Best of Antarctica: Whale Discovery (12)

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


Antarctic Polar Circle
@ CHI

Duration: 14 days
Starts: Ushuaia, Argentina
Ends: Ushuaia, Argentina
Language: English speaking voyge

Group Transfers On Arrival, Embarkation & Disembarkation


Included
Optional


Embark on a 12-day journey designed for wildlife enthusiasts as you sail toward the Antarctic Peninsula, a prime gathering spot for whales in their largest numbers. Step into the frozen wilderness, where towering icebergs, thunderous calving glaciers, dramatic mountain ranges, and vast, ice-laden waters await your discovery.

Onboard the nimble and ice-strengthened Ocean Nova, and while exploring by Zodiac, keep an eye on the icy waters for the silhouettes of majestic whales gliding through the ice floes or breaking the silence with awe-inspiring acrobatics.

Your adventure also offers close encounters with curious penguins, lounging seals, and various fascinating seabirds, ensuring an unforgettable expedition.

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


Itinerary

@ CHI
@ CHI
@ CHI

Day 1: Arrival Day, Ushuaia, Argentina
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.

Day 2: Embark in Ushuaia, Argentina
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.

Days 3 & 4: At Sea, Drake Passage
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.

Day 5-9: South Shetland Islands & Antarctica
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!

Days 10 & 11: At Sea, Drake Passage
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.

Day 12: 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.

Itinerary

Day 1: Arrival Day, Ushuaia, Argentina
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.

Day 2: Embark in Ushuaia, Argentina
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.

Days 3 & 4: At Sea, Drake Passage
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.

Day 5-9: South Shetland Islands & Antarctica
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!

Days 10 & 11: At Sea, Drake Passage
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.

Day 12: 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.


@ CHI
@ CHI
@ CHI


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.


Dates & Rates


Ship: Ocean Nova | Date: 10 Mar 2027 - 20 Mar 2027 (3586)
Quad Cabin
$10,895
C1 - Triple Cabin
$12,115
C2 -Classic Twin
$12,115
C3 - Explorer Twin
$13,455
C4 - Explorer Double
$13,455
C5 - Comfort Twin
$14,805
C6 - Classic Single
$21,805

* The prices are per person in US Dollars, unless expressly specified in a different currency. In that case, payment will be in US dollars at the exchange rate of the day.
** Rates are correct at the time of publication. All prices will be re-confirmed by email at the time of booking.
NOTE: Embracing the unexpected is part of the legacy—and excitement—of expedition travel. When traveling in extremely remote regions, your expedition staff must allow the sea, the ice and the weather to guide route and itinerary details. This itinerary is a tentative outline of what you’ll experience on this voyage; please be aware that no specific itinerary can be guaranteed.

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