days
MORE INFORMATION
Departing Ushuaia, we cross the Drake Passage en-route to the South Shetland Islands.
Continuing from the South Shetland Islands, we will delve deeper into the Antarctic Peninsula, entering the famous Gerlache Strait. . 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.
Arrive in Ushuaia, Argentina – the world’s southernmost city. Explore this vibrant Patagonian city, 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. In the afternoon, we board our vessel, waiting to welcome us in port.
After our mandatory safety drill, our expedition begins as we navigate through the calm waters of the famous Beagle Channel (named for Charles Darwin’s ship). This steep-sided strait divides southern Tierra del Fuego between Chile and Argentina, and has been the jumping-off point for thousands of expeditions into the unknown. Watch out for whales and dolphins as we sail off the edge of the map into the tempestuous Drake Passage.
Sailing onward, we cross the famed 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 Roaring Fifties. While this passage may be challenging, you can rest comfortably aboard our expedition vessels, which are purpose-built with stabilizers, powerful engines and manned by a highly-qualified crew. The most spirited sailors consider Drake Passage a lifetime achievement – and you will complete the crossing twice!
Our days in the Drake Passage will be put to good use preparing for our arrival in Antarctica – your Expedition Leader will brief you comprehensively on how to stay safe and minimise your impact on this precious wilderness, as well as briefing you thoroughly on our plans for our time spent exploring, including hints and tips for wildlife watching. Our dedicated Expedition Team will assist you to 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!
We will cross into the Antarctic Convergence on the third day of our voyage – watch the mercury plummet as we 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. Weather permitting, we may be able to make landfall in the South Shetland Islands (a small but spectacular archipelago to the north of the Antarctic Peninsula) on the afternoon of our second day in the Drake Passage, marking the start of our exploration on the Last Continent.
With no set itinerary in Antarctica, this voyage offers adventurous travellers the chance to experience Antarctica as it was meant to be – flowing with the wind, sea and ice, and taking the best opportunities Mother Nature provides. This voyage departs in the first half of the brief Antarctic summer, when sea ice is at its maximum – this offers us ample opportunities to explore in the icy wilderness of the last continent. Our exact route will be subject to careful planning by the Expedition Leader and Captain – however we will aim to visit a range of sites which showcase the best of this staggeringly beautiful region.
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 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. Watch city-sized tabular icebergs drift silently past the ship in the Antarctic Sound. Wherever we go on the Antarctic Peninsula, endemic wildlife, tantalising history and breathtaking natural beauty abound.
This time of year, expect to see penguins carefully tending their fluffy chicks, while their partners frantically hunt for food at sea. As the snow melts, opportunities for hiking onshore increase. Antarctic fur seals start to arrive in their summer feeding grounds, and humpback whale numbers increase as more of these gentle giants arrive at the end of their long migration. With luck, we may even see the young of these gentle giants.
There is no set itinerary on this trip, which allows our staff onboard to maximize the experience for all onboard. Whilst our suggestions above are just possible routes and landings, we can be sure that this will be the ultimate Antarctic experience.
We eventually depart Antarctica, and spend two days at sea on our way northwards back across the infamous Drake Passage towards the more welcoming shores of the Beagle Channel and Ushuaia, Argentina. During our time at sea, a variety of activities will be arranged on board to provide our 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 our Expedition Team during lectures in the Shackleton Lounge, or simply enjoy the flight of the albatross which accompany us 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 our onboard photographer – the ideal opportunity to re-live your Antarctic adventure. Skål!
On the morning of the final day of our voyage, we will 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.
A deposit of 25% is required to hold your spot within 7 days of being invoiced and final payment is due 90 days before departure.
Payment can be made via bank transfer or debit and credit card. Cards accepted are Visa or Mastercard.
