Exploring Antarctica’s Spring | Ocean Albatros Expedition Ship

Exploring Antarctica’s Spring

The frozen land of Antarctica becomes active when the extended polar winter period ends. The springtime expedition starts from Ushuaia before crossing the famous Drake Passage to reach the stunning South Shetland Islands and Antarctic Peninsula.

The penguins return to their beach homes during this season to find mates and make their nests while icebergs float peacefully through the polar waters. The trip presents an unmatched chance to view Antarctica during its most colorful season because the area has decreased naval activity and the sky displays stunning sunset views across the frozen landscape.

Day by day

Day 1: Arrival in Ushuaia

The expedition starts in Ushuaia which stands as the world's southernmost city and serves as the primary access point to Antarctica. The city of Ushuaia sits between Tierra del Fuego's mountain range and the Beagle Channel's aquatic expanse while it presents stunning views and an intriguing sea-based past. Visitors to the town can explore its waterfront area and museums and natural surroundings before their expedition begins. The evening starts with a briefing which introduces the expedition team members and provides information about Antarctica's natural environments and animal species and its history of exploration.

Day 2: Embarkation and Departure

The travelers spend their last morning in Ushuaia before they board the expedition ship which will take them on their journey. The ship sails out of the port to enter the Beagle Channel while the rugged Patagonian scenery fades from view. The expedition team provides orientation briefings to travelers who also receive their first meeting with team members before their adventure begins as the ship sets its course for Antarctica.

Day 3: Crossing the Drake Passage

Day 4: Crossing the Drake Passage

Day 5: South Shetland Islands

Day 6: Antarctica in the Spring

Day 7: Antarctica in the Spring

Day 8: Antarctica in the Spring

Day 9: Return Across the Drake Passage

Day 10: Return 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

Witness Antarctica during the early spring season

Observe penguins courting, nesting, and caring for eggs

Explore the South Shetland Islands and Antarctic Peninsula

Enjoy dramatic sunsets and pristine polar scenery

Experience one of the quietest periods of the Antarctic travel season

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.