Best of Antarctica: Pristine Wilderness
Best of Antarctica: Pristine Wilderness
Best of Antarctica: Pristine Wilderness
11 Days Starting and ending in Ushuaia
Visiting: Ushuaia, Argentina, Embarkation in Ushuaia, At Sea, Drake Passage, South Shetland Islands & Antarctic Peninsula, Disembarkation in Ushuaia Argentina
Tour operator:
Tour code:
GQMDW
Guide Type:
Fully Guided
Group size:
1 - 80
Age range:
12-99
Tour operated in:
EnglishTrip Styles:
Tour Overview
Embark on an unforgettable 11-day journey to the Antarctic Peninsula aboard the Ocean Nova. Explore during the early season, which unveils a landscape of white, raw beauty. Visit penguin rookeries that burst with life as they prepare for the season ahead – spot the Adelie, Gentoo and chinstrap penguins. From the outer decks or during Zodiac cruises, keep your eyes peeled for leopard seals resting on ice floes and the iconic albatross soaring above. Make daily excursions and on shore landings, listen to lectures from your onboard experts and learn about the wildlife and geology of the area. Engage in Citizen Science Projects and wake up every morning to the cold, vast landscape of the Great White Continent – this is Antarctica in its most unspoiled state, offering views that few are privileged to witness!
Highlights
Itinerary
Day 1: Ushuaia, Argentina
Location: Ushuaia, Argentina
Accommodation: Hotel
Accommodation Name: Hotel
Welcome to Ushuaia, the gateway to Antarctica. When you arrive at Ushuaia Airport, take the included transfer from the airport to your hotel. Tonight, you’ll meet your fellow travellers and local team at a welcome meeting at about 6 pm. You’ll learn more about the exciting journey ahead and receive important details for tomorrow’s embarkation. If you arrive early, maybe head downtown for souvenir shopping or taste some classic Argentinian flavours at one of Ushuaia's local restaurants. You could also check out the Museo Maritimo to learn about the region’s history or stroll down Avenida San Martin for any last-minute essentials before departing for Antarctica.
Day 2: Embarkation In Ushuaia
Location: Embarkation in Ushuaia
Accommodation: Expedition Cruise Ship
Accommodation Name: Expedition Cruise Ship
Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner
Enjoy your leisurely morning before your coach transfers to the port of Ushuaia, where you’ll board the Ocean Nova – your home for the next nine nights. After meeting your Expedition Team on board and settling into your cabin, head to the outer decks as the Ocean Nova sails through the historic Beagle Channel towards Antarctica. Then, join the excitement inside to learn more about the upcoming days.
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
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 will provide insights into your exciting adventure that lies ahead with talks and presentations. Watch the birds circling above as you get to know your fellow travellers 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.
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Optional Activities:
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Day 5-8: South Shetland Islands & Antarctic Peninsula
Location: South Shetland Islands & Antarctic Peninsula
Accommodation: Expedition Cruise Ship
Accommodation Name: Expedition Cruise Ship
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 will 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!
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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 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, signalling 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 will be a highlight, so live it up and enjoy yourself as you celebrate an incredible adventure with your fellow travellers and the Expedition Team.
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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 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.
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.
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. There is no lift on the Ocean Nova climbing stairs on board will be necessary.
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 energised 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
Reviews of this operator
1 Select your preferred date
Monday - Thursday
Nov 16, 2026 - Nov 26, 2026Book with Confidence
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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