STYLE: Small Ship Expedition Cruise
Trip Code: ACABAAE
DIFFICULTY RATING: 2 (light adventure)
Start: Ushuaia, Argentina
Finish: Ushuaia, Argentina
SHIP: Ocean Albatros
Antarctica, Antarctic Peninsula
19/02/2025
All meals onboard the ship including Complimentary house wine, beer & soda at dinner (selected labels & brands, served at our a-la-carte dinners)
Group Transfers To/From The Ship From Downtown Ushuaia (or airport after disembarkation)
Cabin on board a ship
Daily Antarctica Excursions, Zodiac Cruising, Onboard Expert Lectures & Briefings by the Experienced Expedition Team
NOTE: Itinerary is subject to change depending on weather & ice conditions
Spot penguins from your zodiac or hiking in Antarctica. Common species on the peninsula are the Gentoo, Chinstrap and Adelie penguins.
Cruise by Zodiacs amongst the beautifully sculpted icebergs and take excursions from the ship to explore local bays, channels and landing sites
Deployed in November 2022 the Ocean Albatros features the latest in X-Bow hull technology. With a total of 95 comfortable staterooms and suites, all with unobstructed views, the Ocean Albatros is one of the most popular expedition vessels in polar waters.
Our longest Antarctica-only cruise, the 13-day Antarctica Explorer, will take us to the Great White Continent's breathtaking beauty, glacier-covered peaks, and extraordinary wildlife. Get ready for the ultimate Antarctic trip as we head off, we'll cruise across the quiet, calm waters of the Beagle Channel and take in the breathtaking views of slope glaciers. But as we cross the fabled Drake Passage, where the warmer Atlantic and Pacific Oceans meet the icy Antarctic, the true adventure starts. Get ready for an exciting voyage as we cross this fabled body of water, which is famed for its wild weather and powerful westerly winds known as the Roaring Fifties.
Fear not, though, since our ship was designed with stabilisers, strong engines, and a revolutionary reclining bow that offers comfort and stability in choppy seas while consuming very little gasoline. Even the most experienced sailors consider crossing the Drake Passage a once-in-a-lifetime accomplishment, and you'll get to do it twice! Prepare to be astounded by the quantity of seabirds, albatrosses, and several whale species as we navigate these nutrient-rich seas. If the conditions are right, we might even see seals and penguins. Keep a watch out for whales, sea lions, elephant seals, a staggering number of seabirds, and penguins as we go through the South Shetland Islands, a sparkling chain of ice-covered islands and dormant volcanoes.
UPGRADE to a Premium Deck Category C Cabin (Deck 6) - Book a Category C Cabin on an Antarctica voyage & pay an extra Upgrade Fee to enjoy the benefits of the Premium Category C Cabin on Deck 6. Along with the benefits of a higher deck cabin with an enclosed balcony, you will also be eligible for priority boarding & suite amenities (like daily replenished mini-bar, welcome fruit basket & sparkling wine). Subject to availability & upgrade must be booked at time of booking. Please contact us for more details and full Terms and Conditions.
*30% Off Discount Special Deals on selected 2024/25 Antarctica season departures. This offer applies only to new bookings and cannot be combined with any other promotions, discounts, or group deals. The sale ends on 31 August 2024. Pricing and availability is subject to change and offer and may be withdrawn or varied at any time.
*Prices are correct at time of publishing but are subject to change based on availability, currency exchange and other factors. Please contact us for live availability and prices.
Arrive in Ushuaia, Argentina - the world’s southernmost city. Explore this vibrant Patagonian city, or stretch your legs in the surrounding forests. Alternatively, consider a day trip off the beaten path into the raw nature of Tierra del Fuego. The island of Tierra del Fuego is a hiker's paradise with rugged snow-capped mountains, glaciers, flower-filled meadows and rich boggy wetlands. In the afternoon, we board our vessel, waiting to welcome us in port.
After our mandatory safety drill, our expedition begins as we navigate through the calm waters of the famous Beagle Channel (named for Charles Darwin's ship). This steep-sided strait divides southern Tierra del Fuego between Chile and Argentina, and has been the jumping-off point for thousands of expeditions into the unknown. Watch out for whales and dolphins as we sail off the edge of the map into the tempestuous Drake Passage.
Sailing onward, we cross the famed Drake Passage - the body of water separating Patagonia and the Antarctic Peninsula. The Drake Passage is known for rollicking conditions and strong westerly winds, nicknamed the Roaring Fifties. While this passage may be challenging, you can rest comfortably aboard our expedition vessels, which are purpose-built with stabilizers, powerful engines and manned by a highly-qualified crew. The most spirited sailors consider Drake Passage a lifetime achievement - and you will complete the crossing twice!
Our days in the Drake Passage will be put to good use preparing for our arrival in Antarctica - your Expedition Leader will brief you comprehensively on how to stay safe and minimise your impact on this precious wilderness, as well as briefing you thoroughly on our plans for our time spent exploring, including hints and tips for wildlife watching. Our dedicated Expedition Team will assist you to biosecure your clothing and equipment (a vital process to protect Antarctica's delicate ecology), as well as sharing tailored lectures on Antarctic exploration history, wildlife, geology, glaciology and more!
With no set itinerary in Antarctica, this voyage offers adventurous travellers the chance to experience Antarctica as it was meant to be - flowing with the wind, sea and ice, and taking the best opportunities Mother Nature provides. This voyage departs in the first half of the brief Antarctic summer, when sea ice is at its maximum - this offers us ample opportunities to explore in the icy wilderness of the last continent. Our exact route will be subject to careful planning by the Expedition Leader and Captain - however we will aim to visit a range of sites which showcase the best of this staggeringly beautiful region.
