Best of Antarctica: In Depth | Ocean Nova

Valid for selected cabins as listed in the 'dates & prices' tab

Available until 30 May 25 unless withdrawn prior

See additional T&Cs below*

13 Days
Save Up To 15%

WAS From USD 11,695   Now From USD 9,941

STYLE: Small Ship Expedition Cruise

Trip Code: ACONAID

DIFFICULTY RATING: 2 (light adventure)

Start: Ushuaia, Argentina

Finish: Ushuaia, Argentina

SHIP: Ocean Nova

DestinationDestination

Antarctic Peninsula, Antarctica

MealsMeals

Breakfast at Hotel & All Meals Onboard the Ship

TransportTransport

Group Transfers On Arrival, Embarkation & Disembarkation

TransportAccommodation

Hotel & Cabin Onboard a Ship

DEPARTURE DATES

Season 2026-27

25 November 2026

15 December 2026



Enquire Now
map

Included SightseeingIncluded Sightseeing

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

 

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

OVERVIEW

Experience awe-inspiring scenery and untamed wildlife on this extended 13-day voyage to the Antarctic Peninsula.

This expedition offers all the highlights and marvels of Antarctica while giving you extra time to deepen your experience. You’ll enjoy more opportunities to truly immerse yourself in this icy wilderness's breathtaking landscapes and extraordinary wildlife. This journey ensures you can fully embrace the magic of Antarctica, creating memories that will last a lifetime.

Encounter Weddell seals lazing on ice floes, whales breaching the frigid waters, and several species of penguins shuffling across the frozen shores. You will cruise around the ice-filled waters by Zodiac, landing on the Antarctic Continent for onshore excursions that afford jaw-dropping views. Our nimble and ice-strengthened expedition ship, the Ocean Nova, is ideally suited to cruising this icy wilderness, and onboard expert guides offer priceless knowledge and insight, bringing the world’s most incredible landscapes to life.

ITINERARY

Arrive in Ushuaia, Argentina

Welcome to Ushuaia, the gateway to Antarctica!

Upon arrival at Ushuaia Airport, enjoy the included transfer to your hotel.

This evening, join your local team and fellow travellers for an 'icebreaker' at your hotel to learn more about the journey ahead and the details for tomorrow’s embarkation.

If you have free time before the icebreaker, consider exploring downtown Ushuaia for souvenir shopping or savouring classic Argentinian flavours at one of the city’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.

Embark in Ushuaia, Argentina

Spend your morning leisurely before your coach transfers to the port of Ushuaia, where you'll board the Ocean Nova, your home for the next 11 nights. Take advantage of the opportunity to explore downtown Ushuaia on foot - it’s compact, charming, and set against the stunning backdrop of the snow-capped Andes Mountains, so be sure to bring your camera!

Once aboard, meet your fellow travellers and Expedition Team, settle into your cabin, and head to the outer decks as the Ocean Nova journeys through the historic Beagle Channel en route to Antarctica. Later, join the excitement inside to learn more about the incredible days ahead.

At sea, Drake Passage - Day 3 & 4

Renowned for its untamed nature, the Drake Passage is ever-changing and unpredictable.

Take time to step onto one of Ocean Nova's outer decks, where you can breathe in the fresh sea air and experience the powerful winds of the roaring forties and furious fifties. Your Expedition Team will share fascinating insights into the incredible adventure that awaits you.

Over these two days at sea, enjoy gazing out at the vast Southern Ocean and capturing photos of seabirds gracefully circling the ship. Use this time to connect with your fellow travellers and get to know the Expedition Team. Visit the ship's bridge and experience our open bridge policy, where our Captain welcomes you into Ocean Nova's command center. Here, you can witness the expedition in motion while enjoying the prime vantage point for spotting wildlife and your very first iceberg. Excitement builds on board as everyone eagerly anticipates the first sighting of the land, which, with favourable sea and weather conditions, may come by early evening on day four.

South Shetland Islands & Antarctica - Day 5 to 10

Your Antarctic adventure begins once you leave the Drake Passage behind and the South Shetland Islands come into view. This region has long fascinated explorers.

Every visit to Antarctica offers something unexpected and new, ensuring your expedition is unique.

During your time aboard the Ocean Nova, your Expedition Team and Captain will constantly look for whales and seabirds, alerting you to exciting sightings as they occur. Engage with in-depth lectures from your team of onboard experts on the region’s glaciology, history, and unique wildlife as you journey through this awe-inspiring wilderness.

