Ocean Nova is a great ship for Antarctica expeditions. It is a sturdy and nimble expedition vessel that was built in Denmark in 1992 to sail the ice-choked waters of Greenland. It has a strengthened hull that is ideally suited for expedition travel in Antarctica. The ship was fully refurbished in 2006 and since then has benefitted from annual upgrades and improvements.
For the air-cruises, Ocean Nova has a capacity for 67 passengers accommodated in comfortable outside cabins. The ship offers three categories of accommodation: dedicated Single Cabins, Twin Cabins, and Triple Cabins. All cabins feature a picture window, a writing desk with a chair, a wardrobe, an individually controlled heating system, and a private bathroom with a shower.
In addition to a glass-enclosed observation lounge and presentation room, Ocean Nova also has a spacious dining room, a bar, a library, a small gym, and an infirmary. The ship has a fleet of Seven Zodiac boats that are well suited for disembarking and wildlife watching.
Explorers House is an exclusive facility in Punta Arenas where the boat’s team helps you prepare for your expedition. It is a dedicated facility built from a converted heritage building. Here, guests can prepare for their expedition by attending briefings, reviewing checklists, trying on expedition gear, practicing wearing a life jacket, and learning how to board a Zodiac. You’ll be all set to go! (A21)
The boat offers three categories of accommodations on Ocean Nova in Antarctica. All offer you a peaceful spot to rest for the next day’s adventure (triple, twin + single cabins).
Triple Cabins
Two lower twin beds and one upper bed
Private bathroom with a shower
A desk and a chair
A compact closet
Electrical outlets 220V/50Hz (European)
Twin Cabins
Two lower beds
Private bathroom with a shower
A desk and a chair
A compact closet
Electrical outlets 220V/50Hz (European)
Ship Specifications
67 Guests For Air-Cruises And 71 Guests For Sea Voyages
46 Expedition Staff And Crew Members
Ice Class: 1B, EO (Hull Ice 1A)
Length: 73 M
Breadth: 11 M
Draft: 3.7
2 Lifeboats (110 Capacity) & 4 Life Rafts (100 Capacity)
Propulsion: Diesel Engines, 2,000 Horsepower
Cruising Speed: 12 Knots In Open Water
Classic Antarctica Air-Cruise
Day 1: Start of the air-cruise
You must arrive in Punta Arenas, Chile, before 2 PM, whether you join us at the airport for a transfer to our hotel, or you meet us directly at the hotel. In the afternoon, you are welcomed at Explorers House to attend a mandatory briefing that provides important information about your air-cruise and reviews the essential guidelines for Antarctic visitors. Later, gather for a welcome dinner and meet your fellow adventurers while enjoying a typical regional menu.
Day 2: Scheduled Flight to Antarctica
Your Antarctic adventure begins with a two-hour flight from Punta Arenas to King George Island, in the South Shetland Islands. As you exit the airplane, the clear Antarctic air fills your lungs for the first time. You then board a transfer vehicle and pass Chile’s Frei Station and Russia’s Bellingshausen Station to reach the shore and board a Zodiac that will take you to your boutique expedition vessel.
Days 3-6: Exploring Antarctica
Cruise between the South Shetland Islands and the western coast of the Antarctic Peninsula, sailing along ice-filled fjords and among spectacular icebergs, while enjoying the company of seabirds, penguins, seals, and whales. Each day disembark by Zodiac and explore the landscape together with expert polar guides. On board the ship, attend an engaging program of educational presentations, and enjoy spectacular views from the lounge while sharing your daily adventures with fellow guests. No journey is the same and flexibility is the key to success in Antarctica. The Expedition Team plans the voyage route to take advantage of the ever-changing opportunities provided by nature, crafting a unique and extraordinary experience every time. While the exact itinerary changes with each expedition, you will explore several sites that offer the best possible overview of the varied Antarctic environment. Your voyage may include visits to sites in the South Shetland Islands, the Antarctic Sound, the Gerlache Strait, and the Penola Strait.
Day 7: Scheduled Return Flight from Antarctica
Return to King George Island and bid farewell to Antarctica before boarding the flight back to Punta Arenas. 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 8: End of the air-cruise
After breakfast, transfer to the Punta Arenas airport for your onward flight.
* Contact us for dates, rates & availability.
Check out the boat HERE