antarctic expedition cruise

November 2025 – 21-day expedition cruise

cruise to the great white contintent

Since 1998, Southern Sea Ventures has pioneered commercial sea kayaking in Antarctica, sharing our passion for polar expeditions with adventurers from across the globe. We’re excited to revisit Antarctica aboard the cozy, 78-passenger Ocean Nova, in partnership with PolarQuest, for a 21-day journey, exploring the Sub Antarctic Islands and Antarctica from Ushuaia, Argentina.

Highlights include the wildlife-rich Falkland Islands and South Georgia, home to numerous elephant seals and king penguins, and the pristine landscapes of Antarctica’s icebergs, serene bays, and penguin colonies.

discover the magic of south georgia

South Georgia, nestled in the heart of the Southern Ocean, boasts dramatic 3000-metre peaks, expansive glaciers, and pristine sandy beaches, presenting some of the most breathtaking landscapes on the planet.

The island teems with life; its beaches, rocks, waters, and skies are a bustling hub for wildlife. Immersing yourself among hundreds of thousands of king penguins, with their powerful presence, is an unforgettable encounter.

South Georgia is also home to colossal elephant seals, some males weighing up to four tons and commanding harems of over 200 females. Visitors are charmed by the seal pups, just beginning to explore their surroundings, their large, dark eyes capturing hearts. The absence of land-based predators means the island’s animals are unafraid of humans, allowing for magical, undisturbed wildlife experiences.

Aboard the ocean nova

Launched in Denmark in 1992 and fully refurbished in 2006, the Ocean Nova, sister to the popular M/S Quest, now serves as a cozy expedition vessel, hosting up to 78 passengers in well-appointed twin and triple cabins, all featuring ocean views and private bathrooms. Each cabin also offers a desk, chair and ample storage.

Dine on sumptuous meals in the dining room and enjoy refreshments in the panorama lounge against the stunning backdrop of polar landscapes. Here, engaging lectures on local wildlife, flora and history enrich your journey. The ship boasts a well-stocked polar library and DVDs for further exploration.

Guests are encouraged to visit the bridge anytime and enjoy expansive views from the observation decks. With a relaxed, friendly atmosphere, Ocean Nova promises a unique and intimate polar adventure unlike any large cruise experience.

Expedition Antarctica from PolarQuest on Vimeo.

antarctica: cruise to the great white continent

Grade

Easy – Moderate

This trip is suitable for active individuals with a thirst for adventure. The kayaking option suits paddlers with some kayak experience.

Trip Grading

Dates

2025
9-29 November

Cost

From USD $15,990*

*Final price will depend on cabin chosen.

Includes

Nineteen nights on board the Ocean Nova, hotel accommodation (twin share) in Ushuaia, lunch on day 2, all meals on board, all shore excursions from the ship including Zodiacs, lectures, videos, slide and film shows, expedition guide services, port taxes and port charges imposed by government authorities, and medical services with a resident doctor and well-equipped clinic on board.

Excludes

Any flights not listed in the itinerary, single supplements, charges for visas, passports, vaccinations, and airport departure taxes, hotels and meals not part of the voyage itinerary, optional excursions outside the voyage itinerary, laundry, personal clothing, medical expenses, personal travel insurance, items of a personal nature like bar and phone/email charges, emergency evacuation charges, alcohol unless specified, optional activities like kayaking without payment of the activity supplement, tips for crew and service personnel on board, and airport/ship transfers.