Greenland Explorer Cruise
Come aboard a purpose-built expedition ship for a voyage filled with Norse history, Inuit culture and the Arctic's breathtaking wilderness. On this comprehensive 12-day route, cruise from Reykjavík, tracing the Norse sea route to Greenland, and exploring the east, south and west. A special 13-day eclipse itinerary adds a day positioning in the path of Totality.
Come aboard a purpose-built expedition ship for a voyage filled with Norse history, Inuit culture and the Arctic’s breathtaking wilderness. On this comprehensive 12-day route, cruise from Reykjavík, tracing the Norse sea route to Greenland, and exploring the east, south and west.
Begin on the rugged east coast, where you’ll experience Tunumiit culture in Tasiilaq and Kuummiut, explore haunting military history at Ikateq, and admire the icy majesty of Sermilikfjord. From there, sail southwards into Skjoldungen Fjord’s perfect stillness, navigate glacier-lined Prins Kristiansund, and venture into the green valleys of South Greenland. Visit Brattahlíð at Qassiarsuk, the first European settlement in the Americas, and trek to Igaliku, once the seat of Greenland’s bishops. Continuing north, explore Nuuk, where traditional houses stand beside glass towers and seal hunts meet smartphones. Passing Kangaamiut, steeped in Greenlandic tradition, you’ll end with the soaring cliffs and glaciers of Eternity Fjord.
A number of trip highlights will keep you engaged as you cruise from east to west. Experience Tunumiit culture and history in Tasiilaq. Soak in pristine Arctic nature in Skjoldungen. Walk in the footsteps of the Vikings in verdant South Greenland. Discover wartime heritage at Ikateq Airbase. And discover Nuuk, Greenland’s colorful capital.
In 2026, a special 13-day Total Eclipse & Greenland itinerary offers the chance to experience nature’s most dazzling phenomenon in one of the world’s most awe-inspiring destinations. This departure follows a similar itinerary but makes its first stop in Greeland farther north, to position in the path of the total eclipse. Learn more about solar eclipse cruises & tours.
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 Explorer Itinerary
The Greenland Explorer route cruises from Reykjavik, Iceland to Kangerlussuaq, Greenland, ending with a mandatory charter flight to Copenhagen, Denmark. This comprehensive Greenland cruise features Inuit communities, pristine arctic nature, and both Viking and WWII history.
Hallgrímskirkja Church towers over Reykjavik, a vibrant city known for Nordic cuisine, unique museums and lively shopping. After safety briefings, set sail towards East Greenland.
The Denmark Strait, a narrow passage between Iceland and Greenland, teems with rich marine life. Join your expedition team on the outer decks to watch for wildlife. Nearing Greenland, the team shares insights on ecology, geology and wildlife, as well as briefings preparing guests for Zodiac operations and polar bear safety in the wilderness of Greenland.
Tasiilaq is East Greenland’s largest settlement, sitting on rugged Ammassalik Island. Isolated from European contact until its founding as a trading post in 1894, it preserves the unique culture of the Tunumiit people. Once home to Greenland’s last shamans, Tasiilaq is the origin of the tupilak, a feared magical creature–now a celebrated art form. Visitors can meet sled dogs (with owners’ permission), experience drum dancing, hike tundra meadows and visit the famous Stunk Artist’s Workshop.
During the morning, approach Ikateq, also known as Bluie Two East–a haunting remnant of the American military presence on Greenland during the Second World War. Marvel at the remains of this vital airbase, untouched since it was abandoned in 1947. In the afternoon, the ship repositions to Kuummiit–a small village deep in the calm waters of Ammassalik Fjord. Here you will have a chance to connect with the friendly locals and experience East Greenlandic culture in one of country’s most beautiful and welcoming villages.
The next stop is the breathtaking Sermilikfjord–a vast ice-choked fjord which drains the colossal Helheim Glacier. Armadas of vast icebergs drift from the Greenland Ice Sheet out into the North Atlantic, creating one of the most spectacular natural sights on Earth. Join your expedition team on a Zodiac cruise and marvel at the gigantic icebergs, natural ice sculptures tens of thousands of years in the making!
Today, explore Skjoldungen, a stunning fjord on Greenland’s southeast coast, known to locals as Saqqisikuik. Once visited by Inuit and briefly settled in the 20th century, it is now remote and uninhabited. Surrounded by breathtaking peaks, highlights include Thryms Glacier and the valley of Dronning Marie Dal. Weather permitting, land to explore or cruise by the glacier.
