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Off The Map: Antarctica, Southern Ocean & South Sandwich Islands | Ocean Victory

* Save 10% discount valid on cabin category C or higher for 2024/25 season on selected departures.     
* Discount per person valid for sale until 31 AUG 23, Not combinable with any other promotion.      
Offers apply to new bookings only. Cabins are subject to availability and currency fluctuations. Further conditions apply

23 Days
From AUD 29,895

Trip Code: ACABVOTM

DIFFICULTY RATING: 2 (light adventure)

Start: Ushuaia, Argentina

Finish: Ushuaia, Argentina

SHIP: Ocean Victory

DestinationDestination

Antarctic Peninsula, Antarctic Sound, Falkland Islands, South Georgia & South Sandwich Islands

DestinationDeparture Date

18/12/2024

MealsMeals

All meals Onboard the Ship

TransportTransport

Arrival Transfer Shuttle To The Ship & Departure Shuttle Transfer from the Ship

TransportAccommodation

Cabin on board ship



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OVERVIEW

Join this 23-day Southern Ocean expedition journey where you'll see fascinating and off-the-beaten-path locations, from the untamed Falkland Islands to the infrequently visited South Sandwich Islands. The never-ending features, locations, and attractions of this grand tour make each day an amazing experience. This Southern Ocean expedition trip is the most comprehensive we've ever taken, jam-packed with uncountable highlights, attractions, and landmarks. Cruise by towering glaciers and glistening icebergs as you pass through the spectacular Antarctic Sound. Admire the active penguin colonies on the Antarctic Peninsula and take in the South Shetland Islands' unbridled power of nature. This is your chance to go out on a journey unlike any other, one that is full of unforgettable discoveries. You won't regret it, so come on board and let us show you the beauty of the Southern Ocean.

This is a once-in-a-lifetime trip to some of the most alluring and inaccessible locations on the planet. We set off for the interesting Falkland Islands from Ushuaia, Argentina. We'll explore this extraordinary location with Zodiac landings, unforgettable wildlife encounters, and the chance to discover the islands' distinctive capital city, Stanley, as well as its charming English architecture and pristine, protected beaches. The next stop is South Georgia Island, one of the seven natural wonders of the world. Be prepared to visit Shackleton's final resting site as well as beaches teeming with animals, active research camps, and former whaling operations. We will continue to the infrequently visited South Sandwich Islands where we will see volcanic vistas unlike anything else on earth with our cameras firing on all cylinders and memory cards brimming with brand-new photographs. You'll really feel like an adventurer because very few people have ever been to these isolated islands. Next, we'll focus on the Antarctic Peninsula and the South Shetland Islands. We'll make amazing Zodiac landings and immerse ourselves in the splendour of this natural photographer's paradise, which includes penguin rookeries, research stations, and fascinating lookouts. Depending on the weather, we'll attempt as many shore landings as we can each day to give you a close-up view of Antarctica's breathtaking splendour. We'll spend our final few days bird watching from the upper deck and attending lectures, seminars, and photo recaps in one of the ship's lounges as we say goodbye to the Antarctic. We'll travel back to Ushuaia, Argentina, via the formidable Drake Passage with experiences that will last a lifetime. Join us and discover the wonder of the Southern Ocean for yourself on this adventure you won't want to miss.

 

 

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.

*Not combinable with any other promotion. Offers apply to new bookings only. Cabins are subject to availability and currency fluctuations. Further conditions apply, please contact us for more information.
PLEASE NOTE: Pricing is subject to change and availability at the time of booking. Contact us for more information.
*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.

ITINERARY

Arrival & Embarkation in Ushuaia

Arrive and embark in Ushuaia, Argentina - the world’s southernmost city. Explore bustling downtown, or the laid-back local countryside. Alternatively, consider a day trip off the beaten path into the raw, untamed nature of Tierra del Fuego. Ushuaia is a hiker's paradise with rugged snow-capped mountains, glaciers, flower-filled meadows and ancient forests.

