Antarctic Expedition

Overview
Embark on a trip of a lifetime to the remote grandeur of Antarctica. The ice-crowned wonder is yours to discover on this incredible 18-day package taking in some of the world’s most rugged, remote and spectacular ecosystems, while also uncovering the highlights of Argentina’s urban and natural wonders.This incredible journey will have you travelling onboard one of Albatros Expeditions brand new expedition ships, 'Ocean Victory' or 'Ocean Albatros'. These revolutionary and stylish cruise ships combine the advantages of a small expedition vessel with the stability and comfort of a larger cruise ship.
Beginning in Argentina, enjoy a sightseeing tour of historic Buenos Aires; take in Tierra del Fuego National Park; and explore Ushuaia, the world’s southernmost town. Then, board the brand new ‘Ocean Victory’ or "Ocean Albatros' ship and cross the famed Drake Passage to arrive at the captivating South Shetland Islands. After exploring the landscapes and searching for wildlife, continue on to the Antarctic Peninsula, where you’ll enjoy outings to bays, islands and straits on Zodiac boats. The robust Zodiac boats allow those on board to see Antarctica from a very different perspective and do incredible landings in some very wild places.
This once-in-a-lifetime experience includes return international flights, six nights of quality hotel accommodation on tour, a 9-night Antarctic Cruise aboard a purpose-built ship, 32 meals, an English-speaking expedition team and plenty more.
Want more? Add extra days to your itinerary with Stay Behind in Buenos Aires, Argentina packages.
Tour Inclusions
- Discover the mysteries of Antarctica and Argentina
- Witness the highlights of Buenos Aires on a guided tour
- Explore the beautiful parks of the Recoleta and Palermo neighbourhoods
- See the Teatro Colón (Columbus Theatre), Mayo Square and more
- Enjoy a day at leisure in colourful Buenos Aires
- Discover Ushuaia, the world’s southernmost town
- Cruise to Antarctica during one of the busiest wildlife seasons
- Cross the famed Drake Passage, the crossroads of the Atlantic and Pacific Oceans
- Be captivated by the scenic South Shetland Islands
- Step foot on Antarctica with up to 2 x Zodiac Land excursions on selected days (weather permitting)
- Stop at Deception Island, an extinct volcano with warm waters
- Spot penguins, seals and whales near the Antarctic Peninsula
- Pass the famous Gerlache Strait, where 3000ft ice cliffs rise straight out of the still water
- Cruise past the legendary maritime landmark of Cape Horn
- Return international full-service flights (economy class), departure city surcharges may apply
- 1 x return internal flight between Buenos Aires and Ushuaia
- 9-night Albatros Expeditions Antarctica and South Shetland Islands cruise
- Sail aboard Albatros Expedition’s 'Ocean Albatros' or brand new 'Ocean Victory' ship
- Free upgrade to a balcony stateroom
- Guiding and lectures by expedition leaders and teams
- Small ship expedition with a maximum of 185 guests
- Complimentary 24-hour tea and coffee during cruise
- Visual Journal link after voyage including voyage log, gallery, maps & more
- Complimentary access to gym facilities and onboard library
- Complimentary welcome aboard and farewell cocktails
- 6 nights of 4-star hotel accommodation
- Enjoy 32 meals including all meals whilst cruising
- English-speaking expedition team
- English-speaking tour leader
- English-speaking guides
- Airline and cruise taxes and surcharges
- Transportation by private A/C vehicles
- Airport transfers
- Cruise terminal transfers
- Stay Behind: Return up to 30 days after your tour concludes (does not include hotel accommodation, meals or transfers)
- Optional Tours: Optional experiences and tours are available to add to your itinerary (see checkout for details)
- Cabin Upgrades: Cabin upgrades are available (see checkout for details)
- Flight Upgrades: Upgrade to Business Class (see checkout for details)
Itinerary Itinerary Brochure Download
Today depart from Sydney, Melbourne, Brisbane, Adelaide*, Perth* or Auckland* (New Zealand) for Buenos Aires, Argentina. Fly with airlines such as Qantas Airways, Latam Airways, Air New Zealand, United Airlines, Aerolineas Argentinas and partners (subject to availability).
