Antarctica humpback whales wildlife spotting

Antarctic Whale Journey with Intrepid Travel

Bite-sized trip

Itinerary:
Ushuaia - Antarctica - Ushuaia
Duration:
11 days / 10 nights (flexible)
Price:
From £7,550 per person (excluding flights)

Want the chance to see spectacular Antarctic sea life and follow whales as they migrate south for the winter? This 11-day Antarctic Whale Journey offers the opportunity of a lifetime for wildlife lovers, increasing the likelihood of spotting orcas, minke and humpback whales during an adventure on the Antarctic Peninsula. You’ll be in the very capable hands of our partners at Intrepid Travel, staying one night in a hotel in Ushuaia and nine nights aboard their Ocean Endeavour ship. With comfortable ship quarters, an onboard team of polar experts and wellness services, this is the best way to discover the majestic beauty of the Antarctic Peninsula and its inhabitants.

Antarctica humpback whale wildlife spotting

Days 1-2 – Welcome to Ushuaia

Welcome to Ushuaia, Argentina, the world’s southernmost city. You’ll be briefed at the hotel tonight on the journey and details for tomorrow’s embarkation, but if you happen to arrive early there are a surprising amount of ways to entertain yourself at ‘the End of the World’. Check out the Museo Maritimo to brush up on the region’s history, or take a stroll down Avenida San Martin if you’re after any last-minute essentials before departing. Oh, and did we mention this is Argentina – if all else fails, head to a local restaurant to get your fill of red wine and steak. Muy bueno.

Days 2-4 – Drake Passage

This afternoon, you’ll transfer to Ushuaia’s port to board the Ocean Endeavour, your home on the sea during your Antarctic adventure. After meeting your fellow passengers and settling into your cabin, set sail through the historic Beagle Channel towards Antarctica. Soak up the incredible views as you glimpse your last sight of non-polar land, then head inside to join the excited chatter about what’s to come. Spend two days travelling across the legendary waters of the Drake Passage, named after the famous English seafarer, Sir Frances Drake.

If conditions allow there’ll be a chance to enjoy the outer deck space and scout for dolphins, whales and the odd albatross passing by. A comprehensive optional lecture program will also get underway, with polar experts sharing some fascinating insights into Antarctic history, geology, biology and everything in between. If the weather is on your side, we should reach the Islands of the Antarctic Peninsula by early evening on Day 4 – the first sighting of land always brings great excitement on any expedition south.

Days 4-9 – Antarctica Peninsula

The Antarctic Peninsula is known for a high number of wildlife sightings in front of stunning backdrops of mountains, ice and water, which combine to provide incredible scenes as we look search for whales migrating along the coast. The peak of the migration season (February and March) is the best opportunity to see these majestic ocean dwellers, and the most common species found in the region are humpback, minke and fin whales, as well as orcas (technically a type of dolphin). Sightings can happen from the deck of the ship or during a Zodiac excursion.

Days 9-11 – Back through Drake Passage

Leaving Antarctica, you’ll cruise north to Ushuaia. This is your time to reflect on the amazing journey, and you’re scheduled to reach the relatively calm waters of the Beagle Channel by the evening of Day 9. The last meal together is often a highlight, so live it up and enjoy as you celebrate the trip with your fellow travellers. The next day you’ll disembark the ship after breakfast as your adventure comes to an end. Transfer to the airport is included for flights departing today.