Best of Antarctica: Whale Discovery

Best of Antarctica: Whale Discovery

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12 Days From

$10895

Best of Antarctica: Whale Discovery

12 Days Starting and ending in Ushuaia, Argentina

Visiting: Ushuaia, Beagle Channel, Drake Passage, Antarctic Peninsula, South Shetland Islands

Tour operator:

Intrepid Travel

Tour code:

GQMDJ

Guide Type:

Fully Guided

Group size:

1 - 80

Physical rating:

Low

Age range:

12-99

Tour operated in:

English

Trip Styles:

Expedition Cruising

Interests:

Polar, Wildlife Tours

From: $10895 (USD)

NB: Prices correct on 23-Apr-2025 but subject to change.

This tour is no longer available, please see similar tours below or send an enquiry

Tour Overview

Embark on the "Best of Antarctica: Whale Discovery" tour, a breathtaking 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. Witness the majestic migration of humpback whales and marvel at the diverse wildlife, including penguins, seals, and albatrosses, set against a backdrop of icebergs and glaciated mountains. Participate in daily Zodiac cruises and shore excursions, and engage in the Citizen Science Program to contribute to vital research. Enjoy insightful lectures from onboard specialists, enhancing your understanding of the region's unique geology and wildlife. With cozy cabins and panoramic views, the Ocean Nova offers an enriching Antarctic experience, perfect for those seeking adventure and discovery in one of the world's most remote and stunning landscapes.

Highlights

  • Keep watch for an abundance of humpback whales as they migrate south to feed on krill.

  • Admire the breathtaking scenery and wildlife, including Gentoo and chinstrap penguins, fur seals, and albatross, set against icebergs and glaciated mountains.

  • Head out on daily Zodiac cruises and shore excursions to fully immerse yourself in the Antarctic wilderness.

  • Participate in the Citizen Science Program to contribute to vital research projects.

  • Explore the South Shetland Islands and Antarctic Peninsula, with opportunities for guided walking excursions and Zodiac cruising.

  • Experience the thrill of a polar plunge in the icy Antarctic waters.

  • Enjoy onboard lectures from specialists on topics such as the region's diverse wildlife and unique geology.

Itinerary

Expand All

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: Ushuaia, Beagle Channel

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:
-Welcome Briefing

Day 3-4: At sea, Drake Passage

Location: Drake Passage, Antarctic Peninsula, South Shetland Islands

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:
-Citizen Science Program
-Onboard Lecture Program
-Daily Briefings and Recap

Optional Activities:
-Onboard Gym - Free

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:
-Citizen Science Program
-Onboard Lecture Program
-Daily Briefings and Recap
-Guided walking Excursions
-Zodiac Excursion/Cruising

Optional Activities:
-Polar Plunge - Free
-Day Paddle
-Onboard Gym - Free

Day 10-11: At Sea, Drake Passage

Location: Drake Passage, Beagle Channel, Ushuaia

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:
-Citizen Science Program
-Onboard Lecture Program
-Daily Briefings and Recap

Optional Activities:
-Onboard Gym - Free

Day 12: Disembarkation in Ushuaia, Argentina

Location: Ushuaia

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

  • Welcome Briefing

    A welcome briefing is included to introduce you to the journey ahead.

  • Citizen Science Program

    Participate in the Citizen Science Program to contribute to vital research projects.

  • Onboard Lecture Program

    Engage in the onboard lecture program for insights into Antarctic history, geology, and biology.

show more

What's Not Included

  • Optional Day Paddle

    An optional day paddle excursion is available for an additional cost.

  • Polar Plunge

    The polar plunge is an optional activity available during the expedition.

  • Onboard Gym

    Access to the onboard gym is available as an optional activity.

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 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
  • An 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, allowing all passengers to enjoy landings simultaneously, enhancing the expedition experience with seamless access to the stunning Antarctic landscapes.

