The Ultimate Antarctica Experience
12 Days - Ocean Albatros
On this 12-day ultimate Antarctica cruise, we explore the Great White Continent's magnificent landscapes, glacial mountains, and incredible wildlife. This adventure is unique since we have NO SET ITINERARY, which makes this a true exploration voyage.
from USD $10475 $6597pp
Book by 30th November 2024
Home » 12 Day Ocean Albatros: The Ultimate Antarctica Experience
Itinerary Highlights
- Spot sea birds, albatross and several species of whale as you cross the Drake Passage
- Weave your way through the South Shetland Islands sighting ice-covered islands and dormant volcanoes
- Keep an eye out for whales, sea lions, elephant seals and an unbelievable amount of sea birds and penguins
- Head out on hikes and Zodiac excursions daily, weather permitting
Itinerary in Brief
- Day 1: Arrive in Ushuaia and embark
- Day 2-3: Cross the Drake Passage
- Day 4-9: Antarctic Peninsula
- Day 10-11: At Sea
- Day 12: Arrive in Ushuaia and disembark
Day 1: Embarkation
Arrive in Ushuaia, Argentina - the world’s southernmost town. Explore the quaint city or local countryside. Alternatively, consider a day trip off the beaten path to the raw, natural archipelago of Tierra del Fuego. It's a hiker's paradise with rugged snow-capped mountains, glaciers, flower-filled meadows and boggy quagmires. In the afternoon, we board our ship.
Our journey begins as we navigate through the calms of Beagle Channel, a strait in the Tierra del Fuego Archipelago.
Day 2-3: At Sea - Cross the Drake Passage
Sailing onward, we cross the famed Drake Passage - a body of water that marks the intersection of the cold Antarctic with the warmer Atlantic and Pacific Oceans. Drake Passage is known for strong westerly winds, heavy sea, and its nickname ‘The Roaring Fifties’. While this passage may be challenging, you can rest confidently aboard our expedition vessel, Ocean Victory/Albatros, which is purpose-built with stabilizers, powerful engines and a highly qualified crew. The most spirited sailors consider Drake Passage a lifetime achievement – and soon you can tick it off on the list yourself! In the Drake, the excitement builds as Antarctic wildlife comes into view with our first sight of seals, penguins and albatrosses. Having crossed the Drake, we will explore the sub-Antarctic islands of the South Shetland chain and be marveled by the captivating landscapes we will encounter along the way. Weather permitting, we hope to make our first landfall on King George Island before continuing further south to the tip of the Antarctic Peninsula.
With the unique X-BOW design, the Ocean Albatros will offer you a smoother sailing across the Drake passage than conventional expedition vessels – and with far less carbon emission. Due to the speed of the vessel, we might be able to do a first landing or activity in the South Shetland Islands on the afternoon of day 3, weather permitting.
Day 4-9: Antarctic Peninsula
As the white shimmer of Antarctica looms on our horizon, the presence of wildlife multiples by tens of thousands with many species of lively penguins, inquisitive seals, nesting birds and the spray of marine mammals.
Wildlife abounds on the Antarctic Peninsula: leopard, fur and Weddell seals of Cuverville Island; humpback whales of Gerlache Strait; Paradise Bay; the dramatic Lemaire Channel's orcas. Maybe we will explore as far south as the Antarctic Circle at c. 66 deg 33 minutes south of the Equator. Possible landfall in this wild and seldom visited area could be Pleneau and Petermann Islands, Crystal Sound and Detaille Island.
Maybe we will make our way to the Antarctic Sound, named in 1902 by the Swedish vessel Antarctic, the captain and the expedition team would then keep a watchful eye on the mighty tabular icebergs, born from the floating Larsen Ice Shelf further south. We would aim to have both continental and island landings on the shores of Antarctic Sound and Weddell Sea, always on the lookout for some of the unusually large penguin colonies, which have recently been observed.
