Day 1

Arrive and explore in Ushuaia
After a friendly welcome at the airport and a transfer to the luxurious Arakur Ushuaia Resort & Spa, take some time to unwind or explore the southernmost city in the world, Ushuaia. (In the unlikely event that you can't be accommodated at the Arakur, you'll unwind at another of Ushuaia's top luxury hotels.) Our optional evening briefing is your opportunity to ask questions and meet some of your fellow explorers.



Day 2

All Aboard!
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 ship staff will welcome you on board and get you settled in, followed by a safety and orientation briefing and our Captain’s welcome dinner. We’re on our way to Antarctica!

Day 3-4

Drake Passage
Join our Polar Experts as they share their vast 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.

Day 5-6

South Shetland Islands
The South Shetlands are 12 islands separated from the Antarctic Peninsula by the Bransfield Strait. Significant volcanic activity has sculpted a geology – and a diverse natural beauty – unlike anywhere else on Earth. Here, you can expect a spectacular display of mountains, glaciers, and wildlife, including Chinstrap and Gentoo penguins, and it’s not uncommon to share the water’s edge with Elephant and Fur seals. And this time of year is feeding time for Humpback whales, so don’t be surprised if you’re joined by a number of them on your day’s adventure.

Day 7-8

Antarctica (and Whales) Await
On to the Antarctic Peninsula, where we’ll explore any number of stunning bays and famed harbors, maneuvering through majestic channels as we continue to travel these wildlife-rich waters, passing a number of glorious icebergs along the way. We’ll have great opportunities to stop at several active scientific bases and historic landing sites as we direct our attention and our cameras toward numerous species of penguins, seals, and whales along the rugged coastlines and in the sea. As always throughout this journey, be on the lookout for the impressive population of Humpback, Minke, and Orca whales feeding in the water.

Day 9-10

Drake Passage
We leave this magical place and make our way north, once again crossing the legendary Drake Passage. We have one last hurrah as we celebrate the conclusion of our expedition with a special slideshow and a final meal together.


Day 11

Ushuaia Disembarkation
With huge smiles on weary, content faces, we disembark in the morning, letting you catch a flight to Buenos Aires or stay in Ushuaia for more sights and adventure.

Day 1

Arrive and explore in Ushuaia
After a friendly welcome at the airport and a transfer to the luxurious Arakur Ushuaia Resort & Spa, take some time to unwind or explore the southernmost city in the world, Ushuaia. (In the unlikely event that you can't be accommodated at the Arakur, you'll unwind at another of Ushuaia's top luxury hotels.) Our optional evening briefing is your opportunity to ask questions and meet some of your fellow explorers.

Day 2

All Aboard!
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 ship staff will welcome you on board and get you settled in, followed by a safety and orientation briefing and our Captain’s welcome dinner. We’re on our way to Antarctica!

Day 3-4

Drake Passage
Join our Polar Experts as they share their vast 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.

Day 5

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 rugged display of mountains, glaciers, and wildlife returning to their busy daily activity after the long winter break. Chinstrap and Gentoo penguins will be a common sight, and it’s not uncommon to share the water’s edge with Elephant and Fur seals. Whales are often spotted as well. So, we’ll settle into our Zodiacs and spend most of our day exploring, perhaps stopping for a walk along the black sands of Deception Island. Whether on land or sea, in a Zodiac or kayak, be prepared for a fully immersive introduction to this incomparable part of the world.

Day 6-8

Antarctica in the Spring
Welcome to Antarctica in all its just-waking-up-from-winter glory. Untouched. Pristine. Getting busy. For the next couple of days, prepare to be amazed as we observe numerous species of penguins coming ashore and getting acquainted, building nests, and tending their eggs. Marvel at the winter sea ice that mantles these frigid seas, feast your eyes on glorious icebergs beginning the springtime march, and, as always, be on the lookout for seals and whales in the water. At day’s end, take in the miraculous sunsets that are a special treat this time of year. Visits to active scientific bases and historic landing sites may also be on the agenda.

