endeavour boat trip

Climb aboard for a unique trip to remember in Whitby

Open Saturday 13th / Sunday 14th April 10.30am. Sailing every 30mins weather permitting. What do you get on the Bark Endeavour while sailing, 20 minute audio story about captain Cook's life and sailings of discovery on his famous ship. And a few sea shanties for you to sing along or clap your hands and stamp your feet too .Let`s see if you can find the crocodile in the cliff, or the rocks known as the Whitby whale. £5 per sailor for this 20 minutes trip aboard the famous Ship under 2 year old free. Please book your sailing from the car park passed the magpie cafe, opposite the funland amusements. Cash or card payments. Dogs and ferrets sail for free 

No booking required credit card payments taken sailing most days through the year 1st april to 31st october (subject to weather and tide conditions. we may offer river trips if we can't get to sea) , welcome aboard.

Sea Trips Around Whitby Harbour and Along the Coast

School visits, groups & parties welcome, climb on board the bark endeavour whitby for a unique trip to remember ....

Our authentic replica of HMS Endeavour - which was sailed by Captain James Cook during his scientific expedition of 1768 - has been traditionally built by Whitby craftsmen and stands in the water some 40% of the ships original size.

Join us for one of our regular sailings throughout the year and we will take you on a voyage around Whitby Harbour and along the coast to Sandsend, where you will follow in the path of Cook himself and re-live his life at sea.

We guarantee that it will be a trip to remember and we look forward to welcoming you on board quite soon!

A voyage back in time for everyone ...

Your trip on the Bark Endeavour Whitby will be more than a simple pleasure cruise; instead, you will enjoy some fantastic views of North Yorkshire's Jurassic coastline, with its interesting geological features and its wealth of fossils and minerals, including the famous Whitby Jet; You will also see a rich variety of wildlife, including many different types of sea bird, seals and occasionally porpoise, dolphins and whales.

 The Crew are Always Ready to Help ...

Back in 2022 there was an emergency aboard whereby the crew did their best to help - this note of thanks explains all. We were so glad to see those involved again this year - we are really glad we were able to assist.

Featuring in Cutthroat Island Promo ...

A 'scream park' in County Durham has a new attraction for later in 2022 - 'Cuthroat Island'. Their promo video was shot aboard our boat and can be seen here. (May not be suitable for younger audiences or those who are scared of pirates....).

As seen on TV ...

We had the pleasure of welcoming Justin Fletcher and friends aboard to be pirates for the day as part of the Something Special series. You can watch the show on BBC iPlayer here .

Your safety always matters to us ...

Having featured on numerous TV programmes, our sailing vessel has become a popular attraction for holiday makers, coach parties and those on educational visits. Our Captain and crew include ex-fishermen and lifeboat men with an in-depth knowledge of the local coastline.

For group bookings it is also advisable to book beforehand so that we can ensure all members of your party are suitably catered for upon your arrival.

Dogs : Sea dogs are welcome onboard FREE OF CHARGE

We appreciate that everyone has different requirements and it is our aim to ensure that your voyage is a most pleasurable experience.

We recommend you contact us to check when we are sailing before you decide to travel.

Contact us today for more information or to make your booking. tel:, nigel 07452 838355 / john 07305 722908.

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The Endeavour Experience Whitby

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THE ENDEAVOUR EXPERIENCE WHITBY: All You Need to Know BEFORE You Go (with Photos)

• (0.03 mi) Endeavour View
• (0.03 mi) Harbour View, Whitby
• (0.04 mi) Jutland View - One Bedroom Apartment, Sleeps 2
• (0.09 mi) The Mainstay
• (0.12 mi) Gulls Cry Detached Cottage, Very Close to Harbour, WiFi, Large Court Yard, BBQ
• (0.04 mi) Orlop Restaurant
• (0.04 mi) Domino's Pizza - Whitby
• (0.07 mi) The Singing Kettle
• (0.07 mi) Al Taco
• (0.09 mi) Royal Fisheries

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HMB Endeavour

Please note that the replica of HMB Endeavour is CLOSED  from Monday 8 April  and be away from the museum for essential maintenance.

The Australian-built replica of James Cook's HMB Endeavour is one of the world's most accurate maritime replica vessels.

When you come on board you may wonder whether James Cook and his crew have just stepped ashore somewhere on their voyage. The table is set , clothes are hung and the cat is slumbering.

On board the beautifully crafted ship, you glimpse a sailor's life during one of history's great maritime adventures, Captain Cook's epic 1768-71 world voyage. Look and you'll see almost 30 kilometres of rigging and 750 wooden blocks or pulleys! The masts and spars carry 28 sails that spread approximately 10,000 sq feet (930 m2) of canvas.

In the galley below is the huge stove, called a firehearth - state of the art in 1768. The Great Cabin is where Cook worked and dined, sharing the space with famous botanist Joseph Banks , as you can see when you glance around.

Construction of the Endeavour replica began in 1988 and the ship was launched 5 years later. Since then,  Endeavour has covered many nautical miles on long voyages including circumnavigating Australia three times as well as sailing to Europe, the United States and a number of other overseas ports. Hundreds of thousands of visitors have come on board to see how Cook and his men lived.

Visiting Endeavour

Most days, Endeavour stands majestically at our wharves open for visiting, but does enjoy regular trips along the Australian coast that the public can join, so be sure to check availability .

When it is out at sea, you can track the Endeavour over at  marinetraffic.com  (search for "HMB Endeavour ").

Sail the Endeavour

Endeavour is a fully functioning, sea-going ship and you can sail her as Voyage Crew or as a Supernumerary on 5-day and 10-day voyages at certain dates throughout the year.

Hire the Endeavour

Invite your guests to step on board the meticulous replica of Captain Cook’s famous and historic tall ship of discovery. Moored right beside the museum, HMB Endeavour is an outstanding venue for cocktails on the quarterdeck or an intimate dinner in the Great Cabin.

Search for Endeavour

Learn about the search for the HMB Endeavour -   read the blog from our 2017 Rhode Island fieldwork team.

HIRE THE ENDEAVOUR

Invite your guests to step on board the meticulous replica of Captain Cook’s famous and historic tall ship of discovery. Moored right beside the museum, HMB Endeavour  is an outstanding venue for cocktails on the quarterdeck or an intimate dinner in the Great Cabin.

TAKE A VIRTUAL TOUR

Take a close up virtual tour

Finding Endeavour

Endeavour Cannon on display

Ship specifications

Shop the Endeavour Store

Love Endeavour ? Explore our range of books and giftware relating to all things naval.

HMB Endeavour Souvenir Guide Booklet

HMB Endeavour Duffle Bag

3D model kit - HMB Endeavour

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Encounters 2020

Tall Ship: James Craig 1874

• Cape York Peninsula
• Hope Vale and Elim Beach
• Lakeland and Laura
• Rainforest Coast
• Getting Here
• Black Mountain Picnic
• Weipa Fishing Classic
• Cooktown Discovery Festival
• Laura Races and Rodeo
• Cook Shire Public Holiday
• Black Mountain Unplugged BMUP
• Cardiac Challenge
• Wallaby Creek Festival
• Conquer the Corrugations
• Bloomfield Cultural Bazaar

Endeavour River

The Endeavour River is wide at the mouth, and progressing north, lined with over 25 species of mangroves. As it branches it changes dramatically to narrow creeks lined with palms and rainforest flora. It is along the Endeavour River that Solander first documented much of Australia's flora.

The Endeavour River offers very good mixed fishing right in the heart of Cooktown on a river steeped in history. This river is a great example of how a tropical estuarine system should be.  Deep holes, submerged timber, sand flats, smaller inlets and tributaries, weed beds and all your mangrove species in one river.  By casting lures to the numerous snags and fallen giants of the rainforest that litter the waterway, you will be bound to catch either the predominant species, barramundi or jacks, fingermark, trevally, barracuda or sharks. Brilliant family fishing can also be had on the local wharf and immediate vicinity using a variety of methods.  Many big barra, Spanish mackerel, queenfish and trevally are landed here throughout the year. 

To really explore the system and appreciate it a boat is necessary.  Bring your own, hire a tinny or take advantage of a local guided charter.  If you enjoy lure/fly casting a vessel equipped with an electric motor will provide you with lots more opportunities and a heap more fun.  Boats can be launched opposite the seaview Motel or at the Marton boat ramp 10 minutes north of town.

The best time for croc-spotting is during the winter months of June-August on a low tide. Saltwater crocodiles are most commonly seen in the North Arm of the River, with many different-sized crocs reluctant to slide back into the cold water.

River cruises are popular for croc spotting and bird watching and the following companies operate tours on the Endeavour River:

• Cooktown Barra Charters
• Cooktown Dinghy Hire  and River Cruises
• Gone Fishing
• Riverbend Tours

Natures Powerhouse

Walker st, cooktown, call us at 07 4069 6004.

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National Geographic Endeavour II Galapagos Cruises

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The 96-passenger National Geographic Endeavour II is one of the best first-class expedition vessels in the Galapagos Islands, providing renowned expedition leaders and naturalist staff from National Geographic. Enjoy snorkeling, hiking, a glass-bottom boat and more on the 8-day cruise portion of this 10-day Galapagos tour package tailored for travelers seeking an active yet highly intellectual experience of the archipelago.

Located 600 miles off the coast of Ecuador, the Galápagos Islands provide a natural habitat for some of the world’s most interesting and unusual animals. Only in Galápagos will you come face to face with wildlife that has never developed a fear of people. 

With an expedition to the Land of Darwin, visit a new island each day, all with the diverse iconic wildlife one thinks about when dreaming of this unique destination. Look forward to opportunities such as observing blue-footed boobies performing a courtship dance, snorkeling with playful sea lions, watching a male frigatebird ballooning his crimson chest pouch to attract a female, kneeling beside marine iguanas and marveling at Galápagos penguins. 

A Galapagos cruise aboard the National Geographic Endeavour II features nimble Zodiacs and kayaks that cruise to the volcanic shores and pristine beaches of Galápagos, and an undersea program utilizes underwater video, glass-bottom boat and hydrophone that bring seldom seen or heard worlds to life. Every expedition in Galápagos is led by a team of five naturalists, including an Underwater Specialist, a videographer and expedition leader, providing a multitude of resources for a rich and unmatched understanding of all that you’ll see. Plus, her unique exploration-based family program, National Geographic Global Explorers, caters to kids and teens, making her an excellent option for Galapagos family cruises . Optional rendezvous scuba diving is available on select departures at added cost. Learn more about Galapagos diving .

Read on for details about this trip, or learn more about AdventureSmith’s Galapagos cruises and Galapagos trips .

Galapagos Aboard National Geographic Endeavour II Itinerary

The 96-passenger National Geographic Endeavour II is one of the best first-class expedition vessels in the Galapagos Islands, providing renowned expedition leaders and naturalist staff from National Geographic. Enjoy snorkeling, hiking, a glass-bottom boat and more while cruising for 8 days among travelers seeking an active yet highly intellectual experience of the archipelago.