CABIN DETAILS
Located on deck 3, these cabins are reserved to accommodate a solo traveler in search of their own cabin. The cabin offers a queen/full-sized bed and a porthole - Ensuite
1
18
Porthole
Located on deck 3, these cabins offer three lower twin beds, or a queen bed with a single bed. These are large cabins that are great for a group of traveling friends, solo travelers, and families. - Ensuite
3
20
Porthole
These twin portholes are located on Deck 3. Some cabins offer a sofa, while others offer two sitting chairs. They offer a large sitting area and a round porthole in each cabin. These cabins can be configured to offer two twin beds or one matrimonial bed. - Ensuite
2
15
Porthole
These cabins offer a double-sized bed and the possibility of a full-sized sofa bed. Located on deck 7. The room features a large floor-to-ceiling, wall-to-wall window, where the top half of the window slides down completely. - Ensuite
2
16
French Balcony (infinity window)
A spacious balcony cabin that is offered on deck 4 and deck 6. These cabins offer a large walkout private balcony.
The beds can be configured as two twins or a matrimonial bed. - Ensuite
2
22
Balcony
Located on Deck 4 or Deck 6, these twin balcony staterooms offer a private balcony and a spacious living area. Some cabins offer a sofa, while others offer two sitting chairs. The sofa bed is pulled out to accommodate a third guest. Great for friends, families, and solo travelers. Main beds can be configured as two twins or a matrimonial bed. - Ensuite
2
24
Balcony
These C Grand Balcony Staterrom offers more area than the C Balcony suite and offers a larger private balcony. They are located more midship than other cabins to offer a smoother Drake Crossing. Available as two twin beds or Queen sized matrimonial. Located on deck 4.
2
30
Balcony
Located on deck 6 more midship than other cabins to offer a smoother Drake Crossing. The B Suites offer more area and a larger private balcony. Available as two twin beds or Queen sized matrimonial. VIP service included for categories A, B & suites; unlimited access to the specialty restaurant, stocked minibar, wine and fruit in-room at commencement of cruise, free laundry service.
2
32
Balcony
The A Suites offer a two-room living configuration using a large bookshelf divider. The bedroom and living room each over their own TV and the couch can be used as a pullout sofa. Can accommodate 2, 3 or 4 guests. VIP service included for categories A, B & suites; unlimited access to the specialty restaurant, stocked minibar, wine and fruit in-room at commencement of cruise, free laundry service. Located on deck 7.
2
38
Balcony
The largest of all the staterooms on board the Ocean Victory is the Premium Suite. This 2-bedroom suite features a double bed (or twin beds), a sofa bed, table and chair, a balcony and a spacious bathroom. The bedroom and living room each over their own TV and the couch can be used as a pullout sofa. Located on deck 4. VIP service included for categories A, B & suites; unlimited access to the specialty restaurant, stocked minibar, wine and fruit in-room at commencement of cruise, free laundry service.
2
43
Balcony
Located on deck 3, these cabins are reserved to accommodate a solo traveler in search of their own cabin. The cabin offers a queen/full-sized bed and a porthole - Ensuite
1
18
Porthole
Located on deck 3, these cabins offer three lower twin beds, or a queen bed with a single bed. These are large cabins that are great for a group of traveling friends, solo travelers, and families. - Ensuite
3
20
Porthole
These twin portholes are located on Deck 3. Some cabins offer a sofa, while others offer two sitting chairs. They offer a large sitting area and a round porthole in each cabin. These cabins can be configured to offer two twin beds or one matrimonial bed. - Ensuite
2
15
Porthole
These cabins offer a double-sized bed and the possibility of a full-sized sofa bed. Located on deck 7. The room features a large floor-to-ceiling, wall-to-wall window, where the top half of the window slides down completely. - Ensuite
2
16
French Balcony (infinity window)
A spacious balcony cabin that is offered on deck 4 and deck 6. These cabins offer a large walkout private balcony.
The beds can be configured as two twins or a matrimonial bed. - Ensuite
2
22
Balcony
Located on Deck 4 or Deck 6, these twin balcony staterooms offer a private balcony and a spacious living area. Some cabins offer a sofa, while others offer two sitting chairs. The sofa bed is pulled out to accommodate a third guest. Great for friends, families, and solo travelers. Main beds can be configured as two twins or a matrimonial bed. - Ensuite
2
24
Balcony
These C Grand Balcony Staterrom offers more area than the C Balcony suite and offers a larger private balcony. They are located more midship than other cabins to offer a smoother Drake Crossing. Available as two twin beds or Queen sized matrimonial. Located on deck 4.
