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BOAT TYPE: Expedition • PASSENGERS: 80
The Ocean Nova offers a classic Antarctic expedition experience. Designed for intimate and immersive journeys, this nimble and sturdy ship accommodates just 80 guests. Your expedition focuses on discovery, enriched by a close-knit community of fellow travellers. The Ocean Nova’s compact size allows access to remote coves, bringing you closer to Antarctica’s stunning landscapes and wildlife. Cosy cabins feature large windows for breathtaking views, while the Panoramic Lounge offers 200-degree vistas and insightful presentations from our expert Expedition Team. With one of the best guide-to-guest ratios, the Ocean Nova is perfect for those seeking an enriching Antarctic adventure.
*Destination: Antarctica, Argentina
*Meals: 10 breakfasts, 8 lunches, 9 dinners
*Transport: Expedition cruise ship, zodiac
*Accommodation: 1 night comfortable hotel, 9 nights expedition cruise ship
*Welcome Briefing
*Daily Briefings and Recap
*Onboard Lecture Program
*Citizen Science Program
*Guided walking Excursions
*Zodiac Excursion/Cruising
Your voyage is on board the Ocean Nova ship.
SPECIAL BOOKING CONDITIONS
This voyage is operated by our Polar partner Ocean Endeavour Expeditions Pty Ltd referred to as ‘Polar Latitudes’’. You are required to pay a non-refundable deposit of 20% of the full voyage cost (before any discount) per person per Cruise for your booking to be confirmed. If your booking is made within 95 days of the departure date, then the full amount is payable at the time of booking. Please refer to the “booking conditions” on our website under Antarctica Voyages (Ocean Nova).
ADVENTURE OPTIONS
An optional day paddle is a one-off excursion available on all voyages for an additional cost. Pre-book via your booking agent.
Before you book a trip with Intrepid, please take the time to read and understand what terms and conditions apply to your booking. For most of our trips, you will be booking directly with Intrepid so our Standard Booking Conditions and any applicable Special Conditions will apply.
Please note that there are three versions of the Standard Booking Conditions depending on what location you are booking from.
Welcome to Ushuaia – the gateway to Antarctica. Located at the southern tip of Argentina, these parts are known as Tierra del Fuego, often called ‘The End of the World’, but this is just the beginning of your Antarctic adventure. When you arrive at Ushuaia Airport, take your included transfer from the airport to your hotel. Those with a day or two may want to head to Tierra del Fuego National Park on a full day’s adventure, or if you’ve only got a few hours to kill, why not stroll around town and visit the waterfront overlooking the Beagle Channel. You might also like to sample some handcrafted chocolate at a local cafe in town. Tonight, you’ll have a welcome meeting at about 5 pm at your hotel, then you’re free to get ready for an early morning tomorrow!
Enjoy a leisurely morning with the backdrop of the Andes mountains and maybe go for a walk downtown before your coach transfer to the port of Ushuaia. Here, you’ll board the Ocean Nova – your home for the next nine nights. 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.
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, you can explore the outer deck spaces, scouting for dolphins, whales and various seabirds, including the iconic wandering albatross with its enormous three-meter wingspan. The comprehensive lecture program will also get underway for you to join at your leisure, with your team of polar experts sharing insights into Antarctic history, geology, biology and everything in between. If the weather is on your side, you should reach the Islands of the Antarctic Peninsula by early evening on Day 4 – the first sighting of land always builds great anticipation on any expedition south.
The Antarctic Peninsula is known for many wildlife sightings and the backdrops of mountains, icy landscapes and water 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 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 the 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 the 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 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!
Potential excursions and landing sites are determined by weather and ice conditions and cannot be guaranteed in advance. For a list of possible landing sites in Antarctica, go to intrepidtravel.com/antarctica-landing-sites.
Day Paddle is a one-time excursion. Little or no paddling experience is required; however, you must be an efficient swimmer, fit enough to enter and exit the kayak from the Zodiac, and able to manoeuvre the kayak with your paddle.
Optional activities like day paddling depend heavily on weather and sea ice conditions. Your experienced team will provide regular updates on which days they are available throughout your voyage. This activity must be pre-booked via your booking agent before travel.
As the Ocean Nova begins its journey back home to the port of Ushuaia, now is your time to reflect. You’re scheduled to reach the relatively calm waters of the Beagle Channel by the evening of Day 10, marking the beginning of your return journey. This evening, enjoy a slideshow of images taken by your Expedition Photographer during your voyage – these yours to take home as a lasting memento of your unforgettable Antarctic adventure. Your final dinner will be a highlight of your Antarctic adventurer, so live it up and enjoy it as you celebrate with your fellow travellers and Expedition Team.
After breakfast, disembark the Ocean Nova as your Antarctic expedition ends. A morning transfer to Ushuaia Airport or downtown is included, but if you’d like to extend your stay, just speak to your booking agent ahead of time.
If you’re flying out today, please book your flight to depart Ushuaia after midday in case of any delays caused by unfavourable weather conditions.
We’ve got your transfers covered! Choose between a morning transfer from the port to Ushuaia airport for your onward flight or a morning transfer from the port to Ushuaia downtown. Enjoy complimentary luggage storage for the day. If you plan to head to the airport later or to your Ushuaia accommodation, it’s entirely up to you and at your own expense.
From AUD $12,650 per person, twin share
Tell us what suits you and our Australian cruise team will take care of the rest.
Cancellation and change policies vary by cruise line and fare type. Refundable fares offer more flexibility, while non-refundable fares may incur penalties.
Yes, you can request an upgrade, and some cruise lines offer upgrade bidding programs. Availability depends on demand.
Booking early (12–18 months in advance) or during wave season (January to March) often provides the best deals and perks.
Cabin choices depend on your preferences: Interior: No windows, budget-friendly. Oceanview: Window or porthole for natural light. Balcony: Private outdoor space. Suite: Luxurious amenities and more space.
Yes, it’s recommended to book popular shore excursions early to secure a spot. Many cruise lines and third-party operators offer online bookings.
From Original price was: $14,890.00.$12,650.00Current price is: $12,650.00.
From Original price was: $14,890.00.$12,650.00Current price is: $12,650.00.
$5,695.00From$3,995.00
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