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  • Bird Quest
9 nights
from £4795

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Bird Quest

A discovery of Britain’s seabird islands aboard the Ocean Nova

  • 5 May 2026
  • 14 May 2026
  • 5 May 2027
  • 14 May 2027
New Search
  • Expedition Cruising
  • Overview
  • Poole to Oban Itinerary
  • Oban to Poole Itinerary
  • Dates & Prices
  • Ocean Nova
  • Testimonials
  • Also of Interest
  • Travel Post

Bird Quest

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    Useful links & Travel Advice

    Please find a selection of  useful websites  to refer to for information from the Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office, on visa requirements, NHS travel health advice and other useful travel tips.

    • St Agnes

    The seabird islands of the western British Isles are the envy of the birding world and yet it is not easy to sample the wonderful diversity of their character and come face-to-face with seagoing inhabitants. This unusual expedition cruise will appeal to those who wish to explore our coastal waters, observe the marvellous seabird and marine life and walk across untouched coastal wilderness areas. The focus of our expedition is the prolific birdlife but the region is also rich in historical and cultural heritage and with our naturalists and local guides we will discover some of the most remote and uninhabited islands that surround the coast of Britain together with inhabited islands such as Alderney and Rathlin.

    Cruising aboard the 84-passenger Ocean Nova, we will be able to enjoy expedition cruising at its best. Although we will set sail with a schedule, it will not be set in stone. The Captain and expedition team keep a flexible approach allowing you the opportunity to fully experience the unexpected, whether it be a sighting of dolphins, a whale or any unusual event. Our exploration of inlets, estuaries and protected coastal waters will be made all the more enjoyable by the use of our Zodiac landing craft which enable us to land in remote places such as St Kilda, providing for an unusual perspective and making the otherwise inaccessible readily available. This is a wonderful opportunity to see some of our most beautiful places and view some of the extensive birdlife. No matter your level of expertise you will find a warm welcome and a cornucopia of stunning sights and sounds.

    Useful links & Travel Advice

    Please find a selection of  useful websites  to refer to for information from the Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office, on visa requirements, NHS travel health advice and other useful travel tips.


    Ocean Nova

    Ocean Nova

    Built in Denmark in 1992, the Ocean Nova was completely refurbished in 2006 and now operates as a small, comfortable expedition ship, accommodating up to 84 passengers.

    Cabins are spread over two decks and include cabins for the single traveller, double and triple cabins, all with sea-view and private facilities. The comfortable dining room located on the Upper deck seats all passengers in a single sitting and offers delicious meals with a mixture of table service and buffet. The informal dining arrangement adds to the friendly atmosphere onboard and meals are a great chance to discuss all you have seen with your fellow travellers, and for the expedition team to share their knowledge. 

    Click here for an interactive tour of the ship.

    View vessel details

    Poole to Oban Itinerary

    • St Agnes
    • Abbey Gardens, Tresco

    5th May 2026 & 5th May 2027 Departures

    Day 1 Poole, England.

    Embark the Ocean Nova this afternoon. A transfer will be provided from Poole Railway Station at a fixed time. Enjoy welcome drinks and dinner as we sail this evening.

    Day 2 Alderney, Channel Islands.

    Arrive in the Channel Islands and spend the morning on Alderney where our onboard team will lead a series of walks to explore the island. Visit the island’s only town, St Anne, which has all the old world charm of a Normandy village with tiny squares and pastel shaded cottages and shops. You may wish to visit the museum which is packed with historical artefacts ranging from the Romans to the German occupation during the Second World War. Those feeling active can join a walk to see the German fortifications and Victorian forts along the coastline before arriving at Les Etacs gannet colony. These rocks are situated just 100 metres offshore and are home to 6,000 pairs of gannets. Return to the ship for lunch and maybe join a lecture during our afternoon at sea.

    Day 3 Isles of Scilly, England.

    We have a day in the Isles of Scilly, an archipelago of five inhabited islands and up to one hundred and forty uninhabited islets, located 30 miles off the coast of Cornwall. Our day will depend on weather and sea conditions but we hope to visit traffic-free Tresco, walking its idyllic lanes from the beach to the famous subtropical Abbey Gardens. Defying the Atlantic weather, this miracle of a garden is home to more than 20,000 species of plants from over 80 countries. Enjoy time to wander along the paths, maybe visit the Valhalla collection of ship figureheads from ships wrecked on the islands or relax in the café. Later we hope to land on St Agnes, the most south-westerly community in the UK. Surrounded by rocks and reefs, this delightful tiny island offers marvellous coastal walks. The small island of Gugh lies across a narrow sandbar and here we find a single stone monolith called the ‘Old Man of Gugh’ which dates back to the Bronze Age. En-route we plan to sail past the nearby island of Annet, the second largest of the uninhabited islands and a bird sanctuary. We will cruise by to see the coastline alive with puffins, European storm petrels and shag.