Day 9-10

Drake Passage
We leave this magical place and make our way north, once again crossing the legendary Drake Passage. We have one last hurrah as we celebrate the conclusion of our expedition with a special slideshow and a final meal together.


Day 11

Ushuaia Disembarkation
With huge smiles on weary, content faces, we disembark in the morning, letting you catch a flight to Buenos Aires or stay in Ushuaia for more sights and adventure.

Day 1

Arrive and explore in Ushuaia
After a friendly welcome at the airport and a transfer to the luxurious Arakur Ushuaia Resort & Spa, take some time to unwind or explore the southernmost city in the world, Ushuaia. (In the unlikely event that you can't be accommodated at the Arakur, you'll unwind at another of Ushuaia's top luxury hotels.) Our optional evening briefing is your opportunity to ask questions and meet some of your fellow explorers.

Day 2

All Aboard!
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 ship staff will welcome you on board and get you settled in, followed by a safety and orientation briefing and our Captain’s welcome dinner. We’re on our way to Antarctica!

Day 3-4

Drake Passage
Join our Polar Experts as they share their vast 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.

Day 5

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 rugged display of mountains, glaciers, and wildlife returning to their busy daily activity after the long winter break. Chinstrap and Gentoo penguins will be a common sight, and it’s not uncommon to share the water’s edge with Elephant and Fur seals. Whales are often spotted as well. So, we’ll settle into our Zodiacs and spend most of our day exploring, perhaps stopping for a walk along the black sands of Deception Island. Whether on land or sea, in a Zodiac or kayak, be prepared for a fully immersive introduction to this incomparable part of the world.

Day 6-7

Antarctica in the Spring
Welcome to Antarctica in all its just-waking-up-from-winter glory. Untouched. Pristine. Getting busy. For the next couple of days, prepare to be amazed as we observe numerous species of penguins coming ashore and getting acquainted, building nests, and tending their eggs. Marvel at the winter sea ice that mantles these frigid seas, feast your eyes on glorious icebergs beginning the springtime march, and, as always, be on the lookout for seals and whales in the water. At day’s end, take in the miraculous sunsets that are a special treat this time of year. Visits to active scientific bases and historic landing sites may also be on the agenda.

Day 8-9

Drake Passage
We leave this magical place and make our way north, once again crossing the legendary Drake Passage. We have one last hurrah as we celebrate the conclusion of our expedition with a special slideshow and a final meal together.


Day 10

Ushuaia Disembarkation
With huge smiles on weary, content faces, we disembark in the morning, letting you catch a flight to Buenos Aires or stay in Ushuaia for more sights and adventure.

Day 1

Arrive and explore in Ushuaia
After a friendly welcome at the airport and a transfer to the luxurious Arakur Ushuaia Resort & Spa, take some time to unwind or explore the southernmost city in the world, Ushuaia. (In the unlikely event that you can't be accommodated at the Arakur, you'll unwind at another of Ushuaia's top luxury hotels.) Our optional evening briefing is your opportunity to ask questions and meet some of your fellow explorers.



Day 2

All Aboard!
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 ship staff will welcome you on board and get you settled in, followed by a safety and orientation briefing and our Captain’s welcome dinner. We’re on our way to Antarctica!

Day 3-4

Drake Passage
Join our Polar Experts as they share their vast 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.

Day 5-6

South Shetland Islands
The South Shetlands are 12 islands separated from the Antarctic Peninsula by the Bransfield Strait. Significant volcanic activity has sculpted a geology – and a diverse natural beauty – unlike anywhere else on Earth. Here, you can expect a spectacular display of mountains, glaciers, and wildlife, including Chinstrap and Gentoo penguins, and it’s not uncommon to share the water’s edge with Elephant and Fur seals. And this time of year is feeding time for Humpback whales, so don’t be surprised if you’re joined by a number of them on your day’s adventure.

