Albatros Expeditions have been offering adventures to the most remote regions of the world since 1985. They are a pioneering cruise operator offering exceptional experiences onboard a modern, state-of-the-art fleet. Embark for a trip of a lifetime and experience it all with true Scandinavian hospitality. Albatros is proud to introduce two of the most advanced ships in their fleet with their award-winning facilities and itineraries, Ocean Victory and Ocean Albatros.
ABOUT OUR EXPEDITIONS
What can I expect when traveling with Albatros Expeditions?
The program:
Our voyages are carefully designed to engage your heart, mind and spirit throughout the journey. For this reason, each program includes days full of activities such as Zodiac excursions and landings at various locations. We also offer activities such as kayaking, hiking, and snowshoeing as well as onboard activities while at sea, such as lectures, workshops, and wildlife spotting.
The staff:
Our expedition cruise team consists of expedition leaders and staff, biologists, and professionals who have extensive knowledge of Polar Regions and a passion for exploration. The team speak several languages and are eager to assist you throughout the journey. We aim to include and support the local areas that we visit: you will often find that our onboard staff are from destinations visited on the itinerary.
The ship:
Our small expedition ships have a distinct advantage over larger, traditional cruise ships. They can access narrow inlets and sail close to shore, in-between icebergs and in remote areas of the ocean. This allows us to disembark quickly via our fleet of Zodiac watercraft and access amazing sites with greater speed and efficiency.
The route:
Please keep in mind that the itinerary and outdoor activities during each voyage are dependent on weather conditions, to ensure the safety of our guests. The route and shore landings are determined by the captain and expedition leader who will communicate this to guests through regularly scheduled briefings. Albatros Expeditions reserves the right to modify the landings and locations visited during a voyage based on the prevailing weather conditions to ensure a safe and comfortable experience for all our guests and staff.
COVID-19 POLICY
What is Albatros Expeditions' current COVID-19 policy?
We understand that many have concerns about travelling in current COVID-19 times, and we aim to address those in this document.
We are convinced that if we all observe the right policies and measures, travelling to the remoteness of the polar regions is one of the safest travel destinations. If we all maintain a couple of basic guidelines, the risks for infections and diseases will be much lower than in most public areas or transport in the world.
Download the full briefing as a PDF file - Antarctica 22/23
TRAVEL CONDITIONS
Where can I read more about payment and general terms?
Please visit https://albatros-expeditions.com/terms-conditions to read our General Terms & Conditions.
What are the Covid-19 vaccine requirements?
Albatros Expeditions require all guests, staff, and crew to be fully vaccinated (2 shots) with a locally approved vaccine a minimum of 14 days prior to arrival at the destination. Please keep up to date regarding the locally approved vaccines at your destination. Please note that Covid-19 booster shots are not counted towards a minimum of 14 days???
Can I pay for my trip with a Gift Card?
If you would like to redeem a gift card or cruise credit, please contact us and provide the invoice number on the gift card and the invoice number for your trip. The amount on the gift card will be deducted from the price of your reservation. Cruise credits are valid for 2 years.
Is there a possibility of being allocated a shared cabin if I’m a single traveler?
There is a possibility of allocating shared rooms for single travellers of the same gender: Category C (Balcony Stateroom) and Category F (Triple Porthole Cabins).
PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS
Are there any health requirements in place?
Expeditions are intended for persons in reasonably good health. Although we do not have official requirements regarding personal fitness, you should be able to move around onboard and ashore without assistance. Passengers who are unable to make extended trips for any reason, including disability, heart, or other health conditions are advised not to join the tour, as this would entail an unreasonable risk to the health and safety of yourself and others on the expedition. All guests are required to sign a medical information declaration before boarding. This is to inform onboard medical personnel about any illnesses, allergies, or conditions to be aware of during the voyage.
Research supplemental travel health insurance (including medical evacuation) and consider bringing additional prescription medicine in case of delays.
With communicating need of assistance, please wait a month prior to your departure, when you are going to receive the Participant Declaration Form and will have a chance to indicate them.