2
30
Balcony
Located on deck 6 more midship than other cabins to offer a smoother Drake Crossing. The B Suites offer more area and a larger private balcony. Available as two twin beds or Queen sized matrimonial. VIP service included for categories A, B & suites; unlimited access to the specialty restaurant, stocked minibar, wine and fruit in-room at commencement of cruise, free laundry service.
2
32
Balcony
The A Suites offer a two-room living configuration using a large bookshelf divider. The bedroom and living room each over their own TV and the couch can be used as a pullout sofa. Can accommodate 2, 3 or 4 guests. VIP service included for categories A, B & suites; unlimited access to the specialty restaurant, stocked minibar, wine and fruit in-room at commencement of cruise, free laundry service. Located on deck 7.
2
38
Balcony
The largest of all the staterooms on board the Ocean Victory is the Premium Suite. This 2-bedroom suite features a double bed (or twin beds), a sofa bed, table and chair, a balcony and a spacious bathroom. The bedroom and living room each over their own TV and the couch can be used as a pullout sofa. Located on deck 4. VIP service included for categories A, B & suites; unlimited access to the specialty restaurant, stocked minibar, wine and fruit in-room at commencement of cruise, free laundry service.
2
43
Balcony
MORE INFORMATION
Glide through the waters and take in the royal grace of the icebergs, see the varied birds and seals, and maybe even the whales in their natural habitat under the supervision of experienced kayak guides, who will ensure your safety during each outing. In order to sign up for this activity you need to have previous kayaking experience and attend a mandatory safety briefing by the Kayak Master.
U$ 345 per person, per outing
Snowshoeing is an activity that allows you to hike across soft, powdery snow up gentle slopes to reach to unique vantage points without the hassle of sinking into deep snow. Snowshoeing is as basic as hiking and you do not need to have previous experience.
U$ 225 per person, per outing
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 with Albatros Expeditions 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. Albatros Expeditions provides 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.
$395 per person, per outing
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. 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).
$495 per person
Landings are a great opportunity to stretch your legs and set foot on Antarctica to visit the dense penguin colonies, vast snowfields, and dramatic landscapes of the last continent. Our experienced Expedition and Deck Teams will assist guests to board and disembark the Zodiacs, the only means by which we can access these remote and rugged shores. Our friendly team will always be on shore to help you spot and identify the different species of penguins and other wildlife, guide hikes and other excursions, interpret what you are seeing, as well as keep our guests safe on shore from any potential hazards. Different landing sites exhibit a variety of Antarctic experiences – these could include penguin or other wildlife colonies, historical sites, active research stations, or simply locations of exceptional natural beauty. Our knowledgeable Expedition Leader will always try to ensure landing sites are selected with variety of experiences in mind to exhibit the best of the White Continent.
Some sites do not offer landing opportunities, but are locations where exploring on the water offers the best opportunities for sightseeing and photography. These Zodiac cruise sites are often known for their collection of larger icebergs, wildlife densities and even historical landmarks such as shipwrecks, where our fleet of Zodiacs offer the best vantage point. Zodiac cruises are great for observing icebergs, glaciers, whales and other marine wildlife. Your skilled driver will navigate around the area looking for wildlife and beautiful land- and seascapes. By the end of the voyage, Zodiac cruises tend to become a firm favourite among our guests because of the vast diversity of scenery and marine life it is possible to experience.
After crossing the Drake Passage, you’ll be exploring Antarctica. The goal for the days around the South Shetland islands and Antarctic peninsula is to offer activities which will allow everyone to explore off the ship as much as possible (weather permitting). Weather dependent, we will try to offer two activities per day, usually either a landing or a Zodiac cruise.
