Best of Antarctica: Whale Journey | Ocean Nova

15% off all dates/cabins 
Valid for new bookings until 31 March 25 
See detailed promotional T&Cs below

11 Days
Save Up To 15%

WAS From AUD 13,735   Now From AUD 11,675

STYLE: Small Ship Expedition Cruise

Trip Code: ACONWHJ

DIFFICULTY RATING: 2 (light adventure)

Start: Ushuaia, Argentina

Finish: Ushuaia, Argentina

SHIP: Ocean Nova

DestinationDestination

Antarctic Peninsula, Antarctica

MealsMeals

Breakfast at Hotel & All Meals Onboard the Ship

TransportTransport

Group Transfers On Arrival, Embarkation & Disembarkation

TransportAccommodation

Hotel & Cabin Onboard a Ship

DEPARTURE DATES

Season 2025-26 Season 2026-27

28 February 2026

09 March 2026

18 March 2026



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Included SightseeingIncluded Sightseeing

Daily Antarctica Excursions, Zodiac Cruising, Onboard Expert Lectures, Briefings by the Experienced Expedition Team and Citizen Science Activites onboard

 

NOTE: Itinerary is subject to change depending on weather & ice conditions 

OVERVIEW

Embark on a journey of discovery on this 11-day journey designed for wildlife lovers; set sail towards the location where whales gather in their most significant numbers on the Antarctic Peninsula. As you enter the frozen wilderness of the White Continent, sculptured icebergs, thunderous calving glaciers, imposing mountain ranges and ice-strewn waters all lie in wait.

While sailing on the nimble and ice-strengthened Ocean Nova and exploring by Zodiac, scan the icy waters for the silhouettes of these mighty marine mammals as they glide through ice floes or break the Antarctic silence with spectacular acrobatics.

Add encounters with curious penguins, basking seals, and many fascinating seabirds, and you’ll be on track for a journey you’ll never forget. 

ITINERARY

Arrival Day, Ushuaia, Argentina

Welcome to Ushuaia, the gateway to Antarctica.

On arrival at Ushuaia Airport, take your included transfer from the airport to our joining hotel.

Learn more about the journey ahead and the details for tomorrow’s embarkation during our ‘icebreaker’ at your hotel tonight.

If you have some time to spare before the icebreaker, we suggest you head downtown to do some souvenir shopping or taste some classic Argentinian flavours at one of Ushuaia’s fantastic local restaurants.

SPECIAL INFORMATION: If you arrive in Ushuaia on Day 1, an arrival transfer from Ushuaia Airport to the hotel is included. Your travel documents will provide full details.

Embark in Ushuaia, Argentina

Enjoy a leisurely morning before your coach transfer to the port of Ushuaia, where you’ll board the Ocean Nova, your home for the next nine nights. Downtown Ushuaia is compact and perfect for exploring on foot, offering a beautiful start to your day. Don’t forget your camera to capture the stunning snow-capped Andes Mountains backdrop.

After meeting your Expedition Team on board and settling into your cabin, head to the outer decks as the Ocean Nova sails through the historic Beagle Channel towards Antarctica. Then, join the excitement inside to learn more about the upcoming days.

At Sea, Drake Passage - Day 3 & 4

Spend two days travelling across the legendary waters of the Drake Passage, named after the British seafarer Sir Francis Drake, towards the Antarctic Peninsula and the South Shetland Islands.

If conditions allow, there will be a chance to enjoy the outer deck spaces, scouting for dolphins, whales and various seabirds passing by, including the iconic wandering albatross with its enormous three-meter wingspan.

Our comprehensive lecture program will also get underway for you to join at your leisure, with our team of polar experts sharing fascinating insights into Antarctic history, geology, biology, and everything in between.

If the weather is on our side, you should reach the Islands of the Antarctic Peninsula by early evening on day four – the first sighting of land always builds great anticipation on any expedition south.

South Shetland Islands & Antarctica - Day 5 to 8

The Antarctic Peninsula is known for many wildlife sightings in front of stunning backdrops of mountains, icy landscapes and water. These provide incredible scenes as you search for whales migrating along the coast. The peak of the migration season (February and March) is the best opportunity to see these majestic ocean dwellers, as all Antarctic whale species migrate long distances, feeding in the cold, nutrient-rich Southern Ocean during the southern summer. The most common species found in the region are humpback, minke and fin whales, and orcas.

As whale season is in full swing, you have the unique opportunity to participate in one of our exciting onboard Citizen Science projects, the Happy Whale Project. Here, you can upload photos of whale’s tails (flukes) online, along with details of where the images are taken, which are then used to analyse and identify the individual whale and track its movement across the oceans. Your contribution could make a real difference in understanding and conserving these magnificent creatures.

Sightings can happen from the outer decks of the ship, during a Zodiac excursion, or on the ship’s bridge with your Captain, where our open bridge policy allows you into the command centre of the Ocean Nova for a look at the inner workings of your expedition and access to the best place to spot whales.

A typical expedition day begins with a wake-up call from your Expedition Leader around 7.00 am, giving you time to prepare for the day before joining your fellow travellers for breakfast in the Dining Room. Weather permitting, you can look forward to at least two excursions each day, offering plenty of chances to immerse yourself in the stunning Antarctic landscape. For those who crave even more adventure, treat yourself to an optional paddling excursion that offers a new perspective of this frozen expanse. You’ll also be able to take a polar plunge off the Ocean Nova. There’s nothing like a quick dip in the Antarctic’s icy depths to invigorate you!

At Sea, Drake Passage - Day 9 & 10

As the Ocean Nova begins its journey back to our home port of Ushuaia, now is your time to reflect on your fantastic journey. We’re scheduled to reach the relatively calm waters of the Beagle Channel by the evening of day 10, marking the beginning of our return journey.

