Best of Antarctica: Pristine Wilderness

Welcome to Ushuaia, the gateway to Antarctica. Upon arrival at Ushuaia Airport, take the included transfer to the hotel. In the evening, meet fellow travelers and the local team at a welcome meeting around 6 pm. This session provides key details about the journey ahead and important information for embarkation day.

For those arriving early, explore downtown Ushuaia, browse souvenir shops, or sample traditional Argentinian cuisine at a local restaurant. A visit to the Museo Marítimo offers insight into the region’s history, while a stroll along Avenida San Martín is perfect for picking up any last-minute essentials before the Antarctic adventure begins.

Spend a relaxed morning before transferring by coach to the port of Ushuaia to board the Ocean Nova, home for the next nine nights. After meeting the Expedition Team and settling into the cabin, step onto the outer decks to take in the views as the ship sails through the historic Beagle Channel toward Antarctica. Inside, join engaging sessions to learn more about the journey ahead.

Named for its wild nature, the Drake Passage is unpredictable and constantly changing. Over the next two days at sea, you can laze on one of the Ocean Nova's outer decks, soaking up fresh sea air and feeling the breeze of the untamed waters. Your Expedition Team provides insights into your exciting adventure that lies ahead with talks and presentations. Watch the birds circling above as you get to know your fellow travelers and Expedition Team. Head to the ship's bridge, where the open bridge policy invites you into the command centre, where you can see the captain and his team in action and get the best vantage point for spotting wildlife.

Your Antarctic adventure begins once you have left the Drake Passage and can see the South Shetland Islands. During your time aboard, your Expedition Team and captain scout for whales and seabirds and alert you to any new sightings. Enjoy in-depth explanations and lectures from your Expedition Team on the region's glaciology, history, and wildlife as you explore. Daily Zodiac cruises and shore excursions take you to local bays, channels, and landing sites, with wildlife opportunities always in mind. Walk on beaches dotted with penguins, visit penguin rookeries, and search for southern seal species, including the fearless leopard seal. You might hike to a penguin rookery one day and take a Zodiac cruise among towering icebergs the next. Maybe even treat yourself to an overnight ice camping experience, a snowshoeing excursion, or a day paddle excursion. You’ll also have the chance to take a polar plunge off the Ocean Nova!

Special information
Optional activities such as stand-up paddle boarding, kayaking, day paddling, camping, and snowshoeing depend heavily on weather and sea ice conditions. Your experienced Expedition Team provides regular updates on which days they are available throughout your voyage. These activities also must be prebooked with your booking agent.

As the Ocean Nova begins its journey back to your home port of Ushuaia, it is time to reflect on your journey. You’re scheduled to reach the relatively calm waters of the Beagle Channel by the evening of Day 10, signaling the end of your Antarctic adventure. During these final days at sea, attend additional onboard lectures and enjoy a slideshow of images captured by your Expedition Photographer throughout your journey – yours to keep as a memorable souvenir of your epic Antarctic adventure! Your final meal that evening is the highlight, so live it up and enjoy yourself as you celebrate an incredible adventure with your fellow travellers and the Expedition Team.

After breakfast, it’s time to disembark as your unforgettable expedition comes to an end. You’ll have a morning transfer to Ushuaia Airport or to downtown, if you have extra time. If you would like to stay longer and explore South America, just speak to your booking agent ahead of time.

Special information
If you are flying out today, please book your flight to depart Ushuaia after midday in case of any delays caused by unfavorable weather conditions.