Upon arrival at Buenos Aires Airport be welcomed and transferred to the hotel. Buenos Aires is one of the largest cities in Latin America, with a wide range of cultural offerings and stunning sights it is generally the starting point for most Argentinean experiences. Let yourself be seduced by its beautiful busy streets with its unique mixture of European and Latin cultures. Enjoy grand European palaces, cute cafés and abundant parks.
Please note: Due to flight times and scheduling some customers may be required to depart day 0. Flight times will be confirmed on your final documentation which you will receive at least 4-6 weeks prior to departure.
Overnight: Libertador Hotel Buenos Aires or similar
Meals included: In-Flight
Buenos Aires is also one of the most fascinating cities in both Latin America and the world. Be it for its splendid and varied architecture, with its old Colonial buildings, French-style palaces and modern skyscrapers; for its vibrant nightlife and endless cultural options; or maybe just for the rich identity of the local 'Porteños' who proudly bear the European heritage of their ancestors.
Today, you will enjoy a fascinating sightseeing tour of the elegant turn‐of‐the‐century districts that earned Buenos Aires the nickname of ‘the Paris of South America.’ From the colourful Caminito Street in La Boca, the charming cobbled alleys and colonial architecture of San Telmo along to the Plaza de Mayo, dominated by the Cathedral and original Parliament House, up the leafy Avenida de Mayo towards the imposing grandeur of the Palace of Congress and then on to finish at the elegant district of Recoleta, home to haute‐cuisine and haute‐couture alike as well as the famous cemetery where the country’s founding fathers and patrician families lie in style, Including Eva Perón. Here, the leafy avenues among towering stone angels and mausoleums the size of country cottages occupy a full four blocks on the opposite side of a delightful esplanade lined with some of the city’s best restaurants. Afterwards, return to the hotel.
Overnight: Libertador Hotel Buenos Aires or similar
Meals included: Breakfast
Today, after breakfast, enjoy the day to perhaps wander the historic streets and enjoy some of the local food and wine at your own pace. Alternatively, you can join one of the below optional tours (not included):
Optional Tour: El Ombu Ranch Full Day Tour - $310 per person
Enjoy a day in the countryside, where you can learn about the aspects of the Gaucho lifestyle. Heading to the outskirts of the city, the landscape begins to transform and the plain begins to take shape. This tour includes a quick stop at the gaucho town of San Antonio de Areco, to visit the Draghi museum, a silversmith workshop. Upon arrival at El Ombú ranch, there’s a welcome with empanadas and beverages. There’s some free time to enjoy horseback-riding or wagon-riding guided by the gauchos before a BBQ lunch with salads and dessert with water/softs and wine is included. During the afternoon there will be a singing and dancing folk show and a gaucho horse skill demonstration.
Optional Tour: Half-day Tigre & Delta with Boat Ride - $80 per person
Head north on a journey of 30 km to the City of Tigre, crossing parks and beautiful buildings. Upon arrival visit the imposing Rio de la Plata, the widest river in the world, then make a stop at the Puerto de Frutos, where you can visit a magnificent local market, with its small jetty bordering the Lujan River. When you arrive in Tigre, board a Panoramic Catamaran to enjoy the Paraná Delta. In quiet, stable and safe navigation, we can see a labyrinth of islands and islets crisscrossed by rivers and streams. This visit is an ideal way to learn about life on the islands, flora, fauna, recreation and water sports.
Optional Tour: Aljibe Dinner & Tango Show - $125 per person
In the very heart of San Telmo neighbourhood, this historic, fully-restored barn has become a classic of Buenos Aires’ culture and nightlife. This tango venue is a classic site along the route through Buenos Aires’ culture and customs. The interiors, which preserve the purest of the building, are the ideal setting for a unique proposal with artists on stage: two tango orchestras, a set of folk music, dancers and singers.