Why do I need to fill out a Health Declaration form?
To participate in our voyages, medical evacuation insurance coverage is mandatory for all passengers. AE requires an Emergency Evacuation insurance of a minimum of USD 200,000 per passenger, a printed copy of your insurance must be provided if requested by expedition staff onboard the vessel. The medical insurance must cover any existing health issues the passenger may have, it must also cover medical treatment and medical evacuation in any area visited on the journey. AE is not responsible for any medical or health issues arising during the voyage. In case of an emergency medical situation, AE will seek to find the closest location on the voyage from where medical treatment and evacuation can be performed. The medical staff and AE’s Expedition Leader will decide together what course of action should be taken regarding any emergency medical situation. All passengers must accept this condition prior to embarkation.
What are Medical Evaluations?
Passengers are further advised that medical evacuation, if available, is expensive and we strongly recommend you acquire the correct medical insurance that would reimburse you for this cost. Please note the locations being traveled in are very remote and it can take up to 2 days to reach areas where Medevacs (Medical Evacuations) are possible. In other areas such as South Georgia, Medevacs are not possible as the area is out of the range of helicopters and there are no landing strips.
Can I travel while pregnant?
Although we do not consider pregnancy a medical condition, for safety reasons a cruise is only possible up to the 24th week of pregnancy. A medical certificate indicating the status of the pregnancy must be presented upon request during check-in. Please note the locations being traveled in are very remote and it can take up to 2 days to reach areas where Medevacs (Medical Evacuations) are possible. For this reason, medical insurance should cover remote area evacuation and repatriation costs.
Can I travel if disabled?
Albatros Expeditions welcomes disabled guests; however, guests must realize that there are inherent risks associated with traveling onboard ships that are configured for expedition cruise travel. It is vital to notify the agent (in writing) at the time of booking!
Guests needing assistance and those who are physically disabled must be accompanied by someone who assumes full responsibility for any assistance necessary 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 prevent a wheelchair-bound guest from leaving the vessel; any decisions regarding this will be made by the Expedition Leader or ship’s captain.
Albatros Expeditions presently operates two expedition vessels, the Ocean Victory and the Ocean Albatros. Our newest vessel, the Ocean Victory has two cabins available to guests requiring wheelchair access.
In 2023 Albatros Expeditions will launch the Ocean Albatros, sister-ship to the Ocean Victory. This new vessel will have the same features, enabling disabled guests to participate in polar cruising.
INSURANCES
How do travel insurance and cancellation insurance work?
It is mandatory for guests travelling with Albatros Expeditions to take out appropriate travel insurance before leaving home. Guests must ensure that their insurance covers cruise travel in polar regions and provides repatriation coverage of no less than 200,000 USD per person. You must have proof of insurance onboard with you, this proof must be produced on request from our staff.
What is Medical Evacuation Insurance?
To participate in our voyages, medical evacuation insurance coverage is mandatory for all passengers. AE requires an Emergency Evacuation insurance of a minimum of USD 200,000 per passenger, as well as a printed copy of your insurance if requested by expedition staff onboard the vessel. The medical insurance must cover any existing health issues the passenger may have. It must also cover medical treatment and medical evacuation in any area traveled.
Passengers are further advised that medical evacuation if available, is expensive and we strongly recommend that you purchase medical insurance that will reimburse you for these costs. Please note, the locations being traveled to are very remote. Please note the locations being traveled in are very remote and it can take up to 2 days to reach areas where Medevacs (Medical Evacuations) are possible. For this reason, medical insurance should cover remote area evacuation and repatriation costs.
AE is not responsible for any medical or health issues arising during the voyage. In case of an emergency medical situation, AE will seek to find the closest location on the voyage from where medical treatment and evacuation can be performed. The medical staff and AE’s Expedition Leader will decide together what course of action should be taken regarding an emergency medical situation. All passengers must accept this condition prior to embarkation.
BOOKING
How do I book and pay?
