South Shetland Islands and Antarctic Peninsula

This is a classic 10-day voyage to the Great White Continent.

Experience the incredible wildlife, stunning mountain scenery and gigantic icebergs in 10 action-packed days.


Antarctic Peninsula
© Agustin Ullmann

Storied and sought for centuries, the great White Continent beckons intrepid modern-day explorers from all over the world. Experience incredible wildlife, stunning scenery and gigantic icebergs in action-packed days on the Last Continent on our classic 10-day voyage to the Antarctic Peninsula.

Duration: 10 days
Starts: Ushuaia, Argentina
Ends: Ushuaia, Argentina
Language: English speaking voyage


Included
Optional


Departing Ushuaia in Argentina, we cross the mighty Drake Passage en-route for the South Shetland Islands, making Zodiac landings at penguin rookeries, research stations and fascinating lookouts along the way. Continuing southward, deep into the inlets of Antarctica, we pass the famous Gerlache Strait, where 3000-ft ice cliffs rise straight out of the still water. On no other journey can you experience so much pristine nature and varied wildlife in so few days!
When the ship returns to Tierra del Fuego and Ushuaia, depending on weather conditions, we might pass close to the mythical Cape Horn - the southernmost point on South America; a celebrated maritime landmark.

Itinerary

© ALB
© ALB
© Jonas Beyer

DAY 1 | ARRIVAL USHUAIA
Arrive in Ushuaia, Argentina - the world’s southernmost town. Explore the quaint city or local countryside. Alternatively, consider a day trip off the beaten path to the raw, natural archipelago of Tierra del Fuego. It's a hiker's paradise with rugged snow-capped mountains, glaciers, flower-filled meadows and boggy quagmires. In the afternoon, we board our ship.

Our journey begins as we navigate through the calms of Beagle Channel, a strait in the Tierra del Fuego Archipelago.

DAY 2-3 | AT SEA - CROSSING THE DRAKE PASSAGE SOUTHBOUND
Sailing onward, we cross the famed Drake Passage - the body of water separating Patagonia and the Antarctic Peninsula. The Drake Passage is known for rollicking conditions and strong westerly winds, nicknamed the Roaring Fifties. While this passage may be challenging, you can rest comfortably aboard our expedition vessels, which are purpose-built with stabilizers, powerful engines and manned by a highly-qualified crew. The most spirited sailors consider Drake Passage a lifetime achievement - and you will complete the crossing twice!

Our days in the Drake Passage will be put to good use preparing for our arrival in Antarctica - your Expedition Leader will brief you comprehensively on how to stay safe and minimise your impact on this precious wilderness, as well as briefing you thoroughly on our plans for our time spent exploring, including hints and tips for wildlife watching. Our dedicated Expedition Team will assist you to biosecure your clothing and equipment (a vital process to protect Antarctica's delicate ecology), as well as sharing tailored lectures on Antarctic exploration history, wildlife, geology, glaciology and more!

We will cross into the Antarctic Convergence on the third day of our voyage - watch the mercury plummet as we sail southwards into Antarctic waters, an abrupt cooling that marks the intersection of Antarctic waters with the warmer waters of the Atlantic and Pacific Oceans. As the sea cools, wildlife multiplies; these are some of the most biologically productive water on Earth, so expect to see petrels, albatrosses and potentially penguins, seals and whales in abundance. Weather permitting, we may be able to make landfall in the South Shetland Islands (a small but spectacular archipelago to the north of the Antarctic Peninsula) on the afternoon of our second day in the Drake Passage, marking the start of our exploration on the Last Continent.

DAY 4-7 | SOUTH SHETLAND ISLANDS & THE ANTARCTIC PENINSULA
Over the next days, we will enjoy a safe and exciting Antarctic experience explorers of yesteryear could only dream of.

Our Antarctic adventure begins in the South Shetland Islands. This chain of rugged rocks marks the northernmost point of Antarctica, and the most exposed to the fury of the Southern Ocean. Because of this, it is also one of the richest in terms of wildlife, with large Gentoo and Chinstrap Penguin colonies, and an abundance of large seabirds such as predatory Giant Petrels. The ice-clad mountains of Livingstone, Greenwich and King George Islands give us a glimpse of what is to come as we venture further south. Landing sites which may be visited in the South Shetland Islands include the black steaming sands and rusting ruins of Deception Island (an active volcanic crater), the bustling penguin colonies of Aitcho and Half Moon Islands, or the old sealers' anchorage of Yankee Harbour.

The following days will be spent exploring further south on the Antarctic Peninsula in the Gerlache Strait region. This region is typically icy, so our exact route will be subject to careful planning by the Expedition Leader and Captain - however we will aim to visit a range of sites which showcase the best of this staggeringly beautiful region.

