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Save up to 40% on Antarctica Expedition cruises this Black Friday. Hurry, offer ends 4 December 2025!
About Chimu
Antarctica and Arctic Expedition Cruise Specialists
With over 20 years of experience, Chimu are true Polar experts. Their passionate team can help you find the perfect small ship cruise to Antarctica or the Arctic, immersive adventures that will take you off the ship and onto the ice.
Expedition cruises available in the Arctic and South America. Enquire within your nearest Phil Hoffmann Travel store, click here for more information.
Best of Antarctica: Whale Journey
Onboard Ocean Nova | 11 Days | Ushuaia return | Departs February - March 2026 & 10 March 2027
From $10,085pp Was $13,445pp
Overview
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.
Inclusions
Hotel and ship accommodation
Hotel breakfast and all onboard ship meals
Group airport to hotel transfer on arrival
Highlights
Marvel at Majestic Humpback Whales: Witness the awe-inspiring migration of these gentle giants as they journey to Antarctica to feast on krill.
Daily Zodiac Cruises & Shore Excursions: Dive into the heart of the Antarctic wilderness with at least two excursions daily, weather permitting, allowing you to fully immerse yourself in the breathtaking surroundings.
Enriching Lectures by Polar Experts: Gain invaluable insights from onboard specialists covering a range of fascinating topics, from the diverse wildlife to the unique geology of the region.
Spectacular Wildlife Encounters: Be captivated by the sight of Gentoo and Chinstrap penguins, Fur and Weddell seals, albatrosses, and more, all set against the stunning backdrop of towering icebergs and glaciated mountains.
Engage in Citizen Science Projects: Contribute to meaningful research by photographing whale flukes for Happy Whale, helping track and identify individual whales across the oceans.
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.
DAY 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 is subject to change. Advertised price is based on this cruise.
Quest for the Circle
Onboard M/V Ocean Albatros | 12 Days | Ushuaia return | Departs 28 February 2026
From $14,595pp Was $22,455pp
Overview
Traversing the Antarctic Circle, the last frontier of Earth! We leave Ushuaia, the southernmost city in Argentina, and travel south across the formidable Drake Passage. We will travel farther south from the South Shetland Islands into the Antarctic Peninsula's inlets and bays before crossing the well-known Gerlache Strait, which is home to towering peaks and glittering ice cliffs that rise straight out of the freezing ocean. This exquisitely stunning extraterrestrial terrain is characterized by icebergs, glaciers, mountains, and untamed snowfields. Our knowledgeable Captain and Expedition Leader will put out great effort to maximize the chances for White Continent exploration. We will make Zodiac landings to allow guests to set foot on land and experience penguin rookeries, breathtaking landscapes, and historical sites; however, wind, sea, and ice conditions will determine the precise locations we visit. Additionally, we aim to Zodiac cruise in scenic areas filled with enormous icebergs, whales, and seals. Our days will be spent exploring the area outside the ship, and our experienced onboard Expedition Team will be available to assist you at every turn to make the most out of your time on land, in addition to providing a variety of carefully designed lectures to improve your unparalleled expedition experience.
Inclusions
Ship accommodation
All onboard meals
Complimentary onboard house wine, beer and soft drinks with dinner
Group airport to hotel transfer on arrival and departure from downtown Ushuaia
Highlights
Tick off a true polar milestone by sailing past 66°33′ South, where few travellers have ventured and the sun barely sets.
With two extra days compared to classic itineraries, this voyage gives you maximum time on the White Continent.
Get up close to penguins, whales, seals, and towering icebergs on expert-led Zodiac landings and cruises.
Itinerary
DAY 1 | Arrival & Embarkation in Ushuaia
Arrive in Ushuaia, Argentina - the world’s southernmost city. Explore this vibrant Patagonian city or stretch your legs in the surrounding forests. Alternatively, consider a day trip off the beaten path into the raw nature of Tierra del Fuego. The island of Tierra del Fuego is a hiker's paradise with rugged snow-capped mountains, glaciers, flower-filled meadows and rich boggy wetlands. In the afternoon, we board our vessel, waiting to welcome us in port. After our mandatory safety drill, our expedition begins as we navigate through the calm waters of the famous Beagle Channel (named for Charles Darwin's ship). This steep-sided strait divides southern Tierra del Fuego between Chile and Argentina and has been the jumping-off point for thousands of expeditions into the unknown. Watch out for whales and dolphins as we sail off the edge of the map into the tempestuous Drake Passage.
