A lot of us say we're open to new experiences – to putting the map aside, tasting the strange, diving into the deep end – but how open are we really?
A lot of us say we’re open to new experiences – to putting the map aside, tasting the strange, diving into the deep end. But how open are we really?
If you’re the type of person who’s constantly chasing the thrill of the unknown, Intrepid's new one-off Uncharted Expedition might be just the adventure you’re looking for. Why? Because on this departure, you won’t know where you’re going. We’ll give you start and finish points, but everything in between will remain a mystery until you get there.
One day you could be exploring a 3000-year-old volcanic village; the next, fossicking for post-Soviet memorabilia at an open-air flea market, then learning an ancient language that doesn’t involve speech.
You’ll need to embrace your inner explorer, trust your own adventurous traits, and join us on a journey that is undefined, unmapped, and uncharted. You’ll need to be Intrepid. In fact, you’ll need to be the most Intrepid.
Join us aboard the Ocean Endeavour for an extraordinary voyage to the Antarctic Peninsula in search of humpback and minke whales, seals and penguins. Meet WWF-Australia’s team of scientists and explorers and spend your days learning about their mission to protect Antarctica’s whale populations. Explore the ice-filled waters by Zodiac then set foot on the rock and ice that makes up this mysterious continent. With a scientific focus on preserving Antarctic wildlife, this is a journey you’ll carry with you for a lifetime.
Spots are limited.
A unique expedition in partnership with WWF-Australia
On the surface, Antarctica’s pristine landscapes may appear untouched but look beneath the waves and you’ll find this beautiful wilderness is under threat. As climate change and krill fishing increase in the Antarctic, local whale populations face growing challenges to their food chain and survival.
Most of the world’s large whale species are found in the Antarctic, among a diverse marine ecosystem of over 9,000 species, more than half of which are seen nowhere else in the world. Now, more than ever, learning more about Antarctica’s whale population is key to their survival. New technologies are helping scientists better understand and map the most important areas where whales feed, so we can protect them before it’s too late.
WWF-Australia, with the support of Intrepid Travel, is collaborating with a team of ecologists to carry out a non-invasive whale research project aboard the Ocean Endeavour designed to grow our understanding of these fascinating creatures.
Protecting the giants of Antarctica
DAYS 1-4
Cross the infamous Drake Passage
Named after the famous English explorer, Sir Francis Drake, this passage of water between Ushuaia and the Antarctic Peninsula is an adventure in its own right. Meet the team of scientists onboard and learn about their conservation mission with insightful seminars. They’ll be joined by our regular team of geologists, biologists and historians. If conditions are calm, enjoy time out on deck spotting dolphins, orcas and albatross.
DAYS 5-8
Explore the Antarctic Peninsula
Spend four incredible days exploring the Antarctic Peninsula with a team of experts. Accompanied by WWF-Australia's researchers, you’ll have the opportunity to learn about non-invasive whale tracking and get incredible insight into the mysteries of whale migrations, feedings and lives beneath the water’s surface. Explore landing sites, bays and channels on Zodiac excursions, keeping a keen eye out for penguin rookeries and whales who greet the surface. Make the most of optional activities, including kayaking and snowshoeing, or choose a slower pace and relax at the onboard spa.
DAYS 9-11
Return to Ushuaia
Say goodbye to the Antarctic Peninsula as we set off for Ushuaia. Take the opportunity to share photographs with fellow travellers, scout for wildlife once again from on deck and enjoy final lectures from WWF-Australia's onboard team.
WWF-Australia's Giants of Antarctica Expedition was created to support scientific researchers, providing them with safe passage to Antarctica and a base from which to conduct their research on the Ocean Endeavour. The data obtained from these expeditions will directly contribute to our understanding of Antarctica’s whale populations and to developing a conservation strategy.
This is part of Intrepid Travel’s larger commitment to giving back to the planet. In addition to supporting WWF-Australia, we’ve carbon offset every passenger’s journey on the Ocean Endeavour in 2021 and 2022, and we’re investing in sustainable initiatives across the Antarctic region.
Travel with a purpose
With the support of
The Intrepid Foundation
Intrepid Travel and WWF-Australia share a commitment to protecting the planet’s natural environments and the wildlife who live in them. That’s why we’ve joined forces to help facilitate whale research in Antarctica – with our not-for-profit The Intrepid Foundation supporting WWF-Australia’s Protecting Antarctic Giants project over the next two years with AUD $150,000 in funding. The data collected during the project will directly contribute to our understanding of Antarctica’s whale populations and to developing
a conservation strategy.
The itinerary
Giants of Antarctica Expedition
Intrepid Travel and WWF-Australia present
Intrepid Travel is the world’s largest small group adventure tour company.
We believe in travelling in a responsible and sustainable way, while giving back to the destinations we visit by partnering with local communities, employers and staff. In 2018 we became the world’s first travel B Corp, reinforcing our commitment to using travel as a force for good.
Giants of Antarctica Expedition
Intrepid Travel is the world’s largest small group adventure tour company.
We believe in travelling in a responsible and sustainable way, while giving back to the destinations we visit by partnering with local communities, employers and staff. In 2018 we became the world’s first travel B Corp, reinforcing our commitment to using travel as a force for good.