Overnight: Libertador Hotel Buenos Aires or similar
Meals included: Breakfast
Early this morning you will be picked up and transferred to Buenos Aires Airport for the internal flight to Ushuaia. Ushuaia is the southernmost city in Argentina. Due to its location near the South Pole, it has approximately 18 hours of sunlight in the summer, whereas in the winter only around 8. However, this does not prevent tourists from visiting. Its gastronomy and accommodation infrastructure meet all the expectations of thousands of international visitors per year that have chosen this beautiful city for the most spectacular voyages along the Beagle Channel and Lapataia Bay in Tierra del Fuego National Park. Ushuaia offers pristine places, waiting for you to discover them and live the adventure of being at “the world’s end”.
Upon arrival, be transferred to the hotel. Enjoy the rest of the day at leisure or take the opportunity to join a half-day tour to Tierra Del Fuego (not included).
Optional Tour: Tierra del Fuego National Park - $80 per person
The National Park represents the southernmost natural area, being the only one that has maritime coasts. The tour will show you the main highlights of this unique environment. It is reached by National Route No. 3 to the Southwest of Ushuaia, meeting on the road Río Pipo, Monte Susana, Ensenada Bay, sighting Redonda Island, Lake Roca, Casita del Bosque, Green and Black Lagoon, beaver dam, Lapataia Bay. The topography of the Park is extremely varied; everything is a succession of rugged mountains, rivers, valleys and lakes, giving rise to varied landscapes, from the picturesque and happy stream to the mole of imposing mountains, or the extraordinary spectacle of the majestic Beagle Channel. During the spring and summer, you can admire varied and colourful flowers, as well as the varied tree species. The most frequent mammals are the foxes and rabbits, also living in the Park the muskrat and the beaver. Among the birds, it has the exclusivity of having birds from marine environments, such as the black‐browed albatross, the oystercatcher overo, the white cauquén and also mammals, such as sea lions and sea otters.
Please note: Due to flight schedules and availability, some customers may be required to depart on a 04:25 flight.
Overnight: Los Acebos Hotel Ushuaia or similar
Meals included: Breakfast
Today enjoy the morning at leisure to explore Ushuaia, the world’s southernmost town. In the afternoon, be transferred to the cruise terminal to embark on the new Albatros Expedition ship which will become your home for the next 9 nights.
Overnight: Albatros Expedition's 'Ocean Albatros' or 'Ocean Victory' ship
Meals included: Breakfast; Dinner
Sailing onward, you will cross the famed Drake Passage - a body of water that marks the intersection of the cold Antarctic with the warmer Atlantic and Pacific Oceans. The Drake Passage is known for strong westerly winds, called the Roaring Fifties. While this passage may be challenging, you can rest confidently aboard the expedition vessel, ‘Ocean Victory’, which is purpose-built with stabilisers, powerful engines and a highly-qualified crew. The X-Bow®-Infinity class, which provides high stability in rough weather allows for the smoothest movements through unfavourable conditions. The most spirited sailors consider Drake Passage a lifetime achievement, and you will complete the crossing twice! In the Drake, the excitement builds as Antarctic wildlife comes into view. Weather permitting, you will catch your first sight of seals and penguins! The area is also well-known for its abundance of sea birds.
Overnight: Albatros Expedition's 'Ocean Albatros' or 'Ocean Victory' ship
Meals included: Breakfast; Lunch; Dinner
Overnight: Albatros Expedition's 'Ocean Albatros' or 'Ocean Victory' ship
Meals included: Breakfast; Lunch; Dinner
Over the next two days, begin an Antarctic experience of a lifetime! During these days you have the opportunity to explore the sub-Antarctic islands of the South Shetland chain and be captivated by the landscapes you will encounter along the way. Weather permitting, your projected landfalls could include: King George Island, Deception Island, (an extinct volcano) and Half Moon Island, with its resident chinstrap penguins and nesting Wilson's storm petrels.
Please note: The itinerary and activities over the next few days are dependent on weather and ice conditions. The route and shore landings will be determined by the captain and expedition leader and communicated to customers through regularly scheduled briefings.