Typically, there will be a morning activity after breakfast and an afternoon activity after lunch. We always try our hardest to meet this expectation, but because weather in Antarctica can be extremely unpredictable, we ask everyone to be mindful of our remote location and thank everyone in advance for their flexibility. Activities we offer include landings, Zodiac cruises and ship cruises. Regulations in Antarctica limit the number of people ashore at any time, so we will usually aim to offer a Zodiac cruise while our first group of guests are ashore, and reverse this for the second group ashore to maximise exploration time. No matter the day’s planned activities, the onboard Expedition Team and Expedition Leader will work as hard as possible in conjunction with the Captain and Crew to maximize exploration opportunities.
A “typical” expedition day may look like this (subject to weather and sea conditions and sailing schedule):
Reserved for only the bravest of explorers who wish to jump into the ice-cold waters of Antarctica!
Free for all guests!
MORE INFORMATION
Ocean Victory joined our fleet in November 2021 and was established as one of the most modern small ship vessels in the market.
This stylish cruise ship is ideally suited for our business model of small ship expeditions and is 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 is also environmentally-friendly onboard, with an implementation of the Green Initiative Program, ensuring both absolute comfort and sustainability for our guests.
BRIDGE
Due to its important role as a control center for all nautical and technical processes, the ship’s bridge is a vital, sensitive place. Therefore, the bridge may not be accessible to the public at all times. Conditions permitting, we will be happy to welcome you into the bridge for a visit. Guests must be accompanied by the expedition leader.
JACUZZIS
The ship features two jacuzzis on the upper outside deck (deck 7), allowing spectacular views of the polar landscape outside in a relaxing environment.
Please note, that there is no lifeguard on duty, and the jacuzzis will not be accessible if weather and wind conditions render them unsafe to use. It is to be expected that the use of these facilities will be on certain calm days and within certain hours, so if you plan on using them, please confer with the expedition staff onboard. The jacuzzis (hot tubs) can normally be used much more frequently and whilst the ship is moving.
STATEROOM SERVICE
Your stateroom is serviced daily. We provide a turn-down service. We provide meals to the room only for serious cases of guests being sick. Our suites will have VIP services.
STATEROOM LAYOUT/DIMENSIONS
Please note! The layout, illustration, and dimensions of the cabin categories shown are for illustration purposes only and may not be an exact representation of the staterooms. The actual cabin layouts and sizes may vary.
ZODIAC LANDINGS
One feature of our expedition cruises includes landings and excursions aboard Ocean Victory’s fleet of 18 inflatable, motorized rubber “Zodiac” boats. The 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 our #1 priority, and your expedition leader will carefully plan for as many Zodiac excursions as possible, dependent upon the local weather and prevailing conditions. In each case, the expedition leader makes the final decision if the landing is possible or not. Safety regulations apply on landings. All guests receive mandatory instructions on the safety guidelines. Life jackets are mandatory to wear.
Please note, that we highly recommend the use of waterproof bags in order to protect your personal camera or binoculars, as both hands must 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.
CRUISE CARD / PAYMENTS / CREDIT CARDS
At the time of embarkation, you will receive your personal cruise card, which you should always have with you. This card is used on board as a payment instrument and identity card. All on-board purchases from the boutique, bar, internet, telephone, laundry, and the like are charged to your shipboard account.
To activate your personal onboard account, we accept Visa, MasterCard, and American Express credit cards. At the end of the voyage, your account will be settled by the payment methods mentioned above.
There is no currency exchange office onboard the vessel. Onboard payment will be completed by your cruise card. For stays ashore during the cruise, we recommend changing a minimal amount of the local currency in small bills, as most of the ports and airports have exchange offices. Alternatively, lots of shops and restaurants accept international credit cards. In bigger ports and cities, you have the possibility to withdraw cash from ATMs.
If you choose to leave a gratuity for the crew, the amount that you authorize will be charged to the shipboard account. Be sure to contact your credit card provider regarding the use of your credit cards overseas. Any questions regarding the bill can be addressed to the Reception.
