South Shetland Islands and Antarctic Peninsula

South Shetland Islands and Antarctic Peninsula | Ocean Albatros | Antarctica Tours South Shetland Islands and Antarctic Peninsula | Ocean Albatros | Antarctica Tours

The Ocean Albatros is an ice-classed ship that takes passengers on expeditions to Antarctica and the sub-Antarctic islands. The cruise includes crossing the Drake Passage, visiting the South Shetland Islands, and exploring the Gerlache Strait. Passengers have the opportunity to make Zodiac landings at penguin rookeries, research stations, and lookouts. The journey is packed with pristine nature sightings and incredible wildlife, and depending on weather conditions, the ship may also pass close to Cape Horn.

This is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to experience the beauty and wonder of Antarctica. You will get to see penguins, seals, whales, and other wildlife in their natural habitat. You will also learn about the history and science of Antarctica from the ship's expedition team.

Day by day

Ushuaia has been called "the gateway to Antarctica". Ushuaia is a popular harbor for both luxury cruise ships and large, rugged icebreakers. Its location on the Beagle Channel, at the southernmost tip of Argentina makes it a great place to visit. Ushuaia, a vital port that supplies many Antarctic research bases is also an incredibly beautiful city. It feels like you're at the end of the earth.

Ushuaia, with its rugged mountains and steam train named the "Train and the End of the World", as well as the fascinating cultural and museum centers, is an amazing destination. Boat trips on the Beagle Channel are a great way to see penguins and sea seals up close.

Drake Passage refers to the notorious stretch of ocean that runs between South America's tip and the South Shetland Islands, and ends at the Antarctic Peninsula.

The Drake Passage usually takes two or three days, so this is the perfect time to get to know your Antarctic Naturalist Guides. You'll learn about Antarctica through a series fascinating lectures and talks.

You can always count on your guides to identify seabird species, whales or other cetaceans en route towards the Antarctic Peninsula and the South Shetland Islands.

South Shetland Islands, often overlooked by those who want to visit the Antarctic Peninsula are an amazing destination.

Many people find themselves astonished by their beauty, especially if they are landing here for the last time on an Antarctic Cruise. It's a great way to get acquainted with Antarctica by landing on this beach surrounded by Gentoo Penguins.

South Shetlands is home to many Antarctic animals, such as elephant seals and humpbacks whales.

South Shetland Islands is a great first stop for an Antarctic cruise. It has active volcanoes as well as remnants of whaling history and beautiful mountain scenery.

Many of the landing sites on expedition cruises are located in the North-West part of the Antarctic Peninsula.

The Peninsula is the northernmost part of Antarctica, and enjoys the mildest conditions. Winter temperatures average a balmy (-20°C) -4°F! The summer temperatures are just above freezing. This part of Antarctica is ice free, which means that many areas are ideal breeding and feeding ground for iconic Antarctic wildlife.

You can visit some bases if the weather permits. This is where many historic Antarctic expeditions started, as well as early scientific and military installations. The dry, cold climate has preserved these remarkable artifacts.

Drake Passage refers to the notorious stretch of ocean that runs between South America's tip and the South Shetland Islands, and ends at the Antarctic Peninsula.

The Drake Passage usually takes two or three days, so this is the perfect time to get to know your Antarctic Naturalist Guides. You'll learn about Antarctica through a series fascinating lectures and talks.

You can always count on your guides to identify seabird species, whales or other cetaceans en route towards the Antarctic Peninsula and the South Shetland Islands.

Drake Passage refers to the notorious stretch of ocean that runs between South America's tip and the South Shetland Islands, and ends at the Antarctic Peninsula.

The Drake Passage usually takes two or three days, so this is the perfect time to get to know your Antarctic Naturalist Guides. You'll learn about Antarctica through a series fascinating lectures and talks.

You can always count on your guides to identify seabird species, whales or other cetaceans en route towards the Antarctic Peninsula and the South Shetland Islands.

Ushuaia is the most southern city on earth and the departure point of many Antarctic cruises. It's located in Tierra del Fuego in Argentina.

Many cruises visit the Antarctic Peninsula, South Georgia, and Falkland Islands. There are many cruises that visit the Antarctic Peninsula South Georgia and Falkland Islands. Visitors can see stunning scenery and diverse wildlife.

Ushuaia is a destination that's worth visiting, not only for its natural beauty but also because it has a fascinating history. It also features a beautiful national park. Ushuaia offers a unique experience for anyone looking to explore the Antarctic and have an adventure.

Includes

  • 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

Does not Include

  • 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)

Highlights

  • Crossing the Drake Passage
  • Visiting the South Shetland Islands
  • Exploring the Gerlache Strait
  • Making Zodiac landings
  • Learning about the history and science of Antarctica
Humpback Whale | Antarctica
Ushuaia | Antarctica
Drake Passage | Antarctica
Penguins | Antarctica

Activities

Sea Kayaking
Under full instruction from your sea kayaking guide, experience true tranquillity as you paddle through clinking ice floes and realise the enormity of the surrounding scenery. Look out for breaching whales, lounging seals and penguins zipping alongside your kayak. Some experience is required.
Ice Camping
Camp out on the ice and experience the silence which blankets the continent by night. This is your chance to completely connect with this ethereal ice world – wrap up warm and embrace the Antarctic elements.
Snowshoeing
Get a spring in your step when you slip on a pair of snowshoes in Antarctica. Enabling you to easily scale gentle slopes, this unique activity allows you to access hard to reach places and seek out the most impressive views.
Photography
Learn to capture wildlife and landscape shots in a small group photography program, including critiquing sessions and editing classes. Plus, Explorer Boat excursions with a dedicated photography expert on landings.
Explorer Boats
Achieve the best views and photographs from a forward facing Explorer Boats. They allow you to sit comfortably and securely while crackling through the ice-strewn waters. Look out for wildlife such as penguins, seals and whales as you cruise.
Yoga
It doesn’t get more serene than complimentary yoga classes to the tune of glacial scenery. Join the most unique exercise setting in the world after a day of exploration. Classes are regular but are dependent on weather conditions and swell.
South Shetland Islands and Antarctic Peninsula
11 Days
From $7,590.00 per person