DATES / RATES
Rates are listed per person in USD. Promotional offers are not reflected in the rates below.
|
Start Date | End Date | Category F | Category G | Category E | Category D | Category C | Category C SP | Category C XL | Category B | Category A | Polar Premium Suite |
Nov 03, 2025 | Nov 17, 2025 | 12,495 | 18,295 | 15,395 | 14,595 | 15,795 | 16,695 | 17,495 | 18,295 | 26,595 | 29,995 |
Rates are listed per person in USD. Promotional offers are not reflected in the rates below.
|
Start Date | End Date | (Starting from) Category F | (Mid-range) Category C SP | (High-end) Polar Premium Suite |
Nov 03, 2025 | Nov 17, 2025 | 12,495 | 16,695 | 29,995 |
ITINERARY
DAY
1
EMBARKATION,
MONTEVIDEO, URUGUAY
The
city of Montevideo sits at the mouth of the Rio de la Plata, the vast
estuary which holds not one but two capital cities (the vast Argentine
capital of Buenos Aires being just across the water). Montevideo is a
bustling yet laid back city, where locals sip yerba mate strolling
along the sea front, and the smell of asado barbeque drifts on the
ocean breezes.
At
the heart of the city lies the harbour, where Ocean Albatros awaits.
After our mandatory safety drill, our expedition begins as we navigate
through the calm waters of the Rio de la Plata. Soak up the sun on the
outer decks as we leave South America behind, setting a course towards
the Falkland Islands (Islas Malvinas).
DAY
2-4
AT
SEA, EN ROUTE TO THE FALKLAND ISLANDS
Following
the ocean currents of the South Atlantic, we head towards the
rarely-visited Falkland Islands (Islas Malvinas).
While
the indigenous Yaghan people of Tierra del Fuego may have visited the
islands, the Falkland Islands had no indigenous population when
Europeans arrived in the early 16th Century. The islands' sovereignty
has been contested ever since, with historical Spanish, French, British
and Argentine claims. Tensions resulted in a conflict over the islands
between Britain and Argentina in 1982, which left a lasting impact on
the islands. While it spurred much-needed development assistance from
the United Kingdom, the conflict also left much of the islands heavily
mined. Since the conflict however, the islands have flourished, selling
lucrative fishing rights to their rich waters. The de-mining operation
was completed in 2020, celebrated by a football match on the last patch
of de-mined ground between the islands' Governer and the Zimbabwean
de-mining team who have made the Falklands their home.
The
waters around the Falklands are some of the richest in the world, with
huge whale, seal and penguin populations feeding where cold Antarctic
waters meet the warmer waters of the South Atlantic, so keep binoculars
at the ready! Otherwise, join your Expedition Team lecturers to hear
about these islands' fascinating history, biology and unique 'Kelper'
(as the locals call themselves) culture.
DAY
5-6
WESTERN
ISLANDS AND PORT STANLEY
On
our first day in the Falklands we will venture to some of the outer
islands in the West Falklands - 'Camp', as the locals call the area
outside Stanley. The outer islands of the Falklands are much wilder and
more remote than the mainland, and host the majority of the islands'
wildlife. Islands such as West Point, Carcass and Saunders are well
known for their spectacular wildlife. Southern Rockhopper Penguins,
Black-Browed Albatross and King Cormorants commonly nest together in
vast cliffside colonies; penguins nurture their eggs and chicks in
clefts between large cylindrical nests where cormorants and albatross
nest. Be sure to look out above to see the vast albatross coming in to
land (often less than gracefully)! The islands are home to a vast
number of other bird species such as the endearingly cheeky Striated
Caracara (watch all unattended possessions), and in the water
Commerson's dolphins and South American sealions can be seen playing.
During
the following morning we will cast anchor in the sheltered natural
harbor of Port Stanley in the early afternoon. Utilizing our Zodiacs,
we will land in the centre of this small city. Stanley is the only
settlement on the islands of any size, with a population of around two
thousand people. Behind the colourful buildings in neat rows, look
closer and you will notice a very distinctly British feel to Stanley -
Victorian houses which could be on any swanky London terrace line the
harbourfront; red telephone and post boxes stand by the jetty;
whitewashed pubs serve fish and chips alongside foaming pints of ale.
The Falkland Islanders are proud of their unique homeland and capital,
and Stanley is a great place to explore and soak up the local vibe.
Highlights in the city include Christchurch Cathedral, the southernmost
Anglican cathedral on Earth, as well as excellent shops selling local
products (watch out for high quality woollen good in particular!),
cafes and pubs offering a warm welcome, and several excellent museums;
visitors are spoiled for choice! A short drive or a pleasant walk from
the city are several stunning beaches; formerly heavily mined, these
are now open, and locals and foreigners alike often visit to see the
abundant penguins and spectacular gold-white sands.
