Highlights Of The Southern Spring
Highlights
- Encounter incredible wildlife, from penguins to whales and seals, in the pristine wilderness of the Antarctic Peninsula.
- Explore the awe-inspiring Gerlache Strait, where glittering ice cliffs and precipitous peaks dominate the landscape.
- Enjoy Zodiac landings and cruises allowing you to experience penguin rookeries and witness majestic giant icebergs up close.
Join us onboard the purpose-built, ice-class expedition vessel Ocean Albatros to experience the majesty and wonder of Earth’s last frontier up close and personal. Get closer to nature with a fleet of Zodiac landing craft, a team of experienced expert expedition guides, and the Antarctic Peninsula as our spectacular destination.
Departing Argentina’s southernmost city of Ushuaia, we cross the mighty Drake Passage en-route to the South Shetland Islands, aiming to arrive on the afternoon of the third day of our voyage (weather permitting). The ship’s unique X-Bow design offers exceptional stability at sea, giving you a smoother ride across some of Earth’s most challenging waters, while the vessel’s speed allows us to maximise our time in Antarctica to offer a superlative exploration experience.
Continuing southward, we will delve deeper into the inlets and bays of the Antarctic Peninsula, entering the famous Gerlache Strait, where glittering ice cliffs and precipitous peaks rise straight out of the frigid water. Icebergs, glaciers, mountains and rugged snowfields characterise this wildly beautiful landscape. Our skilled Captain and Expedition Leader will work hard to maximise opportunities to explore the White Continent. While wind, sea and ice conditions will dictate the exact locations we will visit, we will make Zodiac landings to allow guests to set foot on land and experience penguin rookeries, spectacular landscapes and historical sites, and aim to Zodiac cruise in scenic areas filled with giant icebergs, whales and seals. We always aim to visit locations which showcase the best of Antarctica; while wildlife sighting are of course subject to the whims of Mother Nature, a variety of penguin, whale and seal species can all be found in this inhospitable wilderness. Jaw-dropping scenery and landscapes are guaranteed!
Any voyage to Antarctica is an adventure, but visiting in the early spring offers unique experienc...
Standard Activities
About the Highlights Of The Southern Spring
Join us onboard the purpose-built, ice-class expedition vessel Ocean Albatros to experience the majesty and wonder of Earth’s last frontier up close and personal. Get closer to nature with a fleet of Zodiac landing craft, a team of experienced expert expedition guides, and the Antarctic Peninsula as our spectacular destination.
Departing Argentina’s southernmost city of Ushuaia, we cross the mighty Drake Passage en-route to the South Shetland Islands, aiming to arrive on the afternoon of the third day of our voyage (weather permitting). The ship’s unique X-Bow design offers exceptional stability at sea, giving you a smoother ride across some of Earth’s most challenging waters, while the vessel’s speed allows us to maximise our time in Antarctica to offer a superlative exploration experience.
Continuing southward, we will delve deeper into the inlets and bays of the Antarctic Peninsula, entering the famous Gerlache Strait, where glittering ice cliffs and precipitous peaks rise straight out of the frigid water. Icebergs, glaciers, mountains and rugged snowfields characterise this wildly beautiful landscape. Our skilled Captain and Expedition Leader will work hard to maximise opportunities to explore the White Continent. While wind, sea and ice conditions will dictate the exact locations we will visit, we will make Zodiac landings to allow guests to set foot on land and experience penguin rookeries, spectacular landscapes and historical sites, and aim to Zodiac cruise in scenic areas filled with giant icebergs, whales and seals. We always aim to visit locations which showcase the best of Antarctica; while wildlife sighting are of course subject to the whims of Mother Nature, a variety of penguin, whale and seal species can all be found in this inhospitable wilderness. Jaw-dropping scenery and landscapes are guaranteed!
Any voyage to Antarctica is an adventure, but visiting in the early spring offers unique experiences. See penguins coming ashore to build their nests, and compete for mates. Marvel at the snowy untouched landscapes, and experience the magic of spring sunsets over the frozen mountains. Embark on a thrilling 9-day expedition to the Antarctic Peninsula and immerse yourself in action-packed spring days on the Last Continent with us!
