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Peregrine Travel Centre

Christmas in Antarctica (Ocean Endeavour)

Christmas in Antarctica (Ocean Endeavour)

From NZD $14,930

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Description

Take the Christmas holiday of a lifetime – an 11-day expedition exploring the wonders of Antarctica. Set foot on the Antarctic Peninsula, spot seals resting on the icefloe and witness seabirds nesting in landscapes that must be seen to be believed. Marvel at the surrounds of the ice-capped mountain ranges and be inspired as you explore bays filled with immense icebergs and glaciers. Visit penguin rookeries, spot minke and humpback whales and enjoy regular Zodiac excursions for up-close wildlife encounters. After a day of exploration, relax in in the ship’s heated saltwater pool, sauna or book into the health spa on board. Onboard experts, ample space and five-star lashings make this a Christmas adventure to remember.

Is this trip right for you?

Although our ice-strengthened ships are big and sturdy, the Antarctic waters can be unpredictable and rough. Some people may experience seasickness, especially through the Drake Passage and other open water crossings, so please be prepared with medications to combat this – we’d hate for you to miss a single minute of this journey. There is also a doctor on board should you need further assistance.

Believe it or not, temperatures in the Antarctic can be freezing. And yet it can get surprisingly warm when the sun comes out, for instance, or with increased physical activity. It’s best to dress in layers when you journey outside and we’ll provide you with waterproof boots that are sturdy, warm and highly fashionable (in Antarctica, at least). Please see the trip notes for information about what to bring.

Depending on the weather, you’ll be zipping around in a Zodiac boat quite regularly to explore the area and search for wildlife. It can get very cold and wet on the Zodiac, so make sure you dress appropriately and keep your camera safe and dry. Being cold and miserable is one thing, having no photos to show for it is another. Sturdy sea legs are needed for wet and dry landings from the boat, as well as on steep terrain, snow and other uneven surfaces. The Ocean Endeavour has a lift, but you’ll need to take the stairs to get to the gangway and some other parts of the ship that the lift does not provide access to.

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 that is planned for. A level of flexibility and openness to embracing the unexpected are important in expedition travel, especially in such a remote area. There are nearly 200 recognised sites in the Antarctic Peninsula and South Shetlands; the places mentioned in the itinerary may need to be changed to others (which are equally as interesting). We may also be confined to the ship during rough weather. The ship’s library and educational lectures are ideal ways to stay entertained, while the wellness spa, saunas, gym and yoga classes will keep you fresh for when the weather clears.

Trip Name
Christmas in Antarctica (Ocean Endeavour)
Days
11
Overview
Vessel Type: Expedition Length: 137m Passenger Capacity: 199 Built: 1982 - refurbished 2001, 2004, 2010, 2015, 2016, 2018 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 cabins and 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. Endeavour is also the only polar adventure ship in Antarctica focused on health and wellness , and offers a contemporary approach to cuisine and newly-designed health and fitness features. Facilities include a spa serviced by organic spa provider VOYA, His & Hers saunas, a salt water pool, a gym, and a juice and smoothie bar. Complimentary activities include yoga and stretching classes, an exclusive Polar Photography program, the Scientists in Residence program, and more adventure activities than any other Quark vessel. The ship also has a polar library, and a Polar Boutique for gifts and any needed gear. Features of the Ocean Endeavour   VOYA spa treatments and beauty products, Choice of 13 cabin categories, Bright, spacious cabins and common areas, Plenty of deck space for observation, Lounge with expansive views, Quiet zone for contemplation, Newly-refurbished restaurant, Contemporary dining with complimentary wine with dinner, Juice and smoothie bar, Lecture theater, Polar library, Polar boutique, Health and Wellness, Spa treatments and beauty products by spa provider VOYA - Organic Beauty From The Sea, Spa menu for face, body, hair and nails, including the exclusive Quark Explorer’s treatment, and signature VOYA hand and foot rituals, Yoga and stretching classes, His & Hers saunas, gym, and heated salt water pool Full range of adventure activities including: kayaking, camping, mountaineering, cross-country skiing, stand-up paddleboarding, Zodiac cruising, shore landings and hiking/ walking. Deck plan varies for the trips to Antarctica

