Antarctica is a dream destination for many people. Imaginable with the stunning nature, amazing wildlife, pure remoteness away from the rest of the world, and the exclusivity of a trip to the Great White Continent. But did you know that few actually make it there? We are here to change that cause we have exciting news: you can now travel to Antarctica with us! For real?! Yes, you can now really go with us on this once-in-a-lifetime expedition! And the good thing is that we arranged an exclusive discount for our followers and readers so it will be much cheaper than normal. Excited to hear more? Read on!
Find cheap flights to Ushuaia here!
The Antarctica Expedition
So we have partnered up with @chimuadventures to arrange this Antarctica expedition. It will be an 11 day trip departing on the 20th of November of this year. The trip will be on the ship The Ocean Endeavour. It is an expedition-focused ship and is truly remarkable and one of the best value for money options for people wanting to go to Antarctica and explore landings and bays.
We’ll be sailing from Ushuaia, Argentina to the Antarctic Peninsula on the expedition ship Ocean Endeavour. Enter a spellbinding world of snow and ice as you voyage to Antarctica, the world’s final frontier – a continent that has lured intrepid explorers for centuries and now draws travellers with a taste for adventure. Set sail aboard the comfortable, spacious and well-appointed Ocean Endeavour for this exclusive 11-day voyage to the White Continent. Stark, hauntingly beautiful, surreal, breathtaking – words cannot adequately describe the sights and sounds of this pristine, remote landscape. This is a true ice wilderness, one where you will be surrounded by penguins, seals, whales and seabirds, set against a backdrop of towering, sculpted icebergs, snow-capped peaks, imposing glaciers and ice-choked waters. The wildlife viewing is unparalleled, as is the majestic scenery.
This is a once in a lifetime voyage to the world’s final frontier.
We will be on the expedition as well, so you will be traveling with us! Whilst we will be joining a voyage with others onboard there will be plenty of time for us to meet, hang out and get to know each other!
We now have an enquiry page where you can get more information and see the exact itinerary of the trip. Filling out the form is completely without obligations, you don’t have to book immediately.
Please note that we only have 20 LIMITED SPOTS available. Don’t wait too long because these spots will fill up very quickly!
Want more information? Click here!
Highlights of the trip
- Unspoiled wilderness, uninhabited by man, where the penguins, seals, whales and seabirds are the true rulers.
- Experience the White Continent and encounter an incredible variety of wildlife.
- Take in the Sub-Antarctic South Shetland Islands and the spectacular Antarctic Peninsula.
- Admire breathtaking scenery such as icebergs, glaciated mountains and volcanoes.
- Enjoy daily zodiac excursions and on-shore landings.
- Benefit from a variety of on-board activities including educational lectures on history, geology and ecology by the expedition team.
- Take advantage of optional activities during the voyage such as sea kayaking and snowshoeing.
- Enjoy the amenities onboard including expedition lounge, restaurant, bar, pool, jacuzzi, library, gym, sun deck, spa facilities and sauna.
Itinerary of the Antarctica Expedition
Day 1 – Ushuaia, Argentina
On arrival at Ushuaia Airport, please make your way through to the Arrivals Hall where our representative will be waiting for you to transfer you to your hotel. He/she will be holding a sign. Should you not be able to contact them, please refer to the emergency contact details of our representative office. The first night of your voyage is spent in the quaint town of Ushuaia, the most southerly city in the world and the capital of Tierra del Fuego (Land of Fire). The remainder of the day is at leisure and you are free to explore, maybe making a few last-minute purchases from the many shops or artisan markets, or relaxing in a café. Avenida San Martin is the main street and there are some excellent museums to visit or you may prefer to wander the streets taking in the town’s dramatic setting, with views of the mountains to the north and the Beagle Channel to the south.
