Explore the full range of Antarctic experiences aboard Ocean Nova, one of the most renowned expedition vessels in operation, on this voyage that begins with a crossing of the legendary Drake Passage (by sea) and ends in the comfort of a private flight (by air). Your adventure begins in Ushuaia, our planet’s southernmost city, before embarking on a journey that has set the standard for the term “life-changing.” Join us as we explore the very best of Antarctica, guided safely by your skilled and knowledgeable Expedition Leader and team. Be prepared to marvel at a variety of penguin species, as well as whales, seals, and thousands of seabirds found nowhere else in the world. Experience the jaw-dropping spectacle of Antarctica’s glaciers, icebergs, and mountain vistas. At journey’s end, you’ll take to the Antarctic skies on a private flight bound for the vibrant city of Punta Arenas, where a celebratory dinner awaits.

Highlights

• Experience the legendary Drake Passage on the way south, while skipping it on your return

• Travel aboard a true expedition-style ship, Ocean Nova

• Explore the full range of Antarctica’s wonders, from abundant wildlife to radiant ice and towering mountains

• Discover geology unlike any other in the South Shetland Islands

• Complete your adventure by exploring the best of Chilean Patagonia

• Day 1: Arrive and Explore in Ushuaia

  Arrive in Ushuaia, Argentina, check in, and relax at the Hotel Albatros, located in the heart of this fascinating Patagonian city. Ushuaia is the main hub for global visitors to Antarctica, situated on the Beagle Channel at the edge of the infamous Drake Passage. Meet your fellow explorers and prepare yourself for adventure!

• Day 2: All Aboard in Ushuaia!

  Spend your morning relaxing at the hotel, visiting a museum, or exploring the shops in Ushuaia before our mid-afternoon escort to the ship. Our Expedition Team and onboard crew will welcome you as you board and get you settled in, followed by a safety and orientation briefing and the Captain’s welcome dinner. We’re on our way to Antarctica!

• Days 3–4: Drake Passage

  Join our Polar Experts as they share their extensive knowledge of Antarctica, from its enchanting wildlife to its bold history. Participate in our pioneering Citizen Science program, or sit back and take in this fabled journey while catching glimpses of rarely seen wildlife. Keep your binoculars handy to identify the many seabirds that escort our ship as we cross the Antarctic Convergence into Antarctica’s waters and noticeably cooler temperatures.

• Days 5–8: Immersive Antarctica

  It’s time to slow our ship down, allowing you to fully explore the dreamlike world around us and let the power of this extraordinary place sink in. This is your opportunity to become more intimately acquainted with Antarctica by Zodiac, kayak, snowshoe, or while spending unhurried time ashore, taking in the silence and scale of the landscape. For those engaged in our Citizen Science program, the important work of understanding and documenting this fragile environment continues. Be sure to keep your camera handy, as penguins, seals, and whale sightings are all part of this incredible experience. And a passing iceberg, towering high above, its magical blue light seeming to glow from within, is something you’ll want to share with friends back home.

• Day 9: South Shetland Islands

  Over time, the volcanic activity of the South Shetland Islands has created a geology unlike any other. Here, you can expect a spectacular display of mountains, glaciers, and wildlife, including Chinstrap and Gentoo penguins. It’s also not uncommon to share the water’s edge with elephant and fur seals, while whales are often spotted as well. We’ll settle into our Zodiacs and spend our final day exploring Antarctica.

• Day 10: King George Island – Disembarkation

  On the final day aboard Ocean Nova, we arrive at King George Island, Antarctica’s most populous island (scientists only, please). After a fond farewell to the Expedition Team, crew, and officers of Ocean Nova, you’ll disembark by Zodiac to the small Chilean station on King George Island, where your chartered aircraft awaits. Board your aircraft and watch the White Continent recede as we fly smoothly across the Drake Passage. Upon arrival in Punta Arenas, Chile, a gala dinner and comfortable rest await you at the beautifully appointed Hotel Cabo de Hornos.

• Day 11: Punta Arenas, Chilean Patagonia

  Spend the day exploring the best of Chilean Patagonia on an excursion to the famous Estancia Olga Teresa, a local ranch that embodies Patagonian hospitality. Learn about life at the bottom of the world and keep a close eye out for wildlife, including guanacos, rhea, and Andean condors. In the evening, relax in exceptional comfort back at your hotel or explore the vibrant city of Punta Arenas.

• Day 12: Punta Arenas – A Fond Farewell

  After bidding farewell to your fellow explorers, continue exploring the surroundings of Punta Arenas, head off for more adventure in Patagonia, or travel to the airport for your return journey home and a well-earned rest.

• Please note:

  Itineraries are subject to change. 

12 January, 2028 to 23 January, 2028

Classic Twin Cabin

$23,833 NZD pp

* indicative rate.

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All Staterooms Feature: Exterior views Sitting area with chairs or sofa and table Telephone Independent temperature controls Toiletries Hair dryer Bathrobe

Explorer Double Cabin

$26,482 NZD pp

* indicative rate.

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All Staterooms Feature: Exterior views Sitting area with chairs or sofa and table Telephone Independent temperature controls Toiletries Hair dryer Bathrobe

Explorer Twin Cabin

$26,482 NZD pp

* indicative rate.

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All Staterooms Feature: Exterior views Sitting area with chairs or sofa and table Telephone Independent temperature controls Toiletries Hair dryer Bathrobe

Comfort Twin Cabin

$28,777 NZD pp

* indicative rate.

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All Staterooms Feature: Exterior views Sitting area with chairs or sofa and table Telephone Independent temperature controls Toiletries Hair dryer Bathrobe

Single Cabin

$30,543 NZD pp

* indicative rate.

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All Staterooms Feature: Exterior views Sitting area with chairs or sofa and table Telephone Independent temperature controls Toiletries Hair dryer Bathrobe

Discover Kayaking $619 NZD