Arrive in Ushuaia, Argentina, the southernmost city in the world. Explore the vibrant town, stretch your legs in nearby forests, or take a day trip into the wild beauty of Tierra del Fuego. Hike through snow-capped mountains, glaciers, meadows, and wetlands. In the afternoon, board your vessel and settle in.

After the safety drill, your expedition begins as you sail through the calm Beagle Channel, named for Darwin's ship. This strait separates Tierra del Fuego between Chile and Argentina and has been the launch point for countless expeditions. Keep an eye out for whales and dolphins as you head into the stormy Drake Passage.

As you sail through the Drake Passage, connecting Patagonia to Antarctica, prepare for its rough waters and strong winds, known as the Roaring Fifties. Luckily, our expedition vessels are designed for comfort, with stable X-Bows and powerful engines, guided by an expert crew. This challenging crossing, done twice during our trip, is a proud achievement for seasoned sailors.

During the crossing, you'll get ready for Antarctica, with your Expedition Leader giving safety briefings and environmental guidelines. Our team will help biosecure your gear and offer lectures on Antarctic exploration and wildlife.

On day 3, you'll cross the Antarctic Convergence, where the temperature drops as warm currents meet cold Antarctic waters, bringing a boost in marine life. You may spot petrels, albatrosses, and possibly penguins, seals, and whales. Weather permitting, we aim to land on the South Shetland Islands and begin exploring Antarctica.

In the coming days, you'll explore the captivating Antarctic Sound, at the northeastern tip of the continent, leading to the Weddell Sea. Despite its northern location, the Antarctic Sound is cold due to winds and currents from the Weddell Sea. Here, you’ll see stunning scenery, from the vast Adelie Penguin colonies at Hope Bay and Devil's Island to the dramatic volcanic cliffs at Brown Bluff.

Heading south into the Weddell Sea, named after explorer James Weddell, you'll encounter massive icebergs and an expansive ice pack that supports Antarctic krill, the foundation of the food chain. This attracts wildlife like penguins, seals, seabirds, and humpback whales—hoping to see them is part of the adventure.

Navigating the Weddell Sea is challenging, but your Captain and Expedition Leader will adjust plans for safe exploration. You’ll have opportunities to land and explore iconic Antarctic sites and take Zodiac cruises. Embrace the wonder of this rare journey into the unknown.

In the coming days, the ship heads further west along the Antarctic Peninsula into the Gerlache Strait. Your Expedition Leader and Captain will carefully chart a course to explore the stunning natural beauty of this icy region.

The Gerlache Strait, with its glaciated islands and towering mountains, offers iconic Antarctic experiences. You’ll cruise in Zodiacs around Paradise Bay, see penguins nesting on Cuverville Island, and explore historic huts at Damoy Point. Keep an eye out for humpback whales in Wilhelmina Bay and enjoy the breathtaking views of the Lemaire Channel. Wildlife, history, and scenery are in abundance here.

The exact stops will depend on weather and ice conditions, but your Expedition Leader will keep you updated during nightly briefings.

Your Antarctic adventure ends in the rugged beauty of the South Shetland Islands, the northernmost point of Antarctica. Despite the harsh weather, these islands are teeming with wildlife, including Gentoo and Chinstrap Penguins, and seabirds like Giant Petrels.

Explore the ice-covered peaks of Livingstone, Greenwich, and King George Islands, or visit Deception Island, an active volcanic crater with black sands and old ruins. Witness penguin colonies on Aitcho and Half Moon Islands, and dive into the history of Yankee Harbour, once a key stop for sealers.

As you leave, you'll carry the memories of the islands’ wild beauty and rich wildlife, a perfect end to your Antarctic journey.

As you leave Antarctica, you'll spend two days at sea crossing the Drake Passage, heading toward Ushuaia, Argentina. Onboard, enjoy a range of activities to reflect on your journey. Relax with a cocktail at the Nordic Bar, join lectures from the Expedition Team in the Shackleton Lounge, or watch albatrosses soaring nearby.

On your final evening, join the Captain and Officers for the Farewell Cocktail Party, followed by a photo and video presentation by the onboard photographer—perfect for reliving your Antarctic adventure. 

On the morning of the final day of our voyage, the ship will arrive back at the pier of Ushuaia, Argentina. Trees, grass and a bustling 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.

Secure your space today by calling one of our Travel Specialists on 0203 196 1000