GRATUITIES
Following international standards in the service industry, it is customary to leave a gratuity for the ship’s crew at the end of the voyage. All gratuities will be divided among the crew. Typically, the recommended amount is approximately 13.50 USD per person per day. Gratuity is, of course, not required and any gratuity payments are voluntary.
If you choose to leave a gratuity for the crew, the amount that you authorize will be charged to the shipboard account.
DRESS CODE
The dress code on board is casual. Ties, jackets and evening dresses you may leave at home. It is rather more important to wear the right clothes in order to adapt to the different weather conditions. We recommend comfortable, breathable, waterproof, and windproof clothing. Also, you should have a pair of gloves, thermal underwear, and sturdy footwear in your luggage. For the captains and farewell cocktail, we recommend a smart casual dress style.
For specific packing recommendations, refer to the specific itinerary of interest.
ENVIRONMENT
As a tour operator for cruises in the Polar Regions, which are some of the world’s most pristine environments, we extremely emphasize environmental awareness as well as sustainability. One of our top priorities is to protect the environment and minimize our CO2 emissions. All waste will remain onboard the vessel until we return to shore and it’s possible to dispose of waste.
We ask that you show deep respect for the unique nature and act according to the motto: leave nothing but footprints, take nothing but memories.
INTERNET / PHONE
Keep in mind, that we will be cruising in a very remote region of the world. Where accessible, internet access is available for an extra charge. Mobile phone reception may be possible in select regions along our route. For further details please contact your mobile phone operator. Prices can be found in the information folder in your stateroom. Please ensure that your ‘Data Roaming’ function is switched off.
LANGUAGE ONBOARD
The official language aboard our vessels is English; however, our expedition leaders and crew are knowledgeable in a variety of languages. If there is a large group, who desires communication in their own language, we will make special arrangements to accommodate their needs.
PASSPORT / VISA
Each guest is responsible for ensuring that he/she meets the applicable passport and visa requirements for the duration of the trip. The passport is the only valid proof of identity for all trips with the Ocean Victory. Your passport must be valid for a minimum of 6 months after arriving 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 may be amended between the time of your booking and departure. The name in your passport must be identical to the name in all travel documentation. Costs incurred due to insufficient travel documents are the responsibility of the passenger.
Please note that passports will be collected for clearing formalities at the beginning of the voyage. The passports will be kept safely by the Purser during the whole voyage and will be handed out on the last day. We, therefore, recommend preparing copies of all documents before you start your travels.
RECEPTION
The daily office hours of the board reception are from 06:00 until 23:00.
ALBATROS OCEAN BOUTIQUE
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 arts, and postcards at reasonable prices. A small selection of soap, toothpaste, and other sundries are also sold.
AVAILABLE SEATING SPACE
Shackleton Lecture Room: 185
Nordic Lounge: 50
Beagle Restaurant: 166
Beagle Specialty Restaurant: 40
Observation Lounge: 67
Panorama Specialty Restaurant: 46
HEALTH / MEDICAL EMERGENCY
Each of our vessels has a small medical facility equipped with the necessary equipment and medicine to handle small emergencies. The infirmary is always staffed by a professionally licensed, English-speaking physician. Should a serious incident occur, the nearest hospital will be contacted. All guests must have personal travel/health insurance.
Although we do not have an official requirement regarding personal fitness, you should be able to move on board and ashore without the help of others.
Due to safety reasons, a cruise is only possible for pregnant women until the 24th week of pregnancy. The state of pregnancy must be presented by a medical certificate.
SAFETY / SECURITY ON BOARD
Our ships comply with all safety regulations and are ice-class vessels suitable for sailing in polar environments. Upon arrival on the vessel, there will be a mandatory passenger briefing and safety drill before departure. We will provide security information and practical details regarding life onboard and introduce key personnel. You will be informed where the safety equipment is located and how it is used. Each stateroom is equipped with lifejackets. Once onboard, please familiarize yourself with the ship’s emergency rescue plan.
