15 Day Absolute Antarctica
A portion of this tour runs as a group tour where you will be escorted by an expert tour leader. Another portion is self-guided, whether conducted by rail, cruise or land, and you will travel between destinations on your own, with free time to explore at your own pace.
This tour is categorised as 3 out of 5
Balanced exploration with walking tours: Our most popular style, this tour offers a good mix of planned activities and free time. Expect moderate daily walking tours, so pack comfortable shoes.
As a general requirement across all of our trips, you may be required to walk up and down stairs, get on and off transportation, handle your own luggage, and participate in all scheduled sightseeing that may be conducted on uneven ground and terrain. Any physical ailments you may have must be disclosed at the time of booking to determine your suitability and where required, supporting documentation may be requested to ensure that we are comfortable that you will enjoy your trip.
For the true explorer, expedition small-ship cruising is the best way to get off the beaten track.This experience is not just about the ship’s creature comforts but very much the destination, its nature and wildlife. Daily shore excursions by Zodiac inflatable boats allow you to step onshore and explore. A world-class, expert expedition team will help you discover each exciting destination. Onboard you’ll enjoy informative and educational lectures. These trips will be a mix of fully guided or self-guided depending on your chosen package. There’s a land touring component with shared sightseeing and transfers.
✓ Incredible sightseeing with an in-depth exploration of Antarctica to discover the icy continent with a world-class expedition team
✓ Intimate experience with a maximum of only 200 passengers on a true expedition style cruise ship
✓ Crew to passenger ratio of 1 crew member for every 8 passengers
✓ Daily zodiac landings, shore excursions and Antarctic lectures, led by a world-class expedition team whilst in Antarctica
✓ Discover the bustling cosmopolitan city Buenos Aires
✓ Includes economy airfare Buenos Aires to Ushuaia and return
✓ 4 nights 4 star accommodation in Buenos Aires
✓ 1 night 3 star accommodation in Ushuaia
✓ 9-night Antarctica cruise with expert guides and leaders with Intrepid onboard the Ocean Endeavour in a Category 5 or 6 cabin (window/porthole), upgrades available
✓ Breakfast daily, 8 lunches and 9 dinners
✓ All airport transfers
Travel with the experts for a carefully curated, value-packed discovery of the world's most iconic destinations. Our tours are bursting with must-see sights, rich experiences and quality inclusions, all at an unbeatable price. Bucket list dreams are ticked off on these all-encompassing journeys.
Welcome to Buenos Aires. On arrival you will be met and transferred to your hotel. The remainder of the day is free to explore this beautiful city.
Hotel check-in time is at 3pm. If arriving prior to this, you will be able to leave your luggage with hotel reception and explore your surroundings until check-in becomes available. The hotel may grant early check-in, however this is strictly subject to availability and at the hotel’s discretion.
Following breakfast, your day is free to explore the city. This beautiful city, on the banks of the Río de la Plata, is a city of contrasts. You’ll find grand avenues with fine European architecture, and vibrant neighbourhoods buzzing with Latin American flair.
Alternatively you may wish to book a half day city tour:
Our tour starts in Palermo, a residential neighbourhood with attractions like the San Martiniano Institute, embassies, museums, and monuments. We then explore the Forests region, encountering the enchanting Rose Garden and the Monument "Carta Magna and the Four Regions of Argentina." Continuing along Avenue Del Libertador, we arrive at the exclusive neighbourhood of La Recoleta, where the famous cemetery and a variety of restaurants and cafes await. We pass through the elegant Avenida Alvear and reach the renowned Avenida 9 de Julio, home to the iconic Teatro Colon and Obelisco. Our next stop is the historic Plaza de Mayo, offering a photo opportunity and significant landmarks like the Metropolitan Cathedral, Government House, Cabildo, and Municipality. We continue south to the vibrant Tango neighbourhood of San Telmo, then venture further south to the colourful La Boca neighbourhood. Here, we visit the famous Caminito, a bustling area filled with artists. Heading back north, we visit the old port and witness its transformation before reaching the modern neighbourhood of Puerto Madero, where we enjoy a panoramic view. This concludes our tour, marking the start of a love affair with captivating Buenos Aires!
After breakfast, you will be transferred to the airport for your flight to Ushuaia. On arrival you will be met and transferred to your hotel for the night, in preparation for your expedition cruise tomorrow.