Itinerary Day to Day
Arrival in Ushuaia
Fly from the Argentina capital of Buenos Aires and arrive in Ushuaia, Argentina – the world’s southernmost city. Fresh southern breezes and the squawks of gulls greet guests upon arrival at a city proud to call itself the End of the World. Ascend the hills above the city and check into your beautifully appointed pre-voyage hotel, the perfect place to relax with a glass of Malbec after travel, or the ideal gateway to explore this magnificent region.
Before your Antarctic adventure, explore this vibrant Patagonian city, shop for handmade crafts, or stretch your legs in the surrounding forests. Alternatively, consider a day trip off the beaten path into the raw nature of Tierra del Fuego. The island of Tierra del Fuego is a hiker’s paradise with rugged snow-capped mountains, glaciers, flower-filled meadows and rich boggy wetlands holding unique wildlife, from guanacos to condors.
Embarkation
At sea - Crossing the Drake Passage Southbound
South Shetland Islands and Antarctic Peninsula
At sea - Crossing the Drake Passage northbound
Ushuaia, disembarkation
Route Map
Discover Antarctica and the Arctic in a whole new way with exciting kayaking adventures! Glide through the waters and take in the royal grace of the icebergs, see the wildlife in their natural habitat, all while being guided safely by our experienced kayak guide team.
Discover Kayaking:
In this program, guests will have the opportunity to kayak once during the entire voyage. The groups consist of 14 participants. Advanced booking is recommended*. Additional outings can be purchased on board, subject to availability.
Immersive Kayaking:
Starting from Antarctica 2026/27 Season, this new program is designed for guests who want to kayak as much as possible during their voyage on most excursions and landings. Immersive Kayaking is limited to 10 participants. Advanced booking is highly recommended.
Availability: Kayaking is available on all ships and trips* if conditions permit.
Outing Frequency by Voyage Type: Immersive Kayakers may paddle during most landings and excursions, weather permitting. Discover Kayaking participants go out once per voyage, with available spots varying by itinerary.
Excursion Duration: Most kayaking excursions last between 1–3 hours.
Requirements: Participants must be 14+, have prior kayaking experience, and attend a mandatory safety briefing with the Kayak Master.
Weather conditions: Weather, sea, and ice conditions will dictate the when and where to ensure your safety and improve your experience. The expedition leader will do their best to ensure the kayaking activity takes place.
Booking: You can pre-book your prefered kayak experience before your voyage starts. If there are available spots left, you can also book it once you are onboard. We highly recommend pre-booking. If onboard there are more sign-ups than available spots, a lottery system will be used to allocate spaces fairly.
Switching Programs: Guests can switch between Discover and Immersive Kayaking on board, space permitting. Price differences apply when upgrading to Immersive. No refunds are offered when downgrading from Immersive to Discover.
Price:
- Discover Kayaking: $350
- Inmersive kayaking: $1195 (26-27 season)
Equipment Provided: We supply HDPE tandem kayaks, paddles, dry suits, PFDs, and neoprene gloves (pogies). Guests should bring warm layers and follow the preparation guidelines sent before departure.
*Kayaking is offered on all ships and all trips if conditions allow.
The snowshoe program is not intended to take place during all landing activities, but rather when the weather, terrain and snow conditions are appropriate. The Snowshoe Master will present an introduction to the snowshoe program and the equipment for all guests with interest, on a workshop before introduction of this activity.
This adventure activity will run separate from, though simultaneous to, Zodiac cruising and landing activities. This activity is dependent on suitable snow conditions and appropriate terrain as agreed upon by our expedition team.
The snowshoe program is conducted and supervised by experienced mountain guides who dictate the route based on site guidelines and conditions at the time of each outing.
Snowshoeing is offered on all ships and all trips during the early season departures (Antarctica; November to December) if conditions allow.
