ULTIMATE ANTARCTIC CIRCLE CROSSING

SHIP OFFERING THIS ITINERARY

Ocean Albatros

The Ocean Albatros had her maiden voyage in 2022 with 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 Albatros 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.

Days 1 – 2 Ushuaia, Argentina

Days 3 – 4 Drake Passage

Join the Polar Experts as they share their vast knowledge of Antarctica, from its enchanting wildlife to its bold history. Participate in the pioneering Citizen Science program or sit back and take in this fabled journey while catching glimpses of rarely seen wildlife. Keep your binoculars handy to identify the many seabirds that escort your ship as you cross the Antarctic Convergence into Antarctica’s waters and noticeably cooler temperatures.

Day 5 South Shetland Islands

Over time, the volcanic activity of the South Shetland Islands has created a geology unlike any other. Here, you can expect a spectacular display of mountains, glaciers, and wildlife, including Chinstrap and Gentoo penguins, and it’s not uncommon to share the water’s edge with Elephant and Fur seals. Whales are often spotted as well. So, settle into Zodiacs and kayaks and spend most of the day exploring. Whether on land or sea, in Zodiac or kayak, be prepared for a fully immersive introduction to this incomparable part of the world.

Days 6 – 9 Antarctic Circle

Heading south across the Bransfield Strait, begin to see the breathtaking outline of the Antarctic Peninsula. Wildlife sightings, including penguins, whales, and fur seals, become more frequent, as do dramatic sculptural icebergs. With extra time to explore, possibilities abound. Visit historic sites like the huts at Damoy Point, keep an eye out for humpback whales in Wilhelmina Bay, and continue the twice-daily outings until you reach the crown jewel of this expedition, the jaw-dropping scenery through the Lemaire Channel. Weather permitting, cross the Antarctic Circle at 66°33’S, an achievement that will put you in rare company. Following a tradition first established by sailors crossing the equator, celebrate the occasion by… (Sorry, you just have to be there), before heading onward toward any number of historic and rarely visited British Survey bases, after which you’ll turn back north.

Days 10 – 12 Antarctic Peninsula

Heading north, explore all the Antarctic Peninsula has to offer, including any number of spectacular bays and famed landing sites, manoeuvring through dramatic channels and traversing the wildlife-rich waters, encountering a wide variety of lively penguins, seals, and whales along the rugged coastlines and in the sea. There are always great opportunities to stop at several active scientific bases and historic landing sites along the way. Leave no opportunity unseized upon in your quest to explore the very best of this magical place.

Days 13 – 14 At Sea

Leave this magical place and make your way north, once again crossing the legendary Drake Passage. Have one last hurrah and celebrate the conclusion of your expedition with a special slideshow and a final meal together.

Day 15 Ushuaia, Argentina

With huge smiles on weary, content faces, disembark in the morning. Catch a flight to Buenos Aires or stay in Ushuaia for more sights and adventure.