    Day 4 Skomer Island & Grassholm Island, Wales.

    We awake this morning off the Pembrokeshire Coast at the Island of Skomer. One of the most important wildlife sites in Northern Europe, this island has fantastic birdlife including over 41,000 individual puffins, countless numbers of guillemots, fulmar, kittiwakes and the elusive Manx shearwater and storm petrel. We will use our Zodiacs to take a closer look and may also see some of the resident seals. Return to the ship for lunch as we sail to Grassholm, one of the world’s largest gannetries with over 16,000 breeding pairs.

    Day 5 Holyhead, Wales & Calf of Man, Isle of Man.

    Over breakfast we arrive at Holyhead, adjacent to Anglesey, with its spectacular sea cliffs. Here we will visit the RSPB’s reserve at South Stack, a beautiful but fragile maritime sward and heathland which is home to a large population of guillemots and razorbills. If we are lucky, we might also see some choughs. On a choice of walks, we will also see Ellin’s tower, a Victorian folly, and South Stack lighthouse built in 1809, maybe spotting some dolphins in the waters below. Returning to the ship for lunch we hope to arrive in the late afternoon at the Calf of Man, a 600 acre island situated off the southern tip of the Isle of Man, and home to thousands of seabirds including Manx shearwater, kittiwake and razorbill. Meanwhile in the water we may be lucky to see dolphins and seals.

    Day 6 Ailsa Craig, Scotland & Rathlin Island, Northern Ireland.

    In the early morning we will anchor off the granite island of Ailsa Craig. This tiny island, just 2.5 miles in circumference, was once a refuge for sailors and base to a 19th century lighthouse. Today it is an RSPB reserve and home to the third largest gannet colony in Britain. We will use the Zodiacs and cruise the coastal waters for a closer look searching for puffins, guillemots and gulls. Sail in the late morning towards Rathlin Island. Located just a few miles from the North Antrim coast, Rathlin has been settled for more than 6,000 years. Today, there are only 80 or so inhabitants, whereas before the famine there were 1,200. Enjoy a guided walk which will take in the prolific seabird life with astonishing numbers of auks, kittiwakes and grey seals. This evening we will sail past the magnificent cliffs to the north of the island which are home to the largest seabird colony in Ireland.

    Day 7 Staffa & Lunga, Scotland.

    Overnight we will sail to Staffa, where the perpendicular rock face features an imposing series of black basalt columns, known as the Colonnade, which have been cut by the sea into cathedralesque caverns, most notably Fingal’s Cave. Weather permitting, we will use our Zodiacs to explore closer. We continue to Lunga, the largest of the Treshnish Isles. Of volcanic origin, Lunga has been described as a ‘green jewel in a peacock sea’. Populated until the 19th century, the island still bears the remains of black houses. There is prolific birdlife on the island including storm petrels, puffins, kittiwakes and Manx shearwaters.

    Day 8 St Kilda & Stac Lee, Outer Hebrides.

    Arrive this morning at St Kilda, a remarkable uninhabited archipelago some 50 miles beyond the Outer Hebrides. Dominated by the highest cliffs and sea stacks in Britain, Hirta, St Kilda’s main island was occupied on and off for at least 2,000 years, with the last 36 Gaelic speaking inhabitants evacuated at their request in 1930. Immediately after the evacuation, the island was bought by the Marquess of Bute to protect the island’s thousands of seabirds including puffins and fulmars, and in 1957 it was bequeathed to the National Trust for Scotland. St Kilda is one of the few UNESCO World Heritage Sites with dual status reflecting its natural and cultural significance. The local ranger will join us on board before our expedition staff lead several guided walks on the island. This afternoon we cruise past two of the largest gannetries in the world at Stac Lee and Boreray. These impressive stacs rise 170 metres from the sea and are home to up to 60,000 breeding pairs of northern gannets.

    Day 9 Shiant Islands & Isle of Lewis.

    This morning we will board the Zodiacs for a cruise around the spectacular basalt cliffs of the Shiant Islands, a group of little islands located a few miles off the shores of the Isle of Lewis. This is an excellent place to spot puffins, razorbills, guillemots, seals and hopefully white-tailed eagles. Over lunch we sail the short distance to Loch Sealg on the southern coast of Lewis where we can stretch our legs as we explore the abandoned, former crofters, village of Stiomrabhaigh.

    Day 10 Oban.

    Disembark after breakfast. Transfers will be provided to Glasgow Airport and Glasgow Central Railway Station at a fixed time.

    • South Stack Lighthouse, Holyhead
    • Alderney
    • St Kilda

    Oban to Poole Itinerary

    • St Agnes
    • Abbey Gardens, Tresco

    14th May 2026 & 14th May 2027 Departures

    Day 1 Oban, Scotland.