Overnight: Albatros Expedition's 'Ocean Albatros' or 'Ocean Victory' ship
Meals included: Breakfast; Lunch; Dinner
Overnight: Albatros Expedition's 'Ocean Albatros' or 'Ocean Victory' ship
Meals included: Breakfast; Lunch; Dinner
As the white shimmer of Antarctica looms on the horizon, the presence of wildlife multiplies by tens of thousands with many species of lively penguins, inquisitive seals, nesting birds and the spray of marine mammals. Wildlife abounds along our projected route along the Antarctic Peninsula: leopard, fur and Weddell seals of Cuverville Island; humpback whales of Gerlache Strait; Paradise Bay; the dramatic Lemaire Channel's orcas and much more.
Please note:
• The itinerary and activities over the next few days are dependent on weather and ice conditions. The route and shore landings will be determined by the captain and expedition leader and communicated to customers through regularly scheduled briefings.
• All outings and landings rely on weather, sea and ice conditions being favourable both for the ship to access the areas and for the zodiacs and kayaks to manoeuvre under adequate conditions, ensuring the safety of all passengers and staff. For this reason, during moments of harsh weather and throughout the entire trip, the Albatros ships have excellent public areas such as the relaxing wellness spa and sauna, world-class restaurants & bars and an extensive library for passengers to while away their spare time. The ship is staffed by experts in the field who will also share great lectures along the way, ranging from exploration history to biology, geology, ice and wildlife.
Overnight: Albatros Expedition's 'Ocean Albatros' or 'Ocean Victory' ship
Meals included: Breakfast; Lunch; Dinner
Overnight: Albatros Expedition's 'Ocean Albatros' or 'Ocean Victory' ship
Meals included: Breakfast; Lunch; Dinner
Today marks the conclusion of your Antarctic adventure with the commencement of the second crossing of the Drake Passage and a return to the Beagle Channel and Ushuaia. En route, you will cruise past Cape Horn, a legendary maritime landmark and the southern tip of South America.
Overnight: Albatros Expedition's 'Ocean Albatros' or 'Ocean Victory' ship
Meals included: Breakfast; Lunch; Dinner
During your time at sea, a variety of activities will be arranged onboard, which will provide the perfect opportunity to socialise with fellow travellers equally passionate about discovering the world. Enjoy informative lectures by the expedition team on board, drop in to the piano bar, the Observation Lounge or make the most of the ships gyms, spa centre or extensive library.
Overnight: Albatros Expedition's 'Ocean Albatros' or 'Ocean Victory' ship
Meals included: Breakfast; Lunch; Dinner
This morning you will arrive back in Ushuaia.
Upon disembarkation, make your own way to the hotel, and enjoy one final night at the end of the world. Enjoy the rest of the day at your leisure to explore Ushuaia.
Overnight: Los Acebos, Ushuaia Hotel or similar
Meals included: Breakfast
Today, at the appropriate time, you will be transferred to the airport for the return flight back to Buenos Aires.
Overnight: Libertador Hotel Buenos Aires or similar
Meals included: Breakfast
Today at the appropriate time you will be transferred to the Buenos Aires Airport for your return flight back to Australia.
Meals included: Breakfast
Meals included: In-Flight
Upon arrival, please make your own onward travel arrangements.
Important Info
Any special requests, preferences and optional extras MUST be clearly stated in your Passenger Information Form. Any change requested after submitting your Passenger Information Form cannot be guaranteed, is strictly subject to availability and will incur surcharges as outlined in the Schedule of Fees below.
On purchasing this Travel Offer, you are bound by the General Terms and Conditions and the specific terms and conditions outlined in this Important Information.
Please note: All countries and territories have different entry requirements in relation to vaccinations, quarantine/isolation periods and travel restrictions. Due to the evolving nature, we would ask all of our customers to monitor, meet and adhere to the specific requirements of their intended destination(s) in the lead-up to and immediately before travel, as well as any requirements post-travel upon their return.
Please note: Date change credits are subject to availability and not guaranteed until confirmed by TripADeal, not the tour operator you are due to stay with.
We recommend you consider purchasing travel insurance with Covid-19 protection. The standard cancellation policy will apply if you cannot travel because you have tested positive for Covid-19.
Please note: All additional charges are payable in AUD (unless otherwise stated).
Travel offer is valid for travel on selected dates until the 5th of February 2024.
This travel offer is priced for one person based on twin share.
Single Traveller Supplement
For solo travellers, there are single cabins available at checkout.
