Antarctica Small Ship Expedition

Day 1: Embarkation in Ushuaia

Your journey begins in Ushuaia, Argentina. Please make your own way to the port today. If you wish to have a transfer included, please let your consultant know.

Board the Ocean Nova and sail along the Beagle Channel towards Puerto Williams, Chile, the southernmost town in the world. Explore the surroundings before setting sail to Antarctica.

Day 2-3: Cross the Drake Passage

Sail towards Antarctica across the famous passage named in honour of Sir Francis Drake, the great 16th century British explorer. As you sail en-route to South Shetland Islands, attend an engaging program of lectures and presentations. In the company of expert guides, watch for wildlife from the glass-enclosed lounge or from the outside decks. You may spot magnificent sea birds such as the albatross and petrels as well as different species of whales on their way south to Antarctica. After crossing the Antarctic Convergence, the environment changes noticeably. Keep your camera ready, as this is the time to watch for the first icebergs and first sight of Antarctic land.

Days 4-7: Exploring Antarctic Peninsula

Cruise between the South Shetland Islands and the western coast of the Antarctic Peninsula, sailing along ice-filled fjords and among spectacular icebergs while enjoying the company of sea birds, penguins, seals, and whales. Each day, disembark by Zodiac boat and explore the landscape together with expert polar guides. Enjoy spectacular vistas from the glass-enclosed lounge of the ship while sharing your daily adventures with fellow guests.

No journey is the same, as flexibility is the key to success in Antarctica. The Expedition Team sets the voyage route to take advantage of the ever-changing opportunities provided by nature, crafting a unique and extraordinary experience each time. While the exact itinerary changes with each expedition, you will explore several locations that offer the best possible overview of the varied Antarctic environment. Your voyage may include visits to sites such as Paulet Island, Hope Bay, Port Lockroy, Petermann Island, Paradise Bay, Deception Island, the Lemaire Channel, or many other magnificent places. Our adventure will be very active, with several daily landings and cruises in Zodiacs, lectures, and a very enjoyable time on board. Departure from Antarctica will be in the afternoon or evening of Day 7, depending on weather conditions.

Days 8-9: Cross the Drake Passage

We invite you to relax and take the time to watch wildlife from the bridge or outside decks while enjoying lectures given by our Antarctic experts. Sailing along the Beagle Channel to Port Williams, before continuing to your final destination.

Day 10: Disembarkation in Ushuaia

Your cruise ends this morning upon arrival back in to Ushuaia port. No transfer is included today but please let your travel consultant know if you would like to book one.

• Cruise along the Antarctic Peninsula aboard the M/V Ocean Nova
• Daily buffet breakfast and lunch on board ship offering a wide choice of dishes.
• Daily served dinner on board ship offering a choice of three main courses.
• Wine, beer, juice, and soft drinks served with lunch and dinner on board ship.
• Coffee, tea, chocolate, cappuccino, water and snacks on board ship throughout the expedition.
• All guided shore excursions.
• Lectures and entertainment on board.
• Comprehensive pre- and post-voyage information material.
• Loan of waterproof boots for landing in Antarctica.
• Contingency Plan as described further on.
• IAATO passenger fee

• Accommodation, meals, excursions and transfers other than those mentioned in the itinerary
• Beverages purchased at the ship’s bar.
• Personal travel insurance.
• Extra expenses (communication, laundry, souvenirs, etc.).
• Gratuities.
• Visas for Chile, Argentina, the UK and/or other destinations included in your itinerary, passport expenses, and any arrival and/or departure tax, if applicable.

*Passport, visa and immigration fees

The itinerary of this program visits Argentinean and Chilean territories. The authorities require visitors to carry a valid passport and, depending on nationality, may require a visa. 

Optional Activities:

• Sea kayaking: US$895 per person
• Hiking & Snowshoeing - US$85 per person  

Sea Kayaking in Antarctica and Patagonia. We recommend booking the Sea Kayaking program upon reservation of your sea voyage.

Hiking & Snowshoeing. Available for booking on board the ship at $85 USD per person, per excursion.