Best of Antarctica: Wildlife Explorer
Best of Antarctica: Wildlife Explorer
11 Days Starting and ending in Ushuaia
Visiting: Ushuaia, Argentina, Embarkation in Ushuaia, At Sea, Drake Passage, South Shetland Islands & Antarctica Peninsula, Disembarkation in Ushuaia Argentina
Tour operator:
Tour code:
GQMDE
Guide Type:
Fully Guided
Group size:
1 - 80
Age range:
12-99
Tour operated in:
EnglishTrip Styles:
Interests:
Tour Overview
Enter a world of snow and ice as you take an epic journey to Antarctica – the continent that has long captivated explorers. Set sail aboard the comfortable Ocean Nova on an 11-day voyage, looking out for marine wildlife like penguins, seals and whales as well as a huge array of birdlife. Explore an icy wilderness with an expert Expedition Team, set against a backdrop of towering icebergs, snow-capped peaks, imposing glaciers and ice-strewn waters. Make daily excursions to the South Shetland Islands and the Antarctic Peninsula on Zodiacs, learning about the geology, history and wildlife of the area and be swept away by the incredible, once-on-a-lifetime panoramas. This is the Great White Continent!
Highlights
Itinerary
Day 1: Ushuaia, Argentina
Location: Ushuaia, Argentina
Accommodation: Hotel
Accommodation Name: Hotel
Welcome to Ushuaia – the gateway to Antarctica. Located at the southern tip of Argentina, these parts are known as Tierra del Fuego, often called ‘The End of the World’, but this is just the beginning of your Antarctic adventure. Those with a day or two may want to head to Tierra del Fuego National Park on a full day’s adventure, or if you've only got a few hours to kill, why not stroll around town and visit the waterfront overlooking the Beagle Channel. You might also like to sample some handcrafted chocolate at a local cafe in town. Tonight, you’ll have a welcome meeting at about 5 pm at your hotel, then maybe head for a traditional dinner at a local restaurant and sample some of Argentina’s famous red wine.
Day 2: Embarkation In Ushuaia
Location: Embarkation in Ushuaia
Accommodation: Expedition Cruise Ship
Accommodation Name: Expedition Cruise Ship
Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner
Enjoy a leisurely morning before your transfer to the port of Ushuaia, where you'll board the Ocean Nova – your home for the next nine nights. When you’re aboard, meet your Expedition Team, settle into your cabin and head to the outer decks as the Ocean Nova sets sail through the historic Beagle Channel, heading towards Antarctica. Later, join in the excitement as you learn more about the adventures awaiting you.
Included Activities:
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Day 3-4: At Sea, Drake Passage
Location: At Sea, Drake Passage
Accommodation: Expedition Cruise Ship
Accommodation Name: Expedition Cruise Ship
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. The following two days at sea will allow your Expedition Team to prepare you for what lies ahead, from Antarctica's geology to its 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 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. Look for the albatrosses flying overhead and scan the waters for breaching whales and icebergs from the expansive windows of the bridge, where you’re invited to Ocean Nova's command centre. Keep on the lookout for the first sighting of land early evening on day four – heralding your arrival in Antarctica.
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Optional Activities:
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Day 5-8: South Shetland Islands & Antarctica Peninsula
Location: South Shetland Islands & Antarctica Peninsula
Accommodation: Expedition Cruise Ship
Accommodation Name: Expedition Cruise Ship
You’ll spend the next four days exploring the South Shetland Islands and Antarctic Peninsula – a region that has captivated explorers for centuries. Explore the region by Zodiac, cruising among the sculpted icebergs and making shore landings where you’ll mingle with penguins, climb to vantage points for panoramic views and maybe visit a scientific or historical base. There may be an opportunity to indulge in optional activities like an overnight ice camping experience, a snowshoeing trek, a paddling excursion or to take a polar plunge into the icy Antarctic waters! You’ll see extensive colonies of chinstrap, gentoo and Adelie penguins as well as crabeater, Weddell, fur and elephant seals and many birds. Look and listen for the mighty crack of a glacier calving. A typical expedition day begins with a wake-up call at around 7 am, followed by breakfast. Weather permitting, you can look forward to at least two excursions each day, offering plenty of chances to immerse yourself in the Antarctic landscape.
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Optional Activities:
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Day 9-10: At Sea, Drake Passage
Location: At Sea, Drake Passage
Accommodation: Expedition Cruise Ship
Accommodation Name: Expedition Cruise Ship
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.
Included Activities:
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Optional Activities:
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Day 11: Disembarkation In Ushuaia, Argentina
Location: Disembarkation in Ushuaia, Argentina
Meals Included: Breakfast
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.
What's Included
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Accommodation
1 night comfortable hotel, 9 nights expedition cruise ship -
Meals
10 breakfasts, 8 lunches, 9 dinners -
Welcome Briefing
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Citizen Science Program
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Daily Briefings and Recap
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Onboard Lecture Program
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Guided walking Excursions
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Zodiac Excursion/Cruising
What's Not Included
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Tipping and Gratuities
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International Travel
Transport
The Ocean Endeavour has a fleet of 20 Zodiacs which means that all passengers can enjoy a landing at the same time.
