Celebrating New Year's in Antarctica (Ocean Nova)
Experience Overview
Celebrate new year’s eve as you enter a world of snow and ice on an epic journey to Antarctica – the continent that has long captivated explorers. Set sail aboard the comfortable Ocean Nova on an 11-day voyage, looking out for marine wildlife like penguins, seals and whales as well as a huge array of birdlife. Explore an icy wilderness with an expert Expedition Team, set against a backdrop of towering icebergs, snow-capped peaks, imposing glaciers and ice-strewn waters. Make excursions to the South Shetland Islands, the Weddell Sea and the Antarctic Peninsula on Zodiacs, learning about the geology, history and wildlife of the area. Be swept away by the incredible, once-in-a-lifetime panoramas. This is the Great White Continent!
Highlights
- Celebrate New Year’s Eve in the unspoiled wilderness, exploring Antarctica’s unparalleled landscapes and unique wildlife.
- Journey through the distinctive landscape of the Weddell Sea, known for its flat-topped tabular icebergs.
- Encounter Antarctica’s wildlife, from seals and penguins to rare seabirds and orcas on the hunt – emerging from winter, the density of wildlife here is increasing.
- Enjoy Zodiac cruises through the Antarctic Sound and South Shetland Islands.
- Visit active research bases, historic landing sites and penguin rookeries – they’ll be at full capacity, with penguin chicks having started to hatch from mid-December.
Trip Details
Product Code: 2049
Tour Type: Group Tour
Accommodation: Comfortable
Transport:
Guide Language: English
Travel Styles:
Polar
Tour Operator:
Intrepid Travel
Supplier Code: GQMAC
Starts: Ushuaia, Antarctica
Finishes: Ushuaia, Antarctica
Duration: 11 days
Departures: Not Guaranteed
Physical Rating:
Light
Includes
Meals: Breakfasts (10), Lunch (8), Dinner (9)Accommodation: Comfortable hotel (1 night), Expedition cruise ship (9 nights)
Price
Price per person: (Double Occupancy) CAD $21620 ($1,965 /day)
Itinerary
Welcome to Ushuaia – the gateway to Antarctica. Located at the southern tip of Argentina, these parts are known as Tierra del Fuego, often called ‘The End of the World’, but this is just the beginning of your Antarctic adventure. Those with a day or two may want to head to Tierra del Fuego National Park on a full day’s adventure, or if you've only got a few hours to kill, why not stroll around town and visit the waterfront overlooking the Beagle Channel. You might also like to sample some handcrafted chocolate at a local cafe in town. Tonight, you’ll have a welcome meeting at about 5 pm at your hotel, then maybe head for a traditional dinner at a local restaurant and sample some of Argentina’s famous red wine.
Accommodation:
- Hotel (Number of Nights: 1)
Enjoy a leisurely morning before your transfer to the port of Ushuaia, where you'll board the Ocean Nova – your home for the next nine nights. When you’re aboard, meet your Expedition Team, settle into your cabin and head to the outer decks as the Ocean Nova sets sail through the historic Beagle Channel, heading towards Antarctica. Later, join in the excitement as you learn more about the adventures awaiting you.
Included Activities:
- Welcome Briefing
Accommodation:
- Expedition Cruise Ship (Number of Nights: 1)
The infamous Drake Passage, named after the famous English explorer Sir Francis Drake, separates the tip of the Antarctic Peninsula from the southernmost tip of South America. The following two days at sea will allow your Expedition Team to prepare you for what lies ahead, from Antarctica's geology to its history, wildlife and even the ice! Sailing towards Antarctica, the temperature falls as you cross the Antarctic Convergence and enter the waters of the Antarctic Ocean. The Antarctic Convergence is marked by an increased number of seabirds, whales and other species attracted by the nutrient-rich waters pushed to the surface by the colder waters of the polar region flowing north and meeting the warmer equatorial waters flowing south. Look for the albatrosses flying overhead and scan the waters for breaching whales and icebergs from the expansive windows of the bridge, where you’re invited to Ocean Nova's command centre. Keep on the lookout for the first sighting of land early evening on day four – heralding your arrival in Antarctica.
Included Activities:
- Citizen Science Program
- Daily Briefings and Recap
- Onboard Lecture Program
Optional Activities:
- Onboard Gym - Free
Accommodation:
- Expedition Cruise Ship (Number of Nights: 1)
Accommodation:
- Expedition Cruise Ship (Number of Nights: 1)
Wake up immersed in a world of ice and soak up one of those ‘I’m so far from home’ moments. Today, you’ll traverse the Antarctic Sound and Weddell Sea – this area is teeming with wildlife, so you’ll want to keep your binoculars and camera handy. Keep an eye out for Adelie penguins, seals and orcas. The Antarctic Sound is known for its tabular icebergs – large, flat-topped icebergs with steep sides.
Included Activities:
- Onboard Lecture Program
- Daily Briefings and Recap
- Citizen Science Program
- Guided walking Excursions
- Zodiac Excursion/Cruising
Optional Activities:
- Discover Kayaking (350 USD)
- Camping (395 USD)
- Snowshoeing (150 USD)
- Onboard Gym - Free
Accommodation:
- Expedition Cruise Ship (Number of Nights: 1)
Witness the wonders of the Antarctic wilderness as you raise a glass, saying goodbye to 2026 and hello to 2027. You’ll have the opportunity to visit some of the active scientific bases and historic landing sites. Make a toast with your fellow travellers as you celebrate your Polar adventure and welcome the new year!