    Embark the Ocean Nova this afternoon. A transfer will be provided from Glasgow Airport and Glasgow Central Railway Station at a fixed time. Enjoy welcome drinks and dinner as we sail this evening.

    Day 2 Shiant Islands & Isle of Lewis.

    This morning we will board the Zodiacs for a cruise around the spectacular basalt cliffs of the Shiant Islands, a group of little islands located a few miles off the shores of Lewis. This is an excellent place to spot puffins, razorbills, guillemots, seals and hopefully white-tailed eagles. Over lunch we sail the short distance to Loch Shell on the southern coast of Lewis where we can stretch our legs as we explore the abandoned, former crofters, village of Stiomrabhaigh.

    Day 3 St Kilda & Stac Lee, Outer Hebrides.

    Arrive this morning at St Kilda, a remarkable uninhabited archipelago some 50 miles beyond the Outer Hebrides. Dominated by the highest cliffs and sea stacks in Britain, Hirta, St Kilda’s main island was occupied on and off for at least 2,000 years, with the last 36 Gaelic speaking inhabitants evacuated at their request in 1930. Immediately after the evacuation, the island was bought by the Marquess of Bute to protect the island’s thousands of seabirds including puffins and fulmars, and in 1957 it was bequeathed to the National Trust for Scotland. St Kilda is one of the few UNESCO World Heritage Sites with dual status reflecting its natural and cultural significance. The local ranger will join us on board before our expedition staff lead several guided walks on the island. This afternoon we cruise past two of the largest gannetries in the world at Stac Lee and Boreray. These impressive stacs rise 170 metres from the sea and are home to up to 60,000 breeding pairs of northern gannets.

    Day 4 Staffa & Lunga.

    Overnight we will sail to Staffa, where the perpendicular rock face features an imposing series of black basalt columns, known as the Colonnade, which have been cut by the sea into cathedralesque caverns, most notably Fingal’s Cave. Weather permitting, we will use our Zodiacs to explore closer. We continue to Lunga, the largest of the Treshnish Isles. Of volcanic origin, Lunga has been described as a ‘green jewel in a peacock sea’. Populated until the 19th century, the island still bears the remains of black houses. There is prolific birdlife on the island including storm petrels, puffins, kittiwakes and Manx shearwaters.

    Day 5 Rathlin Island, Northern Ireland & Ailsa Craig, Scotland.

    Located just a few miles from the North Antrim coast, Rathlin has been settled for more than 6,000 years. Today, there are only 80 or so inhabitants, whereas before the famine there were 1,200. Enjoy a guided walk which will take in the prolific seabird life with astonishing numbers of auks, kittiwakes and grey seals.  We will also sail past the magnificent cliffs to the north of the island which are home to the largest seabird colony in Ireland. In the late afternoon we will anchor off the granite island of Ailsa Craig. This tiny island, just 2.5 miles in circumference, was once a refuge for sailors and base to a 19th century lighthouse. Today it is an RSPB reserve and home to the third largest gannet colony in Britain. We will use the Zodiacs and cruise the coastal waters for a closer look searching for puffins, guillemots and gulls.

    Day 6 Calf of Man, Isle of Man & Holyhead, Wales.

    Arrive at dawn at the Calf of Man, a 600 acre island situated off the southern tip of the Isle of Man, and home to thousands of seabirds including Manx shearwater, kittiwake and razorbill. Meanwhile in the water we may be lucky to see dolphins and seals. Cruise for the rest of the morning before we arrive at Holyhead, adjacent to Anglesey with its spectacular sea cliffs. Here we will visit the RSPB’s reserve at South Stack, a beautiful but fragile maritime sward and heathland which is home to a large population of guillemots and razorbills. If we are lucky, we might also see some choughs. On a choice of walks, we will see also see Ellin’s tower, a Victorian folly and South Stack lighthouse built in 1809, maybe spotting some dolphins in the waters below.

    Day 7 Skomer Island & Grassholm Island, Wales.

    We awake this morning off the Pembrokeshire Coast at the island of Skomer. One of the most important wildlife sites in Northern Europe, this island has fantastic birdlife including 6,000 pairs of puffins, countless numbers of guillemots, fulmar, kittiwakes and the elusive Manx shearwater and storm petrel. We will use our Zodiacs to take a closer look also may also see some of the resident seals. Return to the ship for lunch as we sail to Grassholm, one of the world’s largest gannetries with over 34,000 breeding pairs.

    Day 8 Isles of Scilly, England.