DAY
7-8
AT
SEA - CROSSING THE DRAKE PASSAGE SOUTHBOUND
Sailing
onward from Stanley, we cross the infamous 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 Furious 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!
We
will cross into the Antarctic Convergence on our second day at sea from
the Falkland Islands - watch the mercury plummet as we sail southwards
into Antarctic waters, an abrupt cooling that marks the intersection of
Antarctic waters with the warmer waters of the Atlantic and Pacific
Oceans. As the sea cools, wildlife multiplies; these are some of the
most biologically productive water on Earth, so expect to see petrels,
albatrosses and potentially penguins, seals and whales in abundance.
DAY
9-11
THE
ANTARCTIC PENINSULA
We
will awake on the ninth day of our expedition to the glittering ice
cliffs and drifitng icebergs of the Antarctic Peninsula. Our exact
route will be subject to careful planning by the Expedition Leader and
Captain, and explained to our guests through regular evening briefings.
However we will aim to visit a range of sites which showcase the best
of this staggeringly beautiful region.
Consisting
of the 'spine' of the Antarctic Peninsula and a large number of
mountainous glaciated islands, the Gerlache Strait is what comes to
mind when most people think of Antarctica, and will likely be the
setting for our time in Antarctica. 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.
Wherever we go on the Antarctic Peninsula, endemic wildlife,
tantalising history and breathtaking natural beauty abound.
On
Antarctica, all human activity is subject to the whims of Mother
Nature. While we will make every possible effort to maximise
opportunities for exploration off the vessel, the safety of our guests
and crew is our top priority. We therefore ask all our guests to join
the expedition spirit and be flexible - harsh weather offers the
opportunity to expand your knowledge of Antarctica with lectures from
our expert Expedition Team, or to enjoy the superlative comfort of our
vessels, be it wine-tasting, relaxing in the hot tubs, or recharging
with a relaxing massage in our Polar Spa.
DAY
12
THE
SOUTH SHETLAND ISLANDS
Our
time in Antarctica concludes in the South Shetland Islands. This chain
of rugged rocks marks the northernmost point of Antarctica, and the
most exposed to the fury of the Southern Ocean. Because of this, it is
also one of the richest in terms of wildlife, with large Gentoo and
Chinstrap Penguin colonies, and an abundance of large seabirds such as
predatory Giant Petrels. The epic ice-clad mountains of Livingstone,
Greenwich and King George Islands form a spectacular backdrop to an
otherwise stark landscape.
Sites
which may be visited in the South Shetland Islands include the black
steaming sands and rusting ruins of Deception Island (an active
volcanic crater), the bustling penguin colonies of Aitcho and Half Moon
Islands, or the old sealers' anchorage of Yankee Harbour.
From
the South Shetland Islands, we will venture back into the Drake
Passage, setting a course for Uhsuaia, Argentina.
DAY
13-14
AT
SEA - CROSSING THE DRAKE PASSAGE NORTHBOUND
After
departing Antarctica, we will 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.
DAY
15
USHUAIA,
ARGENTINA - DISEMBARKATION
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.
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.
MV Ocean Victory (Luxury Expedition, 184-guests)
Ocean Victory joined our fleet in November 2021 and was established as one of the most modern small ship vessels in the market. This stylish cruise ship is ideally suited for our business model of small ship expeditions and is deployed and dedicated to varied Antarctic region voyages.
With a total of 93 comfortable staterooms for our guests, all with a view of the ocean, (and 90% with their own balcony), several restaurants, a wellness area, an Albatros Nordic Bar, an open deck dining facility, a modern lecture lounge, and other amenities, the vessel is also environmentally-friendly onboard, with an implementation of the Green Initiative Program, ensuring both absolute comfort and sustainability for our guests.
(Click image to view Ship details)
WHAT'S INCLUDED
- 15-day cruise with accommodation in a shared double
stateroom featuring ensuite facilities
- Embarkation shuttle transfer to the vessel from Montevideo
city centre
- Shuttle transfer after disembarkation from the ship to
Ushuaia city centre or airport
- All Zodiac landings and 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!
Excluded
from this voyage
- 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 16 per person per day)
- Personal expenses (e.g. Albatros Polar Spa services,
Albatros Ocean Boutique purchases)
- Anything not mentioned under 'Inclusions'
ADVENTURE OPTIONS
- Photography
- Lectures
- Kayaking
- Wildlife Observations
- Zodiac