Upon arrival in Guayaquil, transfer to the Hotel Oro Verde Guayaquil, a convenient locally-owned hotel, for an overnight stay. Most international flights arrive in the late evening. If you wish, you may instead fly into Quito, Ecuador’s historic capital city in the highlands, and book a pre-cruise tour.

Hotel Oro Verde

This morning fly to the Galapagos Islands. Flying time from Guayaquil is approximately one and a half hours. Upon arrival, transfer immediately to the National Geographic Endeavour II. After settling into your cabin, gather in the ship’s lounge for a refreshing welcome drink and a general orientation. After lunch begin exploration of the islands and the remarkable wildlife.

• National Geographic Endeavour II

breakfast, lunch, dinner

Although exact routing depends on the Galapagos National Park, the National Geographic Endeavour II may visit the following islands:

North Seymour Follow coastal trails past playful Galápagos sea lions on this wildlife-rich central island. Continue inland through a silvery forest of endemic palo santo trees, where frigatebirds nest, blue-footed boobies dance and where we may also encounter prehistoric-looking land iguanas feeding on cactus.

Bartolome Climb the steps to the summit of this 300-foot volcanic wonderland for stunning views. Explore, swim and snorkel from the beach. You might even see Galápagos penguins, one of world’s rarest.

Santiago Explore tide pools and look for fur seals sheltered in quiet grottos of black basalt. Swim, snorkel, kayak and paddleboard along Santiago’s spectacular coast, and explore an enchanting coastal forest where Charles Darwin once walked.

Santa Cruz Visit Puerto Ayora, the largest town and headquarters of both the Galápagos National Park and Charles Darwin Research Station. See the monument to Lonesome George, and tour the giant tortoise breeding corrals. See the giant tortoises roaming in the wild in the lush, green highlands.

Isabela Cross the Equator at Volcán Ecuador, northernmost of Isabela’s six great shield volcanoes. Keep an eye open for whales and dolphins, sea turtles and the elusive ocean sunfish. Over two days, land in the footsteps of Darwin and Melville, and look for wildlife along the wildly eroded volcanic shore.

Fernandina One of the most active oceanic volcanoes in the world, Fernandina is the youngest and most pristine island in Galápagos—and home to the strange flightless cormorant, Galápagos penguins and the largest marine iguanas. Hikes ashore lead across impressive recent lava flows.

Floreana Follow a trail past a rose pink-tinted lagoon frequented by flamingos. Snorkel among sea lions and abundant fish, or cruise along Champion Islet by Zodiac. Visit the famous barrel at Post Office Bay.

Española See swallow-tailed gulls, Española mockingbirds, Nazca boobies and, seasonally, the world’s only population of waved albatross at this birder paradise, also home to vividly colored marine iguanas. Watch sea lions on the wide sand beach and snorkel offshore at Gardner Bay.

Genovesa Sail across the Equator to the remote northern realm of the Galápagos, surrounded by warmer tropical waters.

San Cristobal Search for red-footed boobies and the endemic mockingbird and lava lizard—found only on this easternmost island, and dig your toes into the powdery white sand at a gorgeous beach fronted by iconic Kicker Rock. Explore Baquerizo Moreno, where sea lions thrive in the middle of town.

Disembark and transfer to the airport and fly to Guayaquil. The late afternoon and evening is free to explore the city. Overnight in Guayaquil.

This morning fly home — or consider a trip extension with AdventureSmith Explorations to the Amazon or Machu Picchu, Peru.

Accommodations; meals as indicated; beer, wine & full bar; non-alcoholic beverages aboard ship; basic WiFi (enhanced and premium packages available for purchase); transfers to and from group flights; excursions; services of expedition leader, naturalist staff, expert guides, and a ship’s doctor; use of kayaks, snorkeling gear, wetsuits and stand-up paddleboards; special access fees; port charges; service taxes; Galapagos National Park entrance fee (US $100 per adult and $50 for children under 12 years old for entries prior to August 1, 2024; US $200 per adult and $100 for children under 12 years old for entries beginning August 1, 2024) and Galapagos transit card ($20).

Air transportation; extensions; optional Scuba excursions (inquire for details); meals not indicated; reserve wines & premium spirits; gratuities; optional Scuba excursions; passport, visa and immigration fees; personal items such as emails, laundry, voyage DVD, etc.; insurance of any kind; round-trip economy flights between Guayaquil and the Galapagos (2024 sample airfares: $520 per person or $350 per child, subject to change); optional international group flights (2024 sample airfares: $525 economy or $1,450 business, subject to change).

Payment & Cancellation

In order to confirm this trip, a deposit of 15% of the total trip cost is required per person at time of booking. The balance of the trip price is due 120 days before the departure date. Special payment terms apply for groups of 8 or more; inquire for details. Guests who must cancel their trip for any reason must do so in writing. Standard cancellations are subject to the following per-person fees, based on number of days prior to departure: 120 or more days – 100% of deposit** 119 to 90 days – 50% of total trip cost 89 to 0 days – 100% of total trip cost **Advance payments will be credited in the form of a Lindblad Expeditions Travel Certificate, valid for 12 months from the date of cancellation, and which may only be applied towards final payment on any future booking.  

( For expeditions booked prior to May 1, 2023 : Please refer to your invoice for your payment and cancellation terms.)

Terms & Conditions

This trip is subject to AdventureSmith Explorations’  Terms and Conditions . Please read this information carefully and call us if you have any questions. A Traveler Information Form, which includes a release of liability, must be completed and signed by all travelers. Your Adventure Specialist will send you a unique link to complete this form along with a packing list and extensive pre-departure and travel insurance information upon booking confirmation.

Arrival & Departure

This trip begins and ends in Guayaquil, Ecuador (GYE). Plan flights to arrive at any time on Day 1 and depart anytime on Day 10. Optional group flights depart Miami around 4:00pm on Day 1 and depart Guayaquil around 6:30am on Day 10. If you would like assistance with international flights, please visit our  Booking Flights  resource page. Note: Your passport must be valid 6 months after your Ecuador trip.

Internal Flights

Flights from mainland Ecuador (Guayaquil) to the Galapagos are not included in the cruise price, but are arranged for you by AdventureSmith Explorations through your ship. Your Adventure Specialist will book these flights for you on the scheduled Galapagos flight for your particular departure. Airfares vary by departure; your Adventure Specialist will detail these for you in their proposal and on your invoice. See Exclusions for sample airfare rates. On flights from mainland Ecuador to the Galapagos Islands, baggage weight limits are currently 50 pounds for checked items, and 17 pounds for carry-on plus a small personal item. Subject to change.

Whether you are looking for light activity options or more challenging outdoor pursuits, the ship’s crew can tailor most excursions to suit your skill level. Adventure activities may include opportunities to swim, snorkel, kayak, Zodiac cruise and stand-up paddleboard. Wetsuits are available, either free of charge or to rent for a fee (see Inclusions and Exclusions), and are recommended from June to December. There is also a glass-bottom Zodiac for exploring the undersea while staying dry. Scuba diving for advanced divers may be available on select voyages at an additional cost, with a local dive outfitter that will supply both gear and dive guides. Contact AdventureSmith to check availability on scuba diving options.

Daily excursions from the boat to the islands will be made in pangas (dinghies). Trip members will hike from the landing point to specific areas for wildlife observation. Hiking time for most landings will be a couple of hours round-trip with lots of time to stop to study, photograph and enjoy the flora and fauna. Some landings are dry but many are “wet,” requiring cautious footing on slippery rocks. The boat staff will be on hand to assist.

Optional rendezvous scuba diving, where a dive operator meets the cruise to take a group out for the day, can be arranged for an additional cost. Diving must be arranged in advance and may be subject to a minimum number of guests. All diving equipment is provided. Dive experience and certification is required. Participating in diving means guests miss the regularly scheduled activities for that day. Contact AdventureSmith for details.

Room Configuration

In addition to listed Solo cabin rates, select double-occupancy cabins may be available for single occupancy with a single supplement fee. If you would like to share accommodations with another guest of the same gender, we will be happy to try to accommodate you in select cabin categories. This program allows you to pay the per person double-occupancy rate whether or not a roommate is found. Contact AdventureSmith for further details and availability.

Families & Children

Children under the age of 18 are eligible for $500 off the double occupancy rate. Skilled staff members trained with National Geographic Education organize activities that inspire curiosity in young people of all ages. Programming for kids may include activities like photo workshops, journaling, scavenger hunts, Zodiac-driving lessons, hands-on nature and science programming and kid-friendly menu options.

Travel Insurance

Protect your travel investment with insurance. Our partners at Travelex Insurance offer a variety of plans and policies to fit every trip and budget. Coverage for a pre-existing medical condition is also available if you purchase the Travel Select plan within 15 days of the initial trip payment; refer to plan details.  Learn more about travel insurance  or  get a free quote .

We strongly recommend that you travel to Galapagos Province with travel insurance that contains medical coverage. Be certain to bring your insurance plan ID documents with you when you travel.

Itinerary Notes

Use the itinerary as a guide only. Itineraries may be altered due to weather, wildlife, National Park regulation or at the captain’s discretion. Due to the active nature of volcanoes in the Western Galapagos, alternate excursions may be offered. The ability to be flexible makes this type of small ship cruising unique.

Galapagos Cruise Rates & Dates

Rates are variable per remaining availability and are subject to change.

Learn About the Galapagos Ship & Mainland Hotel on Your Itinerary

Hotel Oro Verde, located in downtown Guayaquil, Ecuador, offers guests a luxurious experience with a wide array of amenities and a superb location, just walking distance to many city attractions and a quick 8-minute drive to the airport.

The 96-guest National Geographic Endeavour II is superbly designed for expedition cruising in the Galapagos Islands. National Geographic experts, kayaks, paddleboards, glass-bottom zodiacs, modern cabins, first-rate dining and underwater cameras make for the ultimate Galapagos experience.

Current Deals on This Trip

Save $500 per kid under 18 when you book your 2024 or 2025 departure from a variety of National Geographic expeditions worldwide.

Save 5% when traveling as a group of 8 or more on a variety of 2024 or 2025 National Geographic expeditions worldwide.

Hear It from Travelers Who Have Explored with Us

What an amazing trip! Every aspect of the trip was wonderful. All the flights worked out, the staff was excellent, the guides excellent, and our fellow travelers wonderful.

Our trip to the Galapagos far exceeded our expectations. In every moment I felt safe, cared for, and that anything I could need was not only met but anticipated in advance.

National Geographic is the gold standard for expedition travel. The Galápagos Islands are a destination of a lifetime! Do not skip any excursions! Soak up every moment.

What an amazing trip!  Friends of ours went on the same trip last year and they said they loved it.  They complain about almost everything so we thought if they liked it, we would.  And we did!  Every aspect of the trip was wonderful.  All the flights worked out, the staff was excellent, the guides excellent, and our fellow travelers wonderful. 

