Antarctic Peninsula and Weddell Sea - M/V Ocean Albatros

Arrive in Ushuaia (USH). Embarkation will commence in the afternoon - you will need to make your own way to the port, ready to board your vessel. After the mandatory safety drill, your expedition begins, as the ship navigates through the calm waters of the famous Beagle Channel. This steep-sided strait divides southern Tierra del Fuego between Chile and Argentina, and has been the start point for thousands of expeditions into the unknown. Watch out for whales and dolphins as we sail off the edge of the map into the Drake Passage.

As we sail through the renowned Drake Passage, our focus turns to preparing for your arrival in Antarctica. Your Expedition Leader will provide thorough safety briefings and guidelines to minimise our impact on this pristine environment. Our dedicated Expedition Team will also assist in biosecuring your gear while offering tailored lectures on Antarctic exploration, wildlife, and much more.

On your third day, we'll cross the Antarctic Convergence, marked by a sudden drop in temperature as warmer currents give way to Antarctic waters. This transition fosters a surge in marine life, promising sightings of petrels, albatrosses, and possibly even penguins, seals, and whales. Weather permitting, we aim to land on the South Shetland Islands on the afternoon of the third day of our expedition, starting our exploration of the Last Continent.

In the forthcoming days, our expedition ventures into the captivating region at the northeastern tip of the continent, the Antarctic Sound, gateway to the Weddell Sea. This region is confusingly named after the Swedish vessel Antarctic which first sailed the area in 1902. Despite its northern location, the Antarctic Sound experiences harsh cold conditions due to winds and currents from the Weddell Sea. This area boasts some of Antarctica's most striking scenery, from the vast Adelie Penguin colonies at Hope Bay and Devil's Island, to the dramatic volcanic cliffs at Brown Bluff.

Continuing southward into the Weddell Sea, named after early British Antarctic explorer James Weddell, we encounter immense tabular icebergs and the expansive icepack which nurtures Antarctic krill, the foundation of the food chain. The presence of krill attracts a diverse array of wildlife, including penguins, seals, seabirds, and humpback whales, all of which we hope to see while exploring this icy wilderness.

Navigation through the Weddell Sea presents some challenges due to the substantial sea ice and massive icebergs. Our experienced Captain and Expedition Leader adapt plans to ensure safe exploration, seizing opportunities to delve into this remote and rarely visited wilderness. We will aim to go ashore at sites which showcase the majesty of the Antarctic environment and ecosystem, as well as exploring on Zodiac cruises. Embrace the wonder of this journey into the unknown, exploring a region few have had the privilege to witness.

In the days ahead, we venture further west along the Antarctic Peninsula into the Gerlache Strait region. This icy expanse requires meticulous planning by our Expedition Leader and Captain, who will plot a route to explore a variety of sites highlighting the area's staggering natural beauty. The Gerlache Strait, consisting of the 'spine' of the Antarctic Peninsula and a large number of mountainous glaciated islands, offers a plethora of iconic Antarctic experiences. From Zodiac cruises in Paradise Bay, to witnessing penguins nesting on Cuverville Island, each potential stop promises awe-inspiring encounters. Explore historic huts at Damoy Point, witness humpback whales in Wilhelmina Bay, and marvel at the jaw-dropping scenery of the Lemaire Channel. Wherever we go on the Antarctic Peninsula, endemic wildlife, tantalising history and breathtaking natural beauty abound.

While our exact destinations will depend on weather and ice conditions, your Expedition Leader will ensure guests are informed of our plans through the evening briefings. In the ever-changing Antarctic environment, flexibility is key, as we adapt plans to suit the conditions while offering enriching onboard experiences such as lectures, recaps, wine-tasting, and spa treatments.

Our Antarctic odyssey culminates amidst the rugged beauty of the South Shetland Islands. This archipelago represents the northernmost tip of Antarctica, standing proud against the relentless force of the Southern Ocean. Despite the furious elements, the islands boast a remarkable richness of wildlife, with numerous colonies of Gentoo and Chinstrap Penguins dotting the island shores, accompanied by an array of formidable seabirds like the predatory Giant Petrels. The ice-capped peaks of Livingstone, Greenwich, and King George Islands offer a stunning backdrop to explore. Experience the eerie landscape of Deception Island, an active volcanic crater with black steaming sands and rusting ruins, or witness the bustling penguin colonies on Aitcho and Half Moon Islands, or immerse yourself in the history of Yankee Harbour, once a vital anchorage for sealers. As we bid farewell to the South Shetland Islands, we carry with us memories of their stark beauty and abundant wildlife, a fitting conclusion to our extraordinary Antarctic expedition.

We depart Antarctica and spend two days at sea on our way northwards back across the Drake Passage, heading towards the 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 guests 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 our 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 our onboard photographer - the ideal opportunity to re-live your Antarctic adventure. Skål!

During the early morning, we cruise up the Beagle Channel, before quietly slipping into dock in Ushuaia. The trip ends after breakfast on board the ship. Bid farewell to your Expedition crew and fellow travellers as you continue on your onward journeys.