Known as the gateway to Antarctica, this small town boasts an array of restaurants serving typical Patagonian fare and delicious seafood. If time permits, why not visit the Museo Maritimo (not included) where you can experience the rich history of Tierra del Fuego. Discover the lives of indigenous peoples and the encounters with European seafarers during their expeditions. Uncover the stories of missionaries, ranchers, gold prospectors, and the explorers who set out from this remote land en-route to Antarctica.
Please note that your internal flights within South America have a luggage limit of 15kg per person (33lbs). Unfortunately, Inspiring Vacations cannot increase this limit and is limited by the airlines luggage policy. Any fees for excess baggage incurred at the airport will be the responsibility of the traveller and payable directly to the airline during check in.
The morning is free to explore town further or pick up any last minute essentials for your voyage.
Late this afternoon, embark onto the Ocean Endeavour and begin your Antarctic journey south, passing through the infamous Beagle Channel. Named after the famed ship on which Charles Darwin voyaged, the channel presents great photo opportunities of landscapes and seabirds.
Famed for its wild nature, the Drake Passage is unpredictable and always changing. Be sure to spend some time out on one of the Ocean Endeavour's many outer decks soaking up the fresh sea air and feeling the breeze of the roaring forties and furious fifties – waters not yet tamed even by the most intrepid of explorers. Your expedition team will provide insights into your exciting adventure that lies ahead. During the next two days on the sea, you will have plenty of time to gaze out at the Southern Ocean, capture photos of the birds circling the Ocean Endeavour and get to know your fellow travellers and expedition team.
Another day at sea as you get closer to the white continent. Keep your eyes peeled as you may start to view icebergs in the distance. What may initially appear as a blip on the horizon will slowly become larger as you approach, offering an amazing spectacle. Some smaller ice flows may even carry seals and penguins, drifting far out to sea. There is always great excitement on board when the first sighting of land appears, which with favourable sea and weather conditions will be early evening of your second full day at sea.
Your Antarctic adventure truly begins once you have left the Drake Passage behind and the South Shetland Islands come into view, a region that has long captured the attention of explorers. Every visit to Antarctica reveals something unexpected or new, meaning your expedition will be unlike any other – a unique and personal experience. During your time aboard the Ocean Endeavour, your expedition team and captain will scout for whales and seabirds and alert you to any new sightings. Enjoy in-depth explanations and lectures from your expedition team on the glaciology, history and wildlife of the region as you explore.
A typical day onboard begins with a wake-up call from your expedition leader around 7am, giving you time to prepare for the day before heading out on an excursion. You will usually have two excursions per day, one in the morning and one in the afternoon. Excursions include shore landings, giving you the opportunity to walk on Antarctic land and witness the spectacular scenery with a hike to a view point, or simply take the time to observe the wildlife up close. Cruise amongst the magical ice formations in zodiac boats, exploring the harbours and bays in search of wildlife life.
During the middle of the day, time to relax on board with a delicious lunch served on the Ocean Endeavour, as you cruise to your next destination within the peninsula.
Enhance your trip with one of the following add-ons (Space is limited and on request basis - pre-booking is essential)
These workshops serve as an excellent opportunity for individuals passionate about photography, regardless of their skill level, to enhance their learning experience on board. Participants can maximise their photography skills with the invaluable guidance provided by our expert advisors. During the workshops, dedicated Zodiac and photography guided landings are organised, allowing participants to capture breathtaking images. Accompanied by a photography guide, you will receive valuable tips and advice to help you capture that perfect shot.
A true wilderness experience as you stay overnight on the White Continent. Head to shore after dinner and sleep under the sky in a waterproof bivy bag. This activity is weather dependent and numbers are strictly limited.
As an alternative to the regular Zodiac trips, a limited number of passengers can take the option to Kayak instead. Kayak excursions are usually between 1.5 to 3 hours in duration and will take place when weather & water conditions permit while in Antarctic waters (maximum twice per day on expedition days). A good level of fitness is required and you must be comfortable getting in and out of a kayak.
A taste of the Kayaking option, booking a Day Paddle will allow you partake in one kayaking excursion of approximately 1.5 to 2 hours.
