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Expedition North Atlantic, A True Arctic Adventure | Ocean Albatros

12 Days
From USD 8,790

Trip Code: ACABENA

DIFFICULTY RATING: 2 (light adventure)

Start: Reykjavík, Iceland

Finish: Oslo, Norway

SHIP: Ocean Albatros

DestinationDestination

Iceland, Jan Mayen Island & Svalbard

DestinationDeparture Date

05/06/2024

TransportAccommodation

Cabin Onboard a Ship



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OVERVIEW

This trip offers the ideal opportunity to take in the beauty of the Arctic's early summer. In some of the planet's northernmost islands, you can anticipate stunning landscapes.

We leave Iceland's volcanic wonderland and board the contemporary ship in Reykjavik to begin our amazing journey towards the high Arctic. We have scheduled landings at the amazing three Arctic islands of Iceland (Grimsey), Jan Mayen, and Spitsbergen along the journey. Our first few days will take us around the rugged coastlines of Iceland's western and northern regions. Visits to the renowned "Iceland in miniature," Snaefellness, and the sizable fjord, Safjarardjp, are scheduled. Before reaching the glaciated islands of Svalbard, we intend to call on the mysterious island of Jan Mayen from this location. We travel in the early summer, when migratory birds are abundant and the light never sets. We will search the pack ice for polar bears engaged in seal hunting as we get closer to Svalbard. On our high Arctic adventure voyage among whales, walruses, and millions of sea birds, the spring and early summer give us the chance to take in the tremendous beauty of Svalbard.

ITINERARY

Reykjavik Embarkation

Our journey begins in Iceland where MV Ocean Albatros is moored in Reykjavik. Boarding is in the afternoon, where the cabins are designated. After the mandatory security review and drill, we set our course north towards Iceland's west coast.

Iceland - The West Coast

In the morning, we sail along the 100-kilometre long peninsula Snaefellsnes, which with its dramatic cliff coast, hardened lava floods, sandy beaches and volcanic peaks, is a picture of Iceland in mini-format.

We round the nest on the peninsula and can enjoy the view of the nearly 1,500-metre-high snow-covered volcano, Snæfellsjökull, which was the centre of Jules Verne's novel, "The Journey To The Center Of The Earth". The volcano with the almost perfect cone shape and the surrounding area became in 2001 the Snæfellsjökull National Park.

We will attempt a landing at Snaefellsnes.

In the afternoon we will pass Iceland’s westernmost point and the huge bird cliffs of Latraberg.

Iceland - Rugged Northwest Coast With Isafjordur

In the morning, we sail around Iceland's rugged West Fjords, possibly into Isafjardardjúp to enjoy the view of the steep mountains and see the terrific aerobatics of the Arctic terns.

During the day as we leave Isafjardardjúp and sail towards the West Fjords, which always offer one unforgettable experience after another. We finish the day sailing along the coast of Hornstrandir, the northernmost part of the West Fjords. From here, there are only 300 kilometres to the eastern coast of Greenland. In 1975, the area was converted into nature reserves, and currently has some of the strictest rules to protect the peculiar and fragile nature. Along the coast, there are good opportunities to see whales and seals, and the mountainside is alive with the rich bird life. We continue as we pass Hornvik Bay, which is considered one of the most beautiful places in Iceland, where we can see two of the largest bird cliffs in Europe where millions of seabirds breed.

We continue along the northern coast towards Siglufjordur and Grimsey.

Iceland - Crossing the Arctic Circle at Grimsey

In the afternoon, we will have arrived at the island of Grimsey, which is located about 40 kilometres from the mainland and is the only part of Iceland with an Arctic designation. The Polar circle crosses the island at 66 ° 33 'N, and gives the island one full day of 24-hour sunlight every year in June.

Over 100 inhabitants reside in the little rocky island, all living close to the harbour in the only city on the island. The fishing banks in the surrounding seas make the economy flourish, the port is expanded, and there is a small airport with daily flights to the mainland and a school for the children. The island has been inhabited right back from the settlement of Iceland and is mentioned in the sagas as an important land, rich in fish and birds.

The seabirds far exceed the number of inhabitants on Grímsey, and bird cries can be heard 24 hours a day over the bright Arctic summer. Up to 36 different species breed on the island and have their nests on the rocks. One of Iceland's largest tern colonies is here, and it is said that the runway must be cleared for terns before the aircraft can land.

We’ll attempt landing by Zodiacs to experience the local life and explore the island's bird life.

At Sea En Route To Jan Mayen

During our voyage, our lecturers onboard will make inspiring and enriching presentations about Arctic history and nature, wildlife and climatology.

