Here are some frequently asked questions from travelers about Antarctica. From accommodations to tipping Guides, you can find the answers here!
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Accommodations
What are accommodations like during my trip?
What are accommodations like during my trip?
On Day 1 of your trip, you will be staying at a hotel in Ushuaia, Argentina. On Day 2, you will board the ship and will sleep in ship cabins until departure day (Day 12).
What amenities are aboard the Ocean Endeavour?
What amenities are aboard the Ocean Endeavour?
During your voyage, you will have plenty of time to enjoy the ship. In addition to your daily lectures, excursions, and evening entertainment, the ship also has a boutique to shop in, observation decks, snacks and cocktail hour, a spa, saunas, a gym and pool, and yoga and meditation classes.
Is there a medical facility onboard?
Is there a medical facility onboard?
There is an infirmary on board and an English speaking, emergency trained Expedition Doctor to provide routine and emergency health care.
Activities
What should I pack?
What should I pack?
Packing the right clothing and gear is an important part of preparing for a trip to Antarctica. Please follow the packing list here to make sure you have everything you need to be prepared and have an enjoyable trip.
What gear is provided to me during my trip?
What gear is provided to me during my trip?
The following 3 items will be provided to you by your local Trip Operator, Intrepid Polar:
Expedition Parka (provided on loan during your trip)
Muck Boots (provided on loan during your trip)
Insulated Inner Jacket (yours to keep!)
Will I experience seasickness?
Will I experience seasickness?
Antarctic waters can be rough, especially during the voyage through Drake Passage. If you are particularly susceptible to seasickness, it is recommended to talk to your doctor before departing and bring any necessary medications, such as motion sickness tablets or patches. Motion sickness medication is preventative,
not curative, and so we recommend that you start to take it as soon as we sail out of port, before the ship heads into open sea. It is also recommended to avoid eating greasy food or consuming alcohol. There is also a doctor on the boat to respond to any emergencies.
What can I expect aboard the ship?
What can I expect aboard the ship?
Lectures and workshops presented by your Expedition Team are conducted
during the voyage, and you can spend time on deck looking for seabirds and
whales. Once we arrive at the Antarctic Peninsula, get ready for multiple landings, Zodiac cruises, and activities.
Expect great meals from your onboard Chefs, inspiring lectures, incredible wildlife
viewing, and the forging of new friendships. Your highly trained Expedition Team
ensures things run smoothly.
The daily itinerary is posted on the TVs throughout the ship. Sometimes, new opportunities present themselves, so expect the unexpected, and put your trust in the highly skilled Expedition Team to make your journey memorable.
Currency
Are tips included in the cost of my trip?
Are tips included in the cost of my trip?
Tips for the Crew and the Expedition Team provide supplemental income and, while not mandatory, are greatly appreciated. If they have enhanced your experience, consider rewarding their efforts! Below are suggested tipping guidelines:
For the Crew, it is recommended to tip $10 USD per person/per day
For the Expedition Team, it is recommended to tip $5 USD per person/per day
What is the local currency of Antarctica?
What is the local currency of Antarctica?
There is no currency in Antarctica, however, the maritime currency of the world is USD, and as such, USD (US$ or US dollars) is the currency on board.
How do I pay for things aboard the ship?
How do I pay for things aboard the ship?
For ease, the ship operates with a cashless society. All items purchased from the Polar Boutique, lounge, or bar (including drinks) are charged to your ship onboard account and settled at the end of your expedition. Any laundry, postage, communication charges, spa treatments, and paid adventure options booked onboard (space permitting) are also charged to your ship onboard account. An account for payment will be presented to you on the final day of the voyage. Final payment can be made using cash or card (Visa or MasterCard). Personal checks are not accepted on board. If you are sharing a cabin and would like separate accounts, you must advise the reception on embarkation. Gratuities for the Expedition Team and Crew can also be added to your ship onboard account.
Meals
What meals are included during my trip?
What meals are included during my trip?
Lunch and dinner in Ushuaia is not included. Breakfast at the hotel in Ushuaia is included. All meals are included while on board the ship.
Transfers
What are arrival transfers like on Day 1?
What are arrival transfers like on Day 1?
On Day 1, you will arrive in Ushuaia.
If arriving by air on Day 1:
An arrival transfer is provided on Day 1 if you arrive by air at Ushuaia airport. Upon your flight disembarkation, collect your luggage and enter the arrivals area. Please look out for our Intrepid representative holding an Intrepid/Ocean Endeavour sign, who will direct you to your transfer vehicle outside the arrivals area. Your luggage will be loaded onto the transfer vehicle, and you will be transported to the hotel in Ushuaia.
If arriving by land on Day 1:
If arriving in Ushuaia by other means (by road), please make your way to the hotel in Ushuaia. Please refer to your Antarctic Cruise Ticket, which you will receive at a later date closer to the start of the trip, for this reservation information.
If arriving before Day 1:
If arriving in Ushuaia before Day 1, please make your own way to the hotel in Ushuaia. Please refer to your Antarctic Cruise Ticket, which you will receive at a later date closer to the start of the trip, for this reservation information.
What are departure transfers like on the last day?
What are departure transfers like on the last day?
Specific details about disembarkation will be shared with you in detail by the Expedition Team the night before the ship arrives in port, and Intrepid Polar's onboard team will arrange your chosen transfer. Please ensure your luggage is packed, labelled, and ready for collection before going to the Polaris Restaurant for breakfast.
A disembarkation transfer is included and can be either of the following:
Morning transfer to the Ushuaia Airport (USH): After breakfast, a transfer service will take you directly to the Ushuaia Airport (USH).
Morning transfer to downtown Ushuaia: If you wish to explore downtown Ushuaia until closer to your flight departure, or if you have a hotel booked in Ushuaia this evening, we will provide a transfer to downtown Ushuaia.
If you are traveling to the airport later, we can provide a secure luggage storage service in downtown Ushuaia. Luggage storage is open at scheduled times throughout the day. After exploring Ushuaia, you can collect your luggage and make your way to the airport. Local taxis can take you to the Ushuaia airport at your own expense. Please allow plenty of time to collect your luggage and travel to the airport.
If you are staying in Ushuaia, please use this transfer to town and then make your way to your hotel.
Please note: You are advised not to book a flight out of Ushuaia before midday on disembarkation day in case of any delays.