The affordable Antarctica & Arctic cruise line you didn’t know about

Albatros Expeditions is just one of a host of expedition cruise lines ready to whisk intrepid travelers off to the far reaches of the globe – but is it right for you? Our guide will help you decide.

What is Albatros Expeditions?

Albatros Expeditions specializes in the polar regions and covers destinations from Greenland to Europe, offering holidaymakers affordable adventures.

Inspired by the brand’s Nordic heritage, Albatros Expeditions’ advanced ships combine snazzy, clever-sounding features such as an X-bow and hydraulic observation platforms with creature comforts such as balconies, jacuzzis and panoramic saunas. The latter are key for keeping warm in those chilly Poles – while the former enables stability in rough weather.

The line boasts two ships – Ocean Victory and Ocean Albatros – and there are never more than 186 passengers onboard so you’re guaranteed a small ship, intimate experience. You’ll also get a 1:8 guide-to-guest ratio.

The ships’ diminutive stature means they can navigate narrow inlets and sail close to shore, manoeuvering amidst icebergs and remote ocean areas – so you’re guaranteed plenty of pinch-me moments. It also means guests can swiftly disembark using Zodiac watercraft and zoom ashore for bucket-list escapades.

Each Albatros Expeditions program features action-packed days with these Zodiac excursions plus landings at diverse locations. Other activities include kayaking, hiking and snowshoeing, along with onboard experiences such as lectures, workshops, and wildlife spotting sessions while at sea.

You’ll be in safe hands – the expedition team comprises seasoned leaders, biologists and professionals with deep expertise in Polar Regions. Prepare to become very swotty about these far-flung lands – best get a pub quiz in the diary.

In short, Albatros cruises serve up ample landing opportunities, optional activities and educational programs all with a hearty helping of that Scandi-Cool ethos.

– READ MORE: Why Arctic penguins are truly hilarious –

Albatros Expeditions sails to Antarctica, the Arctic and Europe.

Antarctica

Expedition cruises to Antarctica focus on exploring the Antarctic Peninsula, the continent’s northernmost region extending towards South America, along with journeys that encompass the Falkland Islands and the wildlife haven of South Georgia.

Albatros Expeditions Antarctica cruises range from 10 days to 19 days. The classic 10-day journey to the Great White Continent takes in remarkable wildlife, mountain vistas and colossal icebergs. Meanwhile, the 19-day Albatros Antarctica expedition follows in the footsteps of explorer Sir Ernest Shackleton’s trail to Antarctica and the South Shetlands.

Arctic

On Albatros Expeditions Arctic cruises, adventurers will explore the breathtaking Arctic Islands of the North Atlantic, encountering such majestic wildlife as whales, walruses, polar bears and millions of seabirds in Svalbard.

Other Arctic sailings drink in Greenland’s beauty and the Inuit people’s rich culture. Alternatively, visit multiple Arctic destinations with the Four Arctic Islands voyage, including Svalbard, Jan Mayen, Greenland and Iceland, showcasing the splendour of Arctic nature.

Albatros Arctic cruises range from 6 days to 19 days.

Europe

Albatros Expeditions Baltic cruises explore Northern Europe, from Scotland’s islands to Skagen in Denmark. Other European destinations include Norway, Iceland, Svalbard and the Faroe Islands.

Albatros Expeditions Europe cruises range from 6 days to 12 days.

– READ MORE: Incredible polar activities to try in Antarctica –

Albatros Expeditions Ocean Victory became part of the fleet in November 2021. Its sister ship, Ocean Albatros, joined in June 2023.

Albatros Expeditions cabins

Ocean Albatros and Ocean Victory have 94 and 93 comfortable staterooms and suites respectively – all with an unobstructed sea view; most come with their own balcony.

The largest room on Ocean Albatros is the Family Suite, featuring two interconnecting French Balcony Suites, accommodating up to five people on two double beds and a sofa bed.

The biggest cabin on Ocean Victory is the Premium Suite, complete with a double bed (or twin beds), a sofa bed, a table and chair, a balcony and large bathroom.

On both ships, at the other end of the spectrum, is the Standard single Stateroom with a single bed – ideal for solo travelers – and the Triple Stateroom, squeezing in three people.

Above that is the standard Albatros Stateroom, with rooms increasing in size and window space (from porthole, to French balcony to balcony) the higher you go.

Each stateroom type is equipped with a safety box, television, refrigerator, multiple 230 W power and USB outlets, as well as amenities such as bathrobes, slippers, toiletries (body wash, lotion and shampoo), and a hairdryer.

You’ll also be treated to eye-catching wildlife photography above every bed, highlighting the best of the Poles’ fauna – look out for these snaps throughout the ship too. Will you manage to capture something as impressive?

– READ MORE: What’s it like to work on an expedition ship? –

Albatros Expeditions dining

Ocean Albatros has two main restaurants: Jens Munk Restaurant (hot soups, salads, multiple entrée choices and homemade desserts) and specialty eatery Fridtjof Nansen Restaurant (sizzling hot stones and delectable cuts of meat) blessed with excellent vistas.

Similarly, on Ocean Victory, there’s the main dining room Beagle Restaurant and Panorama Specialty Restaurant. On both ships, BBQs are held on the top deck thanks to the open deck dining facility when the weather permits. Burgers with bears anyone? Sausages with seals?

– READ MORE: Where in the world to cruise when –

On quiet days there are still ways to keep busy onboard these expedition vessels. Albatros Expeditions ships feature a wellness area (comprising a gym, sauna and treatment room), an Albatros Nordic Bar and a contemporary lecture lounge. There are also various other state-of-the-art amenities, such as a library, observation lounge, mudroom and shop. Yes, bonding with your travel group is encouraged. No, you can’t take home a real penguin.

– READ MORE: 8 small cruise lines for when you hate big ships –

How much does Albatros Expeditions cost?

The Albatros Expeditions price range depends on where and when you travel as well as which cruise operator you choose to book with. It’s also worth reading Albatros Expeditions reviews to make sure you pick the best holiday for you.

Albatros Antarctica cruises start from £6,475pp*.

Albatros Arctic cruises start from £5,225pp*.

Albatros Greenland cruises start from £5,099pp*.

*Prices via travel agent Polar Routes correct at the time of writing.