The highlight for many will be their first land excursion - a moment that is nothing short of unforgettable! Daily Zodiac cruises and shore excursions will take you to explore local bays, channels, and landing sites, always focusing on maximising wildlife encounters.

Visit bustling rookeries and search for seals, including the formidable leopard seal, known for its penguin-eating habits. Each day brings fresh experiences and photo opportunities, and you quickly learn to distinguish between Adelie, gentoo, and chinstrap penguins.

One day, you might hike to a penguin rookery; the next, you could find yourself cruising in a Zodiac among towering icebergs. From locking eyes with a curious humpback whale to hearing the thunderous crack of a calving glacier, you’ll wake each day eager to continue exploring this icy wonderland.

For those who crave even more adventure, treat yourself to optional activities such as an overnight camping experience on the ice, a snowshoeing trek into untouched terrain, or a paddling excursion that offers a new perspective of this frozen expanse. You’ll also have the opportunity to take a polar plunge off the Ocean Nova - a brisk dip into Antarctica’s frigid waters guaranteed to leave you feeling revitalised and energised!

A typical expedition day begins with a wake-up call from your Expedition Leader around 7.00 am, followed by breakfast with fellow travellers in the ship’s dining room. Weather permitting, you can anticipate at least two excursions daily, providing ample opportunities to take in the breathtaking Antarctic landscape.

Onboard the Ocean Nova, enjoy hearty meals prepared by skilled chefs and stay engaged with daily lectures and briefings from our expert team, ensuring every moment of your journey is enriching and unforgettable.

At sea, Drake Passage - Day 11 & 12

As the Ocean Nova begins its voyage back to Ushuaia, take this time to reflect on the remarkable journey you’ve experienced. Participate in more onboard lectures and watch 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. By the evening of Day 12, you’ll enter the relatively calm waters of the Beagle Channel, signalling the start of your return home.

That evening, savour a special farewell dinner - a true highlight of the expedition. Celebrate the incredible adventure you’ve shared with your fellow travellers and Expedition Team, creating memories to last a lifetime.

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.

DOWNLOAD ITINERARY PDF

WHY CHOOSE THIS CRUISE?

  • Explore Antarctica in Depth: This longer Peninsula itinerary will allow you to immerse yourself in the region's extraordinary landscapes, pristine ice fields, and abundant wildlife.

  • Experience Antarctica's extraordinary Wildlife: Get up close with iconic species like Adélie and gentoo penguins, Weddell and leopard seals, whales and an array of seabirds.

  • Daily Zodiac Cruises & Shore Excursions: At least two excursions daily, weather permitting, allow you to fully immerse yourself in the breathtaking surroundings of the Antarctic wilderness.

  • Enriching Lectures by Polar Experts: Onboard specialists will provide invaluable insights into various fascinating topics, from the region's diverse wildlife to its unique geology.

  •  Engage in Citizen Science Projects: Deepen your connection to this extraordinary region by contributing to meaningful research. Participate in initiatives like NASA's GLOBE Observer program, where your observations help track environmental changes, or the Seabird Survey, which gathers vital data on Antarctic bird populations.

Ocean Nova

Ocean Nova

The Ocean Nova offers a classic Antarctic expedition experience. This nimble and sturdy ship accommodates just 80 guests, with its compact size allowing access to remote bays, bringing you closer to Antarctica’s stunning landscapes. With one of the best guide-to-guest ratios, the Ocean Nova is perfect for those seeking an enriching Antarctic adventure like no other. 

 

 WHY WE LOVE THE OCEAN NOVA

  • With only 80 passengers, the Ocean Nova is one of the few ships to still offer a classic Antarctic expedition experience

  • The ship’s small size makes it more agile, allowing it to enter bays and coves that larger ships cannot

  • Thanks to efficient design and low fuel consumption, the Ocean Nova offers one of the lowest emission levels within the Antarctic cruising industry 

 

 FEATURES OF THE OCEAN NOVA 

 

Small and nimble

With a superior ice-class rating and a reinforced hull, the Ocean Nova is designed to navigate remote locations that larger vessels cannot reach. Our experienced Captain utilises extensive sonar tracking data, enabling shorter ship-to-shore Zodiac transfers and unlocking unique exploration opportunities.

