Antarctic Explorer: Discovering the 7th Continent

Antarctic Explorer: Discovering the 7th Continent

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11 Days From

$17095

$14531

Antarctic Explorer: Discovering the 7th Continent

11 Days Starting and ending in Ushuaia

Visiting: Ushuaia, Argentina, Embarkation in Ushuaia, Crossing the Drake Passage, South Shetland Islands and Antarctic Peninsula, Disembarkation in Ushuaia

Tour operator:

Intrepid Travel

Tour code:

GQME

Group size:

1 - 138

Physical rating:

Low

Age range:

8-

Activities:

Canoeing-Kayaking

From: $17095 $14531 Operator discount: -$2564 -15%

NB: Prices correct on 25-Dec-2024 but subject to change.

Tour Overview

Uncover the landscape, wildlife and stillness of the remote Antarctic Peninsula on this 11-day adventure like no other. Conquer the famed Drake Passage, explore scenic natural environments and take daily Zodiac expeditions to the South Shetland Islands. Here, you can walk, hike and get up close to the colonies of penguins and birds that call this remote paradise home. Spot whales and seals, enjoy talks on history, biology and glaciology by your handy polar experts, and personalise your adventure with optional activities that suit your interests, like kayaking, snowshoeing and paddling. Take on this incredible journey and cross the 7th Continent off the list—your way.

Highlights

  • Discover an unspoiled wilderness, looking out for polar wildlife like penguins, seals, whales and seabirds from your onboard deck and during your onshore landings on the White Continent.

  • Cruise the Antarctic waters during daily Zodiac excursions and take advantage of a range of adventurous options, like kayaking, camping, photography and snowshoeing.

  • Benefit from various onboard activities, including educational lectures on history, geology and ecology by your expert expedition team. You can also luxuriate in the amazing onboard amenities, like the spa, sauna and bar!

  • Explore the highlights of the Antarctic Peninsula on an adventure from Ushuaia – the gateway to Antarctica – through the Drake Passage and the South Shetland Islands.

  • Immerse yourself in the icy realm of the Antarctic, with an optional paddling excursion where you can get up close and personal to the icebergs and see things from a totally unique perspective.

Itinerary

Expand All

Day 1: Ushuaia, Argentina

Location: Ushuaia, Argentina

Accommodation: 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 tomorrow!

Day 2: Embarkation In Ushuaia

Location: Embarkation in Ushuaia

Accommodation: Expedition ship

Meals Included: breaksfast, dinner

This afternoon, you’ll board your ship and your epic adventure south will begin! Take some time to settle into your cabin as you begin cruising the stunning Beagle Channel, named after the famed vessel 'The Beagle' that facilitated some of Charles Darwin's most significant voyages. The channel transects the Tierra del Fuego archipelago in the extreme south of South America, and you’ll wave goodbye to Argentina with the knowledge that the next time you see land, you’ll be gazing upon the White Continent of Antarctica.

Day 3-4: Crossing The Drake Passage

Location: Crossing the Drake Passage

Accommodation: Expedition ship

The infamous Drake Passage, named after the famous English explorer Sir Francis Drake, separates the tip of the Antarctic Peninsula from the southernmost tip of South America. It is often rough and turbulent but sometimes as calm as a lake. The next two days at sea offer time to attend a presentation or two given by your expedition team to prepare you for what lies ahead, from the geology of Antarctica to the history, wildlife and even the ice!

Sailing towards Antarctica, the temperature falls as you cross the Antarctic Convergence and enter the waters of the Antarctic Ocean. The Antarctic Convergence is marked by an increased number of seabirds, whales and other species that are attracted by the nutrient-rich waters pushed to the surface by the colder waters of the polar region flowing north and meeting the warmer equatorial waters flowing south.

Head out on one of the outer decks to look out for the mighty albatross that fly overhead. Scan the waters for breaching whales and icebergs or gaze out from the windows of the observation deck. Keep on the lookout for the first sighting of land early evening on day four – this is the White Continent!