    We have a day in the Isles of Scilly, an archipelago of five inhabited islands and up to one hundred and forty uninhabited islets, located 30 miles off the coast of Cornwall. Our day will depend on weather and sea conditions but we hope to visit traffic-free Tresco, walking its idyllic lanes from the beach to the famous subtropical Abbey Gardens. Defying the Atlantic weather, this miracle of a garden is home to more than 20,000 species of plants from over 80 countries. Enjoy time to wander along the paths, maybe visit the Valhalla collection of ship figureheads from ships wrecked on the islands or relax in the café. Later we hope to land on St Agnes, the most south-westerly community in the UK. Surrounded by rocks and reefs, this delightful tiny island offers marvellous coastal walks. The small island of Gugh lies across a narrow sandbar and here we find a single stone monolith called the ‘Old Man of Gugh’ which dates back to the Bronze Age. En-route we plan to sail past the nearby island of Annet, the second largest of the uninhabited islands and a bird sanctuary. We will cruise by to see the coastline alive with puffins, European storm petrels and shag.

    Day 9 Alderney, Channel Islands.

    After a morning at sea we arrive in the Channel Islands and spend the afternoon on Alderney where our onboard team will lead a series of walks to explore the island. Visit the island’s only town, St Anne, which has all the old world charm of a Normandy village with tiny squares and pastel shaded cottages and shops. You may wish to visit the museum which is packed with historical artefacts ranging from the Romans to the German occupation during the Second World War. Those feeling active can join a walk to see the German fortifications and Victorian forts along the coastline before arriving at Les Etacs gannet colony. These rocks are situated just 100 metres offshore and are home to 6,000 pairs of gannets.

    Day 10 Poole, England.

    Disembark after breakfast. Transfers will be provided to Poole Railway Station at a fixed time.

    • South Stack Lighthouse, Holyhead
    • Alderney
    • St Kilda

    Dates and Prices

    Poole to Oban Itinerary

    Prices per person based on double occupancy
    5 to 14 May 2027
    Category Price
    Category 1 Bunk Bedded cabin for twin use £4995
    Category 2 Standard Twin £5395
    Category 3 Superior Twin £5695
    Category 1 Bunk bedded cabin for sole use £5795
    Category 2 Standard twin for sole use £6295

    Oban to Poole Itinerary

    Prices per person based on double occupancy
    14 to 23 May 2026
    Category Price
    Category 1 Bunk Bedded cabin for twin use £4795
    Category 2 Standard Twin £5195
    Category 3 Superior Twin £5495
    Category 1 Bunk bedded cabin for sole use £5595
    Category 2 Standard twin for sole use £6095
    14 to 23 May 2027
    Category Price
    Category 1 Bunk Bedded cabin for twin use £4995
    Category 2 Standard Twin £5395
    Category 3 Superior Twin £5695
    Category 1 Bunk bedded cabin for sole use £5795
    Category 2 Standard twin for sole use £6295

    Poole to Oban Itinerary

    5 to 14 May 2026
    Category Price
    Category 1 Bunk Bedded cabin for twin use Fully Booked
    Category 2 Standard Twin Fully Booked
    Category 3 Superior Twin Fully Booked
    Category 1 Bunk bedded cabin for sole use Fully Booked
    Category 2 Standard twin for sole use Fully Booked

    Tour Reference Code: SCON050526/SCON140526

    PRICE INCLUDES: Nine nights aboard the Ocean Nova on a full board basis • House wine, beer and soft drinks with lunch and dinner • Noble Caledonia expedition team • Shore excursions • Gratuities • Transfers • Port taxes.

    Not Included: Travel insurance.

    Expedition Cruising

    During this expedition you will be visiting out of the way destinations and will be accompanied by an expedition team. Landings and excursions will be made by Zodiac landing craft. The use of Zodiacs will be key to the operation of the itinerary as shown. If you have any queries pertaining to the use of Zodiacs or the level of fitness required for this voyage, please do not hesitate to ask one of our experienced travel consultants.

    Please be aware that our website does not display real-time availability. As a result, the categories and prices listed above are subject to change. For the most up-to-date information, please call us at 020 7752 0000 and speak with one of our experienced Travel Consultants.

    • Deckplan

       

      {MEDIA GALLERY DEFAULT}

    Ocean Nova

    Built in Denmark in 1992, the Ocean Nova was completely refurbished in 2006 and now operates as a small, comfortable expedition ship, accommodating up to 84 passengers.

    Cabins are spread over two decks and include cabins for the single traveller, double and triple cabins, all with sea-view and private facilities. The comfortable dining room located on the Upper deck seats all passengers in a single sitting and offers delicious meals with a mixture of table service and buffet. The informal dining arrangement adds to the friendly atmosphere onboard and meals are a great chance to discuss all you have seen with your fellow travellers, and for the expedition team to share their knowledge. 

    Click here for an interactive tour of the ship.