Classic Antarctic expedition experience for guests 

The Ocean Nova is one of the few ships accommodating fewer than 100 guests, allowing for an intimate exploration of Antarctica aboard our purpose-built expedition ship. This means everyone can go on shore at the same time, reducing waits and maximising your time off the vessel.

Responsible travel 

The Ocean Nova boasts one of the lowest fuel emissions in the Antarctic expedition cruise industry, averaging 3.5 - 4 metric tonnes per day. Its compact size, efficient design, and low fuel consumption ensure minimal environmental impact while exploring the pristine polar regions.

Industry leading crew-to-guest ratio

With ten expert Expedition Guides for just 80 guests, the Ocean Nova offers an excellent guide-to-guest ratio in Antarctica. This ensures top-notch service and ample opportunities to engage with our expert team and make your Antarctic adventure exceptional.

Panoramic wildlife viewing

Experience breathtaking 200-degree vistas from the Panorama Lounge, the vibrant ‘heart of the Ocean Nova’. This inviting space extends to the outer decks, providing unparalleled opportunities to witness Antarctic wildlife and landscapes with fellow travellers.

Friendly and relaxed onboard atmosphere 

The intimate size of the Ocean Nova creates a warm and inviting atmosphere, perfect for fostering a spirit of adventure. Between excursions, unwind in the cosy library or lively bar, connecting with fellow guests for a genuinely convivial experience.

Immersive, hands-on science and education 

Daily lectures led by onboard polar experts cover various topics, from wildlife to geology, enriching your adventure with valuable insights and knowledge. Our Citizen Science Program is seamlessly integrated into all aspects of your expedition, ensuring you leave Antarctica with a profound understanding and appreciation of this polar wilderness.

Ice Class: Length: 73 metres (239.5 ft)
Breadth: 11.0 metres (36.1 ft)Max
Draft: Cruising
Speed:
Electricity: 200-volt outlets, standard European two-round pin plugs Passenger
Capacity:80

View Ship Details

Accommodation

We believe that appropriate accommodation should add to the authentic travel experience, as well as providing utmost enjoyment. For that reason our accommodation is scrutinised by our staff on the ground frequently, ensuring the properties adhere to our high standards. This key will help you understand the levels of accommodation available on this tour.

Standard

Comfortable properties with dependable facilities and service.

Superior

Comfortable properties with dependable facilities and service.

Deluxe

Luxurious properties with impeccable facilities and service.

Included ACTIVITIES

These are included in your cruise fare. Activities vary by itinerary and destination and are subject to regulations, weather conditions and other factors.

Zodiac Cruises

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Expert Lectures

Learn More

Shore Excursions

Learn More

Polar Plunge

Learn More

OPTIONAL ADVENTURES ADD ONS

These can be booked in advance at an extra cost. Activities vary by itinerary and destination.

Day Paddling

Learn More

Camping

Learn More

Snowshoeing

Learn More

Citizen Science

Learn More

Pricing per person

Pricing & Availability Last Updated 30 April 2025

* Please note pricing is a guide only. Contact us now for the most up to date cost.

Quad Cabin

Features-

Our Quad cabin, located on Upper Deck 3, is perfect for families or groups of friends. It features two lower single berths, two upper single berths, and two wardrobes for ample storage. The cabin is 14 sq. m (150 ft2) with an exterior location and picture window. Enjoy facilities including a writing desk with chair, private bathroom with shower, individually controlled heating system.

15 % off

USD 11,695 USD 9,941

Limited

Enquire Now
  • Quad (4 Berths)

Triple Cabin

Features-

Our spacious Triple cabin features two lower single berths and two upper single berths. Located on Upper Deck 3, these larger cabins offer two wardrobes and plenty of room to relax. The cabins are 14 sq. m (150 ft2) and have an exterior location and a picture window with unobstructed views. Enjoy facilities including a writing desk with chair, private bathroom with shower and individually controlled heating system.

15 % off

USD 12,995 USD 11,046

Available

Enquire Now
  • Triple (3 Berths)
  • Share Female (1 Berth)
  • Share Male (1 Berth)

Classic Twin

Features-

Situated on Upper Deck 3, Classic Twin cabins offer two comfortable berths - one lower single and one upper single. The Classic Twin cabin provides a cosy retreat, ideal for guests travelling together. The cabins measure 8 sq. m (87 ft2) and have an exterior location with a picture window. Enjoy facilities including a writing desk with chair and a private bathroom with shower, individually controlled heating system and wardrobe.

