Antarctica expert Greg Carter, formerly of Chimu Adventures and Albatros Expeditions, is reentering the expedition cruise arena, and with Terra Nova he’s determined to bring back the raw spirit of early exploration.

While the new offering is only just starting to make waves, it has been close to two decades in the making, Carter told LATTE.

“It’s about going back to the heart of real expedition travel; small ship, big soul,” he said. “Terra Nova is for people who want to experience Antarctica and the sub-Antarctic islands the way the early explorers might have imagined: immersive, intimate, and with a strong cup of coffee in hand.”

While his vision was clear, the journey to bring Terra Nova to life has been anything but easy. “This idea has been living rent-free in my head since I first set foot in Antarctica back in 2007/2008,” he shared.

But it wasn’t till much later, after years at Chimu and mentorship from industry pioneers, that the dream finally took shape. “It’s been a year and a half of spreadsheets, spreadsheets, and… more spreadsheets, mixed with a few ‘what are we doing?’ moments.”

Launching a company during turbulent global times posed its own obvious challenges, but beyond that, it was the finer details that proved trickiest. “Navigating the red tape, contracts, financing, and finding partners who get the vision – that’s been the trick,” he said, adding that he thrives under such pressure. “I’ve always believed if it’s too easy, it’s probably boring.”

Designed for anyone concerned that expedition travel is becoming increasingly polished and predictable, Terra Nova has a simple mission. “Guests are craving real again,” Carter stressed. “They’re tired of cookie cutter luxury. They want purpose, personality, and something with a bit of edge.”

Terra Nova aims to deliver just that – not just an itinerary, but a “true story”, grounded in responsibility. “There’s a huge opportunity to show that responsible tourism isn’t just a tagline – it’s a way of operating”, he added.

So what sets Terra Nova apart? “We’re not another mega-yacht with a spa menu longer than some rough sea days on the Drake Passage,” Carter quipped. “After all, the destination is the luxury in this part of the world.”

Instead, the company offers small, curated expeditions. With its vessel RMS St Helena carrying a maximum of 98 passengers, that means “more time ashore, deeper connection, and fewer people photobombing your penguin shots.”

It also promises an exciting world-first – day sailing in Antarctica on a six-passenger yacht, and the industry’s first cruise/sail itineraries for those craving real adventure.

Lessons from the past have helped Carter assemble a lean, purposeful crew, handpicked for their grit and love for the ice. “Big organisations equal big problems,” he reflected. “This time, we’re not trying to be everything to everyone — just something exceptional for those who get it.”

With launch in full swing, the website now live and cabins opening for booking, Terra Nova is ready to deliver “the trip of a lifetime.” “Let’s just say this isn’t my first zodiac ride,” Carter said.