This evening, enjoy a slideshow of stunning images taken by our Expedition Photographer during your voyage - yours to cherish as a lasting memento of your unforgettable Antarctic adventure. Your final meal in the Dining Room is often a highlight of our Antarctic adventurers, so live it up and enjoy it as you celebrate an incredible adventure with your fellow travellers and Expedition Team.

Disembark in Ushuaia, Argentina

After breakfast, disembark the Ocean Nova as your Antarctic expedition ends, and the memories of a fantastic adventure begin.
A morning transfer to Ushuaia Airport or downtown is included.

SPECIAL INFORMATION: If you would like to stay longer in Ushuaia beyond today or would like to explore South America, please speak to your booking agent to discuss options.

If you are flying out today, please book your flight to depart Ushuaia after midday in case of any delays caused by unfavourable weather conditions.

DOWNLOAD ITINERARY PDF

WHY CHOOSE THIS CRUISE?

  • Marvel at Majestic Humpback Whales: Witness the awe-inspiring migration of these gentle giants as they journey to Antarctica to feast on krill.

  • Daily Zodiac Cruises & Shore Excursions: Dive into the heart of the Antarctic wilderness with at least two excursions daily, weather permitting, allowing you to fully immerse yourself in the breathtaking surroundings.

  • Enriching Lectures by Polar Experts: Gain invaluable insights from onboard specialists covering a range of fascinating topics, from the diverse wildlife to the unique geology of the region.

  • Spectacular Wildlife Encounters: Be captivated by the sight of Gentoo and Chinstrap penguins, Fur and Weddell seals, albatrosses, and more, all set against the stunning backdrop of towering icebergs and glaciated mountains.

  • Engage in Citizen Science Projects: Contribute to meaningful research by photographing whale flukes for Happy Whale, helping track and identify individual whales across the oceans.

Important Information

  • * Early Bird Discount - Save 15% 

    Save 15% on all dates/cabins 
    Valid for new bookings until 31 March 25 
    Not combinable with other offers unless specified

     

    Please Contact Us for the latest availability, pricing and details of your preferred voyage. Chimu Adventures are Antarctica Experts and we will endeavour to find you the perfect Antarctica expedition cruise to ensure you have an unforgettable adventure!

    NOTE: Pricing is subject to change, currency fluctuation and availability at the time of booking and may be varied without notice by us or any of the operators and partners we work with. It is only confirmed and guaranteed at the time of making a booking, agreeing to our terms and conditions and paying a deposit. 

  • Prices are based on per person, twin share* (unless otherwise stated for triple/quad cabins) 

    Prices and avaialbility are correct at time of publishing but are subject to change at any time.  

     

    *Itinerary is subject to change depending on weather and ice conditions

  • INCLUSIONS

    All meals onboard the Ocean Nova, including snacks and 24-hour tea and coffee
    Onboard lecture program led by our expert Expedition Team
    All shore excursions and Zodiac cruises (except paid adventure options with cost)
    Insulated inner jacket, yours to keep
    Complimentary use of rubber Muck boots and outer Expedition Parka, on loan for the duration of your expedition (exclusions apply - see below)
    Group arrival transfer from Ushuaia Airport to Albatros Hotel (Day One)
    Pre-night (Day One) stay at the Albatross Hotel in Ushuaia, including breakfast (based on your cabin configuration)
    Transfer from the Albatross Hotel to the Ocean Nova for embarkation (Day Two)
    Group departure transfer from the ship to either Ushuaia airport (selected times only) or downtown Ushuaia (luggage storage available) 
    Full access to the onboard gym
    All port taxes

     

    EXCLUSIONS

    International or domestic flights, unless specified
    Airport transfers, taxes, and excess baggage charges, unless specified
    Meals other than those specified in the pre-departure information
    Visa and passport fees
    Mandatory travel insurance with a minimum required coverage 
    A fuel surcharge may be applied to all bookings
    Optional paid adventure activities - Please let your booking agent know if you would like to add 
    Alcoholic or other selected beverages
    Laundry and communication services including Wi-fi (where available) on board
    Gratuities for the Expedition Team and crew
    Miscellaneous extras and all personal expenses
    Smaller size Inner Jacket, Expedition Parka and Muck boots may not be available for minors depending on size requirements. Additionally, a lifejacket that meets our safety standards is mandatory for all minors 15 years and under and must be provided by the parent/guardian. Please contact your booking agent for details.
    Some larger-sized insulated Inner Jacket, Expedition Parka and Muck boots. Please contact your booking agent for more information.

  • 2 (light adventure)

  • Available on request. No single supplement if willing to share with other guest/s of the same gender in Triple and Explorer Twin cabin categories (subject to availability). Contact Us for more details.

    Classic Twin cabins will have a Single Supplement for Solo Use, at a rate of 1.8 x Twin rate

  • Departure Date,  Fuel Surcharges, Cabin Category, Currency Fluctuations, Seasonality & Availability.

FROM PRICE INFORMATION

  • From Price is based on a Triple Cabin 
  • Valid for 18 March 2026 Departure
  • See 'Pricing & Dates' tab for detailed departures, pricing and availability (Availability last updated 11 Mar 25)
  • Available until 31 March 25 unless withdrawn prior 


Please Contact Us for the latest availability, pricing and details of your preferred voyage. Chimu Adventures are Antarctica Experts and we will endeavour to find you the perfect Antarctica expedition cruise to ensure you have an unforgettable adventure!

See detailed promotional T&Cs below

NOTE: Pricing is subject to change, currency fluctuation and availability at the time of booking and may be varied without notice by us or any of the operators and partners we work with. It is only confirmed and guaranteed at the time of making a booking, agreeing to our terms and conditions and paying a deposit.