     
    Ocean Nova »

    Ocean Nova

    Ocean Nova, St Kilda

    Panorama Lounge

    Panorama Lounge

    Aft Saloon

    Library

    Category 3 Cabin

    Category 2 Cabin

    Category 2 Cabin

    Category 1 Cabin

    Restaurant

    Restaurant

    On Deck

    Ocean Nova

    • Ocean Nova
      Ocean Nova
    • Ocean Nova, St Kilda
      Ocean Nova, St Kilda
    • Panorama Lounge
      Panorama Lounge
    • Panorama Lounge
      Panorama Lounge
    • Aft Saloon
      Aft Saloon
    • Library
      Library
    • Category 3 Cabin
      Category 3 Cabin
    • Category 2 Cabin
      Category 2 Cabin
    • Category 2 Cabin
      Category 2 Cabin
    • Category 1 Cabin
      Category 1 Cabin
    • Restaurant
      Restaurant
    • Restaurant
      Restaurant
    • On Deck
      On Deck
    • Ocean Nova
      Ocean Nova
    • Your Cabin/Suite

      Your Cabin

      The Ocean Nova accommodates just 84 passengers. Cabins are spread over two decks and include cabins for the single traveller, double and triple cabins, all with sea-view and private facilities. The double cabins have either two lower beds or upper and lower beds. The triple cabins have upper and lower beds. In your cabin you will also find a desk with chair and ample storage space for clothes and equipment. They are well designed with typical Scandinavian light woods.

    • Your Space

      Your Space

      The Panorama lounge  affords excellent views and is the main meeting place where you can enjoy a drink with a breathtaking view of the surrounding landscape. It is here that our expedition team will entertain and educate you with lectures on biology, history, geology or ornithology with daily briefings. There is also a library with panoramic views and a good selection of books on the area you are visiting. On board there is a satellite phone, small gym and medical doctor.When conditions permit, passengers are welcome on the Bridge and there is always something to see or search for from the spacious observation decks.

    • Your Dining

      Your Dining

      The comfortable dining room seats all passengers in a single sitting and offers delicious hearty meals with a mixture of table service and buffet. It is comfortable and spacious enough to accommodate all passengers and expedition staff in one seating, and the portholes allow you to take in your surroundings as you dine. The informal dining arrangement adds to the friendly atmosphere on board and meals are a great chance to discuss all you have seen with your fellow travellers, and for the expedition team to share their knowledge.

    • Life On Board

      Life Onboard

      The atmosphere on board is informal and time on board is often spent out on deck keeping watch for wildlife or admiring the spectacular view. The schedule can change due to weather conditions or unexpected wildlife sightings which adds to the adventure. Daily briefings from our expedition team will prepare you for each day’s activities and experts in subjects such as ornithology or marine biology will give talks and accompany us ashore.

    • For your comfort

      For your comfort

      With one of the highest ice classes (1B) and a 2000 hp diesel engine, Ocean Nova is a small but sturdy expedition vessel just as at home in the icy waters of Svalbard as she is in a tranquil Scottish loch. The ship has a crew of 34, including North European officers, whose prime concern is your safety as well as ensuring wildlife sightings and weather conditions are maximised. For your safety there are two fully enclosed lifeboats and a medical clinic onboard.

    • Ship Directory

      Ship Directory

      {MEDIA GALLERY DEFAULT}

      Please find below further details pertaining to the vessel or click on the booklet to download.

      We are delighted you have chosen the Ocean Nova for your upcoming voyage and hope this information booklet answers any questions you may have pertaining to the vessel.

      SHIP TECHNICAL DETAILS

      Built: 1992 (Denmark)
      Registered: Bahamas
      Draft: 4.5 metres
      Gross tonnage: 2180 tonnes
      Length: 73 metres
      Breadth: 11 metres
      Passenger capacity: 84
      Staff & crew: 32
      Ice class: Ice 1B, EO (Hull Ice 1A)
      Cruising speed: 13 Knots

      AIR-CONDITIONING

      The Panorama Lounge and dining room are air-conditioned and all cabins have outside airflow that can be individually controlled. The ship is heated throughout.

      ALARM

      An alarm will be sounded in the event of an emergency. Please follow the instructions provided on board for what to do should an emergency occur.

      BAR/BEVERAGES

      A bar offering soft and alcoholic drinks is available in the Panorama Lounge. Wine and beverage service is also available in the dining room. Individually purchased drinks consumed throughout your journey should be settled at the end of your voyage. Complimentary tea and coffee are available 24 hours a day in the Bar and Library.

      BRIDGE

      Permission to visit the ship’s Bridge may be requested. Please note this is a working area and access may sometimes be restricted, for example, during manoeuvres or bad weather conditions.

