
Best of Antarctica
An Antarctic expedition cruise with close wildlife encounters and stunning landscapes aboard the Ocean Endeavour
Length
14 Days
Ship category
Classic
Ship type
Large Ship
Capacity
198 Passengers
Best of Antarctica
5 Reviews
Trip highlights
Bird and whale watching on the Drake Passage
Take the Polar Plunge
Immense icebergs and glaciers
Observe penguins in their natural habitat
The Polartours experience
Wellness activities like Yoga
Learn from industry experts
Your trip is 100% carbon offset
1:8 Crew to Passenger ratio
Enter an unbelievable world of snow and ice as you cruise to Antarctica, the world’s final frontier - a continent that has lured adventurers for hundreds of years and now draws travelers with a taste for exploration. Set sail aboard the comfortable, spacious and fun Ocean Endeavour for this amazing 11-day voyage to the White Continent. Words cannot accurately describe the sights and sounds of this pristine, remote place. This is a true ice wilderness, one where you will be surrounded by wildlife like penguins, seals, whales and seabirds, set against a backdrop of massive icebergs and glaciers. This is a once in a lifetime voyage, you cannot miss.

We compensate all 3.07 tons of CO2 that this trip will cause.
Your ship: Ocean Endeavour



The Ocean Endeavour is a breath of fresh air compared to some of the Antarctic cruise ships of old and it’s quickly become one of our favorites thanks to the things they do differently on board.
Firstly, the Ocean Endeavour provides a class-leading ratio of 1 crew member per 8 passengers, giving you a more personal, informative, and comfortable Antarctic adventure.
The ship also features a focus on health and wellness. The onboard spa, gym, and sauna are overseen by the ship’s health and wellness expert, and there is a dedicated medical center with a permanent onboard doctor and paramedi … Read more about Ocean Endeavour
Cabins




















Amenities
Fitness Center
Bar
Mudroom
Observation Deck
Pool
Zodiac Fleet
Yoga
Observation Lounge
Hot Tub
Gift Shop
Sauna
Medical Services
Food & Drinks
Like everything else about Ocean Endeavour, mealtimes are all about enjoyment, relaxation, and learning. Enjoy open-seating meals in the roomy Polaris Restaurant, surrounded by ocean views, while the expert guides and crew happily mingle and share their expertise with you.
Breakfast and lunch include a wide variety of tasty and healthy choices. Globally inspired à la carte suppers to offer options to suit every taste, including fish and vegetarian options. Desserts, made fresh daily, are a highlight! Food allergies, special diets, and personal choices can all be accommodated by our skilled chefs with advance notice.
Early-bird breakfast, afternoon tea, late-night snacks, and treats round out the offerings. And tea, coffee, and cookies are always freely available.
Map
Itinerary
Keep in mind this is an expedition cruise, so your itinerary will depend greatly on the weather, amount of ice and wildlife breeding behavior.
Adventure options during the cruise




Day 2
Embark on your new home, the Ocean Endeavour.



Late this afternoon we transfer to the port of Ushuaia in time for embarkation on board the Ocean Endeavour. The Expedition Team and the Ship’s Officers will be waiting to welcome us aboard. As we set sail, familiarize yourself with the layout of the Ocean Endeavour and its great amenities, and enjoy a welcome dinner.
Day 3-4
Cross the infamous Drake Passage.



The Drake Passage is the name given to the infamous stretch of open ocean between the tip of South America and the South Shetland Islands and the Antarctic Peninsula.
It usually takes 2 or 3 days to cross the Drake Passage, and this is a great time to learn from your expert Antarctic naturalist guides. Through a series of fascinating talks and lectures, you'll begin to learn more about the remarkable wildlife and awe-inspiring geology of the Antarctic continent.
Your guides are always on hand to help you identify the sea bird species that always follow the ships, as well as spotting whales and other cetaceans that can be seen en route to the Antarctic Peninsula or the South Shetland Islands.
Day 5-6
The South Shetland Islands



Sometimes overlooked as a destination by people keen to set foot on the Antarctic Peninsula, the South Shetland Islands are a must-see destination in their own right.
Often the first and last landfall on an Antarctic cruise, many people are taken aback by the stunning beauty of these islands. What better way to make contact with the Antarctic than by making your first beach landing here surrounded by gentoo penguins?
Apart from some of the most southerly species of penguin, the South Shetlands are home to a huge range of Antarctic wildlife, and they make a superb introduction to the wildlife of the whole region, including key species like elephant seals, humpback whales, and more.
With active volcanoes, the relics and remains of its history as a centre for whaling, and some of the most beautiful Antarctic mountain scenery, the South Shetland Islands are a fitting first destination for any Antarctic cruise.
Day 7
East Antarctic Peninsula



