Greenland: Disko Bay & Beyond
Come aboard 194-guest Ocean Victory or 192-guest Ocean Albatros to explore the highlights of West Greenland’s Disko Bay region. Marvel at towering icebergs at the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Ilulissat Icefjord, meet the locals, and hike and kayak among glaciers and dramatic mountains.
Join an epic adventure to Greenland’s Disko Bay and beyond. Marvel at towering icebergs at the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Ilulissat Icefjord, meet the locals, and experience Inuit culture. From colorful villages to glaciers, fjords and dramatic mountains, this voyage brings together the highlights of this storied land.
Even in Greenland’s larger towns, arctic nature is never far, and life moves to the rhythm of the sea, tides and midnight sun. Your journey begins in Kangerlussuaq, visiting Sisimiut, Greenland’s lively second city, then the basalt mountains of Qeqertarsuaq. Continue to the iconic as well as the stunning Eqip Sermia Glacier and Ilulissat Icefjord before returning to Kangerlussuaq via Itilleq, where traditional hunting and fishing thrive. With your ship’s fleet of Zodiacs, explore remote villages and arctic nature in supreme comfort and safety.
In 2026, the 8-day Greenland: Disko Bay & Beyond itinerary uniquely visits Uummannaq on the ‘Greenlandic Riviera.’ The heart-shaped mountain and Santa’s house here are both true Greenlandic landmarks. In 2027, the 7-day Greenland: Disko Bay & Ilulissat skips Uummannaq.
Purpose-built Ocean Albatros (192 guests) or Ocean Victory (194 guests) serves as your floating basecamp. These ice-breaker polar ships feature modern technology, state-of-the-art efficiency, a smooth ride and nimble design for active off-ship excursions. Their fleet of Zodiacs and kayaks, plus citizen science equipment, keep travelers active outside the boat. And their inviting lecture room and library, plus relaxing wellness amenities, keep guests engaged between excursions.
Read on for details about this trip, or learn more about AdventureSmith’s Arctic cruises, Greenland small ship cruises and Arctic trips.
Greenland: Disko Bay & Ilulissat Itinerary
This 7-day cruise operates round-trip from Kangerlussuaq, Greenland and explores the top sites of West Greenland, featuring colorful villages to glaciers, fjords and dramatic mountains.
On Day 1, arrive in Kangerlussuaq, Greenland’s only inland town and a key air hub with a rich Cold War history. Upon arrival, transfer by Zodiac to the Ocean Albatros, settle into your cabin, complete a safety drill, and then toast with champagne as you begin your journey through the stunning Kangerlussuaq fjord.
Sisimiut is Greenland’s second-largest city, with around 5,400 residents. Inhabited since 2,500 BC by Paleo-Inuit peoples, the area holds ancient remains on nearby Tele Island, which can be reached on a refreshing hike. Founded as Holsteinsborg in 1756, Sisimiut features well-preserved historic buildings like the Blue Church from 1775, situated in the city’s charming museum quarter. Today, Sisimiut is a key hub for education and industry, hosting one of Greenland’s largest fish processing plants and the supply company KNI, which services remote settlements. The city blends traditional and modern Arctic life—explore the cultural center Taseralik, the city museum and the famous art workshop, and taste Greenlandic delicacies.
Qeqertarsuaq is a picturesque town nestled beneath Disko Island’s towering basalt mountains. Once the heart of North Greenland’s whaling economy, the town shifted focus to hunting, fishing and growing tourism after the industry declined. Qeqertarsuaq’s rich volcanic soil and mild microclimate create uncommonly lush greenery, attracting locals and visitors to its rugged beauty, colorful houses and excellent hiking. In the afternoon, explore the dramatic coastline of nearby Kuannit by Zodiac, famed for lush tundra, caves, waterfalls and stunning icebergs, before heading deeper into the heart of Disko Bay.
Eqip Sermia (a descriptive Greenlandic name meaning ‘the Glacier at the End of the Fjord’) is a relatively small glacier for Greenland, although it is still a truly vast river of ice, flowing directly from the Ice Sheet. It is also one of the most active, and ice constantly tumbles off the vast glacier-front. If conditions allow, the crew will launch the ship’s fleet of Zodiacs for you to approach this vast river of ice, and hopefully for you to experience the roar of the glacier’s frequent calvings at sea level (from a safe distance of course)!