      CABINS

      There are 39 passenger cabins on board, all outside facing and with en-suite bathroom facilities. All cabins have upper and lower beds, however, in twin cabins only the lower beds will be used. Each cabin features a window, mirror, writing table and chair, hairdryer and telephone. All cabins are cleaned daily and towels are changed as required.

      COMMUNICATION

      Telephone: The ship can be contacted by satellite phone (tel: + 870 77306 4426). Passengers will be able to receive and make satellite phone calls via the telephone on the Bridge and the charges will be added to their onboard account. Since all communication by phone or email is through a satellite system, coverage and availability can vary throughout the cruise, depending on the signal. Satellite Internet & Wi-Fi: Wi-Fi is available throughout the vessel and Wi-Fi cards are available to purchase at Reception. Depending on the ship’s location, there may be times when the connection is very slow or is disrupted and the same level of connectivity that you enjoy at home cannot be expected on board.

      CURRENCY

      The currency on board is Euros. Your ship account will be payable at the end of your cruise by cash (in Euros) or credit card (Visa, MasterCard and American Express). Please note that debit cards are not accepted.

      DAILY PROGRAMME

      A Daily Programme, detailing the following day’s arrangements as well as any specific information about the day’s activities is produced on board and delivered to your cabin each evening.

      DIETARY REQUIREMENTS

      If you have any dietary requirements such as vegetarian, low salt, gluten free and low cholesterol, please notify the Reservations Department in advance. We regret that not all dietary requirements can be guaranteed. If you have any specific or special foods that you require we recommend that you take some with you although we will endeavour to accommodate your needs. Once on board, please speak to the Chef.

      INFORMATION DIRECTORY

      Hotel Manager at dinner on your first night to reconfirm your requirements.

      DRESS CODE

      On board the emphasis is on comfortable and casual clothing at all times. It is recommended to wear sturdy shoes with rubber soles or other non-slip soles when moving around inside the ship.

      ELECTRICITY

      The electrical supply aboard ship is 220 volts. AC and outlets take Scandinavian two-prong plugs. We recommend that you take an adaptor with you.

      EMERGENCY & SAFETY PROCEDURES

      Full details of the ship’s emergency and safety procedures will be provided following your embarkation. There is a medical doctor and a first aid station on board.

      FIRE SAFETY

      On your cabin door is a deck plan displaying your closest (and all other) emergency exits. Emergency exits are marked in green and fire extinguishers fitted in all corridors.

      FITNESS ROOM

      An exercise area is available on the Bridge Deck and contains a variety of equipment. If you intend to use the gym please ensure you wear suitable clothing.

      GRATUITIES

      Gratuities have been included in your holiday price.

      HEALTH & HYGIENE

      In order to maintain health standards you will find hand sanitisers at all important contact points around the vessel.

      HOUSEKEEPING

      Your cabin will be cleaned twice a day and you will be provided with a ‘turn down’ service at night. 

      LAUNDRY

      Laundry service is available at an additional charge (price list is available in your cabin). Laundry will be collected in the morning and will be returned to you in approximately two days. Ironing facilities are also available for a fee, however, please note there is no tumble drying or dry cleaning on board.

      LIBRARY

      A small selection of books is available for use on board. A laptop with internet access is available here as well as complimentary tea and coffee.

      LIFT

      There is no lift on board the vessel.

      LOST PROPERTY

      Lost property can be handed in to the ship’s reception. Before you disembark the ship, please check your cabin to ensure you do not leave anything behind. If you discover you have left any items behind, please contact Noble Caledonia directly. If we are able to recover your item(s) we will contact you to arrange delivery or collection and to advise of any associated costs.

      MEALS

      The dining room is located on the Upper Deck and seats all passengers at a single sitting. The chef will serve three meals a day. Breakfast and lunch are buffet style and dinner is a combination of self-service and served items. All tables seat at least five people.

      MOSQUITOES

      Please ensure you take the appropriate precautions to guard against mosquito bites.

      OBSERVATION DECK

      The Observation Deck is available to passengers throughout the sailing. However, please note the deck may have to be closed during periods of inclement weather.

      PAYMENTS ON BOARD

      The vessel operates a signed-chit system whereby no payment is immediately required (the vessel only requiring a signature for your purchase) and, only at the end of the cruise will you be presented with your final itemised bill to settle.

      POST

      The vessel’s crew will be happy to send any post you may have on your behalf (although please note that as they are unable to do so at every port of call, this could take longer than if you were to post yourself).

      QUESTIONNAIRES

      Your comments are important to us therefore before your cruise ends, you will receive a questionnaire. We are always looking for ways to improve your holiday experience and appreciate the time you take to complete the questionnaire.

      RECEPTION

      Reception is staffed during peak hours. You will always be able to contact a member of the crew 24 hours a day.

      SAFE

      A safe is available in the hotel manager’s office for valuables but we recommend leaving valuables at home or keeping them on your person.