Our expedition cruises are primarily sold through travel agents. Please contact your regional travel agent for a personalized offer. However, by clicking on "Request a quote" on our home page, you can also enquire directly. When it comes to paying your deposit and the remaining amount, we are going to direct you to the following payment link.
What credit cards do you accept?
We accept major credit cards: Visa, Mastercard, Maestro & JCB.
Who can I call if I am experiencing difficulties with my booking?
All purchases are made on this website, but you can write us if you need help with booking or paying. Contact: sales@albatros-expeditions.com.
Do your trips include international flights?
No, our trips all start at the destination with the exception of Greenland and Svalbard departures. Get to know more by checking the "inclusions/exclusions" of each departure.
CANCELLATION POLICY, CHANGES & WISHES
Is it possible to change names or other personal details on my upcoming cruise?
It is often possible to make changes to your trip, please note that changes are usually subject to a fee. The fee depends on the nature of the change as well as the time remaining until departure. Please contact us as soon as possible regarding any changes, either by calling us or filling out our contact form.
Prior to final payment, name changes are accepted for a fee of USD 125.00. After final payment, there is a fee of USD 250.00 plus additional airline cost for name changes to a booking
What are the rules regarding the cancellation, deviation, or substitution by Albatros Expeditions?
Carrier may for any reason, at any time and without prior notice, cancel, advance, postpone or deviate from any scheduled sailing, port of call, destination, lodging, or any activity on or off the Vessel, or substitute another vessel or port of call, destination, lodging or activity. Carrier shall not be liable for any claim whatsoever by Passenger, including but not limited to loss, compensation, or refund, because of such cancellation, advancement, postponement, substitution, or deviation.
What are the rules regarding cancellation by a passenger?
In case of cancellation of the cruise cancellation fees are:
Cancellations received 180 days or more prior to departure, are refundable less an administration fee of a minimum of USD 1,000.00 per person.
From 179 days to 91 days prior to departure cancellation costs are 25% of the total cruise tariff.
From 90 days until departure cancellation costs are 100% of the total cruise tariff.
The terms of cancellations regard FIT travellers, in case of booking through a travel agent terms & conditions of cancellation may differ.
What are the rebooking terms?
For reading about Rebooking Terms & Conditions, please visit our Terms& Conditions page and find "REBOOKING TERMS".
What are the COVID-19 Cancellation policies?
If a guest needs to cancel because of COVID-19 (e.g., closed outbound or inbound border at the time of departure, a positive PCR test in the week leading up to departure), we provide a cruise credit of the amount paid valid for two years. These reasons can only be properly evaluated 30 days before departure.
It should be noted that Albatros Expeditions always recommends purchasing the relevant travel insurance for expedition cruising in Polar regions.
Should Albatros Expeditions ever need to cancel a voyage, then there is always the option of a full refund, to be paid within two weeks of cancellation or a cruise credit on amount paid valid for two years. Finally, it is always the guest who is responsible for meeting the entry/exit requirements of a country, submitting the correct forms, passport/visa requirements, as well as meeting any testing requirements.
Can I add special requests before my trip?
When booking your trip, you can state any requests/wishes you have about the room location, views, etc. If you would like to stay with/near friends or family, we will communicate your wishes to the hotel and will do our best to accommodate them. Please note we cannot guarantee that your requests will be granted.
For wishes regarding a specific cabin number, you can contact us after we have received your deposit. One month before departure, you will receive the Participant Declaration Form where you have the chance to communicate requests regarding dietary requirements, medical statements or assistance.
PASSPORT & VISA
What are the passport rules?
The passport is the only valid proof of identity accepted for trips with Albatros Expeditions. An ID card is not sufficient.
Your passport must be valid for a minimum of 6 months from the date you arrive home from your destination. Although some countries may require shorter validity periods, we implement this 6-month rule/requirement 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 stated in all travel documentation. Costs incurred due to insufficient/incorrect travel documents are the sole responsibility of the passenger.
Please note that passports will be collected for the purpose of clearing formalities at the beginning of the voyage. Passports will be stored securely by the crew during the whole voyage and will be returned on the last day. We therefore recommend preparing photocopies/copies of all documents before the tour commences.
