national geographic antarctica tour

Antarctica: A Virtual Reality Exploration

Join National Geographic photographer Paul Nicklen for an unparalleled virtual reality tour of Antarctica, where he took incredible 360-degree footage of the breathtaking landscape and his encounters with wildlife.

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Last Updated

October 19, 2023

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National Geographic Antarctica Direct

• Rates & Dates

Accommodations

• Extend your trip
• Travel Guides

Experience the wild grandeur of the White Continent in a more efficient, expedient way, via a 2-hour flight between Antarctica and Chile. Fly over the Drake Passage in both directions, or cruise it one way, to discover all of the highlights without sacrificing the extra time.

Tick off various bucket list items on this itinerary. Explore the world’s last great wilderness in the company of top naturalists and the most experienced polar captains in Antarctica, with more than 55 years of expedition heritage. Hike amid magnificent mountains; see huge glaciers; and observe a parade of gentoo, Adélie and chinstrap penguins. Kayak in protected waters, paddling in the Antarctic stillness as penguins swim nearby. kids and teens will learn about this exhilarating part of the world with the National Geographic Global Explorers family program.

Travel with a diverse team of experts aboard 148-guest National Geographic Explorer , the definitive expedition ship. Venture into channels and coves framed by towering peaks. Watch for whales off the bow; Zodiac cruise around enormous icebergs; and hike, kayak, and even possibly cross-country ski in complete tranquility. Choose an active agenda or surrender to the pleasures of relaxing downtime and shipboard camaraderie. Plus, get top shots with the help of a National Geographic Photography Expert.

Read on for details about this trip, or learn more about AdventureSmith’s  Antarctica cruises  and  trips to Antarctica , including even more ways to  fly the Drake Passage .

Antarctica Direct: Fly the Drake Passage Itinerary

The 8-day Antarctica Direct: Fly the Drake Passage cruise operates round-trip from Puerto Natales, Chile, embarking and disembarking at King George Island with bookend charter flights.

Arrive in Puerto Natales. Originally a small fishing port, the town is nestled on the Last Hope Sound and boasts a stunning view of the sea surrounded by the Cerro Benitez Mountains—the gateway to Torres del Paine. Transfer from the airport to the included group hotel. Join this evening for dinner and a briefing on the following day’s activities.

Hotel Costaustralis or Remota Patagonia Lodge (or similar)

Following breakfast, check out of the hotel and transfer to the airport for your 2-hour direct flight to King George Island and the thrilling start to your Antarctic adventure. Home to a diverse assortment of wildlife—Weddell and elephant seals, Adelie, chinstrap and gentoo penguins—King George Island also has a human presence. Researchers from a wide range of countries, including the US, Chile, Argentina and Brazil, call the various stations home. Your flight will land at the Chilean research station where the ship will be waiting offshore. Board Zodiacs to embark the ship and set sail.

National Geographic Explorer

breakfast, lunch, dinner

With long hours of daylight at this time of year, enjoy ample opportunities to explore. Your schedule is flexible to take advantage of the unexpected, whether you’re watching whales at play off the bow of the ship, hiking alongside penguin highways, or enjoying an evening Zodiac cruise amid porpoising penguins.

While wildlife is magnificent, ice defines the Antarctic. You’ll get to know ice up close and personal—from icebergs the size of islands, bergy bits and near-vertical glaciers, to the fragile, nearly invisible layers that have just begun to freeze. One day, you might set out by kayak to encounter towering icebergs at water level; embark on a Zodiac excursion in search of seals and blue-eyed shags; or walk amid thousands of Adélie and gentoo penguins. The next, you might experience the thrill of the ship crunching through pack ice.

Everywhere you go in Antarctica you’re surrounded by opportunities to capture uniquely beautiful images. Along the way your expert expedition team will enrich every experience.

This morning, the ship will be moored off of King George Island once again. Following disembarkation and Zodiac rides to shore, your flight departs the White Continent and returns to Puerto Natales where you overnight at the included group hotel.

Check out of your hotel and transfer to the airport to begin your journey homeward, or onward travel.

Expedition parka to keep; all accommodations aboard ship or in hotels per itinerary; all meals as indicated in the itinerary, both aboard and onshore; excursions; services of expedition leaders, naturalist staff, expert guides and ship’s physician; use of kayaks; entrance fees; all port charges and service taxes; basic WiFi (enhanced and premium packages available for purchase). Gratuities for all departures of National Geographic Explorer, Orion, Endurance, Resolution, Sea Cloud, Jahan and Lord of the Glens.

Mandatory charter flights between Puerto Natales and King George Island ($2,000 per person round-trip); private transfers; immigration fees; air transportation; extensions; meals not indicated; reserve wines & super premium spirits; gratuities for all departures of Delfin II, Endeavour II, Islander II, Venture, Quest, Sea Bird and Sea Lion; personal items such as emails, laundry, voyage DVD, etc.; and insurance of any kind.

Payment & Cancellation

In order to confirm this trip, a deposit of 15% of the total trip cost is required per person at time of booking. The balance of the trip price is due 120 days before the departure date. Special payment terms apply for groups of 8 or more; inquire for details. Guests who must cancel their trip for any reason must do so in writing. Standard cancellations are subject to the following per-person fees, based on number of days prior to departure: 120 or more days – 100% of deposit** 119 to 90 days – 50% of total trip cost 89 to 0 days – 100% of total trip cost **Advance payments will be credited in the form of a Lindblad Expeditions Travel Certificate, valid for 12 months from the date of cancellation, and which may only be applied towards final payment on any future booking.  

Terms & Conditions

This trip is subject to AdventureSmith Explorations  Terms and Conditions . Please read this information carefully and call us if you have any questions. A Traveler Information Form, which includes a release of liability, must be completed and signed by all travelers. Your Adventure Specialist will send you a unique link to complete this form along with a packing list and extensive pre-departure and travel insurance information upon booking confirmation.

Arrival & Departure

The National Geographic Antarctica Direct: Fly the Drake Passage cruise begins and ends in Puerto Natales, Chile (PNT). Plan flights to arrive to Puerto Natales in time to arrive at the hotel by 3:00pm on Day 1. Plan fights to depart Puerto Natales no earlier than 5:00pm on Day 8. If you would like assistance with international flights, please visit our Booking Flights  resource page.

Internal Flights

Group charter flights between Puerto Natales, Chile and King George Island are required on this trip’s itinerary; see this trip’s Exclusions. There is a strict luggage limit of one or two checked bags weighing up to 51 lbs (23 kg) combined, and one carry-on bag weighing up to 17 lbs (7 kg) plus a personal item that can be stowed under the seat.

Activities included aboard this expedition include Zodiac cruises, hiking and kayaking. Other activities may include yoga and stretching, land treks, glacier viewing and wildlife observation. Special to departures in November/December is the option of cross-country skiing, dependent upon snowpack conditions and weather at that time. See the Accommodations section for more information on what activities to expect aboard each vessel.

Room Configuration

In addition to listed Solo cabin rates, select double-occupancy cabins may be available for single occupancy with a single supplement fee. Third person rates are available in designated triple occupancy cabins on National Geographic Explorer at 1.5x the per-person listed rate in select cabins based upon availability. If you would like to share accommodations with another guest of the same gender, we will be happy to try to accommodate you in select cabin categories. This program allows you to pay the per person double-occupancy rate whether or not a roommate is found. Contact  AdventureSmith  for further details and availability.

Families & Children

Children under the age of 18 are eligible for $500 off the double occupancy rate. Skilled staff members trained with National Geographic Education organize activities that inspire curiosity in young people of all ages. Programming for kids may include activities like photo workshops, journaling, scavenger hunts,  Z odiac-driving lessons, hands-on nature and science programming and kid-friendly menu options.