In the real spirit of exploration, day five will hope to see the bow of the Ocean Endeavour round the eastern end of Antarctic Sound and point south toward the truly wild coastlines of the Peninsula’s eastern side. It’s within this ice-laden sea that Sir Ernest Shackleton and his men sledged and floated their way north from their crushed and sunken vessel and bordering this vast expanse is an endless coastline of dramatic basaltic beaches, towering islands that rise straight from the sea and a spattering of remote archipelagos barely seen by human eyes since the heroic era.
From here, the options for exploration are endless. From the secluded Danger Islands to the north, the historically important and penguin-covered Paulet Island, the sweeping Prince Gustav Channel to the south or the protected and glacier-lined coves of Duse Bay. Over three days in this area, we will work with ice conditions to land and zodiac cruise around as many remote locations as possible. Keep an eye out for minke whales as captain and expedition leader navigate the scenic channels around the eagle island group and for the most intrepid: prepare for a polar plunge like none other or even a chance to step onto your very own piece of sea ice. Whatever the weather delivers, what we are sure to find here is a rare Antarctic experience and the closest one is likely to get to a true sense of exploration on planet Earth.
Day 8-11
West Antarctic Peninsula



Following our three days of discovery on the Peninsula’s east side, the Ocean Endeavour will plot a course to transit Antarctic Sound and to visit the more well-trodden western shores. As we attempt to enter the sound, a collection of tabular icebergs typically serves as a gateway from east to west and locations like Esperanza Station and the volcanic cliffs of Brown Bluff are viable landing points along the way. From here on out, we return to the more familiar sights and sounds of gentoo penguin colonies, a collection of Argentine and Chilean bases observable on craggy points and we lower the zodiacs again to explore famous sites like Orne Harbour, Paradise Bay or Port Lockroy. While the east side afforded us the most true sense of isolation and wilderness observable on Earth, the contrast becomes apparent on the western side as no excursion lasts long without the presence of gentoo or chinstrap penguins parading through the early-season snow and marine mammals hauling themselves onto ice-floes. After our four days of excursions in this region, we will again turn north to cross the Bransfield Strait. As we thread the Ocean Endeavour through South Shetland Islands, we will take to the aft deck of the Ocean Endeavour once more for a final toast to the Antarctic, to discovery and to the new horizon ahead.
Day 12-13
Spend the last 2 days crossing the Drake Passage towards Ushuaia



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 14
Your unforgettable Antarctic cruise comes to an end in Ushuaia