What are the rules for visas?
Each passenger is responsible for ensuring that he/she meets the passport and visa requirements applicable for the duration of the trip.
By joining our cruise, passengers declare that they are qualified to enter and exit countries visited within the confirmed travel program and cruise itinerary and/or have obtained necessary visas, if necessary.
Why do you need my passport information?
All information is stored in a confidential and secure manner and is only used in connection with the specific trip and travel period. Therefore, you must register your passport information each time you book.
TRAVELLING WITH CHILDREN UNDER 18 YEARS
Can I travel with minors?
Minors under the age of 18 must travel with a parent or legal guardian over the age of 21 in the same stateroom as well as onshore excursions, for the entire duration of the voyage. If the minor is not travelling with a parent, a Child Travel Consent Form must be signed by a parent or legal guardian and received by AE prior to the release of travel documents.
As we travel in remote areas, for safety reasons AE cannot accommodate children under 8 years of age (weight of 29 kg and 1.2m tall). Although AE accepts children over 8 years of age, please note that there is no childcare or special television? programming available onboard. Child-adapted safety harnesses and seating are not provided onboard any AE excursion or shuttle service. Guests may use their own approved child safety harnesses and seating, providing that the vehicles have compatible equipment to safely secure children. This equipment is not guaranteed, and AE reserves the right to refuse any child above the age of 8 and below 14 years of age on any shore excursion or shuttle due to safety concerns.
Please note that for Antarctica voyages, AE recommends children be 12 years of age or older and must be accompanied by a responsible adult or legal guardian during all landings and while onboard.
DEPARTURE DOCUMENTS
When will I receive my ticket and other information regarding my voyage?
Around 1 month prior to your voyage you will receive an email containing the following documents:
Your cruise Ticket
Embarkation Letter (Containing embarkation/disembarkation procedures, times, places)
Pre-Departure Guide/Important Information Guide
Participant Declaration Form (Here you can state your dietary needs and insurance details to comply with health protocols)
Covid Guest Briefing
Health Declaration Form (COVID-19 Pre-Boarding Health Declaration)
Terms and Conditions
BAGGAGE RULES
How much luggage can I bring onboard?
You can bring the usual luggage allowance of 20 kg in addition to your hand luggage. Should you have more than one suitcase, our reception team will be happy to store it for you during the voyage. This will allow you to enjoy more free space in your stateroom.
What are luggage tags?
Upon check-in, you will be required to present your Passenger Ticket and passport. Luggage tags will be handed out prior to check-in by an Albatros Expeditions representative at the pier. It is important that ALL pieces of luggage have luggage tags attached to them. Please attach these to your check-in luggage prior to check-in at the pier.
PACKING LIST
What should I pack for a trip with Albatros?
An expedition cruise to Antarctica requires a relatively broad variety of clothing. Onshore, you can expect temperatures of -2°C to 4°C. When observing wildlife from the decks while at sea – temperatures will rarely be above 2 degrees. Throw in a strong, humid wind and the necessity of warm wind- and waterproof clothes, gloves, and hats becomes obvious.
A pair of strong slip-resistant hiking shoes/boots are recommended for onboard use and dry landings. The dress code is casual onboard, the most important thing to bring is practical clothes to wear onboard and for landings/excursions. However, you are welcome but not expected to dress up formally for dinner.
A cruise through the Arctic requires warm gloves and shorts – and everything in between! Inland temperatures may rise to 10-20°C, while at sea the temperature can be as low as 0°C. Wind and waterproof clothing, as well as a woolen cap and gloves are recommended. It is also recommended to bring clothes that can be combined into several layers as necessary. A pair of sturdy shoes are recommended onboard, while hiking boots are better for onshore visits and hikes.
An important consideration is effective mosquito repellent and a mosquito net for your face. Mosquitoes will not be a problem at sea but Arctic flies and mosquitoes are common onshore in the summertime.
Dressing appropriately for severe weather conditions and exercising caution during outdoor activities is recommended to all travelers.