Travel Insurance

Emergency medical evacuation insurance is recommended but not mandatory for this trip. Trip cancellation insurance is optional but also highly recommended.  Our partners at Travelex Insurance offer a variety of plans and policies to fit every trip and budget. Coverage for a pre-existing medical condition is also available if you purchase the Travel Select plan within 15 days of the initial trip payment; refer to plan details.  Learn more about travel insurance  or  get a free quote .

Itinerary Notes

Read this itinerary as a guide only; the exact route and program varies according to ice, weather conditions ,  wildlife  encountered  and the captain’s discretion .  Flexibility is the key to the success of any Antarctica expedition. Visits to research stations depend on final permission.

Antarctica Direct: Sail & Fly the Drake Passage Itinerary

The 10-day Antarctica Direct: Sail & Fly the Drake Passage cruise begins by sailing from Ushuaia, Argentina, adding 2 days crossing the Drake Passage, then ends with a charter flight from Antarctica to Puerto Natales, Chile.

Arrive in Ushuaia. Sandwiched between ice-mantled peaks and the frigid waters of the Beagle Channel, this is a fittingly wild place to be known as “El Fin del Mundo” or “The End of the World.” Transfer from the airport to your hotel. Join this evening for dinner and a briefing on your upcoming adventure.

Check out of your hotel and begin exploring this amazing region. Visit Tierra del Fuego National Park, clad in dense beech forest just as much as Antarctica was millions of years ago. Savor lunch on board a private catamaran as you cruise the Channel, keeping an eye out for plump South American sea lions and sleek seabirds like the imperial cormorant. By day’s end, you’ll be comfortably on board the ship and ready to sail off to the White Continent.

At times ferocious, at others flat calm, this legendary 500-mile-wide strait divides South America from the Antarctic Peninsula. Feel the excitement build as you begin the crossing, often accompanied by seabirds like the wandering albatross and—if luck allows—a pod of killer whales or rare dolphins. Get to know the ship and prepare for the adventures ahead. Visit the Bridge (ideal for wildlife spotting), relax with a massage, attend a talk on the unique biology of penguins, or simply settle into a comfy chair in the observation lounge, looking out over the waves as you contemplate the history of this passage named for English privateer Francis Drake, but first discovered by Spanish navigator Francisco de Hoces.

This morning, the ship will be moored off of King George Island. Home to a diverse assortment of wildlife—Weddell and elephant seals; Adélie, chinstrap and gentoo penguins—this island also has a human presence. Researchers from a wide range of countries, including the US, Chile, Argentina, and Brazil, call the various stations home. Disembark and take a Zodiac to shore to board your 2-hour flight back to Puerto Natales where you overnight at the included group hotel.

Mandatory charter flight between King George Island and Puerto Natales ($1,000 per person one-way); private transfers; immigration fees; air transportation; extensions; meals not indicated; reserve wines & super premium spirits; gratuities for all departures of Delfin II, Endeavour II, Islander II, Venture, Quest, Sea Bird and Sea Lion; personal items such as emails, laundry, voyage DVD, etc.; and insurance of any kind.

The National Geographic Antarctica Direct: Sail & Fly the Drake Passage cruise begins in Ushuaia, Argentina (USH), and ends in Puerto Natales, Chile (PNT). Plan flights to arrive to Ushuaia by 6:00pm on Day 1. Plan fights to depart Puerto Natales no earlier than 5:00pm on Day 10. If you would like assistance with international flights, please visit our Booking Flights  resource page.

A group charter flight between King George Island and Puerto Natales, Chile is required on this trip’s itinerary; see this trip’s Exclusions. There is a strict luggage limit of one or two checked bags weighing up to 51 lbs (23 kg) combined, and one carry-on bag weighing up to 17 lbs (7 kg) plus a personal item that can be stowed under the seat.

Cruise Rates & Dates

Rates are variable per remaining availability and are subject to change.

Learn About the Small Ship on Your Itinerary

The National Geographic Explorer is a state-of-the-art expedition ship accommodating 148 guests in 81 outside cabins. She is fully stabilized, enabling her to navigate polar passages while providing comfort.

100+ combined years of experience, 7 continents explored, decades of expedition cruising around the world & here to help you find & book your dream trip.

Additional Travel Options Before or After Your Cruise

This 5-, 6- or 7-day lodge-based trip in the center of Torres del Paine National Park offers over 40 unique explorations to choose from, including Base Torres and Grey Glacier. Enjoy breathtaking views of the Paine Massif and Salto Chico waterfall from home base.

Discover the magic at the end of the world on a 4- to 7-day Patagonia Wildlife Safari! No matter the length of your stay, you will be blown away by the unlimited beauty of the world heritage site Torres del Paine National Park.

On this customizable journey starting at 9 or 13 days, discover the different corners of Patagonia's vast territory in depth. Link 2 or 3 Explora properties in Patagonia via private jet and van to experience it all, including golden pampas, turquoise rivers, icy blue glaciers, snowcapped peaks and much more.

Inspiration & Education from Our Staff

When is the best time to go to Antarctica? On the White Continent, the answer isn’t so black-and-white. Consult this month-by-month list covering everything from penguins to pack ice to help guide your travel timing.

Learn about things to do in Antarctica, and how our experts can help you achieve your bucket list activities. Antarctica has so much to offer and our small ship cruise lines focus on experiencing the White Continent in an active, up-close way; here we explain how.

Our experts recommend their favorite Antarctica books on this comprehensive reading list. Prepare for travel with recommended books, field guides, travel guides, maps, & resources.

Trips You Might Also Like

After 2 hours of flying, be cruising the White Continent on Antarctica's first flight and adventure cruise combination. Experience an Antarctic cruise in only 8 days without crossing the Drake Passage, or choose alternate routes visiting South Georgia with only a one-way Drake crossing.

Experience unparalleled access to activities and adventure gear on this 12- to 14-day Antarctica air cruise aboard two modern polar ships designed for adventure, education and conservation. Fly one way and skip the Drake Passage to dive, snorkel and kayak sooner.

Enjoy a 3-hour flight before setting foot on the 7th Continent. This 8- or 11-day Antarctic air cruise aboard the 138-guest Ocean Explorer or 172-passenger World Explorer flies above the Drake Passage before exploring the Antarctic Peninsula.

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The 7 top antarctica cruises for 2024 + tips from an expert.

Plan your next epic adventure to the White Continent.

The Top Antarctica Cruises

Yuri Matisse Choufour | Courtesy of Hurtigruten Expeditions

Experience otherworldly beauty on an Antarctica cruise.

An expedition to Antarctica is a once-in-a-lifetime adventure for intrepid travelers who want to explore this remote destination at the bottom of the world. The landscapes are surreal, with eerily blue icebergs, towering ice-capped mountains, dramatic weather conditions that change within seconds and species of wildlife that exist nowhere else on Earth – it's hard to imagine until you've made the long journey yourself.

The fifth-largest continent is home to the largest ice sheet on the planet, the Antarctic Ice Sheet, as well as the Transantarctic Mountains, with peaks soaring more than 14,700 feet into the sky. West Antarctica has volcanoes that are part of a tectonically active area around the Pacific Ocean known as the "Ring of Fire." This incredibly diverse and magical part of the world also has the coldest temperature ever recorded at -135.8 degrees Fahrenheit in 2010.

U.S. News has compiled a selection of seven different Antarctic experiences to help you plan your bucket list adventure to the White Continent.

Book an Antarctica cruise on GoToSea , a service of U.S. News.

Atlas Ocean Voyages: 11-night Ushuaia Roundtrip

Courtesy of Atlas Ocean Voyages

This 11-night expedition with Atlas is available on several dates in 2024. One highlight of the voyage is crossing the Antarctic Circle, along with four days exploring Antarctica and two days spent in the South Shetland Islands. You'll also have two days en route to Antarctica and two days on the return trip on the famed Drake Passage – also known as the "Drake Lake" (on smooth days) or the "Drake Shake" (when the seas are rough).

