Journey to the Antarctic Circle

Journey to the Antarctic Circle

716 Views
14 Days From

$12445

$10578

Journey to the Antarctic Circle

14 Days Starting and ending in Ushuaia

Visiting: Ushuaia, Argentina, Embarkation in Ushuaia, At Sea, Drake Passage, South Shetland Islands & Antarctic Peninsula , The Antarctic Circle, Disembarkation in Ushuaia Argentina

Tour operator:

Intrepid Travel

Tour code:

GQMCN

Guide Type:

Fully Guided

Group size:

1 - 80

Physical rating:

Low

Age range:

12-99

Tour operated in:

English

Trip Styles:

Expedition Cruising

Interests:

Polar

From: $12445 $10578 (USD) Operator discount: -$1867 -15%

NB: Prices correct on 18-Jan-2025 but subject to change.

This tour is no longer available, please see similar tours below or send an enquiry

Tour Overview

Set sail for an adventure like no other. Spend 14 days following in the wake of Captain Cook as you cross the Antarctic Circle, home to the midnight sun and towering icebergs. On board the well-appointed Ocean Nova, leave Ushuaia and civilisation behind and journey towards the hauntingly beautiful icy wilderness of the Antarctic Continent. Experience the thrill of witnessing seals lie on ice floes, whales breaching the frigid waters and penguins patrolling the rocky shoreline in vast numbers. Enjoy jaw-dropping views witnessed by seldom few as you explore ice-filled bays by Zodiac, landing on Antarctica itself for onshore excursions.

Highlights

  • Set sail to the Antarctic Circle and experience nearly endless daylight during the high summer as you journey further south, uncovering the remoteness and untouched beauty of this less-visited part of the Antarctic Peninsula.

  • Soak up the beauty of this wild place and take advantage of the extra days on the Antarctic Peninsula with this extended expedition. Enjoy more landings, visit more locations and have additional opportunities to witness Antarctica’s breathtaking wildlife and landscapes.

  • Gain insight from onboard polar experts who will cover a range of fascinating topics during their daily lectures, from the diverse wildlife to the unique geology of the region.

  • Look for gentoo and chinstrap penguins, fur and Weddell seals, albatrosses and more, all set against the backdrop of towering icebergs and glaciated mountains.

  • Take part in Citizen Science Projects and contribute to meaningful research by photographing whale flukes for Happy Whale, who help to track and identify individual whales across the oceans.

Itinerary

Expand All

Day 1: Ushuaia, Argentina

Location: Ushuaia, Argentina

Accommodation: Hotel

Accommodation Name: Hotel

Welcome to Ushuaia – the gateway to Antarctica. Located at the southern tip of Argentina, these parts are known as Tierra del Fuego, often called ‘The End of the World’, but this is just the beginning of your Antarctic adventure. Those with a day or two may want to head to Tierra del Fuego National Park on a full day’s adventure, or if you've only got a few hours to kill, why not stroll around town and visit the waterfront overlooking the Beagle Channel. You might also like to sample some handcrafted chocolate at a local cafe in town. Tonight, you’ll have a welcome meeting at about 5 pm at your hotel, then you’re free to get ready for an early morning tomorrow!

Day 2: Embarkation In Ushuaia

Location: Embarkation in Ushuaia

Accommodation: Ocean Endeavour

Accommodation Name: Ocean Endeavour

Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner

Enjoy some free time to explore Ushuaia and the surrounding area before boarding the Ocean Nova – your home for the next 12 nights. Today, your ship will make its way through the Beagle Channel towards the infamous Drake Passage. Named after Charles Darwin’s historic ship, 'The Beagle', the deep open water of the channel presents many great photo opportunities. Be sure to wave goodbye to South America if you’re not too busy snapping away at the incredible landscapes – your next land sighting will be the Antarctic Peninsula and the South Shetland Islands.

Optional Activities:
-Welcome Briefing - Free

Day 3-4: At Sea, Drake Passage

Location: At Sea, Drake Passage

Accommodation: Ocean Endeavour

Accommodation Name: Ocean Endeavour

The Drake Passage is one of the planet's most famous bodies of water. It can be rough, but if weather conditions are reasonable, you can head out on the outer decks to spot ocean dwellers like whales, dolphins or seabirds, including the wandering albatross, prions and petrels. Over the next two days, you’ll get to know your Expedition Team as your comprehensive lecture program gets underway. Your polar experts will share their knowledge of the Antarctic region so you can understand its wildlife, history and geology and help prepare you for the adventure. Your Expedition Team consists of experts on the marine and bird life that inhabits these parts. They will help you scout for sightings as you join them on the outer decks. Step onto the ship's bridge and take advantage of our open bridge policy, inviting you into Ocean Nova's command centrr. This is your chance to observe the captain and the expedition in progress from an ideal viewpoint for spotting wildlife.

