Important Information For Antarctica - Albatros Expeditions
Important Information For Antarctica - Albatros Expeditions
Important Information For Antarctica - Albatros Expeditions
1
About Traveling to Antarctica with Albatros Expeditions
Traveling to Antarctica on an expedition voyage differs from participating in large cruise ship voyages as it is
not possible to the same extent to plan all details of the cruise. Many elements of the voyage are hard to
predict and description of the itinerary and the places to visit are subject to changes. Wind, ice and currents all
play their part in the voyage, which may cause changes in the program.
The Expedition Leader, together with the Captain, will always discuss and coordinate the route and daily
program. They will ensure the greatest possible benefit from the voyage, based on the current conditions –
and the possibility to observe whales and other Antarctica animals.
What makes expedition voyages special is the possibility to cruise close to sights, glaciers, wildlife, bird colonies.
To further enhance the experience, Zodiac boats are often used to bring the guests to shore, and Zodiacs also
provide an excellent way of getting even closer to Antarctica’s stunning nature.
Antarctica is the largest wilderness area on earth, unaffected by large-scale human activities. Accordingly, this
unique and pristine environment has been afforded special protection. Furthermore, it is physically remote,
inhospitable, unpredictable and potentially dangerous, and in that regards, we encourage all passengers to
take out proper medical and evacuation insurance prior to your voyage.
In order to participate in the expedition with Albatros Expeditions, please remember to fill out the participant
declaration and contact information form. If this has not yet been done, please do so as soon as possible.
https://albatros-expeditions.com/participant-declaration-and-contact-information
IAATO Information
International Association of Antarctica Tour Operators (IAATO) is a member organization founded in 1991 to
advocate and promote the practice of safe and environmentally responsible private-sector travel to the
Antarctic. In this regard, IAATO has created a set of guidelines for responsible behavior while in Antarctica.
That is also why it is important to go on an Antarctica expedition cruise with an IAATO member tour operator,
since IAATO members have demonstrated the knowledge and expertise to making a visit to Antarctica the trip
of a lifetime, while also promoting safe and environmentally responsible travel to and in the region.
2
In accordance to IAATO guidelines, Albatros Expeditions contributes to ensuring the protection of Antarctica
for future generations. As vital parts of our obligations to the Antarctic Treaty Governments and IAATO we
kindly ask you to read the documents ‘Guidance for Visitors to Antarctica’ and ‘Don’t Pack a Pest’; as well as to
pay close attention to all IAATO briefings on board during your voyage.
https://iaato.org/da/visitor-guidelines
Be safe
Travel in Antarctica areas may involve various risks. Rule number one is that you must always pay attention to
and follow the instructions given by your expedition leader or guide. Never stray from your group.
Biosecurity Guidelines
Help protect the Antarctica Environment
The Antarctica remains one of the most pristine natural environments in the world. IAATO’s biosecurity
guidelines aim to minimize the risk of future introductions of non-native species to the Antarctica. Non-native
species can spread to the Antarctica through our activities there. By following a few simple steps in these
guidelines, you can help prevent this.
If you notice organic matter on boots, clothing or gear, make sure to clean it off.
Be a responsible visitor
One of the main ways non-native species can spread to the Antarctica is by our activities there. Seeds,
microorganisms, and even insects can hitchhike to the Antarctica on footwear, attached to clothing, or in bags
that have been used in the outdoors previously. By following a few simple steps, you can ensure that your visit
don’t lead to non-native species being introduced to the Antarctica.
3
Before leaving home
Examine and clean clothes, footwear, and bags thoroughly. Examine and clean all clothing, including pockets,
seams, Velcro fasteners, and footwear soles for dirt and organic material. Use a vacuum cleaner, brushes, and
water where necessary to ensure all seeds and dirt have been removed. This is especially important if you have
used your clothing and equipment previously in parklands or rural settings, or other polar regions.
Waste
Do not deposit any litter or garbage on land nor discard it into the sea.
At stations or camps smoke only at designated areas, to avoid litter and risk of fire to structures. Collect
ash and litter for disposal outside Antarctica.
Ensure that all equipment and rubbish is always secured in such a way as to prevent dispersal into the
environment through high winds or wildlife foraging.
Wilderness values
Do not disturb or pollute lakes, streams, rivers or other water bodies (e.g. by walking, washing yourself or
your equipment, throwing stones, etc.)
