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Best of Antarctica: Whale Discovery (Ocean Endeavour)

12 Days | Migrate south by sea with the world’s most magnificent mammals

12 days

Start

Ushuaia, Argentina

Finish

Ushuaia, Argentina

Trip Code

GQMDJ

Min Age

Trip Size

1 - null

Physical Rating

Meals

11 breakfasts, 9 lunches, 10 dinners

Transport

Expedition cruise ship, zodiac

Accommodation

Comfortable hotel (1 night), Expedition cruise ship (10 nights)

From £7,348(12 days)

Trip Informations

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.

Why you’ll love this trip

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.

Is this trip right for you?

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. 

Itinerary

DAY 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 (1 night)
Meals
There are no meals included on this day.
Special information
An arrival transfer from the airport on Day 1 is included in your voyage fare.
DAY 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.
Accommodation
Expedition Cruise Ship (1 night)
Meals
Breakfast
Dinner
Included activities
Welcome Briefing
DAY 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
Accommodation
Expedition Cruise Ship (2 nights)
Meals
Breakfast (2)
Lunch (2)
Dinner (2)
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 - USD95
Photography Program - USD1099
Onboard Gym and Sauna - Free
Special information
The Photography Program has limited spaces available and must be prebooked via your booking agent prior to travel.
DAY 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.
Accommodation
Expedition Cruise Ship (5 nights)
Meals
Breakfast (5)
Lunch (5)
Dinner (5)
Included activities
Zodiac Excursion/Cruising
Guided walking Excursions
Citizen Science Program
Daily Briefings and Recap
Onboard Lecture Program
Optional activities
Stand Up Paddleboarding - USD299
Day Paddle - USD299
Polar Plunge - Free
Kayaking Program - USD1099
Yoga and Meditation Classes - Free
Onboard Spa treatments (various prices apply) starting from - USD95
Photography Program - USD1099
Onboard Gym and Sauna - Free
Special information
Potential excursions and landing sites are determined by weather and ice conditions and cannot be guaranteed in advance. For a list of possible landing sites in Antarctica, go to tuuur.com/antarctica-landing-sites.

Beginners interested in kayaking should take an introductory course prior to the voyage, including how to complete a wet exit. Regardless of your experience, we recommend you take part in some kayaking practice prior to the voyage to ensure that you are comfortable on the water in icy conditions. Kayaking adventures are only conducted during calm weather.
Optional activities such as Stand-Up Paddle boarding, Kayaking and Day Paddle, are very dependent on weather and sea ice conditions. Your experienced expedition team will provide regular updates on which days they are available throughout your voyage.
Kayaking, Photography Program, Day Paddle and Stand Up Paddleboarding have limited spaces available and must be prebooked via your booking agent prior to travel. Snowshoeing must be booked onboard via your expedition team.
DAY 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!
Accommodation
Expedition Cruise Ship (2 nights)
Meals
Breakfast (2)
Lunch (2)
Dinner (2)
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 - USD95
Photography Program - USD1099
Special information
The Photography Program has limited spaces available and must be prebooked via your booking agent prior to travel.
DAY 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.
Meals
Breakfast
Special information
If you would like to stay on in Ushuaia beyond today or would like to explore South America, please speak to your Tuuur booking agent to discuss options. If you are flying out today, please don’t book your flight to depart Ushuaia before midday in case of any delays caused by unfavourable weather conditions.

Inclusions

Meals

11 breakfasts, 9 lunches, 10 dinners

Transport

Expedition cruise ship, zodiac

Accommodation

Comfortable hotel (1 night), Expedition cruise ship (10 nights)

Activities

Welcome Briefing

Daily Briefings and Recap

Onboard Lecture Program

Citizen Science Program

Zodiac Excursion/Cruising

Guided walking Excursions

Dates and availability

Starting

Ending

Remaining

Prices From

Sunday Mar 09, 2025

Thursday Mar 20, 2025

Trip size max: - 16 spaces left

£7,348

Important notes

SPECIAL BOOKING CONDITIONS

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.

Please refer to our “Booking and Conditions” section on our website including the special conditions that apply to Antarctica Voyages (Ocean Endeavour)

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

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