Accommodation

The Ocean Nova offers a classic Antarctic expedition experience, accommodating just 80 guests. With cosy cabins featuring large windows and a Panoramic Lounge offering 200-degree vistas, it provides an intimate journey enriched by a close-knit community and expert presentations.

Check out our Q&As

  • What kind of wildlife can I expect to see on this Antarctic tour?

    During the tour, you can expect to see a variety of wildlife including humpback whales, Gentoo and chinstrap penguins, fur seals, and albatross. The tour is designed to provide opportunities to observe these animals in their natural habitat.

  • What activities are included in the 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.

  • What is the Citizen Science Program?

    The Citizen Science Program allows participants to contribute to various vital research projects. This program is led by the expert Expedition Team and provides an opportunity to engage in scientific research during the tour.

  • What can I expect from the onboard lecture program?

    The onboard lecture program features talks from a team of polar experts who provide insights into Antarctic history, geology, biology, and more. These lectures are designed to enrich your understanding of the region and are available for you to join at your leisure.

  • What is the Ocean Nova ship like?

    The Ocean Nova is a nimble and sturdy expedition ship designed for intimate and immersive journeys. It accommodates just 80 guests, allowing access to remote coves and closer encounters with Antarctica's landscapes and wildlife. The ship features cosy cabins with large windows, a Panoramic Lounge with 200-degree vistas, and one of the best guide-to-guest ratios for an enriching Antarctic adventure.

  • Are there any optional activities available during the tour?

    Yes, there are optional activities such as a polar plunge and a day paddle excursion. These activities offer additional adventure opportunities and can be pre-booked via your booking agent.

  • 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

Maroochy Dazza (Google Reviewer)  

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24-Aug-2023

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We booked the 10 day Group Explorer package with them for Vietnam and Wow !!! . It was fantastic. We were initially a bit anxious, but that all settled after day one. There is a fair bit of travelling and moving involved, but we'll woth it as you get to see and experience loads .Our Guide Huy was brilliant and looked after us really well from local knowledge to restaurants and tour information and activities . It's worth doing folks with intrepid . Well done, keep up that standard of service.

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I have travelled with Intrepid...

03-Jun-2024

I have travelled with Intrepid a number of times now and can't recommend them enough. The trips are always exciting, full of history and immersive in the culture and environment. The office staff are great too and always happy to help with any questions you might have. Everywhere I have gone with the company has been different but the guides and itinerary have always been excellent and full of knowledge and passion for their country. Add in the social responsibility angle the company has and it top quality ethical practice and you can't go wrong

Jo Clayton (Google Reviewer)  

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15-Mar-2024

I recently went on an 11 day tour of India with Intrepid and was impressed with every aspect of the tour, the tour leader and the organisation behind the scenes. I always travel alone so it was a big deal to join a tour, I didn't want to feel less independent or ferried about. I loved being part of a group and the things we saw and did on the tour, I would never have known about or seen if I had been by myself. I loved it from start to finish. Yes the overnight trains were not easy to sleep on, but I managed. Meeting locals on board was a high light for me. English is widely spoken in India and its amazing who you strike up a chat with. I had two problems on the tour - one my own fault and one hotel related. The support from Intrepid was amazing. I cannot thank them enough for going the extra mile to support me. I recommend Intrepid 100% and have gone from thinking an organised tour is for people who don't know about Lonely Planet and can't do solo stuff, to realising its a faster, better, more fun way to get to know a country truly and deeply whilst on a bit of a budget. I will book again and again with Intrepid. I loved it that much! Big thanks to tour leader Daddy H. Devender for his help on day one, and Nick in the Oz office for his fab customer care skills. Also the person who staffed the emergency whatsapp in India - you saved my sanity helping me get there a day late! THANK YOU ALL X

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D' ARTICULATE (Google Reviewer)  

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1 Select your preferred date

Tuesday - Saturday

Feb 16, 2027 - Feb 27, 2027
$10895 (USD)

Book 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 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.

  • 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.

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