Snorkeling was wonderful.  Saw ten white tipped sharks in a school, ten hammerhead sharks in a school, and 30 eagle rays in formation.  Penguins, sea lions, and lots of schools of fish.  Wonderful! It was all wonderful.  Perhaps we had to get to the airport earlier than needed but otherwise everything was perfect.  

Accommodations Review

The room was great, except the window did not open so we couldn't get fresh air.  The ship temperature was too cold.  But the shower was great, the bed was nice and comfortable, the pillows great, just wonderful.  

Meals Review

Loved all the fruit and salads.  The meat was overcooked.  Maybe some less sweet desserts.  But really, the food was terrific.  

Crew & Guides Review

If anything, Juan C. was too cheerful.  Great guy, great attitude.  Most of the guides were good.  They are not world class, but then they have to be local guides under the law, which limits who can be a guide.  Luckily, Michael Jackson, the world expert on the Galapagos, was on our trip so he was great to talk to.  Walter, Benjamin,  Gilda, and Enrique were great.   

AdventureSmith Explorations Review

Andrew provided us lots of information,  kept us apprised of what we needed to know, and helped us with all aspects of the trip.  We made our own flight arrangements.

Traveler Advice

Do it!  Be prepared to walk over rocks and wet areas.  Do not miss any of the activities.  They are all wonderful.  We thought the trip was expensive, and we had never taken a tour before.  The trip more than exceeded our expectations.  It was fantastic.  But expensive.  

Featured in this Traveler Review

Our trip to the Galapagos far exceeded our expectations. We knew we would see endemic species that live only in the Galapagos and also a variety of volcanic landscapes ranges from hundreds of thousands of years old to millions of years old. We didn't know we would see numerous species performing their mating rituals a few feet away from us on our walking trail. Or that the crew would treat us like family, creating an environment of care and hospitality like none we've ever experienced before.

Cabin was very comfortable, ship had everything we needed.

The food was incredible. Some of the best soups I've had in my life. The change I'd recommend is instead of having dessert directly after lunch, to serve it at 3pm as a mid afternoon snack. The dessert was too enticing to pass up and having it after delicious food made for a very full belly.

Aaron was very helpful, providing not only specific and high level information but also addressed all my questions and put me at ease (which he can tell you is not an easy job, as I am a worrier). He helped me understand logistics and pros/cons of various situations.

Carlos, the expedition leader, was organized and helpful in making decisions about which excursions to take. He helped make things funny and memorable where possible. The suggestion I have for him would be that he can be a bit long winded. I process better with brief oral instructions and information followed-up in writing. There was always written information but I'd prefer a shorter speech, or not to tie critical information in with non-critical so I could leave early if I needed to go rest. Sebastian was phenomenal. I couldn't imagine better care or being treated more like family. Throughout the trip, I felt like Sebastian was taking care of just my family. It wasn't until the last day that I realized many families felt that way. Sebastian changed the feel of the trip from a vacation with strangers to vacationing with extended family, all of whom cared for us and our well being. In every moment I felt safe, cared for, and that anything I could need was not only met but anticipated in advance. The Zodiac crew - drivers and boat loaders - were extremely helpful. Passengers had varying physical abilities and they made everyone feel cared for and that it was a pleasure to help them enjoy themselves rather than a burden to adjust and accommodate. The wait staff was warm, friendly, knew us by name.

Wow! National Geographic/Lindblad Expeditions is the gold standard for expedition travel. I was impressed with every single aspect of my experience. I travel a lot! I have always found that people who travel similarly are personable and like-minded. My fellow travelers on this trip were no exception. I strongly believe that I have forged lifelong friendships from many of the travelers with whom I shared this amazing travel experience.

The National Geographic Endeavor II had wonderful accommodations! My cabin was roomy, comfortable, and the wonderful crew member, Olga, who took care of the cabin always did an amazing job.

The food was incredible! It was like visiting a 5-star quality restaurant at every meal! The food was not only delicious, but the presentation and plating were creative and beautiful. The wait staff was also top notch! They took the time to get to know us and even anticipated our "usual" needs.

The naturalist guides were fun, informative, knowledgeable, and they really took the time to get to know us, the travelers. The certified photo instructor was fun, informative, knowledgeable, and he really took the time to get to know us, the travelers. All of the naturalist guides were consummate professionals! And our expedition leader, Paula, was equally amazing. She was fun, informative, knowledgeable, and her daily presentations provided the perfect balance of important information, brevity and humor.

Transportation Review

I had already arranged my own flights to get to and from the destination. National Geographic/Lindblad Expeditions arranged the in-country flights. Leslie made sure I was aware of all of the transportation arrangements, putting my mind at ease.

Leslie C. was great! She provided me with all of the important information I needed. She was also very timely in getting back to me with my myriad of questions. It was great to have a dedicated Adventure Specialist, Leslie, to whom I could turn with questions.

I had another trip planned for the summer of 2021, but it was canceled/postponed due to COVID-19. In the "travel bucket list" in my mind, the Galápagos Islands were my next destination, and they were open for travel this summer. I did a little quick research, and decided that I wanted to travel with National Geographic/Lindblad Expeditions, and I found that AdventureSmith Explorations could book the trip for me.

The Galápagos Islands are a destination of a lifetime! Do not skip any excursions! Soak up every moment. You can rest when you get home, but you will probably regret missing any opportunity to explore the islands.

100+ combined years of experience, 7 continents explored, decades of expedition cruising around the world & here to help you find & book your dream trip.

Additional Travel Options Before or After Your Galapagos Cruise

Most Galapagos cruises require travelers to find pre- and post-cruise Guayaquil or Quito hotels. This travel package offers an easy, cost-effective way to get to the Galapagos with a comprehensive land package.

Travel to Peru's most spectacular archaeological monument in South America: the ancient Inca site of Machu Picchu. This 5- or 6-day Machu Picchu Explorer adventure includes Cusco, the Urubamba Valley and upscale accommodations.

Mashpi Biodiversity Reserve is located in one of the most important global “hot spots” of biodiversity: the Tumbez-Chocó-Darién. This rainforest reserve features an exceptionally high level of endemism, with year-round access via the Mashpi Lodge.

Planning Your Cruise to the Galapagos Islands

Book your Galapagos small ship cruise with AdventureSmith Explorations for our broad knowledge of this famed archipelago. Our Adventure Specialists are Galapagos travel experts, savvy on Galapagos travel news and planning tips, and our travelers are extensions of this team, providing further insight to enhance our guests’ experience.   

This series of travel guides and journals will help you learn more about the Galapagos Islands and get inspired. We travel to the Galapagos several times each year and update our guides frequently, so consult these posts regularly for the most up-to-date information.

Many Galapagos animals can’t be seen anywhere else on earth but not every animal can be seen on every island. Learn more about where, when and how you can find the top Galapagos Islands animals plus other fun facts and videos.

When is the best time to visit Galapagos? Consult this month by month guide for help planning your Galapagos travel with tips on everything from weather, wildlife, water temperature and the benefits of each month.

Collectively, our crew of experts has been to the Galapagos more than 20 times to travel with our partner small ships and island lodges. Take our insider advice to make the most of your journey.

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The perfect blend of activity and education the 48-guest National Geographic Islander II offers snorkeling, hiking and expert guides and naturalists on this 7- to 12-day Wild Galapagos Escape Cruise.

A life-enriching adventure that redefines luxury expedition cruising. Part of the esteemed Relais & Chateaux collection, the prestigious 20-passenger sister ships Origin, Theory & Evolve provide an intimate voyage with exceptional itineraries and refined gastronomy in the Galapagos Islands.

The 90-guest Santa Cruz II is an expedition vessel in the Galapagos Islands with itineraries designed to capitalize on wildlife viewing. Enjoy hikes, snorkeling and a glass-bottom boat, alongside talented naturalist guides and a stellar crew, all of which set this trip apart.

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Safari Endeavour, Alaska

• 9.3 Superb 12 Verified Reviews
• from ₽ 39,287 / day

Excellent diving and guidance “Great crew, many choices for activities and meeting new people. ” Ellen D, United States

• Opportunities for kayaking, snorkeling, hiking, and more
• Bow-mounted underwater camera for capturing action
• Delicious, freshly prepared meals by executive chefs

The Safari Endeavour offers guests amazing small ship cruises to Alaska from April to September, offering exciting 7- and 12-night hands-on adventures on itineraries such as Inside Passage & Glacier Bay Wilderness, Northern Passages, and Glacier Bay. Guests will have the chance to see stunning fjords, winding passages, amazing wildlife, and beautiful rainforests. Activities include kayaking, snorkeling, hiking, bushwhacking, skiff explorations, yoga, and stand-up paddleboarding. There is also a hydrophone on board for listening to sounds below the surface and a bow-mounted underwater camera, so you don’t miss out on the action.

Topside, the Safari Endeavour offers ample space and 4 decks. There are 42 cabins on board to cater to 84 guests. Each cabin has a flat-screen TV with an entertainment station, desk, chair, AC, ample storage space, and en-suite bathroom with shower. Common areas include the comfortable lounge, cask wine bar, and library, offering a great place to relax at the end of the day with a glass of wine and share stories. For further relaxation, there are two hot tubs on board. Meals are served in the dining area and are casual with open seating. The food is freshly prepared by executive chefs, with a choice of entrees available, and often includes delicious homemade desserts such as lavender panna cotta or tiramisu.

A small ship cruise to Alaska aboard the Safari Endeavour is a fantastic adventure. Book your trip today.

Choose your departure date adventure cruise | no scuba diving

Included: VAT, Fuel Surcharge, National Park Fees, Visas and Fees, Alcoholic Beverages, Drinking Water, Soft drinks, Tea & Coffee, Welcome Cocktails, Wine with Dinner, Full-Board Meal Plan (All meals), Snacks, Special Dinner, Kayaks, Land Excursions, Naturalist Guide, Stand Up Paddleboard, Beach Towels, Cabin Towels, Complimentary Toiletries, Deck Towels, Yoga.

Required Extras: Port Fees (375-675 USD per trip).

Optional Extras: Travel Insurance, Gratuities, Airport Transfer, Hotel Transfer.

Book now, pay later: You can easily place your booking online. We will then hold the spaces for you and you can confirm with a payment later.

* Extra fees are shown per person.

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Boat features

• Daily housekeeping
• Audio & video entertainment
• TV in cabins
• Air Conditioned saloon
• Aircon Cabins
• Indoor Saloon
• Warm Water Showers
• En-Suite bathrooms
• Non-Smoking Rooms
• Family Cabins
• Seaview Cabins
• Rooms with Balcony
• Kayaks On-Board
• Naturalist Itineraries
• Naturalist Guide
• Leisure Deck
• Observation Deck
• Family Friendly Cruise
• Jacuzzi / Hot Tub
• Stand Up Paddleboard

Food & Drinks

• Western Food
• Vegetarian Options
• Beer available
• Snacks All Day
• Free Wine w/Dinner
• Vegan Options
• Fine Wines Selection
• Free Soft Drinks
• Wine Available
• Set Menu Dinner
• Fine Cuisine
• Welcome Cocktails
• Full-board Option

If you have any specific dietary requirements whilst on-board your cruise, you can add this to your special requests on step 2 of the booking form. We advise limiting these requests to religious beliefs or food allergies.