Ilulissat—meaning “icebergs” in Kalaallisut—is the stunning Iceberg Capital of the World, home to the UNESCO-listed Ilulissat Icefjord, accessible on a gentle walk from the harbor. This 43-mile (70km) fjord leads to Sermeq Kujalleq, the largest glacier outside Antarctica, which drains 13% of the Greenland Ice Sheet and produces 10% of the Northern Hemisphere’s icebergs—more than the entire U.S. annual water supply! Founded 280 years ago and the birthplace of legendary Arctic explorer Knud Rasmussen, Ilulissat is Greenland’s third largest town, rich in culture and adventure. Enjoy fresh local seafood, vibrant markets and elegant art galleries. The hiking trails around the Icefjord are a must-do for visitors, who may also choose thrilling optional boat or flightseeing tours to witness the raw power of the ice up close.
Itilleq–meaning “the Crossing Place from the Sea”–is a picturesque village nestled among mountains and fjords just north of the Arctic Circle. Located at the edge of the Aassivisuit-Nipisat UNESCO World Heritage Site, it preserves a rich Inuit hunting heritage dating back thousands of years. Modern colorful houses have replaced turf huts, but locals still rely on Arctic char, reindeer and muskox, blending tradition with modern life. Warm Greenlandic hospitality welcomes visitors eager to explore this wonderfully homely hamlet.
As your journey concludes, sail up the 99-mile (160km) Kangerlussuaq Fjord and disembark by Zodiac after a fond farewell to the ship’s expedition team and crew. Though Kangerlussuaq is more known for its Cold War-era military roots and role as a transport hub than its cultural heritage, its surrounding wilderness offers striking natural beauty. Originally built by the U.S. military in the 1950s, the town retains a utilitarian charm. Your Arctic adventure ends at the modern airport, with lasting memories of Greenland’s wild landscapes.
Included
Arrival transfer from airport to ship (Day 1); shipboard accommodations; waterproof expedition jacket, yours to keep, and rubber style muck boots on loan for the duration of your expedition; English-speaking expedition team; guided walks, nature hikes, Zodiac landings and excursions, as per itinerary (excluding optional activities with cost); briefings and educational lectures; citizen science program; all meals on the ship (full board): breakfast, lunch, dinner and snacks; complimentary house wine, beer and soft drinks at lunch and dinner (selected labels and brands, no wine at lunch); 24-hour access to tea, coffee and ‘Grab and Go’ comfort food; welcome and farewell cocktail parties; taxes and landing fees; 500MB Complimentary WiFi for use on your personal device; digital expedition memento.
Exclusions
Mandatory return transfer charter flight package ($1,300 in 2027; see Internal Flights for details); international or internal airfares unless listed in the itinerary; excursions and activities not mentioned in the itinerary (such as optional, added-cost activities); meals and beverages not listed as included; voluntary gratuity for the crew and expedition team; personal expenses such as spa services, boutique purchases, bar, laundry and communications unless specified; mandatory travel insurance and insurance of any kind; visa, reciprocity and passport fees; medical care or emergency evacuation; expedition jacket and rubber muck-style boots outside of available sizes (inquire for more details); life jackets for selected minors (inquire for more details); premium alcohol and any alcohol not mentioned in Inclusions; WiFi from personal devices in excess of the 500 MB provided.
Payment & Cancellation
In order to confirm this trip, a deposit of 20% of the total trip cost is required per person at time of booking. The balance of the trip price is due 120 days before the departure date. Special holiday payment and cancellation terms may apply. Guests who must cancel their trip for any reason must do so in writing. Standard cancellations are subject to the following per-person fees, based on number of days prior to departure:
Up to 181 days – $1,250 cancellation fee
180 to 120 days – 100% of deposit
119 to 0 days – 100% of total trip cost
Terms & Conditions
This trip is subject to AdventureSmith Explorations Terms and Conditions. Please read this information carefully and call us if you have any questions. A Traveler Information Form, which includes a release of liability, must be completed and signed by all travelers. Your Adventure Specialist will send you a unique link to complete this form along with a packing list and extensive pre-departure and travel insurance information upon booking confirmation.
