Celebrating New Year's in Antarctica (Ocean Nova)

Intrepid Travel · 11 days

4.4

10 Reviews

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Duration

11 days

Tour Type

Group Tour

Accommodations

Comfortable

Physical Rating

Light

Guide Language

English

Experience Overview

Christmas getaways simply don’t get better than this. Journey to Antarctica on an 11-day expedition and experience the magic of the festive season among ice-capped mountain ranges, iconic wildlife and immense icebergs and glaciers.

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

Duration

11 days

Transportation

Guide Language

English

Starts

Ushuaia, Antarctica

Finishes

Ushuaia, Antarctica

Accommodations

Comfortable

Travel Style

Polar

Physical Rating

Light

Itinerary

Day 1: Ushuaia

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)

Day 2: Ushuaia

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)

Day 3: Drake Passage

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)

Day 4: Drake Passage

Accommodation:

Expedition Cruise Ship (Number of Nights: 1)

Day 5: Antarctic Peninsula

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)

Day 6: Antarctic Peninsula

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)

Day 7: Antarctic Peninsula

Accommodation:

Expedition Cruise Ship (Number of Nights: 1)

Day 8: Antarctic Peninsula

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)

Day 9: Drake Passage

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)

Day 10: Drake Passage

Accommodation:

Expedition Cruise Ship (Number of Nights: 1)

Day 11: Ushuaia

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.

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 will do 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.

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 $23,020

(Tour only)

Per Person Twin Share

Duration: 11 days

Trip Type: Group Tour

Activity Level: Light

Check Availability Brochure

Price based on per person in Double Room for departure 26 Dec 2026

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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

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.

4.0

Gulshan

Traveled, February 2025

03/14/2025

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!

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

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