Day 7-9

Antarctica (and Whales) Await
On to the Antarctic Peninsula, where we’ll explore any number of stunning bays and famed landing sites, maneuvering through majestic channels as we continue to navigate these wildlife-rich waters, passing any number of glorious icebergs, on our way to historic landing sites and perhaps even an active scientific base. Of course, a particular highlight of this voyage is the privilege of spending an extra day in the company of the giant Humpback whale – or many of them! – feeding on the abundance of krill in the water this time of year. Orcas and Minkes are also common sightings, as are a variety of penguins and seals.


Day 10-11

Drake Passage
We leave this magical place and make our way north, once again heading across the Antarctic Convergence and the Drake Passage. We have one last hurrah as we celebrate the conclusion of our expedition with a special slideshow and a final meal together.


Day 12

Ushuaia Disembarkation
With huge smiles on weary, content faces, we disembark in the morning, letting you catch a flight to Buenos Aires or stay in Ushuaia for more sights and adventure.

Day 1

Arrive and explore in Ushuaia
After a friendly welcome at the airport and a transfer to the luxurious Arakur Ushuaia Resort & Spa, take some time to unwind or explore the southernmost city in the world, Ushuaia. (In the unlikely event that you can't be accommodated at the Arakur, you'll unwind at another of Ushuaia's top luxury hotels.) Our optional evening briefing is your opportunity to ask questions and meet some of your fellow explorers.



Day 2

All Aboard!
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 ship staff will welcome you on board and get you settled in, followed by a safety and orientation briefing and our Captain’s welcome dinner. We’re on our way to Antarctica!

Day 3-4

Drake Passage
Join our Polar Experts as they share their vast 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.

Day 5

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, and it’s not uncommon to share the water’s edge with Elephant and Fur seals. Whales are often spotted as well. So, we’ll settle into our Zodiacs and spend most of our day exploring. And kayakers, it’s time to get your first taste of gliding just inches off the pristine Antarctic water. Whether on land or sea, in Zodiac or kayak, be prepared for a fully immersive introduction to this incomparable part of the world.

Day 6-8

Glorious Antarctica
Here’s our chance to explore any number of picturesque bays and landing sites, while maneuvering through iceberg-rich channels and into wildlife-rich waters. We’ll likely be joined by numerous species of enchanting penguins, seals, and whales, both in the sea and along the rugged coastlines. And there will be great opportunities to stop at several active scientific bases and historic landing sites during our typical two-a-day outings. A night of camping under the stars is also an unforgettable highlight for those who sign up. Our focus is always on the longest and most adventurous off-ship experience, so be prepared to take in all that Antarctica has to offer.


Day 9-10

Drake Passage
We leave this magical place and make our way north, once again heading across the Antarctic Convergence and the Drake Passage. We have one last hurrah as we celebrate the conclusion of our expedition with a special slideshow and a final meal together.


Day 11

Ushuaia Disembarkation
With huge smiles on weary, content faces, we disembark in the morning, letting you catch a flight to Buenos Aires or stay in Ushuaia for more sights and adventure.

Day 1

Arrive and explore in Ushuaia
After a friendly welcome at the airport and a transfer to the luxurious Arakur Ushuaia Resort & Spa, take some time to unwind or explore the southernmost city in the world, Ushuaia. (In the unlikely event that you can't be accommodated at the Arakur, you'll unwind at another of Ushuaia's top luxury hotels.) Our optional evening briefing is your opportunity to ask questions and meet some of your fellow explorers.



Day 2

All Aboard!
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 ship staff will welcome you on board and get you settled in, followed by a safety and orientation briefing and our Captain’s welcome dinner. We’re on our way to Antarctica!

Day 3-4

Drake Passage
Join our Polar Experts as they share their vast 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.

Day 5-6

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, and it’s not uncommon to share the water’s edge with Elephant and Fur seals. Whales are often spotted as well. We’ll settle into our Zodiacs and spend most of our day exploring, taking unforgettable photographs, and planting our footsteps on the endlessly diverse landscape. With an extra day in the itinerary, a visit to the black sand beaches and rusted ruins of Deception Island is always at the top of our list.

