Board Ocean Nova Air Cruises for a 10-day journey to the 7th Continent: Antarctica. These cruises are at the beginning and end of the season, are economically priced, and recommended for travelers on a budget that want the full Antarctic experience. Depart from Ushuaia, Argentina and cross the infamous Drake Passage on towards the white continent. Enjoy on-board lectures and presentations and search for wildlife from the ship's bridge or outside decks. Zodiac to shore each day for the opportunity to explore the Antarctic landscape with your expert Antarctic guides!
***PLEASE NOTE: This is a unique small ship cruise itinerary on the Ocean Nova vessel and is NOT an air cruise.
Highlights
Sail along ice-filled fjords and among large icebergs
Cross the infamous Drake Passage and search for marine life
Explore the Antarctic landscape with expert polar guides
Activity options vary depending on destination and operator. Activity level is determined by the range and intensity of activities you choose to participate in. Discuss with your Trip Planner which options are best for you.
Your journey begins in Ushuaia, Argentina. Ocean Nova and sail along the Beagle Channel towards Antarctica. Important note: Boarding in Ushuaia is exclusively between 15:00 hr. and 16:00 hr. At 16:00 hr. boarding will close. Please be on time. Keep your passport on hand and allow enough time to clear port security and to reach the vessel.
Sail towards Antarctica across the famous passage named in honor of Sir Francis Drake, the great 16th century British explorer. As you sail en route to the 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 albatrosses 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 the first sight of Antarctic land.
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 seabirds, penguins, seals, and whales. Each day, disembark by Zodiac boat and explore the landscape together with expert polar guides. From the ship enjoy spectacular vistas from the glass-enclosed lounge 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 can explore several spots that offer the best possible overview of the varied Antarctic environment. Your Antarctic cruise 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. Your polar adventure is very active, with several daily landings and cruises in Zodiac boats, lectures, and a very enjoyable time on board.
Return to South America with a northbound crossing of the Drake Passage. Relax and take the time to watch for wildlife from the bridge or outside decks.
Day 10: Disembark in Ushuaia
1 Breakfast
The program ends upon arrival at the port in Ushuaia.
Apologies for the inconvenience. Prices for not yet published. Below per person rate based on previous season. Contact us to confirm upcoming season pricing.
Prices for are estimated based on inflation. Contact us to confirm pricing and availability for your desired departure date.
Triple
150 sq. ft. 2 lower berths and one upper berth with private facilities and window.
Twin
Most Twin Cabins have 2 lower berths with private facilities and a window. But cabins 307, 308, 309 and 310 have fixed matrimonial bedding.
Single
87 sq. ft. 1 lower berth with private facilities and window.
Notes
- Rates are quoted in U.S. dollars and represent costs per person, double occupancy. Cabin sharing, where solo travelers are matched with a cabin mate of the same gender is available in Twin Cabins.
- Emergency medical evacuation coverage for a minimum of US$100,000 per person is required. Contact us for details on arranging travel insurance.
- Optional adventure activities are available for an additional rate. Please ask for details and availability.
Fly cruises: Children admitted from 8 years old
Classic Antarctica Air Cruise
Polar Circle
Antarctica Express
Sea voyages: Children admitted from 12 years old
Patagonia & Chilean Fjords
Falklands (Malvinas) & SG
Falklands (Malvinas), SG and Antarctica
Antarctic Small Ship Expedition
Optionals
Kayaking: Children admitted from 16 years old.
Hiking & snowshoeing: Children admitted from 12 years old.
Initial deposit is $1500 plus the adventure activities must be paid in full at the time of booking., and most travelers will call our office and pay the deposit with a credit card.
Final payment is due 130 days prior to departure by bank transfer, check or credit card. All final payments by credit card may be subject to a surcharge and maximum of $20,000 charge
For full cancellation policy details, please contact us for a quote.
Included
9 Breakfasts, 8 Lunches, 9 Dinners
9 Nights Accommodations
Accommodations as listed
Ground transportation as listed
Activities as listed
Meals as listed
Access to a 24-7 Emergency line while traveling
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
IAATO passenger fee
Loan of Waterproof Boots for Landings
Comprehensive Pre- and Post-voyage Information Materials
Lectures and entertainment onboard.
Daily buffet breakfast and lunch on board the ship offering a wide choice of dishes.
Dinner served daily on board the ship offering a choice between one of three main courses.
All guided shore excursions.
Standard internet service is provided on a complimentary basis. Guests booked in Penthouse Suites on Magellan Explorer and
Grand Veranda Suites on Magellan Discoverer enjoy complimentary premium internet service
Excluded
Gratuities
Travel Insurance
Personal Expenses
Flight costs (please request a quote)
Additional excursions during free time
Fuel and transportation surcharges (when applicable)
Passport and Applicable Visa Expenses
Beverages purchased at the bar
All participants in an Antarctica 21 expedition are required to have a travel insurance policy. A comprehensive policy is recommended but, at a minimum, Medical Evacuation coverage up to $100,000 USD is required.
Kayaking option should be booked upon reservation (10 spots available for 2024/25 season and 20 spots for the 2025/26 season)
Hiking & Snowshoeing Option (Booked and paid on board)
Beyond expectations! Then again we weren't sure what to expect. Lovely stay at the lodge, met other like-minded travelers (many had their trips planned by Adventure Life) and the owner was a gracious hostess. It felt like you were one happy family, visiting with a favorite aunt.
Adventure Life has a great team. They were very knowledgeable and responsive and helped us choose the right Arctic Expedition for us. We would recommend them.
Kbear
5 months ago
Friendly representative, ease of booking and bountiful information along the way.
Gary Brodarick
6 months ago
Erin was really helpful during the booking process! She met with me, answered all my questions and made the booking process really easy!