Please note: Single cabin availability is very limited and will incur a surcharge.
Departure Dates:
2023
November 15
2024
February *5
Please note:
Dates with a * will incur a high season surcharge of $1000
Please note: See checkout for live dates and availability.
Departure Cities
Sydney, *Melbourne, Brisbane, *Adelaide or Auckland (New Zealand)
Departure City Surcharges
Melbourne: $2000 per person
Adelaide: $100 per person
Brisbane: $100 per person
Auckland: $650 per person
Seat Selection & Frequent Flyer Points:
At Qantas Tours we do not arrange seat selection. It is important to highlight that some Airlines do not allow pre-selected seats. We strongly suggest you contact the Airline directly with seating allocation requirements and or arrive at the airport earlier to arrange your seating. While we do not add frequent flyer member details to bookings, you can do this directly with the Airline once you have your flight information.
Passport Validity:
Customers are required to provide valid passport details either at the time of purchase or no later than 45 days prior to the departure date. Failure to do so may result in the cancellation of the booking. In this instance, customers will be responsible for any costs and fees incurred.
COACH TOUR
Meals:
Daily breakfast is included in the tour, for all other meals; lunches and dinners the tour leader (when available) will offer assistance with reservations, suggestions and directions to local restaurants. It is your responsibility to notify Qantas Tours of any dietary requests/requirements.
Please note: We will do our best to meet your requests/requirements, however, cannot guarantee that we will always be able to.
Luggage:
You will be responsible for all your personal belongings whilst on the tour. With regards to luggage, you must carry your own luggage from the coach to the hotel room and back to the coach. The driver will assist with the uploading and off-loading of the luggage from the coach.
OTHER
Fitness Level Required / Mobility:
Our vehicles are not equipped with wheelchair access, so, unfortunately, our tours are currently not suitable for wheelchair users and those less mobile.
Please note: A general level of fitness will be required. If you have any concerns please consult your healthcare provider prior to purchase/travel.
Gratuities / Tipping:
Land
Gratuities (tips) are not included in the tour price for the services of the tour leader (when available) and driver throughout the tour. The recommended tip is $6 - $11 USD per person per day this covers the guide/leader and the driver, which will be collected whilst on tour.
Tipping for all services provided on tour is always a matter of personal discretion, however, please be aware that tipping is considered by many locals to be a part of their normal remuneration and they may approach you for payment and there is no need to be intimidated by the request.
Cruise
Gratuities (tips) are not included in the tour price for the services of the cruise staff throughout the cruise component of this tour. Albatros Expeditions is an internationally registered company & operates to US & European standards, both of which have an economy driven by a gratuities culture. Gratuities are expected on your cruise and will be charged to your onboard account at $14 USD per person per day. If you have any questions in regards to the gratuities on your cruise please speak to the guest services staff onboard the ship.
Sightseeing:
Please note: In the event entrance to a site is affected by changes in operating hours or public holiday closures, your itinerary where possible, will be adjusted or similar activity will be offered in its place (subject to availability).
Shopping:
Shopping overseas can be a daunting and confusing experience, especially when there is a language barrier. Please be very cautious when foreign currencies and prices are involved. If paying by credit card, please pay close attention to the amount you are being charged and keep all of your receipts.
Do not make any purchases you are not comfortable with or feel pressured into. If you are uncertain or need assistance with the language barrier, please seek assistance from your Tour Guide/Leader.
Please refer to our Terms and Conditions in regards to shopping for further information.
OCEAN ALBATROS & OCEAN VICTORY:
Albatros Expeditions acquired its new luxury infinity vessel, Ocean Victory, which joined the fleet in November 2021. Ocean Albatros will launch in May of 2023. These 2 ships are recognised as two of the most modern small ship vessels in the market.
This stylish cruise ship, ideally suited for our business model of small ship expeditions, will be deployed and dedicated to varied Antarctic region voyages.
With a total of 93 comfortable staterooms for our guests, all with a view of the ocean, (and 90% with their own balcony), several restaurants, a wellness area, an Albatros Nordic Bar, an open deck dining facility, a modern lecture lounge, and other amenities, the vessel will also be environmentally-friendly onboard, with an implementation of the Green Initiative Program, ensuring both absolute comfort and sustainability for our guests.
