HIGHLIGHTS
- Cross
the mighty Drake Passage en-route to the South Shetland Islands
- Delve
deep into the inlets and bays of the Antarctic Peninsula, entering the
famous Gerlache Strait, where glittering ice cliffs and precipitous
peaks rise straight out of the frigid water
- Explore
the mighty tabular icebergs of the Antarctic Sound and enter the
icebound wilderness of the Weddell Sea in search of wildlife
- Follow
the route made famous by legendary explorer Sir Ernest Shackleton, who
sailed the 1300 km course through treacherous seas to save his stranded
crew
- Visit
South Georgia, one of the world’s greatest natural wonders
with
vast penguin colonies, seal-filled seas and albatross-packed skies
- Venture
into wildlife-packed beaches, nature-reclaimed whaling stations and
perhaps even a visit to Shackleton’s final resting place
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 B | Category A | Freydis Polar Premium Suite | Brynhilde Family Suite |
|---|
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 | (High-end)
Brynhilde Family Suite |
|---|
ITINERARY
DAY
1: ARRIVAL IN USHUAIA, EMBARKATION
Arrive
in Ushuaia, Argentina - the world’s southernmost city.
Explore this vibrant Patagonian city, or stretch your legs in the
surrounding forests. Alternatively, consider a day trip off the beaten
path into the raw nature of Tierra del Fuego. The island of Tierra del
Fuego is a hiker's paradise with rugged snow-capped mountains,
glaciers, flower-filled meadows and rich boggy wetlands. In the
afternoon, we board our vessel, waiting to welcome us in port.
After
our mandatory safety drill, our expedition begins as we navigate
through the calm waters of the famous Beagle Channel (named for Charles
Darwin's ship). This steep-sided strait divides southern Tierra del
Fuego between Chile and Argentina, and has been the jumping-off point
for thousands of expeditions into the unknown. Watch out for whales and
dolphins as we sail off the edge of the map into the tempestuous Drake
Passage.
DAY
2-3: AT SEA - CROSSING THE DRAKE PASSAGE SOUTHBOUND
Sailing
onward, we cross the famed 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 Roaring
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 the third day of our
voyage - 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.
Weather permitting, we may be able to make landfall in the South
Shetland Islands (a small but spectacular archipelago to the north of
the Antarctic Peninsula) on the afternoon of our second day in the
Drake Passage, marking the start of our exploration on the Last
Continent.
DAY
4-6: SOUTH SHETLAND ISLANDS & THE ANTARCTIC PENINSULA
Over
the next days, we will enjoy a safe and exciting Antarctic experience
explorers of yesteryear could only dream of.
Our
Antarctic adventure begins in the South Shetland Islands, a chain of
rugged rocks marking the northernmost point of Antarctica. 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. Landing 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.
The
following days will be spent exploring further south on the Antarctic
Peninsula in the Gerlache Strait region. This region is typically icy,
so 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
glaciated and mountainous islands, the Gerlache Strait is what comes to
mind when most people think of 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
7-8: ANTARCTIC SOUND, WEDDELL SEA AND ELEPHANT ISLAND
Over
the coming days, we will begin exploring the exciting region at the
very tip of the continent, beginning with the Antarctic
Sound. Named in 1902 after the Swedish vessel Antarctic
(itself named, confusingly, for the Antarctic region), the Antarctic
sound is much colder than the rest of the Peninsula. Despite its
northerly location, the area is subject to winds and currents which
arrive from much further south in the Weddell Sea, bringing freezing
temperatures, rafts of sea ice and vast tabular icebergs, which can
only form from the vast ice shelves fringing the continent's interior.
Though challenging to reach, this region hosts some of the Peninsula's
most spectacular sites, from the vast Adelie Penguin colonies of Hope
Bay and Devil's Island, to the historical sites of Esperanza Base and
the dramatic volcanic landscapes of Brown Bluff.
From
here we venture further south into the Weddell Sea, which takes its
name from the early British explorer and sealer James Weddell, who
reached the southernmost point of his day in the area. As we enter the
Weddell Sea of today, we can expect to see numerous city-sized tabular
icebergs, and catch a glimpse of the icepack - the vast mosaic of
never-melting floating ice which stretches to the Filchner-Ronne Ice
Shelf. This sea ice is the nursery of the Antarctic krill, the tiny
crustaceans which form the base of the food chain: where krill can be
found, predators are not far behind. Apart from penguins, the wildlife
here includes Weddell, leopard and elephant seals, vast numbers of
seabirds, and often large numbers of humpback whales, all of which come
to feast on the bountiful krill.
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 seasoned 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 best opportunities to explore. This is part of the
wonder of this part of the world, undertaking a true expedition into
the unknown and visiting an area few humans have ever been lucky enough
to see.
We
plan to finalize our time in Antarctica by navigating to Elephant
Island, legendary as the scene of Shackleton’s daring
lifeboat escape (sea conditions permitting). While landing here is
almost impossible, we hope to see where the Elephant Island party
waited for rescue at Point Wild. A famous part of expedition history,
the ideal finale to the Antarctic segment of our voyage.
