Southern Ocean Odyssey

Nestled at the mouth of the Rio de la Plata, Montevideo shares its vast estuary with Buenos Aires, Argentina's bustling capital, across the water. Here, in this vibrant yet relaxed city, locals leisurely sip yerba mate along the seafront while the aroma of asado barbecues wafts on the ocean breeze.

Centrally situated in the bustling harbor, the Ocean Albatros awaits the expedition. Following the mandatory safety briefing, the journey commences as you sail through the tranquil waters of the Rio de la Plata. Bask in the sun on the outer decks as you bid farewell to South America and set the course towards the Falkland Islands (Islas Malvinas).

Tracing the ocean currents of the South Atlantic, you journey toward the seldom-explored Falkland Islands (Islas Malvinas).

Although the indigenous Yaghan people of Tierra del Fuego may have visited these lands, the Falklands were uninhabited when Europeans arrived in the early 16th Century. The islands' sovereignty has been a point of contention ever since, with historical claims from Spain, France, Britain, and Argentina. Tensions erupted in a conflict between Britain and Argentina in 1982, leaving a lasting impact. While the conflict spurred much-needed development assistance from the United Kingdom, it also resulted in extensive mining of the islands. Since then, the Falklands have thrived, capitalizing on their fishing resources. The demining operation was completed in 2020, marked by a celebratory football match between the islands' Governor and the Zimbabwean demining team who now call the Falklands home.

The waters surrounding the Falklands teem with marine life, including whales, seals, and penguins, thanks to the convergence of cold Antarctic waters with the warmer South Atlantic currents. Keep your binoculars handy for wildlife sightings, or join your Expedition Team for insights into the islands' captivating history, biology, and unique 'Kelper' culture, as the locals are known.

On the first day in the Falklands, venture to some of the outer islands in the West Falklands - 'Camp', as the locals call the area outside Stanley. The outer islands of the Falklands are much wilder and more remote than the mainland and host the majority of the islands' wildlife. Islands such as West Point, Carcass and Saunders are well known for their spectacular wildlife. Southern Rockhopper Penguins, Black-Browed Albatross, and King Cormorants commonly nest together in vast cliffside colonies; penguins nurture their eggs and chicks in clefts between large cylindrical nests where cormorants and albatross nest. Be sure to look out above to see the vast albatross coming into land (often less than gracefully)! The islands are home to a vast number of other bird species such as the endearingly cheeky Striated Caracara (watch all unattended possessions), and in the water, Commerson's dolphins and South American sea lions can be seen playing.

During the following morning, cast anchor in the sheltered natural harbor of Port Stanley in the early afternoon. Utilizing the Zodiacs, land in the center of this small city. Stanley is the only settlement on the islands of any size, with a population of around two thousand people. Behind the colorful buildings in neat rows, look closer and you'll notice a very distinctly British feel to Stanley - Victorian houses which could be on any swanky London terrace line the harbourfront; red telephone and post boxes stand by the jetty; whitewashed pubs serve fish and chips alongside foaming pints of ale. The Falkland Islanders are proud of their unique homeland and capital, and Stanley is a great place to explore and soak up the local vibe. Highlights in the city include Christchurch Cathedral, the southernmost Anglican cathedral on Earth, as well as excellent shops selling local products (watch out for high-quality woolen goods in particular!), cafes and pubs offering a warm welcome, and several excellent museums; visitors are spoiled for choice! A short drive or a pleasant walk from the city are several stunning beaches; formerly heavily mined, these are now open, and locals and foreigners alike often visit to see the abundant penguins and spectacular gold-white sands.

Sailing onward from Stanley, cross the infamous 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 Furious Fifties. While this passage may be challenging, you can rest comfortably aboard the expedition vessels, which are purpose-built with stabilizers, and powerful engines and manned by a highly-qualified crew. The most spirited sailors consider the Drake Passage a lifetime achievement - and you can complete the crossing twice!

The days in the Drake Passage can be put to good use preparing for the arrival in Antarctica - your Expedition Leader can brief you comprehensively on how to stay safe and minimize your impact on this precious wilderness, as well as brief you thoroughly on the plans for the time spent exploring, including hints and tips for wildlife watching. The dedicated Expedition Team can assist you in 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! 

Cross into the Antarctic Convergence on the second day at sea from the Falkland Islands - watch the mercury plummet as you 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.

Awake on the ninth day of the expedition to the glittering ice cliffs and drifting icebergs of the Antarctic Peninsula. The exact route can be subject to careful planning by the Expedition Leader and Captain and explained to the guests through regular evening briefings. However, aim to visit a range of sites that showcase the best of this staggeringly beautiful region.

Consisting of the 'spine' of the Antarctic Peninsula and a large number of mountainous glaciated islands, the Gerlache Strait is what comes to mind when most people think of Antarctica, and likely be the setting for the time in 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 the 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 you go on the Antarctic Peninsula, endemic wildlife, tantalizing history and breathtaking natural beauty abound.

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

The time in Antarctica concludes 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 epic ice-clad mountains of Livingstone, Greenwich, and King George Islands form a spectacular backdrop to an otherwise stark landscape. Sites that 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. From the South Shetland Islands, you can venture back into the Drake Passage, setting a course for Ushuaia, Argentina.

After departing Antarctica, spend two days at sea on your way northwards, back across the infamous Drake Passage towards the more welcoming shores of the Beagle Channel and Ushuaia, Argentina. During the time at sea, a variety of activities can be arranged on board to provide the 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 the Expedition Team during lectures in the Shackleton Lounge, or simply enjoy the flight of the albatross that accompanies you 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 your onboard photographer - the ideal opportunity to re-live your Antarctic adventure. Skål!

On the morning of the final day of the voyage, 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. 

During your last evening onboard, join the Captain and Officers for the Farewell Cocktail Party, followed by a presentation of photos and video by your onboard photographer - the ideal opportunity to re-live your Antarctic adventure. Skål!