Arrival & Departure
The Greenland: Disko Bay & Ilulissat cruise begins and ends in Copenhagen, Denmark (CPH), with mandatory charter flights linking travelers to the embark/disembark point of Kangerlussuaq, Greenland. Plan flights to arrive to Copenhagen any time before Day 1 of the itinerary. Transfers in Kangerlussuaq are included. The estimated disembarkation time from the vessel is 8:00am on the last day of the itinerary, followed by a mandatory charter flight to Copenhagen. We recommend booking your return flight from Copenhagen for the day after disembarkation, in case of unintended delays due to weather or sea conditions. If you would like assistance with international flights, please visit our Booking Flights resource page.
Internal Flights
Mandatory round-trip group charter flights between Kangerlussuaq and Copenhagen are part of this trip’s itinerary (see Exclusions for pricing). Detailed information is available approximately 11 months prior to departure. The flight to Kangerlussuaq is expected to depart early on Day 1 of the itinerary. A group transfer from the Kangerlussuaq airport to the ship is part of the package. On the final day of the itinerary, the ship is scheduled to arrive at the pier around 8:00am local time. Disembarkation follows breakfast, with a transfer to the airport for the return charter flight to Copenhagen.
Activities
Various optional activities may be available on your Greenland: Disko Bay & Ilulissat cruise. Per-person prices for the 2027 season: discover kayaking $350; day boat trip to the ice fjord in Ilulissat $135; Ilulissat ice fjord flightseeing $465. A BBQ and trip to the reindeer glacier in Kangerlussuaq is included, as are photography, citizen science, trekking, the polar plunge and Zodiac cruises. Ilulissat and Kangerlussuaq activities are operated by local, third parties. For the discover kayaking program, the minimum required age is 14 and all kayakers under 18 must be accompanied by an adult; weight limit is 260 pounds per person. Discover kayaking one-time paddling excursions are available for those who want something less in-depth than the immersive kayaking program; no experience is necessary. Each departure’s discover kayaking excursion may be pre-booked or booked on the ship.
The immersive photography program ($315 in 2027) is available to a small group of experienced photographers (minimum 5, maximum 10) and includes daily outings (including priority disembarkation) with an award-winning photo instructor who can provide input in the field, plus onboard workshops and image reviews.
Note: Activities are capacity-controlled; book early via your Adventure Specialist to reserve your space. A nonrefundable deposit of 20% of the activity fee is required per person at time of booking.
Room Configuration
Single travelers (18+ only) wishing to book a double-occupancy cabin may do so at 1.7x the per-person listed rate in select cabins upon availability. Solo travelers willing to share can reserve a triple or twin-shared cabin, where you will be matched with a person of the same gender. If the other cabin berth goes unsold, you will be guaranteed the double rate. Aboard Ocean Albatros and Ocean Victory, third person rates are available at 50% reduction of the double occupancy rate, in Junior Suites and Deck 4 Superior Balcony Suites (inquire for pricing).
Families & Children
Children must be at least 12 years of age to participate in an Arctic voyage. However, on a case-by-case basis, children ages 7-11 may be accepted with additional screening prior to booking. Children under 18 years old must room with a responsible adult who is designated as the lead passenger on the booking.
Travel Insurance
Medical insurance and emergency medical evacuation insurance is mandatory for this trip, with a minimum recommended coverage of $150,000 USD per person. This plan must cover personal injury, medical expenses, repatriation expenses, evacuation expenses and pre-existing medical conditions. Trip cancellation insurance is optional but highly recommended. Our partners at Travelex Insurance offer a variety of plans and policies to fit every trip and budget. For best value and coverage for pre-existing medical conditions, consider purchasing a policy at time of booking. Learn more about travel insurance or get a free quote.
