M/V Ocean Albatros

Practical Information

• Bridge
  Due to its important role as the control center for all nautical and technical processes, the ship's bridge is a vital and sensitive location. Therefore, the bridge may not be accessible to the public at all times. If conditions permit, we will be happy to welcome you to the bridge for a visit. Guests must be accompanied by the captain or our expedition leader.
• Hot Tubs
  The ship features two hot tubs on the upper outer deck (deck 7), offering spectacular views of the polar landscape in a relaxing environment.
  Please note that there are no lifeguards on duty, and the hot tubs will not be accessible if weather and wind conditions make them unsafe for use. Use of these facilities is expected on certain calm days and within certain hours, so if you plan to use them, please check with the expedition staff on board. The hot tubs can normally be used much more frequently and while the ship is in motion.
• Housekeeping
  Your cabin receives daily service. We provide turndown service. Room service meals are provided only for serious cases of ill guests. Our suites will have VIP services.
• Cabin Layout/Dimensions
  Please note! The layout, illustration, and dimensions of cabin categories shown are for illustrative purposes only and may not be an exact representation of the cabins. Actual cabin layouts and sizes may vary.
• Zodiac Landings
  A feature of our expedition cruises includes landings and excursions aboard Ocean Albatros's fleet of 18 motorized rubber "Zodiac" boats. The Zodiac brand has earned a well-deserved reputation as the most rugged and safe small boat available. These boats have shallow drafts and great stability. Zodiacs are built for professional use and are equipped with a first-class outboard motor, but their design minimally impacts the environment.
  Zodiacs are designed to provide unrestricted access to the world's last great frontier. Their versatility allows us to land on remote shores, cruise along impressive coastlines, and share incredibly close encounters with whales, seals, penguins, seabirds, and more. We'll come within arm's reach of icebergs and set foot on land discovered by pioneer explorers just over a century ago.
  Your safety and comfort are our #1 priority, and your expedition leader will carefully plan as many Zodiac excursions as possible, depending on local weather and prevailing conditions. In each case, the expedition leader makes the final decision if landing is possible or not. Safety regulations apply at landings. All guests receive mandatory instruction on safety guidelines. Wearing life jackets is mandatory.
  Please note that we strongly recommend using waterproof bags to protect your personal camera or binoculars, as both hands must be free during boarding. Participation is quite easy and comfortable for guests without physical disabilities but may be more challenging for those with physical disabilities.
• Cruise Card / Payments / Credit Cards
  Upon embarkation, you will receive your personal cruise card, which you must carry at all times. This card is used on board as a payment instrument (except in the onboard shop), key card, and ID document. All onboard purchases at the bar, telephone, laundry, and similar are charged to your ship account.
  To activate your personal cruise card account, we accept Visa, MasterCard, and American Express credit cards. Alternatively, you can deposit cash (US$ or EUR/US$-EUR exchange rate). At the end of the voyage, your account will be settled using the aforementioned payment methods.
  There is no currency exchange office aboard the ship. Payment on board will be completed with your cruise card. For shore stays during the cruise, we recommend exchanging a minimal amount of local currency in small bills, as most ports and airports have exchange offices. Alternatively, many shops and restaurants accept international credit cards. In larger ports and cities, you have the possibility to withdraw cash from ATMs.
  If you choose to leave a tip for the crew, the amount you authorize will be charged to the ship account. This account can be activated with a major credit card. Please be sure to contact your credit card provider regarding the use of your credit cards abroad. Any questions about the bill can be directed to the ship's hotel manager.
• Gratuities
  Following international standards in the service industry, it is customary to leave a tip for the ship's crew at the end of the voyage. All tips will be divided among the crew. Typically, the recommended amount is approximately USD 14 per person per day. Tipping, of course, is not mandatory and any gratuity payment is voluntary.
  If you choose to leave a tip for the crew, the amount you authorize will be charged to the ship account.
• Dress Code
  The dress code aboard is casual. Ties, jackets, and evening dresses can be left at home. It is more important to wear appropriate clothing to suit the different weather conditions. We recommend comfortable, breathable, waterproof, and windproof clothing. Additionally, you should have a pair of gloves, thermal wear, and sturdy footwear in your luggage. For the captain's and farewell cocktails, we recommend smart casual attire.
  For specific packing recommendations, please refer to the specific itinerary of interest.
• Environment
  As a cruise tour operator in the Polar Regions, which are some of the world's most pristine environments, we extremely emphasize environmental awareness and sustainability. One of our main priorities is to protect the environment and minimize our CO2 emissions. All waste will remain aboard the ship until we return to land and disposal is possible.
  We ask you to show deep respect for the unique nature and act according to the motto: leave nothing but footprints, take nothing but memories.
• Internet / Phone
  Please note that we will be sailing in a very remote region of the world. Where accessible, Internet access is available for an additional charge. Mobile phone reception may be possible in selected regions along our route. For further details, contact your mobile operator. Prices can be found in the information folder in your cabin. Make sure your 'Data Roaming' function is turned off.
• Language on Board
  The official language aboard our ships is English; however, our expedition leaders and crew are knowledgeable in several languages. If there is a large group wishing to communicate in their own language, we will make special arrangements to accommodate their needs.