Day 7-9

Immersive Antarctica
Welcome to Antarctica in all its awe-inspiring glory. For the next few days, we’ll explore any number of picturesque bays and famed landing sites, maneuvering through majestic channels, where glorious icebergs and an array of beguiling wildlife share the highly active waters. Prepare to be amazed as we spot numerous species of penguins, seals, and whales, both along the rugged coastline as well as in the sea. A night of camping under the stars is also an unforgettable highlight for those who sign up. There are great opportunities to stop at several active scientific bases and historic landing sites, and we plan to take full advantage of all the continent offers.


Day 10-11

Drake Passage
We leave this magical place and make our way north, once again heading across the Antarctic Convergence and the Drake Passage. We have one last hurrah as we celebrate the conclusion of our expedition with a special slideshow and a final meal together.


Day 12

Ushuaia Disembarkation
With huge smiles on weary, content faces, we disembark in the morning, letting you catch a flight to Buenos Aires or stay in Ushuaia for more sights and adventure.

Day 1

All Aboard in Longyearbyen!
Arrive in Longyearbyen, Svalbard—the northernmost town on Earth. Despite its remote Arctic location, Longyearbyen offers warm Nordic hospitality. Upon arrival, you’re greeted by crisp polar air, dramatic mountain views, and a polar bear warning sign reminding visitors of their wild new location. Your expedition ship Ocean Albatros awaits you in the harbor; toast your departure from civilization as you sail into the Arctic wilderness, on course for adventure!



Day 2

Kongsfjorden Area
During the Arctic “night,” we sail past Prins Karls Forland to the stunning Kongsfjord, framed by glaciers and the dramatic Three Crowns mountains. The first stop is Ny-Ålesund, Earth’s northernmost settlement, known for its scientific stations and historic role as a base for legendary polar explorers like Amundsen and Nansen. This remote outpost continues to support vital research amid its breathtaking surroundings.


Day 3

Expedition Northwest Spitzbergen
Northwest Svalbard, a National Park since 1973, preserves a rich history of early Arctic exploration and whaling. First visited by William Barents in 1596, the area became a hub for Dutch and English whalers, whose haunting remnants, such as the blubber ovens and graves of young sailors at Smeerenburg, remain visible. Now heavily protected, the region has been reclaimed by nature, hosting Arctic flowers, seabirds, walrus, and polar bears, making it once again a pristine wilderness and haven for wildlife.

Day 4

Expedition South Svalbard
On our final day on Svalbard, our expedition enters the greener, warmer fjords of Bellsund and Hornsund, nourished by Atlantic currents. These fertile valleys support reindeer, Arctic foxes, nesting seabirds, and drifting icebergs from nearby glaciers. Rich in wildlife and history, the area offers highlights like Alkhjornet’s bird cliffs and the historic sites of Calypsobyen and Bamsebu, making it one of Svalbard’s most diverse and captivating regions.


Day 5 & 6

At Sea, En Route to Jan Mayen
Departing Svalbard, Ocean Albatros heads southwest across the Greenland Sea towards Jan Mayen. Cold currents drifting down from the Arctic Ocean mix with the last gasp of the Gulf Stream, creating vast biological productivity. During sea days, guests can enjoy fascinating lectures, indulgent spa treatments, or simply relax and watch seabirds from the ship’s hot tubs.


Day 7

Jan Mayen
The active volcanic island of Jan Mayen is on the Mid-Atlantic Ridge, the ‘spine’ of the Atlantic Ocean. This enigmatic and isolated island is the only active volcano in Norway, and the northernmost active volcano on Earth. Jan Mayen is inhabited by only around 18 people, a mixture of scientists and Norwegian troops. The volcanic origin is visible all over with cinder cones, lava flows, and the Fuji-esque peak of Beerenberg looming above, while creeping tundra plants and squabbling seabirds eek out a living in the rugged cliffs.


Day 8

At Sea, En Route to Scoresbysund
From Jan Mayen, Ocean Albatros will sail on towards the coast of the largest island on Earth. The sea ice in East Greenland is some of the most persistent in the Arctic; even in midsummer, the coast can be icebound, creating the perfect habitat for ice-loving species such as polar bears and belugas. If we are lucky, we will catch a glimpse of this vast icy wilderness during our passage towards Scoresbysund.