PHYSICAL DISABILITIES / WHEELCHAIR ACCESSIBILITY
The Ocean Victory has two cabins available to guests requiring wheelchair access. Guests needing any form of assistance, and those who are physically disabled must be accompanied by someone who will take full responsibility for any needed assistance during the cruise and in the event of an emergency.
Moreover, guests requiring a wheelchair must provide their own collapsible wheelchair. Please be aware that some ports of call, shore excursions, docks, gangways, and other requirements may preclude a wheelchair-bound guest from leaving the vessel; that decision will be made by the Expedition Leader or ship’s captain and is binding.
SEASICKNESS / STABILISATORS
The ship is equipped with stabilizers in order to reduce the ship’s roll. However, these expeditions are hosted in remote regions, and it is possible to periodically encounter changing environments and climate patterns, including rough seas and large swells. Seasickness medication work solely or in part to help cure nausea for most people. These medicines can cause sleepiness. If you are prone to motion sickness, consult with your doctor prior to departure to help ensure your comfort while travelling.
SMOKING
For safety reasons and to protect the health of our guests and employees, smoking is only allowed in designated areas on the outside decks. Smoking is not permitted inside the vessel, in the stateroom or near the Zodiacs. Please remember to respect our natural environments and dispose of cigarette butts in designated bins.
SPECIAL DIETARY REQUESTS
All meals on board the vessel is chef-prepared. If you have special dietary requirements (food allergies, intolerances, health conditions or religious preferences), please inform us as early as possible – ideally, no later than 2 weeks before departure. In order to ensure efficient service, please re-confirm your requirements with the crew upon boarding the ship.
ELECTRICAL OUTLETS
The ship has a 220v / 50 Hz cycle system. Please check your appliances before use. 110-volt appliances require an adapter prior to use aboard the ship.
The electrical outlets on board Ocean Victory are the so called ‘F-type sockets’, round 2-pin, 220-240 V, grounded, used in continental Europe and Russia. They take C, E, and F-type 2-pin plugs.
WATER
There are several water stations onboard Ocean Victory. Normally, water is not rationed, but we do advise our guests to pay attention to their water consumption.
LAUNDRY
If you wish to have some laundry done while aboard the ship, laundry service is available for an additional fee.
ONBOARD BRIEFINGS
The Expedition Leader will conduct regularly scheduled briefings to highlight key points in the itinerary, organize excursions and communicate important information.
CHILDREN
Due to safety precautions, children under 12 years of age will be taken into consideration on each landing. It is entirely at the Expedition Leader’s discretion to permit children on excursions and shore landings.
ITINERARY & 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 to safety of our guests and crew, we may be forced to change the route.
RULES FOR LANDINGS & 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 that you remain together with your group, as we are truly in the wild and must remain extra vigilant of the wildlife and weather conditions around us. Walking around independently is strictly prohibited. It is essential to abide by the strictly communicated safety rules.
MORE INFORMATION
Explore the vast, breathtaking landscapes of the polar regions with the best travel options tailored to your preferences.
Yes!!! Once we arrive in Antarctica it will be the ultimate goal of the Captain, Expedition Leader, and the Expedition Team to make sure we get off the ship as much as possible. You’ll participate in landings, zodiac cruises, and any additional activities you’ve signed up for. Check the “Detailed trip itinerary” for more details on each outing.
The price shown is the “all-in” price after all taxes, fees, port fees, and permits required; which are handled by the tour operator. The only main additional costs will be mandatory travel insurance, optional gratuity, canned beverages and alcohol, and additional activities. See the full list of inclusions/exclusions for more details.
Not necessarily, no! Our trips are usually made up of around 50% solo travelers! Prices are always per person, per bed. If you’re a solo traveler, we will match you with a same-gender roommate from our group to share your cabin with. There is also the option for solo cabin availability on certain trips. Please send us a message about solo cabins if that’s your preference.
MORE INFORMATION
Explore the vast, breathtaking landscapes of the polar regions with the best travel options tailored to your preferences.
With over 15 years of combined experience, our team of Polar Expedition Guides is dedicated to providing unforgettable polar journeys.