Languages Spoken

The crew speaks English.

Drawings & Vessel Layouts

Accommodation.

Navigator Cabin (103-104 & 212-302)

Pathfinder Cabin (105-112; 203-204; 209-210)

Admiral Cabin (201, 202, 309)

Commodore Suite (205 - 208)

Trailblazer Cabins (303-308 & 311-322)

Boat specifications.

• Year built 2012
• Length 232ft
• Cruising speed 10 knots
• Max guests 84
• Number of cabins 42
• Number of bathrooms 42

Boat Navigation and Safety

Safari endeavour reviews.

• 12 Verified Reviews
• Activities 9.5

Amazing trip

Great crew, many choices for activities and meeting new people.

Wonderful crew, guides, adventures and food!

Being able to see all the bears and glaciers up close was amazing! Kayaking, bushwhacking and guides were great. The crew on the boat were delightful...especially Paige! We appreciated that there was no problem modifying meals and the chef/kitchen prepared delicious meals. Seafood was all cooked perfectly.

• 10 Exceptional

outstanding!

Kayaking on a serene bay on a sunny day and seeing all of the animals

Phenomenal, exhilarating, expertly executed voyage adventure with knowledgeable lively guides and varied activities.

Kayaking with a raft of playful sea lions. Learning about whales, bears and botany of the rain forest. Lively guides and fellow passengers.

Uncruise crew make this a fun, safe and exciting experience.

The crew made the nature off-ship activities accessible for all, young and old. No other cruise line has skiffs which are safer and easier for older passengers to ride in. Please keep the skiffs! It was the main reason I signed up with this cruise line. The food and bar service was great, especially the pastry chef. We saw many whales, the northern lights, bears and so many beautiful Alaskan creatures. And the Alaskan landscape is beautiful. The crew made all the sightings possible with their watchful eyes. We have been on several cruises over the years and we feel we had the best experience with Uncruise. Thank you for a great time.

The whole experience was amazing.The places we visited and the crew who made it so wonderful. Their knowledge was immense. The food was unbelievable and NOTHING was too much trouble. Everything was thought of. The luggage was transported to the airport in a seamless fashion, as were the guests. Just great from beginning to end

• 8.0 Very good

It was GREAT

BUSH WACKING

• 8.4 Very good

engaging, comfortable, worth it !

sea otters, sea lions, salmon jumping, whales breaching

The cruise exceeded expectations

The calving glaciers were incredible. You don’t realize the size until you compare it with the seals on the ice flows. The kayaking amidst the impressive lay pristine beauty was breathtaking. And one could not leave out the whales!

• 8.8 Fabulous

A great active adventure

Kayaking. Whales. Scenery. No other ships or boats anywhere! Crew was great.

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• 1 double or 2 single beds (amenable twin)
• Aircon with control
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• Max 2 guests

Fixed queen, or fixed twin beds; desk and chair; view window or portholes; private bath and shower. Cabin Features: TV/DVD player; hairdryer, bathrobes, conditioning shampoo, body wash; binoculars; reusable water bottles. Please specify the preferred bedding configuration when booking. Bed choices are subject to availability.

King or twin beds; view window; Flat-screen TV/DVD; iPod docking station; air conditioning; desk and chair; private bath with shower; generous storage and closet space. Please specify the preferred bedding configuration when booking. Bed choices are subject to availability.

King or twin beds; refrigerator; view window; Flat-screen TV/DVD; iPod docking station; air conditioning; desk and chair; private bath with shower; generous storage and closet space. Please specify the preferred bedding configuration when booking. Bed choices are subject to availability.

Sitting area; king or twin beds; Tempur-pedic® products; refrigerator; view windows; French doors and step out balcony; private bath with Jacuzzi tub and shower, Flat-screen TV/DVD; iPod docking station; air conditioning

• 2 single beds (twin)

Fixed twin beds; desk and chair; view windows; Flat-screen TV/DVD; iPod docking station; air conditioning; desk and chair; private bath with shower; generous storage and closet space. Please specify the preferred bedding configuration when booking. Bed choices are subject to availability.

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Everything you need to know about the Ocean Endeavour

From how many Zodiacs we’ve got to whether or not there’s a bar, it’s time to answer your questions about the Ocean Endeavour.

So, you’ve picked the destination ( Antarctica ). Now you need to decide which expedition ship operator to go with – easier said than done, I know. There are plenty of companies out there promising you the trip of a lifetime, but with my full bias on display, there’s none quite like Intrepid. Or should I say, there’s no ship quite like the Ocean Endeavour .

Allowing you to explore the remote coastline of the world’s 7th continent while still enjoying the class and comfort of a four-star hotel, the Ocean Endeavour is the perfect home base for your Antarctic adventure. And to prove it, I’ll fill you in on life onboard the Ocean Endeavour and exactly what you can expect on your journey to the icy edge of the world.

Don't wait until you've finished reading, book now

But first of all, what is expedition cruising?

Forget traditional cruise liners. The only way to cruise Antarctica’s waters is on a smaller expedition ship; one where the max passenger count is 200 and there’s a real emphasis on the ‘expedition’ part. Not only because it offers a more personalized and comfortable experience for those onboard, but also because it gives you plenty of opportunities for excursions to the Antarctic Peninsula.

Meaning you shouldn’t think of your trip to Antarctica as a holiday. Instead, it’ll be an action-packed, thrill-inducing, adrenaline-pumping adventure full of photography workshops, penguin-spotting, snow-camping and afternoons spent sea-kayaking. And that’s just the tip of the iceberg.

Related: The 10 Antarctica questions you want answered

So, why choose the Ocean Endeavour?

The Ocean Endeavour has 20 Zodiacs (smaller inflatable boats) to take you off the ship and onto land so there’s no taking turns with the other passengers onboard when it comes to sea excursions and shore landings.

The ship also has one expedition crew member for every eight travellers. Yep, you read that right. Boasting one of the best staff-to-passenger ratios in Antarctica (1:8), Intrepid expeditions let you take full advantage of the expert team around you, whether that’s asking questions about your surroundings or getting a little extra assistance to get on and off the Zodiacs.

As if that wasn’t good enough, the Ocean Endeavour exudes comfort with contemporary interiors, a relaxing spa, lounges for learning, reflection and scrolling through the millions of photos you’ve taken during the day, breathtaking 360-degree-views from the deck and an emphasis on sustainability through the ship’s citizen science program*. Did I forget to mention the professionally staffed bar, his and hers saunas and the polar library?

*more on this later.

How will I know if the Ocean Endeavour is the right ship for me?

To be blunt, the Ocean Endeavour is the right ship for everyone. It’s perfect for people who want a more active experience but also for those who crave a little comfort and flexibility; you don’t have to participate in sea excursions or shore landings if you don’t want to.

There’s also plenty of rooming options and arrangements for those travelling as a couple, with a group of friends or as a solo traveller. Every cabin has a private bathroom equipped with a shower, toilet, washbasin and eco-friendly body wash and hair care products, a flatscreen TV, a telephone and a safe for your valuable possessions.

A daily housekeeping service and laundry facilities onboard make the Ocean Endeavour just as good as any hotel, except better. You can watch the Antarctic landscape go by through your window (if your cabin has one).

What are the expedition guides onboard like?

Our expert guides are some of the best in the biz and are always on hand to share their knowledge through presentations, lectures and seminars onboard the Ocean Endeavour. There’s nothing you can’t ask that our marine biologist, geologist, glaciologist, ornithologist, penguin-ologist (there’s a lot of ‘ologists’) or naturalist can’t answer.

But they’re not just there to teach you stuff (even if that stuff is super interesting). They also play an important part in delivering your dream Antarctica experience from swapping stories over dinner and getting to know each and every one of you to pointing out wildlife when they see it. Their passion and enthusiasm are some of the many reasons why our trips stand out from the rest. They’re also super friendly and approachable so you know, that helps.

Related: Meet Martin Cohen, Antarctica expedition guide and polar penguinologist

What’s the citizen science program?

Sending long-term academic teams to Antarctica to conduct scientific research is costly, time-consuming and all ‘round challenging at the best of times. But there’s important work that needs to be done in order to help us better understand Antarctica and the issues it faces. Introducing the citizen science program onboard the Ocean Endeavour.

With the want to harness the power of the travellers that set sail for Antarctica each year, the citizen science program encourages passengers to observe, record and report on natural phenomena as part of a collaboration project with actual Antarctic scientists.

Work with the likes of NASA’s Globe Observer, Happy Whale, Seabird Survey and phytoplankton organisations and contribute to the future health of the continent you’ve fallen in love with. From recording cloud cover, photographing whales’ flukes, conducting bird surveys and collecting phytoplankton samples, becoming a scientist for a day has never felt so good.

Related: Meet Eva, the polar scientist heading to Antarctica with Intrepid

What is a typical day onboard the Ocean Endeavour look like?

Days will look different depending on what route your trip follows but there’s one thing that’ll remain the same whether you’re on an 11-day trip or a 23-day trip: the vast and beautiful icy landscape right outside the window. So, first things first, wake up, get dressed and head to the deck for a look at your breathtaking surroundings.

Once you’ve got the lay of the land (or sea), the dining room awaits with a full breakfast buffet stocked with the foods you need for a busy day ahead. At around 8:30am, an announcement of the morning’s activities will come through the intercom system so make your way to the mudroom to get suited up for your sea or land-based adventures.

You’ll get back to the ship a little before lunchtime and, once you’ve warmed up with a hot cup of soup, you’ll have time to roam the Ocean Endeavour as you please. Perhaps go for a sweat sesh in the gym or a dip in the heated swimming pool before making your way back to the dining room for some more sustenance in preparation for your afternoon outing.

Your afternoon excursion will follow the same routine as the morning’s and when you’re back from penguin-spotting/whale-admiring/seal colony-exploring, you’ll be invited to the bar for a recap where our expedition team will let you in on some of the day’s cool learnings.

A delicious three-course dinner in the dining room rounds out the day. Sit back and relax while soft music plays in the lounge, chat to your fellow travellers over drinks at the bar or ask the expedition team any questions you might have from the day’s activities. There might even be some trivia or board games to keep you entertained throughout the evening.

After a night of fun, retire to your cabin and get ready to do it all again tomorrow.

Kate Gazzard

When I was 11, my parents asked me whether I wanted a pool for the house or a trip to Fiji. I chose Fiji, and I've made travelling as much as I can a priority ever since.

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Cruising Antarctica on Ocean Endeavour With Intrepid [In-depth Review]

Carissa Rawson

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Why Book a Cruise?

