what that might be. He made sure we all had the best possible time and offered suggestions to meet the needs of everyone on the tour. This made the trip even more enjoyable.

You May Also Like


AffordableTours.com® does not itself offer, service or administer the Travel Packages, and the ultimate terms and conditions of any Travel Package made available via the Site Offerings (including the prices quoted in connection with same) will be determined by the applicable Third-Party Travel Service Provider. AffordableTours.com® does not represent or warrant that the Price Quotes are accurate, up-to-date or free of error, or that same will be honored by the applicable Third-Party Travel Service Providers. All Price Quotes, Travel Package availability, Travel Package details/itinerary and other Content are subject to change without notice. All travel details published by and through the Site Offerings should be confirmed directly with the applicable Third-Party Travel Service Provider prior to making any travel plans. Reliance on any information made available to you by and through the Site Offerings is solely at your own risk.

Call Us Now 1-800-935-2620

How It Works

Vacationing has never been easier or cheaper with the help of a dedicated travel consultant from AffordableTours.com

Freq Quote 1. Free Quote

Find your perfect trip on our website and simply request a free quote. Need to speak to a live person? Call us 7 days a week at 1-800-935-2620. No robots here!

Dedicated Travel Consultant 2. Dedicated Travel Consultant

Your personal travel consultant will reach out and be your point of contact for your entire travel experience from start to finish. Did we mention you'll be working with an award winning team? Sweet!

Low Price Guaranteed 3. Lowest Price Guaranteed

Because we're one of the largest sellers of travel, we're able to give you a discount on your vacation package. No one beats our prices!

Stress Free Travel 4. Stress Free Travel

Knowing you got the best deal, all that's left is for you to pack your bags and enjoy your vacation!


Better Business Bureau

AffordableTours.com is a proud recipient of the Better Business Bureau (BBB) awards 2006-2022 with A+ Rating.

It Pays To Refer! Earn Up To $200!

It's simple: Sign up your friends, family, and anyone to us and when they book you will receive an American Express gift card worth up to $200 in the mail for simply referring.

Read About Our Referral Program


Get discounts by Email!