Day 9

Tasermiut and Uunartoq
Tasermiut Fjord is known for its towering granite cliffs and fertile valleys. Once called Ketil’s Fjord by Norse settlers, it’s now popular with elite climbers and hikers. Later, we sail to Uunartoq Island to relax in geothermal springs with views of drifting icebergs – an experience unmatched even by Iceland’s legendary spas!


Day 9

Ittoqqortoormiit
The only settlement in this region, Ittoqqortoormiit is among the most remote communities on Earth. While the establishment of the town by Danish authorities in 1925 was challenging, residents continue a subsistence hunting lifestyle, essential when supply ships arrive only once or twice per year. Ittoqqortoormiit is a town with a strong sense of community and traditional culture, hosting an excellent museum, a beautiful traditional church, and locals often welcome visitors wearing colourful traditional costumes. Ittoqqortoormiit is the perfect introduction to the culture and lifestyle of Greenland.


Day 10

Expedition Scoresbysund
Venturing deep into the maze of fjords and islands that comprise Scoresbysund, it is easy to see why this region is spoken of with awe by even experienced explorers! The exact locations we visit in Scoresbysund will be dictated by Mother Nature – this far north, all human activity is subject to wind, sea, and ice conditions. Options include the Bjørne Islands, a labyrinth of skerries which trap vast icebergs in their rocky net, the sweeping basalt mountains of Cape Brewster, and the abandoned remains of European and Inuit settlements. Wherever we visit in the depths of Scoresbysund, adventure is guaranteed!


Day 11

Blosseville Coast
The Ocean Albatros will sail south along Greenland’s Blosseville Coast, a rugged landscape shaped by volcanic activity around 50 million years ago. First surveyed by explorer Ejnar Mikkelsen, this area has long been navigated by the Inuit. If conditions allow, we may land in this now-uninhabited region of breathtaking beauty.


Day 12

At Sea, En Route to Reykjavik, Iceland
During our time at sea approaching Reykjavik, relax and reflect on your thrilling Arctic adventure. Attend final lectures from the Expedition Team, relive your adventure at the voyage slideshow, and celebrate your voyage with new friends at the Captain’s Farewell Cocktail Party.


Day 13

Reykjavik, Iceland
Hallgrímskirkja Church towers over Reykjavik, a vibrant city known for Nordic cuisine, unique museums, and excellent shopping. Such a bustling capital may feel strange after the remote wilderness of the Arctic! After a hearty breakfast, it is time to bid a fond farewell to the Crew and Expedition Team, and descend the gangway back to dry land with memories of the voyage of a lifetime.

Day 1

Welcome to Patagonia!
Arrive in Punta Arenas, one of Earth’s southernmost cities and Chile’s gateway to Antarctica. After lunch, check into the beautifully appointed Hotel Cabo de Hornos, where our friendly ground team awaits to prepare you for your Antarctic adventure. During the afternoon, meet your fellow explorers, join your Expedition Team to be fitted for your boots and parka, biosecure your expedition gear, and learn about responsible Antarctic exploration, Zodiac landings, and tomorrow’s travel schedule – in short, everything you need to get ready for Antarctica. Afterwards, gather for your first dinner together and enjoy irresistible Patagonian delicacies in the Faro Lounge restaurant.



Day 2

All Aboard for Antarctica!
Today’s the day. After a hearty breakfast, gear up before departing for Punta Arenas airport, where your chartered aircraft awaits to whisk you across the infamous Drake Passage – waves not included. Watch from the window in awe as icebergs appear, guarding the coast of King George Island, one of Antarctica’s northernmost islands. Descend onto the gravel runway, where our Expedition Team awaits to assist you safely aboard Ocean Nova. After the mandatory safety briefing and drill, toast the start of your Antarctic voyage as Ocean Nova sets sail southward.