Itinerary



Day 1 - Day 1: Ushuaia
Your Christmas trip begins in Ushuaia, about as far as you can get from Santa without joining an Antarctic expedition – luckily that’s exactly what’s going on. You’ll be transferred from the airport to the hotel to meet your fellow travellers, but if you arrive early we highly recommend checking out the area. Tierra del Fuego National Park can be visited on a day trip if you have time, otherwise Ushuaia itself has got a bit of a vibe about it. Check out the Museo Maritimo for a history lesson or maybe just take a stroll down Avenida San Martin to do pick up some last-minute essentials for the journey.Meals IncludedThere are no meals included on this day.
Day 2 - Day 2: Ushuaia – Embarkation Day
This afternoon you’ll be transferred to the city’s port to board the Ocean Endeavour. After meeting your fellow passengers and settling into your cabin, begin the journey by cruising through the famed Beagle Channel. Enjoy the incredible views as the last glimpse of land fades away and the ship heads south towards Antarctica.Meals IncludedBreakfastDinner
Day 3 - Days 3-4: Drake Passage
The waters of the Drake Passage are legendary. Named for Sir Frances Drake, an English seafarer, they’re notoriously rough but luckily the Ocean Endeavour is a far cry from the vessels of old. The journey will take two days and if conditions allow, you’ll be able to enjoy the outer deck to catch your first glimpse of dolphins, whales and orcas, as well as seabirds including the iconic albatross. It’s no bad thing if the weather is misbehaving as a comprehensive lecture program will get under way, with polar experts sharing some fascinating insights into Antarctica’s history, geology, biology and everything else in-between. The Ocean Endeavour is also equipped with state-of-the-art facilities including a gym, sauna and library. We’re scheduled to reach the Antarctic Peninsula by early evening on Day 4, which will be a moment of great excitement.Meals IncludedBreakfast (2)Lunch (2)Dinner (2)
Day 4 - Days 5-7: Antarctic Peninsula
Welcome to the Antarctic Peninsula, where a vast amount of wildlife can be found with a backdrop of ice, water and mountains. The sheer scale of everything must be seen to be believed. Scheduled twice daily, excursions are tailored to suit the ship’s location. Zodiac rides allow for closer encounters with marine life including whales and seals, while onshore exploration might take you to penguin rookeries or on an optional activity such as snowshoeing, kayaking and overnight camping (these must be booked prior to departure). The lecture program will continue throughout your time at the peninsula and the team of experts will be available to answer any questions you may have about the region.The landing sites visited will depend on the ship's location and weather conditions,.If an excursion is deemed unsafe due to weather conditions, the crew will arrange for alternative activities on the shop. These might include wildlife presentations and documentary screenings, or you can make the most of the wellness spa, heated pool and other facilities.Meals IncludedBreakfast (3)Lunch (3)Dinner (3)
Day 5 - Day 8: Christmas in Antarctica
If you’ve been dreaming of a white Christmas, this is as white as it gets. Has Santa made it from the North Pole to the South Pole? It’s time to find out. Enjoy the festive spirit on board the ship, with your presents coming in the form of yet more landings and wildlife sightings throughout the day. These wildlife encounters are likely to include Weddell, crabeater and leopard seals; gentoo, Adelie and chinstrap penguins, and elephant seals.Meals IncludedBreakfastLunchDinner
Day 6 - Days 9-10: Drake Passage
Leave Antarctica behind and cruise north to Ushuaia. Now is the time to reflect on the amazing journey and a truly unique Christmas. We’re scheduled to reach the waters of the Beagle Channel by the evening to ensure a restful night’s sleep before departure day. Our final meal together is often a highlight, so live it up and enjoy as you celebrate the journey with your fellow travellers.Meals IncludedBreakfast (2)Lunch (2)Dinner (2)
Day 7 - Day 11: Ushuaia
This morning you’ll disembark the ship after breakfast and your journey comes to an end. Transfer to the airport is included for flights departing today, but if you’re sticking around a little longer than there is so much to see in this incredible region. Adios!Meals IncludedBreakfast
Day 8 - Please Note:
Itineraries are subject to change.

Trip Dates

StartEndPrice FromRoom Type
18-12-202028-12-2020NZD $14,930Cabin Category 1
18-12-202028-12-2020NZD $14,930Cabin Category 3
18-12-202028-12-2020NZD $16,425Cabin Category 4
18-12-202028-12-2020NZD $19,415Cabin Category 6
18-12-202028-12-2020NZD $20,910Cabin Category 7
18-12-202028-12-2020NZD $22,405Cabin Category 8
18-12-202028-12-2020NZD $23,895Cabin Category 9
18-12-202028-12-2020NZD $25,390Cabin Category 10

Inclusions

    • The festive season is one of the most active times for wildlife and there are plenty of opportunities to see penguins, seals and whales under the midnight sun with our expert polar team leading the way.
    • Freezing is great but freedom is better. Customise your trip with a wide range of optional activities on top of regular Zodiac excursions. Explore the water by kayak, sign up for a photography masterclass, rejuvenate with some onboard yoga and a massage, take a refreshing polar plunge or camp overnight like a true polar explorer.
    • Whereas most polar expeditions of this kind have a crew-to-passenger ratio of ten, fifteen or twenty to one, Intrepid expeditions on the Ocean Endeavour have an expedition crew member for every 8 passengers for a greater personal touch.
    • Our experienced leaders have made hundreds of polar voyages between them. They’re experts in marine biology, glaciology and Antarctic history, and they’ll share their knowledge throughout the journey during a comprehensive lecture program.
    • Rest assured that footprints are all you’ll leave behind. Your Antarctica expedition is carbon offset, and we serve only sustainably sourced seafood, avoid single-use plastics and use biodegradable and phosphate-free cleaning products.
    • Travelling solo? This is your perfect Antarctic adventure, with single cabins at the same price as some twins.

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