Including return international flights, all accommodation with 10 nights aboard the Ocean Endeavour ship, delicious daily breakfast, Zodiac landing experiences, shore excursions, on-board lectures, and more.
Antarctica is in a league of its own. No other place on the planet comes close to rivalling this frozen frontier’s untamed landscapes, pristine environment and majestic wildlife. Tick off this true bucket list experience with a 17 day Best of Antarctica expedition cruise.
So how do you get to Antarctica? Fly into Buenos Aires, the lively capital of Argentina. Meander the elegant streets of this beautiful city on a guided tour and then board a flight to Ushuaia the following day. Ushuaia is an idyllic resort town that doubles as a launching pad for Antarctic expeditions; it sits on the southernmost tip of Argentina and as such has garnered the nickname, the ‘End of the World’.
It is from Ushuaia where you first step foot on the Ocean Endeavour, the state-of-the-art polar expedition ship that will be your floating home for the next 10 nights. Not only is the Ocean Endeavour armed to navigate the waters between Argentina and Antarctica, but it is also one of the only ships with health- and wellness-focused facilities. Passengers have use of spa amenities, a sauna and a gym with yoga classes. Plus there is also a well-stocked library and a program of educational lectures and presentations.
The Ocean Endeavour crosses the Drake Passage first. This body of water between Cape Horn and the South Shetland Islands is named after Sir Francis Drake, the renowned 16th-century English explorer, and is one of the most infamous sections of the expedition. Tip: those prone to a queasy stomach should pack extra motion sickness tablets. The reward for negotiating the Drake Passage is the opportunity to see the likes of orca whales and albatross, and, of course, reaching the Antarctic Peninsula. The Ocean Endeavour glides through the Peninsula’s waters, moving between icy bays and untouched channels; passing sprawling glaciers and craggy mountain escarpments. Weather permitting, you will clamber into the Zodiacs to make shore landings (aided by the expert crew) and perhaps even visit local penguin rookeries. Listen out for the sound of calving glaciers breaking off as you stand on deck and commit the awe-inspiring outlook to memory – or the camera roll of your smartphone. You have four days to soak up the serenity and magic of the Antarctic Peninsula before the Ocean Endeavour begins its return voyage to the South American mainland. Upon disembarkation, bid goodbye to fellow travellers and the crew and enjoy a full day of free time in Buenos Aires before flying home to Australia.
Want to visit another out-of-this-world destination on this trip? Opt to extend the experience to a 27 day itinerary to discover the astounding history of Machu Picchu and the untouched natural bounty of the Galapagos Islands.
Day 1: Australia – 
– Buenos Aires
Set out for the airport and catch a flight to Buenos Aires. You will be met upon arrival in Argentina and transferred to the hotel.
Please note that some flights may depart 1 day earlier.
For those purchasing the Tour Only option, your tour starts today. Please make your own way to the hotel.
Day 2: Buenos Aires (B)
Your first full day in Argentina sees you head out on a city tour of Buenos Aires. This excursion is an unbeatable introduction to this buzzing and vibrant city, as you learn about its old and contemporary history. See Buenos Aires’ highlights, from downtown and La Boca to San Telmo, Palermo and Recoleta. Learn about the architectural history of this elegant city and get a glimpse into local culture.
Day 3: Buenos Aires – – Ushuaia (B)
A transfer takes you to the airport for a flight to Ushuaia, the southernmost tip of South America. It is also nicknamed the ‘End of the World’. You will be met upon arrival and taken to the hotel. This evening, attend a briefing in preparation for embarkation tomorrow. Any spare time can be spent wandering through the displays at the Museo Marítimo y del Presidio de Ushuaia or strolling down Avenida San Martin to stock up on any last-minute supplies for the expedition.
Day 4: Ushuaia – Ocean Endeavour (B, D) 
Embarkment on the Ocean Endeavour begins this afternoon. There is time to settle into your cabin as the ice-strengthened vessels departs for the voyage down the Beagle Channel. Revel in the sense of anticipation knowing that the next time you see land, it will be Antarctica.
Days 5 – 6: Drake Passage (B, L, D)
The expedition crosses the Drake Passage, the stretch of water named for Sir Francis Drake. Depending on the conditions, you may choose to be spend time out on the ship’s deck on the lookout for local wildlife – dolphins, orcas and albatross – or sit down to one of the lectures offered by the expert crew. The Ocean Endeavour’s world-class facilities mean there is no shortage of things to do. This is one of the only polar expedition ships with a focus on health and wellness, and the vessel comes kitted out with spa facilities, yoga studio, gym, saunas and a panoramic flydeck.