Technical information:
- X-Bow for more stability and comfort
- Polar code Class 6
- Highest Ice Class 1A
- 4 Diesel engines and 2 electro engines
- Solas classification
- Environmentally friendly in all aspects
- Green initiative program & CSR
- Unique hydraulic observation platforms
Cabins
All cabins are subject to availability; some cabins may have restricted views.
Balcony Suite (35 m2)
Ocean Victory has 2 Balcony Suites on board located on the Bering & James Cook deck respectively, located on deck 4. The suites feature double or twin beds and a seating area, bathroom with bath and private balcony. The balcony suites can host 2 people.
Other inclusions:
- VIP service
- Unlimited access to the specialty restaurant on deck 8, Lava stone cooking.
- Julius Meini coffee machine
- Upgraded hair and lotion products
- Stocked minibar
- Wine and fruit in-room at commencement of cruise
- Free laundry
Balcony Stateroom (24 m2)
The most abundant type of stateroom on Ocean Victory, the Balcony State Staterooms are located on decks 4 & 6. They have a private balcony, a double bed or two single beds, a bathroom with a bathtub and a sofa that can be used as a bed for a child if travelling as a family. If you desire to book two staterooms with connecting doors, this is also a possibility under this category.
French Balcony Suite (Porthole) (16 m2)
The French Balcony Suite is a standard stateroom with a french balcony, a double bed or two single beds, floor-to-ceiling windows and a bathroom. All French Balcony Suites are located on Deck 7.
Albatros Stateroom (Porthole) (22 m2)
The standard stateroom on Ocean Victory is close to the Mudroom and has quick access to the zodiac platforms for disembarkation during landings. This is very convenient if you have more limited mobility and would like a short distance to the zodiacs. The staterooms are perfect for those who wish for a comfortable base during their stay onboard Ocean Victory. The standard staterooms all have a double bed or 2 single beds and a bathroom with bathtub. The staterooms are located on deck 3 except for 1 which is located on deck 4.
Single Stateroom (Porthole) (18 m2)
Standard single stateroom onboard, located on deck 3. This is a conveniently located stateroom close to the Mudroom which facilitates access to the zodiacs during embarkation and disembarkation to begin your adventures on the zodiacs.
Albatros Expeditions 'Ocean Victory' Facilities
Beagle Restaurant:
Dinner always starts with delicious hot soups, cold cuts and crisp, fresh salads. Several choices of entrees are offered each evening, to accommodate different tastes and dietary requirements; always including a meat choice, fish choice and vegetarian choice. After dinner, freshly prepared desserts, including ship-made ice cream or cakes are a great way to end a meal and satisfy any sweet tooth.
A selection of wines and beers is available to perfectly complement your visit to the restaurant… and if you’re interested in relaxing during your time off from activities and landings, delight onboard Ocean Victory by raising your glass to the experience of a lifetime! The bar is fully equipped with a variety of cocktails, beers, non-alcoholic beverages and more, to quench your thirst and reward the explorer in you.
Panorama Specialty Restaurant:
The specialty restaurant on Deck 8 offers unforgettable views while enjoying a unique way of food preparation: Lava Stone Cooking. Guests are able to dine at the Panorama Specialty Restaurant once during the voyage.
The method of cooking on stones can be traced back to the Ancient Egyptians and our Nordic ancestors, the Vikings!
Lava stone cooking offers a unique interactive dining experience, where meat and fish dishes are served cooking at your own table on super-heated natural volcanic stones. The high temperature sears the food faster and locks in the natural juices and nutrients, enhancing the full flavour and tenderness of all foods.
The cooking method uses no added fats or oils and sears the food without burning. It ensures a clean, and completely natural food flavour, not achievable with any conventional cooking methods. The result is a freshly grilled, healthy and nutritious meal with a sensational taste.