Albatros Expeditions’ modern expedition vessel Ocean Albatros awaits in port, and guests will embark the ship by mid-afternoon. Albatros Expeditions arranges transfers from the city center to the ship. After being shown to your stateroom you will be given the mandatory safety briefing, while the captain gets ready to steer out into the South Atlantic Ocean.

Our journey begins as we navigate through the tranquil Beagle Channel, the strait marking the Chile-Argentina border in the Tierra del Fuego Archipelago.

At Sea - Approaching Falkland Islands

During our time at sea, a variety of activities will be arranged on board which will provide the perfect opportunity to socialize with your passionate fellow travelers. Enjoy the fascinating lectures by our onboard Expedition Team, visit our shop, or indulge in the vessel’s purpose-built leisure facilities, designed to provide a comfortable, relaxing day whatever you choose to do.

Falkland Islands & Port Stanley - Days 3 & 4

As we arrive in the Falkland Islands we will deploy our Zodiacs for the first landing of our voyage, landing in the sparsely inhabited and nature-rich western part of the archipelago.

On the following day we will cast anchor and Zodiac ashore in the sheltered natural harbor of Stanley, a quaint and very British outpost in the south Atlantic. The city is walkable, with colorful houses and cozy pubs lining the streets. This tiny capital has plenty on offer to visitors, from rugged scenery, local history and culture to excellent shopping and locally brewed beers. Wildlife watchers could encounter the endemic flightless steamer duck in the harbour, as well as the delicate dolphin gull, while fur seals are often found snoozing on our landing pier.

At Sea - Approaching South Georgia- Days 5 & 6

Heading due East, expect the vessel be followed by numerous black-browed albatross and giant petrels. As we cross the Antarctic convergence the quantity of wildlife will increase; a variety of whale and dolphin species and a plethora of seabirds can be expected in these cold nutrient-rich waters. We will pass Shag Rocks on our way to South Georgia where huge flocks of seabirds feed on krill in between large packs of fur seals. Join your onboard Expedition Team to hear about the species and ecology of this unique region.

South Georgia - Days 7 to 10

The forbidding glacier-clad peaks of South Georgia will be the setting for the next days of our expedition. Lying in the Southern Ocean below the Antarctic convergence, these frigid seas are teeming with life. The island, often referred to as “The Galapagos of the Poles”, can only be reached by ship. There is no permanent human settlement (other than visiting scientists and conservationists), but penguins, seabirds and seals breed in the millions. The difficulty of accessing this remote outposts and the regulations in place to protect the delicate environment makes South Georgia one of the least-visited tourist destinations in the world. Once a global whaling capital, today the island has been left to recover from human over-exploitation, and intensive conservation efforts have resulted in dramatic increases in whale, and bird populations. The itinerary and activities over the next couple of days are largely dependent on the weather and the sea conditions, which dictate all aspects of life here; your onboard team will work hard to ensure you can experience the best of South Georgia’s unparalleled nature.

Potential landing sites include Salisbury Plain, home to one of the largest king penguin colonies on the island, estimated to number up to half a million birds. At this time of the year the beaches will also be crowded with plenty of young and very curious Antarctic fur seals as well as hulking southern elephant seals.

Another possible landing site is Prion Island, a reserve for the wandering albatross. The site is closed until the end of January to protect the breeding birds, and visiting late in the season allows us unique access. This is one of the few sites where one can observe these gentle giants (with the largest wingspan of any bird) up close. Gentoo penguins, giant petrels and Antarctic prions also breed on the island.

The British administration at Grytviken is also a popular stop. Once a Norwegian whaling station specializing in industrialized slaughter, Grytviken now serves as the hub of island conservation, and the preserved ruins of the whaling station and the excellent South Georgia Museum offer a unique glimpse into the island’s industrial past. Legendary explorer Ernest Shackleton (whose heroism is synonymous with the island) is buried in the small graveyard – a fence keeps out the ever-present penguins and seals. The endemic South Georgia pipit and South Georgia pintail may be seen around the buildings; once almost eradicated, these birds have benefitted hugely from the eradication of rats on the island, and these endemic birds are now once again a common sight.