      SMOKING

      Smoking within your cabin or any of the vessel’s public areas is strictly prohibited. Designated smoking areas are provided and can be advised by the ship’s reception upon embarkation.

      WATER

      The water on board is safe to drink. There are strategically placed water bottle filling stations where water is additionally filtered for taste and quality

      V.1 JULY 2022

    • Interactive Tour

      Interactive Tour

      Click here for an interactive tour of the ship.

    • Deck Plan
      • Deckplan

         

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    • View all tours
    • Your Cabin/Suite

      Your Cabin

      The Ocean Nova accommodates just 84 passengers. Cabins are spread over two decks and include cabins for the single traveller, double and triple cabins, all with sea-view and private facilities. The double cabins have either two lower beds or upper and lower beds. The triple cabins have upper and lower beds. In your cabin you will also find a desk with chair and ample storage space for clothes and equipment. They are well designed with typical Scandinavian light woods.

    • Your Space

      Your Space

      The Panorama lounge  affords excellent views and is the main meeting place where you can enjoy a drink with a breathtaking view of the surrounding landscape. It is here that our expedition team will entertain and educate you with lectures on biology, history, geology or ornithology with daily briefings. There is also a library with panoramic views and a good selection of books on the area you are visiting. On board there is a satellite phone, small gym and medical doctor.When conditions permit, passengers are welcome on the Bridge and there is always something to see or search for from the spacious observation decks.

    • Your Dining

      Your Dining

      The comfortable dining room seats all passengers in a single sitting and offers delicious hearty meals with a mixture of table service and buffet. It is comfortable and spacious enough to accommodate all passengers and expedition staff in one seating, and the portholes allow you to take in your surroundings as you dine. The informal dining arrangement adds to the friendly atmosphere on board and meals are a great chance to discuss all you have seen with your fellow travellers, and for the expedition team to share their knowledge.

    • Life On Board

      Life Onboard

      The atmosphere on board is informal and time on board is often spent out on deck keeping watch for wildlife or admiring the spectacular view. The schedule can change due to weather conditions or unexpected wildlife sightings which adds to the adventure. Daily briefings from our expedition team will prepare you for each day’s activities and experts in subjects such as ornithology or marine biology will give talks and accompany us ashore.

    • For your comfort

      For your comfort

      With one of the highest ice classes (1B) and a 2000 hp diesel engine, Ocean Nova is a small but sturdy expedition vessel just as at home in the icy waters of Svalbard as she is in a tranquil Scottish loch. The ship has a crew of 34, including North European officers, whose prime concern is your safety as well as ensuring wildlife sightings and weather conditions are maximised. For your safety there are two fully enclosed lifeboats and a medical clinic onboard.

    • Ship Directory

      Ship Directory

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      Please find below further details pertaining to the vessel or click on the booklet to download.

      We are delighted you have chosen the Ocean Nova for your upcoming voyage and hope this information booklet answers any questions you may have pertaining to the vessel.

      SHIP TECHNICAL DETAILS

      Built: 1992 (Denmark)
      Registered: Bahamas
      Draft: 4.5 metres
      Gross tonnage: 2180 tonnes
      Length: 73 metres
      Breadth: 11 metres
      Passenger capacity: 84
      Staff & crew: 32
      Ice class: Ice 1B, EO (Hull Ice 1A)
      Cruising speed: 13 Knots

      AIR-CONDITIONING

      The Panorama Lounge and dining room are air-conditioned and all cabins have outside airflow that can be individually controlled. The ship is heated throughout.

      ALARM

      An alarm will be sounded in the event of an emergency. Please follow the instructions provided on board for what to do should an emergency occur.

      BAR/BEVERAGES

      A bar offering soft and alcoholic drinks is available in the Panorama Lounge. Wine and beverage service is also available in the dining room. Individually purchased drinks consumed throughout your journey should be settled at the end of your voyage. Complimentary tea and coffee are available 24 hours a day in the Bar and Library.

      BRIDGE

      Permission to visit the ship’s Bridge may be requested. Please note this is a working area and access may sometimes be restricted, for example, during manoeuvres or bad weather conditions.

      CABINS

      There are 39 passenger cabins on board, all outside facing and with en-suite bathroom facilities. All cabins have upper and lower beds, however, in twin cabins only the lower beds will be used. Each cabin features a window, mirror, writing table and chair, hairdryer and telephone. All cabins are cleaned daily and towels are changed as required.

      COMMUNICATION

      Telephone: The ship can be contacted by satellite phone (tel: + 870 77306 4426). Passengers will be able to receive and make satellite phone calls via the telephone on the Bridge and the charges will be added to their onboard account. Since all communication by phone or email is through a satellite system, coverage and availability can vary throughout the cruise, depending on the signal. Satellite Internet & Wi-Fi: Wi-Fi is available throughout the vessel and Wi-Fi cards are available to purchase at Reception. Depending on the ship’s location, there may be times when the connection is very slow or is disrupted and the same level of connectivity that you enjoy at home cannot be expected on board.