Our guests are expected to bring proper winter clothing for outings, but waterproof boots are loaned free of charge during excursions. Our shop is equipped with light jackets, t-shirts, and hats but please remember to pack all basic items you will be require during your voyage.
Is there a checklist for items to be brought on the trip?
We have prepared a checklist of must-have items on board. You can find our Packing List here.
DIETARY NEEDS AND ALLERGIES
Can I order special food onboard?
There will be a various selection of food onboard – including vegetarian dishes, plant-based food items, gluten- and dairy-free options. For specific food allergies, contact the crew on board who will be happy to assist you.
You will be asked to indicate any dietary needs and allergies when filling out the Participant Declaration Form. The form will be provided upon receiving your final payment.
Where can I obtain information about the menu?
A menu tailored to the well-being of our guests is provided onboard. Meals are served at our bright and spacious onboard restaurant, where spectacular views provide an ideal atmosphere for dining. The carefully designed menu has been developed in the interest of maintaining a balanced diet during the voyage while emphasizing freshness, diversity, and delicious cuisine. Please contact your representative travel agent to obtain a sample menu.
What kind of food and beverages are available?
Full board is included on all cruises – Breakfast, lunch, dinner, and afternoon snacks. The program also includes free tea and coffee 24 hours a day as well as a welcome and farewell cocktail. Any other beverages will be charged to your cabin.
We do not encourage our guests to bring their own alcohol. Should this be the case, a cork fee of 20 USD per bottle is charged for consumption of alcohol in public areas.
To accommodate different tastes and dietary requirements, dinners always include a meat option, fish option and vegetarian option. Our fully equipped onboard bar offers a wide variety of cocktails, beers, non-alcoholic beverages and water.
CLIMATE, SEASONAL ACTIVITIES, AND WHAT TO PACK
What rules should I follow during landings and 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 ask that you remain together with your group, as we must be extra vigilant of the wildlife and weather conditions around us. Walking around by yourself is strictly prohibited in Svalbard and Antarctica. It is essential to abide by the stipulated safety rules.
Please inform the tour guide in case you wish to go ashore by yourself as this is possible in certain locations such as Greenland. Do not walk alone in uninhabited areas and always stay in sight of your group. Remember that the weather may change suddenly and visibility may be considerably reduced. Keep your distance from animals and birds (minimum 5 metres). Keep track of time and remember the departure time of the ship. Make sure that your watch matches the time of the ship’s clocks.
Can we see the effects of global warming firsthand?
There are few places where the consequences of global warming can be seen as clearly as the Arctic and Antarctic. In both Greenland and Svalbard, numerous glaciers have melted and retreated many kilometers back through recent years, and the ice surface lowers by many meters each year.
The overall picture is still unclear as more snow remains embedded in the central areas of the Greenlandic Icecap. The glacier Eqip Sermia north of Ilulissat is one of the places where you can clearly see the retracting glacial front. Eqip Sermia is visited on all our West Greenland voyages.
During the second half of the 20th century, the Antarctic Peninsula experienced the fastest rate of warming on Earth, closely followed by West Antarctica. Temperatures have risen less rapidly during the early 21st-century.
Are activities offered all year round?
Some activities are dependent on the season due to weather conditions such as the amount of snow.
Camping and snowshoeing will be available in the early season of Antarctica (November through January). Kayaking will be available on all cruises depending on weather conditions.
All Arctic land excursions should be prebooked, while all activities can be booked onboard during the Antarctic voyages. However, due to limited availability we advise you to prebook the 'Camping on the Antarctica Peninsula'. Please contact your local travel agent to reserve this experience.
How should I dress onboard?
The dress code onboard is casual, you can leave your ties, jackets and evening dresses at home. It is more important to wear the right clothes to handle the different weather conditions enroute. We recommend comfortable, breathable, waterproof, and windproof clothing. You should also have a pair of gloves, thermal underwear and sturdy footwear. For the welcome and farewell cocktail, we recommend a smart casual dress style.
How should I dress during landings?
