Best of Antarctica: Whale Journey

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


Antarctic Peninsula
@ CHI

Duration: 11 days
Starts: Ushuaia, Argentina
Ends: Ushuaia, Argentina
Language: English speaking voyge


Included
Optional


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.

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.

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.

Day 2: 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.

Days 3 & 4: At Sea, Drake Passage
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.

Days 5-8: South Shetland Islands & Antarctica
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!

Days 9 & 10: At Sea, Drake Passage
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.

Day 11: 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.

Itinerary

Day 1: 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.

Day 2: 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.

Days 3 & 4: At Sea, Drake Passage
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.

Days 5-8: South Shetland Islands & Antarctica
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!

Days 9 & 10: At Sea, Drake Passage
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.

Day 11: 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.


@ 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: 28 Feb 2026 - 10 Mar 2026 (3567)
C3 - Explorer Twin
$16,615
C5 - Comfort Twin
$18,270
C6 - Classic Single
$26,855
Ship: Ocean Nova | Date: 09 Mar 2026 - 19 Mar 2026 (3568)
Quad Cabin
$13,460
C1 - Triple Cabin
$14,940
C3 - Explorer Twin
$16,615
C4 - Explorer Double
$16,615
C5 - Comfort Twin
$18,270
Ship: Ocean Nova | Date: 18 Mar 2026 - 28 Mar 2026 (3569)
C1 - Triple Cabin
$13,445
C3 - Explorer Twin
$14,940
C4 - Explorer Double
$14,940
C5 - Comfort Twin
$16,420
C6 - Classic Single
$24,190
Ship: Ocean Nova | Date: 10 Mar 2027 - 20 Mar 2027 (4009)
Quad Cabin
$14,170
C1 - Triple Cabin
$15,740
C2 -Classic Twin
$15,740
C3 - Explorer Twin
$17,485
C4 - Explorer Double
$17,485
C5 - Comfort Twin
$19,235
C6 - Classic Single
$28,335
Ship: Ocean Nova | Date: 10 Mar 2027 - 20 Mar 2027 (3585)
Quad Cabin
$14,170
C1 - Triple Cabin
$15,740
C2 -Classic Twin
$15,740
C3 - Explorer Twin
$17,485
C4 - Explorer Double
$17,485
C5 - Comfort Twin
$19,235
C6 - Classic Single
$28,335

* 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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