During your days at sea, take in all the onboard lectures and films about Antarctica, and head outside on the decks to see petrels and albatrosses soaring overhead. This is the perfect opportunity to practice your photography skills before reaching the Antarctic Peninsula, where you want to take nothing but pictures and leave nothing but footprints.

Atlas' Jan. 14 expedition is on the line's newest ship, World Voyager. The purpose-built yacht-style vessel features a hydro-jet propulsion system that's quieter and less disruptive to the fragile ecosystem. This feature also provides the opportunity for guests to see more wildlife during up-close encounters. Pricing is all-inclusive on board the ship with free open bars; all meals, wines, spirits and craft beers; a stocked in-room minibar; all landings, Zodiac excursions and lectures; the use of kayaks, walking sticks, knee boots and binoculars; and a souvenir Atlas jacket to take home. Fares also include a one-night pre-cruise stay and private charter jet service round-trip from Buenos Aires to Ushuaia, Argentina.

Aurora Expeditions: Antarctic Peninsula in Depth

Tyson Mayr | Courtesy of Aurora Expeditions

Aurora offers a 14-night Antarctic intensive voyage sailing round-trip from Ushuaia on Nov. 6, 2024, aboard the 132-passenger purpose-built expedition ship Greg Mortimer. This vessel was the first passenger ship to utilize the state-of-the-art Ulstein X-BOW, which provides a smoother, quicker and more efficient transit across the ocean. The ship also incorporates many environmentally conscious features, including low energy consumption and virtual anchoring, which protects the sea floor and minimizes damage caused by traditional anchors.

Guests will find expansive observation decks and hydraulic viewing platforms for optimal wildlife viewing on board. Other highlights of the expedition are nine full days to explore the Antarctic Peninsula in nearly 24 hours of daylight at the peak of summer. During this time, you can expect to see whales arriving to feed on the plentiful krill, fur seal pups and many entertaining penguins.

Prices are mostly all-inclusive, with a one-night hotel stay before boarding the ship; all meals, snacks and complimentary nonalcoholic beverages; beer and house wine at lunch and dinner; the use of Muck Boots for the expedition; all shore excursions and Zodiac cruises; educational lectures; and more. Adventurous explorers can add on activities (at an additional cost) such as sea kayaking, snowshoeing, camping, and skiing or snowboarding. The line also offers longer 20- to 24-day expeditions that include South Georgia Island.

Read: Sustainable Cruises: The Top Lines Making Progress

Hurtigruten Expeditions: Antarctica, Patagonia and Chilean Fjords Expedition

Dan Avila | Courtesy of Hurtigruten Expeditions

For an extended adventure that includes crossing the Drake Passage twice, spending up to five days in Antarctica and then landing on Cape Horn in Chile (weather permitting), consider the 25-night grand expedition cruise aboard the Hutrigruten Expeditions' MS Roald Amundsen. Additional highlights are scenic cruising in Garibaldi Fjord in Alberto de Agostini National Park to see the Garibaldi Glacier; visiting the town of Puerto Natales, the gateway to Torres del Paine National Park ; and seeing the longest Southern Hemisphere glacier outside of Antarctica (which grows by as much as 150 feet a day), the Pio XI Glacier in Bernado O'Higgins National Park. This epic adventure begins March 9, 2024, in Buenos Aires and ends in Valparaíso, Chile.

The ship for the voyage, MS Roald Amundsen, is a hybrid vessel that reduces CO2 emissions by using electrical propulsion – and it's designed specifically for use in polar waters. The vessel carries just 500 guests (to adhere to regulations for visiting Antarctica) and features all exterior cabins with Scandinavian inspired decor. Guests will also find an Explorer lounge and bar, three dining venues, the Science Center, a sauna and spa, and other amenities. Fares are mostly all-inclusive, covering a complimentary expedition jacket; the use of expedition equipment like boots and trekking poles; landing activities; most dining options; and wine, beer and soft drinks at meals.

Lindblad Expeditions – National Geographic: Journey to Antarctica: The White Continent

Ralph Lee Hopkins | Courtesy of Lindblad Expeditions

Lindblad Expeditions was the first company to bring citizen explorers to Antarctica in 1966, pioneering travel to this remote destination. The line's 13-night expedition to Antarctica is offered nearly 20 times throughout the summer season in 2024 on one of three ships. Depending on the ship, guests will have one evening in either Buenos Aires or Santiago, Chile , before flying to Ushuaia the next morning to embark the vessel.

With about five days to explore Antarctica, you'll have time to take in the awe-inspiring landscapes and look for seals and blue-eyed shags up close from Zodiacs. On land, watch thousands of Adélie and gentoo penguins as they playfully slide down the snow-covered hills on their bellies – one right after the other – diving headfirst into the icy waters. After the adventure, a private charter flight will return you to either Buenos Aires or Santiago before your return flight home.

The line's newest expedition vessel, National Geographic Resolution, accommodates just 138 guests – and there are two new cabins for solo cruisers . Guests on the Polar Class 5 vessel will have a National Geographic photographer and a Lindblad-National Geographic-certified photo instructor and video chronicler documenting the trip. Onboard amenities include a yoga studio, a wellness specialist, infinity-style hot tubs, two restaurants and a chef's table, and plenty of indoor and outdoor viewing areas. This ship also carries an ROV (a remotely operated vehicle) for underwater exploration and other high-tech video gear.

You can even book an overnight stay in an igloo (on a first-come, first-served basis) and spend the evening under the polar sky. Fares are mostly all-inclusive and include all onboard meals and most meals ashore; nonalcoholic and alcoholic beverages; transfers; excursions; a complimentary jacket; and more.

Silversea: King George Island to King George Island (Antarctica Bridge)

Courtesy of Silversea

Silversea's six-night Antarctica Bridge expedition takes guests round-trip by a business class flight directly to the Antarctica Peninsula, flying into King George Island from Punta Arenas, Chile. This itinerary is offered several times throughout the season for guests who don't have extensive time to travel – or are nervous about sailing the Drake Passage. Silversea 's pricing is all-inclusive, and guests can choose between door-to-door or port-to-port fares.

While the weather determines the specific itinerary in Antarctica, guests can expect to have several excursions in the Antarctic Sound and as many as nine excursions on the Antarctic Peninsula that include hiking, kayaking and scenic Zodiac cruises with the expedition team. There's also one excursion in the South Shetland Islands, where you can look for massive elephant seals. There will be an abundance of bird and animal viewing on wildlife-rich King George Island, the largest of the South Shetland Islands, which is home to Adélie, chinstrap and gentoo penguins as well as Weddell and leopard seals.

Oceanwide Expeditions and Swoop Antarctica: Quest for the Emperor Penguins of Snow Hill Island

Getty Images

Swoop Antarctica's 10-night adventure-filled journey takes wildlife and history enthusiasts into the ice-choked waters of the Weddell Sea, past towering tabular icebergs, in search of the emperor penguin's rookery on Snow Hill: one of the most remote penguin rookeries on the planet. The incredible itinerary also sails through the same waters where famed Antarctic explorer Sir Ernest Shackleton's ship, the Endurance, sank in 1915 – and to the rarely seen west slopes of the Antarctic Sound.

Other highlights include Zodiac and helicopter landings (weather permitting) to additional remote locales, including Seymour Island, where the Swedish Antarctic Expedition of 1901 to 1904 spent a winter season; Brown Bluff, one of the most scenic places on the northern tip of the Antarctic Continent and home to a large Adélie penguin rookery; and the volcanic crater of Deception Island.

There are two sailings in November 2024 on board the 1A-class, ice-strengthened Oceanwide Expeditions' Ortelius: a 108-passenger former Russian research vessel. Fares includes all meals and nonalcoholic beverages, all Zodiac and shore excursions, educational lectures, helicopter transfers, and group transfers. Optional adventure activities, alcoholic beverages and other personal expenses are at an additional cost.