Day 2 – Embarkation in Ushuaia
This morning is again free for you to explore Ushuaia further, or maybe discover Tierra del Fuego National Park, the most southerly national park of South America. The park offers a range of hiking trails that lead you through the stunningly beautiful and dramatic scenery of snow-capped peaks, lush meadows, rugged coastline, glaciers, waterfalls and lakes. Look out for guanaco, Andean foxes, muskrats and the North American beaver. Birds found here include the Andean condor, Magellanic oystercatcher, kelp goose, austral parakeet and torrent duck.
Late this afternoon we transfer to the port of Ushuaia in time for embarkation onboard the Ocean Endeavour. The Expedition Team and the Ship’s Officers will be waiting to welcome us aboard. As we set sail, familiarise yourself with the layout of the Ocean Endeavour and its great amenities and enjoy a welcome dinner. This evening we sail along the wildlife-rich Beagle Channel, towards the White Continent of Antarctica. As we leave the lights of Ushuaia behind, look out for Magellanic penguins, rock cormorants, petrels and black-browed albatross from the deck as well as noisy sea lion colonies.
Day 3 & 4 – At sea, Drake Passage
The infamous Drake Passage, named after the famous English explorer, Sir Frances Drake, separates the tip of the Antarctic Peninsula from the southernmost tip of South America. It is often rough and turbulent, but sometimes as calm as a lake. It is unpredictable, so be prepared! Enjoy the fabulous onboard facilities, maybe join a yoga class, attend a presentation or two given by the Expedition Team to prepare you for what lies ahead – from the geology of Antarctica to the history, wildlife and even the ice! As we sail towards Antarctica, there is a fall in temperature as we cross the Antarctic Convergence and enter the waters of the Antarctic Ocean.
The Antarctic Convergence is marked by an increased number of seabirds, whales and other species that are attracted by the nutrient-rich waters pushed to the surface by the colder waters of the polar region flowing north and meeting the warmer equatorial waters flowing south. Head out on deck to look out for the mighty albatrosses that fly overhead, scan the waters for breaching whales and icebergs, or gaze out from the panoramic windows of the observation deck. Keep on the lookout for the first sighting of land – that heralds your arrival to the White Continent!
Day 5-8 – South Shetland Islands & Antarctic Peninsula
The next four days are spent exploring the South Shetland Islands and Antarctic Peninsula, a region that has captivated explorers for centuries and now enthralls travelers. We explore by Zodiac, cruising amongst the magnificently sculpted icebergs and making shore landings where we mingle with penguins, climb to vantage points to absorb the spectacular panoramic views, maybe visiting a scientific or historic base. There may even be opportunities to kayak and snowshoe and of course learn more about photography with one of the experts. Antarctica will enchant you with its incredible scenery, from imposing glaciers to towering snow-capped peaks, vast icebergs and ice-strewn channels.
Not to mention the wildlife – from extensive colonies of chinstrap, Gentoo and Adelie penguins, to crabeater, Weddell, fur and elephant seals and a plethora of fascinating birds. Keep your eyes and ears peeled for the mighty crack of a glacier calving. Maybe you will be one of the brave few to take a polar plunge in the icy waters! Every day brings a new experience and new landing site. As we cruise from one landing site to the next, enjoy the continued lecture program and take in the scenery from the outer decks of the Ocean Endeavour. Make the most of the health and fitness facilities from the relaxing spa and saunas to the pool and gym.
Day 9 & 10 – At sea, Drake Passage
As we leave the Antarctic Peninsula behind, we take with us our memories and photographs. We set a course for the Drake Passage as we enjoy some final lectures and presentations and look out for wildlife from the observation lounge and the outer decks. Having crossed the Drake Passage once more, we enter the calm and tranquil waters of the Beagle Channel bound for Ushuaia.
Day 11 – Disembarkation in Ushuaia, Argentina
We are scheduled to arrive into Ushuaia early this morning, and we disembark after a final breakfast aboard the Ocean Endeavour. After saying our farewells to our Expedition Team and the crew of the Ocean Endeavour, we transfer you to the airport for your onward flight, or you may like to spend some extra days in Ushuaia, giving you time to explore this fascinating town and the surrounding areas.
