Best of Antarctica: The Holy Grail with Mark Seymour | Ocean Nova

Welcome to Ushuaia, Argentina, the world’s southernmost city.

Upon arrival at Ushuaia Airport, enjoy the included transfer to your hotel. Join us for an 'icebreaker' at your hotel this evening to learn more about the journey ahead and the details for tomorrow’s embarkation.

If you arrive early, there are many ways to entertain yourself at ‘the End of the World.’ Check out the Museo Marítimo to learn about the region’s history, or stroll down Avenida San Martín for any last-minute essentials before departing for Antarctica.

Enjoy a traditional meal at a local restaurant and sample some of Argentina’s famous red wine.

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 leisurely morning before your coach transfers to the port of Ushuaia, where you'll board the Ocean Nova, your home for the next 9 nights. If time permits in the morning, take a stroll through downtown Ushuaia - it’s charming and compact, with stunning views of the snow-capped Andes, so don’t forget your camera!

Once aboard, meet your Expedition Team, settle into your cabin, and head to the outer decks as the Ocean Nova sets sail through the historic Beagle Channel, heading towards Antarctica. Later, join in the excitement indoors as you learn more about the fantastic adventures awaiting you.

The infamous Drake Passage, named after the famous English explorer Sir Francis Drake, separates the tip of the Antarctic Peninsula from the southernmost tip of South America.

The following two days at sea will allow your Expedition Team to prepare you for what lies ahead, from Antarctica's geology to its history, wildlife, and even the ice!

Sailing towards Antarctica, the temperature falls as you cross the Antarctic Convergence and enter the waters of the Antarctic Ocean. The Antarctic Convergence is marked by an increased number of seabirds, whales, and other species attracted by the nutrient-rich waters pushed to the surface by the colder waters of the polar region flowing north and meeting the warmer equatorial waters flowing south.

Head onto the outer decks to scout for the mighty albatrosses flying overhead. Scan the waters for breaching whales and icebergs from the expansiive windows of Ocean Nova's Panorama Lounge or bridge, where we invite you to Ocean Nova's command center. Observe the expedition as it unfolds and along with the Cpatain and his team, enjoy a spectacular vantage point for spotting wildlife and witnessing your first iceberg. Keep on the lookout for the first sighting of land early evening on day four – heralding your arrival in Antarctica.

You will spend the next four incredible days exploring the South Shetland Islands and Antarctic Peninsula, a region that has captivated explorers for centuries and now enthrals travellers.

Explore the region by Zodiac, cruising among the magnificently sculpted icebergs and making shore landings where you’ll mingle with penguins, climb to vantage points to absorb the spectacular panoramic views, and maybe visit a scientific or historical base.

For those seeking extra excitement, there may be an opportunity to indulge in optional activities like an overnight ice camping experience, a snowshoeing trek through pristine landscapes, or a paddling excursion that provides a unique view of this frozen wilderness. Or you will be one of the brave few to take a polar plunge into the icy Antarctic waters!

Antarctica will enchant you with its incredible scenery, from imposing glaciers to towering snow-capped peaks, vast icebergs and ice-strewn channels. Not to mention the wildlife – from extensive colonies of chinstrap, gentoo and Adelie penguins to crabeater, Weddell, fur, and elephant seals and many fascinating birds. Look and listen for the mighty crack of a glacier calving.

Every day brings a new experience and new landing sites to explore. As you cruise from one landing site to the next, enjoy the continued lecture program and take in the scenery from the outer decks of the Ocean Nova.

A typical expedition day begins with a wake-up call from your Expedition Leader around 7.00 am, followed by breakfast with fellow travellers in the ship’s 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. Onboard the Ocean Nova, savour delicious meals crafted by our talented chefs and stay informed with daily lectures and briefings from our expert team, ensuring each moment of your adventure is enriching and unforgettable.

As the Ocean Nova sets sail back to Ushuaia, take a moment to reflect on the extraordinary journey you've just experienced.

During the final days, join additional onboard lectures and view a slideshow featuring captivating images captured by our Expedition Photographer throughout your journey—yours to keep as a cherished reminder of your incredible Antarctic expedition.

By the evening of Day 10, you’ll enter the tranquil waters of the Beagle Channel, marking the beginning of your trip home.

After breakfast, it’s time to disembark the Ocean Nova as your unforgettable Antarctic expedition ends, 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.