The onboard helicopter pad is one of the features of the vessel and is used on select expeditions in the Weddell and Ross seas. It's important to note that very few companies offer expeditions to the Weddell Sea that include Snow Hill Island. While Ortelius is not a luxury vessel like other ships mentioned in this list, it is a stable expedition-style ship built for these icy – and at times treacherous – waters and weather conditions.

Viking: Antarctica & South Georgia Island

Courtesy of Viking

Viking's 18-night Antarctica and South Georgia Island expedition begins with an overnight stay in Buenos Aires followed by a flight the next morning to Ushuaia, the southernmost city in the world. The first two stops on the expedition are in the Falkland Islands, where you'll find beautiful scenery with imposing cliffs, many types of marine birds and five species of penguins. In South Georgia, watch for king penguins and seals. Then, it's on to Antarctica for days 12 through 16. Guests will have the option to reserve a spot on the Viking DNV-classed submarine for a thrilling journey into the depths of the frigid waters in Antarctica. The return sailing, by way of the Drake Passage, disembarks in Ushuaia.

In 2024, this itinerary is available Jan. 31 and again Dec. 15 on Viking Octantis. The purpose-built Polar Class 6 vessel accommodates up to 378 guests and offers many of the same venues found on Viking's ocean ships, including the Explorers' Lounge, World Café, Mamsen's, Manfredi's Italian Restaurant and the Nordic Spa. There are also expedition-specific features, such as Expedition Central, the Science Lab and – for educational lectures and briefings – the Aula theater. Viking's fares are mostly all-inclusive, with all meals and wine and beer served with lunch and dinner; 24-hour specialty teas, coffees and nonalcoholic beverages; a keepsake Viking jacket; complimentary use of the excursion gear; and more.

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Expert tips on Antarctica expeditions

There are many factors to consider when planning an Antarctica expedition, including where you want to travel to, the length of the trip and whether you want to sail the famed Drake Passage twice.

To provide helpful insights and information to plan your trip, U.S. News reached out to an expert in the region, Aurora Expeditions' expedition leader, Ashley Perrin , for tips on planning your adventure to the White Continent. Perrin has degrees in both geography and oceanography from the University of Southampton. She was appointed as the first woman boating officer in Antarctica by the British Antarctic Survey in 2009, and has led multiple expeditions to Antarctica, South Georgia and the Falklands.

Which month is best (in your opinion) to travel to Antarctica and why? 

Perrin: "My favorite time to travel to Antarctica is the end of December or beginning of January, because the penguin chicks are starting to come out and you get the most wildlife spotting opportunities, with marine mammals, penguins and albatross – on top of the spectacular scenery."

What length of trip do you recommend for first-time visitors?

Perrin: "The 10- to 12-day Spirit of Antarctica or Antarctic Explorer (with Aurora Expeditions) is a fantastic introduction to the Antarctic Peninsula. If you had the additional time and opportunity, ideally you would also opt for a voyage that visits South Georgia. For many travelers, this is really the jewel in the crown of the Antarctic experience because of the incredible wildlife opportunities here."

What should you look for in an expedition ship/tour when planning a trip to Antarctica?

Perrin: "Travelers should look for a high-quality educational experience, including lectures and opportunities for Citizen Science. This is such a fascinating and important destination, and you want to ensure you can learn and take as much in as you can. A pivotal factor in this is also choosing a company that offers low passenger numbers.

"Travelers don't have enough of an understanding of the impact of this on their voyage. In the Antarctic Peninsula only 100 people are allowed on land at one time, while at some sites it is 30 to 50 people. Having smaller groups enables passengers to have more time off ship exploring and connecting with nature, and this has such a significant impact on your experience.

"If you like to be a little more active, I would also highly recommend an operator that offers activities, such as kayaking in Antarctica. This allows you to see Antarctica from a different viewpoint and the silence is amazing. You still have opportunities to do landings as well, so I think it's the best of both worlds."

Do you prefer the combination fly/sail for the Drake Passage or sailing the Drake Passage both ways?

Perrin: "I prefer to sail both ways as it's how you earn your right to get to Antarctica! You also get more opportunities to see wildlife like seabirds, and it gives you extra time to prepare for the Antarctic experience through pre-lectures and education. Travelers arrive with more of an understanding of what to expect."

Any other tips, advice or comments you'd like to share?

Perrin: "Do your research into the operator you are choosing and their different offerings – things like passenger numbers, expedition team experience and off ship activities – as these can all have a significant impact on the travel experience. There is also a big difference between traditional cruise operators and expedition operators and what travelers can expect. We ensure that our passengers are exploring and getting off the ship as much as possible.

"I would also add that it's important to do your research into the areas that you're most interested in. For example, it could be history, exploration and walking in someone's footsteps (such as Sir Ernest Shackleton), or the types of wildlife you might see. Having a deeper understanding of the history and the region really does enhance the experience once you are there."

Frequently Asked Questions

An expedition where you get off the ship and make landings on the Antarctic peninsula typically costs about $10,000 per person for a 10-night voyage. However, depending on the cruise line, the ship and dates of travel – and whether you sail or fly the Drake Passage – you could spend as much as $29,000 per person for a 12-night expedition or more. There are slightly lower prices for some expeditions, such as a few with Hurtigruten Expeditions, and you can find reduced fares and deals with lines like Atlas Ocean Voyages and Quark Expeditions. In addition, there are extended polar expeditions that range from a 14-night trip to the 94-night Pole-to-Pole Ultimate Bucket List Expedition Cruise with Hurtigruten Expeditions, which is priced at close to $48,000.

If you're not interested in getting off the ship in Antarctica to see penguins and seals up close (but no closer than 15 feet, according to the Antarctic Treaty), you can opt for a voyage on a large cruise ship that sails around the continent for a much lower cost. Just know that you won't be able to disembark at any point in Antarctica. For example, Norwegian Cruise Line has a 14-night Antarctica and South America voyage that makes a round trip from Buenos Aires, Argentina, for as low as $999 per person. You may be able to find even cheaper fares from lines such as Celebrity Cruises or Princess Cruises.

It's important to note that by the rules set forth in the Antarctic Treaty, only ships carrying 500 or less passengers are permitted to make landings on the Antarctica peninsula. The Antarctic Treaty, along with the International Association of Antarctica Tour Operators, has strict conservation protocols and regulates that no more than 100 passengers are allowed to go ashore at one time. The IAATO works with more than 100 Antarctica outfitters to create the guidelines and safety procedures to protect the fragile environment and wildlife in this remote part of the world.

The following cruise lines offer small ship expeditions in Antarctica with no more than 500 passengers. You can also look at tour companies – such as Abercrombie & Kent, G Adventures, Adventure Life and Swoop Antarctica – that exclusively charter ships or help navigate the decision-making process for their clients and book individual expeditions with the cruise lines.

• Atlas Ocean Voyages
• Aurora Expeditions
• Hapag-Lloyd Cruises
• Hurtigruten Expeditions
• Lindblad Expeditions – National Geographic
• Quark Expeditions
• Scenic Luxury Cruises & Tours
• Seabourn Cruise Line

These larger cruise lines offer sailings around the Antarctic Peninsula, which may include scenic cruising in and around the Gerlache Strait, Elephant Island, Paradise Bay and Schollart Channel.

• Celebrity Cruises
• Holland America Line
• Norwegian Cruise Line
• Oceania Cruises
• Princess Cruises
• Regent Seven Seas Cruises
• Royal Caribbean International

The answer depends on the expedition. The majority of passengers will depart from South America in either Ushuaia, Argentina – which is also known as the "End of the World" – or Punta Arenas, Chile. Then it will take approximately two days to cross the Drake Passage to reach the Antarctic Peninsula. Some lines also offer chartered flights from Punta Arenas to Antarctica, which only take about two hours. Some passengers who have taken the flight say it can be as unnerving as sailing the Drake Passage, since weather conditions can delay the flight for up to several days where you could potentially miss the trip.

Cruises on larger ships that only sail around the Antarctic Peninsula may embark in Buenos Aires; Santiago, Chile; Puerto Williams, Chile; Rio de Janeiro; ports in Florida or New Zealand; or even the South Shetland Islands.