Inclusions
- All meals onboard the vessel including snacks
- Onboard lecture program (all voyages) from expedition staff and naturalists
- All onshore excursions and Zodiac cruising (excluding optional activities with cost)
- Free use of rubber boots on land and use of waterproof outer shell jacket
- Pre-night accommodation prior to embarkation, breakfast and transfer to The Ocean Endeavour for embarkation
- Transfer to airport on return to port
- Use of gym, sauna, pool and onboard jacuzzi
- Onboard yoga
- All Port taxes
Exclusions
- Airfares to/from embarkation and disembarkation city
- Visa and passport expenses
- Travel Insurance
- Beverages (other than coffee and tea)
- Personal expenses such as laundry, on-board communication (telephone calls, faxes, email service)
- Gratuities for the crew (recommended US$15 per person per day)
- Optional activities like Sea Kayaking or Ice Camping whilst onboard
Ready to make use of all these amazing benefits? Click here!
The Deal
15-25% off depending on cabin category you choose. The good news is that, exclusively for our followers, we arranged a big discount of about 15-25% depending on the cabin category you choose. So it will be much cheaper than normal.
This truly is an amazing deal that, along with the flexible terms, makes a unique opportunity that won’t come back again!
Breakdown of Costs
Ready to make use of this deal now? It won’t come back to you again! Click here!
Optional Activities
Approaching a looming glacier in a sea kayak, strapping on snowshoes to reach the best icy viewpoints, capturing the perfect photo of a humpback whale feeding at the surface or camping under an Antarctic night sky – these are just some of the ways you can enrich your exploration of the great White Continent with our additional activities. We recommend booking early to avoid disappointment.
- Sea Kayaking: Under full instruction from your sea kayaking guide, experience true tranquillity as you paddle through clinking ice floes and realize the enormity of the surrounding scenery. Look out for breaching whales, lounging seals and penguins zipping alongside your kayak. Some experience is required.
- Ice Camping: 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.
- Private Photography Workshop: Learn to capture wildlife and landscape shots in a small group photography program, including critiquing sessions and editing classes. Plus forward-facing Zodiac excursions with a dedicated photography expert on landings.
- Forward Facing Zodiac: Achieve the best views and photographs from a forward-facing Zodiac. 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.
- Snowshoeing: 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.
Ready to explore all these amazing optional activities? Click here!
The Ship
The expedition ship we will be on is called the Ocean Endeavour. The Ocean Endeavour allows you to explore Antarctica while enjoying the class and comfort of a four-star hotel. Featuring one expedition team member for every eight travelers, you can take full advantage of one of the best staff-passenger ratios in Antarctica, with a greater level of personal service and more time with the onboard experts. Complete with contemporary interiors, lounges for learning and reflection, Zodiacs for remote exploration, breath-taking 360° views from the deck, an emphasis on sustainability and exciting activities, the Ocean Endeavour is ideally suited for polar expedition cruising.
The Ocean Endeavour is the ultimate expedition cruising ship. Strong, stable and with plenty of creature comforts, you will feel at home. A huge range of activities both on and off the ship make her versatile and appealing to clients of all ages and budgets. The large Zodiac fleet, with boarding on both sides of the vessel makes for fast embarkation and disembarkation.
Benefits of the ship:
- Travelers will enjoy one of the best expedition staff to passenger ratio (1:8) in Antarctica.
- Book a single occupancy cabin for the price of an interior twin share berth.
- Our strict sustainable travel policy means these cruises are carbon offset, all seafood is sustainably sourced and we aim to eliminate single-use plastic on board.
- A large fleet of Zodiacs enables all passengers to be off the ship at one time. There are also two gangways on each side of the vessel for rapid disembarkation.
- Forward-facing photography Zodiacs are available. These Zodiacs are designed for comfort and uninterrupted views.