• Passport / Visa
  Each passenger is responsible for ensuring that they meet the applicable passport and visa requirements for the duration of the trip. A passport is the only valid proof of identity for all travels with Ocean Albatros. Your passport must be valid for a minimum of 6 months after returning home from your destination. Although some countries may require shorter periods, we implement this 6-month prerequisite to avoid situations where a country's validity requirements might be modified between the time of your booking and departure. The name in your passport must be identical to the name on all travel documentation. Costs incurred due to insufficient travel documents are the responsibility of the passenger.
  Please note that passports will be collected for clearance procedures at the start of the voyage. Passports will be kept secure by the crew throughout the voyage and returned on the last day. Therefore, we recommend preparing copies of all documents before the start of the tour.
• Reception
  The ship's reception daily office hours are from 06:00 to 23:00.
• Ocean Albatros Shop
  The selection of items available for purchase varies by ship and may include a range of warm and practical clothing as well as souvenirs, local crafts, and postcards at reasonable prices. A small selection of soap, toothpaste, and other personal effects is also sold.
• Available Seating Capacity
  Shackleton Conference Room: 185
  Nordic Lounge: 50
  Restaurant: 166
  Specialty Restaurant: 40
  Observation Lounge: 67
  Panorama Specialty Restaurant: 46
• Health / Medical Emergency
  Each of our ships has a small medical facility equipped with necessary equipment and medicines to handle minor emergencies. The infirmary is always staffed by a professional licensed English-speaking doctor. If a serious incident occurs, the nearest hospital will be contacted. All guests must have personal travel/health insurance.
  Although we have no official requirement regarding personal physical condition, you must be able to move about on board and ashore without the assistance of others.
  For safety reasons, a cruise is only possible for pregnant women up to week 24 of pregnancy. The pregnancy status must be presented by means of a medical certificate.
• Safety on Board
  Our ships comply with all safety regulations and are ice-class vessels suitable for sailing in polar environments. Upon arrival at the ship, there will be a mandatory passenger briefing and safety drill before departure. We will provide safety information, practical details about life on board, and introduce key personnel. You will be informed where safety equipment is located and how it is used. Each cabin is equipped with life jackets. Once aboard, familiarize yourself with the ship's emergency rescue plan.
• Physical Disabilities / Wheelchair Accessibility
  The Ocean Victory has two cabins available for guests requiring wheelchair access. Guests who need any form of assistance and those who are physically disabled must be accompanied by someone who will assume full responsibility for any assistance needed during the cruise and in case of emergency.
  Additionally, guests requiring a wheelchair must provide their own collapsible wheelchair. Please note that some ports of call, shore excursions, docks, gangways, and other requirements may prevent a wheelchair guest from leaving the ship; this decision will be made by the Expedition Leader or ship's captain and is binding.
• Seasickness / Stabilizers
  The ship is equipped with stabilizers to reduce ship roll. However, these expeditions are conducted in remote regions and it is possible to encounter changing weather patterns and environments, including rough seas and large swells. Motion sickness patches (Scopoderm or similar) work solely or in part to help cure nausea in most people. These medications may cause drowsiness. If you are prone to motion sickness, please consult with your doctor before departure to help ensure your comfort during the voyage.
• Smoking
  For safety reasons and to protect the health of our guests and employees, smoking is only permitted in designated areas on the outer decks. Smoking is not permitted inside the ship, in cabins, or near the Zodiacs. Please remember to respect our natural environments and dispose of cigarette butts in designated containers.
• Special Dietary Requests
  All meals aboard the ship are prepared by the chef. If you have special dietary requirements (food allergies, intolerances, health conditions, or religious preferences), please inform us as soon as possible, ideally no later than 2 weeks before departure. To ensure efficient service, please reconfirm your requirements with the crew upon boarding the ship.
• Power Outlets
  The ship has a 220v / 50 Hz system. Check your appliances before using them. 110-volt appliances require an adapter before using them aboard the ship.
  Power outlets aboard the Ocean Albatros are the so-called 'Type F plugs', round 2-pin, 220-240V, with ground, used in continental Europe and Russia. They accept Type C, E, and F 2-pin plugs.
• Water
  There are several water stations aboard the Ocean Albatros. Normally, water is not rationed, but we advise our guests to pay attention to their water consumption.
• Laundry
  If you wish to wash some clothes while aboard the ship, laundry service is available for an additional charge.
• Onboard Briefings
  The Expedition Leader will conduct regularly scheduled briefings to highlight key points in the itinerary, organize excursions, and communicate important information.
• Children
  For safety precautions, children under 12 years will be taken into consideration at each landing. It is entirely at the discretion of the Expedition Leader to allow children to participate in excursions and shore landings.
• Itinerary and Program Changes
  As this is an expedition cruise to the world's most remote region, we are at the mercy of Mother Nature. We have planned itineraries for each tour package, but to ensure the safety of our guests and crew, we may be forced to change the route.
• Rules for Landings and Excursions
  When ashore, it is very important to show deep respect for the unique nature and act according to the motto: leave nothing but footprints, take nothing but memories. We also ask you to stay with your group, as we are truly in nature and must remain extra vigilant of the wildlife and weather conditions surrounding us. Independent walking is strictly prohibited. It is essential to comply with the strictly communicated safety rules.