Do not paint or engrave names or graffiti on any manmade or natural surface in Antarctica.
Do not take souvenirs, whether manmade, biological or geological items, including feathers, bones, eggs,
vegetation, soil, rocks, meteorites or fossils.
Be Safe
Be prepared for severe and changeable weather. Ensure that your equipment and clothing meet Antarctic
standards. Remember that the Antarctic environment is inhospitable, unpredictable and potentially
dangerous.
Be a Responsible Visitor
Despite known introductions of non-native species, Antarctica remains a relatively pristine environment.
Human activity has the potential to act as a vector for non-native species. Across the continent, science
programs and tour operators are working to minimize the risk of humans being a vector for transporting non-
native species into and within the Antarctic.
Practical Information
When going on an expedition cruise to Antarctica with Albatros Expeditions there are several things to
remember and take into consideration before the voyage.
Antarctica is extreme – a frozen desert-land with barren, rocky coastlines flanked by crisp white icebergs and
deep blue seas. The conditions can be severe and inhospitable. During the austral summer (November –
March), when we cross the famed Drake’s Passage to the Antarctic Peninsula, nature is pulsating with
kaleidoscopic weather, wildlife and even plant life, such as the continent’s only two flowering plants: the
Antarctic pearl wart and Antarctic hair grass.
Climate
Depending on your chosen itinerary, you are bound to encounter a wide range of climates. There will typically
be warm almost tropical days in Buenos Aires, crisp temperate weather in Patagonia and the Falkland Islands
and near-freezing temperatures on the Antarctic Peninsula. Really, Antarctica is a frozen desert where winds
shape the surface of snow and ice, and average annual precipitation is only 10cm.
5
Gearing Up – What to bring
An expedition cruise to the Antarctica requires a relatively large variation of clothing. On shore, we can
expect temperatures of -2°C to 4°C. On the ocean – when observing wildlife from the decks – temperatures
will rarely be above 2 degrees. Add to this a strong and often humid wind and the necessity of warm wind-
and waterproof clothes, gloves and hats becomes obvious.
So, what is the secret of keeping warm in the Arctic summer? Layers! They insulate trapped air, and you can
adjust them as needed depending if you are feeling hot or cold. Proper and suitable clothing is a necessity for
the voyage. Select lightweight technical fabrics engineered to wick moisture away, while keeping you dry and
warm. This could for example be, from the inside out, a wool base layer, a sweater or fleece as the mid layer
and wind- and waterproof jacket as the out layer. On the legs, it could 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 to wear on board and excellent for dry landings. On
board the ship, the dress code is casual, so the most important to bring is practical clothes to wear on board
and for landings/excursions. However, some guests choose to dress up for dinner.
Sunscreen
Although Antarctica is far south, the rays of the sun are still very strong – both day and night. Therefore, we
highly recommend brining a high SPF sunscreen.
Seasickness
On an expedition cruise you may at times experience large swells and rough seas. There are various alternatives
to combat seasickness, such as seasickness patches or seasickness pills. Seasickness medication also come in
different active ingredients and what works for one person may not work for another. Please also note that
medication against motion sickness can cause drowsiness. If in doubt what is the best option for you, please
consult your doctor or a health care professional prior to your departure. The ship will carry a limited number
of seasick pills for sale in the reception. We highly recommend bringing your own seasickness medication.
6
Rubber Boot Rentals
We offer sturdy, high quality boots for rent (free of charge) for the duration of your trip. These boots will be
your private pair for the entire voyage to wear during landings and hikes. We have boots in the size 35 to 47
(EU sizes)
Zodiac Excursions
Many wonders, what is a Zodiac and are the excursions safe? Rest assured, the Zodiac brand has earned a well-
deserved reputation as the sturdiest and safest small watercraft available. These boats are constructed for
professional use and are outfitted with a top-quality outboard engine, yet their design minimally affects the
environment. Your safety and comfort are our #1 priority, and your Expedition Leader will carefully plan as many
Zodiac excursions as possible, depending on weather and prevailing conditions. Participation can be challenging
for those with physical disadvantages.
Language
The official language aboard Ocean Atlantic is English; however, our expedition team and crew are
knowledgeable in a variety of languages. If there is a large group, desiring communication in their own language,
we will make special arrangements to accommodate these needs.