Included Activities:
-Citizen Science Program
-Onboard Lecture Program
-Daily Briefings and Recap

Optional Activities:
-Onboard Gym - Free

Day 5-8: South Shetland Islands & Antarctic Peninsula

Location: South Shetland Islands & Antarctic Peninsula

Accommodation: Ocean Endeavour

Accommodation Name: Ocean Endeavour

Over the next few days, you’ll make Zodiac cruises through the icy waters. There are several potential landing sites, and while weather dictates which specific site you’ll land at, each presents an opportunity to get up close with some incredible wildlife. Look out for chinstrap, gentoo and Adelie penguin colonies as well as crabeater, Weddell, fur and elephant seals. When you are on board the Ocean Nova, your Expedition Team will keep the education going with a range of wildlife and history presentations and documentary screenings. A typical expedition day begins with a wake-up call from your Expedition Leader around 7 am, followed by breakfast. Weather permitting, you can anticipate at least two excursions daily, providing ample opportunities to take in the breathtaking Antarctic landscape. For those who crave even more adventure, treat yourself to an optional paddling excursion that offers a new perspective of this frozen expanse. You’ll also be able to take a polar plunge off the Ocean Nova. There’s nothing like a quick dip in the Antarctic’s icy depths to wake you up!

Included Activities:
-Daily Briefings and Recap
-Citizen Science Program
-Guided walking Excursions
-Zodiac Excursion/Cruising
-Onboard Lecture Program

Optional Activities:
-Polar Plunge - Free
-Day Paddle
-Onboard Gym - Free

Day 9-10: The Antarctic Circle

Location: The Antarctic Circle

Accommodation: Ocean Endeavour

Accommodation Name: Ocean Endeavour

Weather and ice conditions permitting, you’ll celebrate reaching the latitude of 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. Travel past colossal icebergs to a point on Earth where only a few travellers have sailed. Home to Weddell seals that are specially adapted to this icy environment, they use their canines and incisors to rasp open new ice and maintain holes in the ice through which to breathe. They also have highly accurate powers of navigation, enabling them to seek out breathing holes when their teeth are worn down, and they can no longer maintain or create breathing holes in the ice.

Included Activities:
-Daily Briefings and Recap
-Citizen Science Program
-Onboard Lecture Program
-Zodiac Excursion/Cruising
-Guided walking Excursions

Optional Activities:
-Day Paddle
-Onboard Gym - Free

Day 11: South Shetland Islands & Antarctic Peninsula

Location: South Shetland Islands & Antarctic Peninsula

Accommodation: Ocean Endeavour

Accommodation Name: Ocean Endeavour

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

As the Ocean Nova begins heading north, you’ll be more familiar with the Antarctic waters. Test your newfound knowledge of penguin species and fine-tune your wildlife spotting skills as you differentiate between fur, leopard and Weddell seals. Zodiac cruises and landings will continue to ensure you make the most of the peninsula’s wildlife opportunities and capture the perfect photographs.

Included Activities:
-Daily Briefings and Recap
-Citizen Science Program
-Onboard Lecture Program
-Zodiac Excursion/Cruising
-Guided walking Excursions

Optional Activities:
-Onboard Gym - Free

Day 12-13: At Sea, Drake Passage

Location: At Sea, Drake Passage

Accommodation: Ocean Endeavour

Accommodation Name: Ocean Endeavour

The journey’s final leg offers an opportunity to reflect on the spectacular scenery and prolific encounters. During the final days at sea, join additional onboard lectures and view a slideshow featuring captivating images captured by our Expedition Photographer throughout your journey—yours to keep as a cherished reminder of your incredible Antarctic expedition. By the evening of Day 13, you’ll enter the relatively calm waters of the Beagle Channel, signalling the start of your return home. That evening, enjoy a final celebration with your fellow travellers and Expedition Team to mark the end of this Antarctic adventure.

Included Activities:
-Daily Briefings and Recap
-Citizen Science Program
-Onboard Lecture Program

Optional Activities:
-Onboard Gym - Free

Day 14: Disembarkation In Ushuaia, Argentina

Location: Disembarkation in Ushuaia, Argentina

Meals Included: Breakfast

After breakfast, disembark the Ocean Nova as your Antarctic expedition ends. A morning transfer to Ushuaia Airport or downtown is included, but if you’d like to extend your stay, just speak to your booking agent ahead of time.