Please note: The Panorama Specialty Restaurant is reserved for suite cabin passengers, however all passengers will be able to enjoy the Specialty Restaurant once during the voyage (cost not included)
Shackleton Lecture Lounge
What makes a good expedition? It is a combination of its landings and the experiences onboard the ship. Albatros Expeditions are honoured to have an amalgam of experts in the expedition team, from climatologists and geologists to renowned photographers, all eager to share their adventures and knowledge with guests.
Knud Rasmussen Library
Honouring the great explorers, the lecture room allows for an adventure within an adventure. Here you can find sagas, narratives and practical information on the polar regions, in various languages and subjects. From encyclopaedias of the polar wildlife and fauna to narrations of the many challenges faced by the first expeditions, this is the perfect location for entertaining your brain while we sail.
Albatros Observation Lounge
Celebrate your dream polar adventure, engage in conversation and relax while admiring the icy landscape of the polar regions. At the Nordic Bar Lounge Albatros aim to create a fun and enjoyable atmosphere with varied cocktails and drinks, appetisers and smaller events. Or try one of the unique wine-tasting menus from Gerard Bertrand.
Albatros Nordic Bar Lounge
The Albatros Nordic Bar Lounge provides a bit of warm Nordic hospitality to the Antarctic. Offering a large choice of drinks, including wine tasting menus from Gerard Bertrand, this is the perfect place to relax after an unforgettable day and make new international friends.
- Other Features include:Albatros BBQ Deck
- Outdoor bar
- 2 lounges
- The Polar Spa
- Gym
- Pool Deck with a Heated infinity pool and 2 hot tubs
- Albatros Ocean Boutique
- Mudroom
- Hydraulic viewing platforms
- Front-facing windows in the Bow
Dining Experience - 'Ocean Albatros & Ocean Victory'
Experience a one-time Lava Stone Cooking Experience (on Ocean Victory) or a World Class Sushi Experience (Ocean Albatros) at the Panorama specialty restaurant once during the voyage (entrance only, no meals included).
Shore Excursions & Landings
The expedition team will organise a series of Zodiac excursions and shore landing activities to bring you closer in touch with your natural surroundings. Weather permitting, there can be up to 4 excursions per day; two zodiac cruises, and two land excursions.
Zodiac brand has earned a well-deserved reputation as the sturdiest and safest small watercraft available. These boats have a low draft and great stability. Zodiacs are constructed for professional use and are outfitted with a top-quality outboard engine, yet their design minimally impacts the environment.
The Zodiacs are designed to provide unrestricted access to the world’s last great frontier. Their versatility enables us to make landfall on remote shores, cruise along awe-inspiring coastlines and share breathtakingly close encounters with whales, seals, penguins, seabirds and more. We will come within arm’s reach of icebergs and set foot on land discovered by pioneering explorers just over a century ago.
Your safety and comfort are the #1 priority, and your expedition leader will carefully plan for as many Zodiac excursions as possible, depending upon the local weather and prevailing conditions. In each case, the expedition leader makes the final decision if the landing is possible or not. Particular safety regulations apply on landings. All guests receive mandatory instruction on the safety guidelines. Life jackets are mandatory to wear.
Please note: The cruising company highly recommend the use of waterproof bags in order to protect your personal camera or binoculars, as both hands have to be free of everything during boarding. Participation is fairly easy and comfortable for able-bodied guests but can be more challenging for those with physical handicaps.
Please note: All outings and landings rely on weather, sea and ice conditions being favourable both for the ship to access the areas, and for the zodiacs and kayaks to manoeuvre under adequate conditions, ensuring the safety of all passengers and staff.
GENERAL TOUR INFORMATION
Minimum group size 18, maximum group size 44 per vehicle.
Optional Tours / Activities
Day 3: El Ombu Ranch Full Day Tour - $310 per
person
Day 3: Tigre & Delta with Boat Ride - $80 per person
Day 3: La Ventana Dinner & Tango Show - $125 per person
Day 4: Tierra del Fuego National Park - $80 per person
Please note:
- prices are based on per person, are subject to availability, time permitting and weather conditions.
- The optional tours listed above must be purchased on checkout or over the phone prior to submitting your passenger information form (subject to availability)
- Some tours require minimum numbers to operate.