Consisting of the 'spine' of the Antarctic Peninsula and a large number of glaciated and mountainous islands, the Gerlache Strait is what comes to mind when most people think of Antarctica. Marvel at the massive icebergs and vast glaciers on a Zodiac cruise in Paradise Bay. Be moved by penguins tenderly caring for their precious eggs, and fiercely defending their nests on Cuverville Island. Watch cataracts of ice tumble into clear blue ocean on a hike over the active glaciers of Neko Harbour. Experience the Antarctica of old at historic huts such as Damoy Point, lovingly restored and open to all. Feel the spray of water from the blow of a humpback whale on a Zodiac safari in Wilhelmina Bay. Wonder at awe-inspiring scenery on a ship cruise through the Lemaire Channel. Wherever we go on the Antarctic Peninsula, endemic wildlife, tantalising history and breathtaking natural beauty abound.

While wind, ice and sea conditions will dictate our precise destinations and timings, our plans will be explained to guests during regularly scheduled evening briefings with your Expedition Leader; these nightly sessions are also an excellent opportunity to hear from your knowledgeable Expedition Team, who will explain and expand on our experiences to ensure guests get the most from their voyage.

On Antarctica, all human activity is subject to the whims of Mother Nature. While we will make every possible effort to maximise opportunities for exploration off the vessel, the safety of our guests and crew is our top priority. We therefore ask all our guests to join the expedition spirit and be flexible - harsh weather offers the opportunity to expand your knowledge of Antarctica with lectures from our expert Expedition Team, or to enjoy the superlative comfort of our vessels, be it wine-tasting, relaxing in the hot tubs, or recharging with a relaxing massage in our Spa.

DAY 8-9 |AT SEA - CROSSING THE DRAKE PASSAGE NORTHBOUND
We eventually depart Antarctica, and spend two days at sea on our way northwards back across the infamous Drake Passage towards the more welcoming shores of the Beagle Channel and Ushuaia, Argentina. During our time at sea, a variety of activities will be arranged on board to provide our 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!

DAY 10 | BACK TO USHUAIA AND DISEMBARKATION
On the morning of the final day of our voyage, we will arrive back at the pier of Ushuaia, Argentina. Trees, grass and a busy 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.

Itinerary

DAY 1 | ARRIVAL USHUAIA
Arrive in Ushuaia, Argentina - the world’s southernmost town. Explore the quaint city or local countryside. Alternatively, consider a day trip off the beaten path to the raw, natural archipelago of Tierra del Fuego. It's a hiker's paradise with rugged snow-capped mountains, glaciers, flower-filled meadows and boggy quagmires. In the afternoon, we board our ship.

Our journey begins as we navigate through the calms of Beagle Channel, a strait in the Tierra del Fuego Archipelago.

DAY 2-3 | AT SEA - CROSSING THE DRAKE PASSAGE SOUTHBOUND
Sailing onward, we cross the famed Drake Passage - the body of water separating Patagonia and the Antarctic Peninsula. The Drake Passage is known for rollicking conditions and strong westerly winds, nicknamed the Roaring Fifties. While this passage may be challenging, you can rest comfortably aboard our expedition vessels, which are purpose-built with stabilizers, powerful engines and manned by a highly-qualified crew. The most spirited sailors consider Drake Passage a lifetime achievement - and you will complete the crossing twice!

Our days in the Drake Passage will be put to good use preparing for our arrival in Antarctica - your Expedition Leader will brief you comprehensively on how to stay safe and minimise your impact on this precious wilderness, as well as briefing you thoroughly on our plans for our time spent exploring, including hints and tips for wildlife watching. Our dedicated Expedition Team will assist you to biosecure your clothing and equipment (a vital process to protect Antarctica's delicate ecology), as well as sharing tailored lectures on Antarctic exploration history, wildlife, geology, glaciology and more!

We will cross into the Antarctic Convergence on the third day of our voyage - watch the mercury plummet as we sail southwards into Antarctic waters, an abrupt cooling that marks the intersection of Antarctic waters with the warmer waters of the Atlantic and Pacific Oceans. As the sea cools, wildlife multiplies; these are some of the most biologically productive water on Earth, so expect to see petrels, albatrosses and potentially penguins, seals and whales in abundance. Weather permitting, we may be able to make landfall in the South Shetland Islands (a small but spectacular archipelago to the north of the Antarctic Peninsula) on the afternoon of our second day in the Drake Passage, marking the start of our exploration on the Last Continent.

