Shackleton's Falklands, South Georgia and Antarctica Expedition (Ocean Endeavour)

Intrepid Travel Premier
Has very high quality customer experiences and demonstrated commitment to responsible travel practices. read more
4.6 . Excellent
94%
Travel Style: N/A
Physical Level: Walking or physical activity half to most of day - no carrying equipment. Easy
Lodging Level: 3 to 4 star western hotel equivalents. While not all lodging will be 'luxury' they will be quite comfortable by western standards. Comfort (4*)
21 days
From: $ 14,700 $ 700 / day
Checking price

Overview

Highlights (Bullets)

  • Wander the quaint British town of Stanley in the Falklands and explore the charming island farmsteads that teem with nesting seabirds – including many albatross and penguin species.
  • Marvel at breathtaking polar scenery and witness the enormous king penguin colonies of South Georgia, where you’ll learn more about Sir Ernest Shackleton’s history and visit his grave.
  • See the magnificent surrounds a little closer on daily Zodiac excursions and personalise your trip with our wide range of paid adventures – including kayaking, day paddling and camping.
  • Explore the local famous sites, towering glaciers and abundant penguin colonies of the Antarctic Peninsula and South Shetland Islands. Don’t forget to keep your eyes peeled for whales.
  • Benefit from onboard educational lectures on history, geology and ecology and participate in our Citizen Science Program – led by our expert Expedition Team.

Short Description

Follow the history of epic survivalist Sir Ernest Shackleton and uncover the secrets of Antarctica, on this three-week voyage to South Georgia and the Falkland Islands. Calling all wildlife, photography and history buffs – this journey of discovery aboard the Ocean Endeavour promises a rugged landscape that few have experienced. Marvel at spectacular scenery, walk with thousands of king penguins, spot seals and albatross in the wild and look out for the mightiest of mammals – the humpback whale – as you scan the horizon from land and sea. Glide through ice floes in a Zodiac with expert guides among Antarctica’s towering icebergs and majestic glaciers. With optional adventures including camping, kayaking and photography workshops, this journey of discovery will be etched in your memory (and heart) forever.

Style Small ship cruise
Array
Itinerary Focus N/A
3 to 4 star western hotel equivalents. While not all lodging will be 'luxury' they will be quite comfortable by western standards.
Lodging Level Comfort (4*)
Flight & Transport Inclusions All internal ground transport
Start City Puerto Madryn
End City Ushuaia

Attractions & Cities Visited

Ushuaia

Activities & Interests

N/A

Age Requirement

8-99

N/A
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Itinerary

Day 1 Puerto Madryn

Welcome to Puerto Madryn, Argentina! Your journey begins in northern Patagonia, on a sandy coast known for its abundant marine wildlife. You can arrive at any time today. Transfer to your hotel, settle in and enjoy some free time at ‘the gateway to the Peninsula Valdes’. Explore the town, try one of the local Argentinian delicacies or take a seat on the coast and stare out to sea. You are free as an albatross until the optional icebreaker meeting this evening. After your briefing, maybe get together with a few of your fellow travellers for dinner at a local restaurant, where you can theorise on what’s to come on your upcoming Antarctic adventure.

Day 2 Puerto Madryn

Today, you’ll hop aboard the Ocean Endeavour – your home for the next 20 days. Set sail towards the Falkland Islands, where your journey in Shackleton’s footsteps begins. Sir Ernest Shackleton is known as one of the greatest polar explorers, with one of the best survival stories that has ever touched the Antarctic (or the world). Shackleton led the British Imperial Trans-Antarctic Expedition between 1914 and 1916, planning to cross Antarctica from a base on the Weddell Sea towards McMurdo Sound, via the South Pole. Unfortunately, their ship Endurance became trapped in ice off the Caird Coast, and this began the epic story of survival for Shackleton and his men – all of whom survived due to the skill, optimism and extraordinary leadership of their team and Captain.