- The above tours are not Qantas Tours exclusive and may be shared with members of the public
Optional Tours - Payable onboard
Snowshoeing: $150 USD
Kayaking: $250 USD per outing
Polar Plunge: Free of charge
Please note: prices are based on per person, are subject to availability, time permitting and weather conditions
Gratuities/Tipping:
* Recommended land: $6 USD - $11 USD per person per day
* Expected cruise tips: $14 USD per person per day
- Optional activities/tours (including any 'onshore' excursions as part of cruise)
- Personal expenses
- Travel insurance (Mandatory)
Please note: A comprehensive travel Insurance policy must be organised BEFORE all details can be finalised.
A tourist visa for Argentina is no longer required if travelling on an Australian Passport. Passengers must hold a passport valid at least six months on entry with one blank visa page. More information can be found at https://visasdirect.com.au/requirements
USA
Some flights for this tour may be required to transit in the USA. If travelling on an Australian passport, an ESTA (visa waiver) for the USA is a strict requirement when travelling to or flying through the USA. Once a USA ESTA visa waiver is issued it is valid for 2 years or until your passport expires (whichever is sooner) and will allow multiple entries into the USA. For information on ESTA eligibility or to apply, please visit: https://esta.cbp.dhs.gov/esta/
Important:
Visa rules may have changed since Covid-19. Check with the nearest embassy, consulate or immigration department of the destination you're entering.
Please note: Passengers who are not Australian citizens must check with the respective consulate or visa agency to determine what their visa requirements are and what personal identification is required. It is also important to note that some areas of employment such as journalism, government authorities and charity organisations may have additional restrictions in applying for Visas. This may in turn affect the type of application required.
Voluntary Changes This includes booking changes requested by you, including but not limited to those changes requiring an airline ticket or a Purchase Confirmation reissue.
• Changes - $100.00 per booking and any additional charges applied by the airline/cruise company/accommodation/other travel providers.
Name Changes Due To Passenger Error
• If the incorrect name has been provided, charges of $100.00 per booking and any additional charges applied by the airline/cruise company/accommodation/other travel providers.
Supplier Fees
In the event the Qantas Tour you have purchased is unable to proceed, and/or a travel Supplier is unable to fulfil the Qantas Tour due to external circumstances (Limitation of Liability e.g. a Force Majeure event), there may be a fee or amount of money that is withheld by our Suppliers and is unrecoverable. This may be due to non-refundable airline tickets, cancellation penalties with cruise cabins or unrecoverable payments with our land/accommodation partners. If refunds are not available from Suppliers, we will endeavour to obtain a travel credit on the best terms available and communicate these outcomes to you. In the event we are unable to obtain a refund or travel service credit, or part thereof, this cost is passed on to the customer as a Supplier Fee.
9 Points per dollar spent.
- Bookings made between 26th of September 2023 and 07th of October 2023(or until sold out) on Deal 4199 - Antarctic Expedition will receive 9 points per dollar spent.
- Standard Terms & Conditions apply
You must be a Qantas Frequent Flyer member to earn points. A joining fee may apply. Membership and points are subject to the Qantas Frequent Flyer program terms and conditions.
To earn Qantas Points with Qantas Tours, Members will be required to provide a valid Frequent Flyer number and last name at checkout. Only the lead traveller, the primary contact for the booking, will earn 3 Qantas Points per AU$1 spent (including GST) on eligible holiday packages. Qantas Points will not be earned and cannot be redeemed on any amounts payable directly to the hotel. Conditions apply. Qantas Points will be credited to a member's account up to 8 weeks after tour completion. Qantas Points will not be earned on cancelled bookings.
In addition to the 3 Qantas Points per AU$1 spent, each Frequent Flyer member who enters their Qantas Frequent Flyer number into the booking will also earn Status Credits and Qantas Points on the flight component of the package. The amount you earn depends on your flights, the operating airline, fare class and member status. Find out how many Qantas Points you could earn on your next Qantas Tours flights with our online Points Calculator. Terms and conditions apply.
Points Plus Pay allows you to choose the number of Qantas Points you redeem above the minimum level of 4,000 and pay for the remainder of the booking value with an accepted payment method. TripADeal booking terms and conditions apply.