DAYS 2 - 3 | Crossing the Drake Passage
As we sail through the renowned Drake Passage, linking Patagonia to the Antarctic Peninsula, brace yourself for its notoriously turbulent waters and fierce westerly winds, aptly called the Roaring Fifties. Thankfully, our purpose-built expedition vessels ensure a comfortable journey, with their uniquely stable X-Bow and powerful engines, guided by an expert crew. Embrace this exciting crossing, considered a badge of honour by seasoned sailors, as you traverse it twice during our expedition. In the Drake Passage, our focus turns to preparing for our arrival in Antarctica. Your Expedition Leader will provide thorough safety briefings and guidelines to minimise our impact on this pristine environment. Our dedicated Expedition Team will assist in biosecuring your gear while offering tailored lectures on Antarctic exploration, wildlife, and more. On the third day, we'll cross the Antarctic Convergence, marked by a sudden drop in temperature as warmer currents give way to Antarctic waters. This transition fosters a surge in marine life, promising sightings of petrels, albatrosses, and possibly even penguins, seals, and whales. Weather permitting, we aim to land on the South Shetland Islands on the afternoon of the third day of our expedition, starting our exploration of the Last Continent.
DAYS 4 - 8 | Antarctic Peninsula & Circle
In the days ahead, we venture further west along the Antarctic Peninsula into the Gerlache Strait region. This icy expanse requires meticulous planning by our Expedition Leader and Captain, who will plot a route to explore a variety of sites highlighting the area's staggering natural beauty. The Gerlache Strait, consisting of the 'spine' of the Antarctic Peninsula and a large number of mountainous glaciated islands, offers a plethora of iconic Antarctic experiences. From Zodiac cruises in Paradise Bay, to witnessing penguins nesting on Cuverville Island, each potential stop promises awe-inspiring encounters. Explore historic huts at Damoy Point, witness humpback whales in Wilhelmina Bay, and marvel at the jaw dropping scenery of the Lemaire Channel. Wherever we go on the Antarctic Peninsula, endemic wildlife, tantalising history and breathtaking natural beauty abound. During our time on the Antarctic Peninsula, we will delve southwards, seeking the Antarctic Circle. The exact timing of crossing the Circle depends on wind, sea and ice conditions, and will be determined by the Captain and Expedition Leader. However, crossing the Antarctic Circle, the ultimate bucket list tick, is the main goal of this thrilling expedition! While our exact destinations will depend on weather and ice conditions, your Expedition Leader will ensure guests are informed of our plans through nightly briefings. In the ever-changing Antarctic environment, flexibility is key as we adapt plans to suit the conditions while offering enriching onboard experiences such as lectures, recaps, wine-tasting, and spa treatments.
DAY 9 | South Shetland Islands
Our Antarctic odyssey culminates amidst the rugged beauty of the South Shetland Islands. This archipelago represents the northernmost tip of Antarctica, standing proud against the relentless force of the Southern Ocean. Despite the furious elements, the islands boast a remarkable richness of wildlife, with numerous colonies of Gentoo and Chinstrap Penguins dotting the island shores, accompanied by an array of formidable seabirds like the predatory Giant Petrels. The ice-capped peaks of Livingstone, Greenwich, and King George Islands offer a stunning backdrop to explore. Experience the eerie landscape of Deception Island, an active volcanic crater with black steaming sands and rusting ruins or witness the bustling penguin colonies on Aitcho and Half Moon Islands, or immerse yourself in the history of Yankee Harbour, once a vital anchorage for sealers. As we bid farewell to the South Shetland Islands, we carry with us memories of their stark beauty and abundant wildlife, a fitting conclusion to our extraordinary Antarctic expedition.
DAYS 10 & 11 | Crossing the Drake Passage
We eventually depart Antarctica and spend two days at sea on our way northwards back across the infamous Drake Passage towards the more welcoming shores of the Beagle Channel and Ushuaia, Argentina. During our time at sea, a variety of activities will be arranged on board to provide our guests with the chance to reflect on their voyage. Relax with an expertly crafted cocktail in the Nordic Bar in the company of new friends, soak up the knowledge and passion of our Expedition Team during lectures in the Shackleton Lounge, or simply enjoy the flight of the albatross which accompany us northwards. During your last evening onboard, join the Captain and Officers for the Farewell Cocktail Party, followed by a presentation of photos and video by our onboard photographer - the ideal opportunity to re-live your Antarctic adventure.
DAY 12 | Ushuaia Disembarkation
On the morning of the final day of our voyage, we will arrive back at the pier of Ushuaia, Argentina. Trees, grass and a busy city may seem strange to you after the white wilderness of Antarctica! After a hearty breakfast, it is time to bid a fond farewell to the Crew and Expedition Team and descend the gangway back to dry land with memories of the voyage of a lifetime.