- Heated Mudroom, where guest’s damp or wet expedition gear can be stored.
- A wide range of optional outdoor activities are on offer, including Photography program, snowshoeing, ice camping and sea kayaking.
- Passengers can enjoy a robust educational program onboard, with presentations from our expert expedition team on the history, ecology and geology of the area.
- A variety of health and wellness activities are available onboard, including a sauna, saltwater swimming pool, spa and gym.
- One night in a hotel in Punta Arenas included at the start of the trip.
- Extensive amenities including a restaurant, polar boutique, expedition lounges, bar, sun deck and library.
- “Open Bridge” Policy: passengers are invited to observe the navigational operations of the ship.
Amenities on the ship:
- Restaurant
- Nautical lounge
- Polar library
- Gym
- Swimming pool
- Saunas
- Spa facilities
- Lecture theatre
- Polar boutique
- Sun deck and plenty of deck space for observation
- Elevator access (Decks 4, 5 and 6)
- Clinic with licensed Doctor
- Wi-Fi in certain public areas (charges apply)
- 24-hour tea and coffee available
- Onboard laundry service (charges apply)
Inside the ship:
Often recommended for its inimitable sense of space, the Ocean Endeavour has plenty of open and airy communal areas that allow travelers to bask in the unrivaled beauty of passing polar scenery. Cabins and Suites have the essential amenities you’ll need to feel comfortable throughout your voyage. Our friendly staff at reception or your cabin attendant will be happy to help with any additional bedding you need for your cabin.
Housing ten different categories of cabins, the Ocean Endeavour appeals to clients of all ages and budgets. From single occupancy cabins to large double suites, there’s plenty of choices. All cabins also come with a hairdryer, bathrobe(s), climate control, a TV, radio and safe.
Cabin categories:
Category 1 | Single Interior
- Located on Deck 5
- Two lower berths
- A private bathroom
- No porthole or window
Category 2 | Triple Interior
- Located on the Deck 4
- Three lower berths
- One or two private bathrooms
- No porthole or window
Category 3 | Twin Interior
- Located on Deck 4
- Two lower berths
- A private bathroom
- No porthole or window
Category 4/4A | Twin & Single Porthole
- Located on the Deck 4 and 5
- One/Two lower berth
- A private bathroom
- One porthole, unobstructed view
Category 5/5A | Twin & Single Window
- Located on Deck 7 or 8
- Two lower berths/twin or double beds
- A private bathroom
- Picture window
Category 6 | Comfort
- Located on Deck 4
- Two lower berths
- One or two private bathrooms
- Separate seating area
- Two portholes, unobstructed view
Category 7 | Select
- Located on Decks 5
- Two lower berths
- One or two private bathrooms
- Separate seating area
- Large picture window
Category 8 | Superior Twin/Double
- Located on Decks 5 and 7
- Two lower berths/twin or double beds
- A private bathroom
- Separate seating area
- Large picture window
Category 9 | Junior Suite
- Located on Decks 5 and 7
- One double bed
- A private bathroom, some have bathtubs
- Separate seating area
- Large picture windows
Category 10 | Owner’s Suite
- Located on Deck 7
- One double bed
- A private bathroom with a bathtub
- Separate seating area
- Forward-facing picture windows
Want more information about the ship, see the deck plan and see the cabins from inside? Click here!
Covid Policy
We can imagine that some questions may arise after seeing all this information. One of them might be the Covid situation. Currently Chimu Adventures is super flexible, with a reduced deposit of $1,000 USD and great flexibility with moving the trip dates if Covid intervenes. Normally you needed to have a valid reason to reschedule the trip but now you can reschedule the trip for free without any reason, within a certain time limit.
Get more information in the Travel Policy
Ready to book?
Book your exclusive expedition to Antarctica now!
Read all our other blogs about Antarctica here!
We can’t wait to see you all on the trip this November guys! Hope this article gives you plenty of information but if you do have some more information, then let us know down below.
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