Days 7 – 10: Antarctic Peninsula (B, L, D)
Experience four unforgettable days exploring the vastness of the Antarctic Peninsula. Along the way you’ll move past frozen glaciers, looming mountains, majestic bays and epic channels. Your discovery of the region is done by both Zodiac landings (guided by the crew) and on foot. As well as marvelling at the untamed landscapes you may also encounter some of the area’s residents – penguins, humpback and minke whales, and perhaps even leopard seals. Please note that landing sites visited will be determined by weather conditions.
Days 11 – 12: At Sea (B, L, D)
The Ocean Endeavour leaves the Antarctic Peninsula as it begins the return voyage to Ushuaia. Now is the time to swap photos and tales with your fellow explorers, and enjoy final lectures. You may also want to make one last visit to the ship’s spa, sauna, heated pool or yoga studio.
Day 13: Ushuaia – – Buenos Aires (B)
The Ocean Endeavour returns to the mainland and you disembark. Say goodbye to the crew and other travellers and board a flight back to Buenos Aires. Once you have landed back in the capital, you will be met and transferred to the hotel.
Day 14: Buenos Aires (B)
You have all today as free time.
Day 15: Buenos Aires – – Australia (B)
A transfer takes you to the airport as you begin the return journey to Australia.
For those purchasing the Tour Only option, at the appropriate time please make your own way from the hotel to your next travel arrangements.
Day 16: In-flight
Day 17: Australia
Arrive back home in Australia today.
Day 1: Australia – – Buenos Aires
Set out for the airport and catch a flight to Buenos Aires. You will be met upon arrival in Argentina and transferred to the hotel.
Please note that some flights may depart 1 day earlier.
For those purchasing the Tour Only option, your tour starts today. Please make your own way to the hotel.
Day 2: Buenos Aires (B)
Your first full day in Argentina sees you head out on a city tour of Buenos Aires. This excursion is an unbeatable introduction to this buzzing and vibrant city, as you learn about its rich history and exciting present. See Buenos Aires’ highlights, from downtown and La Boca to San Telmo, Palermo and Recoleta. Learn about the architectural history of this elegant city and get a glimpse into local culture.
Day 3: Buenos Aires – –Ushuaia (B)
A transfer takes you to the airport for a flight to Ushuaia, the southernmost tip of South America. It is also nicknamed the ‘End of the World’. You will be met upon arrival and taken to the hotel. This evening, attend a briefing in preparation for embarkation tomorrow. Any spare time can be spent wandering through the displays at the Museo Marítimo y del Presidio de Ushuaia or strolling down Avenida San Martin to stock up on any last-minute supplies for the expedition.
Day 4: Ushuaia – Ocean Endeavour (B, D)
Embarkment on the Ocean Endeavour begins this afternoon. There is time to settle into your cabin as the ice-strengthened vessels departs for the voyage down the Beagle Channel. Revel in the sense of anticipation knowing that the next time you see land, it will be Antarctica.
Days 5 – 6: Drake Passage (B, L, D)
The expedition crosses the Drake Passage, the stretch of water named for Sir Francis Drake. Depending on the conditions, you may choose to be spend time out on the ship’s deck on the lookout for local wildlife – dolphins, orcas and albatross – or sit down to one of the lectures offered by the expert crew. The Ocean Endeavour’s world-class facilities mean there is no shortage of things to do. This is one of the only polar expedition ships with a focus on health and wellness, and the vessel comes kitted out with spa facilities, yoga studio, gym, saunas and a panoramic flydeck.
Days 7 – 10: Antarctic Peninsula (B, L, D)
Experience four unforgettable days exploring the vastness of the Antarctic Peninsula. Along the way you’ll move past frozen glaciers, looming mountains, majestic bays and epic channels. Your discovery of the region is done by both Zodiac landings (guided by the crew) and on foot. As well as marvelling at the untamed landscapes you may also encounter some of the area’s residents – penguins, humpback and minke whales, and perhaps even leopard seals. Please note that landing sites visited will be determined by weather conditions.
Days 11 – 12: At Sea (B, L, D)
The Ocean Endeavour bids the Antarctic Peninsula goodbye as it begins the return voyage to Ushuaia. Now is the time to swap photos and tales with your fellow explorers and enjoy final lectures. You may also want to make one last visit to the ship’s spa, sauna, heated pool or yoga studio.
