Ocean Nova is a modern and comfortable expedition vessel. She was built in Denmark in 1992 to sail the ice-choked waters of Greenland. She was fully refurbished in 2006 and has since benefitted from annual upgrades and improvements. Her ice-strengthened hull is ideally suited for expedition travel in Antarctica.

Ocean Nova has capacity for 72 passengers accommodated in comfortable outside cabins. The ship offers three categories of accommodation: dedicated Single cabins, Twin cabins, and Triple cabins, and all cabins feature a picture window, a writing desk with chair, a wardrobe, individually controlled heating system, and a private bathroom. 

In addition to a glass-enclosed observation lounge and presentation room, Ocean Nova also has a spacious dining room, a bar, a library, a small gym, and an infirmary. The ship has a fleet of 7 Zodiac boats that are well suited for disembarking and wildlife watching.