An opportunity to experience the thrill of Stand Up Paddleboarding in Antarctic waters. This option includes one excursion of approximately 1.5 to 2 hours in duration Inflatable SUPs and drysuits are provided.
Another magical day as you awake to the beauty of the ever changing landscapes. No two days are the same in this part of the world. Heading deeper into the peninsula you may visit places such as the Lemaire Channel, the Gerlache Strait and Deception Island.
Continue with excursions, in search of a huge variety of wildlife. As the micro climates of each bay and harbour differ at the varying latitudes, the ice formations and wildlife will also change with each day. There is never a dull moment for avid photographers or simply embrace the experience creating lifelong memories
Our final day exploring the peninsula and its many islands. Weather permitting embark on your final shore excursions or zodiac cruises before we commence our journey back across the Drake Passage.
The next 2 days will be spent making the journey back to Ushuaia. Keep an eye out for whales and Albatross as they often follow the ship as it returns north.
A final day at sea. Time to share memories with new found friends or take the opportunity to review your photographic efforts.
This morning time for one final breakfast before disembarking in Ushuaia. You will be transferred to the airport for your flight to Buenos Aires.
On arrival in Buenos Aires you will be met and transferred to your hotel. The remainder of the day is at leisure as you regain your land legs.
Today is yours at leisure to further explore Buenos Aires at your own pace.
For a taste of local culture why not book an evening Tango & Dinner show.
International cuisine, regional dishes, desserts and a wide selection of Argentine wines will be offered to accompany the La Ventana Tango show, where guests will experience the sensual dance of Tango, which reveals the spirit of Buenos Aires’ beginnings. All this held in a romantic and intimate atmosphere. Hotel transfers included.
After breakfast check out of your hotel. At the appropriate time you will be transferred to the airport for your onward flight.
We trust you have been inspired on this trip of a lifetime.
Check out: Check-out time is generally between 10am-12pm. You are welcome to leave your luggage at the hotel reception and spend your final moments of free time exploring the area or alternatively please speak with hotel staff if you would like to extend your check-out time.
The Ocean Endeavour offers a variety of cabins for your unforgettable trip to Antarctica, should you wish to upgrade please choose your cabin preference at the time of purchase;
Your package includes a category 5 or 6 cabin which will be allocated at the discretion of Ocean Endeavour
Category 5 (Main Twin) - (Comfort Twin) - INCLUDED (allocated at ships discretion)
Located on Deck 7 or Deck 8, this cabin features two lower berths or one double bed. One or two windows (partially or fully obstructed views). Cabins are approximately 13 sq.m with a flatscreen TV, refrigerator and private bathroom facilities.
Category 6 (Comfort Twin) - INCLUDED (allocated at ships discretion)
Located on Deck 4, this cabin features two single berth bedding. A larger cabin with a separate sitting area, at approximately 21 sq. m. Featuring two portholes (unobstructed views - please note that covers may be closed during sea days or during inclement weather as a safety precaution). Cabin has a flatscreen TV and private bathroom facilities.
Category 7 - From an additional $620 per person, twin share (Single from an additional $1,238)
Located on Deck 5, this cabin features two single berth bedding. A larger cabin with a separate sitting area, at approximately 20 sq. m. Featuring two windows (obstructed views). Cabin has a flatscreen TV, refrigerator and private bathroom facilities.
Category 8 (Superior) - From an additional $1,019 per person, twin share (Single from an additional $2,038)
Approximately 21 sq. m, two lower berth bedding, with a separate sitting area with two large windows (with unobstructed or partially obstructed views). On Deck 7 - Approximately 15 to 19 sq. m, one double bed, sofa and two large windows. Cabin has a flatscreen TV and private bathroom facilities.
Category 9 (Junior Suite) - From an additional $1,565 per person, twin share (Single from an additional $3,129)
Located on Deck 5 and Deck 7 featuring a double bed. This cabin type is at least 30 sq. m on Deck 5 and 22.5 sq. m on Deck 7. Bow or port-facing picture windows with unobstructed views. Separate sitting area with sofa, flatscreen TV and private bathroom facilities.
Please select this option to indicate your upgrade preference. Refer to pricing shown in the Cruise Details & Upgrades.
Please note: All upgrades are subject to availability. If your chosen cabin is not available we will provide alternate options.