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Exploring the seventh continent is on everyone’s bucket list, right? That’s what I told myself as I perused Antarctic cruises for the hundredth time in February 2022, anxiously refreshing to try and find an option that was reasonably priced. Fortunately for me — and now for all of you — I managed to snag a booking while it was on sale.

In December 2022 I boarded a 10-night cruise headed down to the frigid Antarctic peninsula. Let’s talk about how it went.

I’ve been on a handful of cruises in my life, but I knew from the outset that heading down to Antarctica was going to be unlike anything I’d ever experienced. And although I’m more than comfortable traveling on my own as I do a majority of the time, tackling an adventure as extreme as Antarctica wasn’t something I wanted to do solo.

I’d spent a few years eyeing various travel offerings from a group dedicated to solo female travelers, cunningly named The Solo Female Traveler Network (SoFe). The network promises to group like-minded women together on adventures. So when I saw that the program was offering 25% discounts on bookings to Antarctica , I jumped on it.

It turns out that wasn’t actually necessary. Although I originally booked with SoFe, they ended up booking our actual cruises with Intrepid Travel , a much larger tour company with offerings around the globe.

One of the best benefits of booking with SoFe (and also Intrepid) is that there is no single traveler supplement fee. Rather than having a room to yourself, you end up with a roommate who has also booked alone.

Since I was scoring that 25% discount and owed no single traveler supplement fee , I went big when it came to booking my room, opting for a deluxe oceanview twin room. With the discount, my total booking came out to $9,593 . Would this have been the same had I booked directly with Intrepid? I’m not sure, but it’s likely.

I know, that’s an exorbitant cost for someone to pay, especially when they’re used to traveling with points and miles. But short of booking a Lindblad Expedition , there was pretty much no other way for me to get down to the White Continent. So I sucked it up and paid using my Chase Sapphire Reserve ® , which earned me 3x Ultimate Rewards on the entire purchase.

We value Chase points at 2.0 cents each, which means that the 28,779 points I earned came out to a value of ~ $576 . Is that a huge discount versus what I paid? No, but it certainly helps take out the sting.

If I’d wanted to redeem points, I could have instead opted to pay with my Capital One Venture Rewards Credit Card . This would have allowed me to redeem my Capital One miles at a rate of 1 cent per point against travel purchases from the previous 90 days — though this wouldn’t really be the best use of my miles.

Bottom Line: I earned nearly 30,000 Chase Ultimate Rewards points when booking my cruise, which helped me feel better about the $9,500 price tag. 

There are a few different ways to visit Antarctica. Your options are flying down and camping, flying down and cruising, or just cruising from start to finish.

Of these options, cruising the entire length of the journey is generally the cheapest . This is because you’ll spend 2 nights on either side of your trip transiting the Drake Passage. It’s not for the faint of heart due to its massive swells, but it can certainly save you some money on an already expensive trip.

That being said, once you’re actually down in Antarctica, nearly every option for exploring involves cruising. This is due to a variety of reasons, but mostly because responsible tour operators have committed to leaving no trace — and cruising is the easiest way to do so. It’s also much simpler to get around in Antarctica’s mercurial weather if you’ve got a big boat to do it with.

Hot Tip: Looking for ways to book your cruise? Check out our guide to the best websites for booking cheap cruises .

I wish I could say that heading from my home in California down to Ushuaia, Argentina was simple, but it wasn’t. Due to a series of mishaps, I missed my original flight from Los Angeles (LAX) to Santiago (SCL) and onward to Ushuaia (USH).

Instead, I was forced to rebook a last-minute ticket on United from San Diego (SAN) to Houston (IAH) and down to Buenos Aires (EZE). I then spent a night at the Park Hyatt Buenos Aires before heading down to Ushuaia (USH).

It was certainly an adventure, and the only reason I didn’t miss my cruise down to Antarctica was that I’d planned to arrive several days early . I’d recommend the same, especially since flights down to southern South America from the U.S. are generally only once per day.

Note that in order to board my cruise to Antarctica, I had to provide proof of my COVID-19 vaccination status as well as complete an antigen test shortly before departure. Check out Intrepid’s Safe Travels page for current requirements.

Although the cruise was billed as an 11-day adventure, I spent just 9 nights aboard Ocean Endeavour . This is because my first night was spent in a hotel (thanks to all those pre-departure briefings) and on my last day I was off the boat by 9 in the morning.

Here’s how my itinerary shook out:

• Day 1 : Arrive in Ushuaia (spend the night in a hotel)
• Day 2 : Board the ship (at 3 p.m., port departure at 6 p.m.)
• Days 3 and 4 : Cross Drake Passage
• Days 5 through 8 : Explore Antarctica
• Days 9 and 10 : Cross Drake Passage
• Day 11 : Disembark (at 9 a.m.)

I booked with SoFe because I was looking for a group of women to travel with. While that didn’t really happen (since we ended up as a very small group traveling with Intrepid and there were no activities together), I still had a great time aboard the Ocean Endeavour.

Antarctica is a highly-protected continent, and Intrepid is one of the best when it comes to ecologically-responsible tours. As an Australian company, it goes way above and beyond to ensure that all of us tourists don’t leave a lasting impact on the land. Among its many commitments, it only carries up to 199 passengers per trip . This is thanks to the 1959 Antarctic Treaty, which limits the activity allowed in Antarctica. A limited number of passengers per day are allowed to visit a specific site. So while you’ll see big cruise ships heading down to Antarctica, most of them simply sail on by. That, or they’ll hold a lottery to see who’s allowed to depart.

By limiting its passenger count to 199, Intrepid ensured that everyone who paid to cruise down to Antarctica was able to actually set foot on Antarctica .

Although the Ocean Endeavour was originally built to hold upwards of 300 passengers, thanks to the Antarctic Treaty there were less than 200 of us on board (a total of 133 guests). This meant that a number of cabins sailed empty, though I did find myself with a roommate thanks to my booking with SoFe.

There are 9 decks aboard the Ocean Endeavour. Our cabin was on Deck 7 , which was extremely convenient as we were next to the dining room, spa, gym, and main lounge.

The cabin itself was more spacious than I’d hoped for , with 2 twin beds, a closet, several shelves, hooks to hang our gear, and a desk.

We also enjoyed a desk with a few drawers , though we didn’t realize at first that the drawers had latches to keep them shut. We spent a wide-eyed night hearing them slam to and fro with the waves.

I told myself the desk was necessary to sit down and work during my off-time, but we all know that never happened.

Note that while we did use the safe, at one point it errored out and a wallet was stuck inside. Housekeeping was able to unlock it.

All in all, I was pleased with the size of my room and the ability to store all my stuff . There were cheaper options available, including a triple room with 3 twin beds, but I would have felt claustrophobic without a window .

The bathroom was small but no smaller than I’d normally expect when sailing on a cruise ship. It included a sink, toilet, and shower, as well as a hair dryer.

Probably the worst part about this bathroom was attempting to stay upright while sailing the Drake Passage. There are grab bars for a reason — so plan to shower one-handed while rolling around in the waves.

Note that I brought my own toiletries, including shampoo and conditioner. I’m glad I did since the options provided by the cruise ship were absolutely awful. My roommate ended up with staticky hair after just a couple of nights.

Bottom Line: My room was more than big enough for the pair of us, with storage for all our belongings and a great view out of the window. 

Food and Beverage

I don’t consider myself a food snob, but even if I did, I think I still would have stuffed myself on this boat. There’s simply no other way to tell you that the food onboard was delicious .

Depending on the day, we generally had a breakfast buffet, plated lunch, and plated dinner. Everything but alcohol was included and the range of meals was generous.

Each day there was an omelet station , as well as a large selection of fresh bread and other dishes, including corned beef hash and eggs Benedict.

Among the buffet offerings were fresh fruit and vegetables, boiled eggs, bacon, sausage, pancakes, and French toast.

Breakfast hours varied slightly, but you could generally expect to be served from 5:30 a.m. to 8 a.m.

Depending on the day, we either had a plated lunch or a buffet option. The menu changed daily and offered a variety of options.

Although I preferred it when we had plated meals (which was the majority of the time), the buffet during lunch or dinner was also tasty and fresh.

Lunch times also varied based on what we were doing, but generally spanned from 12 p.m. to 1:30 p.m.

The dinner menu also changed on a daily basis. Because it was unlimited, I was able to order as much — or as little — as I wanted.

Among my many choices was a rotating selection of desserts and side dishes.

Dinner was served in a rotation based on groups (which were assigned after boarding). Each night, half the guests went for dinner first, followed 30 minutes later by the other half. Dinner hours were typically between 6:30 p.m. and 8 p.m.

Although I partook just once, on sea days there was an afternoon tea offering between lunch and dinner. It had all the goodies you’d expect, including scones and finger sandwiches.

No cruise ship would be complete without the alcohol, right? The Ocean Endeavour had its own fair share of lounging spaces, but the most popular was the Nautilus Lounge , where the staffed bar served drinks. There was a nightly happy hour and drinks were reasonably priced — think $4.50 for a happy hour cocktail and $6.50 for full price .

You’d hope that a ship such as ours would contain a lot of amenities, especially since you spend so much time onboard. Happily, the answer is that: yes, there’s a ton to do. Although we had just over 100 passengers on the ship, there was a wide range of amenities from which to choose.

I enjoyed spending time at the spa, especially after hiking around in my heavy gear for many days. I found prices to be similar to what I’d pay in California , though San Diego certainly doesn’t include the rolling waves I experienced on the ship.

During the course of the cruise, I enjoyed 3 massages.

Did I optimistically bring workout gear? Yes. Did I ever actually work out? Obviously not.

However, for those who were extra enough to work out in addition to tramping around the White Continent, there was a decently-furnished gym with some resistance machines and aerobic equipment .

There was also a pool and hot tub on the ship, though neither was like any I had ever experienced. I brought a bathing suit but didn’t end up jumping into either. There was a multitude of reasons for this, but mainly because the pool and hot tub were only filled while we weren’t moving , and only then with seawater that had been warmed.

The ship also featured 2 saunas on the upper decks. While one of them could be reserved for personal use, the other was always open.

I never saw anyone actually using the sauna, but I did find plenty of wet hats, gloves, and scarves hung out to dry after expeditions.

There were lockers and showers available for the sauna as well.

I brought my e-reader with me on the ship, which was a good thing since there was so much downtime while traveling. For those who weren’t well-equipped, the ship also offered a small library at the Compass Club.

Although I packed my snow boots, I needn’t have bothered. Intrepid provided all travelers with a waterproof jacket, muck boots, and an inner liner . These were kept downstairs with the rest of your gear in the mud room.

Do you need Wi-Fi to survive? If so, don’t go to Antarctica. While the ship ostensibly had Wi-Fi, access was highly dependent on weather and disappeared entirely once we actually reached the continent.

Wi-Fi onboard was charged by the minute rather than the amount of data you consumed. I am a weak person and spent $200 for roughly 6 hours of connection , though much of that was spent cursing frantically as the log-out screen errored out while still charging me.

