Voyage Overview
Embark the Ocean Albatros for the ultimate Antarctic bucket list adventure – crossing the Antarctic Circle.
Earth’s final frontier! A couple days longer than our regular Peninsula trip, this expedition will attempt to sail further south into more off the beaten track areas across the Antarctic Circle.
Trip Details
Duration: 12 Days
Ship: Ocean Albatros, Premium Ship, 192 Guests
Start: Ushuaia, Argentina
End: Ushuaia, Argentina
Highlights:
- 6 planned days in Antarctica.
- Sailing on a brand new X-bow design ship giving you a smoother ride across the Drake.
- Marine Mammals – March is the best time of the season for whales.
- Setting foot on land in Antarctica to experience penguins and incredible views.
- Getting a closer look at icebergs and potentially seals & whales while zodiac cruising.
- Participating in an optional activity such as paddling or photography program (extra cost).
Trip Itinerary Overview:
Day 1: Embark in Ushuaia, Argentina
Days 2-3: Crossing the Drake Passage
Days 4-8: Antarctic Peninsula & Antarctic Circle
Day 9: South Shetland Islands
Days 10-11: Crossing the Drake Passage
Day 12: Disembark in Ushuaia
Tour Dates
- October 2025 to March 2026
| Dates | Availability | |
|---|---|---|
Feb 28 – Mar 11, 2026 (12 days) | Limited | view pricing chart |
Itinerary
Day 1: Embarkation in Ushuaia, Argentina
This morning will be free to explore the world’s southernmost city or to stretch your legs in the surrounding forests. 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. *Note – all guests should arrive into Ushuaia at least one day prior to Day 1 (hotel nights in Ushuaia are not included in voyage cost).
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 busy with safety & bio-security briefings as well as lectures on Antarctic exploration history, wildlife, geology, glaciology and more! In between lectures keep an eye out for petrels and albatrosses soaring around the ship and potentially whales.
Days 4-8: Antarctic Peninsula and Antarctic Circle
In the days ahead, we venture further west along the Antarctic Peninsula into the Gerlache Strait region. This icy expanse requires meticulous planning by our Expedition Leader and Captain, who will plot a route to explore a variety of sites highlighting the area’s staggering natural beauty. The Gerlache Strait, consisting of the ‘spine’ of the Antarctic Peninsula and a large number of mountainous glaciated islands, offers a plethora of iconic Antarctic experiences. From Zodiac cruises in Paradise Bay, to witnessing penguins nesting on Cuverville Island, each potential stop promises awe-inspiring encounters. Explore historic huts at Damoy Point, witness humpback whales in Wilhelmina Bay, and marvel at the jaw-dropping scenery of the Lemaire Channel. Wherever we go on the Antarctic Peninsula, endemic wildlife, tantalising history and breathtaking natural beauty abound.
During our time on the Antarctic Peninsula, we will delve southwards, seeking the Antarctic Circle. The exact timing of crossing the Circle depends on wind, sea and ice conditions, and will be determined by the Captain and Expedition Leader. However, crossing the Antarctic Circle, the ultimate bucket list tick, is the main goal of this thrilling expedition! While our exact destinations will depend on weather and ice conditions, your Expedition Leader will ensure guests are informed of our plans through nightly briefings. In the ever-changing Antarctic environment, flexibility is key as we adapt plans to suit the conditions while offering enriching onboard experiences such as lectures, recaps, wine-tasting, and spa treatments.
Day 9: South Shetland Islands
Our Antarctic odyssey culminates amidst the rugged beauty of the South Shetland Islands. This archipelago represents the northernmost tip of Antarctica, standing proud against the relentless force of the Southern Ocean. Despite the furious elements, the islands boast a remarkable richness of wildlife, with numerous colonies of Gentoo and Chinstrap Penguins dotting the island shores, accompanied by an array of formidable seabirds like the predatory Giant Petrels.
The ice-capped peaks of Livingstone, Greenwich, and King George Islands offer a stunning backdrop to explore. Experience the eerie landscape of Deception Island, an active volcanic crater with black steaming sands and rusting ruins, or witness the bustling penguin colonies on Aitcho and Half Moon Islands, or immerse yourself in the history of Yankee Harbour, once a vital anchorage for sealers. As we bid farewell to the South Shetland Islands, we carry with us memories of their stark beauty and abundant wildlife, a fitting conclusion to our extraordinary Antarctic expedition.
Day 10-11: At Sea Crossing the Drake Passage Northbound
We eventually depart Antarctica, and 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. Skål!
Day 12: Disembarkation in Ushuaia
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.
Please note the itinerary and route map are only tentative outlines of what you may experience. No specific itinerary, routing or landing sites can be guaranteed in advance. Where the ship actually sails will depend on a lot of factors including, but not limited to, the weather & ice conditions and the captain & expedition leader. Every trip is different, which adds to the excitement of expedition cruising in the polar regions.
