Ocean Nova

Express Antarctica Air-Cruise (6 days)

The Ocean Nova was built in Denmark in 1992 and has been designed to sail challenging, icy waters effortlessly, boasting an ice-strengthened hull. She is a modern and comfortable ship and can accommodate just 68 passengers in well appointed, outside facing cabins, each with private facilities. The observation lounge is the perfect place from which to marvel at the breathtaking scenery on your expedition cruise. Other amenities include a spacious dining room, presentation room, bar and library. She comes complete with a fleet of Zodiac boats, which will transport you to the shore for wildlife watching and trekking excursions.

Info

Embark

Embark the ship in Ushuaia, Argentina.

Day 1: Ushuaia - Cape Horn

Your voyage commences in Ushuaia, Argentina. Set sail along the Beagle Channel, towards Puerto Williams, which is the southernmost town in the world, located on Navarino Island. You will have some time to explore before setting sail towards Cape Horn this evening.

Day 2: Cape Horn - Drake Passage

Wake up to a view of the legendary Cape Horn this morning, after crossing Nassau Bay. If the weather permits you will be able to travel by Zodiac to this rarely visited island. Back on board relax whilst your captain prepares to set sail towards Antarctica and start the crossing of the famous waters named after Sir Francis Drake, the legendary British explorer.

Day 3: Drake Passage

Sail through Drake Passage en route to King George Island, in the South Shetland Islands. Relax on board the Ocean Nova and observe the wildlife from the bridge or from the outside decks. Look out for albatrosses and petrels, as well as Humpback and Minke whales, swimming alongside the ship, heading for Antarctica.

Day 4: South Shetland Islands

Cross the Antarctic Convergence and sail through the Antarctic Ocean. Look out for icebergs and catch your first glimpse of Antarctic land. The South Shetland Islands will come into view and you will be able to explore by Zodiac, making your first landing to visit a penguin colony. Continue to explore your new surroundings against a backdrop of endless daylight.

Day 5: King George Island - Punta Arenas

Return to King George Island today, by Zodiac. Upon arrival at the Frei Chilean Base you will head to the airport to take your connecting flight back to Punta Arenas. This marks the end of your cruise. Upon arrival, transfer to your hotel for the night. (Note: Meals in Punta Arenas are at your leisure and not included in the program).

Day 6: Punta Arenas

After breakfast, transfer to the Punta Arenas airport for your onward flight.

Disembark

Disembark the ship at King George Island and board your flight to Punta Arenas. You will then transfer to your hotel for a one night stay before making your onward journey home.

Includes

Flight from Punta Arenas to King George Island and vice versa
Transfers from airport to hotel in Punta Arenas and vice versa
One overnight stay in Punta Arenas at Cabo de Hornos or similar on the day of the Scheduled Flight from Antarctica
Full board with wine, beer and soft drinks served with lunch and dinner on board ship
Coffee, tea, chocolate, cappuccino, water and
snacks on board ship throughout the expedition.
All guided tour excursions
Lectures and entertainment onboard
Comprehensive pre and post voyage information material
Loan of waterproof boots for landing in Antarctica
Contingency plan for air cruise departures as foreseen for each voyage.