Itinerary Notes
Read this itinerary as a guide only; the exact route and program varies according to ice, weather conditions, wildlife encountered and the captain’s discretion. Flexibility is the key to the success of any Arctic expedition.
Greenland: Disko Bay & Beyond Itinerary
This 8-day cruise operates round-trip from Kangerlussuaq, Greenland and explores the top sites of West Greenland. The 8-day itinerary uniquely visits Uummannaq on the ‘Greenlandic Riviera.’
On Day 1, arrive in Kangerlussuaq, Greenland’s only inland town and a key air hub with a rich Cold War history. Upon arrival, transfer by Zodiac to the Ocean Albatros, settle into your cabin, complete a safety drill, and then toast with champagne as you begin your journey through the stunning Kangerlussuaq fjord.
Sisimiut is Greenland’s second-largest city, with around 5,400 residents. Inhabited since 2,500 BC by Paleo-Inuit peoples, the area holds ancient remains on nearby Tele Island, which can be reached on a refreshing hike. Founded as Holsteinsborg in 1756, Sisimiut features well-preserved historic buildings like the Blue Church from 1775, situated in the city’s charming museum quarter. Today, Sisimiut is a key hub for education and industry, hosting one of Greenland’s largest fish processing plants and the supply company KNI, which services remote settlements. The city blends traditional and modern Arctic life—explore the cultural center Taseralik, the city museum and the famous art workshop, and taste Greenlandic delicacies.
Qeqertarsuaq is a picturesque town nestled beneath Disko Island’s towering basalt mountains. Once the heart of North Greenland’s whaling economy, the town shifted focus to hunting, fishing and growing tourism after the industry declined. Qeqertarsuaq’s rich volcanic soil and mild microclimate create uncommonly lush greenery, attracting locals and visitors to its rugged beauty, colorful houses and excellent hiking. In the afternoon, explore the dramatic coastline of nearby Kuannit by Zodiac, famed for lush tundra, caves, waterfalls and stunning icebergs, before heading north towards Uummannaq.
Uummannaq sits at the foot of its striking 3,838-foot (1,170m) “heart-shaped” mountain–a true Greenlandic landmark. Founded in 1763 by Danish colonists, the town blends historic charm with rich Inuit heritage. Today, Uummannaq is a lively community where locals sell traditional handicrafts in the town square and fresh fish at the bustling market, and locals are strongly connected to their traditional lifestyle. Visit the museum for an insight into local history, or hike to Santa’s house–another famous local landmark. As you sail into Uummannaq Fjord, take in breathtaking views of the iceberg-studded waters and towering peaks beneath the endless midnight sun.
Eqip Sermia (a descriptive Greenlandic name meaning ‘the Glacier at the End of the Fjord’) is a relatively small glacier for Greenland, although it is still a truly vast river of ice, flowing directly from the Ice Sheet. It is also one of the most active, and ice constantly tumbles off the vast glacier-front. If conditions allow, the crew will launch the ship’s fleet of Zodiacs for you to approach this vast river of ice, and hopefully for you to experience the roar of the glacier’s frequent calvings at sea level (from a safe distance of course)!
Ilulissat—meaning “icebergs” in Kalaallisut—is the stunning Iceberg Capital of the World, home to the UNESCO-listed Ilulissat Icefjord, accessible on a gentle walk from the harbor. This 43-mile (70km) fjord leads to Sermeq Kujalleq, the largest glacier outside Antarctica, which drains 13% of the Greenland Ice Sheet and produces 10% of the Northern Hemisphere’s icebergs—more than the entire U.S. annual water supply! Founded 280 years ago and the birthplace of legendary Arctic explorer Knud Rasmussen, Ilulissat is Greenland’s third largest town, rich in culture and adventure. Enjoy fresh local seafood, vibrant markets and elegant art galleries. The hiking trails around the Icefjord are a must-do for visitors, who may also choose thrilling optional boat or flightseeing tours to witness the raw power of the ice up close.
