Ocean Nova and Hebridean Sky: Your Home Away from Home

Both Ocean Nova and Hebridean Sky are vessels with ice-strengthened hulls and therefore can sail in waters where ice is present. Although they are both excellent expedition vessels, they do have a few differences that you will want to be aware of.

Ocean Nova was specifically designed and built to sail through the icy waters of Greenland. In 2006, she was completely refurbished and every year since she has benefited from regular improvements so it can offer today’s guests a comfortable travel experience.

This adventurous small ship is limited to a maximum of 67 guests. With her extremely strong hull, It offers comfort and efficiency of operation in an informal environment. When the conditions permit, the ship can be garaged in the ice so guests can walk out directly on the frozen sea!

The ship offers three types of cabins: single, twin, and triple, all with windows, a desk, wardrobe, individually-controlled heating system, a private bathroom with shower and a hairdryer. Only twin beds are available on Ocean Nova.

When not visiting landing sites, as a guest on board Ocean Nova you can enjoy the views from the glass-enclosed observation lounge or from the observation deck above the bridge. While on board, you can take also advantage of the library, the small gym, the bar, as well as the dining room where you’ll break bread with your fellow explorers and recount your tales of the day’s exploits.

If you seek a more deluxe environment, then Hebridean Sky is the ship for you. This all-suites vessel underwent a multi-million-dollar renovation in 2016 and is now considered one of the finest small ships in the world. She is a small expedition ship, with room for up to 71 guests.

Hebridean Sky offers guests a choice of eight different suite categories, all of which are very spacious with great amenities. All suites include a private bathroom with shower and hairdryer, a sitting area, and windows. Some have private balconies. Suites offer either two twin beds or a queen-size bed.

When not in your suite, you can enjoy The Club bar and the ship’s lounge area, where you can take in the views and a couple of drinks. There is also an elegant library, a small exercise room, and a wrap-around deck so you can enjoy views from every vantage point. In addition to the main dining room, an outdoor café offers a second dining option, one that is particularly enjoyable for lunch when the weather allows.

Regardless of which ship you choose, you’ll enjoy daily buffet breakfast and lunches, as well as served dinners, all accompanies by a selection of premium Chilean wines. ON both ships we also offer our guests educational presentations from historians, naturalists, and other polar experts that help you fully appreciate all that you’re experiencing.

View photos, deck plans and more technical details in our ships and aircraft section and learn more about M/V Magellan Explorer, a brand new expedition vessel that will join the Antarctica21 fleet for the 2019-20 season!