DAY 4-7 | SOUTH SHETLAND ISLANDS & THE ANTARCTIC PENINSULA
Over the next days, we will enjoy a safe and exciting Antarctic experience explorers of yesteryear could only dream of.

Our Antarctic adventure begins in the South Shetland Islands. This chain of rugged rocks marks the northernmost point of Antarctica, and the most exposed to the fury of the Southern Ocean. Because of this, it is also one of the richest in terms of wildlife, with large Gentoo and Chinstrap Penguin colonies, and an abundance of large seabirds such as predatory Giant Petrels. The ice-clad mountains of Livingstone, Greenwich and King George Islands give us a glimpse of what is to come as we venture further south. Landing sites which may be visited in the South Shetland Islands include the black steaming sands and rusting ruins of Deception Island (an active volcanic crater), the bustling penguin colonies of Aitcho and Half Moon Islands, or the old sealers' anchorage of Yankee Harbour.

The following days will be spent exploring further south on the Antarctic Peninsula in the Gerlache Strait region. This region is typically icy, so our exact route will be subject to careful planning by the Expedition Leader and Captain - however we will aim to visit a range of sites which showcase the best of this staggeringly beautiful region.

Consisting of the 'spine' of the Antarctic Peninsula and a large number of glaciated and mountainous islands, the Gerlache Strait is what comes to mind when most people think of Antarctica. Marvel at the massive icebergs and vast glaciers on a Zodiac cruise in Paradise Bay. Be moved by penguins tenderly caring for their precious eggs, and fiercely defending their nests on Cuverville Island. Watch cataracts of ice tumble into clear blue ocean on a hike over the active glaciers of Neko Harbour. Experience the Antarctica of old at historic huts such as Damoy Point, lovingly restored and open to all. Feel the spray of water from the blow of a humpback whale on a Zodiac safari in Wilhelmina Bay. Wonder at awe-inspiring scenery on a ship cruise through the Lemaire Channel. Wherever we go on the Antarctic Peninsula, endemic wildlife, tantalising history and breathtaking natural beauty abound.

While wind, ice and sea conditions will dictate our precise destinations and timings, our plans will be explained to guests during regularly scheduled evening briefings with your Expedition Leader; these nightly sessions are also an excellent opportunity to hear from your knowledgeable Expedition Team, who will explain and expand on our experiences to ensure guests get the most from their voyage.

On Antarctica, all human activity is subject to the whims of Mother Nature. While we will make every possible effort to maximise opportunities for exploration off the vessel, the safety of our guests and crew is our top priority. We therefore ask all our guests to join the expedition spirit and be flexible - harsh weather offers the opportunity to expand your knowledge of Antarctica with lectures from our expert Expedition Team, or to enjoy the superlative comfort of our vessels, be it wine-tasting, relaxing in the hot tubs, or recharging with a relaxing massage in our Spa.

DAY 8-9 |AT SEA - CROSSING THE DRAKE PASSAGE NORTHBOUND
We eventually depart Antarctica, and spend two days at sea on our way northwards back across the infamous Drake Passage towards the more welcoming shores of the Beagle Channel and Ushuaia, Argentina. During our time at sea, a variety of activities will be arranged on board to provide our 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!

DAY 10 | BACK TO USHUAIA AND DISEMBARKATION
On the morning of the final day of our voyage, we will arrive back at the pier of Ushuaia, Argentina. Trees, grass and a busy 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.


© ALB
© ALB
© Jonas Beyer


INCLUSIONS

10-day cruise with accommodation in a shared double stateroom featuring ensuite facilities
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
Digital visual journal link distributed after the voyage, including voyage log, gallery, species list and more!

EXCLUSIONS

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 16 per person per day)
Personal expenses (e.g. Albatros Polar Spa services, Albatros Ocean Boutique purchases)
Anything not mentioned under 'Inclusions'