An expedition cruise to Antarctica requires a relatively broad variety of clothing. Onshore, you can expect temperatures of -2°C to 4°C. When observing wildlife from the decks while at sea – temperatures will rarely be above 2 degrees. Throw in a strong, humid wind and the necessity of warm wind- and waterproof clothes, gloves, and hats becomes obvious.
How can you keep warm during the Arctic summer? Layers! They insulate trapped air, and you can adjust them as needed depending how hot or cold you feel. Proper clothing is a necessity for the voyage. Choose lightweight technical fabrics engineered to keep moisture out, keeping you dry and warm. For example, this could be a wool base, a sweater or fleece as a middle layer, with a wind and waterproof jacket as the outer layer. For your legs, it could be a wool base layer, tightly woven leisure pants as the middle layer and wind- and water-resistant pants as the outer layer.
A pair of strong slip-resistant hiking shoes/boots are ideal for onboard use and dry landings.
Before your trip, you will receive a “Pre-departure guide - Important information” document that contains a checklist of must have items on board.
PAYMENT AND GRATUITY
Can I pay with a credit card on my trip?
Upon embarkation, you will receive your personal cruise card which you should have with you at all times. This card is used for payment onboard (except in the onboard shop) and also functions as a key card and identity card. All on-board purchases from the bar, telephone and laundry are charged to your shipboard account.
To activate your personal cruise card account, we accept Visa, MasterCard, and American Express credit cards. Alternately, you can deposit cash (US$ or EUR/exchange rate US$-EUR). At the end of the voyage, your account will be settled via the payment methods mentioned above.
There is no currency exchange office on the vessel. Onboard payment will be made by your cruise card. For stays ashore during the cruise, we recommend changing a minimum amount of the local currency in small bills, as most of the ports and airports have exchange offices. Alternatively, many of the shops and restaurants accept international credit cards. In bigger ports and cities, you have the possibility of withdrawing cash directly from ATMs.
What currency should I bring with me?
Credit cards are accepted almost everywhere in the Arctic. Local currencies can be necessary for small souvenir shops and local products so bring some Norwegian, Icelandic or Danish Kroner depending on the destination of your voyage.
For the Antarctica voyages, credit cards are accepted almost everywhere in Ushuaia. However, we suggest having some Argentine peso in case you would like to visit souvenir shops and local markets.
Are gratuities included in the price of the trip?
Gratuities are voluntary, but it is customary to show appreciation to the hardworking crew and leave a gratuity for the ship’s crew at the end of the voyage. All gratuities are divided amongst the crew, and not just to the staff whom guests have direct contact with. This is why we recommend adding the gratuities to the guests’ accounts.
A letter will be sent out a few days before disembarkation stating that unless there are any questions or objections, we will automatically charge the gratuities to your onboard account. Should a guest not wish to add a gratuity - or alter the amount provided – please contact the reception and this will be amended according to your wishes.
ACCESSIBILITY AND ASSISTANCE
Are the vessels wheel-chair accessible?
Albatros Expeditions presently operates two expedition vessels, the Ocean Victory and the Ocean Albatros. Our newest vessel, the Ocean Victory has two cabins available to guests requiring wheelchair access. In 2023 Albatros Expeditions will launch the Ocean Albatros, sister-ship to the Ocean Victory. This new vessel will have the same features, enabling disabled guests to participate in polar cruising.
Please read more on our requirements under “General info - Physical Requirements - Can I travel while disabled?”
AMENITIES
Do I have a minibar in my cabin?
On Ocean Victory, a mini-Bar is available in all en-suite cabins and is replenished on a daily basis.
Do I have to take shower gel and personal items onboard?
On our vessels, you will find shampoo, body wash, and body lotion dispensers in all cabins. Robes and slippers are available upon request. There are hairdryers in all cabins on both vessels.
Do you provide parkas and boots?
For our Arctic and Antarctic voyages, we offer sturdy, high-quality boots free of charge throughout the duration of your trip. These boots will be yours to wear during landings and hikes for the entire voyage. Boots are available in sizes EU35 to EU47.
