Ultimate Antarctica
November 17th - 2nd December 2027
Photograph Antarctica at its purest… without compromise
We are very proud and excited to be able to announce a very special charter in collaboration with WildPhoto Travel and Wildlife & Wilderness: an exclusive photographic expedition aboard the 68-berth vessel the MV Ocean Nova, setting sail in the early Antarctic season of 2027.
This voyage is designed by photographers, for photographers therefore giving you extended time (9–10 full days) in the Antarctic Peninsula during one of the most visually spectacular windows of the year. With snow-covered landscapes, active penguin colonies, seals on ice, and dramatic light; the conditions are ideal for capturing striking wildlife and landscape images. To help you make the most of every moment we have a team of world class photo leaders on board too.
Unlike more rigid itineraries, our schedule is flexible, allowing us to take full advantage of photographic opportunities as they arise - whether it’s perfect light, a rare wildlife sighting, or a magical moment unfolding in the ice right in front of you.
That is why this is such a special expedition and one where you will take home memories that last a lifetime.
Trip Highlights
15 day / 14 night Antarctica voyage with landings and zodiacs
Expedition designed for photographers with maximum time spent in the environment
Landings timed for the best light (dawn & dusk) and activity
Zodiac cruises throughout to maximise wildlife encounters including speciality ones for underwater polecam shots
Multiple photography guides on board including Andy Rouse, with tuition available in wildlife photography and post processing skills
Early season voyage for maximum snow and beautiful landscapes
Modern, comfortable and intimate expedition ship - all cabins are outer cabins with ensuites
Flat access onto zodiacs, with queuing inside the ship
Extensive pre-departure briefings on what to take, both in terms of kit and photographically
Managed by ATOL bonded tour operator Wildlife & Wilderness to handle flights from anywhere in the world.
Cabin prices start at $17,995 for a twin share, payments by installments over the next two years
Amazing Wildlife and Scenery - see Antarctica at its finest!
This will be an unforgettable journey; for the wildlife, the landscapes, and simply the feeling of being in such an awe-inspiring place. Early in the season, Antarctica is at its most pristine, with dramatic backdrops and active wildlife. With support from expert photo leaders, you’ll be able to capture images and memories that will stay with you forever. No brochure can truly convey what it’s like to be there, but we’ve included a taste of the experience through some of Andy’s favourite images in the slideshow below.
What sets this cruise apart is the variety. Yes, we aim to land at iconic penguin colonies (weather permitting), but we’ll also seek out those special atmospheric conditions that elevate images to something magical. Zodiac cruises will bring us close to stunning ice formations, playful penguins, dramatic seascapes - and even offer underwater photography opportunities using simple polecams from the boat, so no wetsuits required.
The world’s last great wilderness - seen through your camera
Playful Adelie Penguins
You will love Adelie Penguins! They are the comics of the penguin world, always squabbling and up to mischief. They are great fun to watch and we hope to visit several of their colonies during the cruise.
Seals galore
Seals are at their best to photograph during this season, whether chillin on shore or on a passing iceberg. Expect to see Leopard, Weddell, Crabeater seals with maybe a few of their larger Elephant cousins too.
Fun Gentoos and Chinstraps
Adelies are not the only penguins we will see, Chinstraps and Gentoos await us as well and they have their own unique personalities. We will photograph them on land, on icebergs and hopefully underwater too!
Icebergs and friends
We will hopefully see some really spectacular icebergs, and sometimes they will have some friends hitching a ride! We will also get the chance to photograph these underwater as well on our speciality zodiac cruises.
Inspiring Landscapes
At this time of the year we expect Antarctica to be at it’s finest. The landscapes, shot mainly from the open decks of the ship, should be full of ice and snow with hopefully some atmospheric light too!
Bird life
Albatross, petrels and other birds follow the ship, giving the chance of really atmospheric images of these amazing birds. Our photo leaders will be on deck with you to ensure you capture the best pics.