In the morning, sail through spectacular Prins Christian Sund, a 37-mile (60km) iceberg-filled strait linking East and West Greenland. Surrounded by mountains, glaciers and valleys, it’s one of the world’s most spectacular waterways. By afternoon, reach Aappilattoq, a small, remote village beneath granite cliffs, known for its traditional lifestyle, scenic hiking and famous local choir.
Next, cruise through Tunulliarfik Fjord to Qassiarsuk, a lush village known for sheep farming and its rich Norse history. Founded in 1924, the modern village sits on the site of Erik the Red’s 10th-century farm, Brattahlíð. Legend has it that his wife Thjodhild refused to join her pagan husband’s bed until he built her a church–the first in the Americas. In the afternoon, hike from nearby Itilleq to Igaliku and the ruins of Garðar, the seat of Norse Greenlandic power.
From South Greenland, sail north along the rugged coast. Nearly all of Greenland’s settlements lie on the western coast, facing the Davis Strait. Warm Atlantic currents enrich these waters, attracting whales, seals, human hunters and many seabirds—so keep an eye out during your day at sea!
Home to 20,000 residents, Nuuk, Greenland’s capital, offers culture, history and stunning natural beauty. Inhabited since 2200 B.C. by Paleo-Inuit and later by Norse settlers, Nuuk is now Greenland’s cultural and political center, featuring the Parliament, National Museum (home of the Qilakitsoq mummies), Katuaq cultural center, local art shops and cozy cafés. Affectionately known as “Nuuk York” by locals, it stands as a singular blend of the ancient and the contemporary.
On the final full day of your voyage, arrive in Kangaamiut, a village where traditional hunting, fishing and weather shape daily life. Guests can hike for panoramic views and enjoy a warm cultural welcome with local crafts, food and performance. In the afternoon, venture into Evighedsfjorden—“The Eternity Fjord”—by Zodiac, cruising past majestic glaciers and dramatic bird cliffs, a thrilling and unforgettable finale to your Arctic voyage.
As your journey concludes, sail up the 99 miles (160km) Kangerlussuaq Fjord and disembark by Zodiac. Though Kangerlussuaq is more known for its Cold War-era military roots and role as a transport hub than cultural heritage, its surrounding wilderness offers striking natural beauty–the perfect place to end your thrilling expedition.
Included
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; in 2026, complimentary house wine, beer and soft drinks at dinner (selected labels and brands), or in 2027 and beyond, 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 one-way transfer package ($650 in 2026 & 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 Explorer cruise begins in Reykjavik, Iceland (KEF) and ends in Copenhagen, Denmark (CPH) followed by a mandatory one-way charter flight linking travelers from the disembark point of Kangerlussuaq, Greenland. Plan flights to arrive to Reykjavik by 10:00am on Day 1 of the itinerary, ahead of the estimated 2:00-4:00pm embarkation. An arrival transfer is not 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
After disembarkation, a mandatory group charter flight from Kangerlussuaq to Copenhagen is part of this trip’s itinerary (see Exclusions for pricing). Detailed information is available approximately 11 months prior to departure. 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 charter flight to Copenhagen.
Activities
Various optional activities may be available on your Greenland Explorer cruise. Per-person prices for the 2026 & 2027 season: discover kayaking $350; photography, citizen science, trekking, the polar plunge and Zodiac cruises included. 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.
Total Eclipse & Greenland Itinerary
The Total Eclipse & Greenland route cruises from Reykjavik, Iceland to Kangerlussuaq, Greenland, ending with a mandatory charter flight to Copenhagen, Denmark. This comprehensive Greenland cruise features a similar route as the main itinerary, with a few unique visits, including positioning in the path of the total solar eclipse, Uunartoq Island’s geothermal springs and more.
Hallgrímskirkja Church towers over Reykjavik, a vibrant city known for Nordic cuisine, unique museums and lively shopping. After safety briefings, set sail towards East Greenland.
The Denmark Strait, a narrow passage between Iceland and Greenland, teems with rich marine life. Join your expedition team on the outer decks to watch for wildlife. Nearing Greenland, the team shares insights on ecology, geology and wildlife, as well as briefings preparing guests for Zodiac operations and polar bear safety.
On Eclipse Day, the ship approaches the once-feared Blosseville Coast. Anchoring at the perfect vantage points beneath the eclipse’s center line with clear southwestern views, guests disembark by Zodiac to prepare for the celestial show. At 16:37, the partial eclipse begins, building to totality at 17:37, with darkness settling over the landscape. Witness the stunning “Diamond Ring” effect at 17:40 as totality ends. The eclipse concludes by 18:33 as the moon’s shadow moves on. After this unforgettable spectacle, return to the ship for a gala dinner.
