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Best of Antarctica: Pristine Wilderness | Ocean Nova

11 Days
From USD 10,075

STYLE: Small Ship Expedition Cruise

Trip Code: ACONBPW

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



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Included SightseeingIncluded Sightseeing

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

 

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

OVERVIEW

Embark on an unforgettable 11-day journey to the Antarctic Peninsula, where the early season unveils a landscape of untouched, raw beauty. Aboard the nimble and ice-strengthened Ocean Nova, you’ll explore this pristine wilderness as nature awakens from its icy slumber.

Snowy landscapes provide the perfect backdrop for unforgettable encounters. Penguin rookeries burst with life, as these charismatic birds court and build nests, preparing for the season ahead. with Adélie, Gentoo, and Chinstrap penguins.

From the outer decks or during Zodiac cruises, keep your eyes peeled for leopard seals resting on ice floes and majestic seabirds like the iconic wandering albatross soaring above. This is Antarctica in its most unspoiled state, offering vistas few are privileged to witness.  

November’s pristine conditions and abundant wildlife promise an Antarctic adventure like no other!

ITINERARY

Arrive in Ushuaia, Argentina

Welcome to Ushuaia, the gateway to Antarctica.

When you arrive at Ushuaia Airport, take the included transfer from the airport to your hotel.

Tonight, you’ll have the opportunity to meet your fellow travellers and our local team in Ushuaia during our 'icebreaker' at your hotel. You’ll learn more about the exciting journey ahead and receive important details for tomorrow’s embarkation.

If you have time to spare before the icebreaker, maybe head downtown for souvenir shopping or taste classic Argentinian flavours at one of Ushuaia's fantastic local restaurants. Or 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.

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 your leisurely morning before your coach transfers 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

Famed for its wild nature, the Drake Passage is unpredictable and constantly changing.

Be sure to spend some time on one of the Ocean Nova's outer decks soaking up fresh sea air and feeling the breeze of the roaring forties and furious fifties - waters not yet tamed even by the most intrepid of explorers. Your Expedition Team will provide insights into your exciting adventure that lies ahead.

During these two days on the sea, you will have plenty of time to gaze out at the Southern Ocean and capture photos of the birds circling the Ocean Nova as you get to know your fellow travellers and Expedition Team. Head to the ship's bridge, where our open bridge policy, invites you into Ocean Nova's command centre, where you can see the Captain and his team in action and get the best vantage point for spotting wildlife and your first iceberg. There is always great excitement on board when the first sighting of land appears, which, with favourable sea and weather conditions, will be early evening on day four.

South Shetland Islands & Antarctica - Day 5 to 8

Your Antarctic adventure begins once you have left the Drake Passage behind and the South Shetland Islands are visible. This region has long captured the attention of explorers.

Every visit to Antarctica reveals something unexpected or new, meaning your expedition will be unlike any other - a unique and personal experience.

During your time aboard the Ocean Nova, your Expedition Team and Captain will scout for whales and seabirds and alert you to any new sightings. Enjoy in-depth explanations and lectures from your Expedition Team on the region's glaciology, history and wildlife as you explore.

Daily Zodiac cruises and shore excursions take you to explore local bays, channels and landing sites, with wildlife opportunities always in your Expedition Team’s mind - your first land excursion will be something you will never forget!

Walk on beaches dotted with penguins, visit penguin rookeries and search for southern seal species, including the fearless penguin eater, the leopard seal.

Each day and each landing is different, but every day presents new photo opportunities and sightings, so it won’t take long until you know the difference between an Adelie, gentoo and chinstrap penguin.

You might hike to a penguin rookery one day and take a Zodiac cruise among towering icebergs the next. From coming eye to eye with a humpback whale to the sound of a calving glacier, you will wake up excited each day with a desire to explore this icy wilderness.

And if you can’t get enough and find yourself wanting more, treat yourself to an overnight ice camping experience on land, a snowshoeing excursion to explore further afield, or a hit the water for a day paddle excursion. You’ll also have the chance to take a polar plunge off the Ocean Nova - a quick dive into Antarctica’s icy waters that’s sure to leave you feeling refreshed and invigorated!

An typical expedition day begins with a wake-up call from your Expedition Leader around 7.00 am. This gives you time to prepare for the day before joining your fellow expeditioners for breakfast in the dining room.

Weather permitting, you can look forward to at least two excursions each day, offering ample opportunities to immerse yourself in the stunning Antarctic landscape. On board the Ocean Nova, you can savour delicious meals in the dining room and stay engaged in fascinating daily lectures led by our expert team.

At sea, Drake Passage - Day 9 & 10

As the Ocean Nova begins its journey back to your home port of Ushuaia, it is time to reflect on your journey. You’re scheduled to reach the relatively calm waters of the Beagle Channel by the evening of Day 10, signalling the end of your Antarctic adventure.

During these final days at sea, attend additional onboard lectures and enjoy a slideshow of images captured by our Expedition Photographer throughout your journey - yours to keep as a memorable souvenir of your epic Antarctic adventure.

Your final meal that evening will be a highlight, so live it up and enjoy yourself as you celebrate an incredible adventure with your fellow travellers and the Expedition Team.

Disembark in Ushuaia, Argentina

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.

DOWNLOAD ITINERARY PDF

WHY CHOOSE THIS CRUISE?

  • Explore Antarctica at its Most Pristine: After the harsh winter, Antarctica awakens, and extensive snow cloaks the continent in a pristine whiteness. Zodiacs cruise through ice-clogged bays and majestic channels, navigating among floating icebergs that dwarf the ship.

  • Witness Bustling penguin colonies: Penguin populations in the rookeries are thriving and the birds are busy nest-building and courting. Albatross, fulmars and petrels fly the Drake Passage and blue-eyed shags reappear in Antarctica

  • Daily Zodiac Cruises & Shore Excursions: At least two excursions daily, weather permitting, allow you to fully immerse yourself in the breathtaking surroundings of the Antarctic wilderness.

  • Enriching Lectures by Polar Experts: Onboard specialists will provide invaluable insights into various fascinating topics, from the region's diverse wildlife to its unique geology.

  • Engage in Citizen Science Projects: Deepen your connection to this extraordinary region by contributing to meaningful research. Participate in initiatives like NASA's GLOBE Observer program, where your observations help track environmental changes, or the Seabird Survey, which gathers vital data on Antarctic bird populations.

Important Information

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

    Prices and availability 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 Pre Voyage Hotel (Day One)
    Pre-night (Day One) stay at the Pre Voyage hotel in Ushuaia, including breakfast (based on your cabin configuration)
    Transfer from the Pre Voyage 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 these
    Alcoholic or other selected beverages
    Laundry and communication services including Wi-fi (where available) on board
    Gratuities for the Expedition Team and crew (Recommended $15 USD per person per day)
    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 Quad Cabin 
  • Valid for 16 November 2026 Departure
  • See 'Pricing & Dates' tab for detailed departures, pricing and availability


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.