Explore the full range of Antarctic experiences aboard Ocean Nova, one of the most renowned expedition vessels in operation, on this voyage that begins with a crossing of the legendary Drake Passage (by sea) and ends in the comfort of a private flight (by air). Your adventure begins in Ushuaia, our planet’s southernmost city, before embarking on a journey that has set the standard for the term “life-changing.” Join us as we explore the very best of Antarctica, guided safely by your skilled and knowledgeable Expedition Leader and team. Be prepared to marvel at a variety of penguin species, as well as whales, seals, and thousands of seabirds found nowhere else in the world. Experience the jaw-dropping spectacle of Antarctica’s glaciers, icebergs, and mountain vistas. At journey’s end, you’ll take to the Antarctic skies on a private flight bound for the vibrant city of Punta Arenas, where a celebratory dinner awaits.
- Experience the legendary Drake Passage on the way south, while skipping it on your return
- Travel aboard a true expedition-style ship, Ocean Nova
- Explore the full range of Antarctica’s wonders, from abundant wildlife to radiant ice and towering mountains
- Discover geology unlike any other in the South Shetland Islands
- Complete your adventure by exploring the best of Chilean Patagonia
Availability is always subject to confirmation. Please check with us before booking flights
Prices quoted here are often dependent on currency fluctuations. Please check with (01432 507450 or info@small-cruise-ships.com) for the very latest price, which may well be cheaper than the one advertised here.
Ocean Nova
| Ice Class: | Ice 1B, E0 (Hull Ice 1A) |
|---|---|
| Cabins | 37 |
The ice-strengthened 73 metre long expedition ship Ocean Nova was built in Denmark in 1992 with high ice class to serve Greenland’s west coast. In 2004 to 2005 she was completely refurbished and has now a career as a small and comfortable expedition ship. The Ocean Nova accommodates 86 passengers in single, double and triple cabins, all with sea-view and private facilities. The double cabins have either twin beds. The triple cabins have upper and lower beds. In your cabin you will also find a desk with chair and ample storage space for clothes and equipment.
In the dining room you are treated to delicious meals in between landings and in the panorama lounge you can enjoy a drink with a breathtaking view of the surrounding polar landscape. This is where on board specialists entertain and educate you with lectures on polar biology, history, geology and conservation. There is also a library with panoramic views and a good selection of polar books. On board there is a satellite phone, gym and medical doctor. Passengers are welcome on the bridge around the clock and there is always something to see or search for from the spacious observation decks. The ship has North European officers and there is a friendly and informal atmosphere on board. Travelling with this small expedition ship offers an entirely different experience and perspective than you can get on a larger and more conventional cruise ship.
Cabins are spread over two decks and include cabins for the single traveller, double and triple cabins, all with sea-view and private facilities. The comfortable dining room located on the Upper deck seats all passengers in a single sitting and offers delicious meals with a mixture of table service and buffet. The informal dining arrangement adds to the friendly atmosphere onboard and meals are a great chance to discuss all you have seen with your fellow travellers, and for the expedition team to share their knowledge.
With one of the highest ice classes (1B) and a 2000 hp diesel engine, Ocean Nova is a small but sturdy expedition vessel just as at home in the icy waters of Svalbard as she is in a tranquil Scottish loch. The ship has a crew of 34, including North European officers, whose prime concern is your safety as well as ensuring wildlife sightings and weather conditions are maximised. For your safety there are two fully enclosed lifeboats and a medical clinic onboard.
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Deck plans are for illustrative purposes only – The actual ship and cabin layout may differ.
Includes
- Arrival transfer from airport to ship (Day 1), provided for guests arriving on our selected arrival flight to Greenland and Svalbard, please enquire for details.
- General description: Shipboard en-suite accommodation (days/nights as per itinerary) in your selected and paid category
- Waterproof Expedition jacket, yours to keep, and rubber style muck boots on loan for the duration of your expedition
- English-speaking Expedition Team
- Guided walks, nature hikes, Zodiac landings and excursions, as per itinerary, guided by our Expedition Team (excluding optional activities with cost)
- Briefings and educational lectures by the Expedition Team
- Citizen Science Program
- All meals on the ship (full board): breakfast, lunch, dinner, and snacks
- Complimentary house wine, beer, and soft drinks at dinner (selected labels and brands)
- From 2027: Complimentary house wine, beer, and soft drinks at lunch and dinner (selected labels and brands. Wine excluded at lunch)
- 24-hour access to tea, coffee, and ‘Grab and Go’ comfort food
- Welcome and Farewell Cocktail Parties
- Taxes and landing fees
- 500MB Complimentary WiFi for use on your personal device
- Digital Expedition Memento, including a curated selection of photos, videos, expedition log and map, and wildlife list
- Exclusive Suite Inclusions: Available on Ocean Albatros: Junior Suite (Cat A), Balcony Suite (Cat B), Brynhilde Suite & Freydis Suite only, and Ocean Victory: Junior Suite (Cat A), Balcony Suite (Cat B) & Freydis Suite only: Wine and fruit platter on arrival, restocked in-suite mini bar (non-alcoholic) and complimentary laundry service throughout your expedition
Excludes
- International or internal airfares unless listed in the itinerary
- Excursions and activities not mentioned in the itinerary
- Meals and beverages not listed as included
- Voluntary gratuity for the crew and Expedition Team (we recommend USD 20 per person per day)
- Personal expenses such as spa services, boutique purchases, bar, laundry, and communications unless specified
- Mandatory travel insurance (must meet mandatory minimum coverage requirements for medical treatment and evacuation)
- Visa, reciprocity, and passport fees
- Medical care or emergency evacuation
- Expedition Jacket and rubber muck-style boots outside of available sizes. Please enquire for more details.
- Life jackets for selected minors. Please enquire for more details.
- Anything not mentioned under ’Inclusions”