Best of Antarctica: Whale Discovery
Best of Antarctica: Whale Discovery
Best of Antarctica: Whale Discovery
12 Days Starting and ending in Ushuaia
Visiting: Ushuaia, Embarkation in Ushuaia, Argentina, At sea, Drake Passage, South Shetland Islands & Antarctic Peninsula, At Sea, Drake Passage, Disembarkation in Ushuaia Argentina
Tour operator:
Tour code:
GQMDJ
Guide Type:
Fully Guided
Group size:
1 - 80
Age range:
12-99
Tour operated in:
EnglishTrip Styles:
Interests:
Tour Overview
All aboard – the journey of a lifetime awaits. Set sail towards the Antarctic Peninsula, where whales gather in their largest numbers, on this 12-day expedition designed especially for wildlife-lovers and epic adventurers. Follow the migration paths of whales and spot seals, penguins and seabirds along the way. Explore the frozen wilderness from the deck of the Ocean Nova and from a fleet of up-close-and-personal Zodiacs, scanning for underwater silhouettes. Take an optional expedition by day paddle or choose to take a reinvigorating polar plunge. Among electric blue glaciers, this by-sea adventure provides the best opportunity for whale-spotting and once-in-a-lifetime exploration.
Highlights
Itinerary
Day 1: Ushuaia
Location: Ushuaia
Accommodation: Comfortable Hotel
Accommodation Name: Comfortable Hotel
Welcome to Ushuaia, the gateway to Antarctica! On arrival at Ushuaia Airport, there’ll be a transfer included to your joining hotel. This evening, you’ll have the chance to meet your fellow travellers and Expedition Team during an important welcome meeting at your hotel. Your leaders will share more about the journey ahead and provide details for tomorrow’s embarkation. If you arrive in Ushuaia early, you might like to explore downtown, where you can shop for unique souvenirs or indulge in authentic Argentinian cuisine at one of the town’s excellent local restaurants.
Day 2: Embarkation In Ushuaia, Argentina
Location: Embarkation in Ushuaia, Argentina
Accommodation: Expedition Cruise Ship
Accommodation Name: Expedition Cruise Ship
Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner
Enjoy a relaxing morning – Ushuaia is a charming, compact town with breathtaking views of the snow-capped Andes, so be sure to have your camera ready! Then, transfer to the port of Ushuaia, where you'll board the Ocean Nova, your home for the next 10 nights. Once aboard, settle into your cabin, and head to the outer decks as the Ocean Nova embarks on its journey through the historic Beagle Channel, bound for Antarctica. Later, join the excitement indoors as you learn about the incredible adventures ahead.
Included Activities:
-
Day 3-4: At Sea, Drake Passage
Location: At sea, Drake Passage
Accommodation: Expedition Cruise Ship
Accommodation Name: Expedition Cruise Ship
Embark on a two-day journey across the legendary waters of the Drake Passage, named after British seafarer Sir Francis Drake, as you head toward the Antarctic Peninsula and the South Shetland Islands. If conditions permit, take advantage of the outer deck spaces to look out for dolphins, whales, and various seabirds, including the Wandering albatross, with its impressive three-meter wingspan. The onboard lecture program will also begin, allowing you to join at your leisure as a team of polar experts provides insights into Antarctic history, geology, biology and much more. With favourable weather, you’ll reach the Islands of the Antarctic Peninsula by early evening on day four, with the first sighting of land always sparking excitement and anticipation for the next phase of your southern adventure.
Included Activities:
-
-
-
Optional Activities:
-
Day 5-9: South Shetland Islands & Antarctic Peninsula
Location: South Shetland Islands & Antarctic Peninsula
Accommodation: Expedition Cruise Ship
Accommodation Name: Expedition Cruise Ship
The Antarctic Peninsula offers incredible wildlife sightings against breathtaking backdrops of towering mountains, icy landscapes, and pristine waters. As you explore, watch for migrating whales – the peak of the migration season, from February to March, provides the best chance to witness these majestic ocean giants. You’ll also have the exciting opportunity to participate in our Citizen Science project, helping to track individual whales and their movements across the oceans. Weather permitting, you can look forward to at least two excursions each day, offering plenty of chances to immerse yourself in the stunning Antarctic landscape. For those who crave even more adventure, treat yourself to an optional paddling excursion. You’ll also be able to take a polar plunge off the Ocean Nova. There’s nothing like a quick dip in the Antarctic’s icy depths to get you going!
Included Activities:
-
-
-
-
-
Optional Activities:
-
-
-
Day 10-11: 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 Ushuaia, take this time to reflect on the incredible adventure you've experienced. You’re expected to reach the calm waters of the Beagle Channel by the evening of Day 11. Your final meal will be a memorable highlight of the expedition. Celebrate the unforgettable moments of your Antarctic adventure with your fellow travellers and Expedition Team, cherishing the connections and experiences you’ve shared!
Included Activities:
-
-
-
Optional Activities:
-
Day 12: 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 comes to an end, leaving you with memories of a truly remarkable adventure. A morning transfer to Ushuaia Airport or downtown is included.
What's Included
-
Accommodation
Comfortable hotel (1 night), Expedition cruise ship (10 nights) -
Meals
11 breakfasts, 9 lunches, 10 dinners -
Welcome Briefing
-
Citizen Science Program
-
Onboard Lecture Program
-
Daily Briefings and Recap
-
Guided walking Excursions
-
Zodiac Excursion/Cruising
What's Not Included
-
Insurance
-
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
Comfortable hotel (1 night), Expedition cruise ship (10 nights)
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 OPTIONSAn optional day paddle is a one-off excursion available on all voyages for an additional cost. Pre-book via your booking agent.
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
-
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. As there is no lift on board, you'll also need to take stairs to get to the gangway and other parts of the ship.
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. -
What policies are in place for Covid-19?
Please contact us for latest COVID-19 policies
-
How long has the tour company been trading?
Intrepid Travel has been taking travellers around the world for over 30 years
-
Will the accommodation included meet local health and safety regulations?
Yes
-
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.
-
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
Sunday - Thursday
Mar 09, 2025 - Mar 20, 2025Tuesday - Saturday
Feb 16, 2027 - Feb 27, 2027Book with Confidence
-
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.
-
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.
-
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.
-
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.
-
Terms and Conditions