Itilleq–meaning “the Crossing Place from the Sea”–is a picturesque village nestled among mountains and fjords just north of the Arctic Circle. Located at the edge of the Aassivisuit-Nipisat UNESCO World Heritage Site, it preserves a rich Inuit hunting heritage dating back thousands of years. Modern colorful houses have replaced turf huts, but locals still rely on Arctic char, reindeer and muskox, blending tradition with modern life. Warm Greenlandic hospitality welcomes visitors eager to explore this wonderfully homely hamlet.
As your journey concludes, sail up the 99-mile (160km) Kangerlussuaq Fjord and disembark by Zodiac after a fond farewell to the ship’s expedition team and crew. Though Kangerlussuaq is more known for its Cold War-era military roots and role as a transport hub than its cultural heritage, its surrounding wilderness offers striking natural beauty. Originally built by the U.S. military in the 1950s, the town retains a utilitarian charm. Your Arctic adventure ends at the modern airport, with lasting memories of Greenland’s wild landscapes.
Included
Arrival transfer from airport to ship (Day 1); shipboard accommodations; waterproof expedition jacket, yours to keep, and rubber style muck boots on loan for the duration of your expedition; English-speaking expedition team; guided walks, nature hikes, Zodiac landings and excursions, as per itinerary (excluding optional activities with cost); briefings and educational lectures; citizen science program; all meals on the ship (full board): breakfast, lunch, dinner and snacks; complimentary house wine, beer and soft drinks at dinner (selected labels and brands); 24-hour access to tea, coffee and ‘Grab and Go’ comfort food; welcome and farewell cocktail parties; taxes and landing fees; 500MB Complimentary WiFi for use on your personal device; digital expedition memento.
Exclusions
Mandatory return transfer charter flight package ($1,300 in 2026; see Internal Flights for details); international or internal airfares unless listed in the itinerary; excursions and activities not mentioned in the itinerary (such as optional, added-cost activities); meals and beverages not listed as included; voluntary gratuity for the crew and expedition team; personal expenses such as spa services, boutique purchases, bar, laundry and communications unless specified; mandatory travel insurance and insurance of any kind; visa, reciprocity and passport fees; medical care or emergency evacuation; expedition jacket and rubber muck-style boots outside of available sizes (inquire for more details); life jackets for selected minors (inquire for more details); premium alcohol and any alcohol not mentioned in Inclusions; WiFi from personal devices in excess of the 500 MB provided.
Payment & Cancellation
In order to confirm this trip, a deposit of 20% of the total trip cost is required per person at time of booking. The balance of the trip price is due 120 days before the departure date. Special holiday payment and cancellation terms may apply. Guests who must cancel their trip for any reason must do so in writing. Standard cancellations are subject to the following per-person fees, based on number of days prior to departure:
Up to 181 days – $1,250 cancellation fee
180 to 120 days – 100% of deposit
119 to 0 days – 100% of total trip cost
Terms & Conditions
This trip is subject to AdventureSmith Explorations Terms and Conditions. Please read this information carefully and call us if you have any questions. A Traveler Information Form, which includes a release of liability, must be completed and signed by all travelers. Your Adventure Specialist will send you a unique link to complete this form along with a packing list and extensive pre-departure and travel insurance information upon booking confirmation.
Arrival & Departure
The Greenland: Disko Bay & Beyond cruise begins and ends in Copenhagen, Denmark (CPH), with mandatory charter flights linking travelers to the embark/disembark point of Kangerlussuaq, Greenland. Plan flights to arrive to Copenhagen any time before Day 1 of the itinerary. Transfers in Kangerlussuaq are included. The estimated disembarkation time from the vessel is 8:00am on the last day of the itinerary, followed by a mandatory charter flight to Copenhagen. We recommend booking your return flight from Copenhagen for the day after disembarkation, in case of unintended delays due to weather or sea conditions. If you would like assistance with international flights, please visit our Booking Flights resource page.
Internal Flights
Mandatory round-trip group charter flights between Kangerlussuaq and Copenhagen are part of this trip’s itinerary (see Exclusions for pricing). Detailed information is available approximately 11 months prior to departure. The flight to Kangerlussuaq is expected to depart early on Day 1 of the itinerary. A group transfer from the Kangerlussuaq airport to the ship is part of the package. On the final day of the itinerary, the ship is scheduled to arrive at the pier around 8:00am local time. Disembarkation follows breakfast, with a transfer to the airport for the return charter flight to Copenhagen.
