Welcome to Montevideo, Uruguay! Your journey starts in this lively capital city steeped in culture and history. You have the flexibility to arrive at any time today. Transfer to your hotel, settle in, take some time to get comfortable, and then explore the city's charming streets. You can take a leisurely walk along the Rambla, visit the bustling Mercado del Puerto, or unwind in one of the many beautiful parks. Later, consider joining fellow travelers for dinner at a local parrilla, where you can share your enthusiasm about the adventure that lies ahead.

Today, hop aboard the Ocean Endeavour – your home for the next 21 days. Set sail towards the Falkland Islands, where your journey in Shackleton’s footsteps begins. Sir Ernest Shackleton is known as one of the greatest polar explorers, with one of the best survival stories that has ever touched the Antarctic (or the world). Shackleton led the British Imperial Trans-Antarctic Expedition between 1914 and 1916, planning to cross Antarctica from a base on the Weddell Sea towards McMurdo Sound via the South Pole. Unfortunately, their ship Endurance became trapped in ice off the Caird Coast, and this began the epic story of survival for Shackleton and his men – all of whom survived due to the skill, optimism, and extraordinary leadership of their team and Captain.

With nothing but you and the big blue for the next couple of days, take advantage of all the amenities and activities on board your fully equipped expedition vessel. Brush up on your history in the library, relax in the spa and sauna, or watch the ice floes pass you by on the sundeck. Look up, and you might spot one of the huge albatrosses along their migration route. Keep your eyes peeled for breaching whales and other marine mammals in the southern oceans, and cozy up with a drink while you get to know your shipmates at the bar. There will also be a series of lectures and presentations throughout the day, which will be available to educate you about the local geography, environment, and wildlife you can expect along the way. These are a great way to prepare for your expedition, so take it all in while you hear from an expert team highlighting the dramatic history and wildlife encounters that may await you.

As you approach the ruggedly beautiful Falklands archipelago, have your camera ready to capture the abundant wildlife and incredible scenery. The two main islands (East Falkland and West Falkland) have much to offer and provide a rare opportunity to witness the biological diversity, extraordinary landscape, and history of the southern islands. The Falklands are a wildlife photographer’s dream and have the largest Black-browed albatross colony in the world and five species of penguins that breed on the islands. Learn about the intriguing and controversial history of the Falkland Islands as you explore the quaint capital of Stanley. Near the town, you may see southern Giant petrels, Falkland steamer ducks, Kelp gulls, or Dolphin gulls (calling all birdwatchers!). There are also Black-crowned night herons, Red-backed hawks, Peregrine falcons, and Turkey vultures. Witness dramatic landscapes, including wetlands, lakes, and some rolling peaks, as you explore the other stunning islands in the archipelago. Weather permitting, this will include Saunders Island, the second-largest island in the Falklands. The Neck, a narrow peninsula with sandy beaches and subtle cliffs, is home to Gentoo, Magellanic, King, and Rockhopper penguins.

Farewell the Falkland Islands and prepare for what lies ahead in South Georgia – fascinating history, geology, and wildlife. You can scan the horizon from the outer decks for seabirds and underwater silhouettes. You can have another chance to attend expert team presentations highlighting the area's dramatic history, extraordinary marine wildlife encounters, and much more. These days at sea are a great opportunity to swap stories with fellow expeditioners, whether in the jacuzzi or over lunch at Polaris restaurant.

Arrive in South Georgia, where dark volcanic beaches are backgrounded across the island by hanging glaciers and local King penguins nest among Tussock grass. Over the next few days, explore the island, once the homestead of whalers and isolated explorers – now a protected area with dedicated Antarctic research teams. Learn more about Sir Ernest Shackleton’s story on your various excursions to land. On these very shores in South Georgia, Shackleton landed his crew of the James Caird in search of help for his party, who were stranded back on Elephant Island.

Take panoramic views from the observation lounge and spacious decks, or make the most of the onboard facilities during your days at sea. Whether you’re looking for a quiet place to reflect or somebody to help you edit your photos of the penguin colonies, the Ocean Endeavour has something for you. Rejuvenate
mind and body with one of the relaxing wellness facilities onboard. Get the blood pumping at the gym, join a ‘floe’ yoga and meditation class, or indulge in a massage or facial at the spa. The ship is yours to explore!

Voyage south towards continental Antarctica. Your days will begin with a wake-up call from your Expedition Leader around 7 am, which gives you time to prepare for the day before joining your fellow expeditioners for breakfast. Usually, you have two excursions daily – one in the morning and one in the afternoon, with lunch in between. Enjoy copious wildlife, small group outings on the Zodiacs, and unforgettable vistas for the next four days at every turn. With multiple landing sites available, your Ocean Endeavour crew will find the best places to stop, considering the elements, accessibility, and potential for wildlife sightings. There may also be the chance for snowshoeing, sea kayaking, or a camping adventure – the paid excursions (all weather and time-of-year dependent) can make for some of the greatest memories. Well-known sites like Neko Harbour, Orne Harbour, and Paradise Bay will also be on the Captain’s radar.

Settle back into life at sea as you prepare for the return journey across the Drake Passage. The Ocean Endeavour will track north towards Cape Horn and your destination in Ushuaia, Argentina. During this time, you can attend more onboard lectures and travel talks and enjoy the voyage slideshow, including images taken by the Expedition Photographer – yours to enjoy and share after your expedition. Now is also the chance to catch up with your shipmates and share stories about your voyage over a meal or a drink at the bar.

This morning, say goodbye to the Ocean Endeavour as you disembark in Ushuaia. A transfer to Ushuaia Airport or downtown is included if you depart today.