Best of Antarctica: Whale Discovery | Ocean Nova

Welcome to Ushuaia, the gateway to Antarctica. Upon arrival at Ushuaia Airport, enjoy the transfer included to the joining hotel.

This evening, you’ll have the chance to meet your fellow travellers and our local team during the 'icebreaker' at your hotel. Our team will share more about the journey ahead and provide details for tomorrow’s embarkation.

If you have some free time before the gathering, we recommend exploring downtown Ushuaia. You can shop for unique souvenirs or indulge in authentic Argentinian cuisine at one of the town’s excellent 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.

Enjoy a relaxing morning before your coach transfer to the port of Ushuaia, where you'll board the Ocean Nova, your home for the next 10 nights. If you have some free time, take a leisurely walk through downtown Ushuaia—it's a charming, compact town with breathtaking views of the snow-capped Andes, so be sure to have your camera ready!

Once aboard, meet your fellow travellers and Expedition Team, settle into your cabin, and head to the outer decks as the Ocean Nova embarks on its journey through the historic Beagle Channel, bound for Antarctica. Later, join the excitement indoors as you learn about the incredible adventures ahead.

Embark on a two-day journey across the legendary waters of the Drake Passage, named after British seafarer Sir Francis Drake, as you head toward the Antarctic Peninsula and the South Shetland Islands.

If conditions permit, take advantage of the outer deck spaces to look out for dolphins, whales, and various seabirds, including the majestic Wandering Albatross, with its impressive three-meter wingspan. Our engaging lecture program will also begin, allowing you to join at your leisure as our team of polar experts provides captivating insights into Antarctic history, geology, biology, and much more.

With favourable weather, you’ll reach the Islands of the Antarctic Peninsula by early evening on day four, with the first sighting of land always sparking excitement and anticipation for the next phase of your southern adventure.

The Antarctic Peninsula offers incredible wildlife sightings against breathtaking backdrops of towering mountains, icy landscapes, and pristine waters. As you explore, watch for migrating whales, one of the region’s most awe-inspiring attractions.

The peak of the migration season, from February to March, provides the best chance to witness these majestic ocean giants. All Antarctic whale species embark on long migrations during this time, feeding in the nutrient-rich Southern Ocean throughout the southern summer. The most common species found in the region are humpback, minke, fin whales, and Orcas.

As whale season is in full swing, you’ll have the exciting opportunity to participate in our Citizen Science project, the Happy Whale Project. You can upload photos of whale tails (flukes) and location details here. These images are used to track individual whales and their movements across the oceans. Your contribution can help us understand and conserve these magnificent creatures.

Whale sightings can happen from the ship's outer decks, during a Zodiac excursion, or join the Captain and his team on the ship's bridge. With our open bridge policy, you’re invited into Ocean Nova's command centre, where you can see the expedition in action and get the best vantage point for spotting whales.

A typical expedition day begins with a wake-up call from your Expedition Leader at 7.00 am, followed by breakfast with your fellow travellers 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 provides 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!

As the Ocean Nova begins its journey back to Ushuaia, take this time to reflect on the incredible adventure you've experienced. By the evening of Day 11, we are expected to reach the calm waters of the Beagle Channel, signalling the start of our return journey.

Enjoy a slideshow of stunning images our Expedition Photographer took during your voyage - yours to cherish as a lasting memento of your unforgettable Antarctic adventure. By the evening of Day 12, you’ll enter the relatively calm waters of the Beagle Channel, signalling the start of your return home.

Your final meal will be a memorable highlight of the expedition tonight. Celebrate the unforgettable moments of your Antarctic adventure with your fellow travellers and Expedition Team, cherishing the connections and experiences you’ve shared.

After breakfast, it’s time to disembark the Ocean Nova as your unforgettable Antarctic expedition comes to an end, leaving you with memories of a truly remarkable adventure. 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.