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.
PLEASE NOTE: You are advised not to book a flight out of Ushuaia before midday on disembarkation day, in case of delays caused by unfavourable weather conditions.
Dates & Prices
When do you want to travel?
From
Until
Info
Status
Price
2
Nov
2023
12
Nov
2023
- Special 2-for-1 deal, only for a limited time!
From
USD 7,349
2
Nov
2023
12
Nov
2023
Special 2-for-1 deal, only for a limited time!
From
USD 7,349
11
Nov
2023
21
Nov
2023
- Special 2-for-1 deal, only for a limited time!
From
USD 7,649
11
Nov
2023
21
Nov
2023
Special 2-for-1 deal, only for a limited time!
From
USD 7,649
9
Dec
2023
19
Dec
2023
- Special 2-for-1 deal, only for a limited time!
From
USD 8,799
9
Dec
2023
19
Dec
2023
Special 2-for-1 deal, only for a limited time!
From
USD 8,799
27
Dec
2023
9
Jan
2024
- Special 2-for-1 deal, only for a limited time!
From
USD 10,699
27
Dec
2023
9
Jan
2024
Special 2-for-1 deal, only for a limited time!
From
USD 10,699
27
Jan
2024
6
Feb
2024
- Inquire with us for a better price!
From
USD 9,549
27
Jan
2024
6
Feb
2024
Inquire with us for a better price!
From
USD 9,549
9
Mar
2024
19
Mar
2024
- Inquire with us for a better price!
From
USD 8,199
9
Mar
2024
19
Mar
2024
Inquire with us for a better price!
From
USD 8,199
18
Nov
2024
28
Nov
2024
- Great discounts on Twin Window Cabins & above
From
USD 7,899
18
Nov
2024
28
Nov
2024
Great discounts on Twin Window Cabins & above
From
USD 7,899
18
Dec
2024
28
Dec
2024
- Great discounts on Twin Window Cabins & above
From
USD 9,249
18
Dec
2024
28
Dec
2024
Great discounts on Twin Window Cabins & above
From
USD 9,249
27
Dec
2024
6
Jan
2025
- Great discounts on Twin Window Cabins & above
From
USD 9,249
27
Dec
2024
6
Jan
2025
Great discounts on Twin Window Cabins & above
From
USD 9,249
26
Jan
2025
5
Feb
2025
- Great discounts on Twin Window Cabins & above
From
USD 9,249
26
Jan
2025
5
Feb
2025
Great discounts on Twin Window Cabins & above
From
USD 9,249
Preferred date unavailable? Contact us
Info
Single Cabin Supplement
When booking online, you can choose the option to "Upgrade to single occupancy". This will guarantee you the whole cabin to yourself, for an additional fee. If you don't select this option, then another traveler of the same sex might be placed into the same cabin with you.
What's included
• All meals onboard the Ocean Endeavour including snacks
• Onboard lecture program from expedition staff and naturalists
• All shore excursions and zodiac cruising (except optional activities with cost)
• Use of rubber boots on land and use of waterproof outer shell jacket
• Insulated inner jacket, yours to keep at the end of the Cruise
• Transfer from airport to hotel (Day 1) and pre-night hotel accommodation with breakfast
• Transfer from hotel accommodation to the Ocean Endeavour for embarkation
• Transfers to airport on return to port
• All port taxes
• Use of gym, sauna, pool and on-board jacuzzi and on-board yoga
What's not included
• International flights or internal flights unless specified
• Airport transfers, taxes and excess baggage charges unless specified
• Meals other than those specified in the pre-departure information
• Visa and passport fees
• Travel insurance
• Optional activities and all personal expenses
• Tobacco, alcoholic or special beverages
• Miscellaneous extras
• Laundry and communication charges aboard
• Medical care
• Life jackets, waterproof outer shell jacket, insulated inner jacket and boots for minors under 16 years of
age at time of travel
• Waterproof outer shell jacket and insulated inner jacket for guests who require sizing larger than 3XL
• Boots for guests who require sizing larger than men’s size 14 boots
• Gratuities for crew and expedition staff
Credit Card charges may apply
A fuel surcharge may apply at a later stage. More info
Reviews
FAQ
What is the booking process for a Polartours Cruise?
We love to help people find their dream vacation to the Arctic and Antarctic. Whether you give us a call, contact us via email, or use our website inquiry form, one of our Polar travel experts will be more than happy to answer any questions, recommend ships and itineraries, and walk you through the whole process!
Step 1: Find your perfect trip. If you have already started looking for Polar Cruises, you will have quickly noticed that the sheer amount of options can be quite overwhelming. To help you navigate the countless departures and itineraries that our fleet offers, we have put together a great filter page for Antarctic and Arctic Expedition Cruises. Use this page to filter all trips by price, date, ship category, and even destinations you wish to visit. We update all dates, prices, and availabilities daily, and are proud to host what is doubtlessly the world's most complete collection of information.
Step 2: Found something you love? We'll hold your spaces, free of charge! If you find a cruise you like, you can either inquire directly with us or make an unbinding booking online. We will then reach out to the shipowners to put a hold on your spaces for a limited time, free of charge. Once we have confirmed your block with the ship, we will send you a written confirmation of your reservation and include full payment details in an invoice. Typically, we are able to hold unpaid reservations for up to 1 week*. This gives us time to clarify all your remaining questions, and also ensures that no other passengers can book your spaces, while we continue our conversation.
Step 3: Confirm your booking. In order to confirm your booking, we ask for a deposit payment. You can pay via bank transfer or credit card. Keep in mind, that we can only hold your spaces for a limited amount of time. If we don't receive your payment after this time, we can no longer guarantee that the places will be available or that the price won't increase. To prevent disappointment, we will automatically cancel your reservation if we don't receive your deposit by the due date stated on your booking reservation.
Step 4: Booking confirmation & Payment. As soon as we have received your deposit and a completed passenger information form, we will be pleased to send your booking confirmation and updated invoice, along with your trip itinerary, important information, and other great tips for your cruise.
Step 5: Final payment. In your initial invoice, we will define a final payment date by when you need to pay us the remaining amount of your trip. Once we have received your final payment we'll send you your cruise documents and voucher. As your trip approaches, we make sure to pass along all necessary information, so you feel super prepared and stress-free.
*For last-minute bookings, we might not be able to hold your spaces for so long. We will also require the full payment of your cruise upon booking.
When is the best time to book?
An expedition cruise to Antarctica or the Arctic is a big deal! Most people plan for this type of trip at least 8 months in advance. This means the earlier you book, the better chance you'll have to reserve your prefered cabins. Early bird discounts are also popular and a great way to get 10-30% off your cruise.
Most expedition cruises offer optional activities like camping and kayaking, but the spaces are limited. A cruise with 120 passengers can have only 10-15 spaces for kayaking. These are reserved on a first come first served basis. The earlier you book, the higher your chance of grabbing a spot.
Even though last minute deals do occur, keep in mind that the airline prices will be much higher if you purchase them last minute. You may save a few hundred on your cruise, but you may end up paying the most for airfare.
How to choose the right ship?
Choosing the right ship for a cruise to Antarctica or the Arctic seems difficult, but it doesn't have to be. Our fleet is over 30 vessels, we are sure that there is the perfect one for you. Please, follow these simple steps, and you will be able to find your ideal ship:
- Determine your budget and desired level of comfort: Are you looking for luxury or more budget-friendly options? On our website you can set the price range.
- Consider ship size: Large ships offer more amenities and facilities, but they can also feel crowded and impersonal. Smaller ships offer a more personal experience, but may not have as many amenities.
- Look at the cabins: Although you probably won’t spend much time in your cabin, look at the photos and read the descriptions to make sure you're happy with the one you choose.
- Consider the activities on board: Are you interested in kayaking, camping, diving or a photography workshop? Or maybe you want to take part in a Citizen Science Program? These activities can enhance your overall experience. See what our ships have to offer.
- Read customer reviews: Learn about other travelers' experiences by reading reviews.
- Ask your Polar Specialist: Feel free to contact your Polar Specialist. They are happy to share their knowledge and are always ready to help.
In addition: We work with responsible partners who provide a great experience for their passengers. All of our providers are committed to sustainability and to preserving the beauty of the polar regions. You don’t need to worry about the impact of your cruise, because we’ve already taken care of it.
What can i do to avoid seasickness?
If you are prone to motion sickness then here are a few hints to help you.
Firstly, book a cabin in the middle of the ship. The middle of the ship will move less, both in roll and in pitch. Secondly, chose a larger ship. Bigger vessels typically are more stable, and some of them are even equipped with "stabilizers", fins under water that remove the rolling in the swells. Thirdly, take medical advice on anti-seasickness medication. Some traditional remedies are said to be very effective, such as taking ginger or using commercially-available acupressure wristbands.
Watch this informative video about life onboard an expedition ship and seasickness from our expert guide and Polartours Brand Ambassador, Kevin.