Because of the considerable sea ice and enormous bergs in the Weddell Sea, navigation through this remote nature is at the edge of what is possible; your captain and expedition leader are well aware that shifting ice means that no individual part of this area can be guaranteed as accessible at any time, so they will work together to find the most magnificent opportunities. This is part of the wonder of this part of the world, and you'll be visiting an area few humans have ever seen.
The Weddell Sea takes its name from the early British explorer James Weddell, who by hunting seals through a break in the ice in 1823 got to the southernmost point at his time. As we enter the Weddell Sea of today, we grow accustomed to giant floating icebergs and witness the sheer quantity of sea ice in these waters. Apart from penguins, the wildlife here includes Weddell and elephant seals and seabirds. Humpbacks feed in the nutrient-rich waters (caused by the upwell of cold water from the ocean depths), so there are opportunities to see whales, as well as the Antarctic’s largest predator, the solitary leopard seal.
The itinerary and activities over the next few days depend on weather, swell and ice. The route and shore landings will be determined by the captain and expedition leader and communicated to guests through regularly scheduled briefings.
Maybe as our journey draws to a close we end it by navigating to Elephant Island, home to elephant seals, maybe even along parts of the same route as Shackleton’s daring lifeboat escape (this route is only possible if conditions allow it!). While a landing is unlikely, we hope to see where the Elephant island party waited for rescue boat to reach them at Point Wild. A famous part of expedition history, that seems adequate to end our Antarctic explorations this time around.
There is no set itinerary on this trip, which allows our staff onboard to maximize the experience for all onboard. Whilst our suggestions above are just possible routes and landings, we can be sure that this will be the ultimate Antarctic experience.
Day 10-11: At Sea
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. Skål!
Day 12: Disembark in Ushuaia
This morning, we arrive back in Ushuaia for the conclusion of our expedition cruise, where you can continue your adventures or begin your return home.
Dates | Cabin | From | Special Offer |
---|---|---|---|
15 Dec 2024 - 26 Dec 2024 | USD $6597pp | Save 40% | |
Triple Porthole Cabin (F) | USD $6597pp | Save 40% | |
Albatros Stateroom Cabin (D) | USD $8637pp | Save 40% | |
French Balcony Suite (E) | USD $9417pp | Save 40% | |
Balcony Stateroom Cabin (C) | USD $10137pp | Save 40% | |
Single Porthole Cabin (G) | USD $11157pp | Save 40% | |
Balcony Suite (B) | USD $11217pp | Save 40% | |
Junior Suite (A) | USD $15717pp | Save 40% | |
Premium Freydis Suite | USD $17637pp | Save 40% | |
Family Brynhilde Suite | USD $20157pp | Save 40% | |
08 Feb 2025 - 19 Feb 2025 | USD $10475pp | ||
Triple Porthole Cabin (F) | USD $10475pp | Contact us | |
Albatros Stateroom Cabin (D) | USD $13655pp | Contact us | |
French Balcony Suite (E) | USD $14895pp | Contact us | |
Balcony Stateroom Cabin (C) | USD $15995pp | Contact us | |
Single Porthole Cabin (G) | USD $17695pp | Contact us | |
Balcony Suite (B) | USD $17775pp | Contact us | |
Junior Suite (A) | USD $24965pp | Contact us | |
Premium Freydis Suite | USD $27995pp | Contact us | |
28 Feb 2026 - 11 Mar 2026 | USD $10995pp | ||
Triple Porthole Cabin (F) | USD $10995pp | Contact us | |
Albatros Stateroom Cabin (D) | USD $12795pp | Contact us | |
French Balcony Suite (E) | USD $13495pp | Contact us | |
Balcony Stateroom Cabin (C) | USD $13895pp | Contact us | |
C SP, Superior Balcony Stateroom | USD $14595pp | Contact us | |
C XL, Grand Balcony Stateroom | USD $15295pp | Contact us | |
Single Porthole Cabin (G) | USD $16095pp | Contact us | |
Balcony Suite (B) | USD $18195pp | Contact us | |
Junior Suite (A) | USD $23295pp | Contact us | |
Family Brynhilde Suite | USD $26195pp | Contact us | |
Premium Freydis Suite | USD $26195pp | Contact us |
Until end of ANT season 24/25:
- Cat. C and Cat A can be converted into triple staterooms. Third person in the same stateroom is at 50% off.