To make my point clear: it took me 2 hours to download a single white noise soundtrack I had forgotten to add to my phone before departure.

Long story short, the internet is expensive and costs a lot of money. Don’t buy it.

Apparently, our stateroom TVs showed Antarctic-themed shows and movies. I didn’t realize this until the last day, as our TV was broken. However, I’ve heard the selection was fairly limited.

Was this ship full of perky bingo games and karaoke parties? No, it wasn’t. But I was happier for it, and there were still a lot of different things to do. We spent 4 of our days at sea, which meant there were a lot of hours to fill. The crew did a great job with this.

One of the coolest things about a trip to Antarctica is that basically all the crew onboard are wildly fascinating. Want to hear a talk from someone who’s lived on the science station? Check. Interested in knowing the details of every fish below the Antarctic Circle? Check.

There was more to know than there was time to fill, and although I didn’t manage to make it to every lecture — there were a ton — I enjoyed the ones I attended.

I can’t say enough great things about the staff and crew aboard the Ocean Endeavour. Perhaps because there are so few passengers, it was a really personalized experience. We got to know plenty of folks by name and enjoyed spending time with all of them.

Since the ship was fairly small and there were so few passengers it really felt like a personalized experience. This was especially true for housekeeping, which visited our room twice per day. However, this wasn’t some “we come in the morning and hope you’re not there” deal — rather, they watched out to see when we left (for breakfast, workouts, or whatever) and took the opportunity to clean the room without interrupting our day. This was true whether I left the room at 7 or noon.

While gratuities weren’t mandatory, we did have the opportunity to add them to our onboard accounts. We were provided with a sheet recommending tip quantities for the staff. I opted to pay $10.50 per day plus an additional cash tip for housekeeping .

Exploring Antarctica

Is this the part you’ve all been waiting for? It’s the whole reason I booked, after all. Although it took us 2 and a half days to get down to Antarctica, the journey was worth it. Here’s a breakdown of all the locations we explored — and although the weather was cold (at around 25 degrees Fahrenheit), we were able to successfully make 100% of our landings.

Note that Z means we had a zodiac cruise and  L means we actually stepped foot on the ground.

Have you guys heard of the Drake Passage? Probably. Thanks to a relatively narrow distance between the Antarctic Peninsula and the outcropping of Argentina, the water through here is rapid and unpredictable. This meant that nearly all of our time at sea was spent staggering around , clinging to the walls, or not sleeping while the boat rocked relentlessly.

For what it’s worth, the crew assured us that we were experiencing extremely good weather, with waves at around 20 feet high. While I don’t get seasick , nearly everyone else on board did, and the ship doctor spent a great deal of time passing out anti-nausea medication . You’ve been warned.

Why waste all your time heading to Antarctica if you don’t actually go to Antarctica?

Perhaps the most exciting part of my journey was when I first set foot on land.

Was it as good as I’d hoped? No, it was better. I wish I had the words to describe to you the overwhelming awe that permeates these moments. You feel so large and so small and just so utterly, utterly grateful.

In order to make landings, we had to first disembark the Ocean Endeavour and climb onto a zodiac .

These zodiacs held 10 people and were able to land directly onshore, though it meant that every landing was a water landing . Fortunately, the company provided us with waterproof muck boots.

We made a total of 6 landings during the cruise, including Portal Point, Neko Harbour, Damoy Point, Joule Point, Port Lockroy, and Mikkelson Harbour.

While most of these included visits to local penguin rookeries , at some of them we also explored preserved ruins of past expeditions.

We also made a stop at Port Lockroy , which is maintained by the United Kingdom.

Along with a stop at the gift shop, we were able to mail out postcards from Port Lockroy. Apparently, it takes about 3 months to receive anything you send — I’m still waiting on the one I sent myself.

Hot Tip: Travelzoo  occasionally sells discounted cruises to Antarctica, so make sure to keep your eyes peeled. 

If you, like me, thought that Antarctica was relatively empty of wildlife, I’m here to tell you otherwise. Is it mostly birds? Yes. But it’s a lot of birds and they’re really cool.

There are also a ton of seals and more whales than you can shake a stick at.

No, seriously, we spotted thousands of animals during the journey.

I’m a writer, not a zoologist, so the best I can tell you is that we saw birds , whales , and seals .

However, along with our other departure information, Intrepid also sent along a record of all the wildlife we saw and when.

Although we did end up on land 6 different times, we also conducted a few different zodiac cruises .

There were multiple reasons for this: sometimes there was no good location to land, if we were last off the ship we might have needed to wait for others to leave, or the weather didn’t always allow for an immediate landing.

But cruising around was nearly as fun as walking around, and significantly easier since we didn’t have to tromp around in our gear. Plus the views were still pretty amazing .

Although all our landings and zodiac cruises were included with the price of the booking, there were optional add-ons.

Photography

Those who booked the photography course enjoyed dedicated zodiacs and time away from the other guests. You didn’t need to bring your own camera or have any experience; everything was taught on board . The total cost for the photography program was an additional $1,230 .

Sea Kayaking

If kayaking was more your thing, you could also sign up for the sea kayaking program. Again, this took place as an alternative to regularly scheduled activities, and kayakers were meant to go out a total of 6 times at a cost of $1,230 . However, windy weather meant they only made it out once — but prorated refunds were automatically given to guests.

Day Paddling

I’m not great at kayaking, but my roommate, Diana, convinced me to try out the day paddling. Day paddling differs from kayaking in that you’re on top of an inflatable kayak rather than inside a rigid-form one. It’s also only offered in the most serene of circumstances, which can mean that day paddling isn’t always available.

Diana and I joined up together in an inflatable kayak for an additional $150.  Although I was very nervous at first, I’m so glad that I did it.

Day paddling only took place once and lasted about an hour , though we spent the last twenty minutes or so hanging out with the whales nearby.

Snowshoeing

Snowshoeing was also an option for those who were interested. I didn’t partake since it involved an extra 5 miles of hiking in my already overwhelming gear, but it looked like fun. This was the least expensive add-on and charged just $100 .

Hey, we know you already paid for a bed and a toilet, but what if you decided to sleep on the ice in a bag instead? Just kidding — the sun doesn’t go down so there’s no sleeping involved!

Anyway, if you wanted to camp overnight you could pay an extra $449 and snag the opportunity to pee in a bucket in front of everyone.

Polar Plunge

One of the final activities available before returning to Argentina, the Polar Plunge was something about half of the guests participated in. I wasn’t one of them, but everyone who joined in looked like they had a fun (albeit cold) experience . The Polar Plunge was totally free, though it didn’t take place until our very last day in Antarctica.

Bottom Line: Although I only participated in 1 of the optional add-ons, I found it to be a worthwhile cost — especially since there were so many whales!

Before taking this trip I meandered the halls of the internet trying desperately to find accurate information as to what I should bring. While most of the products were winners, quite a few weren’t. So, here are some of the items I found most useful during my trip:

• Merino Wool Base Layer : There was laundry but it was very expensive. Merino wool stays good for a long time.
• Ski Goggles : Far superior to sunglasses and didn’t fog.
• Balaclava : My nose was the coldest part of my body, so I covered it up.
• 2 Pairs of Gloves : I only brought 1 and I desperately regretted it.
• Waterproof Pants : No, really, waterproof. Not just extra water resistant.
• Windproof Hat : For the same reason as the balaclava.
• Merino Wool Socks : These are thinner than regular wool socks and mean you can size down your enormous mud boots.
• Hand Warmers : These and toe warmers kept me toasty during those cold zodiac cruises.
• Swimsuit : In case you’re insane enough to do the polar plunge.
• Lounging Clothes : For non-expedition days.

Note that you may have a tough time redeeming points for your cruise, but that doesn’t mean you can’t earn a little extra when doing your clothes shopping. Consider checking out the best credit cards for clothes shopping for ideas on maximizing your points.

Traveling down to Antarctica has long been on my bucket list. While it was a costly experience, especially for someone who is used to traveling with points and miles, I’m so glad I did. It’ll probably be a few years before I can afford to make it down to Antarctica again, but trust me — I’m already looking.

The information regarding the Capital One Venture Rewards Credit Card was independently collected by Upgraded Points and not provided nor reviewed by the issuer.

Frequently Asked Questions

How much is a cruise to the antarctic.

Although prices can vary, expect to pay somewhere between $7,500 and $13,000. However, be aware that booking last minute or waiting for a sale can get you a better deal than this.

Are Antarctica cruises rough?

Antarctic cruises can be rough, especially if you encounter the Drake Passage on a bad day. If you’re prone to seasickness, consider flying down and meeting your cruise ship in Antarctica rather than making the crossing.

What is the best month to go to Antarctica?

The summer season in Antarctica is relatively short. You’ll want to visit between November and February for the best opportunities to spot wildlife and have good weather.

Which cruises go to Antarctica?

There are many different cruise lines that make their way down to Antarctica. However, in order to have the best chance of stepping on land, you’ll want to aim for a ship carrying fewer than 200 passengers.

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About Carissa Rawson

Carissa served in the U.S. Air Force where she developed her love for travel and new cultures. She started her own blog and eventually joined The Points Guy. Since then, she’s contributed to Business Insider, Forbes, and more.

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Spirit of Endeavour - Trip Information

Spirit of Endeavour (Yorkshire) CIO is a charity which operates the accessible widebeam canal boat Endeavour.

Endeavour is the second accessible wide beamed canal boat to be operated on the Skipton section of the Leeds-Liverpool canal. She was originally owned by a local disability charity, who also owned the first – the Marjorie Charlesworth, which ran from 1990 to 2003 when she was replaced by Endeavour.

In 2023, Endeavour was officially renamed ‘Richard’s Endeavour’ in honour of the founder of Spirit of Endeavour (Yorkshire) CIO, Richard Clarke, who sadly passed away in September 2023.

Endeavour is a 55’ long wide beam canal boat, licence to carry up to 12 passengers (including carers) of which up to four can be in wheelchairs. Endeavour is accessible, but day trips are open to all sectors of the community, families and friendship groups, whether using wheelchairs or not. The boat is crewed throughout the day by a fully trained volunteer skipper and crew.

Trips start from the rear of Skipton General Hospital car park where there is an access path down to the canal bank, and a purpose built ramp which leads to the boat mooring for easy embarkation on to Endeavour. Normally trips leave the hospital at around 10:30am returning at approximately 3:00pm to 3:30pm. Weather conditions can affect the trip duration and direction – especially high winds which can make trips towards Gargrave difficult.

Possible Trips

• Going south towards Kildwick which is a little more sheltered in windy conditions. This trip passes by the bluebell wood which is a sea of colour in April/May each year.
• Going north towards Gargrave providing views of the rolling fields between Skipton and Gargrave. Time permitting it is possible to take a trip through the first lock at Gargrave to experience the wonders of Victoria Engineering.  This makes the trip take up to an hour longer.
• For trips that have requested Fish and Chips, the trip goes one way for an hour, turns and returns to Skipton in time for lunch. After lunch the boat continues for a further hour before returning to Skipton.
• A split trip is possible where passengers change over at Kildwick. This can be useful when there is a need to accommodate more than 12 passengers. Up to 24 people can take part in this way. Often groups who take this approach take the other half of the group into Skipton to look around the shops.