At Sea - Approaching South Sandwich Islands

Leaving the jagged peaks of South Georgie behind, we venture further East towards the South Sandwich Islands, the least visited part of the British Overseas Territory of South Georgia. While these remote seas can be rough, the unique backward sloping bow of Ocean Albatros and her efficient stabilizers reduces vibration and wave action, ensuring a comfortable crossing. En route to the next set of remote islands, you will have plenty of time to edit your photos of the wildlife and stunning landscapes from the first half of the voyage. Our onboard photographer will offer you help, tips and tricks to improve your picture taking and editing skills. Guests can attend high quality lectures on geology, meteorology, ornithology, marine mammals as well as the exploration history of the Southern Ocean. From the upper decks you can study the albatrosses, petrels and shearwaters taking advantage of the ship to hunt for food in the vast emptiness of the South Atlantic.

South Sandwich Islands - Days 12 to 14

Arriving at the South Sandwich Islands, we are now truly off the edge of the map. This string of active volcanoes is one of the most remote and seldom visited parts of the South Atlantic, some islands going years between visits by ships of any type. The South Sandwich Islands are exposed to the raw fury of the Southern Ocean, and wind, sea and ice conditions will dictate the exact itinerary of our time in these islands.

The South Sandwich Islands exist at the edge of the tectonic plate underlying the Drake Passage; here, Earth’s surface crumples, producing this string of active volcanos, punching out of the ocean in an arc. Plumes of ash and smoke are commonly seen from these boiling rocks, and the ash-striated glaciers and tortured rocks of the volcanoes form the backdrop to our days exploring.

Conditions on the islands are frequently challenging, but your skilled Captain and Expedition Leader will work hard to maximise your opportunities to explore these isolated outposts. Exploration possibilities include witnessing the largest penguin colony outside Antarctica on the shores of Zavodovski Island, seeing ice boulders and ash-marbles glaciers on Saunders Island, or watching vast seal colonies cavort in the ruins of the wartime Argentine station on Thule Island. Everywhere on the South Sandwich Islands, wildlife abounds; the islands hold the majority of the world’s chinstrap penguins, vast numbers of other bird species and huge seal colonies. From the southern end of the island chain, we will strike out southwest towards the Antarctic continent.

At Sea - Approaching Antarctica - Days 15 & 16

Leaving the South Sandwich Islands behind we will cross the 60th parallel south, signaling our departure from British Overseas Territories and into the jurisdiction of the Antarctic Treaty. While we have been in the Antarctic region for several days, we now enter true Antarctic waters. Expect to see brutal steel-grey seas, soaring giant petrels, and vast icebergs studding the sea on our journey to the Antarctic Peninsula. During our time at sea, a variety of activities will be arranged on board, providing the perfect opportunity to socialize with fellow travelers. As the white shimmer of Antarctica looms on our horizon, the volume of wildlife will increase tenfold with lively penguins, inquisitive seals, and the plumes of whales inviting us on towards the ice.

Antarctic Sound, Antarctic Peninsula & South Shetl

Over the coming days, we will begin our exciting Antarctic experience at the very tip of the Continent. The itinerary and activities over the next few days will depend on weather and ice conditions. The route and shore landings will be determined by the Captain and Expedition Leader and communicated to the guests through regularly scheduled briefings. Wildlife abounds on the Antarctic Peninsula: leopard, fur, crabeater and Weddell seals are common throughout the peninsula; humpback whales come to feed in the rich waters of the Gerlache Strait; penguin colonies cling to rocky outcrops warmed by the sun, and orcas hunt for prey in the frigid depths. Our program in Antarctica will aim to include a mixture of sites to give guests the best possible range of experiences; these may include historical sites, wildlife colonies, or areas with particularly spectacular scenery.