The expedition and cruise season to Antarctica extends from November to March, which is during the austral summer in the Southern Hemisphere. But Antarctica is still the windiest, coldest and driest continent on Earth, so weather conditions are unpredictable and can change quickly – even during the summertime. One minute the sun may be out, and the next minute it can be snowing and extremely windy and cloudy.

Visitors in November can expect temperatures between a low of 25 degrees to a high of 32 degrees Fahrenheit. The warmest temperatures are typically in January, when you'll find days ranging between 33 to 36 degrees before they start to drop again in February.

Most expedition companies provide jackets that you can take home, so you won't need to bring a heavy parka if it's given to you on board. They may also provide waterproof boots that you'll need to use for wet landings. It's best to check with your expedition line to see what's available on the ship, what you can rent or buy, and what you'll need to pack and bring with you. Due to the unpredictable weather, it's advisable to bring different types of layers.

Here are some of the items you'll want to pack:

Layers: Pack at least two top and two bottom quick-drying base layers (or more, depending on the length of your expedition) that wick moisture, such as those made of silk, wool or bamboo. It does get toasty when you're layered up and moving around ashore, so choose lightweight options that will layer easily under the rest of your clothing and keep you warm and dry. For your mid-layer top, go with a lightweight polar fleece or vest; for the bottom, quick-drying warm tights or fleece pants are a good option.

You'll also want to layer what's on your feet, starting with a wicking pair of socks made from silk or synthetic polypropylene, followed by a good pair of merino wool socks from a brand like Smartwool. Glove liners are another must, especially if your hands tend to get cold. If you can, buy insulated waterproof gloves with removable liners to save packing an extra item. You may also want to toss a few hand and foot warmers in the suitcase in case you need extra warmth. Bring a lighter pair of insulated gloves for warmer days off the ship.

And don't forget a lined wool beanie, a set of earmuffs, and a balaclava or fleece neck gaiter to keep your ears and face warm and your nose and mouth protected from the cold air and wind.

Waterproof gear: The parka and tall waterproof boots may be provided on the ship, but if they're not, you'll need to bring your own. You'll also need wind- and waterproof pants to go over your base layer and mid-layers. If they're tapered at the bottom, you should be able to tuck them into your boots. Perrin says this is one of the most important items you should purchase and pack for your expedition.

Comfy clothes ­and shoes for around the ship: Most people dress casual on Antarctica cruises, so bring clothes that will be comfortable for days and evenings around the ship. It can get rough when crossing the Drake Passage, so you'll want flat or low-heeled shoes for those days at sea.

Other items you'll want to pack:

• Waterproof dry pack
• Sea-Bands and medications for motion sickness
• Camera and accessories with a waterproof cover
• Hiking poles (unless the ship has them available)
• Swimsuit (you may want to take the polar plunge!)
• Other necessary medications
• Hydrating lip balm and a good protective moisturizer
• Polarized sunglasses
• Books on the history of early exploration in Antarctica and the incredible wildlife

Why Trust U.S. News Travel

Gwen Pratesi has been an avid cruiser since her early 20s. She has sailed on nearly every type of cruise ship built, including the newest megaships, paddle-wheelers on the Mississippi River, and an 18-stateroom river ship on the Mekong River in Vietnam and Cambodia. She has also cruised on a traditional masted sailing ship and on a small luxury expedition vessel in Antarctica crossing the notorious Drake Passage twice. Pratesi covers the travel and culinary industries for major publications including U.S. News & World Report.

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Antarctica and Patagonia: Legendary Ice and Epic Fjords (Southbound)

• Get inspired by the possibilities.
• Build your ideal trip.
• Seek out Antarctica’s iconic wildlife—including penguins & killer whales
• Hike among the snowcapped “horns” of Torres del Paine National Park
• Discover Karukinka Natural Park, the largest protected area in Tierra del Fuego
• Cruise the waters of Francisco Coloane Marine Park
• Small Ship Cruises
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• Whale Watching
• South America
• Andes Mountains
• Drake Passage
• Puerto Natales
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• Torres del Paine
• Tierra del Fuego
• Torres del Paine National Park

Full Itinerary

Day 1: santiago, chile, day 2: fly to punta arenas, chile | embark.

• 1 Breakfast, 1 Lunch, 1 Dinner

Day 3: Tierra del Fuego: Karukinka Natural Park | Ainsworth Bay

Day 4: kirke narrows | puerto natales, day 5: puerto natales | torres del paine park, day 6: francisco coloane marine park, day 7-8: exploring the chilean fjords.

• 2 Breakfasts, 2 Lunches, 2 Dinners

Day 9-10: At Sea | Drake Passage

Day 10-14: exploring antarctica.

• 6 Breakfasts, 6 Lunches, 6 Dinners

Day 15-16: At Sea

Day 17: ushuaia | disembark | fly to santiago.

• 1 Breakfast

National Geographic Resolution

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Initial deposit is 15% of cabin fare and may vary by program, and most travelers will call our office and pay the deposit with a credit card.

Final payment is due 130 days prior to departure by Visa, Mastercard, Discover, AmEx, or check

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• Lindblad Expeditions - Reservation Terms & Conditions - Lindblad Expeditions

For full cancellation policy details, please contact us for a quote.

• 16 Breakfasts, 15 Lunches, 15 Dinners
• 16 Nights Accommodations
• Accommodations as listed
• Ground transportation as listed
• Activities as listed
• Meals as listed
• Access to a 24-7 Emergency line while traveling
• Complimentary Parka - available only for the duration of the voyage.
• Assistance by the onboard National Geographic Photography Expert
• Beer, wine, cocktails, and spirits aboard the ship. We are also pleased to offer a selection of super premium wines and liquors that are available for purchase.
• Crew gratuities
• Complimentary Starlink-enabled Wi-Fi internet is available to all guests aboard Lindblad Expeditions-National Geographic fleet, enabling email, messaging, and social media.
• Park and site entrance fees, special access permits, and port taxes
• Excursions, hotels, and airport transfers, as indicated in the itinerary 
• Selection of exploration tools curated to your destination, such as Zodiacs and glass-bottom boats, stand-up paddleboards, kayaks, snorkeling equipment (including wetsuits, masks, and fins), and other state-of-the-art gear
• Guidance and company of leading expedition staff
• All meals as indicated in the itinerary, both aboard and onshore. Meals are inspired by regional cuisine and locally sourced where possible
• Hors d’oeuvres inspired by regional cuisine and locally sourced where possible
• 24-hour access to snacks, premium coffees and teas, non-alcoholic beverages, and filtered water
• Presentations on your destination by expedition staff and expert guest speakers
• Complimentary reusable water bottle to fill at onboard water refill stations
• The services of a physician, physician’s assistant, nurse practitioner, or paramedic  where available
• Morning stretch classes and 24-hour access to exercise equipment where available
• 24-hour access to lounges, observation decks, library stocked with regionally relevant literature, and other shared spaces 
• Lindblad Expeditions-National Geographic certified photo instructor
• Travel Insurance
• Personal Expenses
• Additional excursions during free time
• Fuel and transportation surcharges (when applicable)
• Laundry, spa treatments, scuba diving, Wi-Fi and phone services (except when indicated as included)
• We strongly recommend our guests to take Travel Protection Plan. A Plan with comprehensive coverage to protect you from cancellation fees, costs incurred due to trip delays/interruption, damaged or lost baggage, medical assistance, and evacuation during your travels
• Airfare (except flights when indicated as included), pre- and post-expedition extensions, additional hotel nights, and private transfers (except when indicated as included)
• Travel protection plans and passport, visa, and immigration fees 
• Enhanced and premium Wi-Fi plans, which may enable video chat, web browsing, and streaming (connectivity permitting)

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Antarctica travel guide.