What's Included

  • Accommodation
    Comfortable Hotel (1 night), Expedition Cruise Ship (12 nights)

  • Meals
    13 breakfasts, 11 lunches, 12 dinners

  • Citizen Science Program

  • Onboard Lecture Program

  • Daily Briefings and Recap

  • Guided walking Excursions

  • Zodiac Excursion/Cruising

What's Not Included

  • Tipping and Gratuities

  • International Travel

Transport

The Ocean Endeavour has a fleet of 20 Zodiacs which means that all passengers can enjoy a landing at the same time.

Accommodation

Comfortable Hotel (1 night), Expedition Cruise Ship (12 nights)

Important Information

Your voyage is on board the Ocean Nova ship.SPECIAL BOOKING CONDITIONSThis voyage is operated by our Polar partner Ocean Endeavour Expeditions Pty Ltd referred to as ‘Polar Latitudes’’. You are required to pay a non-refundable deposit of 20% of the full voyage cost (before any discount) per person per Cruise for your booking to be confirmed. If your booking is made within 95 days of the departure date, then the full amount is payable at the time of booking. Please refer to the "booking conditions" on our website under Antarctica Voyages (Ocean Nova).ADVENTURE OPTIONSAn optional day paddle is a one-off excursion available on all voyages for an additional cost. Pre-book via your booking agent.

Mode of Transport

The Ocean Nova has a fleet of 8 Zodiacs which means that all passengers can enjoy a landing at the same time.

Accommodation

The Ocean Nova offers a classic Antarctic expedition experience. Designed for intimate and immersive journeys, this nimble and sturdy ship accommodates just 80 guests. Your expedition focuses on discovery, enriched by a close-knit community of fellow travellers. The Ocean Nova’s compact size allows access to remote coves, bringing you closer to Antarctica’s stunning landscapes and wildlife. Cosy cabins feature large windows for breathtaking views, while the Panoramic Lounge offers 200-degree vistas and insightful presentations from our expert Expedition Team. With one of the best guide-to-guest ratios, the Ocean Nova is perfect for those seeking an enriching Antarctic adventure.

Check out our Q&As

  • Is this trip right for you

    The Ocean Nova 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.

  • What policies are in place for Covid-19?

    Please contact us for latest COVID-19 policies

  • How long has the tour company been trading?

    Intrepid Travel has been taking travellers around the world for over 30 years

  • Will the accommodation included meet local health and safety regulations?

    Yes

  • What Ethical Travel credentials does the tour company have?

    Since 2002, The Intrepid Foundation has supported over 130 organisations across the world. We’re creating positive impact through the joy of travel, community and connection.

  • Do you operate a “single share” option and how does it work?

    Over 50% of traveller travel solo with Intrepid. You can choose to share a room with another solo travelle of the same sex for no additional charge, or choose to pay a single supplement if you’d like your own room. Please request this when booking, and we will secure you a single supplement wherever possible. Please note, if you are booking a last-minute trip, it may be harder for us to secure a single room

Reviews of this operator

Maroochy Dazza (Google Reviewer)  

Just leaving a review to...

24-Aug-2023

Just leaving a review to share how much I enjoyed my Central America trip. I thought the guide, Aura was so knowledgeable and organised and clearly a great ambassador for Intrepid. She gave us lots of information on each region, helped us organise anything we needed and dealt with queries from passengers very well and diplomatically. She made the trip run smoothly. She was also keen to explain the Intrepid vision and how the company values making a difference to locals and is a credit to your company. I did Guatemala and beyond and thoroughly enjoyed it - very fast paced, lots to see and do and a great overview of the region. I would definitely recommend 👍

LivvyGrace 4 (Google Reviewer)  

I just completed my first...

15-Jul-2024

I just completed my first Intrepid tour which was 33 days travelling around Central America - I had the time of my life! It was great to have the benefit of a guide (Fluffy was amazing!) and be able to ask questions at any point, but I also liked the freedom that you were permitted throughout. The group tour made boarder crossings seamless and the whole process felt easy - there was never one hiccup. As a solo female traveller, I felt safe throughout, and I cannot recommend Central America enough - the people, the food, the sun and the activities were just amazing :) Can't wait to book my next adventure soon!

V Open (Google Reviewer)  

I have just come back...