- Cat C and Cat F: Solo guests of the same gender can share the stateroom to avoid paying single supplement.
From Arctic season 2025 onwards:
- Cat. C-SP and Cat A can be converted into triple staterooms. Third person in the same stateroom is at 50% off.
- Cat C-SP and Cat F: Solo guests of the same gender can share the stateroom to avoid paying single supplement.
**Prices are per person based on twin / shared accommodation.
**Single supplements may apply
Cabin Details
Single Porthole Cabin (G)
14 m2
Standard single Stateroom onboard, located on deck 3. This is a conveniently located State Room close to the Mudroom which facilitates access to the Zodiacs during embarkation and disembarkation to begin your adventures.
All stateroom types contain a safety box, television, refrigerator, several 230 W power and USB outlets—additionally, bathrobes, slippers, toiletries (body wash, lotion, shampoo) and a hairdryer are also included.
Triple Porthole Cabin (F)
22 m2
Solo guests of the same gender can share this stateroom to avoid paying single supplement.
There are two Triple Staterooms on board Ocean Albatros featuring portholes, all with private en-suites. Located on Deck 3, they're close to the mudroom and loading platforms.
Triple staterooms are normally with twin beds however a double bed can be accommodated.
All stateroom types contain a safety box, television, refrigerator, several 230 W power and USB outlets—additionally, bathrobes, slippers, toiletries (body wash, lotion, shampoo) and a hairdryer are also included
French Balcony Suite (E)
14 m2
The French Balcony Stateroom is a standard Stateroom with a French balcony, a double bed, floor-to-ceiling windows and a bathroom. All French Balcony Staterooms are located on Deck 7.
All stateroom types contain a safety box, television, refrigerator, several 230 W power and USB outlets—additionally, bathrobes, slippers, toiletries (body wash, lotion, shampoo) and a hairdryer are also included.
Albatros Stateroom Cabin (D)
13-22 m2
The standard Stateroom on Ocean Albatros is close to the Mudroom and has quick access to the Zodiac platforms for disembarkation during landings. This is very convenient if you have more limited mobility and would like a short distance to the Zodiacs. The State Rooms are perfect for those who wish a comfortable base during their stay onboard Ocean Albatros. The standard State Rooms all have a double bed or 2 single beds and a bathroom. The State Rooms are located on deck 3 and 4.
Please note the cabin layout and size may vary.
All stateroom types contain a safety box, television, refrigerator, several 230 W power and USB outlets—additionally, bathrobes, slippers, toiletries (body wash, lotion, shampoo) and a hairdryer are also included.
Balcony Stateroom Cabin (C)
18-22 m2
This stateroom can be converted into a Triple stateroom with the third person sleeping on a sofa bed. Third person will have 50% discount. Valid until end of Antarctica season 2024/2025. From Arctic season 2025, this will apply to Stateroom C-SP.
Solo guests of the same gender can share this stateroom to avoid paying single supplement.
The most abundant type of Stateroom on Ocean Albatros is located on decks 4 & 6. They have a balcony, a double bed or two single beds, a bathroom.
Several of the Balcony Staterooms also include a seating area complete with a table and chair. Additionally, a select few of the Balcony Staterooms are equipped with a sofa that can serve as a bed for a third occupant.
If you prefer to book two staterooms with connecting doors, this is possible under this category upon request.
All stateroom types contain a safety box, television, refrigerator, several 230 W power and USB outlets—additionally, bathrobes, slippers, toiletries (body wash, lotion, shampoo) and a hairdryer are also included.
