Europe - Albatros Cruises

Day 1

Aberdeen - Embarkation
Our journey begins in Aberdeen, Scotland's famous Granite City. The city of Aberdeen is one of the wealthiest in the UK with a long and illustrious history. The modern city grew out of a rich fishing and shipbuilding tradition, and has since become the UK's main port serving the oil and gas industry. The glittering granite buildings for which the city is nicknamed demonstrate the prestige and power of northern Scotland's economic hub. MV Ocean Albatros awaits embarkation in the city's bustling harbour, with comfortable staterooms ready to welcome our guests. After our mandatory safety briefings and lifeboat drill, Ocean Albatros will sail out of Aberdeen and chart a course for the ancient Isles of Orkney.

Day 2

Kirkwall, Orkney
During the night we will sail along the northeast coast of Scotland to arrive at the town of Kirkwall capital of windy Orkney off the mainland of Scotland. Orkney is old Norse for the "seal islands", and like many other North Atlantic islands, Orkney has a rich Viking story. Orkney has a fascinating history, and contains one of the highest concentrations of Neolithic remains anywhere in the world, preserved in the islands' softly blowing sands. These sites range from the dramatic stone circle of Brodgar to the touchingly intimate Neolithic houses of Skara Brae, preserved so perfectly they could almost still be inhabited. Unlike the Scottish mainland, Orkney and nearby Shetland were colonised by Norse settlers, and were a part of the Kingdom of Norway until the late 1400s; the islands' language, culture and architecture is subsequently distinct to the rest of Scotland. Locals are proud of their Nordic heritage, which is evident almost everywhere you go in the city, from the magnificent St Magnus' Cathedral (the founding of which is detailed in bloody sagas; it is also one of the only churches in the world to have its own dungeon), to street names, to the world-renowned Highland Park distillery. More recently, the islands were of huge military importance to the British state, and an entire German fleet lies scuttled at the bottom of Scapa Flow, just outside the city. The barricades between several of the islands were constructed after a daring U-Boat raid in the Second World War. Along with the magnificent Italian Chapel (built by Italian prisoners of war), the barricades bear testament to the islands' complex military history. Today, the islands have again reinvented themselves; visitors are warmly welcomed, and the bustling port is littered with equipment and parts devoted to tidal and wind power as Orkney seeks to capitalise on its abundant green energy. Optional excursion: “Highlights of Orkney”: We depart Kirkwall and head to the west of Mainland, Orkney’s largest island. Along the way we will pass through gentle rolling landscapes into the Neolithic Heartland of Orkney, an area designated as a World Heritage Site due to its wealth of pre-historic archaeological sites. Passing the Standing Stones of Stenness, we will stop at the 5000-year-old ceremonial circle: the Ring of Brodgar. We continue to the pretty fishing village of Stromness. After a briefing and orientation, enjoy free time to explore the picturesque harbour and stroll along the quirky flag-stoned streets. Maybe visit the beautifully refurbished Pier Arts Centre with exhibitions by both local and international artists and relax with a hot beverage in a café or explore the craft shops selling local knitwear, pottery and art work. Finally we return to the coach and continue our circular route following the coastline of Scapa Flow, the famous British Naval Base used in both World Wars. (The excursion is part of the optional excursion package and not included in the price of the trip). For guests wishing to stay in Kirkwall, a short walking city tour will be arranged, passing by St. Magnus Cathedral as well as the picturesque ruins of the Bishop's and Earl's Palaces.