Jan Mayen - At The Foot Of Beerenberg Volcano

Approximately in the middle of the North Atlantic lies the enigmatic volcanic island of Jan Mayen. And if not exactly in the middle, at least it is located precisely on the Mid Atlantic Ridge, the reason for its volcanic existence. And enigmatic it is, not only because of its isolation but also due to the almost perpetual clouds and fog that hovers above it. Jan Mayen belongs to Norway, and the mountain, Beerenberg is one of the higher of Norway’s 300 summits above 2,000 metres.

The island is inhabited by only 18 persons, running the meteorological station and the Norwegian Defense. We will try to go ashore at the narrowest part of the island, from either south or north, depending on the prevailing wind and surf. The volcanic origin is visible all over with cinder cones, lava flows and the Mount Fuji-like appearance of Beerenberg looming above.

At Sea En Route To Svalbard Looking For Seabirds,

Listen to a lecture from our experienced expedition staff, see a film about Arctic nature, or go out on deck to catch glimpses of migrating birds and hopefully some whales.

Svalbard In Sight - In Search Of Whales

We are getting closer towards the islands of Svalbard, but we will first spend some time southwest of the islands - around the continental shelf. This area is rich in krill and gives us the best chance of spotting whales feasting.

During the night the ship will sail north along the coast of Spitsbergen.

NY Ålesund & NY London

We enter the beautiful Kongs Fjord, renowned for its former mining settlement and captivating beauty. Our first destination is Ny Ålesund - a scientific research centre situated even further north than Longyearbyen, though it can be argued whether this constitutes an actual town. Our captain will do their best to bring the boat close to the shore, allowing us to explore the area on foot.

Our next destination is the abandoned marble mining settlement of Ny London. It experienced a brief but eventful existence, beginning in a flurry of mining activity reminiscent of the Klondike Gold Rush before being crippled by wars and financial losses just nine years later. We can still see the remains of workshops, locomotives, and cranes that tell the story of the ambitious yet failed enterprise.

FormerWhaling Station At Smeerensberg & Ytre Norsk

We have now entered North West Svalbard, which was declared a national park in 1973. The day could begin with a cruise in Danskergattet, looking for seals in Virgohamna, before crossing from Danskøya to Amsterdamøya to make a landing at Smeerenburg, the legendary whaling town of the 17th century. 200-plus men were living – and quite often dying – here in the heyday of blubber production.

There are several interesting places to visit in this northwestern corner of Spitsbergen. If conditions allow, we’ll make a landing on Ytre Norskøya, where whalers would have their lookout posts.

Isfjorden & Longyearbyen

Located on the west side of Spitsbergen, Isfjorden is the second-longest fjord of the Norwegian archipelago, Svalbard. At the fjord entrance stand Alkhornet and Daudmannsøyra, a coastal plain. Parts of Isfjorden is included in the Nordre Isfjorden Land National Park of Norway. It is surrounded by several large settlements in Svalbard, including Barentsburg, Longyearbyen (on the Adventfjorden) and Pyramiden.

We aim to have a final landing along the coast, before we navigate towards Longyearbyen. We might land at Longyearbyen by evening.

Remnants of former mining stations can be seen along the way.

Longyearbyen, Spitsbergen Disembarkation

Early in the morning, the ship is at anchor outside Longyearbyen. After breakfast and farewell greetings to the expedition team and crew, disembarkation will take place.

DOWNLOAD ITINERARY PDF
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.

Departing Ending Duration From Price
05 Jun 2024 16 Jun 2024 12 USD 0
Cabin Type From Price
CAT G - Single Stateroom Porthole SOLD OUT
CAT F - Triple Stateroom Porthole SOLD OUT
CAT E - French Balcony Stateroom SOLD OUT
CAT D - Porthole Stateroom SOLD OUT
CAT C - Balcony Stateroom SOLD OUT
CAT B - Balcony Suite SOLD OUT
CAT A - Balcony Junior Suite SOLD OUT
CAT FS - Freydis Premium Balcony Suite SOLD OUT
CAT BS – Brynhilde 2BR French Balcony Suite SOLD OUT

Important Information

  • INCLUSIONS
    Cabin accommodation on board vessel
    Charter Flight Post Tour: Longyearbyen-Oslo
    Local transport in Longyearbyen on day 12
    All meals whilst on board
    Dinner Drinks Package
    Guiding and lectures by experienced expedition crew
    All scheduled landings and excursions by zodiac
    Landing fees
    Pre and post cruise and ferry transfers
    Digital visual journal link after the voyage, including voyage log, gallery, species list, and more

     

    EXCLUSIONS

    International Flights (except mentioned above)
    Transfer to the ship in Reykjavik
    Extra excursions and activities not mentioned in the itinerary
    Meals not on board the ship
    All items of a personal nature
    Customary gratuities for staff/crew
    Any pre or post cruise accommodation 
    Any pre or post cruise travel extensions 
    Travel insurance

  • 2 (light adventure)
  • Available on request for some cabin categories. Subject to availability. 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.