Day 13: Ushuaia – – Buenos Aires (B)
The Ocean Endeavour returns to the mainland and you disembark. Say goodbye to the crew and other travellers and board a flight back to Buenos Aires. Once you have landed back in the capital, you will be met and transferred to the hotel.
Day 14: Buenos Aires (B)
You have all today as free time.
Day 15: Buenos Aires – – Cusco (B)
You will be picked up and transferred to the airport for a one-way flight to Cusco, Peru. A transfer takes you to the city-centre hotel for check in. Cusco was an epicentre of the Inca Empire and is a destination for tourists to discover the city’s archaeological remains and Spanish colonial architecture. You may have time to begin uncovering Cusco’s charms, from Plaza de Armas and its arcades and ruins, to Santo Domingo Convent, which is located atop of the former site of the Incan Temple of the Sun (Qorikancha).
Day 16: Cusco (B)
Today is free time. Cusco is South America’s oldest continuously inhabited city and is brimming with ancient sites to see and admire.
Day 17: Cusco – Ollantaytambo – Aguas Calientes (B)
Head to the railway station to board a train that takes you to Aguas Calientes, the town known as the gateway to Machu Picchu. This journey takes about one hour and sees you travel across a breathtaking landscape. You will spend the night in Aguas Calientes. The town is surrounded by thermal hot springs, forests and rivers; there are no roads leading in or out.
Day 18: Aguas Calientes – Machu Picchu – Cusco (B)
It is an early start to the day as your guides pick you up for the short bus journey to the entry-point for Machu Picchu. Join a two-hour guided walking tour upon entering the ancient citadel to learn about its incredible history. Meet your guide back down in Aguas Calientes in the afternoon and then take the transfer to the train station for the return journey to Cusco via Ollantaytambo.
Day 19: Cusco – – Lima – – Guayaquil (B)
Board a one-way flight to Lima and then a connecting flight to Guayaquil, a port city in Ecuador that is a popular launchpad for expeditions to the Galapagos Islands. A transfer meets you in Guayaquil and takes you to the hotel.
Day 20: Guayaquil – Baltra – Puerto Avora – Isabela Island (B)
Ready to explore the wonders of the Galapagos Islands? Board a morning flight to the island of Baltra and then head to Puerto Avora, the biggest town in the archipelago. From here, a fast boat whisks you to Isabela, the Galapagos’ largest island and the location of the most volcanic activity reported in the area. The island is made up of six volcanoes; of which five are still active.
Day 21: Isabela Island (B, L)
Begin the day with a walk to the crater edge of Sierra Negra, driving from Puerto Villamil to the trailhead to reach the hike’s departure point. You will be carrying backpacks, and this walk is suitable to most fitness levels. Your destination is the rim of Sierra Negra Crater. This active volcano last erupted in October 2005 and walking the circumference of the lava-filled crater is sure to be a highlight. The group may then continue the hike to Volcan Chico, another crater boasting puffing fumaroles and examples of the lava formations that helped forge the wider archipelago. You have the afternoon as leisure time. Use it to take up one of the optional activities or explore independently.
Day 22: Isabela Island (B)
Today you will visit several sites that tick off one of the Galapagos’ greatest tourist draws: its wildlife. Visit the Isabela Tortoise Breeding Centre to see its giant Galapagos tortoise, and stop at a local waterhole to see a flock of pink flamingos in their natural habitat. Head to Las Tintoreras Islet in the afternoon. You might spot blue-footed boobies along the away, as these birds often gather on the rocks along the coastline. Once at the islet you’ll be greeted by turquoise waters inhabited by white-tipped reef sharks, Galapagos penguins, sea lions and turtles. Also here is a mangrove that is one of only a handful of locations known to be a marine iguana breeding ground. Slip on a snorkel and wade into the waters for your chance to explore the underwater world. Don’t be surprised if some of the inquisitive penguins come closer to say hello.
Day 23: Isabela Island – Santa Cruz Island (B)
Embark on a fast boat ride to travel from Isabela Island to Santa Cruz Island. Check in at the hotel and then head out to the Charles Darwin Research Station to learn more about the area’s endemic wildlife species. You’ll also hear about ongoing conservation and management works. There is a trip to ‘El Chato’ Reserve in the Santa Cruz highlands afterwards. The reserve is home to the iconic Galapagos tortoise, and your visit here is your opportunity to experience the beauty of the island alongside this lumbering land-lubbers. Other wildlife you might see on your stroll include pintail ducks, egrets, finches and flycatchers. You might also spot frigate birds. Return to Puerto Avora for an evening of leisure time.
