Antarctica’s Whale Season | Ocean Albatros Expedition Ship

Antarctica’s Whale Season

Journey to Antarctica during the height of whale activity on a remarkable polar expedition. The expedition begins at Ushuaia before crossing the Drake Passage to reveal the stunning South Shetland Islands and Antarctic Peninsula through this travel experience.

The area contains nutrient-filled water which attracts numerous humpback whales to feed on krill which results in amazing wildlife viewing opportunities. Visitors who watch whales can also see penguins in their natural habitats together with seals that lounge on frozen beaches and seabirds that fly across the Southern Ocean. The expedition reveals the world through its stunning glacier vistas and its Antarctic heritage sites which exist in the farthest reaches of our planet.

Day by day

Day 1: Discover Ushuaia

The expedition starts its journey from Ushuaia which serves as the southernmost point of Argentina and functions as the main entrance to Antarctica. The town exists between mountainous terrain and forested areas inside Tierra del Fuego National Park while it preserves its coastal maritime heritage. The travelers have free time to explore the harbor area and its museums and scenic observation points before their journey to the south begins. The expedition team receives its first briefing which shows them the path they will follow during their Antarctic exploration.

Day 2: Boarding the Expedition Vessel

The official start of the Antarctic voyage begins today. The expedition ship takes guests on board after their last morning exploration of Ushuaia before it sets sail through the Beagle Channel. The ship begins its voyage toward the Southern Ocean which marks the start of its journey to reach the frozen continent. The evening starts with an expedition program introduction which also presents the expected wildlife sightings and natural landscapes that travelers will encounter during their voyage.

Day 3: Sailing Through the Drake Passage

Day 4: Sailing Through the Drake Passage

Day 5: South Shetland Islands Wildlife

Day 6: South Shetland Islands Wildlife

Day 7: Antarctic Peninsula Exploration

Day 8: Antarctic Peninsula Exploration

Day 9: Journey Back Across the Drake Passage

Day 10: Journey Back Across the Drake Passage

Day 11: Disembarkation in Ushuaia

+12

Cruise 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

Cruise 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

Observe humpback whales during their Antarctic feeding season

Explore the dramatic landscapes of the Antarctic Peninsula

Discover wildlife-rich islands in the South Shetland archipelago

Cross the legendary Drake Passage

Witness penguin colonies, seals, and massive icebergs

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