Day 3

Lerwick and the Isle of Noss, Shetland
On the morning of the third day of our voyage, Ocean Albatros will arrive at Lerwick on the Mainland of Shetland. The Shetland Islands consist of over a hundred islands, of which only sixteen are inhabited year-round. The islands form the northernmost part of the United Kingdom, located approximately 300 km north of the Scottish mainland. Like Orkney, the heritage of Shetland dates back to the Neolithic period, and Shetland was part of the Kingdom of Norway until the late 1400s; the Norn language, derived directly from Old Norse was spoken on the islands until the 1850s, peppering the placenames and slang of Shetland with Viking heritage. Norse connections are strong here, from the Shetland flag to the Up Helly Aa Fire Festival, held every year in midwinter. Modern Lerwick is a prosperous, bustling town, which thrives on the oil, gas and green energy industries, and increasingly on tourism. Enjoy a stroll through the town's busy high street, lined with independent shops selling local products, immerse yourself in history at the Shetland Museum and Archives, or watch the local ferries come and go from the busy harbourfront. Optional excursion: "Clickimin Broch and Shetland sightseeing": Once securely docked at the port, we depart on a short scenic drive through Lerwick towards Scalloway. From the elevated position we can enjoy the view of the charming village and the imposing Scalloway Castle. After a short photo stop, we continue eastwards through the area that is locally known as the “Black Gates” – an area where peat is still cut and used as fuel. Following the road northwards, our main destination of Clickimin Broch is only a short drive. There will be free time to discover this well preserved and restored Broch and learn more about life in the Iron Age. (Please note: The coach excursion is part of the optional excursion package and is not included in the price of the voyage). Afterwards, we will return to Lerwick and after some time at leisure in the port town, we reboard around lunchtime. During a delicious lunch onboard, our vessel repositions the short distance to the nearby Isle of Noss. Depending on the weather, we hope to be able to offer a Zodiac cruise beneath the bird cliff, one of the largest and most spectacular in Britain, thronging with gannets, guillemots and razorbills.

Day 4

Tórshavn, Faroe Islands
We arrive after lunch at Tórshavn, one of the smallest capitals in the world, ruling the scattered eighteen islands that make up the Faroes. An autonomous country within the Kingdom of Denmark, the Faroe Islands are situated roughly equidistant from Norway, Iceland and Scotland. 'Føroyar' (as the islands are locally known) is a corruption of the Old Norse roughly meaning 'Sheep Islands', hinting at the island's long sheep farming tradition and Norse roots. The local Faroese language is closely related to Icelandic and Old Norse, and indeed to the Norn language once spoken in Shetland and Orkney (with which the Faroes share ancient historical ties). While not as cold as nearby Iceland, the Faroe Islands are nonetheless known for their challenging weather, largely due to their isolated location in the North Atlantic - here, the frigid sea rules life, and experiencing four seasons in the same day (or even hour!) is not uncommon. Nonetheless, their northerly location creates long light summer days, and while the weather is rarely warm, the climate is perfect for exploring! Centred around the grass-roofed Parliament on Tinganes (one of the oldest in the world), Tórshavn - or simply 'Havn' as the locals call it - has a fascinating history. Originally a trading post established by Norwegian kings and operated as a monopoly by the Danish crown, Tórshavn was proclaimed a town in 1866 and has been the capital of the islands ever since. In the aftermath of British occupation during the Second World War, a narrowly contested referendum almost resulted in Faroese independence, after which the islands were granted autonomy. Today, the Faroes operates as its own nation, excluding foreign affairs, defence and policing (which are handled by Denmark), and is a modern bustling city in miniature. Explore Skansin, the 16th century fort which found a modern use as the British garrison during WWII, experience Faroese culture at the Listasvn Føroya Art Museum, or shop for snuggly woollen goods in the city's many boutique shops. Explore the old Faroes in the city Cathedral, or the new Foroes in the architectural marvel of the Nordic House cultural centre. Alternately, unwind on a sunny terrace on Bryggjubakki (the waterfront area modelled on Copenhagen's famous Nyhavn) and indulge in a fresh local seafood lunch with a view of Tinganes- perhaps with a crisp local beer to match! Optional excursion: Historical Kirkjubøur By mid-morning you can participate in an optional bus excursion where we will try to look in history. We drive out of the capital and over the mountains to the south. As the climate on the Faroe Islands is ‘stably unstable’ it is not unlikely that we will drive through the cloud base and experience some fog on the way - though as the local saying goes: "don't like the weather? Wait ten minutes!" We soon arrive in Kirkjubøur, which was in medieval times the Episcopal capital of the Faroe Islands, and its undisputed cultural centre. We visit the ruins of the impressive Magnus Cathedral, and the St. Olav church – the only remaining medieval church on the Faroe Islands. (The excursion is part of the excursion package and is not included in the price of the trip). Upon our return to ‘Havn’ – as Tórshavn is often just called – you can go for a leisurely stroll through the old citadel near the harbour. A visit to the Art museum and the Nordic House is also very recommendable. With around 18,000 inhabitants it is the island nations largest. Torshavn is a wonderful mix of modern metropole and thousand year old traditions. The vast history is particularly visible in the old quarters of Tinganes, with its beautiful buildings with grass covered roofs and cobbled streets.