Onboard Briefings
The Expedition Leader will conduct regularly scheduled briefings to highlight key points in the itinerary, organize
excursions and communicate important information. Please participate in all briefings onboard.
Cabin Service
Your cabin is serviced daily. We provide a turndown service.
After check-in our reception will pre-authorize your credit card for 100 USD per credit card. This guarantees
that the credit card is open and there are funds available to pay for any charges incurred during the cruise,
such as the cost of purchase in the shop or at bar/restaurant. The initial preauthorization will be removed after
a few days and the amount will not be charged.
Most credit cards are secured with an automatic, geographic control. As a starting point, your card is only active
for purchases in your country of residence and online, until you use it in another country. When you are on a
voyage, sometimes it can occur that a transaction is declined by the bank due to this geographic control.
To avoid this, we recommend activating your card in advance, not just to the locations you’ll be visiting during
your trip, but also Miami, USA, where the payment system of Ocean Atlantic is registered. You can do this by
contacting your credit card provider regarding the use of your credit cards abroad and informing them of your
voyage, activating the locations you’re visiting as well as the US, and the duration of this overseas activation
until your return home. Be sure to contact your credit card provider regarding use of your credit cards overseas.
7
Visa, MasterCard and American Express credit cards are all accepted. Alternatively, you can deposit cash (US$).
At the end of the voyage, your account will be settled by the payment methods mentioned above. All prices
and payment on board are in US$.
Before and after the cruise in Ushuaia, most shops and restaurants accept credit cards. There are also several
ATMs around Ushuaia if you wish to withdraw local currency. Please note that taxis do not accept credit cards,
but payment in US$ is normally possible if agreed in advance.
Gratuities
Following international standards in the service industry, it is customary to leave gratuity for the ship’s crew at
the end of the voyage. All gratuities are divided among the crew. Gratuity is voluntary, but it is a custom to
show appreciation to the hardworking crew. The ship will send out a letter regarding gratuity some days before
disembarkation that they will automatically charge the gratuity to the onboard account unless there are any
questions or objections. The gratuity per person per day is 13.50 US$. In case of any questions or
disagreements, please speak directly with the reception on board.
Internet signal is downloaded to the vessel via satellite connection and distributed on board through a Wi-Fi
system. Connection to the ship’s Wi-Fi net with your phone or computer is available for a charge from the
reception. The quality and speed of the internet is dependent on the number of users and the satellite
receiving conditions, especially the further south, we cruise. In Antarctica we can often experience total
block-out of the signal. Contact the Reception for prices and Wi-Fi set-up for your device. Remember to
switch off ‘Data Roaming’ function on your mobile device. For further details, please contact your mobile
phone operator.
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. Please be aware that the ship does not provide wheelchair
accessible cabins.
Due to safety reasons, a cruise is only possible for pregnant women until the 24th week of pregnancy. A medical
certificate must indicate the state of pregnancy and presented upon request during check-in.
Alcohol
Bringing alcohol aboard is generally not encouraged. It is, however, possible to consume alcohol brought on
board in public areas at a small “corkage fee” of ca US$20 per bottle, charged to guest’s onboard account. A
large variety of alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages are served on board in the restaurant and bar.
Smoking
For safety reasons and to protect the health of our guests and employees, smoking is only permitted in
designated areas on the outside decks. Smoking is not permitted inside the vessel, in the cabin or near the
8
Zodiacs. Please remember to respect our natural environments and dispose of cigarette butts only in
designated ashtrays and bins.
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 Atlantic 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.
Kayaking in Antarctica
Glide through the waters and take in the royal grace of the icebergs, see the varied birds, seals and maybe even
whales in their natural habitat. Paddle through this scenery under the supervision of experienced kayaking
guides who will ensure your safety during each outing. Due to the colossal nature of this location, it is important
to maintain certain precautions and to understand that these kayak excursions are solely dependent on
favorable weather conditions.
This adventure activity will run separate from, though simultaneous to, Zodiac cruising and landing activities.
Duration: 2-4 hours per each kayak excursion, depending on timings, weather and ice conditions.
Clothing & Equipment: The equipment provided by Albatros Expeditions – such as the dry suits – has been
chosen based on research by professional experts in the field, to maximize comfort and minimize risk. You are
welcome to bring your own dry suit, but the Kayak Master must check it before the kayak excursion, to ensure
it complies with safety standards. Everyone participating is required to wear a dry suit during the entirety of
the activity.