Day 3-4 At Sea

With nothing but you and the big blue for the next couple of days, take advantage of all the amenities and activities on board your fully equipped expedition vessel. Brush up on your history in the library, relax in the spa and sauna or watch the ice floes pass you by on the sundeck. Look up and you might just spot one of the huge albatrosses along their migration route. Keep your eyes peeled for breaching whales and other marine mammals in the southern oceans and cosy up with a drink while you get to know your shipmates at the bar. There will also be a series of lectures and presentations throughout the day, available to educate you about the local geography, environment and wildlife you can expect along the way. These are a great way to prepare for your expedition, so take it all in while you hear from an expert team that highlight the dramatic history and wildlife encounters that may await you.

Day 5-6 Falkland Islands

Have your camera ready as you approach the ruggedly beautiful Falklands archipelago to capture not only the abundant wildlife, but also the incredible scenery. The two main islands (East Falkland and West Falkland) have much to offer and provide a rare opportunity to witness the biological diversity, extraordinary landscape and history of the southern islands. The Falklands are a wildlife photographer’s dream and have the largest black-browed albatross colony in the world, as well as five species of penguins that breed on the islands. Learn about the intriguing and controversial history of the Falkland Islands as you explore the quaint capital of Stanley. Near the town, you may see southern giant petrels, Falkland steamer ducks, kelp gulls or dolphin gulls (calling all birdwatchers!). There are also black-crowned night herons, red-backed hawks, peregrine falcons and turkey vultures. Witness dramatic landscapes, including wetlands, lakes and some rolling peaks, as you explore the other stunning islands in the archipelago. Weather permitting, this will include Saunders Island, the second largest island in the Falklands. The Neck, which is a narrow peninsula with sandy beaches and subtle cliffs, is home to gentoo, Magellanic, king and rockhopper penguins.

Day 7-8 At Sea

Farewell the Falkland Islands and prepare for what lies ahead in South Georgia – fascinating history, geology and of course – wildlife. From the outer decks, you can scan the horizon for seabirds and underwater silhouettes. You’ll have another chance to attend presentations from the expert team, which highlight the dramatic history of the area, extraordinary marine wildlife encounters and so much more. These days at sea are a great opportunity to swap stories with your fellow expeditioners, whether that be in the jacuzzi or over lunch at Polaris restaurant.

Day 9-12 South Georgia

Arrive in South Georgia, where across the island, dark volcanic beaches are backgrounded by hanging glaciers and local penguins nest among tussock grass. Over the next few days, explore the island, once the homestead of whalers and isolated explorers – now, a protected area with dedicated Antarctic research teams. Learn more about Sir Ernest Shackleton’s story on your various excursions to land. It’s on these very shores in South Georgia that Shackleton landed his crew of the James Caird in search of help for his party who were stranded back on Elephant Island. You’ll spend several days retracing Shackleton’s steps, as well as visiting his grave at the ex-whaling station of Grytviken, located on the east side of the island. Wander among hundreds of thousands of king penguins in the dramatic South Georgian light, as you consider the extraordinary feat that was Shackleton’s (and his crew’s) fight for survival. Your Expedition Team will help bring these days to life, with educational presentations, daily excursions and the option of paid activities, like day paddling and photography lessons.

Day 13-14 At Sea

Take in panoramic views from the observation lounge and spacious decks or make the most of the onboard facilities during your days at sea. 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 relaxing wellness facilities onboard. Get the blood pumping at the gym, join a ‘floe’ yoga and meditation class or indulge in a massage or facial at the spa. The ship is yours to explore!