15 % off

USD 12,995 USD 11,046

Limited

Enquire Now
  • Twin (2 Berths)
  • Single (1 Berth)

Explorer Twin

Features-

Located on Upper Deck 3 and Bridge Deck 4, Explorer Twin Cabins are designed for two guests and feature two lower single and two upper single berths. Our mid-size cabins offer a comfortable setting for two guests. Cabins measure 10 sq. m (106 ft2) with an exterior location and picture window. Enjoy facilities including a writing desk with chair, private bathroom with shower, individually controlled heating system and wardrobe.

15 % off

USD 14,435 USD 12,270

Available

Enquire Now
  • Twin (2 Berths)
  • Single (1 Berth)
  • Share Female (1 Berth)
  • Share Male (1 Berth)

Explorer Double

Features-

Situated on Upper Deck 3, Explorer Double cabins offer a lower double bed and two upper single berths, making them ideal for couples. The cabins measure 10 sq. m (106 ft2) and have an exterior location and picture window with unobstructed views. Facilities include a writing desk with chair, private bathroom with shower, an individually controlled heating system and a wardrobe.

15 % off

USD 14,435 USD 12,270

Available

Enquire Now
  • Double (2 Berths)
  • Single (1 Berth)

Comfort Twin

Features-

This spacious cabin on Upper Deck 3 features two lower single berths and two upper single berths, making it ideal for those seeking extra space and comfort. Two wardrobes provide generous storage space for all your expedition needs. The cabin measures 14 sq. m (150 ft2) with an exterior location and a picture window from which you can enjoy unobstructed views. Facilities include a writing desk with chair, private bathroom with shower and an individually controlled heating system.

15 % off

USD 15,875 USD 13,494

Limited

Enquire Now
  • Twin (2 Berths)
  • Single (1 Berth)

Single

Features-

Single cabins on Upper Deck 3 features one lower single and one upper single berth. They are perfect for solo travellers seeking comfort and privacy. The cabins are 8 sq. m (87 ft2) with an exterior location and picture window, Enjoy facilities including a writing desk with chair and private bathroom with shower. Cabins have an individually controlled heating system and wardrobe.

15 % off

USD 23,395 USD 19,886

Limited

Enquire Now
  • Single (1 Berth)

Quad Cabin

Features-

Our Quad cabin, located on Upper Deck 3, is perfect for families or groups of friends. It features two lower single berths, two upper single berths, and two wardrobes for ample storage. The cabin is 14 sq. m (150 ft2) with an exterior location and picture window. Enjoy facilities including a writing desk with chair, private bathroom with shower, individually controlled heating system.

Sold Out

Enquire Now
  • Quad (4 Berths)

Triple Cabin

Features-

Our spacious Triple cabin features two lower single berths and two upper single berths. Located on Upper Deck 3, these larger cabins offer two wardrobes and plenty of room to relax. The cabins are 14 sq. m (150 ft2) and have an exterior location and a picture window with unobstructed views. Enjoy facilities including a writing desk with chair, private bathroom with shower and individually controlled heating system.

Sold Out

Enquire Now
  • Triple (3 Berths)
  • Share Female (1 Berth)
  • Share Male (1 Berth)

Classic Twin

Features-

Situated on Upper Deck 3, Classic Twin cabins offer two comfortable berths - one lower single and one upper single. The Classic Twin cabin provides a cosy retreat, ideal for guests travelling together. The cabins measure 8 sq. m (87 ft2) and have an exterior location with a picture window. Enjoy facilities including a writing desk with chair and a private bathroom with shower, individually controlled heating system and wardrobe.

15 % off

USD 12,995 USD 11,046

Available

Enquire Now
  • Twin (2 Berths)
  • Single (1 Berth)

Explorer Twin

Features-

Located on Upper Deck 3 and Bridge Deck 4, Explorer Twin Cabins are designed for two guests and feature two lower single and two upper single berths. Our mid-size cabins offer a comfortable setting for two guests. Cabins measure 10 sq. m (106 ft2) with an exterior location and picture window. Enjoy facilities including a writing desk with chair, private bathroom with shower, individually controlled heating system and wardrobe.