Activities
Various optional activities may be available on your Greenland: Disko Bay & Ilulissat cruise. Per-person prices for the 2026 season: discover kayaking $350; day boat trip to the ice fjord in Ilulissat $135; Ilulissat ice fjord flightseeing $465; Sisimiut backcountry by ATV $240 pre-booked or $250 booked on board. A BBQ and trip to the reindeer glacier in Kangerlussuaq is included, as are photography, citizen science, trekking, the polar plunge and Zodiac cruises. Sisimiut, Ilulissat and Kangerlussuaq activities are operated by local, third parties. For the discover kayaking program, the minimum required age is 14 and all kayakers under 18 must be accompanied by an adult; weight limit is 260 pounds per person. Discover kayaking one-time paddling excursions are available for those who want something less in-depth than the immersive kayaking program; no experience is necessary. Each departure’s discover kayaking excursion may be pre-booked or booked on the ship. Note: Activities are capacity-controlled; book early via your Adventure Specialist to reserve your space. A nonrefundable deposit of 20% of the activity fee is required per person at time of booking.
Room Configuration
Single travelers (18+ only) wishing to book a double-occupancy cabin may do so at 1.7x the per-person listed rate in select cabins upon availability. Solo travelers willing to share can reserve a triple or twin-shared cabin, where you will be matched with a person of the same gender. If the other cabin berth goes unsold, you will be guaranteed the double rate. Aboard Ocean Albatros and Ocean Victory, third person rates are available at 50% reduction of the double occupancy rate, in Junior Suites and Deck 4 Superior Balcony Suites (inquire for pricing).
Families & Children
Children must be at least 12 years of age to participate in an Arctic voyage. However, on a case-by-case basis, children ages 7-11 may be accepted with additional screening prior to booking. Children under 18 years old must room with a responsible adult who is designated as the lead passenger on the booking.
Travel Insurance
Medical insurance and emergency medical evacuation insurance is mandatory for this trip, with a minimum recommended coverage of $150,000 USD per person. This plan must cover personal injury, medical expenses, repatriation expenses, evacuation expenses and pre-existing medical conditions. Trip cancellation insurance is optional but highly recommended. Our partners at Travelex Insurance offer a variety of plans and policies to fit every trip and budget. For best value and coverage for pre-existing medical conditions, consider purchasing a policy at time of booking. Learn more about travel insurance or get a free quote.
Itinerary Notes
Read this itinerary as a guide only; the exact route and program varies according to ice, weather conditions, wildlife encountered and the captain’s discretion. Flexibility is the key to the success of any Arctic expedition.
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The Ocean Albatros accommodates 192 guests and 104 crew members, offering a high level of service and comfort. It’s also Arctic- and Antarctica-maximizing, designed for total comfort and safety in even the roughest seas. And its superior 1A Super ice rating and Polar Class 6 mean it can push through deeper ice and deliver access to ever more remote and elusive areas. On board enjoy spacious rooms, everywhere visibility, and seamless access to Zodiacs, all joining forces to ensure a one-of-a-kind experience that will exceed your highest expectations. Our experts can help compare this ship to her nearly identical sister Ocean Victory.
Ocean Albatros Review
AdventureSmith Explorations’ Ocean Albatros ship review includes a detailed description of the small ship including deck plans and a photo gallery. Our small ship cruise experts have been aboard nearly every first-class vessel in Antarctica and the Arctic. Please read our Ocean Albatros review below then contact our experts to compare the Ocean Albatros with other Antarctica ships and ice-class expedition ships operating Antarctica cruise itineraries and Arctic cruises, including Svalbard cruises and Greenland small ship cruises.
Choose the Ocean Albatros for her superior comfort and modern feel. Beneath the sleek exterior of the Ocean Albatros lies decades of learning and adaptation to the harsh Antarctic environment. Her patented X-BOW offers unprecedented stability and comfort; her many onboard amenities are designed to maximize your Antarctic experience; and her spacious heated mudroom with four exterior doors makes Zodiac boarding quick, safe and effortless.
