Ocean Albatros: ship and voyage overview
- Akvile Marozaite
- May 7
- 4 min read
Words and photos by Akvile Marozaite
Exploring the British Isles with Albatros Expeditions: Introduction
When I received an invite from Albatros Expeditions' Craig Upshall to join Ocean Albatros for a short exploration of the British Isles—part of a wider UK travel trade fam trip—I jumped at the opportunity.
Having previously sailed to Antarctica on Ocean Victory, the sister ship to Ocean Albatros, I was eager to experience this newer vessel and reconnect with the brand and team I’ve long admired.
About Albatros Expeditions
Albatros Expeditions is a Danish expedition cruise company founded by explorer and adventurer Søren Rasmussen, who also owns Albatros Travel—one of Scandinavia’s largest tour operators with deep roots in Greenland.
The company operates two purpose-built expedition ships: Ocean Victory (2019) and Ocean Albatros (2023), each accommodating fewer than 200 guests. Both vessels are Infinity-class ships with X-Bow hulls for smoother sailings and are designed for immersive exploration in remote regions, particularly the polar realms.
Expect relaxed Scandinavian-style interiors, high functionality, and a strong focus on sustainability. Albatros is also known for offering excellent value for money—particularly in Greenland and Antarctica—without compromising on the small-ship expedition experience.
Excitingly, Albatros Expeditions recently joined forces with Polar Latitudes under new ownership, and I’m intrigued to see how this partnership will enhance the guest experience while further committing to responsible exploration.
The Journey: A Taste of Expedition Cruising in the British Isles
Our trip began with a hiccup. A power outage across parts of southern Europe resulted in our flight to Brest being cancelled, forcing an unexpected overnight stay near Gatwick.
The next day, with spirits still high, we flew to Nantes and transferred to Concarneau where Ocean Albatros awaited. Boarding the ship via zodiac in brisk conditions was a true expedition welcome, especially for those new to this style of travel.
After a lunch onboard, we had a thorough ship inspection led by Timea, Head of Operations at Albatros Expeditions. That evening included a port talk, dinner, and the camaraderie that only small-ship expeditions can foster.
Highlights of the Voyage
Scilly Isles – St. Mary’s & Tresco Abbey Gardens
Blessed with sunshine, we landed at St. Mary’s in the morning and visited the stunning Tresco Abbey Gardens in the afternoon. These world-renowned gardens are home to subtropical plants from across the globe, thanks to the archipelago’s unique climate. Our guide—a passionate gardener and custodian—brought the place to life.
Fowey – A Literary and Local Discovery
Arriving in the tranquil waters of Fowey, we enjoyed a short zodiac ride ashore and a guided walk through this charming Cornish town. Fans of literature will appreciate its connection to Daphne du Maurier, author of Rebecca. In the afternoon, a zodiac cruise with local guide and commercial diver Oliver gave us insight into the town’s maritime traditions and world-class diver training facility.
Portland & the Jurassic Coast
Our final stop was Portland, with a morning hike to Durdle Door—a Jurassic Coast icon. The previous evening, the ship’s geologist David offered a fascinating overview of the UK’s geological history, adding depth to our experience.
A surprise farewell concert by the Weymouth Ukeleleans and three cannon salutes sent us off in style, bringing back fond memories of warm expedition welcomes and farewells in some of the world’s most remote regions.
Why the British Isles Work for Expedition Cruising
Having travelled independently in the Outer Hebrides and other remote corners of the UK, I’ve long felt that the British Isles are an under-appreciated expedition cruise destination. While many of our travel trade group were onboard to experience the ship rather than the destination, I was reminded just how rewarding these itineraries can be for the right client—particularly those interested in history, horticulture, and off-the-beaten-path travel close to home.
Who Is Albatros Expeditions Best Suited For?
During the voyage, I spent time speaking with Timea, Expedition Leader Gabi, and several ECN members about the Albatros guest profile. Albatros offers a relaxed, unpretentious approach to expedition cruising—ideal for travellers looking for an immersive experience without the luxury price tag.
Their ships are well-designed, with spacious cabins and generous public areas, and never feel crowded—even at full capacity. While they share similarities with other Infinity-class vessels used by other operators, Albatros stands out for its excellent value, Scandinavian sensibility, and Greenland expertise.
Guests can expect a range of activities—kayaking, photography workshops, snowshoeing, and even camping in some regions—though seasonal availability varies. It's a great match for clients seeking an authentic small-ship expedition experience in the 4-star comfort range.
Final Thoughts
This short but enriching journey reaffirmed my appreciation for Albatros Expeditions—not just as a travel brand, but as a company built on exploration, warmth, and genuine passion for the places they visit.
For travel advisors, if you have clients seeking an alternative to the ultra-luxury polar market—or those curious about the British Isles with a twist of expedition—Albatros Expeditions is well worth a closer look.
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