Day 5

Klaksvík, Faroe Islands. Optional excursion: Explore Eysturoy with Gjogv
During the morning we will arrive in the little port of Klaksvík on the island of Borðoy, located on the eastern side of this island nation. The town is the second largest in the Faroes with around 5,000 residents, with history dating back to Viking times. The town occupies the isthmus between two deep fjords, offering access to the sea on two sides - vital for the fishing industry which is still the basis of the town's economy. Klaksik functions as the main hub for the northeastern part of the Faroe Islands, and as such offers a variety of services usually found in much larger towns. Subsea tunnels built into the basalt bedrock of the islands link Klaksvík to Esturoy and Stremoy (Tórshavn) opened in 2006, enhancing the town's economy and infrastructure hugely, allowing much easier export of catches. The town is particularly proud of its footballers - Klaksvík Football Club have defeated a number of much larger and better known European teams, and reached the third qualifying round of the Champions League - the first Faroese team to do so. Optional excursion: Explore Eysturoy with Gjogv Join an optional bus excursion where we explore the nearby island of Eysturoy with its wonderful nature, high peaks and wildlife. We depart by coach through a tunnel that connects Borðoy and Eysturoy and pass along the long Skalafjord. This leads us to the small harbour village of Gjogv, where we explore the area and maybe even walk the gorge that has given the village its name. We will have time to take some photos of some of the famous rock formations, cliffs and breathtaking views visible along our way. This roundtrip offers some insights of the Faroese lifestyle and the truly spectacular natural beauty that the islands hold. An excursion that lets us test the famous tagline for the country: Unspoiled, Unexplored, Unbelievable. (The excursion is part of the excursion package and not included in the price of the trip). Around lunchtime we leave Klaksvík and continue on our North Sea adventure towards Iceland.

Day 6

At sea, en route to Djúpivogur, Iceland
From Klaksvík, Ocean Albatros will head out across the North Atlantic towards eastern Iceland, following the course set by Norse explorers over a thousand years ago. Scholars still debate the origin of the first settlers of the Faroe Islands; whether the settlers were of Scandinavian or Norse-Irish origin, and whether they were preceded by Celtic settlers from Scotland and Ireland. What is certain is the islands were largely settled by around the year 800, after which Norse pioneers discovered and began to settle in Iceland. Between the Faroe Islands and Iceland lies a submarine ridge, formed during the opening of the North Atlantic Ocean approximately 50 million years ago. This ridge causes the warmer Norwegian Current (a branch of the Gulf Stream) to rise towards the surface, enriching these chilly waters. Seabirds, seals and whales thrive in these nutritious waters, so keeping binoculars close at hand is highly recommended! Days at sea are never dull. We will arrange a variety of activities onboard for our guests to enjoy to engage the mind, body and soul. Join your knowledgeable Expedition Team lecturers in the Theatre to hear specially-crafted lectures on local history, wildlife, geology, culture and more, unwind with a massage in the Albatros Polar Spa, or simply watch the seabirds gliding along the ship from our hot tubs as the Ocean Albatros flies across the North Atlantic towards Iceland.

Day 7

Djúpivogur, Iceland
Our first port of call in Iceland is the small, cozy port town of Djúpivogur. Located in East Iceland at the mouth of Berufjörður fjord, Djúpivogur is an enchanting village of just 456 inhabitants, standing beneath the dramatic Mount Búlandstindur, which reaches 1,069 m (3,510ft). Characterized by its calm lagoons, tranquil harbour, and flourishing bird population, particularly in the Búlandsnes Bird Sanctuary, the area allows visitors to enjoy an undisturbed natural paradise. The town's harbour is perfectly is sheltered but still easily accessible from the ocean, and among the oldest in Iceland due to its Europe-facing position, with records dating back to 1589. The people of Djúpivogur take great pride in preserving their town's heritage, and the town attracts creative folk and artists from around the world. The public art exhibitions of the town worth a visit, not least the permanent Eggin í Gleðivík, 34 oversized granite bird eggs representing the 34 species which breed in the area. The artwork can be reached with a short stroll from the town centre. The Cultural Centre is located in the beautiful red timber house, Langabúð, and opposite this on the other side of the small harbor is the beautiful old Hótel Framtíð. Residents have embraced a slower way of life which we can hope to soak up whilst visiting. Optional excursion: Vatnajökull, the largest icecap in Europe We board coaches in Djupivogur and drive to the "lobster town" of Höfn where we make a short break after the first 60 minutes of driving. Our next stop is the breathtaking Hoffelslón lagoon at the outlet of the largest glacier in Europe (Vatnajökull), where we will take time to walk on the glacial moraine and enjoy the unique nature and spectacular scenery. The vast Vatnajökull glacier covers around 8% of Iceland's total land mass. After the visit we return towards Djupivogur, with some photo stops enroute. (The excursion is part of the excursion package and is not included in the price of the trip). After we embark our ship, we will sail along the southern coast of Iceland towards the Vestmannaeyjar archipelago.