• All Antarctica Trips
• Antarctica Luxury Cruises
• Best Time of Year to Travel to Antarctica
• Comparing the Two Polar Regions: Antarctica and Arctic Cruising
• Antarctica FAQs
• Antarctica Weather
• Antarctica Fly + Cruise
• Falkland Islands
• Antarctica Adventure Cruises
• Kayaking in Antarctica Tours
• Camping in Antarctica

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Journey to Antarctica: The White Continent

About this tour.

Discover the magic and wonder of Santiago, Ushuaia and the “White Continent” – Antarctica. Enjoy Santiago, before flying over Patagonia to Ushuaia, the southernmost city in the world. Begin your Antarctic expedition aboard the fully equipped National Geographic Resolution by crossing the Drake Passage. Explore vistas of blue-white glaciers and busy penguin rookeries. See breaching whales crashing and scenes of pure ice walls as you observe from the deck of the ship. Explore on shore with our passionate ship's naturalists and learn about the local populations of penguins, seals, and humpback whales. Join a National Geographic photographer for photo tips during your close encounters with Gentoo penguins. Feel the glacial ice crunch as your expedition ship makes its way through a pack of ice with its hull strengthened to “ice class.”

Your Tour Includes

• 2 Handpicked Accommodations

Included Highlights

• The Drake Passage
• Next-Generation Expedition Ship

Your Tour at a Glance

11 Breakfasts

4 - Very Active

Travel Style

On tour air.

Activity Level

• Level This Tour

For specific details about this tour's activity level and other info to know before you book your trip, click here.

Extension Style

On tour air included.

• The cost of all internal flights on tour or within an extension are included into the total tour cost on our website and brochures.
• Purchasing internal flights through Collette is now required on tours where applicable.
• This price continues to exclude all round-trip air getting to and from the tour, as well as any additional air segments required to arrive at or depart from an extension.
• The cost displayed is based on availability at the time of booking.

Travel Styles

Highlights and inclusions.

Must-See Inclusions:

Cruise through the waters of Antarctica on a fully stabilized polar expedition ship.

Cross the Drake Passage, a milestone for any adventurer!

Enjoy a tour of Santiago, the capital city of Chile.

Cultural Experiences:

Discover multitudes of Antarctic wildlife including seals, whales, albatross and chinstrap, gentoo and Adelie penguins.

Enjoy nearly 24 hours of sunlight as you absorb your surroundings ashore and from the expedition ship’s many observatory decks.

Culinary Inclusions:

Savor fresh and varied meals aboard the expedition ship while admiring the scenery around you.

• Zodiac Forays
• Penguin Colony Close-Ups
• Kayak Excursions
• Photography Guidance
• On Board Educational Sessions

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* With Insurance Purchased

• *No Hassle Refunds
• Traveling Well Safety
• No booking fee, *no change fees
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Your journey to the White Continent is made even sweeter with a cabin enhancement aboard the National Geographic Explorer. Upgrade to a generously-appointed Main Deck cabin, complete with windows that provide views of an unspoiled Antarctic seascape that no porthole ever could. Or, upgrade to an even larger cabin, where you’ll enjoy even more room to take in the Antarctic vistas from the ship’s Main Deck. You can also enhance your accommodations even further by upgrading to a cabin on the Upper and Veranda decks of the vessel, where you can indulge in a bird’s eye view of the incredible Antarctic. Or, choose a cabin on the Upper Deck that features a balcony for enjoying the sensory experience of your Antarctic journey.

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Accommodations

Hyatt Centric Las Condes Santiago

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Is this the ultimate Antarctica cruise ship? Our take on Lindblad's new vessel

Editor's Note

I was about three days into a 10-night voyage to Antarctica on the new National Geographic Resolution when I began to understand just how special a vessel it was.

We were plowing through one of the thickest ice fields that I have ever experienced during a polar sailing. A sea of white surrounded us. And the Lindblad Expeditions ship was bumping through it like it didn't have a care in the world.

From an observation deck overlooking National Geographic Resolution's bow, I watched, mesmerized, as the 126-passenger vessel pushed aside giant slabs of ice with ease.

For more cruise guides, tips and news, sign up for TPG's cruise newsletter.

Then the two-month-old ship did something even more awesome. It ran right into a seemingly endless sheet of snow-topped ice that stretched off to the horizon.

The vessel slowly ground to a halt, firmly embedded in the ice.

A few passengers standing near me thought it might have been an accident. But it wasn't.

A few minutes later, a little door swung open at the front of the ship and out popped several of our expedition guides.

In a relatively rare and wonderful moment of Antarctica touring, we had made "landfall" on a sheet of fast ice — sea ice that is "fastened" to the coastline. Unlike drift (or pack) ice, fast ice doesn't move with currents and wind, and it is relatively stable.

Stable enough, it turns out, to walk on.

Soon our guides were calling for us to join them. Bundled up against the cold, we followed them out that little door to romp around in the thick snow that lay over the ice like a blanket.

What followed was an hour-long celebration that included lots of selfie-taking, snow angel-making and a few impromptu snowball fights. Some passengers hiked a circular path stomped out in the snow by our guides. Others just gazed in awe at the larger-than-life scene all around: Snow, ice, glaciers and mountains as far as the eye could see.

Even for people like me who have traveled by ship through polar regions many times, it was a special moment — one made possible by the remarkable abilities of this new vessel.

A faster, more maneuverable ship

National Geographic Resolution is an expedition cruise ship — a type of cruise ship that is specifically designed for adventurous travel to remote, hard-to-reach places such as Antarctica. It's also a particularly hardy and versatile one.

Not every expedition cruise vessel is capable of pushing itself into fast ice in Antarctica to give passengers a chance to walk above the frozen sea. Those that are usually only do it early in the Antarctica cruise season, when fast ice is more plentiful.

Related: An untamed wilderness: Discovering the wild dreamscape of Antarctica

By late January, when I first arrived in Antarctica to test out National Geographic Resolution, the fast ice mostly had melted away in the northernmost areas of the Antarctic Peninsula that draw the bulk of Antarctica expedition vessels. To get us into the ice, the ship had to travel farther south than some expedition ships will go in Antarctica, to an ice-clogged waterway known as Lallemand Fjord.

Lallemand Fjord was so far south that we had to cross the Antarctic Circle — the latitude where the sun never sets at the height of the austral summer — to get there.

We only could do that, and get so deep into the ice, because National Geographic Resolution is tougher, faster and more maneuverable than most existing expedition cruise ships.

Built by Ulstein, a Norwegian shipbuilding company known for producing hardy vessels, National Geographic Resolution boasts an extra-strong hull that lets it bump through ice that would stop many lesser ships. It carries a polar class rating of PC 5 Category A, a notch above most Antarctica cruise vessels.

The ship has powerful engines that let it travel at more than 16 knots even in rough seas — several knots more than is typical for most expedition vessels. This gives it a wider range when traveling in Antarctica.

In addition, National Geographic Resolution can spin completely around in place, thanks to two Azipod thrusters that hang down below the vessel and can rotate a full 360 degrees. This allows it to better maneuver in ice-clogged areas than older expedition vessels with traditional propeller propulsion systems.

The extra maneuverability means National Geographic Resolution not only can get into an ice-clogged area such as Lallemand Fjord, but — more importantly — can also get out.

Wind and currents can quickly pack drifting ice around a vessel that's buried nose-first in fast ice, making backing out tricky. Vessels with traditional propeller systems that try to reverse their way out of such situations risk damaging their propellers.

But when it came time to leave Lallemand Fjord, National Geographic Resolution's seasoned captain, Martin Graser, was able to use the ship's Azipod thrusters to spin it around almost in place so it could break out of the ice facing forward.

A smoother ride across the Drake

The marvels of National Geographic Resolution don't end there.

Another notable — and very noticeable — feature of the ship is its distinctive sloping bow, which looks almost as if it were accidentally put on upside down.

As I saw during my voyage, the patented Ulstein design, dubbed an X-bow, cuts through waves in a way that makes it much more comfortable in rough seas than older expedition ships.