Day 5-8: South Shetland Islands And Antarctic Peninsula

Location: South Shetland Islands and Antarctic Peninsula

Accommodation: Expedition ship

You’ll spend the next four days exploring the South Shetland Islands and Antarctic Peninsula – a region that has captivated explorers for centuries. Explore the region by Zodiac, cruising among the icebergs and making shore landings where you’ll see penguins, climb to vantage points for spectacular panoramic views, and maybe visit a scientific or historic base. There may even be opportunities to day-paddle and snowshoe.

Antarctica has incredible scenery, from imposing glaciers to towering snow-capped peaks, icebergs and ice-strewn channels. The wildlife ranges from extensive colonies of chinstrap, gentoo and Adelie penguins to crabeater, Weddell, fur and elephant seals and lots of birds. Look and listen for the mighty crack of a glacier calving. Maybe you’ll be one of the brave few to take a polar plunge into the icy Antarctic waters! Every day brings a new experience and new landing sites to explore.

As you cruise from one landing site to the next, enjoy the continued lecture program and take in the scenery from the outer decks.

An average day on board begins with a wake-up call from your Expedition Leader around 7 am, giving 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 onboard in between excursions. You’ll take Zodiac excursions from the ship to explore glaciated bays, channels and landing sites. Your Expedition Team will take care of you at each landing, whether you’re hiking the Antarctic landscape, visiting a research station or consorting with penguins.

Day 9-10: Crossing The Drake Passage

Location: Crossing the Drake Passage

Accommodation: Expedition ship

The next two days will be the journey back across the Drake Passage, with final opportunities to enjoy the crisp Antarctic air. Spend time on the deck, watching for seabirds and scouting for whales, watch presentations from your Expedition Team and celebrate the experiences shared exploring Antarctica.

Day 11: Disembarkation In Ushuaia

Location: Disembarkation in Ushuaia

Meals Included: breaksfast

Today, you’ll arrive in Ushuaia, where your adventure comes to an end. With no further activities planned, you’re free to leave at any time after disembarkation. If you’d like to extend your stay here, just speak to your booking agent ahead of time to organise additional accommodation.

Transport

Expedition cruise ship , zodiac

Accommodation

1 night comfortable hotel, 9 nights expedition cruise ship

Important Information

This trip is operated on either the World Explorer or Ocean Explorer ship. Please check the dates and availability section to see which which ship is used on each voyage.Your voyage is operated by our sister company, Quark Expeditions. All accommodation and transfer arrangements as listed in the itinerary are also operated by Quark Expeditions or their local representatives.One nights pre expedition hotel is included in Ushuaia. The exact hotel will be provided on your final documentation.Your trip finishes in Ushuaia at the port on day 11 in the morning after breakfast, please do not book onwards flights on this day untill after 12 pm midday."BOOKING CONDITIONSTo confirm your reservation, a deposit of 25% (unless indicated otherwise at time of booking) of the total invoice amount is required at time of booking. Balances are due 120 days prior to departure.Please refer to our ""Booking terms and conditions"" page on our website for all Quark Expedition terms and conditions, http://www.intrepidtravel.com/booking-intrepid/booking-conditions"ADVENTURE OPTIONSSea kayaking, camping and Padding excursions are available to book on the Ocean Explorer ship.Sea kayaking, camping, Stand Up Paddleboarding and Padding excursions are available to book on the World Explorer ship.Some activities must be booked prior to departure and incurs an additional cost. Spaces are limited so please enquire at time of booking.Camping is only offered on the early season voyages November, December and early January.

Check out our Q&As

  • Is this trip right for you

    The World Explorer and Ocean Explorer are both ice-strengthened ships – 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 a jacket that’s 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 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 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 of onboard resources and activities. The ship’s library and educational lectures are ideal ways to stay entertained, while the fitness centre, spa and pool 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)  

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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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13-Aug-2024

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Tuesday - Friday

Nov 04, 2025 - Nov 14, 2025
$17095 $14531

Operator discount: -$2564

Monday - Thursday

Dec 01, 2025 - Dec 11, 2025
$18295 $15551

Operator discount: -$2744

Wednesday - Saturday

Dec 10, 2025 - Dec 20, 2025
$18295 $15551

Operator discount: -$2744

Friday - Monday

Dec 19, 2025 - Dec 29, 2025
$19495 $16571

Operator discount: -$2924

Prices last published on 24-Dec-2024

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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