Day 8

Heimaey and Surtsey, Vestmannaeyjar Archipelago, Iceland
The Vestmannaeyjar Archipelago (Anglicised as the Westman Islands) is a cluster of isolated islands situated off Iceland's southern coast. These rugged outposts have a surprisingly turbulent history, being the site of thrall rebellions during the Viking age, and the site of Ottoman slave raids in the 1600s. But the modern history of the town of Heimaey (the only settlement of any size on the islands) is what really puts the islands on the map. Heimaey made headlines worldwide in January 1973, when a volcano erupted on the island. Almost all of the 5,000 inhabitants evacuated, but some opted to stay, and armed with little more than hoses managed to cool and divert the worst of the lava away from the town and it's vitally important harbour. Today, the cone-shaped hill of Eldfell (source of the 1973 eruption) looms over the town, a testament to the raw power of Icelandic nature. Heimaey is one of the few places where visitors can walk on a recent volcano, as well as on the extensive lavafield it left behind. Instead of forgetting or destroying the ruins left by the eruption, the enterprising islanders built a museum around them: the Eldheimar museum is one of the most fascinating in Iceland, showing in perfect detail the destruction even a comparatively tiny volcano can wreak. While the lava-battling locals are known worldwide, many visitors come to see the island's other local residents; the millions of seabirds which nest on this isolated outpost. Approximately 1.1 million puffins nest in burrows in the turf and sandy soil of the island, while kittiwakes, fulmars, guillemots and razorbills also number in their thousands. Once a vital food source, locals are now fiercely protective of their feathered friends; local children even arrange patrols to collect and safely care of young birds which become disorientated at night, releasing them the following morning. When you go sailing, you can see the islands' steep and grateful profiles in clear weather from a long distance. They are beautifully raised by the sea, and looking at them, one understands why an Icelandic poet would compare them with the sapphires in a silver ring. We end the day by passing close to one of the world's newest islands, Surtsey. This volcanic island is named for a fire giant of Norse legend, and rose from the sea in 1963 during a submarine eruption. In 2008, Surtsey was inscribed on UNESCO's list of Natural World Heritage Sites. The island is closed to the public and only researchers are allowed - it is a vital means for scientists to understand how nature colonises newly formed islands - although the views of the island from the sea are spectacular.

Day 9

Reykjavík, Iceland
The rock-like columns of Hallgrímskirkja Church loom over the city of Reykjavik, a hip Scandinavian capital which needs little introduction. With new Nordic cuisine, excellent shopping, fantastic excursions and an easy relaxed vibe, Reykjavik is one of Scandinavia's most welcoming and exciting cities. Such a bustling capital may feel strange after the remote wilderness of the North Atlantic! After a hearty breakfast, it is time to bid a fond farewell to the Crew and Expedition Team of Ocean Albatros, and descend the gangway back to dry land with memories of the voyage of a lifetime.

Day 1

Aberdeen, Scotland - Embarkation
Our journey begins in Aberdeen, Scotland's famous Granite City. The city of Aberdeen is one of the wealthiest in the UK with a long and illustrious history. The modern city grew out of a rich fishing and shipbuilding tradition, and has since become the UK's main port serving the oil and gas industry. The glittering granite buildings for which the city is nicknamed demonstrate the prestige and power of northern Scotland's economic hub. MV Ocean Albatros awaits embarkation in the city's bustling harbour, with comfortable staterooms ready to welcome our guests. After our mandatory safety briefings and lifeboat drill, Ocean Albatros will sail out of Aberdeen and chart a course for the ancient Isles of Orkney.