This can be a big deal on Antarctica voyages, which usually begin with a nearly two-day ride across the often-rough body of water between South America and Antarctica known as the Drake Passage.

More than 600 miles across, the Drake Passage often is roiled with waves 10 or 20 feet high, which can bounce around expedition vessels in what Antarctica aficionados call the Drake Shake.

As I've experienced myself on a previous trip to Antarctica, the churn in the Drake Passage occasionally can be even more extreme. Waves up to 30 or even 40 feet high at times are not uncommon — something known as the Drake Quake.

On last week's sailing, the Drake was relatively mild on the way down to Antarctica. But it raged for a time on the way back, with waves topping out at nearly 20 feet. It was then that the X-bow's advantage became clear.

While the ship still pitched forward and back in the waves, it was a smoother rise and fall, without the big bow slaps against the waves you get with traditional bows in heavy seas — something that can send shudders through an entire vessel.

For someone concerned about seasickness, that can make all the difference.

Related: These 8 books are must-reads before an Antarctica trip

Faster to the splendor

Our day of walking atop fast ice in Lallemand Fjord came fewer than 72 hours after departing Ushuaia, Argentina, the hub for most Antarctica-bound expedition cruise vessels. But it wasn't our first epic experience in Antarctica.

Thanks to National Geographic Resolution's speediness, we already had had two other major outings even before we dashed south below the Antarctic Circle.

The day before reaching Lallemand Fjord, after a Drake Passage crossing that lasted barely 40 hours, we had pulled into one of the most stunningly beautiful spots in all of the continent, the ice-filled Lemaire Channel.

A few hours later, we landed at nearby Petermann Island, famous for a colony of thousands of gentoo penguins.

Normally, an expedition cruise vessel heading to Antarctica might not reach the Lemaire Channel and Petermann Island until three or four days into the trip. But with an ability to travel at nearly 17 knots, National Geographic Resolution had reached them far faster.

Lined with glaciers and towering cliffs, the 8-mile-long Lemaire Channel and its environs is one of the great sights of Antarctica, and we used the extra time we had gained from our speedy crossing of the Drake to soak it in.

As passengers looked on from National Geographic Resolution's top decks, Captain Graser carefully navigated the ship down the waterway, past ice so heavy he wasn't sure at first he'd be able to make it through.

It was a scene almost too beautiful to comprehend.

The experience didn't end there. After we reached the far end of the channel, the ship's expedition leader, Shaun Powell, announced we would be venturing out in Zodiacs to steal an even closer look at the ice. (As is typical for expedition ships that visit Antarctica, National Geographic Resolution carries a small fleet of the lightweight, inflatable boats for such exploring.)

Boarding the Zodiacs at a side door near the ship's waterline, we soon were darting around ice chunks of all shapes and sizes, from small transparent "growlers" just a few feet across to larger "bergy bits" as big as a house and even bigger icebergs.

Some were all white; some were laced with spectacular streaks of blue. Some, much to our delight, were topped with lounging seals.

The outing continued until late afternoon, when we returned to the ship to prepare for dinner. While we were dining, Graser moved the vessel to a spot just off Petermann Island, for an after-dinner landing to see the penguins.

Thus began seven days of daily landings and waterborne exploring by Zodiac boats that brought repeated encounters with penguins — often in large numbers — as well as sightings of whales, seals and all sorts of petrels, terns, skuas and other birds.

Fewer than 48 hours after departing Ushuaia, we already were in the heart of Antarctica's wonder zone.

Related: This new luxury tour gets you to Antarctica faster than most

From the Antarctic Circle to the Weddell Sea

As is typical for Antarctica trips, the seven days of exploring mostly took place along the Antarctic Peninsula, a staggeringly beautiful, 800-mile-long stretch of soaring mountains, glaciers, fjords and icebergs.

Thanks to the ship's speed and navigating capabilities, it was a wider-ranging exploration than is sometimes the case.

After pushing south below the Antarctic Circle over the first few days of the trip, we returned northward over the next few days to explore the northwestern parts of the peninsula and, eventually, its eastern side along the Weddell Sea — a part of Antarctica that not all expedition ships regularly visit.

Every day brought something a little different as we stopped at a wide variety of sites. At Neko Harbor, a picture-perfect, mountain-lined bay flanked by a glacier calving into the sea, we landed by Zodiac late one evening to marvel at large numbers of gentoo penguins.

The next morning, in the Gerlache Strait, we ran across an armada of humpback whales. We stopped for hours to watch them — first from the decks of National Geographic Resolution and then from Zodiac boats. Just hours later, we stumbled across a pod of orcas.

Later in the week, after rounding the northern tip of the Antarctic Peninsula to James Ross Island, some of us kayaked in a tranquil bay fed by waterfalls descending from a glacier, while others explored by Zodiac.

Related: I just went kayaking in Antarctica — and it was the most calm I've felt all year

At nearby Brown Bluff and Devil Island, we gaped at large numbers of Adelie penguins as well as gentoo penguins. At Aitcho Island in the South Shetland Islands, we saw yet another type of penguin, the chinstrap.

It was, no doubt, a very wide mix of experiences.

Maximizing the experience

I'd be remiss if I didn't mention a few more notable things about the design of National Geographic Resolution that contribute to it being able to offer such a wide-ranging exploration.

For starters, it has one of the best Zodiac launch set-ups I've ever seen. The ship's 13 Zodiacs tuck away very close to the waterline, in an indoor "garage" with giant doors that open to the water. This allows them to be deployed more quickly than on some expedition ships.

In addition, Resolution boasts both a rear-facing marina and side doors at the waterline for loading passengers into Zodiacs — a redundancy that gives the ship an edge in running Zodiac operations amid wind and waves. Many expedition vessels have either a marina or side doors, but not both.

Add in the fact that Resolution has a dynamic positioning system that lets it hover in place during Zodiac operations without having to anchor, and the result is a vessel that can land passengers in places like Antarctica much more efficiently than other expedition cruise ships.

Such efficiency plays right into the Lindblad style of expedition cruising, where it's all about maximizing the experience in any given destination, even if that means changing plans on the fly.

As I saw last week during our humpback whale encounter in the Gerlache Strait, the ability to stop the ship on a dime and get passengers out quickly in Zodiacs to take in an unexpected sight can make all the difference in turning an ordinary day into an extraordinary one.

Related: An Antarctica packing list

When Powell, the expedition leader, realized the humpback whales would be sticking around for a while, he was able to make a quick call to put down the Zodiacs to get us out among them. It led to an epic two hours of up-close whale viewing that included the opportunity to watch the massive creatures working together to bubble-net feed on schools of Antarctic krill — a type of coordinated feeding in which they circle their prey with rings of blown bubbles.

The whale encounter went on so long that some of the ship's hotel staff eventually came out in a Zodiac with hot chocolate to pass to passengers looking for a warm-up. They also brought out Kahlua, Frangelico and a few other liqueurs to splash into it — a lovely touch.

An adventure focus

Much to my delight, National Geographic Resolution also is designed with lots of interior and exterior observation areas where passengers can get up-close views of passing scenery and wildlife.

The bow of the vessel, in particular, is awash in outdoor viewing platforms that stretch over three decks. An indoor observation lounge at the bow offers views in three directions, and the ship's forward-facing bridge also is open to passengers.

This may not seem like a big thing. But in a place like Antarctica, it's all about the views, and you want a ship that is open as much as possible to the outdoors. Sadly, not every modern expedition ship has been built with this in mind.

National Geographic Resolution also sails with an impressive stash of adventure gear for exploring, including the previously mentioned kayaks, snowshoes and cross-country skis.

Also on board: a remotely operated underwater vehicle, which a two-person team permanently based on the ship can use to capture images of creatures that are far below the ship.

A stylish and comfortable ship

National Geographic Resolution isn't meant to be a luxury ship. It doesn't offer butlers with every cabin, as one luxury vessel sailing to Antarctica does . Yet it's still a stylish and comfortable ship — more so than many expedition vessels.