Why is insurance mandatory on all Polar cruises?
There is no doubt the Arctic and Antarctic are some of the world's most remote destinations. In order to visit with complete piece of mind, your safety MUST be taken into consideration.
A Polar expedition is one of the most singular travel experiences you could ever have. Its isolated location comes with a unique set of health-and-safety-related requirements. It is mandatory to be reasonably fit and in possession of a comprehensive travel insurance policy that’ll cover medical and evacuation expenses. We know Polar expedition cruises can be quite expensive, which is why we also strongly recommend Trip Cancellation Coverage in addition to your medical policy.
All Polar tour operators insist you purchase Travel Insurance covering emergency Medical evacuation and repatriation. This is mandatory for all Polar trips! An emergency evacuation from an Antarctic cruise expedition can cost hundreds of thousands of dollars. Without this coverage, tour operators will refuse your boarding. While the chances of you using this are very slim to none, it is better be safe than sorry.
What should you look for when choosing travel insurance for Arctic/Antarctica expeditions?
A good, reliable insurance company should offer comprehensive Antarctica-specific insurance with a minimum 1 million USD evacuation coverage and medical fees.
Most tour operators in the Arctic require cover of $200,000 for evacuation or repatriation.
If you are an EU resident, please inquire about insurance packages from our partner by clicking here.
What is a fuel surcharge?
Global oil prices are extremely unpredictable. With that in mind, ship operators who operate in the polar regions are at liberty to implement a fuel surcharge as they see fit. In addition to the fuel pricing changes, all vessels visiting Antarctica are required to use much higher-grade and expensive fuel under the terms of the Antarctic Treaty.
While the charge itself will depend on the ship and duration of the cruise, it is possible that a surchage will be added to your final invoice. If this is the case, you will receive a formal e-mail from your travel specialist with an explanation and your new cruise total added to your final invoice.
We appreciate your understanding and are grateful for your trust and business.
Best of Antarctica
5.0
(5)
From
USD 7,349
/ person
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