DAY
9-10: AT SEA TOWARDS SOUTH GEORGIA
From
Antarctica, we set out again into the mighty Drake Passage, this time
following the furious seas towards South Georgia, mirroring the route
of Sir Ernest Shackleton onboard the James Caird. His voyage took an
agonizing seventeen days in the tiny wooden lifeboat - still considered
one of the greatest ever feats of navigation and seamanship. Your
crossing will benefit from our vessels' powerful engines, and the
stability provided by the specially-designed X-Bow, making the journey
in just two days!
In
order to protect the extremely delicate and rich ecosystem of South
Georgia, our dedicated Expedition Team will again assist you to
biosecure your clothing and equipment, while continuing with their
in-depth lecture program, now focussing on the fascinating history,
biology and wildlife of South Georgia. Be sure to wrap up warm and join
your Expedition Team out on deck - this section of the Scotia Sea (of
which the Drake Passage constitutes the western portion) is one of the
most biologically productive on Earth, and is a haven for vast
quantities of wildlife - from whales and albatross to penguins and
seals. Watch the waves carefully - in this region, sub-Antarctic
species (such as fur seal) mingle with true polar species (such as
Adelie Penguins), creating a fascinating ecological mix.
Additionally,
a raffle or auction onboard usually takes place during this time, to
raise funds for charitable organizations focused on global issues and
local environmental solutions. In this case, for example we may choose
to donate to the South Georgia Heritage Trust or other charities
carrying out conservation in the region. Take this opportunity to give
back to the world while educating yourself on the subjects that these
organizations support in a fun and enjoyable way - ideally with a
hand-crafted cocktail in hand!
DAY
11-15: SOUTH GEORGIA
A
strip of jagged mountains pierce the brooding clouds of the Southern
Ocean. Icebound peaks loom over storm-washed beaches, while glaciers
peek from the head of deep fjords. First believed to have been landed
on by legendary explorer Captain James Cook, even to modern explorers,
South Georgia presents a forbidding aura. But peer closer, and you will
see greenery among the ice; movement on the beaches; wings in the skies
above.
While
it seems hard to believe today, South Georgia was once one of the most
degraded environments on Earth. Hearing of the rich pickings, sealers
flocked to the island after Cook, slaughtering wantonly. Once the seals
had been almost exterminated, visiting ships sought larger prey, and
South Georgia became the world's largest whaling destination, with
several settlements built to carry out this industrialised slaughter.
Whalers from Norway introduced reindeer as game, which soon destroyed
the islands native vegetation, while brown rats (accidentally
introduced by Europeans and their boats) feasted upon seabirds and
their eggs - a horror against which these naive birds had no defence.
Thankfully,
extensive conservation (including a painstaking eradication of reindeer
and rats) has restored this magnificent island to its former glory -
and glory it truly is. Beaches throng with hundreds of thousands of
King Penguins, arguably some of Earth's most elegant animals. They must
vie for space with the abundant Antarctic fur seals, all desperately
defending territories and competing furiously for mates - and they
themselves must avoid the southern elephant seals, Earth's largest
seals (weighing up to a staggering four tonnes). Tiny South Georgia
Pippits and Pintail Ducks (once almost extinct) are now abundant, and
petrels, albatross and shags nest on the steep hillsides and wheel in
the air above. In the sea, leopard seals stalk for their next penguin
meal, fur seal pups play in the shallows, and offshore, a huge variety
of whale species gorge on krill. Nowhere else on Earth can boast such a
diversity of wildlife, or in such quantities; South Georgia truly has
to be experienced to be believed.
As
in Antarctica, our exact itinerary will be dictated by weather and sea
conditions, but especially by the wind and swell - nevertheless, our
experienced Expedition Team and Captain will work their hardest to
maximise opportunities to explore. Options include visiting the vast
penguin colonies of Salisbury Plain and St Andrew's Bay, seeing the
former whaling stations of Lieth and Stromness, drinking in the scenery
and seal colonies of Gold Harbour, or exploring this island's
fascinating exploration heritage at Grytviken (where Sir Ernest
Shackleton is buried). South Georgia is one of those locations which
grabs hold of the senses and never lets go; even long after departure,
the jewel of the South Atlantic will captivate visitors for years to
come.
DAY
16-17: AT SEA TOWARD SOUTH AMERICA. MONTEVIDEO, DISEMBARKATION
We
are now into the last leg of this adventurous voyage, heading
northwestwards towards Montevideo, Uruguay - one of the most important
ports for historical Antarctic expeditions, as it is for ours today.
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 westward.
During
your last evening onboard, join the Captain and Senior 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
Southern Ocean adventure. Skål!
DAY
18: MONTEVIDEO, URUGUAY - DISEMBARKATION
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. We will head for
the northern, Uruguayan shore, where our voyage ends. Trees, cars,
grass and a bustling capital 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.
(Click image to view Ship details)
WHAT'S INCLUDED
- 18-day/17-night
cruise with accommodation in a shared double stateroom featuring
ensuite facilities
- Embarkation
shuttle transfer to the vessel from Ushuaia 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!
EXCLUSIONS
- 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 (e.g. Albatros Polar Spa services, Albatros Ocean Boutique
purchases)
- Anything
not mentioned under 'Inclusions'
ADVENTURE OPTIONS
- Kayaking
- Lectures
- Photography
- Zodiac Cruising
- Wildlife observations