Duration: The duration is approximately 2 – 3 hours.
The Photography Program is a unique opportunity for photographers to capture the beauty of Antarctica and its wildlife while cruising on an expedition ship. The program is designed to provide photographers with the skills, knowledge, and assistance with guidance from our appointed polar photography experts.
Our dedicated onboard professional Photographer Guide (1 per 10 guests) will lead workshops and provide instructions to help participants develop their technical skills and artistic vision for the duration of the voyage.
The program will focus on capturing images of the landscape and wildlife of Antarctica. Participants will have the opportunity to photograph icebergs, glaciers, penguins, seals, whales, and other wildlife with the guidance of the dedicated photography guide to capture the best possible shot of their subject (however, please note, no specific wildlife is guaranteed as per any landing and zodiac cruise activity).
Participants will have the chance to move in smaller groups and to disembark for zodiac cruises and landing as a first group to maximize the chance of capturing the best possible shots.
The Photography Program in Antarctica onboard our expedition ship is a once-in-a-lifetime experience for photographers. It provides the opportunity to capture stunning imagery of one of the most beautiful and remote places on earth while developing technical skills.
Price:
- $ 495/Person on selected expeditions to the Antarctic Peninsula
- $ 695/Person on Complete West Greenland and Wild Isles of the South Atlantic
- $ 995/Person on selected Falkland Islands, South Georgia and Antarctic Peninsula expedtions
Booking: You need to prebook the excursion before the voyage.
Would you like to experience the ultimate Antarctic expedition adventure, like the original explorers did? Then join us for a night under the open skies on the actual Antarctic Peninsula!
Cuddled up in a warm, snug and weatherproof sleeping bag, listening to the sounds of distant whale blows, penguins’ squeaks and shifting icebergs, Antarctic Open Air Camping is truly a memorable experience.
After dinner onboard the ship, our expedition team will take you to shore, where you will be a part of preparing your camp for the night. Once you decide on the location within the set perimeter, you will level out your own spot in the snow, fix the base cover, insulated pad, and warm sleeping bag – and get ready for a night like no other.
Camping in Antarctica is limited to 30 participants, who all need to participate in the briefing prior to the camp activity. It is provided all the special camping and bivouac gear for this outing, allowing you to stay warm, dry, and protected for all weather types while you enjoy the beauty of the Antarctic wilderness. For the ultimate camping experience, we use a wind and waterproof yet still breathable bivy bag, offering you the possibility to watch the amazing Antarctic night skies.
Our experienced expedition guides stay in constant radio contact with the ship and ensure that you have a safe and unforgettable night.
What's Included
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Airport-resort-vessel-Ushuaia city center/airport transfer shuttles
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1 night pre-departure hotel stay in Ushuaia at a 5-star resort
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9-day/8-night cruise with accommodation in a shared double stateroom featuring ensuite facilities, including:
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All Zodiac landings and excursions, as per itinerary, guided by our Expedition Team
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Premium thermal liner underjacket to keep
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Expedition parka & rubber boots loan scheme
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Briefings and lectures by our Expedition Leader and Team
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English-speaking Expedition Team
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Full board on the ship - breakfast, lunch, dinner and snacks
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Complimentary house wine, beer and soda at lunch and dinner (selected labels and brands, served at our a-la-carte dinners)
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Free tea, coffee, and “Grab and Go” comfort food available 24 hours
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Taxes and landing fees
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Citizen Science & Future Scientist Residency Program
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500MB Complimentary WiFi
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Welcome and Farewell Cocktail Parties
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Digital Voyage Memories at the end of the expedition, including a curated selection of photos, videos, voyage log, map, and wildlife list
What's Excluded
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Mandatory travel insurance
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Extra excursions and activities not mentioned in the itinerary
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Single room supplement and stateroom upgrades
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Meals not on board the ship
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Beverages (other than coffee and tea)
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Tips for the crew (we recommend USD 16 per person per day)
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Personal expenses
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Anything not mentioned under ’Inclusions’