
The Ocean Nova is the rugged adventurer of the Antarctica21 fleet, offering a classic "base camp" experience for travelers who prioritize agility and immersion. Originally built in Denmark to navigate the ice-choked waters of Greenland, this expedition vessel is celebrated for its incredibly strong ice-class hull and maneuverability, allowing it to reach deep into fjords and bays that larger ships simply cannot access. With a capacity limited to just 67 guests on air-cruises, the Ocean Nova excels in logistical speed; the entire group can disembark into Zodiacs at once, maximizing your time hiking near penguin colonies or kayaking among the floes rather than waiting in line.
On board, the atmosphere is warm, social, and unpretentious, featuring clean Scandinavian styling that makes the ship feel like a cozy floating lodge. While the vessel does not feature balconies, every cabin is an outside stateroom equipped with a large picture window, ensuring you remain connected to the polar environment even while resting. The heart of the ship is the glass-enclosed observation lounge on the upper deck, which offers sweeping panoramic views of the Antarctic landscape and serves as the perfect spot to swap stories with fellow explorers or spot whales while enjoying a coffee. For those seeking a genuine, close-knit expedition atmosphere without sacrificing comfort, the Ocean Nova is an exceptional choice.
108 sq. feet
-Twin Cabin featuring bathroom, window, desk and chair, and two lower twin beds.
86 sq. feet
-Single Cabin, featuring bathroom, window, desk and chair, single lower bed.

Antarctica21 offers a pioneering air-cruise experience, allowing travelers to explore Antarctica in comfort and efficiency. Unlike traditional Antarctic cruises that require a lengthy and often turbulent crossing of the Drake Passage, Antarctica21’s innovative approach flies guests directly to King George Island, eliminating days at sea and maximizing exploration time. Once in Antarctica, guests board one of Antarctica21’s small expedition ships, designed for an intimate, immersive, and personalized experience in one of the world’s most remote and awe-inspiring destinations.
Each voyage is carefully crafted to deliver an unforgettable polar adventure, featuring expert-led excursions, Zodiac landings, and guided hikes that bring travelers up close to majestic glaciers, towering icebergs, and incredible wildlife such as penguins, seals, and whales. With a commitment to sustainability, safety, and comfort, Antarctica21’s boutique-style expeditions offer a premium experience with fewer guests, ensuring more personalized service and deeper engagement with the pristine Antarctic environment. Onboard, travelers enjoy comfortable accommodations, gourmet cuisine, and expert lectures, enriching their understanding of the continent’s unique ecosystem and history.
At Small Ship Travel, we specialize in selecting the world’s finest small ship expeditions, ensuring that each journey meets our high standards of luxury, authenticity, and responsible exploration. Antarctica21 has been carefully vetted and selected as a premier partner in our curated collection, reflecting our commitment to offering travelers the best small ship experiences available.
With a focus on expedition-style travel that balances adventure with comfort, Antarctica21 aligns perfectly with Small Ship Travel’s mission to provide journeys that are both immersive and seamless. Our team of experts works closely with Antarctica21 to create tailor-made itineraries, ensuring that every aspect of your Antarctic voyage—from the initial planning to the final departure—is handled with precision and care.
As experts in luxury small ship travel, Small Ship Travel provides exclusive access, expert guidance, and concierge-level service to enhance your Antarctica21 experience. From selecting the perfect itinerary to arranging pre- and post-expedition accommodations, private transfers, and specialized gear recommendations, we ensure that every detail is taken care of.
Embark on the ultimate Antarctic adventure with Antarctica21 and Small Ship Travel—where innovation, exploration, and luxury come together for an unforgettable journey to the White Continent. Contact us today to begin planning your expedition.
Reach out to our travel concierges today to create your perfect journey.