Day 24: Santa Cruz Island – Baltra – Guayaquil (B)
Enjoy your final breakfast while in the Galapagos Islands and take some last-minute photos of the landscape and wildlife. Travel by transfer to the airport and catch a flight back to the mainland. You will be transferred to your Guayaquil hotel upon arrival.
Day 25: Guayaquil – – Australia (B)
Head to the airport to begin your return journey to Australia.
For those purchasing the Tour Only option, at the appropriate time please make your own way from the hotel to your next travel arrangements.
Day 26: In-flight
Day 27: Australia
Arrive back in Australia.
17 day Itinerary:
27 day Itinerary:
Highlights:
How to book:
Deposit Information:
Documentation: Documentation will be provided after final payment is complete and within 2-3 weeks of travel, including E-Ticket instructions, hotel confirmation, itinerary extension & optional tour confirmation (where applicable) and destination travel tips.
Tour Excludes: Travel Insurance, Visas, personal expenses, tipping, sightseeing entrance fees, anything not mentioned or ‘optional’ in the itinerary.
Triple Share: Not available
Children: Same price as adults. Min age 8 years.
Group size: cruise ship capacity is up to 200 guests.
Single Supplement:
17 day Best of Antarctica Expedition cruise with flights in a Porthole Twin cabin – $9,499
17 day Best of Antarctica Expedition cruise with flights in a Window twin cabin – $11,499
17 day Best of Antarctica Expedition cruise with flights in a Porthole Suite – $12,499
17 day Best of Antarctica Expedition cruise with flights in a Window Suite – $13,499
27 day Best of Antarctica with Buenos Aires, Galapagos Island & Machu Picchu in a Porthole Twin cabin – $10,499
27 day Best of Antarctica with Buenos Aires, Galapagos Island & Machu Picchu in a Window twin cabin– $12,499
27 day Best of Antarctica with Buenos Aires, Galapagos Island & Machu Picchu in a Porthole Suite – $13,499
27 day Best of Antarctica with Buenos Aires, Galapagos Island & Machu Picchu ina Window Suite – $14,499
Single Supplement cost is per person in addition to 1 x twin share price.
You can purchase your single supplement by clicking here.
Tour Only: To purchase this tour without flights, click here. By selecting this option, all flights including internal domestic flights and all airport transfers (if applicable) will be forfeited. Please refer to the live calendar to view and select Tour Only start date.
Accommodation: The accommodation listed below may be subject to change, but will remain of a similar or higher standard. Any changes remain beyond our control and all efforts are made to communicate these as soon as possible. We endeavour to always book non-smoking rooms however these cannot be guaranteed.
Buenos Aires: Tango de Mayo Hotel or similar
Ship: Ocean Endeavour or similar
Cusco: San Agustin Internacional Hotel or similar
Aguas Calientes: Inti Punku Machu Picchu Hotel or similar
Guayaquil: Wyndham Hotel or similar
Isabel Island: Casa de Marita or similar
Santa Cruz Island: Villa Laguna or similar
Bedding: 1 x double bed or 2 x single beds
Cruise: Ocean Endeavour
This is one of the few polar expedition ships in Antarctica with a focus on health and wellness, it also has an industry-leading ratio of one crew member for every eight travellers. This means you’ll enjoy a more personal, informative and comfortable trip. With spa facilities, saunas, a yoga studio, gym, library, wide range of cabin types, modern Zodiacs and 360° views from the unique flydeck, the Ocean Endeavour is quite literally the coolest way to take the trip of a lifetime.
Other Inclusions on the Ocean Endeavour:
Cabin Amenities:
Please note, some staterooms will get allocated a cabin number by the Cruise Company no earlier than within 30 days of sailing and any stateroom location requests cannot be guaranteed.
You can find more cabin information and deck plan via Ship Profile information tab or by clicking here.
National Park Fees:
27 Day Itinerary only: Galapagos National Park Fees: are not included and must be paid locally in USD as follows:
Galapagos National Park arrival fee: USD$100 per person
Galapagos National Park transit card fee: USD$20 per person
Optional Tours on board:
Kayaking – $1130 per person (previous or recent experience is essential).
Snowshoeing – $215 per person (subject to availability)
Photography programme – $1130 per person.
Optional tours have limited availability, they are also subject weather conditions and minimum numbers. The tours selling fast and cannot be guaranteed. Should the tour you have purchased be unavailable we will process a full refund of the tour cost back to your original form of payment.
Any Optional Tours purchased after your initial booking (and 65 days before departure) must be emailed to [email protected] to ensure your booking is correctly updated. Failure to do so may result in you not being accepted on this optional tour and your purchase will be refunded. Optional Tours requested within 60 days of travel will not be accepted.