*Itinerary is subject to change.
Penguin Safari: South Georgia & Antarctica
Onboard World Explorer | 18 Days | Ushuaia return | Departs 1 February 2026
From $30,179pp Was $50,295pp
Overview
Cruise aboard the deluxe, refined and spacious World Explorer to discover the incredible wildlife, pristine scenery and unforgettable experience of South Georgia and Antarctica.
South Georgia offers unrivalled wildlife encounters, with beaches carpeted with king and macaroni penguins and the largest king penguin rookeries in the world. Antarctica is the land of extremes, silent and desolate, where the silence is broken only by the sound of calving glaciers crashing into the clear blue waters and noisy penguin colonies alive with chinstrap, Adelie and Gentoo penguins. Zodiac excursions take you amongst the icebergs whilst shore landings bring you in close contact with the wildlife, with opportunities to explore historic sites, paddle the icy waters by kayak and maybe even take a Polar plunge!
Inclusions
Hotel & Ship accommodation
Breakfast at hotel
All meals & snacks onboard
Onboard drinks including beer, standard wines & spirits, & cocktails during pre-dinner bar service, dinner & evenings
Group transfers throughout
Highlights
Experience this incredible journey on the World Explorer the latest of polar expedition vessels.
Undertake a true expedition experience - kayak near giant icebergs, hike sparkling glaciers, sit on rocky beaches home to thousands of endemic penguin species - No experience is the same.
Itinerary
DAY 1 | Arrival in Ushuaia
You will begin your journey in Ushuaia, a small but bustling port at the tip of South America. It’s the ideal gateway for you to explore the southern extent of Patagonia while preparing for your adventure ahead. Get active in the mountains or enjoy handcrafted chocolate at a café in town.
DAY 2 | Embarkation in Ushuaia
Embarkation will occur in the late afternoon, after which your vessel will sail down the historic Beagle Channel, which transects the Tierra del Fuego archipelago in the extreme south of South America. Expect an air of anticipation as you depart!
DAYS 3 - 6 At Sea
There are many activities to keep you engaged while you are at sea. Learn to identify seabirds that glide alongside the ship, or attend dynamic presentations by your Expedition Team. You will be prepped on safety procedures for Zodiac cruises and shore landings, and also be given instructions for getting the most out of your optional sea kayaking adventures (extra cost), a truly intimate way to experience Antarctica. If conditions are right, the first indication that you are approaching South Georgia is the sight of birds around a group of rocky spires called Shag Rocks. Have your binoculars and cameras ready to capture these rocky spires rising out of the icy ocean waters. Shags and prions often rest here, and due to nutrient rich upwellings around the rocks it can be a good place to keep a lookout for whales.
DAYS 7 - 9 | South Georgia
After enjoying South Georgia from a distance, we’ll head toward its numerous beaches to find a bay for your first excursion. Landing sites are varied, largely determined by the weather conditions of your voyage. The sites you visit will provide you with wildlife encounters unrivaled anywhere else on Earth. South Georgia is one of the most fertile breeding grounds in the world for sub-Antarctic wildlife, with beaches blanketed with penguins and seals. It won’t take you long to realize that you are in a birder’s paradise, as burrowing seabirds, albatross and petrels can be seen in abundance. You’ll find that South Georgia, once a popular base for whalers and sealers, is also scattered with abandoned relics and evidence of human activity from centuries gone by. Your Expedition Team will help bring those days to life while you visit old whaling stations and enjoy presentations on the South Georgia of then and now. One of the most significant sites you will visit on the island is Grytviken. This settlement is one of the first whaling stations established in sub-Antarctic waters. Grytviken possesses a special appeal largely because it’s the site of the grave of Sir Ernest Shackleton, one of the most famous Antarctic explorers.
DAYS 10 - 11 | At Sea
Say goodbye to the king penguins as you leave for your next destination: Antarctica! Your days at sea are filled with presentations and workshops led by your Expedition Team, who will prepare you for the wildlife and landscapes that will surround you upon your arrival on the 7th Continent
*Itinerary is subject to change. Advertised savings is based on this cruise.
Booking terms and conditions apply.
*
Term and conditions apply: All pricing subject to change and availability. Advertised prices are per person twin share unless stated otherwise. Offers may be withdrawn at any time. Itineraries are subject to change. Booking Conditions and Phil Hoffmann Travel Schedule of Professionalism* applies. Please speak to your Phil Hoffmann Travel Consultant for more information.