Day 2

Lerwick, Shetland, Scotland
Lerwick, Shetland, Scotland On the morning of the second day of our voyage, Ocean Albatros will arrive at Lerwick on the Mainland of Shetland. The Shetland Islands consist of over a hundred islands, of which only sixteen are inhabited year-round. The islands form the northernmost part of the United Kingdom, located approximately 300 km north of the Scottish mainland. The history of Shetland dates back to the Neolithic period, and Shetland was part of the Kingdom of Norway until the late 1400s; the Norn language, derived directly from Old Norse was spoken on the islands until the 1850s, peppering the placenames and slang of Shetland with Viking heritage. Norse connections are strong here, from the Shetland flag to the Up Helly Aa Fire Festival, held every year in midwinter. Modern Lerwick is a prosperous, bustling town, which thrives on the oil, gas and green energy industries, and increasingly on tourism. Enjoy a stroll through the town's busy high street, lined with independent shops selling local products, immerse yourself in history at the Shetland Museum and Archives, or watch the local ferries come and go from the busy harbourfront. An optional coach excursion exploring the highlights of Shetland is offered this day.

Day 3

Vagur, Faroe Islands
Vagur is a small village situated on the windy island of Suðuroy, the southernmost of the Faroe Islands. Being one of the largest and more isolated islands in the archipelago, Suðuroy locals are known for their distinctive language dialect, history, and practical no-nonsense attitude. The village is typically Faroese, with colourful clapboard houses clustered around the village harbour, which sits at the end of a sheltered fjord backed by sweeping layered basalt mountains. The village of Vágur is first referenced in Norse litarature in 1350, when it was mentioned that several dogs and their owners lived in the area. The village has been a hub for the Faroese fishin industry since, and was the site where Nólsoyar Pall constructed the first Faroese ship in centuries, challenging the long-standing Danish trade monopoly. Vagur sits amid some of the Faroe Islands most spectacular nature, offering a multitude of opportunities to see these islands' wild side. The large lake Vatnið sits on the edge of the village, and is an excellent spot to see the islands' native bird life - with further oppotunities to birdwatch and learn about the island's fishing history at the nearby coastline of Vagseidid. A huge number of hiking trails begin in Vágur, including the spectacular trail to Eggjarnar which overlooks the dramatic cliffs of the west coast of Suouroy, exposed to the raw fury of the North Atlantic. The town also hosts several excellent museums, including the works of local painter Ruth Smith.

Day 4

Torshavn, Faroe Islands
DAY 4 Torhsavn, Faroe Islands We arrive in the early morning at Tórshavn, one of the smallest capitals in the world, ruling the scattered eighteen islands that make up the Faroes. An autonomous country within the Kingdom of Denmark, the Faroe Islands are situated roughly equidistant from Norway, Iceland and Scotland. 'Føroyar' (as the islands are locally known) is a corruption of the Old Norse roughly meaning 'Sheep Islands', hinting at the island's long sheep farming tradition and Norse roots. The local Faroese language is closely related to Icelandic and Old Norse, and indeed to the Norn language once spoken in Shetland and Orkney (with which the Faroes share ancient historical ties). While not as cold as nearby Iceland, the Faroe Islands are nonetheless known for their challenging weather, largely due to their isolated location in the North Atlantic - here, the frigid sea rules life, and experiencing four seasons in the same day (or even hour!) is not uncommon. Nonetheless, their northerly location creates long light summer days, and while the weather is rarely warm, the climate is perfect for exploring! Centred around the grass-roofed Parliament on Tinganes (one of the oldest in the world), Tórshavn - or simply 'Havn' as the locals call it - has a fascinating history. Originally a trading post established by Norwegian kings and operated as a monopoly by the Danish crown, Tórshavn was proclaimed a town in 1866 and has been the capital of the islands ever since. In the aftermath of British occupation during the Second World War, a narrowly contested referendum almost resulted in Faroese independence, after which the islands were granted autonomy. Today, the Faroes operates as its own nation, excluding foreign affairs, defence and policing (which are handled by Denmark), and Tórshavn is a modern bustling city in miniature. Explore Skansin, the 16th century fort which found a modern use as the British garrison during WWII, experience Faroese culture at the Listasvn Føroya Art Museum, or shop for snuggly woollen goods in the city's many boutique shops. Explore the old Faroes in the city Cathedral, or the new Foroes in the architectural marvel of the Nordic House cultural centre. Alternately, unwind on a sunny terrace on Bryggjubakki (the waterfront area modelled on Copenhagen's famous Nyhavn) and indulge in a fresh local seafood lunch with a view of Tinganes- perhaps with a crisp local beer to match! An optional coach excursion exploring the highlights of the Faroe Islands is offered this day.