In the case of an Antarctic Expedition, after making your final payment, you will receive a link to order your complimentary Expedition Parka. You will receive this when boarding the Ocean Victory. We offer parkas in sizes XS-4XL for men and women.
Can I use mosquito repellent during my voyage?
We recommend using an appropriate insect repellent to prevent against bug bites, ideally with a concentration of 20% or more DEET, Picaridin, OLE, PMD or IR3535. When visiting Arctic regions such as Greenland and Iceland, it is recommended to apply sunscreen first and mosquito repellent afterwards.
Is mobile reception and WIFI available onboard?
It is worth bearing 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. You may purchase a 60-min internet package to use for your browsing needs.
Mobile phone reception may be possible in select regions enroute, 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.
Is there a laundry service on board?
If you need some laundry done while aboard, our laundry service is available for an additional fee. Please contact the reception for prices and availability.
Do I need to bring an adapter on my trip?
Both Ocean Albatros and Victory have a 220v / 50 Hz cycle system. Please check your appliances are suitable before using them. 110-volt appliances require an adapter prior to use aboard the ship. The electrical outlets onboard the vessels are the so-called ‘F-type sockets’, round 2-pin, 220-240 V, grounded, used in continental Europe and Russia. They can accommodate C, E, and F-type 2-pin plugs.
EXPECTATIONS
Will I get seasick?
We aim to have as many days as possible with calm waters whilst travelling in fjords and inside passages. Heavy seas may occur on some of our voyages (for example during the Drake Passage). Seasickness patches may provide partial or full relief. Seasickness pills such as Scopoderm may provide respite. We ask that you please provide these medications yourself.
The vessels are equipped with stabilizers in order to reduce the ships’ roll. As our expeditions take place in remote regions, it is possible to periodically encounter changing environments and climate patterns, including rough seas and large swells. Seasickness medication work to alleviate nausea caused by seasickness but there can be side effects such as tiredness or fatigue. If you are prone to motion sickness, talk with your doctor prior to departure to help ensure your comfort while travelling.
Will I see the midnight sun and the Northern Lights?
The midnight sun occurs north of the Arctic Polar Circle depending on how far north you are and the time of year. On our West Greenland voyages, you can experience 24-hour sunlight from the end of May to the end of July – and on Svalbard for an even longer period of time. Nights are still bright in the weeks before and after this time. Please refer to the practical info segment of each voyage for more specific details about each journey.
Aurora Borealis or Northern Lights occur all year round but are only visible in the dark. In order to see the Northern Lights, you need a dark, clear night. They are mostly visible from late August to early April around the Arctic circle and can be seen nearly 24 hours a day during the winter months.
To see the Aurora in Antarctica, you need to travel as close to the Antarctic winter as possible, with peak conditions occurring between March and September. Please refer to the practical info segment of each voyage for more specific details about each journey.
EVALUATIONS
Where can I rate my experience with Albatros Expeditions?
Before disembarkation at the end of your voyage, you are welcome to submit your rating and feedback on your experience.
LOST ITEMS
What should I do if I have forgotten something on board after my journey?
In case of a forgotten item on board, please get in touch with us at info@albatros-expeditions.com.
ABOUT ALBATROS EXPEDITIONS
Who are we?
Albatros Expeditions is a family-owned company. We are part of the Albatros group, a company with decades of know-how in the travel industry around the world and an emphasis on our home turf, the Nordic region. We are ambitious, aiming to become a leading polar expedition company, with a focus on exceptional service, excursions, high-quality activities, and educational content.
What is the Albatros Travel Group?
A Scandinavian travel company with a global wingspan, Albatros Travel has grown from a small office in Copenhagen, Denmark to an international player with offices around the world.
‘Albatros’ is the Danish spelling of ‘albatross’ - the globetrotting bird with a big wingspan! From safaris and cruises to Arctic expeditions and Adventure Marathons in the African bush, Albatros Travel spans the world with our unique packages.
From our humble beginnings in 1986, our family-owned company now employs more than 250 full-time staff across six continents.