      CURRENCY

      The currency on board is Euros. Your ship account will be payable at the end of your cruise by cash (in Euros) or credit card (Visa, MasterCard and American Express). Please note that debit cards are not accepted.

      DAILY PROGRAMME

      A Daily Programme, detailing the following day’s arrangements as well as any specific information about the day’s activities is produced on board and delivered to your cabin each evening.

      DIETARY REQUIREMENTS

      If you have any dietary requirements such as vegetarian, low salt, gluten free and low cholesterol, please notify the Reservations Department in advance. We regret that not all dietary requirements can be guaranteed. If you have any specific or special foods that you require we recommend that you take some with you although we will endeavour to accommodate your needs. Once on board, please speak to the Chef.

      INFORMATION DIRECTORY

      Hotel Manager at dinner on your first night to reconfirm your requirements.

      DRESS CODE

      On board the emphasis is on comfortable and casual clothing at all times. It is recommended to wear sturdy shoes with rubber soles or other non-slip soles when moving around inside the ship.

      ELECTRICITY

      The electrical supply aboard ship is 220 volts. AC and outlets take Scandinavian two-prong plugs. We recommend that you take an adaptor with you.

      EMERGENCY & SAFETY PROCEDURES

      Full details of the ship’s emergency and safety procedures will be provided following your embarkation. There is a medical doctor and a first aid station on board.

      FIRE SAFETY

      On your cabin door is a deck plan displaying your closest (and all other) emergency exits. Emergency exits are marked in green and fire extinguishers fitted in all corridors.

      FITNESS ROOM

      An exercise area is available on the Bridge Deck and contains a variety of equipment. If you intend to use the gym please ensure you wear suitable clothing.

      GRATUITIES

      Gratuities have been included in your holiday price.

      HEALTH & HYGIENE

      In order to maintain health standards you will find hand sanitisers at all important contact points around the vessel.

      HOUSEKEEPING

      Your cabin will be cleaned twice a day and you will be provided with a ‘turn down’ service at night. 

      LAUNDRY

      Laundry service is available at an additional charge (price list is available in your cabin). Laundry will be collected in the morning and will be returned to you in approximately two days. Ironing facilities are also available for a fee, however, please note there is no tumble drying or dry cleaning on board.

      LIBRARY

      A small selection of books is available for use on board. A laptop with internet access is available here as well as complimentary tea and coffee.

      LIFT

      There is no lift on board the vessel.

      LOST PROPERTY

      Lost property can be handed in to the ship’s reception. Before you disembark the ship, please check your cabin to ensure you do not leave anything behind. If you discover you have left any items behind, please contact Noble Caledonia directly. If we are able to recover your item(s) we will contact you to arrange delivery or collection and to advise of any associated costs.

      MEALS

      The dining room is located on the Upper Deck and seats all passengers at a single sitting. The chef will serve three meals a day. Breakfast and lunch are buffet style and dinner is a combination of self-service and served items. All tables seat at least five people.

      MOSQUITOES

      Please ensure you take the appropriate precautions to guard against mosquito bites.

      OBSERVATION DECK

      The Observation Deck is available to passengers throughout the sailing. However, please note the deck may have to be closed during periods of inclement weather.

      PAYMENTS ON BOARD

      The vessel operates a signed-chit system whereby no payment is immediately required (the vessel only requiring a signature for your purchase) and, only at the end of the cruise will you be presented with your final itemised bill to settle.

      POST

      The vessel’s crew will be happy to send any post you may have on your behalf (although please note that as they are unable to do so at every port of call, this could take longer than if you were to post yourself).

      QUESTIONNAIRES

      Your comments are important to us therefore before your cruise ends, you will receive a questionnaire. We are always looking for ways to improve your holiday experience and appreciate the time you take to complete the questionnaire.

      RECEPTION

      Reception is staffed during peak hours. You will always be able to contact a member of the crew 24 hours a day.

      SAFE

      A safe is available in the hotel manager’s office for valuables but we recommend leaving valuables at home or keeping them on your person.

      SMOKING

      Smoking within your cabin or any of the vessel’s public areas is strictly prohibited. Designated smoking areas are provided and can be advised by the ship’s reception upon embarkation.

      WATER

      The water on board is safe to drink. There are strategically placed water bottle filling stations where water is additionally filtered for taste and quality

      V.1 JULY 2022

    • Interactive Tour

      Interactive Tour

      Click here for an interactive tour of the ship.

    • Deck Plan
      • Deckplan

         

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