SOUTHERN OCEAN ODYSSEY  

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Ocean Victory

The Ocean Victory, completed in 2020, has a revolutionary X-bow design for more stability and comfort along with being environmentally considerate in all aspects. A total of 93 cabins can accommodate up to 189 guests, all featuring ocean views, 90% with their own balconies. Two restaurants serve up high-quality cuisine along with a Nordic inspired bar to spend your nights enjoying the incredible Antarctic scenery passing you by. Fill in your time at sea with visits to the wellness area (with a gym and a spa), listen to lectures in the modern lecture lounge and soak up the sun (with your coat on) on the open deck dining facility. The Ocean Victory is part of a new generation of low-energy vessels with 4 diesel engines and 2 electro engines, all controlled electronically to optimise speed and fuel consumption.

Day 1 Montevideo, Uruguay

Days 2 – 4 At Sea

Following the ocean currents of the South Atlantic, we head towards the rarely-visited Falkland Islands (Islas Malvinas).

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 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.

Days 5 – 6 Falkland Islands

On your first day in the Falklands, you will venture to some of the outer islands in the West Falklands. 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, you will cast anchor in the sheltered natural harbor of Port Stanley in the early afternoon. Utilizing the Zodiacs, you 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.

Days 7 – 8 At Sea

Sailing onward from Stanley, cross the infamous Drake Passage, known for rollicking conditions and strong westerly winds, nicknamed the Furious Fifties. The most spirited sailors consider Drake Passage a lifetime achievement – and you will complete the crossing twice!

Your days in the Drake Passage will be put to good use preparing for your 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. The 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!

You will cross into the Antarctic Convergence on your second day at sea from the Falkland Islands. 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.

Days 9 – 11 Antarctic Peninsula

Day 12 South Shetland Islands

Days 13 – 14 At Sea

After departing Antarctica, you will spend two days at sea on your way northwards, back across the infamous Drake Passage towards the more welcoming shores of the Beagle Channel and Ushuaia, Argentina. During your time at sea, a variety of activities will be arranged on board to provide you 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 the 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 the onboard photographer – the ideal opportunity to re-live your Antarctic adventure.

Day 15 Ushuaia, Argentina

On the morning of the final day of your voyage, you 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.