Day 5

At Sea, ENnRoute To Jan Mayen
Leaving the Faroe Islands behind, Ocean Albatros will spend a day at sea en route to Jan Mayen, an isolated volcanic island roughly equidistant between Greenland, Svalbard and Iceland. Here, warmer water from the Atlantic meets the cold waters of East Greenland, often producing murky foggy conditions. However, the mixing of currents produces rich waters which nourish the wildlife of the area - from the vast shoals of herring so important to towns like Tórshavn, to the whales which grow more common as we approach the shores of Jan Mayen. Days at sea are never dull. We will arrange a variety of activities onboard for our guests to enjoy to engage the mind, body and soul. Join your knowledgeable Expedition Team lecturers in the Theatre to hear specially-crafted lectures on local history, wildlife, geology, culture and more, unwind with a massage in the Albatros Polar Spa, or simply watch the seabirds gliding along the ship from our hot tubs as the Ocean Albatros flies across the Arctic Circle into parts unknown.

Day 6

Jan Mayen
The active volcanic island of Jan Mayen lies approximately mid-way between Svalbard, Greenland and Iceland. If not exactly in the middle of the Greenland Sea, it is located precisely on the Mid Atlantic Ridge, the reason for its volcanic existence. This enigmatic and isolated island is the only active volcano in Norway, and the northernmost active volcano in the world - although the almost perpetual clouds and fog hovering over the summit can make it hard to spot! The volcanic peak of Mt. Beerenberg reaches 2,277m altitude - making it one of Norway's 300 summits exceeding 2000m. The island is inhabited by only 18 persons, a mixture of scientists running the meteorological station and Norwegian Military personnel. Subject to strong winds and large swell, landing on this incredibly remote island can be challenging; we will try to go ashore at the narrowest part of the island, from either south or north, depending on the prevailing wind and surf. The volcanic origin of Jan Mayen is visible all over with cinder cones, lava flows and the Mount Fuji-like appearance of Beerenberg looming above. On the bare rock of the shores, creeping tundra plants and squabbling seabirds eek out a living in the extreme polar environment of the island.

Day 7,8

At Sea, En Route To Svalbard
From Jan Mayen, we set a northeasterly course, aiming for the high Arctic islands of Svalbard. Situated approximately 800km north of the Norwegian mainland, Svalbard is extremely remote and isolated; Longyearbyen, the islands' "capital" lies only 1200km from the North Pole, 800km closer than Oslo. Sailing to Svalbard requires a ship capable of handling any ice or rough weather which may be encountered in these northerly seas. To the west of Jan Mayen lies the West Ice, a vast expanse of floating sea ice which hugs the coast of East Greenland, occasionally drifting across the Greenland Sea to Svalbard even in summer. Luckily, Ocean Albatros boasts Polar Code 6 and Ice Class 1A ratings, making her ideal for all but the thickest Arctic ice. The unique X-Bow design of the hull also offers enhanced stability in rough seas. Keep your binoculars close at hand as we approach Svalbard. These islands are a haven for wildlife; as we migrate northwards, so do the whales, seals and birds which live on and around this magnificent archipelago during the summer. As we approach Svalbard, we can expect the concentration of wildlife to increase. As we near the continental shelf offshore of Svalbard during our second afternoon at sea, keep watch for the seabirds which come to feed on the abundant plankton which rises to the surface. Once hunted to near-extinction for their oily blubber, the whales which were once rare here these are now staging a comeback and can sometimes be seen off the coast of Svalbard in summer - a true conservation success story!

