Antarctic Classic on the M/V Ocean Victory - M/V Ocean Albatros

10 days - 9 nights

Day 1 - Ushuaia: Embarkation

In the afternoon, we embark from the port of Ushuaia to begin our adventure to Antarctica. We will complete a mandatory safety drill before setting sail. Our Antarctic expedition begins by sailing through the calm waters of the iconic Beagle Channel, named after the ship used by the famous Charles Darwin. This rugged strait divides southern Tierra del Fuego between Chile and Argentina and is the starting point for many expeditions that have traveled to Antarctica. As we head toward Drake Passage, we are accompanied by whales and dolphins heading south.

Days 2 to 3 - Crossing the Drake Passage, arriving at the South Shetland Islands

Sailing to Antarctica, we will cross the Drake Passage, the body of water that separates the Atlantic Ocean from the Pacific Ocean. The Drake Passage is famous for its strong westerly winds, known as the "Roaring Fifties," where weather conditions are highly changeable. This is a challenging voyage; our expedition vessels are prepared to navigate these latitudes, specifically built with stabilizers, powerful engines, and manned by highly qualified crews for this Antarctic challenge. Experienced sailors consider the Drake Passage a lifetime achievement, a special challenge. These two days are ideal to prepare for our arrival on the White Continent. Our expedition team will provide us with the necessary information and guide us through future exploration plans, such as how to observe wildlife and how to bioprotect clothing and equipment, which is a fundamental process for maintaining the fragile ecology of Antarctica. There will also be talks on exploration, wildlife, geology, and glaciology of Antarctica.

On the third day, we will cross the Antarctic Convergence. The mercury plummets as we sail south into Antarctic waters, an abrupt cooling that marks the intersection of Antarctic waters with the warmer Atlantic and Pacific oceans. As the sea cools, wildlife multiplies; these are some of the most biologically productive waters in the world, where we may observe petrels, albatrosses, and possibly penguins, seals, and whales in abundance. Weather permitting, we may land in the South Shetland Islands (a small but spectacular archipelago north of the Antarctic Peninsula) on the afternoon of our second day in Drake Passage, marking the beginning of our exploration of the Last Continent.

Days 4 to 7- South Shetland Islands & Antarctic Peninsula

Over the next few days, we'll enjoy a safe and exciting Antarctic experience that 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. As a result, it's also one of the richest places for wildlife, with large colonies of gentoo and chinstrap penguins, and a host of large seabirds like the predatory giant petrels. The ice-covered mountains of Livingstone, Greenwich, and King George Islands offer a glimpse of what awaits us as we venture further south. Landing sites to visit in the South Shetland Islands include the steaming black sands and rusty ruins of Deception Island (an active volcanic crater), the bustling penguin colonies of Aitcho and Half Moon Islands, and the former sealers' anchorage at Yankee Harbor.

The next few days will be spent exploring further south on the Antarctic Peninsula, in the Gerlache Strait region. This region is often icy, so our exact route will depend on careful planning by the Expedition Leader and Captain. However, our goal will be to visit a variety of sites that showcase the best of this astonishingly beautiful region. Formed by the backbone of the Antarctic Peninsula and a large number of glaciated and mountainous islands, the Gerlache Strait is the first thing that comes to mind when most people think of Antarctica. Marvel at enormous icebergs and vast glaciers on a Zodiac cruise through Paradise Bay. Be moved by penguins tenderly guarding their precious eggs and fiercely defending their nests on Cuverville Island. Watch icefalls tumble into the crystal-clear ocean during a hike among the active glaciers of Neko Harbour. Experience Antarctica of yesteryear in historic huts like Damoy Point, painstakingly restored and open to all. Feel the spray of a humpback whale on a Zodiac safari through Wilhelmina Bay. Marvel at stunning scenery on a cruise through the Lemaire Channel. Wherever we go on the Antarctic Peninsula, endemic wildlife, fascinating history, and stunning natural beauty abound.

While wind, ice, and sea conditions will determine our destinations and schedules, we will explain our plans during regularly scheduled evening briefings with your Expedition Leader. These evening sessions are also an excellent opportunity to hear from your expert Expedition Team, who will explain and expand on our experiences to ensure guests get the most out of their trip. In Antarctica, all human activity is subject to the whims of Mother Nature. While we will do our best to maximize opportunities for exploration off the ship, the safety of our guests and crew is our top priority. That's why we ask all our guests to embrace the expedition spirit and remain flexible: the harsh climate 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, whether by wine tasting, relaxing in the whirlpools, or recharging with a soothing massage in our spa.

Days 8 to 9 - At Sea: Crossing the Drake Passage northward

Finally, we will depart Antarctica and spend two days at sea heading north, crossing back through the infamous Drake Passage to the welcoming shores of the Beagle Channel and Ushuaia, Argentina. During our voyage, various onboard activities will allow our guests to reflect on their journey. Relax with an expertly crafted cocktail in the Nordic Bar with new friends, enjoy the knowledge and passion of our Expedition Team during talks in the Shackleton Lounge, or simply watch the albatrosses fly by as we journey north. During your final evening on board, join the Captain and officers for a farewell cocktail reception, followed by a photo and video presentation by our onboard photographer—the perfect opportunity to relive your Antarctic adventure.

Day 10 - Disembarkation in Ushuaia

On the morning of the final day of our voyage, we will arrive back at the pier in Ushuaia, Argentina. Trees, grass, and a bustling city may seem strange after the white wilderness of Antarctica! After a hearty breakfast, it's time to bid a fond farewell to the crew and the Albatross expedition team and descend the gangway back to dry land with the memories of an unforgettable journey.