Trips & Rates
Please note, rates are Per Person in USD
Availability & prices are subject to change at anytime
Feb 28 – Mar 11, 2026 (12 days)
| Start: | Ushuaia, Argentina |
| End: | Ushuaia, Argentina |
Black Friday Deal valid until Dec 5, 2025
| Cabin Category | Triple Stateroom | Porthole Stateroom | French Balcony Stateroom | Balcony Stateroom | Superior Balcony Stateroom | Grand Balcony Stateroom | Balcony Suite | Junior Suite | Freydis Suite | Brynhilde Suite | Single Stateroom |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Per Person Price in USD | $10,995 | $12,795 | $13,495 | $13,895 | $14,595 | $15,295 | $18,195 | $23,295 | $26,195 | $26,195 | $16,095 |
| Discount | Save 35% | Save 35% | Save 35% | Save 35% | Save 35% | Save 35% | Save 35% | Save 35% | |||
| Discounted Per Person Price | $10,995 | $12,795 | $8,772 | $9,032 | $9,487 | $9,942 | $11,827 | $15,142 | $17,027 | $17,027 | $16,095 |
| Availability | Full | Full | Full | Full | Open | Limited | Limited | Open | Limited | Full | Full |
Adventure Options:
- Paddling (one-time): $345/person per excursion for 2025-26 season & $350/person for 2026-27 season, only bookable onboard the ship
- Kayaking program (multiple paddles): $1,195/person
- Camping: $395/person, can be pre-booked, paid onboard the ship
- Snowshoeing: $225/person per excursion, only bookable onboard the ship
- Photography Program: $495/person, can be pre-booked and pre-paid
Voyage Ship
Ocean Albatros
With one of the highest Polar code 6 and Ice class 1A, Ocean Albatros is the ideal vessel for small-ship cruising due to her sturdy construction and X-Bow®-Infinity class, which provides high stability in rough weather and allows for the smoothest movements on high waves, and a Solas 2012 classification which facilitates a safe return to port.
Ocean Albatros Cabins & Deck Plan
Brynhilde Suite
DECK 7
The largest of all the staterooms on board the Ocean Albatros is the Brynhilde Suite. This two-bedroom suite can accommodate up to 4 guests on two double beds and a sofa bed. The suite has easy access to the bridge, pool deck and the observation lounge.
538 ft² / 50 m²
1-5
2 double + sofa bed
Freydis Suite
DECK 4
The second largest of all the staterooms on board the Ocean Albatros is the Freydis Premium Suite. This 2-bedroom suite features a double bed (or twin beds), a sofa bed, table and chair, a balcony and a spacious bathroom.
452 ft² / 42 m² including balcony
1-4
1 double or 2 twins + sofa bed
Junior Suite
DECK 7
The four Junior Suites have a great view from their location high on the ship. The suites feature a double bed or twin beds, sofa bed, seating area, a spacious bathroom and a private balcony.
388 – 420 ft² / 36 – 39 m² including balcony
1-3
1 double or 2 twins + sofa bed
Balcony Suite
DECK 6
Ocean Albatros has just two Balcony Suites on board located midship on deck 6. The suites feature double or twin beds, a work desk, bathroom, and a large balcony.
323 – 344 ft² / 30 – 32 m² including balcony
1-2
1 double or 2 twin
Grand Balcony Stateroom
DECK 4
The four Grand Balcony Staterooms have a balcony, a double bed or two single beds, and a bathroom.
269 – 323 ft² / 25 – 30 m² including balcony
1-2
1 double or twin
Superior Balcony Stateroom
Deck 4
Deck 6
The most abundant cabin category on Ocean Albatros. The staterooms feature a balcony, a double bed or two single beds, seating area with table & chair, and a bathroom. A select few Superior Balcony Staterooms are equipped with a sofa that can serve as a bed for a third occupant. Some staterooms have connecting doors (available upon request).
237 – 269 ft² / 22 – 25 m² including balcony
1-2
1 double or 2 twin
Balcony Stateroom
Deck 4
Deck 6
Balcony Staterooms have a balcony, a double bed or two single beds and a bathroom.
194 – 237 ft² / 18 – 22 m² including balcony
1-2
1 double or 2 twin
Porthole Stateroom
Deck 3
Deck 4
Porthole Staterooms feature a double bed or 2 single beds, bathroom and porthole window. Please note the cabin layout and size may vary.
140- 237 ft² / 13 – 22 m²
1-2
1 double or 2 twin
French Balcony Stateroom
DECK 7
A standard stateroom with a French balcony, one queen-sized bed (150×200 cm), floor-to-ceiling windows, and a bathroom.
151 ft² / 14 m²
1-2
1 queen
Triple Stateroom
DECK 3
There are two Triple Staterooms on board Ocean Albatros featuring portholes and bathrooms.
194 – 237 ft² / 18 – 22 m²
1-3
3 twins or 1 double + 1 twin
Single Stateroom
DECK 3
Standard single stateroom with a porthole and bathroom.
151 ft² / 14 m²
1
1 twin
Inclusions/Exclusions
Inclusions:
- 12-day 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
- 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 16 per person per day)
- Personal expenses (e.g. Albatros Polar Spa services, Albatros Ocean Boutique purchases)
- Anything not mentioned under ‘Inclusions’
Solo Travelers
Are you traveling alone? Solo travelers have the following options:
- Can book a dedicated Single Stateroom at prices listed above
- Can book into a share cabin in the following categories: Triple, Porthole, Balcony, Superior Balcony & Grand Balcony
- Twin cabins can be booked at single occupancy at 1.75x the per person price