At Sea - Approaching Ushuaia

Today, we depart Antarctica and spend two days at sea on our way back to the calmer waters of the Beagle Channel and Ushuaia, Argentina. En route, we will cross the Drake Passage and cruise past Cape Horn, a legendary maritime landmark and the southern tip of South America. During our time at sea, a variety of activities will be arranged on board providing the perfect opportunity to dwell on some of the fantastic moments we have witnessed during this exceptional voyage.

Ushuaia Disembarkation

After a hearty farewell to the vessel and crew, we disembark Ocean Victory in Ushuaia, departing with memories of the voyage of a lifetime across the Southern Ocean.

DOWNLOAD ITINERARY PDF
Ocean Victory

Ocean Victory

The latest in Albatros Expeditions fleet, the new luxury Ocean Victory is one of the most modern ships operating in the Antarctic region. With a total of 93 cabins, most with ocean views to provide an incredible visual experience when sailing through some of the most pristine environments in the world. The Ocean Victory is built with unique technologies and sturdy construction; the 'X-bow' provides high stability in rough weather conditions and some of the smoothest movement on high waves. 

Similar to other vessels in its class, the Ocean Victory was built in mind with a strong focus on sustainability, in an attempt to preserve the unique environments through which it sails. A low-energy vessel, the Victory has 4 diesel engines and 2 electro engines, all controlled electronically to optimize speed as well as minimise fuel consumption. Holding just 189 passengers this vessel proposes an intricate focus is a unique blend of comfort and sustainability. 

Ice Class: Length: 104m / 341ft
Breadth: 18m / 59ftMax
Draft: Cruising
Speed: 16 Knots
Electricity: Passenger
Capacity:
146-200

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Accommodation

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.

Standard

Comfortable properties with dependable facilities and service.

Superior

Comfortable properties with dependable facilities and service.

Deluxe

Luxurious properties with impeccable facilities and service.

Departing Ending Duration From Price
18 Dec 2024 09 Jan 2025 23 AUD 29,895
Cabin Type From Price
CAT G - Single Cabin AUD 49,995
CAT F - Triple Porthole AUD 29,895
CAT E - French Balcony Stateroom AUD 42,895
CAT D - Porthole Stateroom AUD 39,295
CAT C - Balcony Stateroom SAVE UP TO 10%AUD 41,576
CAT B - Balcony Suite SAVE UP TO 10%AUD 45,716
Cat A - Junior Balcony Suite SAVE UP TO 10%AUD 64,526
CAT PS - Polar Premium Suite SAVE UP TO 10%AUD 72,536

Important Information

  • INCLUSIONS

    Cabin accommodation on board vessel
    All meals whilst on board
    Complimentary house wine, beer and soda at dinner (selected labels and brands, served at our a-la-carte dinners)
    Ushuaia shuttle transfers to ship from city centre (embarkation) / from the ship to city centre or airport (disembarkation, morning)
    All scheduled landings and excursions
    Complimentary use of rubber boots during course of voyage 
    All luggage handling on board ship 
    All miscellaneous service taxes and port charges
    Group transfer Ship to local airport/luggage facility on disembarkation day

     

    EXCLUSIONS 

    International flights
    Passport and Visa fees (if applicable) 
    Excess baggage fees on international flights
    Mandatory waterproof pants for Zodiac landings and excursions 
    Laundry, bar, spa services and other personal charges, unless specified
    Voluntary gratuity at the end of the voyage for expedition staff and shipboard crew
    Any additional overnight accommodation 
    Arrival and departure transfers, except where explicitly stated

  • 2 (light adventure)
  • Available upon request for some cabin categories on select departures, contact us for more details.

  • Prices are based on per person, twin share* (unless otherwise stated for triple/quad cabins) 

    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

  • Departure date,  fuel surcharges, cabin category, currency fluctuations, seasonality and availability.

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