All of Albatros Travel’s different business operations are united under the same set of principles governing/guiding the Albatros Way: a commitment to quality, responsible travel and customer satisfaction.
What is our vision?
As a family-owned polar expedition company, we aim to be an industry leader by focusing on sustainability and diversity; we deliver experiences a lifetime for our guests.
What is our mission?
From our beginnings as a Greenland expedition specialist, offering both ship and land-based adventures, we have grown to become one of the leading polar expedition operators in the world. We do this by offering our guests and partners the stability, trust, authenticity and the true care of a family-owned business: Nordic hospitality, service, and quality standards, focus on diversity and sustainability, a true passion for active exploration, and providing unique, innovative and educational experiences. We offer unbeatable experience value for money because we are a no-nonsense family business with a flat management structure.
NEWSLETTER
How do I sign up to your newsletter?
Subscribe to the Albatros Expeditions Travel Advisor newsletter here, for the latest news and updates, new products, product changes, corona updates, latest availability, and much more!
How do I unsubscribe from the newsletter?
At the very bottom of the newsletter, you will find the text "Unsubscribe me from this list". Click there and follow the instructions.
PERSONAL INFORMATION
How does Albatros handle my personal information?
Your personal information belongs to you and it is important for Albatros Expeditions to protect what you share with us. The purpose of Albatros Expeditions' personal data policy is to explain in a concise and transparent way how we collect, transfer, use and protect your personal information. Albatros Expeditions has a clear ambition of minimizing the distribution of your personal information and creating a high degree of transparency in relation to this information.
Albatros Expeditions voyages are staffed with English-speaking expedition personnel with extensive experience in the regions being visited. The expedition staff has the task of guiding you through your journey and helping along the way. In order to do this, we typically provide information about name, date and time of arrival and departure. In addition to that we cater to special requests for the transfer or the excursion, including ordering of special menus and, if applicable, special assistance requirements due to disability or illness.
JOB AT ALBATROS EXPEDITIONS
Where can I find current vacancies at Albatros Expeditions?
Please visit our online Career Portal to see our current vacancies, submit an application or register to be notified about new openings.
Please note that we do not directly hire the crew manning our vessels. For crew vacancies, please contact CMI Ship Management / CMI Leisure. You can find their contact details on our Career Portal as well.
MEDIA CONTACT
How can I contact Albatros Expeditions regarding media inquiries, influencer opportunities, and other media and press-related requests?
We value our collaborations with the media and always look forward to questions, interview requests, and other ways of informing the public of our services. If you are interested in an interview or obtaining press information, please click here. For signing up to our Media List, please click here.
If you are interested in a media trip or Social Media influencer collaboration opportunities, please fill out and submit this form.
Please note that due to the volume of applications we receive, Albatros Expeditions is unable to respond to every inquiry or provide status updates. You can expect a response from one of our staff members within 12-15 working days. If we see that your application is a good fit for one of our upcoming projects, we will contact you directly via the email provided on your application.
GENERAL CONTACT
For non-press-related inquiries, please use our general contact page.
The trip was terrific with great planning on your part. Most of the adventures were not mainstream and somewhat off the beaten path which made it especially enjoyable!! We felt taken care of and you all were readily available to respond to questions and issues. I would highly recommend your company and friends have already expressed interest based on our pictures and excitement.
Gale Cantor
1 hour ago
Answered our questions
Michael Schneck
1 day ago
Adventure Life seems to be an honest company and has been quite helpful in the planning process. Good about answering questions.
Chris Dralle
1 week ago
Wonderful personal attention to detail and very helpful suggestions by experienced travel experts
John K
1 week ago
Franny has been such an amazing help with all my trip planning. This is our 3rd trip to plan with her and she is always so willing to assist and find the best deals for my family and friends.
Suzanne Turbyfill
1 week ago
Our advisor at Adventure Life, Mary Curry, was knowledgable and quick to respond with answers to any questions we had. She made our booking efficiently and set up a time for us to make a secure payment through her directly. We’ve used Adventure Life repeatedly and would definitely recommend it.
