Image of the Ocean Albatros ship (Albatros Expeditions)
In recent years, the travel industry has increasingly focused on diversity and inclusion, yet some experiences remain out of reach for certain groups. One such experience is a trip to Antarctica, which has typically been inaccessible for Muslim travellers due to dietary restrictions and other needs. However, Albatros Expeditions is set to change that by offering the first halal cruise to Antarctica in 2026.
Scheduled for January 3, 2026, this groundbreaking trip will feature a fully halal-certified kitchen on board the Ocean Albatros, ensuring that all food served adheres to halal guidelines. This means that no pork, alcohol, or other non-halal products will be included in the menu. The cruise, which will cover the South Shetland Islands and Antarctic Peninsula, will last for 10 days and promises to cater specifically to Muslim travellers.
In addition to the halal kitchen, the cruise will offer several other Muslim-friendly amenities. For instance, there will be designated women-only hours in the sauna. Furthermore, guests will not be allowed to bring outside food or beverages on board, maintaining the integrity of the halal offerings.
CrescentRating, a leading halal certification body, will oversee the accreditation of the kitchen to ensure all standards are met. This certification is crucial in providing peace of mind for travellers who require halal options.
The initiative for this unique cruise comes from Rashidah Lim, Albatros Expeditions' Southeast Asia business development manager and notably, the only female Muslim expedition leader in the polar exploration industry. Her vision and commitment have driven the creation of this inclusive travel experience.
Jens Rasmussen, the chief operating officer and board member of Albatros Group, expressed his enthusiasm for the new offering. “We have always been innovative, exploring new products and ideas inspired by our team, partners, and guests,” Rasmussen said. “This is an exciting milestone for us to launch the first halal-certified cruise to Antarctica. Big thanks to the team behind the project, and Rashidah Lim for her great work making this idea a reality.”
This initiative marks a significant step towards making once-in-a-lifetime travel experiences more accessible to diverse groups. By providing halal options and amenities tailored to Muslim travellers, Albatros Expeditions is setting a new standard for inclusivity in the travel industry.