Included Activities:
- Zodiac Excursion/Cruising
- Guided walking Excursions
- Daily Briefings and Recap
- Onboard Lecture Program
- Citizen Science Program
Optional Activities:
- Polar Plunge - Free
- Onboard Gym - Free
- Snowshoeing (150 USD)
- Camping (395 USD)
- Discover Kayaking (350 USD)
Accommodation:
- Expedition Cruise Ship (Number of Nights: 1)
Accommodation:
- Expedition Cruise Ship (Number of Nights: 1)
Today, you’ll observe the unique geology of the South Shetland Islands, which has been shaped by volcanic activity over time. Take in the views of the mountains and glaciers crawling with wildlife – you might encounter Chinstrap and Gentoo penguins or even see Elephant and Fur seals lazing along the water’s edge. Whale sightings are also common here! Spend the day Zodiac cruising or kayaking, immersing yourself in the pristine surrounds.
Included Activities:
- Onboard Lecture Program
- Daily Briefings and Recap
- Citizen Science Program
- Guided walking Excursions
- Zodiac Excursion/Cruising
Optional Activities:
- Discover Kayaking (350 USD)
- Camping (395 USD)
- Snowshoeing (150 USD)
- Onboard Gym - Free
Accommodation:
- Expedition Cruise Ship (Number of Nights: 1)
As you set sail back to Ushuaia, take a moment to reflect on the extraordinary journey you've just experienced. During the final days, join additional onboard lectures and view a slideshow featuring captivating images captured by your Expedition Photographer throughout your journey, which are yours to keep as a reminder of your incredible Antarctic expedition. By the evening of Day 10, you’ll enter the tranquil waters of the Beagle Channel, marking the beginning of your trip home.
Included Activities:
- Onboard Lecture Program
- Daily Briefings and Recap
- Citizen Science Program
Optional Activities:
- Onboard Gym - Free
Accommodation:
- Expedition Cruise Ship (Number of Nights: 1)
Accommodation:
- Expedition Cruise Ship (Number of Nights: 1)
After breakfast, it’s time to disembark the Ocean Nova as your unforgettable Antarctic expedition ends. You’ll have a morning transfer to Ushuaia Airport or downtown. If you’d like to extend your stay, just get in touch with your booking team ahead of time.
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Tour Operator
Intrepid Travel
Intrepid Travel is a global adventure travel company, dedicated to providing sustainable, experience-rich travel opportunities. They’ve been the leader in ethical, small-group travel since 1989 - taking people around the world for more than 30 years. They’re the world’s largest travel B Corporation - dedicated to being the best travel company for the world. In 2002, they established The Intrepid Foundation so their travellers could make a lasting impact on the communities they had visited. Although Intrepid Travel absorbs all administrative costs of The Intrepid Foundation, they are separate legal entities, allowing The Intrepid Foundation to grow independently. Intrepid Travel is made up of a collection of tour operator brands and 28 destination management companies all united by one vision: To change the way we all see the world.
In Business Since 1989
Reviews
Jennifer - Traveled, March 2025
This trip was nothing short of incredible! Our expedition team and the ship captain went above and beyond to make sure each & every person aboard had a wonderful and safe experience. Safety was always first and the knowledge of each guide regarding the geography and ecosystem of Antarctica was nothing less than stellar.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 03/25/2025
Gulshan - Traveled, February 2025
Antarctica is a must do for everyone. Life will never be the same again. Untouched beauty, unsurpassed landscapes. Incredible wildlife. Unique experiences. Even saw Emperor Penguins. Standing on ice in the middle of the ocean was the most uplifting feeling. Intrepid is the way to go!
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 03/14/2025
Dean - Traveled, February 2025
Incredible trip to the most remote area on the planet. Environmentally responsible and great support from the knowledgeable team onboard, as well as pre-visit.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 03/14/2025
Amanda - Traveled, February 2025
This expedition trip was amazing. So many penguins, whales & seals. It felt very safe, staff were very knowledgeable, food was plenty/delicious & educational lectures onboard were outstanding. Antarctica is truly spectacular & I'd love to do it again.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 03/24/2025
Christina - Traveled, January 2025
This trip and this crew was amazing. Intrepid exceeded all my expectations and I will be back!
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 02/09/2025
Nicki - Traveled, January 2025
Intrepid blew me away with this Antarctica cruise. The people were knowledgeable and energetic. You can tell they love their jobs. The food was incredible, our cabin was lovely, and the expeditions on land and sea were unforgettable.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 02/18/2025
Nigel - Traveled, January 2025
If you want a part tailor made trip then Intrepid know what they are doing.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 02/25/2025
Johanna - Traveled, January 2025
One in a lifetime experience to Antarctica. The expedition team were amazing. So pleased to see so many solo travellers and women on this trip too…both guests and team members. The only downside is the boat is a little dated so if you’re looking for luxury cabin this is not the trip for you! But cabins are ok and offer quite good value for money.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 03/05/2025
Alison - Traveled, January 2025
I highly recommend this trip for a comprehensive look at Antarctica. The crew from the Intrepid expedition experts to the hotel and hospitality staff were excellent. Definitely worth doing!
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 01/31/2025
Franca - Traveled, January 2025
The magical, mystical’other world’ that is Antarctica was beyond expectation. Zodiac landings were well coordinated our impact minimal, wildlife was prioritized & crew knowledge made everything so much more meaningful. And the entertainment was fab. Top marks Intrepid.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 01/31/2025
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