Dates & Rates


Ship: Ocean Albatros | Date: 06 Dec 2024 - 15 Dec 2024 (2798)
CAT G - Single
$15,195
CAT F -Triple
$8,995
CAT E
$12,795
CAT D
$11,695
CAT C
$13,795
CAT B
$15,695
CAT A
$21,395
Premium Suite
$24,095
Family Suite
$26,695
Ship: Ocean Albatros | Date: 26 Dec 2024 - 04 Jan 2025 (2689)
CAT G - Single
$16,195
CAT F -Triple
$9,395
CAT E
$13,495
CAT D
$12,395
CAT C
$14,595
CAT B
$15,995
CAT A
$22,595
Premium Suite
$25,595
Family Suite
$28,195
Ship: Ocean Albatros | Date: 21 Jan 2025 - 30 Jan 2025 (2799)
CAT G - Single
$15,995
CAT F -Triple
$9,495
CAT E
$13,495
CAT D
$12,395
CAT C
$14,595
CAT B
$16,095
CAT A
$22,695
Premium Suite
$25,595
Family Suite
$28,195
Ship: Ocean Victory | Date: 16 Feb 2025 - 25 Feb 2025 (2801)
Cat G
$15,095
Cat F
$8,995
Cat E
$12,895
Cat D
$11,895
Cat C
$13,595
Cat B
$15,295
Cat A
$21,695
Premium Suite
$24,095
Ship: Ocean Victory | Date: 25 Feb 2025 - 06 Mar 2025 (2386)
Cat G
$15,095
Cat F
$8,995
Cat E
$12,895
Cat D
$11,895
Cat C
$13,595
Cat B
$15,295
Cat A
$21,695
Premium Suite
$24,095
Ship: Ocean Albatros | Date: 03 Mar 2025 - 12 Mar 2025 (2379)
CAT G - Single
$14,395
CAT F -Triple
$8,495
CAT E
$12,095
CAT D
$11,095
CAT C
$12,995
CAT B
$14,395
CAT A
$20,195
Premium Suite
$22,795
Family Suite
$25,095
Ship: Ocean Albatros 2025 | Date: 08 Nov 2025 - 17 Nov 2025 (2881)
G- Single
$12,895
$10,960
F- Triple
$8,795
$7,475
E
$10,795
$9,175
D
$10,195
$8,665
C
$11,095
$9,430
Csp
$11,695
$9,940
Cxl
$12,295
$10,450
B
$14,595
$12,405
A
$18,695
$15,890
Premium Suite
$20,995
$17,845
Family Suite
$20,995
$17,845
Ship: Ocean Albatros 2025 | Date: 03 Jan 2026 - 12 Jan 2026 (2882)
G- Single
$14,095
$11,980
F- Triple
$9,595
$8,155
E
$11,795
$10,025
D
$11,195
$9,515
C
$12,195
$10,365
Csp
$12,795
$10,875
Cxl
$13,395
$11,385
B
$15,995
$13,595
A
$20,495
$17,420
Premium Suite
$22,995
$19,545
Family Suite
$22,995
$19,545
Ship: Ocean Albatros 2025 | Date: 23 Jan 2026 - 01 Feb 2026 (2883)
G- Single
$14,395
$12,235
F- Triple
$9,795
$8,325
E
$12,095
$10,280
D
$11,495
$9,770
C
$12,395
$10,535
Csp
$13,095
$11,130
Cxl
$13,695
$11,640
B
$16,395
$13,935
A
$20,895
$17,760
Premium Suite
$23,495
$19,970
Family Suite
$23,495
$19,970
Ship: Ocean Albatros 2025 | Date: 01 Feb 2026 - 10 Feb 2026 (2884)
G- Single
$14,395
$12,235
F- Triple
$9,795
$8,325
E
$12,095
$10,280
D
$11,495
$9,770
C
$12,395
$10,535
Csp
$13,095
$11,130
Cxl
$13,695
$11,640
B
$16,395
$13,935
A
$20,895
$17,760
Premium Suite
$23,495
$19,970
Family Suite
$23,495
$19,970
Ship: Ocean Albatros 2025 | Date: 10 Feb 2026 - 19 Feb 2026 (2885)
G- Single
$14,395
$12,235
F- Triple
$9,795
$8,325
E
$12,095
$10,280
D
$11,495
$9,770
C
$12,395
$10,535
Csp
$13,095
$11,130
Cxl
$13,695
$11,640
B
$16,395
$13,935
A
$20,895
$17,760
Premium Suite
$23,495
$19,970
Family Suite
$23,495
$19,970
Ship: Ocean Albatros 2025 | Date: 11 Mar 2026 - 20 Mar 2026 (2886)
G- Single
$11,895
$10,110
F- Triple
$8,095
$6,880
E
$9,995
$8,495
D
$9,495
$8,070
C
$10,295
$8,750
Csp
$10,795
$9,175
Cxl
$11,395
$9,685
B
$13,495
$11,470
A
$17,295
$14,700
Premium Suite
$19,495
$16,570
Family Suite
$19,495
$16,570

* The prices are per person in US Dollars, unless expressly specified in a different currency. In that case, payment will be in US dollars at the exchange rate of the day.
** All prices will be re-confirmed by email at the time of booking.
NOTE: Embracing the unexpected is part of the legacy—and excitement—of expedition travel. When traveling in extremely remote regions, your expedition staff must allow the sea, the ice and the weather to guide route and itinerary details. This itinerary is a tentative outline of what you’ll experience on this voyage; please be aware that no specific itinerary can be guaranteed.

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