The Adventure You've Always Wanted: A Journey to the White Lung, Antarctica and the Arctic
1 de December de 2023
Destinations that Excite and Feel New Every Time. We’re talking about those destinations for the most adventurous and curious travelers, for those who have always dreamed of reaching the ends of the earth and are not deterred by extreme weather conditions and uncertainty. In return, they have the opportunity to admire nature in its purest form. And what destinations are more isolated, remote, and interesting than Antarctica and the Arctic?
Why Travel to Antarctica and the Arctic?
A few years ago, a journey through Antarctica was unattainable for most travelers. Today, it is not only an experience accessible to all but more than recommendable. Antarctica is pure inspiration, the most remote continent of all, and therefore, is surrounded by a certain mysterious aura.
It is composed of 98% ice, hence it offers astonishing white and icy landscapes. Despite its low temperatures, it is possible to find a rich wildlife. The rugged ice cliffs, icebergs, and glaciers are the dominant note throughout the journey, although the horizon also appears dotted with other inhabitants such as penguins, whales, and seals.
Because both territories are icy, Antarctica and the Arctic are often confused. While the former is located in the South Pole, the latter is located in the North Pole. This means that these two regions are located at opposite points of the world, although both are equally impressive. When talking about the Arctic, we refer to an extensive ocean of frozen water that bathes six countries: Canada, the United States (Alaska), Russia, Denmark (Greenland), Iceland, and Norway.
On a trip through the Arctic, then, you can expect natural wonders such as glaciers, fjords, and picturesque populations that contrast with the white of the landscape.
A Cruise on Ice with All the Comforts
With temperatures that for much of the year do not rise above 0 ºC, it seems logical to make this journey aboard a ship that provides maximum comfort in these inhospitable lands.
To explore the Antarctic region, Albatros Expeditions, a company specializing in expeditions in the polar regions, proposes the Ocean Victory ship. This boat is modern and small in size, ideal for accessing and getting as close as possible to nature. It has a total of 93 cabins with sea views and most of them with their own balcony. It is 100% equipped, equipped with several restaurants, event rooms, a terrace, a spa, and a gym.
On the other hand, the Ocean Albatros ship is the most recent addition to the Albatros Expeditions family. Of similar size and facilities to the previous one, this ship has become one of the most popular expedition cruises in the world. Among its most outstanding features, this ship hosts an exclusive panoramic sauna to admire the icy landscapes in a warm environment and also cabins for passengers traveling alone.
Become a Polar Explorer on an Inspiring Cruise
Albatros Expeditions adapts to the times and needs of each traveler. Their goal is to offer an unforgettable polar expedition aboard their modern and state-of-the-art ships. What do you expect from the adventure of your life?
Discover Antarctica in Depth
Expedition cruises through Antarctica start from 9 days and can last up to three weeks. They usually depart from Ushuaia, the southernmost city in Argentina, and cross the iconic Drake Passage. Depending on the selected route, they can include excursions to the South Shetland Islands, the Falkland Islands, or the South Sandwich Islands before disembarking on the Antarctic continent. On these islands, you can expect landscapes of coves, volcanic craters, and a mix of cultures.
Journeys that Contemplate Explorations in the Zodiac Journeys usually contemplate explorations in the Zodiac, a type of boat that allows you to get closer to the beauty of this icy environment. Some itineraries also include kayak rides to closely observe glaciers and whales, seals, and penguins in their natural habitat, and visits to historical cabins to learn how life was in Antarctica in yesteryears. Without a doubt, these cruises will delight photography lovers.
Explore the Landscapes of the Arctic
If you’re interested in embarking on a cruise to the North Pole, joining a ship expedition through the Arctic will be a dream come true. These journeys combine ice scenarios, but also Nordic architecture and, above all, a lot of adventure. Depending on the selected cruise, you will have the opportunity to visit the main populations of Greenland and the Svalbard archipelago or Iceland.
With a duration of between 6 and 12 days, Albatros Expeditions’ Arctic expedition cruises are great for those who want to see a lot in a few days. The itinerary proposes the contemplation of abundant fauna, such as the reindeer of Svalbard, the Arctic foxes, and the puffins. If you’re lucky, there’s even the possibility of spotting the king of these lands: the impressive polar bear.
The landscapes you will contemplate during the Arctic expedition cruise range from traditional villages to fjords, green plains, northern lights, sites declared World Heritage by UNESCO and rugged mountains. All this while you delve into remote cultures, like the Inuit, hand in hand with their locals.
If you consider yourself an intrepid traveler, an expedition cruise through Antarctica or the Arctic is what’s missing from your destination list. Sail through icy waters and prepare your camera, as you will be waiting for snapshots that are hard to beat. Albatros Expeditions proposes an epic journey, one that is not forgotten. As a couple, with friends, or alone, any alternative is good to travel to the ends of the world.