Day 15-18 South Shetland Islands & Antarctic Peninsula

Voyage south towards continental Antarctica. Your days will begin with a wake-up call from your Expedition Leader around 7 am, which gives you time to prepare for the day before joining your fellow expeditioners for breakfast. You’ll usually have two excursions per day – one in the morning and one in the afternoon, with lunch served in between. For the next four days, enjoy copious wildlife, small group outings on the Zodiacs and unforgettable vistas at every turn. With multiple landing sites available, your Ocean Endeavour crew will work out the best places to stop, considering the elements, accessibility and potential for wildlife sightings. There may also be the chance for snowshoeing, sea kayaking or a camping adventure – the paid excursions (which are all weather and time-of-year dependent) can make for some of the greatest memories. Well-known sites like Neko Harbour, Orne Harbour and Kontorp Cove will also be on the Captain’s radar.

Day 19-20 At Sea, Drake Passage

Settle back into life at sea as you prepare 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 travel talks, and enjoy our voyage slideshow including images taken by our Expedition photographer – yours to enjoy and share after your expedition. 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.

Day 21 Disembarkation in Ushuaia, Argentina

This morning, say goodbye to the Ocean Endeavour as you disembark in Ushuaia. A transfer to the airport or downtown is included in your fare. With much to see and do in this quaint ‘End of the World’ town, 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.

Availability

Checking price
Price From $ 14,700
Price Per Day: $ 700 per day
Checking price
Start DateFinish DateBase PriceAvailability 
Oct-30-2024Nov-19-2024$ 14,70011 spots left Reserve
Oct-30-2024Nov-19-2024$ 19,40014 spots left Reserve
Oct-30-2024Nov-19-2024$ 20,35018 spots left Reserve
Oct-30-2024Nov-19-2024$ 21,7508 spots left Reserve
Oct-30-2024Nov-19-2024$ 18,70017 spots left Reserve
Oct-30-2024Nov-19-2024$ 23,7002 spots left Reserve
Oct-30-2024Nov-19-2024$ 15,5006 spots left Reserve
Oct-30-2024Nov-19-2024$ 16,30034 spots left Reserve
Oct-30-2024Nov-19-2024$ 23,65011 spots left Reserve
Oct-30-2024Nov-19-2024$ 17,10036 spots left Reserve
Oct-30-2024Nov-19-2024$ 26,0004 spots left Reserve
Oct-30-2024Nov-19-2024$ 17,95036 spots left Reserve
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Shackleton's Falklands, South Georgia and Antarctica Expedition (Ocean Endeavour)

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Company Reviews

Sardines in a can

3.0
Details
Value3.0
Guide3.0
Activities3.0
Lodging3.0
Transportation3.0
Meals3.0
Love adventures but the size of the cabins on our trip to the Cyclades Islands are extremely cramped . We have three mature adults in one cabin with no space to move and no space to hang or store anything ( including wet towels ).
If any of us had been physically inflexible or overweight we could not have coped with the sleeping arrangements . It is impossible to sit on the top bunk and even turning over in bed requires considerable planning .
An adventure does not mean cutting back on basic essentials …
In our view there were too many people in too small a space .
Two complete strangers were also asked to sleep together in an extremely small double bed , which meant that one of them decided to sleep on deck or in the living space .
The only redeeming factor was our Skipper who is professional, friendly , informative and skilled .
I would recommend this trip if the numbers were reduced .
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I feel totally cheated

2.0
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Value2.0
Guide2.0
Activities2.0
Lodging2.0
Transportation2.0
Meals2.0
I feel totally cheated. Just finished the Spain and Portugal 14 day trip. The itinerary does not match the actual experience and is I feel deliberately miss leading. When I says a “local bus” and an approx 3 hour journey the reality is a 6 hour trip door to door in the middle of the day. You miss valuable time at the actual destination in favour of being jammed in a bus with dozens of people traveling on a freeway with nothing worth seeing at all. The bush are not even express so you stop in the industrial outskirts of a number of towns and even the airport. By the time you finally reach the destination you are tired and frustrated. I want my money back. It’s a cheap experience that you pay a lot of money for.
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Have not even started and not impressed