Day 3-5

Immersive Antarctica
Welcome to Antarctica in all its awe-inspiring glory. For the next few days, we’ll maneuver through picturesque channels, where sculpted icebergs and an array of captivating wildlife share these dynamic waters. 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 participating in our Citizen Science program, the important work of understanding and documenting this fragile environment continues. Prepare to be amazed as we encounter numerous species of penguins, seals, and whales, both along the rugged coastline and in open waters. With opportunities to visit penguin colonies and historic landing sites, we plan to take full advantage of all the White Continent has to offer.


Day 6

South Shetland Islands
Over time, volcanic activity in 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 shoreline with elephant and fur seals, while whales are often spotted offshore. We’ll settle into our Zodiacs and spend our final day in Antarctica exploring these remarkable islands.

Day 7

King George Island – Disembarkation
On the final day aboard Ocean Nova, we arrive at King George Island, Antarctica’s most populous island. After a fond farewell to the Expedition Team, crew, and officers of Ocean Nova, 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 across the Drake Passage. Upon arrival in Punta Arenas, a delectable dinner and comfortable rest await you at the beautifully appointed Hotel Cabo de Hornos.


Day 8

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 while keeping watch for wildlife, including guanacos, rhea, and Andean condors. In the evening, relax in exceptional comfort at the Hotel Cabo de Hornos or explore the vibrant city of Punta Arenas.


Day 9

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

Day 1

Welcome to Patagonia!
Arrive in Punta Arenas, one of Earth’s southernmost cities and Chile’s gateway to Antarctica. After lunch, check into the beautifully appointed Hotel Cabo de Hornos, where our friendly ground team awaits to prepare you for your Antarctic adventure. During the afternoon, meet your fellow explorers, join your Expedition Team to be fitted for your boots and parka, biosecure your expedition gear, and learn about responsible Antarctic exploration, Zodiac landings, and tomorrow’s travel schedule – in short, everything you need to get ready for Antarctica. Afterwards, gather for your first dinner together and enjoy irresistible Patagonian delicacies in the Faro Lounge restaurant.



Day 2

All Aboard for Antarctica!
Today’s the day. After a hearty breakfast, gear up before departing for Punta Arenas airport, where your chartered aircraft awaits to whisk you across the infamous Drake Passage – waves not included. Watch from the window in awe as icebergs appear, guarding the coast of King George Island, one of Antarctica’s northernmost islands. Descend onto the gravel runway, where our Expedition Team awaits to assist you safely aboard Ocean Nova. After the mandatory safety briefing and drill, toast the start of your Antarctic voyage as Ocean Nova sets sail southward.

Day 3-5

Immersive Antarctica
Welcome to Antarctica in all its awe-inspiring glory. For the next few days, we’ll maneuver through picturesque channels, where sculpted icebergs and an array of captivating wildlife share these dynamic waters. 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 participating in our Citizen Science program, the important work of understanding and documenting this fragile environment continues. Prepare to be amazed as we encounter numerous species of penguins, seals, and whales, both along the rugged coastline and in open waters. With opportunities to visit penguin colonies and historic landing sites, we plan to take full advantage of all the White Continent has to offer.


Day 6

South Shetland Islands
Over time, volcanic activity in 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 shoreline with elephant and fur seals, while whales are often spotted offshore. We’ll settle into our Zodiacs and spend our final day in Antarctica exploring these remarkable islands.

Day 7-8

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 Atlantic waters and temperatures begin to rise.


Day 9

Ushuaia, Argentina – Disembarkation
On the final day of our expedition, we arrive beneath the peaks of Ushuaia, Earth’s southernmost city and capital of Argentine Tierra del Fuego. After a hearty breakfast and a fond farewell to the Expedition Team, officers, and crew of Ocean Nova, we disembark in the morning, either to begin your journey home or continue your adventures in 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 ship staff will welcome you on board and get you settled in, followed by a safety and orientation briefing and our Captain’s welcome dinner. We’re on our way to Antarctica!

Day 3-4

Drake Passage
Join our Polar Experts as they share their vast 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.


Day 5-7

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 8

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 9

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 10

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 11

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.