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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.
Highlights, Inclusions & Exclusions
Highlights
Marvel at Majestic Humpback Whales Witness the awe-inspiring migration of humpback whales as they journey south to Antarctica to feed on krill-rich waters.
Daily Zodiac Cruises & Shore Excursions Enjoy at least two guided excursions daily (weather permitting), exploring dramatic ice formations, remote landings and pristine wilderness.
Enriching Lectures by Polar Experts Learn from experienced expedition specialists through engaging onboard presentations covering wildlife, glaciology and Antarctic history.
Spectacular Wildlife Encounters Encounter Gentoo and Chinstrap penguins, Fur and Weddell seals, albatross and more—set against towering glaciers and shimmering icebergs.
Citizen Science Participation Contribute to global whale research by photographing whale flukes for the Happy Whale identification program.
Inclusions
Onboard Experience
All meals onboard Ocean Nova, including snacks and 24-hour tea and coffee
Expedition lecture program led by expert guides
Full access to the onboard gym
500MB complimentary internet usage
All port taxes
Expedition Activities
All Zodiac cruises and shore excursions (excluding optional paid adventure activities)
Complimentary use of rubber Muck boots on loan for the duration of the expedition
Pre-Cruise Stay & Transfers
Group arrival transfer from Ushuaia Airport to Albatros Hotel (Day One)
One night pre-cruise accommodation at the Albatros Hotel in Ushuaia including breakfast (based on cabin configuration)
Transfer from the Albatros Hotel to the Ocean Nova for embarkation (Day Two)
Group departure transfer from the ship to Ushuaia Airport (selected times only) or downtown Ushuaia (luggage storage available)
Expedition Gear
2026/2027 season: insulated inner jacket to keep and expedition parka on loan for the voyage
2027/2028 season onwards: outer shell expedition jacket to keep
Exclusions
Flights and Transfers
International or domestic flights unless specified
Airport transfers not listed above
Airport taxes and excess baggage charges unless specified
Documentation and Insurance
Visa and passport fees
Mandatory travel insurance with minimum required coverage
Personal Expenses
Meals other than those specified in pre-departure information
Alcoholic or selected beverages
Laundry and communication services including additional Wi-Fi beyond the complimentary allocation
Gratuities for the Expedition Team and crew
Miscellaneous extras and personal expenses
Optional Activities
Optional paid adventure activities (available on request)
Equipment Notes for Minors
Smaller-sized insulated inner jackets, expedition parkas and Muck boots may not be available for minors depending on sizing requirements
A lifejacket meeting safety standards is mandatory for minors aged 15 years and under and must be provided by a parent or guardian
Operational Conditions
A fuel surcharge may be applied to all bookings if required by the operator
Itinerary
Day 1 – Arrive Ushuaia, Argentina Welcome to Ushuaia, the gateway to Antarctica. On arrival, transfer to your hotel and attend this evening’s welcome icebreaker briefing with your Expedition Team. Enjoy free time to explore the town, browse local shops or sample Argentinian cuisine. Overnight Ushuaia
Day 2 – Embark Ocean Nova Enjoy a relaxed morning before transferring to the port to board Ocean Nova. Meet your Expedition Team and settle into your cabin before sailing through the scenic Beagle Channel towards Antarctica. Overnight onboard
Days 3–4 – Drake Passage Cross the legendary Drake Passage en route to the Antarctic Peninsula. Watch for seabirds including the wandering albatross and join informative onboard lectures covering Antarctic wildlife, history and geology. Anticipation builds as your first Antarctic land sightings approach. Overnight onboard
Days 5–8 – South Shetland Islands & Antarctic Peninsula Spend four unforgettable days exploring the Antarctic Peninsula and nearby islands. Expect spectacular scenery, towering glaciers and remarkable wildlife encounters including humpback, minke and fin whales, penguins and seals.
Enjoy at least two daily Zodiac landings (weather permitting), optional paddling experiences and even the chance to take a polar plunge. Participate in the Happy Whale citizen science project and help track whale movements across the Southern Ocean. Overnight onboard
Days 9–10 – Drake Passage Return Crossing Begin the return voyage across the Drake Passage towards South America. Reflect on your journey while enjoying lectures, wildlife spotting and a memorable farewell slideshow presentation from your Expedition Photographer. Overnight onboard
Day 11 – Disembark Ushuaia After breakfast, disembark in Ushuaia. A transfer to the airport or downtown is included. Flights departing after midday are recommended due to possible weather-related delays.
Itinerary is subject to change.
Dates/Pricing
Departs 10 March 2027
Classic Twin
Explorer Twin
Explorer Double
Comfort Twin
Price now from
Sold out!
$13,989 pp
$13,989 pp
$15,389 pp
WAS
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$17,485 pp
$17,485 pp
$19,235 pp
Departs 12 March 2028
Classic Twin
Explorer Twin
Explorer Double
Comfort Twin
Price now from
$14,049 pp
$15,609 pp
$15,609 pp
$17,165 pp
WAS
$16,520 pp
$18,360 pp
$18,360 pp
$20,195 pp
*Advertised price is per person, twin share, based on the 10 March 2027 departure. Pricing is subject to availability and currency fluctuations and may change without notice. Prices are confirmed at the time of booking once terms and conditions are accepted and a deposit is paid. Offer valid until 31 March 2026 unless sold out, withdrawn, or varied prior. Valid for new bookings only and not combinable with any other offers. Please contact us for current availability and pricing.
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.