2.0
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Guide2.0
Activities2.0
Lodging2.0
Transportation2.0
Meals2.0
Booked a premium tour to Israel and paid in full. Once I paid Intrepid changed the tour, not because of operational or safety reasons but on the basis of previous customers feedback. We asked them to keep the tour as it was advertised originally and they suggested we ask our group to see if we can persuade them to go to the original destination once we had arrived in Israel which is simply ridiculous and then I complained so they offered my money back. Not exactly the best resolution now that I already paid for my flights and booked time off separately. Hopefully the tour will be better than my experience so far.
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No help when things go wrong (seriously ill on trip)

1.0
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Value1.0
Guide1.0
Activities1.0
Lodging1.0
Transportation1.0
Meals1.0
Unfortunately, Intrepid is a company I would recommend being wary of. They are fine as long as everything is going ok, but if anything goes wrong? Don't expect any help or decent customer service. I made the mistake of booking two trips, and both times I ran into problems:

Trip 1- I was taken very ill while in Vietnam and had to drop out of the tour. I had no help from the guide- no help with getting to a doctor (I don't speak Vietnamese and was too ill to get out of bed anyway), he didn't even assist with arranging a hotel room.

Trip 2- I've had to cancel an upcoming (2024) trip, but haven't received the refund despite phoning the customer service line several times. The people I talk to are nice, but don't seem to be able to actually get anything done. They just suggest waiting a bit longer- not sure how long they think is acceptable to hang on to someone's money really.
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Check for other companies offtering the same trip

3.0
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Value3.0
Guide3.0
Activities3.0
Lodging3.0
Transportation3.0
Meals3.0
I would think carefully before doing business with Intrepid Travel again. In May I went on 2 one-week guided cycle tours in France with Intrepid. They were both great cycles and I enjoyed the cycling very much. However, I had several complaints about the company and some of the guides (not all of them).
Once I had paid for my trips, it was very difficult to get in touch with Intrepid to ask a question.
During the trips, several times I was told something one day only to have the info change without any good reason. The guides need proper training about dealing with the heat. Some of use suffered from dehydration and heat stroke and the guides were quite flippant about it. I was told that the guides would not leave anyone behind, but it happened several times.
There was one guide (a trainee) who really took some of the pleasure out of my cycle tour. She spoke to me with a tone used for a child. This tone and her attitude to me almost bordered on harassment.
I went on a third cycling tour with a different company after my 2 with Intrepid and it was much better than my experience with Intrepid.
As the demand for ebikes rises, tour companies such as Intrepid need to increase their fleet of ebikes. They also don’t need to charge the huge amount to rent these ebikes. We only want to rent them, not buy them. As the cost of ebikes comes down, if should reflect in the rental price.
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Ecuador guide Eitel made the tour…

5.0
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Value5.0
Guide5.0
Activities5.0
Lodging5.0
Transportation5.0
Meals5.0
Our Ecuador guide Eitel made the tour exceptional! He has encyclopedic knowledge of Ecuador and Latin America. Because he has traveled the world, Eitel placed this information within contexts that we could appreciate. That says a lot because we were a diverse group of travelers. The experience deepened my appreciation for the country's marvelous people, history, cultures, and resources.
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Details

Flight & Transport Inclusions

All internal ground transport Expedition cruise ship,zodiac

Group Size

Small Group - 24 max

Maximum Number of People in Group: 200

Accommodations

Comfortable Hotel (1 night),Expedition Cruise Ship (19 nights)

Guides

Your voyage will be led by an experienced Expedition Leader. In addition, a number of experts will be on board to add knowledge of their field to your experience. These experts will be on shore for your excursions, will drive the zodiacs and deliver lectures on board the ship. Kayaking and snow shoeing specialist guides will also be on board for those participating in these activities.

Age Notes :

Min. Age: 8

Max Age: 99

Additional Information

Finish point

  • Ushuaia Port
  • Array
  • Ushuaia
  • ARGENTINA

Trip ID#:

intrepid-GQMSE

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