A premium expedition operator is offering something genuinely unusual in Antarctica travel: full halal dining options on their South Shetland Islands and Antarctic Peninsula voyage aboard the Ocean Albatros. Superior balcony cabins are currently available starting at $8,950 per person, reflecting a 30% discount from standard pricing.

This is worth paying attention to if you've been holding off on Antarctica travel due to dietary requirements. The operator provides halal-certified meat options throughout the voyage with no pork products or lard used in meal preparation. As an added feature, the vessel offers ladies-only sauna hours in their panoramic sauna, an uncommon accommodation in expedition cruising.

The Vessel and Route

The Ocean Albatros is a purpose-built ice-class expedition vessel featuring a unique X-Bow design that provides exceptional stability when crossing the Drake Passage. This matters more than it sounds, as smoother Drake crossings mean more comfortable travel and better positioning to maximize your time in Antarctica once you arrive.

The nine-night voyage departs from Ushuaia, Argentina and aims to reach the South Shetland Islands by day three, weather permitting. From there, you push south into the Antarctic Peninsula, exploring the iconic Gerlache Strait where towering ice cliffs and dramatic peaks dominate the scenery.

With average occupancy around 175 guests, you get a genuinely intimate expedition experience. Larger ships carrying 300-plus passengers face significant landing restrictions in Antarctica, while vessels under 200 passengers can offer more frequent shore time.

What You'll Actually Do

The expedition operates with twice-daily activities when conditions allow. Your days include zodiac landings at penguin rookeries (expect Gentoo, Chinstrap, and possibly Adelie penguins), scenic zodiac cruises among icebergs, and wildlife watching for humpback and minke whales plus various seal species.

The skilled Captain and Expedition Leader determine landing sites based on weather, ice conditions, and wildlife activity. Historical sites from the heroic age of exploration are worked into the itinerary when accessible. The Expedition Team delivers daily lectures covering Antarctic wildlife, history, geology, and current scientific research.

Beyond standard activities, kayaking is available for an additional cost, and polar plunging remains an option for anyone who wants to brag about swimming in Antarctic waters.

The Dining Difference

The halal meal service runs throughout the expedition, with all meat prepared according to halal standards and complete avoidance of pork products and lard. Meals are served in the main dining room with international cuisine adapted to meet these requirements.

The vessel also features observation lounges, outdoor deck spaces, and the notable panoramic sauna with designated ladies-only hours, addressing both dietary and cultural considerations that most expedition operators overlook entirely.

Real Cost Analysis

At $8,950 per person for a superior balcony cabin, this represents solid value for Antarctic travel. The price includes all meals with halal preparation, zodiac landings and cruises, lectures, and expedition gear like boots and parkas.

Not included: flights to Ushuaia, travel insurance (required), gratuities, or optional activities. Budget another $2,000-$3,000 per person for these additions plus international airfare.

The 30% discount brings this from the typical $12,800 rate into low-range pricing for this Antarctica season. If halal dining has kept you from booking polar travel, this nine-night voyage offers a rare solution.

Questions About This Expedition?

Voyages with specialized dietary accommodations like halal service fill differently than standard expeditions, and availability can shift quickly. If you're interested in this voyage or want to understand how it compares to other Antarctica options, our team has actually been to Antarctica and can walk you through what to expect.

Reach out to discuss departure dates, cabin availability, or whether this expedition matches your travel priorities. We're here to help you get to Antarctica this season, always for less. Contact us today for more details.

Prices and availability subject to change. Expeditions depart from Ushuaia, Argentina and return to the same port.