Best of Antarctica: Whale Discovery

Intrepid Travel · 12 days
Best of Antarctica: Whale Discovery
Best of Antarctica: Whale Discovery
Best of Antarctica: Whale Discovery
Best of Antarctica: Whale Discovery
Best of Antarctica: Whale Discovery
Best of Antarctica: Whale Discovery
Best of Antarctica: Whale Discovery
Best of Antarctica: Whale Discovery
Best of Antarctica: Whale Discovery
Best of Antarctica: Whale Discovery
Best of Antarctica: Whale Discovery
Best of Antarctica: Whale Discovery
Best of Antarctica: Whale Discovery
Best of Antarctica: Whale Discovery
Best of Antarctica: Whale Discovery
Best of Antarctica: Whale Discovery
Best of Antarctica: Whale Discovery
Best of Antarctica: Whale Discovery
Best of Antarctica: Whale Discovery
12 Days
From AUD $17930
Trip Type
Group Tour
Activity Level
Light

Rating


(1 reviews)

Best of Antarctica: Whale Discovery

Best of Antarctica: Whale Discovery

Intrepid Travel · 12 days
Duration

12 days

Tour Type

Group Tour

Accommodations

Comfortable

Physical Rating

Light

Guide Language

English

Experience Overview

All aboard – the journey of a lifetime awaits. Set sail towards the Antarctic Peninsula, where whales gather in their largest numbers, on this 12-day expedition designed especially for wildlife-lovers and epic adventurers.

Highlights

  • Keep watch for an abundance of humpback whales, as these marine mammals migrate south to feed on krill.
  • Admire the breathtaking scenery and wildlife that surrounds you, such as Gentoo and chinstrap penguins, fur seals, albatross and so much more, backed by icebergs and glaciated mountains.
  • Head out on daily Zodiac cruises and shore excursions (weather permitting), allow you to fully immerse yourself in the breathtaking surroundings of the Antarctic wilderness.
  • Settle in to listen to onboard specialists, who’ll provide invaluable insights during talks on topics spanning the region's diverse wildlife to its unique geology.
  • Contribute to various vital research projects by participating in our Citizen Science Program, all led by our expert Expedition Team. 

Trip Details

Duration

12 days

Transportation

Expedition cruise ship,zodiac

Tour Type

Group Tour

Guide Language

English

Starts

Ushuaia, Antarctica

Finishes

Disembarkation in Ushuaia, Argentina, Antarctica

Accommodations

Comfortable

Travel Style

Polar

Physical Rating

Light

Itinerary

1
Day 1: Ushuaia
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.

Accommodation:

  • Comfortable Hotel (Number of Nights: 1)
2
Day 2: Embarkation in Ushuaia, Argentina
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

Accommodation:

  • Expedition Cruise Ship (Number of Nights: 1)
3
Day 3-4: At sea, Drake Passage
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

Accommodation:

  • Expedition Cruise Ship (Number of Nights: 2)
4
Day 5-9: South Shetland Islands & Antarctic Peninsula
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 (349 USD)
  • Onboard Gym - Free

Accommodation:

  • Expedition Cruise Ship (Number of Nights: 5)
5
Day 10-11: At Sea, Drake Passage
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

Accommodation:

  • Expedition Cruise Ship (Number of Nights: 2)
6
Day 12: Disembarkation in Ushuaia, Argentina
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.
Exclusions
  • Flights to and from origin and destinations
  • Airport transfers (arrival and departure)
  • Anything else not explicitly listed in tour inclusions
  • Recommended gratuities/tipping
  • Optional activities/tours
  • Personal expenses
  • Travel insurance
  • Visas, meals and beverages not stated in the list of inclusions.
Important Information
Meals

When meals are not included, your tour leader (where available) will be happy to help with restaurant recommendations, bookings, and directions. Please let us know if you have any dietary needs or preferences. We willdo our best to accommodate these, though we cannot guarantee that every request can be met.

Luggage

You are responsible for your personal belongings throughout the tour. You will need to carry your own bags between the vehicle and your hotel room. Drivers will assist with loading and unloading luggage from the vehicle.

Mobility

Travellers requiring wheelchair access should contact our sales and service team, who can make enquiries on your behalf.

Fitness Level

This tour requires an Average level of fitness. Activities are paced gently and include leisure time. You may be expected to join guided walks of up to one hour, navigate short stairways and mild inclines, and manage your own luggage. You should also be able to board and exit all transport without assistance.

Travellers are expected to be self-sufficient and capable of handling all aspects of their journey. Please discuss your circumstances and support needs with your booking agent to confirm this trip is suitable.

If you are unsure, we recommend consulting your doctor before booking or travelling. (Note: I assume each tour has a different description depending on level of fitness required).

Sightseeing

If a planned site visit is unavailable due to changes in operating hours or holiday closures, the itinerary may be altered, or a comparable activity will be substituted where possible and subject to availability.

Visas

Visa conditions can change. Once you receive your travel documents, check with the relevant embassy, consulate, or immigration office of your destination for the latest information.

  • It is your responsibility to ensure you have the correct and valid travel documents and to comply with all entry requirements.
  • Non-Australian citizens must also confirm visa and identification requirements with the appropriate consulate or visa agency.
  • Certain occupations (for example, journalists, government officials, or those working in charities) may face additional restrictions when applying for visas, which could affect the type of application required.
Departure Dates & Surcharges: See checkout for live dates and availability.
AUD $17,930
(Tour only)
Per Person Twin Share

Duration: 12 days

Trip Type: Group Tour

Activity Level: Light

All aboard – the journey of a lifetime awaits. Set sail towards the Antarctic Peninsula, where whales gather in their largest numbers, on this 12-day expedition designed especially for wildlife-lovers and epic adventurers.

Price based on per person in Double Room for departure 16 Feb 2027

Customer Reviews

Overall Rating
Excellent
4.5
Guide
Excellent
4.5
Itinerary
Excellent
4.5
Accommodations
Excellent
4.5
Transportation
Excellent
4.5
Tour Operator
Excellent
4.5
Food
Excellent
4.5
5.0
Jennifer
Traveled, March 2025

03/25/2025

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.

Tour Operator

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