9
A clothing layering system is more effective for Antarctica and for any extreme cold conditions. Build an outfit
through several layers: create a foundation layer that keeps moisture away and keeps the body warm, a mid-
layer that traps body heat and insulates, and a waterproof outer layer that allows the body to breathe but also
protects you from strong winds. Participants should also wear winter gear for the extremities to allow mobility
and maintain body heat. Everything participants wear under the dry suit is their own responsibility to bring to
Antarctica.
Pre-requisites to participate:
You are required to have minimum standard skill level and previous kayaking experience. We recommend you
book a kayaking outing in regular surroundings as practice before the expedition.
You are required to have basic training in sea kayaking strokes, entries, exits, as well as a wet exit. Our
guides will determine the competence of those allowed to participate in the outings.
You must participate in all kayak related briefings on board.
The Kayak Master decides who is capable of participation based on previous experience and who is not
capable of participating in a kayak excursion.
Due to precautionary measures, participants are not to be under the influence of any substance during
these outings.
The Kayak Master has the right to assess each situation and the qualification of each participant.
The Kayak Master may decide to pull out a participant from the excursion, if this participant does not
comply with directions during the kayak excursion.
You are required to have travel and medical insurance that is verifiable during the expedition.
The items you find at the Albatros Ocean Shop have been chosen by the Albatros Expeditions’ team with
warmth, mobility and comfort in mind.
We also have a selection of items for all ages, essential items, souvenirs and other accessories for your friends
and family back home.
Visit our shop to pick the perfect souvenir, gift, t-shirt, jewellery created especially for Albatros Expeditions and
the voyage, or one of the cute cuddly toys for sale, and get a copy of The Polar Handbook, Albatros Expeditions
founder’s latest book release.
Visit the Albatros Ocean Shop on Deck 5 behind the reception. Opening hours will be posted on board the ship.
Upon check-in on the ship, 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 check-in at
the pier. Please ensure that you write clearly in capital letters:
Full name
Cabin number
It is important that ALL pieces of luggage have the luggage stickers on them. Please attach these to your check-
in luggage prior to check-in at the pier.
10
Check-in will be possible at the vessel in Ushuaia between 1400 hours and 1600 hours on departure date.
Upon check-in on the ship, 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 check-in at
the pier. Please ensure that you write clearly in capital letters:
Full name
Cabin number
It is important that ALL pieces of luggage have the luggage stickers on them. Please attach these to your check-
in luggage prior to check-in at the pier.
Check-in will be possible at the vessel in Ushuaia between 1400 hours and 1600 hours on departure date.
From a small office in Copenhagen, Denmark, the company now employs more than 250 full-time staff in
branches across three continents. Being one of the first Scandinavian travel companies to send guests on safari,
we have perfected and honed our offerings to provide authentic bush experiences for even the most seasoned
travellers. Initially focused on Africa, today Albatros Travel offers tours and cruises throughout the world, as
well as owning the Albatros Adventure brand that arranges and hosts marathons in exotic locations, such as
the Greenland ice sheet, African savannah and the Great Wall of China.
Three decades ago, Albatros Artic Circle were a pioneer travel operator to venture into the arctic wilderness of
Greenland. Today, Albatros Artic Circle have cemented their presence in Kangerlussuaq in the form of a local
office offering business-to-business services, a restaurant, gift shop, two hotels and a portfolio of exciting
excursions. In Ilulissat, they own and operate both a hotel and a tour operations company. Staff in both places
has either lived there for their entire life or for many years. Whether you choose an exciting dog sled ride,
kayaking, tundra safari or sightseeing tour, AAC’s team looks forward to sharing their Greenland with you. Our
passion for Greenland is all encompassing and reflected in everything done here. When choosing Albatros
Arctic Circle, you are guaranteed to receive an authentic Greenlandic experience.
Albatros Travel also has refitted luxury cruise ships that sail voyagers to the more isolated corners of the Arctic.
A family company, Albatros Travel remains privately owned and has been awarded the AA credit rating for the
financial security of its operations.
All our different business operations are united under the same set of principles that govern the Albatros Way:
a commitment to quality, responsible travel and customer satisfaction.
11