Wildlife, particularly birds, are everywhere on the canal. Click here to see examples.

You can often see unusual boats on the canal. Click here to see examples.

On the way to Kildwick at bridge 183 is the site of a war memorial for the lost Polish air crew of a Wellington Bomber. Click here for the story.

Access to the Mooring and Wheelchair Users Information

Access to the mooring and loading ramp is via a path which leads from the hospital car park to the canal bank. The loading ramp is a short walk down the towpath. All surfaces are concrete and safe for use in all weathers.

In January / February 2024, Endeavour underwent major works to widen her wheelchair access. The majority of standard wheelchairs should now be able to access the saloon via the lift, but if you have a non standard wheelchair we strongly suggest that you check the size with us prior to booking. The lift has a weight limit of 300kg (47 stone) for a combination of both wheelchair and passenger.

We have had passengers whose wheelchairs are too large to allow them entry into the cabin and who choose to sit out on the front of the boat. This facility is available on the understanding that there is no shelter available, so suitable clothing must be brought for the weather, particularly if rain / wind is forecast. In addition, there will be no toilet facilities available.

Passenger Safety

It is the responsibility of the organiser to make sure that all passengers are able to comply with the safety requirements of the trip. For each trip there must  be a nominated representative onboard to communicate with the crew and to take responsbility for passengers, especially those who are less mobile. In case of an emergency evacuation, the nominated representative is responsible for providing enough support to evacuate passengers, in particular those who are in wheelchairs or otherwise unable to disembark alone. The skipper and crew have, of course, been trained in safety and dealing with emergencies, and will give directions as to evacuation, but are not trained carers and as such are not responsible for managing passengers. A safety briefing will be given at the start of each trip. A risk assessment and copy of our current insurance cover can be provided on request.

Passengers travel at their own risk and responsibility remains with passengers or their carers at all times. Passengers must follow the instructions of the crew on all aspects of safety.

The crew of the Endeavour are all volunteers and give their time willingly. Our volunteers are trained in all aspects of boat safety to ensure you have a pleasant trip. There is always a trained & qualified skipper onboard, who is ultimately responsible for managing the boat and all aspects of the trip. Each skipper holds a CCBM certification issued by the National Community Boats Association which is also a requirement of the Canal and River Trust for operating craft such as Endeavour.

There may be times where the weather may limit what can be done on a trip for your safety and that of the crew. Occasionally if it is really windy, we may find we have to cancel the trip and re-schedule for a later date.

Please be assured that we will only cancel for safety reasons or if there are mechanical problems that prevent the boat from moving safely. We may also have to alter the cruising direction from time to time or even curtail part of the trip because of bridge faults.

We try to run trips in all weathers and all the crew are fully equipped with rain wear.

Because we run Christmas trips, we can sometime find winter weather on the day. Thankfully, it is rare to find weather as bad as this.

Ocean Endeavour

• A large choice of activities including yoga, hiking, kayaking, Zodiac expeditions, a photography program, snowshoeing & camping.
• The ship does not charge single supplements on single cabins, which makes solo travel to Antarctica more economically viable.
• A large fleet of 22 zodiacs and multiple loading points enables guests to venture out and onto the ice in smaller groups.

With her ice-strengthened hull and advanced navigation equipment, the 200-passenger Ocean Endeavour is a small expedition ship offering adventure in Antarctica. She was refurbished in 2017, and presents the class and comfort of a hotel, complete with great food, excellent guides, lots of wellness options, and a wide variety of exploration activities. 

Onboard, the Ocean Endeavor cabins come in twelve different categories including dedicated single cabins for solo travelers (or the option to share with a traveler of the same gender at no extra cost), spacious suites and triple cabins equipped with two bathrooms. Twin cabins come in various sizes and layouts. You can choose one or two portholes, a single picture window or two windows. You can also opt for two single beds or one double bed.

The largest staterooms are the Junior Suites and the Owner’s Suite, each measuring 320 square feet. The Owner’s Suite has two large windows facing the bow, as well as a bathroom with a tub. Each Junior Suite has a single picture window. All cabins have flat-screen TVs and DVD players.

Specifications

• Staff & Crew 124
• Guide & Crew to Guest Ratios 1:8 & 1:1.6
• Guest to Space Ratio 1:65
• Number of Decks 6
• Number of Cabins 114
• Zodiacs & Loading Bays 22 & 4
• Year Built 1982 (upgraded 2017)
• Ice Class 1B
• Length 449.8 ft (137.1 m)
• Beam 68.9 ft (21.0 m)
• Draft 19.0 ft (5.8 m)
• Cruising Speed 15 kn
• Stabilizers Yes

About the Ocean Endeavour

The Ocean Endeavour’s Polaris Restaurant presents large buffets for breakfast and lunch, including a made-to-order food station. Dinner is plated and ordered from a menu with complimentary wine.

The Compass Club has a tea and coffee station as well as a juice & smoothie bar. The ship’s bar is in the Nautilus Lounge, with a professional bartender serving a selection of soft drinks, juices, liquors, spirits and beer. 

Life On Board

The ship offers a superb guest experience with plenty of common areas, both indoors and outdoors, where you can enjoy the company of your fellow travelers. You’ll find spacious lounge and bar areas, a sundeck and a top deck observation room with panoramic windows, as well as lecture theaters, a library and a polar boutique.

The Nautilus Lounge has  couches, tables, chairs and large viewing windows, which create an inviting space for holding lectures, briefings and events. The Aurora Lounge also offers lectures ranging from Antarctic marine wildlife to photography workshops and the history of the Antarctic Treaty. An onboard photo library offers a couple of laptops for photo uploads, which are later shared with all guests. You can also mingle on board with researchers associated with the Scientists in Residence program.

The Meridian Club is an additional lounge with panoramic windows and access to an outside deck, which plays host to ping pong matches. The library, found in the Compass Club, features polar materials and reference books. The Polar Boutique sells gifts and any additionally required gear.

The medical clinic is staffed with an English-speaking doctor. Internet access is available for purchase. Three outside decks have ample space for excellent observation of the seascapes, snowscapes and wildlife. These are equipped with comfortable lounge chairs and feature a heated saltwater pool, a hot tub and “His and Hers” saunas with large windows to ensure that you don’t miss any wildlife sightings or icebergs that may be floating by.

Other newly-designed health and fitness features include a gym with ellipticals, exercise bike and other exercise equipment. Spa treatments, yoga and stretching classes are all designed to enhance your personal wellness. 

The ship carries forward-facing Zodiacs for exploration and remote landings. The guides and expedition leaders are all polar-passionate with rich backgrounds in marine biology, history, geology and more. The Ocean Endeavour offers a high staff-to-guest ratio and every off-ship excursion is accompanied by expedition guides.

A fleet of tandem kayaks and stand-up paddleboards enables regular paddles in the icy cold waters. Camping gear, snowshoes, cross-country skis and mountaineering equipment can be hired for added cost to witness Antarctica from a different perspective. Zodiac cruising and on-shore hiking are included with every departure. 

Twin Porthole

Twin & double window, owner's suite, junior suite, superior twin & double, select twin, comfort twin, single window, single porthole, twin interior, triple interior, single interior, description, itineraries.

• Best of Antarctica: Pristine Wilderness
• Best of Antarctica: Wildlife Explorer
• Best of Antarctica: Whale Journey

• Journey To The Antarctic Circle
• Shackleton's Falklands, South Georgia & Antarctica Expedition
• Ultimate Antarctica: Falklands, South Georgia & Antarctic Circle

Departure Dates

• 2024 Departures
• 2025 Departures
• 2026 Departures

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Get in touch with us via phone or form today and you’ll be assigned a dedicated Antarctica specialist who’ll be with you every step of the way to help you choose, book and plan the right Antarctica cruise for you. Here’s how it works:

Listen & Match

We’ll carefully listen to your aspirations and curate an impartial shortlist of personalized polar cruise recommendations—and pre- and post-cruise extensions—to match your desired experience.

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Next we’ll place a free, no obligation, 24-hour cabin hold on your preferred cruise option whilst we discuss the final details. Book and relax safe in the knowledge you’ll be paying the lowest price guaranteed.

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Then we’ll provide you with our expert packing advice, insider travel tips, and more to ensure you are fully prepared for—and maximize your enjoyment of—your once-in-a-lifetime Antarctica expedition.

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• Antarctic Circle
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Endeavour Rib Services

Click here to book endeavour.

“Endeavour” is the fastest passenger boat operating in the islands. An 8m Rib with 300hp engine capable of speeds up to 30kts. Very stable and well equipped she is fully licensed & MCA coded for 11 passengers (optimum being 9 adults & 2 child). Endeavour is helmed by professional, well qualified and experienced skippers. We are proud to be part of the Wise Scheme set up to promote and protect marine wild life.

Water Taxi “Specials”

Let us transport you between the islands safely, quickly and in style. We offer a private water taxi service between the islands at a time to suit you (tide & weather permitting). Fun fast and exclusive way to arrive at your destination. Avoid the masses of the bigger ferries and go at times to suit you.

Let us drop you on an uninhabited island away from the crowds for an adventure.

8:30am-6pm £65 up to 6 pers, £10each for 7 +pers

Before 8:30am after 6pm £70 up to 6pers £10pp 7 +

Just call to arrange a pick up.

Keep an eye on  Endeavour Facebook Page  as if we have a return trip from a special we will offer a single trip priced per person with no minimum fee.

Seal Express

A 50 minute trip down to one of the main seal colonies, to view and enjoy our islands Atlantic Grey Seals. Perfect for those short on time but keen to see these fantastic animals in their natural environment. Ideal for families with little ones. £30pp  £24 u12’s

Scilly Explorer (1Hour)

Lets us take you on a whistle stop tour to explore and share with you the highlights of our stunning archipelago. Beaches, islets, lighthouses, rock formations and of course seabirds, seals and possibly porpoise & dolphin. Our skippers will share with you their local knowledge of ship wrecks and islands history. Perfect if you are limited on time and wish to see as much as possible. £32pp £26 U12’s

Marine Life Seafari

A quick trip out through the islands in calm & fair weather conditions to look for dolphins, porpoise and seals  and sea birds that are regular visitors to our waters. We may even get lucky with visiting whales!!  Approx 1.5 hours excursion, great fun trip taking in the sights and spotting the amazing wild life Scilly is blessed with. Endeavours speed means we can cover a larger area looking for wildlife in a shorter period than other boats. £40pp £32 u12’s

Cast Away Day

Let us whisk you away and drop you on an uninhabited island or isolated beach. Self isolating Scilly style! Take a picnic or order one to be made for you from the  fantastic catering company Tanglewood Kitchen. We will of course pick you up again later!