Marvel at the massive icebergs and vast glaciers on a Zodiac cruise in Paradise Bay. Be moved by penguins tenderly caring for their precious eggs, and fiercely defending their nests on Cuverville Island. Watch cataracts of ice tumble into clear blue ocean on a hike over the active glaciers of Neko Harbour. Experience the Antarctica of old at historic huts such as Damoy Point, lovingly restored and open to all. Feel the spray of water from the blow of a humpback whale on a Zodiac safari in Wilhelmina Bay. Wonder at awe-inspiring scenery on a ship cruise through the Lemaire Channel. Watch city-sized tabular icebergs drift silently past the ship in the Antarctic Sound. Wherever we go on the Antarctic Peninsula, endemic wildlife, tantalising history and breathtaking natural beauty abound.
This time of year, expect to see penguins carefully tending their fluffy chicks, while their partners frantically hunt for food at sea. As the snow melts, opportunities for hiking onshore increase. Antarctic fur seals start to arrive in their summer feeding grounds, and humpback whale numbers increase as more of these gentle giants arrive at the end of their long migration. With luck, we may even see the young of these gentle giants. Perhaps the ice will retreat far enough to allow us access to the unknown islands south of the Antarctic circle - where the midnight sun never sets.
We eventually depart Antarctica, and spend two days at sea on our way northwards back across the infamous Drake Passage towards the more welcoming shores of the Beagle Channel and Ushuaia, Argentina. During our time at sea, a variety of activities will be arranged on board to provide our guests with the chance to reflect on their voyage. Relax with an expertly crafted cocktail in the Nordic Bar in the company of new friends, soak up the knowledge and passion of our Expedition Team during lectures in the Shackleton Lounge, or simply enjoy the flight of the albatross which accompany us northwards.
During your last evening onboard, join the Captain and Officers for the Farewell Cocktail Party, followed by a presentation of photos and video by our onboard photographer - the ideal opportunity to re-live your Antarctic adventure.
On the morning of the final day of our voyage, we will arrive back at the pier of Ushuaia, Argentina. Trees, grass and a busy city may seem strange to you after the white wilderness of Antarctica! After a hearty breakfast, it is time to bid a fond farewell to the Crew and Albatros Expedition Team, and descend the gangway back to dry land with memories of the voyage of a lifetime.
Undertaking it's first sailing in 2023 the Ocean Albatros features the latest in X-Bow hull technology. With a total of 94 comfortable staterooms and suites, all with unobstructed views, the Ocean Albatros is one of the most popular expedition vessels in polar waters. Featuring two restaurants, a wellness area, Nordic bar, an open deck dining facility, modern lecture lounge and a number of other state-of-the-art amenities, the Albatros provides the ultimate expedition experience. Boasting 50% less emissions than traditional polar vessels, the Albatros provides peace of mind in regard to comfort and sustainability for our guests. The Albatros also comes with a unique panorama sauna and a total of 12 dedicated solo travel cabins without single supplement.
Ice Class:
Length: 104.4m
Breadth: 18.4mMax
Draft: Cruising
Speed:
Electricity: Passenger
Capacity:189
View Ship Details
We believe that appropriate accommodation should add to the authentic travel experience, as well as providing utmost enjoyment. For that reason our accommodation is scrutinised by our staff on the ground frequently, ensuring the properties adhere to our high standards. This key will help you understand the levels of accommodation available on this tour.
Comfortable properties with dependable facilities and service.
Comfortable properties with dependable facilities and service.
Luxurious properties with impeccable facilities and service.
Antarctica Explorer | Ocean Albatros from USD 8,117 | ||
Departing | Ending | Duration |
---|---|---|
19 Feb 2025 | 03 Mar 2025 | 13 |
Prices are based on per person, and may be based off quad/triple/ or twin share cabins* (please contact us for more details)
Prices are correct at time of publishing but are subject to change at any time.
Itinerary is subject to change depending on weather and ice conditions.
Stateroom accommodation on board during your voyage
Embarkation shuttle transfer to the vessel from Ushuaia city centre
Shuttle transfer after disembarkation from the ship to Ushuaia city centre or airport
All Zodiac excursions, as per itinerary, guided by our Expedition Team
Expedition parka
Rubber boots loan scheme
Briefings and lectures by our Expedition Leader and Team
English-speaking Expedition Team
Full board on the ship - breakfast, lunch, dinner and snacks
Complimentary house wine, beer and soda at dinner (selected labels and brands, served at our a-la-carte dinners)
Free tea and coffee available 24 hours
Taxes and landing fees
Special photo workshops
Welcome and Farewell Cocktail Parties
Digital visual journal link distributed after the voyage, including voyage log, gallery, species list and more!
International or internal flights flights
Extra excursions and optional activities not mentioned in the itinerary
Single room supplement and stateroom upgrades
Meals not on board the ship
Beverages (other than coffee and tea)
Tips for the crew (we recommend USD 16 per person per day)
Personal expenses (e.g. Albatros Polar Spa services, Albatros Ocean Boutique purchases)
Mandatory waterproof pants for Zodiac landings and excursions
Laundry, bar, and other personal charges, unless specified
Travel and medical insurance (compulsory)
Pre or post cruise travel expenses
Visa (if applicable) and passport fees
Fuel surcharge may be applied to all bookings
Anything not mentioned under 'Inclusions'
Available on request. No single supplement if willing to share (select cabins only). Contact us for more details.
Departure Date, Fuel Surcharges, Cabin Category, Currency Fluctuations, Seasonality & Availability.