Balcony Suite (B)
25-32 m2
Ocean Albatros has 6 Balcony Suites on board located on decks 4 & 6. The suites feature double or twin beds and a seating area, bathroom, and a large balcony. The balcony suites can host 2 people.
Two of the Category B Balcony Suites are larger in size and are equipped with HCP facilities, such as larger bathrooms and easy-access doorways.
All stateroom types contain a safety box, television, refrigerator, several 230 W power and USB outlets—additionally, bathrobes, slippers, toiletries (body wash, lotion, shampoo) and a hairdryer are also included.
Junior Suite (A)
39 m2
This stateroom can be converted into a Triple stateroom. Third person will have 50% discount.
The 4 junior suites aboard Ocean Albatros have a great view from their location high up on the ship on deck 7.
The suites feature a double bed or twin beds, sofa bed, seating area, a spacious bathroom and a private balcony. The suite can accommodate up to 3 people.
All stateroom types contain a safety box, television, refrigerator, several 230 W power and USB outlets—additionally, bathrobes, slippers, toiletries (body wash, lotion, shampoo) and a hairdryer are also included.
Premium Freydis Suite
45 m2
The second largest of all the staterooms on board the Ocean Albatros is the Premium Suite. This 2-bedroom suite features a double bed (or twin beds), a sofa bed, table and chair, a balcony and a spacious bathroom. Located on deck.4.
All stateroom types contain a safety box, television, refrigerator, several 230 W power and USB outlets—additionally, bathrobes, slippers, toiletries (body wash, lotion, shampoo) and a hairdryer are also included.
Family Brynhilde Suite
50 m2
The largest of all the staterooms on board the Ocean Albatros is the Family Suite. The Double-Bedroom, Family Suite is located on Deck 7, featuring two interconnecting French Balcony Suites, accommodating up to 5 people on two double beds and a sofa bed.
All stateroom types contain a safety box, television, refrigerator, several 230 W power and USB outlets—additionally, bathrobes, slippers, toiletries (body wash, lotion, shampoo) and a hairdryer are also included.
C SP, Superior Balcony Stateroom
App. 24 smq, incl. Balcony. Featuring an additional seating area or sofa bed.
From Arctic season 2025, this stateroom can be converted into a Triple stateroom with the third person sleeping on a sofa bed. Third person will have 50% discount.
C XL, Grand Balcony Stateroom
App. 30 smq, incl. Balcony. Extra-large cabins, now incorporating the two wheelchair-accessible cabins from the current Category B's.
Ocean Albatros Deckplan
Specifications
- Year Built: 2020
- Passengers: 186
- Crew: 100
- Length: 104.4m
- Breadth: 18.4m
- Draft: 5.1m
Whats included?
- • 12-day/11-night cruise with accommodation in a stateroom with private facilities
- • Shuttle transfers to ship from city centre/from the ship to city centre or airport (Ushuaia)
- • All Zodiac landings and excursions as per itinerary
- • Expedition parka
- • Rubber boot rentals
- • Guiding and lectures by our expedition leader and team
- • Special Photo Workshop
- • English-speaking expedition team
- • Visual Journal link after voyage including voyage log, gallery, maps, species list and more!
- • Full board on the ship - breakfast, lunch, dinner and afternoon snacks
- • Free tea and coffee 24 hours’ daily
- • Welcome and farewell cocktails
- • Taxes
What’s not included?
- • Extra excursions and 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 14 per person per day)
- • Personal expenses
- • Anything not mentioned under ’Inclusions’
Notes
Optional Activities:
- (K) Kayaking Experience USD345 (once during the voyage)
- (S) Snowshoeing Experience USD225 (Subject to Snow conditions Nov - Jan)
- (C) Camping Experience USD395 (Subject to conditions, selected voyages Nov - Jan)
- (P) Photography Program USD1,095
- Premium Upgrade to deck 6 (payable extra)