26-Oct-2022

I have just come back home after doing Intrepid's 10-day Vietnam Express Northbound tour. What a SUPERB tour. We saw lots and did lots, it was jam-packed full of sights and activities. Our tour leader, Tam, was the best ever. Very knowledgeable, organised and lots of fun too. The other 10 people on the group were all lovely. The places we visited were very interesting. We even visited local homes and ate just like the local people do. I highly recommend Intrepid to anyone considering touring a new country. This was my 5th tour with them and they have consistently been fantastic.

Jack Edwards (Google Reviewer)  

I have travelled with Intrepid...

03-Jun-2024

I have travelled with Intrepid a number of times now and can't recommend them enough. The trips are always exciting, full of history and immersive in the culture and environment. The office staff are great too and always happy to help with any questions you might have. Everywhere I have gone with the company has been different but the guides and itinerary have always been excellent and full of knowledge and passion for their country. Add in the social responsibility angle the company has and it top quality ethical practice and you can't go wrong

Jo Clayton (Google Reviewer)  

I recently went on an...

15-Mar-2024

I recently went on an 11 day tour of India with Intrepid and was impressed with every aspect of the tour, the tour leader and the organisation behind the scenes. I always travel alone so it was a big deal to join a tour, I didn't want to feel less independent or ferried about. I loved being part of a group and the things we saw and did on the tour, I would never have known about or seen if I had been by myself. I loved it from start to finish. Yes the overnight trains were not easy to sleep on, but I managed. Meeting locals on board was a high light for me. English is widely spoken in India and its amazing who you strike up a chat with. I had two problems on the tour - one my own fault and one hotel related. The support from Intrepid was amazing. I cannot thank them enough for going the extra mile to support me. I recommend Intrepid 100% and have gone from thinking an organised tour is for people who don't know about Lonely Planet and can't do solo stuff, to realising its a faster, better, more fun way to get to know a country truly and deeply whilst on a bit of a budget. I will book again and again with Intrepid. I loved it that much! Big thanks to tour leader Daddy H. Devender for his help on day one, and Nick in the Oz office for his fab customer care skills. Also the person who staffed the emergency whatsapp in India - you saved my sanity helping me get there a day late! THANK YOU ALL X

Nicole  

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Alice Norton (Google Reviewer)  

I have just completed a...

29-Feb-2024

I have just completed a 12 day food tour of Vietnam, and had an amazing time. Our tour leader was great, knowledgeable and kind, who helped throughout the trip with recommendations for places on our free days, and spas. All the food we tried was delicious. It is a very fast paced tour, and Bon tried to maximise our experiences for the best.

Henry Guy Robinson   United Kingdom

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08-Mar-2024

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Alan Perrott (Google Reviewer)  

We had a fantastic time...

13-Aug-2024

We had a fantastic time on the Botswana Highlights tour recently. We chose Intrepid because it seemed to suit what we wanted - well planned itinerary, small group, comfortable without being overly luxurious (and pricey), and supportive of the local community and environment. We weren't disappointed, and as we met with other like-minded travellers then we all had a great time. We are already planning our next Intrepid tour - maybe Vietnam & Cambodia :-)

1 Select your preferred date

Tuesday - Monday

Feb 04, 2025 - Feb 17, 2025
$13850 $13192 (USD)

Travel Club discount: -$658 (USD)

Tuesday - Monday

Feb 25, 2025 - Mar 10, 2025
$12400 $11811 (USD)

Travel Club discount: -$589 (USD)

Thursday - Wednesday

Feb 04, 2027 - Feb 17, 2027
$13685 $11632 (USD)

Operator discount: -$2053 (USD)

Friday - Thursday

Feb 26, 2027 - Mar 11, 2027
$12445 $10578 (USD)

Operator discount: -$1867 (USD)

Book with Confidence

  • Free Date Changes

    Intrepid Travel allows you to make 10 free date changes, as long as the change is made at least 56 days before the start of the tour.

  • Transfer as credit to Future Tours

    Intrepid Travel allows you to transfer existing payments to a future tour to avoid cancellation fees if you can't travel and inform intrepid travel, 56 days before departure.

  • Low Deposit

    Intrepid Travel requires a minimum deposit of 400 USD per person or the full booking value, whichever is less, with the final balance not due until 56 days before departure.

  • Cancellation Policy

    We don't charge a cancellation fee, here is a summary of intrepid travel charges.

    Up to 56 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of deposit.

    At 55 days before tour starts: Forfeit 30% of booking price.

    At 30 days before tour starts: Forfeit 60% of booking price.

    At 14 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of booking price.

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