Design and Sustainability
The Ocean Albatros is powered by two diesel and two electro engines, controlled electronically to optimize speed and fuel efficiency. Compared to traditional expedition ships, this technology allows the ship to reduce its carbon footprint by 50% and by implementing the Green Initiative Program, the ship and guests enjoy the highest standards of both comfort and sustainability.
Onboard Facilities
The Ocean Albatros is designed to keep the polar world front and center, from wake-up to lights out. A variety of observation decks are accessible from multiple indoor spaces. Two hydraulic platforms can be lowered to offer unprecedented near-water-level views–and rare photograph opportunities. Even the two outdoor Jacuzzis provide 360 views of the mesmerizing landscape that surrounds you. Ocean Albatros also offers superior observation decks, for the best views of the polar landscapes.
Aboard the Ocean Albatros, guests can indulge in a variety of activities to enhance their polar expedition. World-class cuisine and live entertainment provide delightful moments, while the observation area offers stunning panoramic views. Enrich your mind in the lecture room or community library, and explore the wonders of science in the citizen science laboratory. Stay active in the fitness center and unwind in the panorama sauna (an amenity not available on sister ship Ocean Victory) or Albatros Polar Spa. Guests can also enjoy the Albatros Ocean Boutique, the infinity pool and the Jacuzzi.
Dining & Bars
The main dining room (Jens Munk Restaurant, Deck 5) offers an elegant yet relaxed atmosphere with options for made-to-order hot and cold dishes, multiple entrée choices and scrumptious desserts. For a more casual experience, the Bistro on Deck 8 ("specialty restaurant") offers everyday favorites from a buffet as well as menu items inspired by dishes being served in the main dining room. For guests on the go, a 24/7 self-serve station at the Deck 5 bar is stocked with quick bites. Several bars and lounges provide a wide selection of beverages, potentially including curated wine lists and tasting menus, alongside cocktails, beers and non-alcoholic drinks.
Activities & Expeditions
Ocean Albatros invites her passengers to take part in the Citizen Science Program, uniquely with a custom-built Citizen Science laboratory. Citizen Science is a way to harness the power of thousands of travelers around the world to observe, record and report on natural phenomena. A variety of activities engage guests in supporting important research projects across major disciplines. For example, the data collected contributes to a better understanding of climate change and how it’s affecting the Antarctic Continent.
Increased storage space aboard Ocean Albatros translates into more adventure equipment aboard, including kayaks, dry suits, neoprene gloves, and camping gear consisting of insulated sleeping bags and pads, sleeping bag liner, dry bags and four-season mountaineering tents or bivy sacks. More activity equipment allows more guests to participate in added-cost activities. This expedition ship provides all guests with excursions in Zodiacs, loaded and unloaded via the stern’s Zodiac launching platform.
Cabins & Ocean Albatros Deck Plan
Every stateroom provides a generous view, and most include private balconies. Your stateroom is serviced daily with a provided turn-down service. Suites will have VIP services. All staterooms feature a sitting area with chairs or sofa and table, a complimentary mini-bar, flat-screen TV, telephone, safe to store your valuables, independent temperature controls, luxury toiletries and a hair dryer. All Suites include wine and fruit on arrival, restocked mini-bar (non-alcoholic), laundry service, and an in-room espresso machine.
The Ocean Victory accommodates 194 guests and 120 crew members, offering an exceptional level of service and comfort. Like her sister ship, Ocean Albatros, she’s polar-maximizing—purpose-built for stability, safety, and smooth sailing in even the roughest seas. Her innovative X-BOW® design ensures a remarkably steady ride across the Drake Passage, while a spacious heated mudroom and four exterior doors make Zodiac operations quick, safe, and effortless. On board, enjoy airy staterooms, everywhere visibility, and seamless connections to the outdoors—all combining to deliver an Antarctic experience that exceeds expectations.
