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Antarctic Circle & South Shetland Islands | Ocean Albatros

11 Days
From AUD 16,090

STYLE: Small Ship Expedition Cruise

Trip Code: ACABOASS

DIFFICULTY RATING: 2 (light adventure)

Start: Ushuaia, Argentina

Finish: Ushuaia, Argentina

SHIP: Ocean Albatros

DestinationDeparture Date

10/01/2024

TransportAccommodation

Cabin on board ship



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OVERVIEW

On this 11-day expedition, you will begin the journey by crossing the infamous Drake Passage, known for rollicking conditions and strong westerly winds. While this passage may be challenging, you can rest confidently aboard the Ocean Albatros, which is purpose-built with stabilizers to ensure comfort in rough seas. After weaving through the South Shetland Islands, you will reach the Great White Continent and its magnificent landscapes, glacial mountains and wildlife. Zodiac excursions to spot whales and seals, and hikes to a number of manned and unmanned research stations ensue before we accomplish our goal – crossing the Antarctic Circle at 66°33′ south. Here, the sun is up for 24-hours a day during the austral summer. Dense pack ice forbids many ordinary vessels from reach this far south, but with a high ice-class rating, Ocean Albatros moves swiftly carrying us on an adventure for life.

 

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

Embarkation Ushuaia

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, Ocean Victory.

Our journey begins as we navigate through the calms of Beagle Channel, a strait in the Tierra del Fuego Archipelago.

At Sea - Cross Drake Passage - Day 2 & 3

In the Drake, the excitement builds as Antarctic wildlife comes into view with our first sight of seals, penguins, and albatrosses. As well as the first icebergs as we approach the South Shetland chain of islands.

With the unique X-BOW design, the Ocean Victory will offer you a smoother sailing across the Drake passage than conventional expedition vessels – and with a far less carbon emission.

South Shetland Islands - Day 4 & 5

Over the next two days, we will explore to the sub-Antarctic islands of the South Shetland chain.

Projected landfalls could include: King George Island; Deception Island, an extinct volcano; Half Moon Island with nesting Wilson's storm petrels and chinstrap penguins.

The itinerary and activities over the next few days depend on weather and ice conditions. The route and shore landings will be determined by the captain and expedition leader and communicated to guests through regularly scheduled briefings.

Antarctic Peninsula - Day 6 to 8

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. Explore as far south as possible towards 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. We will also visit research stations if ice conditions allow us.

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.

Depart Antarctica - At Sea - Day 9 & 10

Today, we depart Antarctica and spend two days at sea on our way back to the calms of Beagle Channel and Ushuaia, Argentina. En-route, we will cross 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, and it provides the perfect opportunity to socialize with fellow travellers.

Disembarkation in Ushuaia

This morning, we arrive back in Ushuaia where our tour ends.

DOWNLOAD ITINERARY PDF

WHY CHOOSE THIS CRUISE?

  • Undertake this voyage on board the Ocean Albatros one of the latest polar expedition vessels. Featuring unique X-Bow technology and spacious suites this vessel offers an extremely comfortable expedition experience. 

  • Experience a truly incredible array of wildlife including fur and Weddell seals, humpback whales, elephant seals and a wide array of curious penguin species.

  • Explore the Great White Continent's magnificent landscapes, glacial mountains, and incredible wildlife before reaching 66°33′ – the Antarctic Circle.

Ocean Albatros

Ocean Albatros

Deploying in November 2022 the Ocean Albatros will feature the latest in X-Bow hull technology. With a total of 95 comfortable staterooms and suites, all with unobstructed views, the Ocean Albatros will be 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 will provide 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 will also come 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

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.

OPTIONAL ACTIVITIES

Optional Activities vary for each itinerary. Limited spaces available. Contact your Destination Specialist for pricing & availability.

Kayaking

Experience the unforgettable thrill and serenity of kayaking in Antarctica as part of a small, expertly guided paddling group.

Learn More

Photography

For photography enthusiasts of any skill level. You will receive expert advice on taking and producing amazing photos of Antarctica.

Learn More
Departing Ending Duration From Price
10 Jan 2024 20 Jan 2024 11 AUD 16,090
Cabin Type From Price
CAT G - Single Stateroom Porthole AUD 25,190
CAT F - Triple Stateroom Porthole AUD 16,090
CAT E - French Balcony Stateroom AUD 20,690
CAT D - Porthole Stateroom AUD 20,290
CAT C - Balcony Stateroom AUD 22,990
CAT B - Balcony Suite AUD 25,990
Cat A - Junior Balcony Suite AUD 34,990
CAT FS - Freydis Premium Balcony Suite AUD 39,590
CAT BS – Brynhilde 2BR French Balcony Suite SOLD OUTAUD 43,790

Important Information

  • INCLUSIONS

    11-days/10 nights cruise with accommodation in a shared double cabin featuring ensuite facilities
    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
    Port and authority fees and taxes

    EXCLUSIONS

    Extra excursions and activities not mentioned in the itinerary
    Single room supplement and cabin 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’

  • 2 (light adventure)
  • Contact us for more details.

  • Please note this itinerary may be subject to change depending on weather and ice conditions. 

  • Departure date, seasonality and availability.