Sail south along Greenland’s Blosseville Coast, a rugged landscape shaped by volcanic activity around 50 million years ago. First surveyed by explorer Ejnar Mikkelsen, this area has long been navigated by the Inuit. If conditions allow, land in this now uninhabited region of breathtaking beauty.
Tasiilaq is East Greenland’s largest settlement, sitting on rugged Ammassalik Island. Isolated from European contact until its founding as a trading post in 1894, it preserves the unique culture of the Tunumiit people. Once home to Greenland’s last shamans, Tasiilaq is the origin of the tupilak, a feared magical creature-now a celebrated art form. Visitors can meet sled dogs (with owners’ permission), experience drum dancing, hike tundra meadows and visit the Stunk Artist’s Workshop.
Today, explore Skjoldungen, a stunning fjord on Greenland’s southeast coast, known to locals as Saqqisikuik. Once visited by Inuit and briefly settled in the 20th century, it is now remote and uninhabited. Surrounded by breathtaking peaks, highlights include Thryms Glacier and the valley of Dronning Marie Dal. Weather permitting, land to explore or cruise by the glacier.
In the morning, sail through spectacular Prins Christian Sund, a 37-mile (60km) iceberg-filled strait linking East and West Greenland. Surrounded by mountains, glaciers and valleys, it’s one of the world’s most spectacular waterways. By afternoon, reach Aappilattoq, a small, remote village beneath granite cliffs, known for its traditional lifestyle, scenic hiking and famous local choir.
Tasermiut Fjord is known for its towering granite cliffs and fertile valleys. Once called Ketil’s Fjord by Norse settlers, it’s now popular with elite climbers and hikers. Sail to Uunartoq Island to relax in geothermal springs with views of drifting icebergs–an experience unmatched even by Iceland’s legendary spas!
Next, cruise through Tunulliarfik Fjord to Qassiarsuk, a lush village known for sheep farming and its rich Norse history. Founded in 1924, the modern village sits on the site of Erik the Red’s 10th-century farm, Brattahlíð. Legend has it that his wife Thjodhild refused to join her pagan husband’s bed until he built her a church–the first in the Americas. In the afternoon, hike from nearby Itilleq to Igaliku and the ruins of Garðar, the seat of Norse Greenlandic power.
From South Greenland, sail north along the rugged coast. Nearly all of Greenland’s settlements lie on the western coast, facing the Davis Strait. Warm Atlantic currents enrich these waters, attracting whales, seals, human hunters and many seabirds—so keep an eye out during your day at sea!
Home to 20,000 residents, Nuuk, Greenland’s capital, offers culture, history and stunning natural beauty. Inhabited since 2200 B.C. by Paleo-Inuit and later by Norse settlers, Nuuk is now Greenland’s cultural and political center, featuring the Parliament, National Museum (home of the Qilakitsoq mummies), Katuaq cultural center, local art shops and cozy cafés. Affectionately known as “Nuuk York” by locals, it stands as a singular blend of the ancient and the contemporary.
On the final full day of your voyage, arrive in Kangaamiut, a village where traditional hunting, fishing and weather shape daily life. Guests can hike for panoramic views and enjoy a warm cultural welcome with local crafts, food and performance. In the afternoon, venture into Evighedsfjorden—“The Eternity Fjord”—by Zodiac, cruising past majestic glaciers and dramatic bird cliffs, a thrilling and unforgettable finale to your Arctic voyage.
As your journey concludes, sail up the 99 miles (160km) Kangerlussuaq Fjord and disembark by Zodiac. Though Kangerlussuaq is more known for its Cold War-era military roots and role as a transport hub than cultural heritage, its surrounding wilderness offers striking natural beauty–the perfect place to end your thrilling expedition.
Included
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 one-way transfer charter flight package ($650 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 Total Eclipse & Greenland cruise begins in Reykjavik, Iceland (KEF) and ends in Copenhagen, Denmark (CPH) followed by a mandatory one-way charter flight linking travelers from the disembark point of Kangerlussuaq, Greenland. Plan flights to arrive to Reykjavik by 10:00am on Day 1 of the itinerary, ahead of the estimated 2:00-4:00pm embarkation. An arrival transfer is not 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
After disembarkation, a mandatory group charter flight from Kangerlussuaq to Copenhagen (with stopover at Keflavik Airport in Reykjavik, Iceland) is part of this trip’s itinerary (see Exclusions for pricing). Detailed information is available approximately 11 months prior to departure. 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 charter flight to Copenhagen.
Activities
Various optional activities may be available on your Total Eclipse & Greenland cruise. Per-person prices for the 2026 season: discover kayaking $350; photography, citizen science, trekking, the polar plunge and Zodiac cruises included. 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.
Current Deals on This Trip
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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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