15 % off

USD 14,435 USD 12,270

Available

Enquire Now
  • Twin (2 Berths)
  • Single (1 Berth)
  • Share Female (1 Berth)
  • Share Male (1 Berth)

Explorer Double

Features-

Situated on Upper Deck 3, Explorer Double cabins offer a lower double bed and two upper single berths, making them ideal for couples. The cabins measure 10 sq. m (106 ft2) and have an exterior location and picture window with unobstructed views. Facilities include a writing desk with chair, private bathroom with shower, an individually controlled heating system and a wardrobe.

15 % off

USD 14,435 USD 12,270

Available

Enquire Now
  • Double (2 Berths)
  • Single (1 Berth)

Comfort Twin

Features-

This spacious cabin on Upper Deck 3 features two lower single berths and two upper single berths, making it ideal for those seeking extra space and comfort. Two wardrobes provide generous storage space for all your expedition needs. The cabin measures 14 sq. m (150 ft2) with an exterior location and a picture window from which you can enjoy unobstructed views. Facilities include a writing desk with chair, private bathroom with shower and an individually controlled heating system.

15 % off

USD 15,875 USD 13,494

Limited

Enquire Now
  • Twin (2 Berths)
  • Single (1 Berth)

Single

Features-

Single cabins on Upper Deck 3 features one lower single and one upper single berth. They are perfect for solo travellers seeking comfort and privacy. The cabins are 8 sq. m (87 ft2) with an exterior location and picture window, Enjoy facilities including a writing desk with chair and private bathroom with shower. Cabins have an individually controlled heating system and wardrobe.

15 % off

USD 23,395 USD 19,886

Limited

Enquire Now
  • Single (1 Berth)

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Important Information

  • * Save Up to 15% Off Selected Departures for 26/27 Season

    Valid on select departures in the 26/27 Antarctic season
    Offer applies on selected cabin categories on selected departures (as listed in the 'dates & prices' tab)
    Discount is valid until 30 May 2025 unless withdrawn, sold out or varied prior
    Not combinable with any other promotions and valid on new bookings only.

     

    Please Contact Us for the latest availability, pricing and details of your preferred voyage. Chimu Adventures are Antarctica Experts and we will endeavour to find you the perfect Antarctica expedition cruise to ensure you have an unforgettable adventure!

    NOTE: Pricing is subject to change, currency fluctuation and availability at the time of booking and may be varied without notice by us or any of the operators and partners we work with. It is only confirmed and guaranteed at the time of making a booking, agreeing to our terms and conditions and paying a deposit. 

  • Prices are based on per person, twin share* (unless otherwise stated for triple/quad cabins) 

    Prices and availability are correct at time of publishing but are subject to change at any time.  

     

    *Itinerary is subject to change depending on weather and ice conditions

  • 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 Pre Voyage Hotel (Day One)
    Pre-night (Day One) stay at the Pre Voyage hotel in Ushuaia, including breakfast (based on your cabin configuration)
    Transfer from the Pre Voyage 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 these
    Alcoholic or other selected beverages
    Laundry and communication services including Wi-fi (where available) on board
    Gratuities for the Expedition Team and crew (Recommended $15 USD per person per day)
    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.

  • 2 (light adventure)

  • Available on request. No single supplement if willing to share with other guest/s of the same gender in Triple and Explorer Twin cabin categories (subject to availability). Contact Us for more details.

    Classic Twin cabins will have a Single Supplement for Solo Use, at a rate of 1.8 x Twin rate

  • Departure Date,  Fuel Surcharges, Cabin Category, Currency Fluctuations, Seasonality & Availability.

FROM PRICE & PROMOTIONAL INFORMATION

  • From Price is based on a Quad Cabin 
  • Valid for 25 November 2026 Departures
  • Available until 30 May 25 unless withdrawn prior
  • See 'Pricing & Dates' tab for detailed departures, pricing and availability
  • Single pricing available - pricing will vary from advertised 'from price' - please enquire for more information and availability


Please Contact Us for the latest availability, pricing and details of your preferred voyage. Chimu Adventures are Antarctica Experts and we will endeavour to find you the perfect Antarctica expedition cruise to ensure you have an unforgettable adventure!

See detailed promotional T&Cs below

NOTE: Pricing is subject to change, currency fluctuation and availability at the time of booking and may be varied without notice by us or any of the operators and partners we work with. It is only confirmed and guaranteed at the time of making a booking, agreeing to our terms and conditions and paying a deposit.