Ocean Victory Review
AdventureSmith Explorations’ Ocean Victory ship review includes a detailed description of the small ship including deck plans and a photo gallery. Our small ship cruise experts have been aboard nearly every first-class vessel in Antarctica and the Arctic. Please read our Ocean Victory review below then contact our experts to compare the Ocean Victory with other Antarctica ships and ice-class expedition ships operating Antarctica cruise itineraries, small ship cruises in Northern Europe, and Arctic cruises including Greenland small ship cruises and Iceland cruises.
Choose the Ocean Victory for her superior comfort and modern feel. With 194 guests and 120 crew, the Ocean Victory offers one of the best guest-to-crew ratios in Antarctica and the Arctic. Beneath the sleek exterior of the Ocean Victory lies decades of learning and adaptation to the harsh Antarctic environment. Her patented X-BOW offers unprecedented stability and comfort; her many onboard amenities are designed to maximize your Antarctic experience; and her spacious heated mudroom with four exterior doors makes Zodiac boarding quick, safe and effortless.
Design and Sustainability
The Ocean Victory is powered by a hybrid propulsion system featuring two diesel and two electric engines, electronically optimized for speed and fuel efficiency. This advanced setup reduces emissions by up to 50% compared to traditional expedition vessels. As part of the Green Initiative Program, Ocean Victory blends innovation and responsibility—delivering high standards of comfort while minimizing her environmental footprint. She represents the future of sustainable exploration in Antarctica and beyond.
Onboard Facilities
Aboard Ocean Victory, the polar wilds are always within view. Expansive observation decks and floor-to-ceiling windows keep the scenery close, while two hydraulic platforms lower to near water level for unforgettable wildlife and photography moments. Between landings, stay active in the fitness center, unwind in the Jacuzzis, explore the Shackleton Lecture Room and Knud Rasmussen Library, or join hands-on research in the Citizen Science Lab. Every space aboard Ocean Victory is designed to keep you connected to the adventure outside.
Dining & Bars
Dining aboard Ocean Victory highlights both variety and quality. The main dining room (the Beagle Restaurant, Deck 5) features diverse menus of hot and cold dishes, multiple entrée selections, and indulgent desserts, all fully plated. On Deck 8, the Bistro ("specialty restaurant" on the deck plan) offers a more casual atmosphere with a mix of always-available buffet items and made-to-order options. Additionally, a convenient grab-and-go station is available at the bar on Deck 5; offering quick bites around the clock. Guests can unwind in several bars and lounges, each offering a curated selection of wines, cocktails, beers, and non-alcoholic beverages.
Activities & Expeditions
Increased storage space aboard Ocean Victory translates into more adventure equipment aboard, including kayaks, dry suits, neoprene gloves, and camping gear The Ocean Victory invites travelers to take part in the Citizen Science Program, engaging directly with ongoing environmental and wildlife research. Through hands-on participation, guests contribute to global understanding of the Antarctic ecosystem and climate change impacts.
Her expanded equipment storage allows more guests to join premium adventures such as kayaking and camping. A dedicated Zodiac loading platform ensures smooth embarkations for daily excursions, so you can spend more time exploring and less time waiting.
Cabins & Ocean Victory Deck Plan
Every stateroom aboard Ocean Victory offers a front-row seat to the polar world. Most feature private balconies, and all are equipped with a sitting area, complimentary mini-bar, flat-screen TV, safe, and luxury toiletries. Suites include thoughtful upgrades such as wine and fruit on arrival, laundry service, a restocked mini-bar, and an in-room espresso machine. Daily housekeeping and turn-down service ensure comfort and care from morning to night. Whether you’re unwinding after a day of exploration or watching the ice drift by, your stateroom provides a warm, inviting retreat.
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Learn About the Small Ships on Your Itinerary
The 2023-built, Ocean Albatros offers refined spaces, a relaxed atmosphere, state-of-the-art technology, and design optimized for smooth and efficient cruising. Come aboard this polar ship for amenities like Jacuzzis and a sauna, plus tenured guides.
Built in 2021, the Ocean Victory is a technologically advanced polar vessel offering refined spaces and a relaxed atmosphere. Designed for smooth, efficient cruising, the ship treats guests to premium amenities including Jacuzzis and a gym, and lectures led by tenured expedition guides.
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