Best of Antarctica In Depth
Best of Antarctica In Depth
$11695
Best of Antarctica In Depth
13 Days Starting and ending in Ushuaia, Argentina
Visiting: Ushuaia, Beagle Channel, Drake Passage, South Shetland Islands, Antarctic Peninsula
Tour operator:
Tour code:
GQMAW
Guide Type:
Fully Guided
Group size:
1 - 80
Age range:
12-99
Tour operated in:
EnglishTrip Styles:
Interests:
Activities:
Tour Overview
Embark on the "Best of Antarctica In Depth" tour, a captivating journey through the icy wilderness of Antarctica and Argentina. Begin your adventure in Ushuaia, the gateway to Antarctica, before setting sail on the Ocean Nova, a nimble expedition ship designed for intimate exploration. Experience the awe-inspiring landscapes of the Antarctic Peninsula, with daily Zodiac cruises and shore excursions that bring you face-to-face with penguins, seals, and whales. Engage with onboard specialists through insightful lectures and participate in the Citizen Science Program, contributing to vital research. As you navigate the Drake Passage, enjoy the camaraderie of fellow travelers and the expertise of your Expedition Team. With opportunities for snowshoeing, camping, and even a polar plunge, this tour promises an unforgettable exploration of one of the world's most remote and breathtaking regions.
Highlights
Itinerary
Day 1: Ushuaia, Argentina
Location: Ushuaia
Accommodation: Hotel
Welcome to Ushuaia, the gateway to Antarctica! Upon arrival at Ushuaia Airport, enjoy an included transfer to your hotel. This evening, you have an important welcome meeting at your hotel to meet your Expedition Team and fellow travellers, and learn more about the journey ahead and the details for tomorrow’s embarkation. If you have free time before the meeting, consider exploring downtown Ushuaia for souvenir shopping or savouring classic Argentinian flavours at one of the city’s fantastic local restaurants.
Day 2: Embarkation in Ushuaia
Location: Ushuaia, Beagle Channel
Accommodation: Expedition Cruise Ship
Accommodation Name: Expedition Cruise Ship
Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner
Enjoy a relaxed morning. Take advantage of the opportunity to explore downtown Ushuaia on foot – it’s compact, charming and set against the stunning backdrop of the snow-capped Andes Mountains, so be sure to bring your camera! Then, take a transfer to the port of Ushuaia, where you'll board the Ocean Nova, your home for the next 11 nights. Once on board, settle into your cabin then head to the outer decks as the Ocean Nova journeys through the historic Beagle Channel on route to Antarctica. Later, join the excitement inside to learn more about the incredible days ahead.
Included Activities:
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Day 3-4: At Sea, Drake Passage
Location: Drake Passage
Accommodation: Expedition Cruise Ship
Accommodation Name: Expedition Cruise Ship
Over these two days at sea, enjoy gazing out at the vast Southern Ocean and capturing photos of seabirds gracefully circling the ship. Use this time to connect with your fellow travellers and get to know the Expedition Team. Visit the ship's bridge and experience our open bridge policy, where our Captain welcomes you into Ocean Nova's command centre. Here, you can witness the expedition in motion while enjoying the prime vantage point for spotting wildlife and your very first iceberg. Or take time to step onto one of Ocean Nova's outer decks, where you can breathe in the fresh sea air and experience the powerful winds of the roaring forties and furious fifties. Keep watch for the first sighting of land which, with favourable sea and weather conditions, may come by early evening on day four.
Included Activities:
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Optional Activities:
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Day 5-10: South Shetland Islands and Antarctic Peninsula
Location: South Shetland Islands, Antarctic Peninsula
Accommodation: Expedition Cruise Ship
Accommodation Name: Expedition Cruise Ship
Your Antarctic adventure truly begins once the South Shetland Islands come into view. Weather permitting, you can anticipate at least two excursions daily, providing ample opportunities to take in the breathtaking Antarctic landscape. One day, you might hike to a penguin rookery, the next, you could find yourself cruising in a Zodiac among towering icebergs. From locking eyes with a curious humpback whale to hearing the thunderous crack of a calving glacier, you’ll wake each day eager to continue exploring this icy wonderland. The highlight for many will be their first land excursion – a moment that is nothing short of unforgettable! There’s also the chance to engage with in-depth lectures from your team of onboard experts on the region’s glaciology, history and unique wildlife as you journey through this awe-inspiring wilderness. For those who crave even more adventure, treat yourself to optional activities such as an overnight camping experience on the ice, a snowshoeing trek or a paddling excursion. You’ll also have the opportunity to take a polar plunge off the Ocean Nova – a brisk dip into Antarctica’s frigid waters is guaranteed to leave you feeling revitalised and energised!
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Optional Activities:
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What's Included
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Welcome Briefing
A welcome briefing is included to introduce you to the expedition and your fellow travelers.
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Citizen Science Program
Participate in the Citizen Science Program, contributing to vital research projects.
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Onboard Lecture Program
Enjoy an onboard lecture program providing insights into the region's wildlife and geology.
What's Not Included
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Adventure Options
A range of paid adventure options such as day paddling, camping, and snowshoeing are available at an additional cost.
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Non-refundable Deposit
A non-refundable deposit of 20% of the full voyage cost is required to confirm your booking.
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 Cruis Ship (12 nights)
Important Information
- Your voyage is on board the Ocean Nova ship.
- SPECIAL BOOKING CONDITIONS
- This 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 OPTIONS
- A 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 is equipped with a fleet of 8 Zodiacs, ensuring all passengers can enjoy landings simultaneously, enhancing the expedition experience.Accommodation
The Ocean Nova offers a classic Antarctic expedition experience, accommodating just 80 guests. With cosy cabins featuring large windows and a Panoramic Lounge for 200-degree vistas, it provides an intimate journey. The ship's compact size allows access to remote coves, enhancing your Antarctic adventure.Check out our Q&As
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What kind of wildlife can I expect to see during the Antarctica tour?
During the tour, you can expect to see incredible wildlife such as Adelie and gentoo penguins, leopard seals, sea birds, and whales. The Expedition Team will ensure you have the best chance of multiple sightings.
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What activities are included in the Antarctica tour?
The tour includes daily Zodiac cruises and shore excursions, guided walking excursions, and participation in the Citizen Science Program. There are also onboard lectures and daily briefings to enhance your understanding of the region.
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What optional activities are available during the tour?
Optional activities include an overnight camping experience on the ice, snowshoeing treks, paddling excursions, and a polar plunge into Antarctica's frigid waters. There is also an onboard gym available for free.
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What is the accommodation like on the Ocean Nova ship?
The Ocean Nova offers a classic Antarctic expedition experience with a focus on discovery. It accommodates just 80 guests, allowing for intimate and immersive journeys. The ship's compact size allows access to remote coves, and cosy cabins feature large windows for breathtaking views. The Panoramic Lounge offers 200-degree vistas and insightful presentations from the expert Expedition Team.
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What is the Citizen Science Program mentioned in the tour?
The Citizen Science Program allows you to contribute to various vital research projects during the tour. It is led by the expert Expedition Team and provides an opportunity to engage with the scientific aspect of the Antarctic environment.
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What can I expect during the Drake Passage crossing?
During the Drake Passage crossing, you can enjoy gazing at the vast Southern Ocean and capturing photos of seabirds. You can also connect with fellow travellers, visit the ship's bridge, and participate in the Citizen Science Program and onboard lectures. The crossing offers a prime vantage point for spotting wildlife and your first iceberg.
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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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Dec 15, 2026 - Dec 27, 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 for 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