Best of Antarctica: Wildlife Explorer

Welcome to Ushuaia, the gateway to Antarctica. Situated at the southern tip of Argentina in Tierra del Fuego, this region is often called "The End of the World," but the adventure is just beginning. Those with extra time can explore Tierra del Fuego National Park on a full-day excursion, while shorter visits allow for a stroll through town or along the Beagle Channel waterfront. Stop by a local café to sample handcrafted chocolate or browse shops for souvenirs. In the evening, attend a welcome meeting at the hotel at around 5 p.m. to meet the Expedition Team and learn more about the journey ahead. Afterward, consider heading to a local restaurant for a traditional Argentine dinner and a glass of the country’s famous red wine.

This afternoon, board the Ocean Nova and begin an epic journey south. Settle into the cabin and take in the views as the ship cruises through the scenic Beagle Channel, named after the historic vessel that carried Charles Darwin on his explorations. This waterway cuts through the Tierra del Fuego archipelago at the southernmost tip of South America, offering breathtaking landscapes along the way. As the Ocean Nova departs from port, anticipation builds—Argentina fades into the distance, and the next sight of land is the icy expanse of Antarctica.

The infamous Drake Passage, named after the famous English explorer Sir Francis Drake, separates the tip of the Antarctic Peninsula from the southernmost tip of South America. It is often rough and turbulent but sometimes as calm as a lake. It is unpredictable, so be prepared! The next two days at sea offer time to enjoy the fabulous onboard facilities. Maybe join a yoga class or attend a presentation or two given by your expedition team to prepare you for what lies ahead, from the geology of Antarctica to the history, wildlife, and even the ice!

Sailing towards Antarctica, the temperature falls as you cross the Antarctic Convergence and enter the waters of the Antarctic Ocean. The Antarctic Convergence is marked by an increased number of seabirds, whales, and other species that are attracted by the nutrient-rich waters pushed to the surface by the colder waters of the polar region flowing north and meeting the warmer equatorial waters flowing south.

Head out on one of the spacious outer decks to look out for the mighty albatrosses that fly overhead. Scan the waters for breaching whales and icebergs or gaze out from the panoramic windows of the Ocean Nova's observation deck. Keep on the lookout for the first sighting of land early evening on day four – heralding your arrival to the White Continent!

You spend the next four incredible days exploring the South Shetland Islands and Antarctic Peninsula, a region that has captivated explorers for centuries and now enthrals travellers.

Explore the region by Zodiac, cruising among the magnificently sculpted icebergs and making shore landings where you’ll mingle with penguins, climb to vantage points to absorb the spectacular panoramic views, and maybe visit a scientific or historic base. There may even be opportunities to day-paddle, snowshoe, and learn more about photography with your talented expedition photographer, capturing the moments as they unfold.

Antarctica enchants you with its incredible scenery, from imposing glaciers to towering snow-capped peaks, vast icebergs, and ice-strewn channels. Not to mention the wildlife – from extensive colonies of chinstrap, gentoo, and Adelie penguins to crabeater, Weddell, fur, and elephant seals and a plethora of fascinating birds. Look and listen for the mighty crack of a glacier calving. Maybe you are one of the brave few to take a polar plunge into the icy Antarctic waters! Every day brings a new experience and new landing sites to explore.

As you cruise from one landing site to the next, enjoy the continued lecture program and take in the scenery from the outer decks of the Ocean Nova. Make the most of the Ocean Nova's wellness facilities, from the relaxing spa and saunas to the saltwater pool and gym.

An average day on board begins with a wake-up call from your expedition leader around 7 am, giving you time to prepare for the day before joining your fellow expeditioners for breakfast in the Polaris restaurant. You usually have two excursions per day, one in the morning and one in the afternoon, with a delicious lunch served on the Ocean Nova in between excursions.

Special information
Stand-up paddle boarding, kayaking, day paddling, camping, and snowshoeing are very dependent on weather and sea ice conditions. Your experienced Expedition Team provides regular updates on which days they are available throughout your voyage. These activities have limited spaces available and must be pre-booked via your booking agent prior to travel. Snowshoeing must be booked aboard via your Expedition Team.

As you set sail back to Ushuaia, take a moment to reflect on the extraordinary journey you've just experienced. During the final days, join additional onboard lectures and view a slideshow featuring captivating images captured by your Expedition Photographer throughout your journey, which are yours to keep as a reminder of your incredible Antarctic expedition. By the evening of Day 10, you’ll enter the tranquil waters of the Beagle Channel, marking the beginning of your trip home.

After breakfast, it’s time to disembark the Ocean Nova as your unforgettable Antarctic expedition ends. You’ll have a morning transfer to Ushuaia Airport or downtown. If you’d like to extend your stay, just get in touch with your booking team ahead of time.

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