Itinerary:
Day One: Buenos Aires, Argentina
Welcome to Argentina. Make your way from the airport to the hotel and begin your Antarctic Explorer adventure with an overnight stay in Buenos Aires.
If you have time during the day, explore the boulevards, galleries and European architecture of Buenos Aires. In the evening, you may like to head out for a steak dinner with your new travel companions.
Please note, no arrival transfer is included in Buenos Aires. Please make your own way to the joining hotel.
Day 2: Ushuaia - Embarkation Day (B, D)
After breakfast at the hotel, the group will transfer to the airport and board their private charter flight to Ushuaia, Argentina.
Upon arrival, you will have a little time to explore this quaint port town before heading to the pier. Embarkation will occur in the late afternoon, after which your vessel will sail down the historic Beagle Channel. This famous channel transects the Tierra del Fuego archipelago in the extreme south of South America. Expect an air of anticipation as you depart—the next time you’ll see land you’ll be in the world’s most southern continent.
Days Three & Four: Crossing the Drake Passage (B, L, D on both days)
Sail into the Drake Passage. This wide channel separates the bottom of South America from the tip of the Antarctic Peninsula, and was named after the English explorer, Sir Frances Drake. We hope for smooth sailing through the waterway, but be prepared for possible rough seas. On-board presentations and safety briefings by the expedition team will provide you with an insight into the locations you'll be visiting.
Meals Included
Days Five to Seven: South Shetland Islands and Antarctic Peninsula (B, L, D on all days)
Welcome to the Antarctic Peninsula. The next few days form the core of your Antarctic adventure, as you take regular Zodiac excursions from the ship to explore different bays, channels and landing sites each day. Visit penguin rookeries, scout for humpback and minke whales and search for a number of the southern seal species, including the cunning leopard seal.
Days Eight & Nine: Drake Passage (B, L, D on both days)
The journey back across the Drake Passage provides final opportunities to enjoy the crisp Antarctic air. Spend time on the deck, watching for seabirds and scouting for whales, enjoy presentations by your Expedition Team, or simply relax and reminisce about your experiences.
Day 10: Disembark in Ushuaia (B)
You will arrive in Ushuaia in the morning, after breakfast. After disembarking, you will get a little taste of Patagonia, touring Tierra del Fuego National Park before transferring to the airport for the return group charter flight to Buenos Aires
Special Information:
The trip ends on arrival at Buenos Aires, Ministro Pistarini Airport (EZE). The charter flight will arrive in Buenos Aires at approximately 5.00pm.
The following Optional Activities are available to participate in, on some or all of the departures of this itinerary. These must be booked in advance (additional costs apply) and space is limited:
- Kayaking - Our kayaking adventures are the best way to feel at one with the sea. Taken in small groups of maximum 16 people, multiple times per voyage, kayaking adventures are only conducted during calm weather conditions. Kayaking is open to all levels of experience, however kayaking in the polar waters is not suitable for novice kayakers. Beginners interested in kayaking should first take an introductory course prior to the voyage which includes how to do a wet exit. In addition regardless of your experience, we recommend you take part in some kayaking practise prior to the voyage to ensure that you are comfortable on the water in the icy conditions.
- Stand up paddleboarding - Combining surfing with kayaking or canoeing, stand-up paddleboarding will give you a very personal and unique perspective on Antarctica. This activity is taken in small groups in good weather conditions on calm bays and harbours, with a Zodiac following for your safety.
Included Optional Activities:
Photography - Antarctica is one of the most abundantly photogenic destinations in the world. Penguins amble across pebbled beaches, whales spy-hop from the crystal blue sea and sparkling icebergs tower in this serene, yet dramatic environment. Whether you own a serious SLR or a simple point-and-shoot, our on-board photography expert provides you with hands-on instruction and technical tips to ensure that you capture the best of your Antarctica experience.
About Ocean Endeavour:
Ocean Endeavour is a comfortable, well-appointed small expedition ship expertly engineered to explore the Polar Regions. The ship has an ice-strengthened hull, Zodiacs for exploration and remote landings, and advanced navigation equipment. The newly-refurbished vessel offers a superb guest experience with an expansive choice of cabin categories, large common areas, a sundeck and observation area, plenty of deck space for polar landscape viewing, and lounges for learning and reflection. The ship’s interiors have a contemporary aesthetic that provides a bright and spacious feel throughout.
About Tayla Made Holidays:
With over 30 years' travelling experience, Tayla Made Holidays is passionate about the world around us. Whether you're on a business trip or you are planning your dream holiday, they can ensure that you have the right information. From the best time of the year to travel, through to what to expect during your stay, Tayla Made Holidays will be able to make your travels an experience of a lifetime.
Includes:
- Return airfares Auckland to Buenos Aires
- Meals as mentioned on cruise only (not in Buenos Aires)
- Transport
- Accommodation
Excludes:
- Visa
- Travel insurance
- Personal expenses
- Anything else not mentioned in itinerary
Departure Dates:
