Antarctic Peninsula: An Explorer's Expedition

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. The following two days at sea 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 center. Keep on the lookout for the first sighting of land early evening on day four – heralding your arrival in Antarctica.

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 kayaking 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.

Special Information
Optional activities such as kayaking, camping and snowshoeing are very dependent on weather and sea ice conditions. Your experienced Expedition Team provide regular updates on which days they are available throughout your voyage. These activities have limited spaces available and must be prebooked via your sales agent prior to travel. Payment for the prebooked activities is only required once onboard your 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.

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.