Evening Shuttle & Schedule Trips:

In peak season we run a scheduled evening trip giving you the opportunity to go between St. Marys, Tresco or St. Martins, Tresco to St. Martins or vice versa for a stroll or evening meal. Trips run between 5:30-6:30pm and return pick ups between 8:30-9:30pm depending on tides and time of year. £15pp rtn. Tresco- St. Marts £10rtn

All of our trips can be operated as private charter if you would rather not share the trip.

All excursions have a minimum numbers required to be viable to run.

Endeavour Prices 2023

Private charters, experienced for filming work, survey, safety & escort cover also available.

Endeavour is an open boat so there is a high chance of getting wet so please dress accordingly. Operation may be limited in poor weather for your comfort & safety. For your safety we do have restrictions on carrying persons with health or mobility issues. Please discuss any health issues or concerns prior to booking. Please read the following before making a booking.

Rib Trip Safety Info

To book online please follow link below. It is possible to arrange pick ups for all trips at all Off -Islands (tide dependant) please request this in the booking notes. An additional fee for this may apply.

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Our activity specials are tried and tested fun, adventure-filled and memorable moments on the water.

New This Summer!

Honwave 4m boats for hire.

These simple and seaworthy boats are perfect for heading off to explore the islands for yourself. Powered by a 6Hp outboard, perfect to head off and picnic on another island or do a spot of fishing.

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Trip report: Land-based with kids (April 2024) - Galapagos Islands Forum

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Trip report: Land-based with kids (April 2024)

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Hey everyone! I'm excited to share our land-based Galapagos trip report. This forum has been a such a valuable resource during our planning process, so I hope our experience can help others, especially those traveling with young kids like us.

Our children are 12 and 9, and our main goal was to soak in as much wildlife/sealife as possible while still enjoying some pool and beach time. Overall, we had an incredible adventure, and our kids were blown away by all the animals they got to see. The weather was sunny and beautiful (although definitely hot!). Plus, we met some super friendly fellow travelers—way friendlier than in other places we've visited. I think all the effort it takes to plan a land-based tour makes everyone extra excited and grateful to be there.

Here's a quick overview of our itinerary:

Day 1: Flew from Chicago to Guayaquil (CHI->MIA-GYE)

Day 2: Explored Las Peñas, then flew from Guayaquil to Santa Cruz

Day 3: Enjoyed Tortuga Bay and visited the Charles Darwin Research Station

Day 4: Explored Las Grietas, Los Gemelos, Rancho Primicias, and Lava Tunnels

Day 5: Flew to Isabela, relaxed at Playa Villamil

Day 6: Hiked Sierra Negra / Volcan Chico and took a bike ride to Muro de las Lagrimas

Day 7: Explored Los Tuneles and relaxed at Playa Villamil

Day 9: Flew back to Guayaquil

Day 10: Flew back to Chicago (GYE->MIA->CHI)

This was during the kids' spring break so it was the most days we could do. You can see we really only spent one day in San Cristobal. I wish we could've stayed longer, especially to do Kicker Rock or 360. But in the end, we were happy with how our schedule worked out. I highly recommend spending enough time on Isabela—it's absolutely stunning and ended up being everyone's favorite island, followed closely by Santa Cruz.

Logistics and general tips

We started planning about six months ahead, booking flights and hotels, and then spent some time each week researching tours, restaurants, and logistics. (I also put in reviews of the hotels and restaurants we visited, in case you want more info)

We knew about the cash issues, especially on Isabela. So we arrived in Santa Cruz with $600 in various bills, including $5s and $10s from a PNC bank ATM in Chicago. This got us through the airport, TCT card fees ($5), and the Galapagos entrance fee ($100). We also used cash for transportation from Baltra to Puerto Ayora.

Once in Santa Cruz, we found Banco Pacifico ATMs where we could withdraw up to $200 each evening, as $200 is the max withdrawal amount. Most places in Santa Cruz accepted credit cards, but some added a 15-18% fee if you used one, so we used cash in those cases.

By the time we got to Isabela, we had about $800 in cash from the daily withdrawals, which covered local transportation, meals, and miscellaneous expenses. We ended up with some left over, so we didn't need to hit an ATM again. However, we pre-paid for our two big tours a few weeks ahead, so we didn't have to factor that into our cash flow.

As far as small bills, our hotel was happy to break $20 bills for us. And bigger restaurants and stores can also give change. It was mostly smaller shops and taxis where it was trickier. Sometimes they rounded down, or another time they let me bring the extra $1 the next day.

- Getting there

Entry to the Galapagos was smooth, with almost no line at the TCT booth in Guayaquil. We pre-filled our forms, so the whole process took about 20 minutes. In Santa Cruz, we paid the $100/pp fee in cash, then took a $5 bus to the ferry and a $1 boat ride to the other side. Taxis were plentiful and quoted $25, which wasn't much more than bus tickets for four so we did that. The ride took about 35 minutes.

- Interisland travel

We flew between islands because one of our kids is prone to seasickness. So a two-hour ferry in potentially choppy waters was a nonstarter :)

Emetebe flights were generally on time, but be prepared for a tiny Isabela airport with no AC or running water in the bathrooms (hopefully that was just an issue that day and not the norm).

I bought the tickets that allow 25 lbs/passenger, and paid for 20 additional pounds for each adult. That added up to 140 pounds, and incredibly the total weight of our suitcases + carry-ons was 141 pounds! They weigh everything together, so no weight distribution issues.

If you fly into Isabela, I suggest you pre-arrange a pickup—we did not see any taxis outside the airport. In San Cristobal one would drive by every few minutes.

- Sunscreen / bugspray

Definitely bring lots of sunscreen. As soon as you are outside during the day, you feel the sun constantly beat on you. We re-applied sunscreen every 2-3 hours and no one had any major sunburn.

Also consider bugspray for evening outdoor dinners near water, as mosquitoes will be out in force. Some restaurants provide bugspray (Almar, Midori), but most don't.

We pre-booked the Isabela tours with Pahoehoe (Sierra Negra and Los Tuneles). We did this to avoid having to carry even more cash, and also because I read that some of the more popular tours do sell out (Pahoehoe did charge a 5% fee for using our credit cards)

I had read on many sites that it's best to try and book once on the island as you can get better prices, but talking to other people on the tours it didn't seem like this was the case. One of them even complained he got a higher price for Los Tuneles because he was booking the day before and there were limited seats available. Or maybe it's just a matter of asking around.

In the confirmation email, Pahoehoe asked us to visit the office on our arrival to Isabela, to confirm tours and get further instructions. I'm glad I did, because the owner took the time to walk me through the Sierra Negra hike, which I was completely unprepared for. They also helped all of us try our snorkel gear the day before, so we didn't have issues the day of.

- Sierra Negra / Volcano Chico

This is a 10 mile hike in the sun and it gets hot! Pahoehoe advised us to bring 2 liters of water per person. For my two kids and myself, I brought 7 water bottles split across our 3 backpacks (for a total of about 5L). By the end of the hike we had about two left. Pahoehoe did pack lunches for us with a juice box for each as well. Hiking shoes are definitely in order.

- Los Tuneles

This is snorkeling along with a short walk on the lava rocks so you can take pictures of the rock formations. I advise bringing water shoes or any closed toe sandals because otherwise you risk cuts when walking on the rocks. Otherwise just enjoy snorkeling as there is plenty of sea animals to see (we saw turtles, fish, sea horses, sharks, eels, mantas and small fish).

Note that murky water will affect your pics if you have a phone or gopro. You will be able to take pictures of the animals underwater, but unless you get closer it will look grainy because of all the particles floating around in the water. I don't think the water is dirty, this seems to be mainly the fact that the water is relatively shallow.

The guide will bring a gopro, and take pictures and video. After the tour is over, go back to their office and they will download the pictures directly to your phone (takes a few minutes to transfer). His pictures were WAY better than anything I took, so I was glad we did this.

- Muro de Lagrimas

There are plenty of shops renting bikes on the main strip. Be prepared for sandy roads, which makes it very difficult to bike especially for kids. Eventually we figured out it's better to just walk the bike through those patches, and ride where it's not sandy or the sand looks firm.

- Los Gemelos / Rancho Primicias

For this one we just asked a taxi driver if he would be willing to take us to both locations and wait for us. He was happy to do so, and quoted us $50 which seemed reasonable for driving four people around for a few hours. He knew all the logistics of both places and told us in advance what to expect as we arrived and where to meet him afterwards.

- Las Grietas

We went there early. Unless you’re a resident you’ll need a guide, and the guides only go out every hour (our group left at 9:45am). Early in the morning there were not that many people, but by the time we left (around 11:30) there were a lot more people walking towards las Grietas. So I suspect it fills up as the day goes by.

- Restaurants

3/4 in our family are vegetarians, and only one of us is pescatarian. For anyone that needs it, here is a list of restaurants we liked in the islands that are vegetarian-friendly

Santa Cruz: Almar, Midori, Agave Studio, 1835 Coffee Lab, Galapagos Deli. In addition, if you want beers with a view, Santa Cruz brewery can accommodate vegetarians to an extent (they made vegetarian nachos for us).

Isabela: Booby trap, Gracias Madre, Maestro de Casa

San Cristobal: Guiseppe's

Guayaquil: La Fondue

- Cellphone / wifi

We had enough cellphone signal for texting, emailing, WhatsApp, and light web browsing, but not much else. Signal dropped as soon as we left the main towns.

While all hotels offered Wi-Fi, it was very unstable. Particularly in the mornings and evenings, it was almost unusable, I assume because many guests were trying to upload their pictures to social media and the likes :)

I recommend downloading offline maps for the entire Galapagos region on both Google and Apple Maps. This way, if you find yourself without signal, you can still navigate your way around.

If your kids like to watch shows, don’t count on being able to stream anything. Download everything beforehand.

We did laundry once in Isabela. There are several small laundry shops, and they will have your laundry ready next day. They quoted me $1/lb which seem reasonable and way better than the $1/piece the hotel wanted :)

I know there's concerns about security after what happened in Guayaquil in January. Like many others, we were initially apprehensive when the news broke, opting to wait and assess the situation as time went by. As things calmed down, we felt comfortable proceeding with our plans.

During our time in the Galapagos Islands, we felt completely safe, at any hour of the day or night.

In Guayaquil we took more precautions. We limited our outings to tourist areas and only during daylight hours. We also noticed security guards in our hotel and the general airport area. There were plenty of guests at our hotel. The sense I got was that by exercising common sense precautions, similar to those in any major city, one could navigate Guayaquil safely. That being said, I know some opted to stay exclusively at the airport hotel and depart the following morning for their flights .

That’s all the major points I thought would be useful to pass along. Happy to answer questions as well. I know planning a land-based trip can be daunting, but know that it is absolutely worth it! We were all saying this morning we would go back in a heartbeat :)

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