You can purchase your optional tours by clicking here.
Itinerary: Weather, ice conditions and wildlife will all affect where your ship is able to access, and most importantly, where your Expedition Team think you will get the best possible experience from your trip. On board, daily updates are given to advise what the specific itinerary will be for the next day based on local conditions. Published itineraries cannot be guaranteed but an amazing voyage full of adventure and once-in-a-lifetime experiences is guaranteed.
Coach transportation: Where group sizes are not sufficient to use a full-sized coach, we reserve the right to use a smaller coach on the same level of comfort.
Tipping: If you have enjoyed the knowledge, service and expertise of your tour guide and driver, a tip (while not compulsory) is appropriate towards the end of your tour. While it may not be customary in Australia, tipping is entrenched into many cultures especially within the tourism industry globally. Optional gratuity is divided between the ship’s crew and hospitality staff. The following is provided to assist our guests:
Our past guests have left gratuities based on their overall service of USD $13-15 per day. For the expedition team between USD $3-5 per day. Both of these are entirely at your discretion Gratuities can be added to your onboard account at the end of the voyage or paid in cash on board.
Physical rating: Although you don’t need to be particularly fit to take part in an Antarctic expedition, you do need to have a good level of mobility. You must be able to complete the on board safety drills and emergency evacuation procedures unaided. Rolling seas and windy conditions require you to be stable on your feet while negotiating the ship over potentially slippery decks and gangways. The zodiacs are accessed via a gangway which is reached via some steep and narrow internal stairs. The Ocean Endeavour has a lift (elevator), but it does not access all decks so some stair climbing on board will be necessary.
On shore conditions will vary. Ice and snow underfoot can make conditions slippery. Some locations have steep climbs or long walks to reach a place of interest but wherever possible, the expedition guides will offer options of shorter or longer stays on shore, and varying levels of activity. The crew are on hand to assist passengers on and off the zodiacs at all landings.
It remains each passenger’s responsibility to inform Webjet Exclusives of any health or mobility issues that may impact the running of the tour, both for the safety of the passenger concerned and for other travellers in the group.
Travel Insurance: We strongly recommend that all customers purchase Travel Insurance as soon as they make a purchase on our website. Help cover yourself for the unexpected with Webjet Travel Insurance, we highly recommend it. Click here for a quote.
Visas: Visas are not included. It is the traveller’s responsibility to ensure they meet the visa requirements for the country they are visiting. Webjet Exclusives is unable to provide visa advice.
For Visa assistance, please visit Webjet’s Travel Visa Service page
Any deposits paid at the time of purchase are non-refundable.
$100 spending money offer valid for any Webjet Exclusives tour or resort booking made at www.exclusives.webjet.com.au. Eligible bookings will receive a unique account application link from Webjet Exclusives via email within 72 hours of making a booking. Any HSBC Everyday Global Account applications not made via this link or if the booking is cancelled, the offer will not be fulfilled/paid. One (1) offer will be paid per booking. The offer is a 100 AUD deposit into the newly opened HSBC Everyday Global Accounts and the activated Visa Debit card. The offer may take up to 6 weeks to be fulfilled/paid. Webjet Exclusives reserves the right to withdraw this promotion at any time. The email address entered at the time of booking will be used as the primary contact. Webjet Exclusives’ standard booking terms and conditions apply. For more information go to www.hsbc.com.au/accounts/offers/everyday-global/webjet/
2020:
2 November 2020
11 November 2020
20 November 2020
Peak season surcharges will apply to some dates, please see the availability calendar for more details
Bookings not accepted when within 65 days of departure
Availability on Departure Dates listed in Fine Print is subject to change. Live availability is shown on the availability calendar after clicking on the BOOK NOW button
Tour Only option – Navigate to the Fine Print tab and proceed to “click here” for Tour Only option to view live availability. Note, Tour Only option commences on Day 1 of the flight-inclusive itinerary.
Airline Information:
Flight Conditions:
Flight Options:
Date/Itinerary Variations:
Cabin/Class Upgrades (where applicable):
Tour Only:
Ocean Endeavour Ship
Ship Amenities:
Health and Wellness Amenities:
The Ocean Endeavour is the only polar expedition ship in Antarctica focused on health and wellness, and offers a contemporary approach to cuisine and newly designed health and fitness features:
Cabin Types:
Porthole Twin (category 4):
Window Twin (category 5):
Porthole Suite (category 6):
Window Suite (category 7):
