Humpbacks send pearls of spray skywards as they dive back into icy water in screw-like movements, seals lounge peacefully on drifting ice, and colonies of penguins waddle along frozen coasts – welcome to the Halal-certified cruise to Antarctica with Albatros Expeditions. The family-run expedition company is making waves in the cruise industry, offering the first-ever polar Halal cruise to the South Shetland Islands and the Antarctic Peninsula in 2026.

A Muslim-friendly cruise to Antarctica

As a cruise line sailing to the farthest-flung corners of the world, Albatros Expeditions is well aware of cross-cultural exchanges and the growing trend towards responsible travel. The Scandinavian explorers behind the business want to endorse cultural understanding and are committed to inclusivity and diversity.

Hence, it’s no wonder that inclusive halal travel has appeared on Albatros Expeditions’ radar. Starting in 2026, the company will operate a fully Halal-certified kitchen in Antarctica – a milestone in expedition cruising. Never before has an expedition vessel provided that in the land of the vast ice sheets.

The Halal cruise project is spearheaded by Southeast Asia Business Development Manager Rashidah Lim, an industry veteran and the polar industry’s only female Muslim Expedition Leader. Rashidah is working closely with Johanna from the Marketing Department; with Sara, Albatros Expeditions’ Business Development Manager of the Middle East; and with the Product Managers Janina and Steffan to market and develop this product, the first of its kind in the polar industry.

While travellers with other religious identities are welcome to join this unforgettable adventure, the Muslim-friendly environment means no pork or alcohol will be served. Guests are also not allowed to bring outside food or beverages on board.

Apart from Halal-certified dining (Halal accreditation by CrescentRating), there will be ladies-only hours in the onboard sauna – daily at that, including panoramic views of the Antarctic sea ice.

With amenities tailored to Muslim guests, this once-in-a-lifetime voyage promises exciting experiences on the ice-bound continent.

A Halal Antarctica Cruise to the South Shetland Islands and the Antarctic Peninsula

After a mandatory safety drill, Ocean Albatros sets sail in the afternoon, departing from the vibrant Patagonian city of Ushuaia, the world’s southernmost city. The first highlight awaits at the Drake Passage, arguably the Earth’s most treacherous body of water, where up to 15m-high waves are studded with shards of ice.

But travellers need not worry. As well as a stable X-Bow design and powerful engines, Ocean Albatros’s purpose-built ice-class vessel boasts 1A Highest Ice Class to navigate ice and turbulent waterways with ease.

After the planet’s most terrifying ocean crossing beset by storms, where the Atlantic, Pacific, and Southern Oceans meet, the ship crosses the Antarctic Convergence. While it’s marked by a sudden drop in temperature due to warm currents giving in to the Antarctic waters, the transition sees a surge in marine life. People can expect sightings of petrels, albatrosses, and possibly seals, whales, and penguins, which will welcome everyone warmly. Weather permitting, Ocean Albatros may arrive in the South Shetland Islands on the third day.

Just a day later, travellers will set foot on icy expanses, arriving on inflated zodiacs. Framed by towering ice cliffs, the spine of the Antarctic Peninsula is known for its glaciated islands. People may see nesting penguins and watch humpbacks feast on krill. The Antarctic odyssey will culminate amid the rugged beauty of the South Shetland Islands, known for ice-covered peaks, colonies of Gentoo and Chinstrap Penguins, and predatory seabirds like the Giant Petrels.

While the exact destinations will depend on ice conditions and the elements, icebergs, whales, seals, and penguins abound on this jaw-dropping continent of superlatives. The days will be filled with activities, and the expedition team will deliver engaging lectures for a truly remarkable experience.

Unparalleled comfort

With an average occupancy of only 175 guests, the Halal-certified cruise will offer an intimate atmosphere. As well as balconies and hydraulic platforms, panoramic saunas and bubbling jacuzzis overlooking polar waters will provide unparalleled comfort and work-life harmony.

Travellers interested in Halal-certified cruising can find more information on Albatros Expeditions’ website.