Included Activities
Accommodation
1 night comfortable hotel, 9 nights expedition cruise ship
Important Information
Your voyage is on board the Ocean Nova ship.SPECIAL BOOKING CONDITIONSThis voyage is operated by our Polar partner Ocean Endeavour Expeditions Pty Ltd referred to as ‘Polar Latitudes’’. You are required to pay a non-refundable deposit of 20% of the full voyage cost (before any discount) per person per Cruise for your booking to be confirmed. If your booking is made within 95 days of the departure date, then the full amount is payable at the time of booking. Please refer to the "booking conditions" on our website under Antarctica Voyages (Ocean Nova).ADVENTURE OPTIONSA range of Paid Adventure Options is available on the Ocean Nova, on selected voyages, subject to availability. Your booking agent can assist with availability and pricing.• Day Paddle - One-off excursion available on all voyages. Pre-book via your booking agent. Additional spaces may be available to book on board via the Expedition Team• Camping - One-off excursion available on selected voyages. Pre-book via your booking agent.• Snowshoeing - One-off excursion available on selected voyages. Book on board via the Expedition Team.
Mode of Transport
The Ocean Nova has a fleet of 8 Zodiacs which means that all passengers can enjoy a landing at the same time.
Accommodation
The Ocean Nova offers a classic Antarctic expedition experience. Designed for intimate and immersive journeys, this nimble and sturdy ship accommodates just 80 guests. Your expedition focuses on discovery, enriched by a close-knit community of fellow travellers. The Ocean Nova’s compact size allows access to remote coves, bringing you closer to Antarctica’s stunning landscapes and wildlife. Cosy cabins feature large windows for breathtaking views, while the Panoramic Lounge offers 200-degree vistas and insightful presentations from our expert Expedition Team. With one of the best guide-to-guest ratios, the Ocean Nova is perfect for those seeking an enriching Antarctic adventure.
Check out our Q&As
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Is this trip right for you
The Ocean Nova is an ice-strengthened ship – large, sturdy and suited to the unpredictable Antarctic waters. Some people may experience seasickness in occasional rough seas however, we do have a doctor on board should you need assistance. Over-the-counter seasickness medication is usually an easy fix.
Temperatures in the Antarctic can get very cold, but it also can get surprisingly warm when the sun comes out. We recommend dressing in layers when you journey outside. We’ll provide you with waterproof boots on loan that are sturdy and warm, as well as an inner jacket that is yours to keep. Please see the Essential Trip Information for notes on what to pack.
Depending on the weather, you’ll be travelling around in a Zodiac boat quite regularly to explore the area and search for wildlife. It can get cold and wet on the Zodiac, so make sure you dress appropriately and keep your camera safe and dry. A fair level of mobility is needed for wet and dry landings from the boat, as well as on steep terrain, snow and other uneven surfaces. The Ocean Nova has a lift, but you’ll need to take the stairs to get to the gangway and some other parts of the ship that the lift does not provide access to.
The weather plays a pivotal part in this adventure and, although there’s an itinerary in place, there are no guarantees that you’ll be able to do everything that is planned. A level of flexibility and openness to embracing the unexpected are important in expedition travel, especially in such a remote area like the Antarctic. There are nearly 200 recognised sites in the Antarctic Peninsula and South Shetlands and the places mentioned in the itinerary may need to be changed to other locations – which are just as interesting and beautiful! We may also be confined to the ship during rough weather, but there are plenty on onboard resources and activities. The ship’s library and educational lectures are ideal ways to stay entertained, while the gym will keep you fresh for when the weather clears. -
What policies are in place for Covid-19?
Please contact us for latest COVID-19 policies
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How long has the tour company been trading?
Intrepid Travel has been taking travellers around the world for over 30 years
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Will the accommodation included meet local health and safety regulations?
Yes
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What Ethical Travel credentials does the tour company have?
Since 2002, The Intrepid Foundation has supported over 130 organisations across the world. We’re creating positive impact through the joy of travel, community and connection.
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Do you operate a “single share” option and how does it work?
Over 50% of traveller travel solo with Intrepid. You can choose to share a room with another solo travelle of the same sex for no additional charge, or choose to pay a single supplement if you’d like your own room. Please request this when booking, and we will secure you a single supplement wherever possible. Please note, if you are booking a last-minute trip, it may be harder for us to secure a single room
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Free Date Changes
Intrepid Travel allows you to make 10 free date changes, as long as the change is made at least 56 days before the start of the tour.
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Transfer as credit to Future Tours
Intrepid Travel allows you to transfer existing payments to a future tour to avoid cancellation fees if you can't travel and inform intrepid travel, 56 days before departure.
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Low Deposit
Intrepid Travel requires a minimum deposit of 400 USD per person or the full booking value, whichever is less, with the final balance not due until 56 days before departure.
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Cancellation Policy
We don't charge a cancellation fee, here is a summary of intrepid travel charges.
Up to 56 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of deposit.
At 55 days before tour starts: Forfeit 30% of booking price.
At 30 days before tour starts: Forfeit 60% of booking price.
At 14 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of booking price.
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Terms and Conditions