Day 9

Kongsf Jorden Region
During the ‘night’ (what is night, when the sun never sets?), our vessel will have repositioned past the saw-toothed mountains of Prins Karls Forland and arrived in magnificent Kongsfjord. Surrounded by craggy mountains, bounded by the magnificent Kongsbreen and Kongvegen Glaciers, and crowned by the Three Crowns (a set of pyramidal mountains said to represent the monarchies of Norway, Sweden and Denmark), this is surely one of the most beautiful and tranquil corners anywhere in the world. Our first landing will be at the small settlement of Ny Ålesund. Situated further north than Longyearbyen, Ny-Ålesund is Earth's northernmost settlement, if a group of scientific stations, a post office and a single shop open for a few hours can be described as such... You will have to judge for yourself! These islands' geographical location has made them the staging post for exploratory and scientific expeditions for centuries - a proud legacy which continues to this day. The setting is spectacular, and the scientific projects are as fascinating as the history of the town, which has hosted the Nobile, the Norge and the Fram, Amundsen, Nansen and Nordenskiöld, all legends of polar exploration who passed this lonely outpost seeking to push the boundaries of humanity. The remnants of these expeditions (such as the mooring mast of the Norge) can still be seen today.

Day 10

Northwestern Spitzbergen
One of the largest protected wilderness areas in Europe, North West Svalbard was declared a national park in 1973. The area is famed for its history, which documents some of the earliest human arrivals on Svalbard. While Norse explorers may have sighted these icy shores during the Viking Age, the first definite arrival was the expedition of William Barents, the legendary Dutch explorer for whom the Barents Sea is named. While now protected from human distruption, when Barents arrived in 1596, he noted the vast numbers of whales and seals which were soon prey to English and Dutch whalers, who arrived within a decade of Barents to pillage the area's wildlife. The area occupied the triple point between land, sea and ice, and as such was the perfect location from which to harvest the gentle giants of the oceans. Sites used to dismember whale carcasses and render them for their precious oil include the Dutch settlement of Smeerenburg, where the remains of 16th Century blubber ovens and building foundations can still be seen. Other sites such as nearby Ytre Norskøya record the darker side of this industrialised slaughter, where hundreds of young men who hoped to make their fortunes are buried thousands of miles from home. Today, all that remains from this period of history are bones and the scant remnants of human habitation. Slowly reclaimed by creeping Arctic nature, the region is now a anture lovers paradise. Tiny Arctic poppies and purple saxifrage defy the brutal conditions to flower in the brief summer, while geese, eider ducks and other seabirds return to the island to raise their young. Walrus can be found hauled out on beaches, and we must always be on careful lookout for wandering polar bears in this now again wild region. Our experienced Expedition Team will be on contstant lookout for wildlife (including polar bears) throughout the voyage, and we will always inform guests if we spot something exciting!

Day 11

Central Spitzbergen
As we retreat from our voyage's northernmost point, we will set a course for central Spitzbergen. Measuring around 400km in length from north to south, Spitzbergen is the largest island of Svalbard, the archipelago it is synonymous with. The entire island of Spitzbergen experiences a polar tundra climate, with short, cool summers and long, dark, brutally cold winters. Nonetheless, life clings on here, and Svalbard's extraordinary wildlife can be found throughout Spitzbergen. On our final full day in Svalbard, we will head to wherever offers us the best opportunities for landing, exploration and wildlife experiences, guided by our experienced Expedition Leader and Captain - such is the essence of an Arctic expedition! Perhaps we will find a particularly spectacular glacier, and launch our fleet of Zodiacs to explore the hinterland where ice meets land meets sea. Maybe we will notice a colony of seabirds, or a herd of reindeer, and come ashore to observe them. Or maybe we will be lucky enough to spot a polar bear, king of the Arctic as we cruise along the coastline towards our final destination of Longyearbyen, 'capital' of Svalbard.

Day 12

Longyearbyen, Svalbard - Dieembarkation
During the evening, the Ocean Albatros will reposition to return to the port of Longyearbyen. Even this small town will feel like a metropolis after days of isolation in the wilderness of the Arctic! Longyearbyen contains the world's northernmost... well, nearly everything! This remarkable little city is not only the northernmost town in the world (if one excludes the tiny research community of Ny-Ålesund, slightly further north on Svalbard), but also hosts the world's northernmost civilian airport, schools, bank and supermarket. The town's rugged frontier edge belies a core of warm Nordic hospitality and coziness - 'koseligt' as the Norwegians say! After bidding a fond farewell to the crew and Expedition Team of Ocean Albatros, enjoy some time at leisure to explore Longyearbyen before heading to Svalbard Airport to join your flight back to Oslo- with memories to last a lifetime.