COVID-19
Given the remoteness of Antarctica and the lack of access to medical facilities, Ocean Endeavour require a COVID-19 vaccination primary series for guests. (Minimum of two shots with booter strongly recommend). Unvaccinated persons can apply for a COVID vaccine exemption.
Fitness Requirements
While the tour itinerary should give you some guidance and overview to the expected requirements, to determine if this tour is right for you we categorise each of our tours in terms of their intensity. These guidelines are to ensure that each tour group is conducted as expected and to ensure the overall satisfaction of all Inspiring Vacations customers.
As a general rule, porterage is not included, therefore at all times you are expected to handle your own luggage where help may not be available.
This particular tour is categorised as a””
3 – Moderate Tour: A good level of fitness and mobility is required, as this tour includes a moderate level of physical activity and is considered a medium-fast paced tour. You should be able to walk up and down stairs, get on and off the coach and able to walk reasonable distances of approximately 2 kilometres per day or more with ease. Any physical ailments you may have must be disclosed at the time of booking to determine your suitability. If you have any form of walking aids, other than a walking stick or hiking poles, then this tour is not suitable.
Tipping
A friendly reminder that tipping is not included in your package. Tipping is not compulsory on your trip, but they can make a big difference to locals employed in the tourism industry. If you feel that your guide and driver have done an impeccable job, you can choose to give a gratuity, but this is entirely your decision.
Accommodation
The accommodation listed is subject to change. Any changes will be of an equal or higher standard. Bedding configurations (double or twin) are requests only. All efforts will be made to meet your preferences, however, any changes are beyond our control.
Single Supplement
Single supplement is $6,994.00 per person, in addition to the twin-share price.
Triple Share
Not available.
Travel Insurance
Travel insurance is recommended to protect yourself against the unexpected. In addition to the support that a policy may provide, you may be asked to present a copy of your travel insurance documentation while traveling.
We have partnered with nib to offer our customers competitive rates for their travel insurance. You can book Comprehensive or Essentials cover for your domestic, international or multi-trip journeys simply by clicking HERE.
Note that Inspiring Vacations cannot provide advice with regards to any insurance product.
Visa & Passport information
It is the traveller's responsibility to ensure they have a valid passport. The passport must be valid for a minimum of six months from the intended date of return.
Visas may be required.
Please note that these details are subject to change without notice. We recommend visiting https://smartraveller.gov.au for up to date information in terms of entry requirements.
Group Size
Maximum of 200 people on Antarctica cruise
Children
Children must be 5 years old or above and share a room with parents at all times. Children are charged the same price as adults.
Tour Style
To meet the needs of various types of travelers, we choose to operate various types of tours, and depending on your selected package will mean different services are provided throughout your trip. The following descriptions of each tour style we hope will ensure that each traveller has appropriate expectations before they start their travels:
To enhance your journey, we are offering guests a choice of the following optional activities (prices are per person):
Optional tours can be selected once you have finalised your tour purchase and paid your deposit. When completing your Passenger Booking Form, you will be asked if you would like to add Optional Tours, where any applicable cost will be added to your final balance. If you choose not to select them at this time, you can choose to add them later by logging in to your Account online.
Please note that you must select your Optional Tours no later than 70 days before departure, after which you will be required to purchase them on tour. Please keep in mind that anything purchased on-tour is subject to availability and prices may vary as you will be paying in local currency. We appreciate your understanding.
This package is sold as land only, however you do have the option of adding domestic & international airfares to your booking. Simply click on’ book now’, and under upgrades , you will be asked “Would you like us to contact you around our flight service?”. By selecting this option Inspiring Vacations will contact you to discuss adding flights to your chosen destination. We can then assist with turning your booking into a flight inclusive package.
Upon completing the purchase of your package and fulfilling the following booking requirements, you will be granted access to our flight portal via your Traveller Hub.
Once these criteria have been met, access will be made available to you via Traveller Hub to book your flights via our flight portal.
The following requests are able to be processed through the online flight portal:
The online flight portal is unable to process the following requests and you must book these yourself independently:
Online check-in
Some airlines may not permit online check-in where flights have been booked by a travel company. Where unavailable to do so online, you will be required to check-in at the airport. Inspiring Vacations cannot check-in online on behalf of our customers
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