For a vessel designed to carry just 126 passengers, National Geographic Resolution offers a generous array of eateries and lounges, all with a soothing, Scandinavian-influenced design. Plus, it features a small but inviting spa and a fitness center that is large for a ship of this size.

The spa, notably, has saunas with glass walls offering views to the ocean as well as a separate yoga studio -- something you don't normally find on an expedition ship.

Just outside the spa, on an outer deck, are two innovative glass-walled "igloos" where passengers can spend the night under the stars on a first-come, first-serve basis.

Related: I just spent the night in an 'igloo' in Antarctica — here's how you can, too

As I experienced during my 10-night sailing, the ship's two main eateries have a focus on locally sourced and sustainable cuisine from South America that is well prepared. The ship also has a high-end chef's table experience, with a six-course tasting menu. Every passenger gets to try it once per sailing, at no extra charge.

National Geographic Resolution's 69 cabins and suites have the same clean-lined, Scandinavian-influenced decor as its public venues and feature lots of cleverly designed storage spaces that come in handy on longer Antarctica sailings. Most come with balconies — something that used to be rare for expedition vessels. About 20% are large suites, with a similar number of solo cabins.

The luxury of small-group exploring

While National Geographic Resolution isn't marketed as a luxury vessel, it does offer a rare and luxurious touch — the intimacy that comes with a vessel designed for just 126 people. This is something that can be a real advantage on an expedition trip to a place like Antarctica.

In expedition cruising, sometimes the ultimate luxury is being in a small group.

Related: The best new cruise ships sailing to Antarctica

Even if National Geographic Resolution is operating at 100% capacity, with every one of its 126 berths filled, its expedition guides can quickly get all of its passengers off the ship onto Zodiacs and on their way to see penguins and other wildlife. That isn't the case with bigger expedition ships that often carry at least 200 and sometimes even 400 or 500 people.

In Antarctica, in particular, the size of a vessel matters when it comes to the quality of the experience, as expedition ships in Antarctica are limited to landing 100 passengers at a time by international treaty.

The more passengers an expedition ship has on board in Antarctica, the more its expedition guides have to break them up into separate groups for landings, greatly slowing down the process of exploring at any single landing site.

The result is that passengers on smaller ships in Antarctica get to see far more wildlife and scenery up close than passengers on bigger ships.

A costly trip

As is the case with all Antarctica trips, voyages on National Geographic Resolution are expensive. Fares for 11-night Antarctica cruises on the vessel start at $16,780 per person, based on double occupancy — more than $1,500 per day.

That said, the fares bundle together a lot of extras, including a pre-cruise, one-night hotel stay in Buenos Aires, Argentina, or Santiago, Chile; flights from Buenos Aires or Santiago to Ushuaia, Argentina; drinks, including spirits and wines; and prepaid gratuities.

Frequent travelers might be able to ease the financial burden a bit. As part of a 3-year-old partnership between Hyatt and Lindblad, World of Hyatt members can pay for a Lindblad cruise using Hyatt points — or earn 5 base points per dollar on eligible spending (excluding incidentals), plus the standard bonuses for Hyatt elite members, as well as elite tier-qualifying night credits. All members — regardless of status — will enjoy a $250 onboard credit to use on incidentals.

Bottom line

National Geographic Resolution is one of two nearly identical vessels that Lindblad Expeditions has unveiled in quick succession. The other, the 126-passenger National Geographic Endurance, also has debuted in recent months and is sailing in Antarctica. It was built at Ulstein in Norway to the same basic specifications.

Lindblad has built up a lot of expertise in polar cruising over many decades of offering ship-based trips to places like Antarctica — an expertise that shows in the way it designed National Geographic Resolution. Along with its sister vessel, the ship is one of the most versatile around for exploring the destination and other polar regions. After four trips to the White Continent, I'm convinced it's truly the ultimate Antarctica cruise ship.

Planning an Antarctica cruise expedition? Start with these stories:

• Dreaming of Antarctica: How to book the trip of a lifetime
• Skip the Drake Passage: What it's like flying to Antarctica on a chartered plane
• 7 tips for visiting Antarctica before it's too late
• The ultimate packing list for an Antarctica trip
• These 8 books are must reads before any Antarctica trip

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Southern Explorations

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This trip is rated: moderate, how we rate our trips.

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National Geographic Explorer

Most Popular Antarctica Trips & Tours

Arrive in the sophisticated city of Buenos Aires, Argentina’s cosmopolitan capital - reminiscent of the European capitals, with a vibrant flavor all its own. Check into the Alvear Art Hotel (or similar) and enjoy lunch with your fellow travelers. In the afternoon, embark on an excursion to view the highlights of this exciting city from the Beaux Arts palaces on grand boulevards of the old aristocracy; the public art, parks and the legacy of Eva Peron. Please contact us for additional extension options in Buenos Aires. (L)

In the morning, you will be transferred to the airport for a private charter flight to Ushuaia, the southernmost city in the world. Upon arrival, you’ll enjoy lunch during a catamaran cruise of the scenic Beagle Channel before embarking your Antarctic expedition vessel. (B,L,D)

Awake this morning well into our journey across the Drake Passage. Lying between Cape Horn and the Antarctic Peninsula, the Drake holds a distinct place in maritime lore. Sometimes misty and gray, other times calm and clear, crossing the legendary Drake Passage is unforgettable and a milestone in any traveler’s personal travel history. In this area you may see Wandering Albatrosses, Grey Headed Albatrosses, Black- browed Albatrosses, Light- mantled Sooty Albatrosses, Cape Pigeons, Southern Fulmars, Wilson’s Storm Petrels, Blue Petrels and Antarctic Petrels. As you cross the Antarctica convergence, you will notice a significant change in the environment as colder temperatures surround you and the first icebergs come into view, and you will know that the White Continent is approaching. (B,L,D)

With long hours of daylight at this time of year, you will easily make the most of your five days exploring the Antarctic Peninsula and its surrounding islands. The veteran expedition team, with their expert knowledge of Antarctica’s waters, will craft an expedition where you will learn more, see more and experience more. Your captain will sail through incredible landscapes, passing by rugged mountains, glaciers, and icebergs. In keeping with the nature of an expedition, the schedule and itinerary is flexible to give you the best experience possible. Flexibility will enable you to take advantage of the unexpected - perhaps watching a 40-ton whale surface off the bow, taking an after-dinner Zodiac cruise, or heading out on an extra landing during the day. You will enjoy a variety of outings daily, allowing you to experience Antarctica with all of your senses as you walk ashore, cruise in Zodiacs, kayak among the icebergs and experience close encounters with wildlife. You will sail through the incomparable Lemaire Channel, land on the “White Continent”, see seals wallowing on the beach, hear the cries of penguins, and experience the huge, nurturing silence of this pristine place. One day, you may take a Zodiac foray amid towering bergs under a bright sun, walk along the shoreline amid a huge penguin colony, hike to a summit for a breathtaking view, or kayak along a cliff-side rookery in search of blue-eyed shags. And the next, you’ll have the thrill of watching the powerful ship crunch through the pack ice, or step ashore to the cries of thousands of Gentoo penguins. You’ll learn from the top-notch experts how climate change affects the penguin populations, how to identify the different penguins and how best to capture images of those same penguins from a National Geographic photographer. Back aboard, the Undersea Specialist may present video from that day’s dive — rare images taken up to 1,000 feet below the surface using the ROV. (B,L,D)

As the expedition nears its end in the Antarctica Peninsula, you’ll head back to the open sea and sail again through the Drake Passage. As you sail back to Ushuaia, an albatross or two may join the avian escort of seabirds that cross the bow, and the staff spotters will keep an eye out for marine life. Talks from the staff will reflect on all you have seen and learned and there’ll be plenty of time to share photos with the onboard National Geographic photographer, enjoy the ship’s amenities, catch up on the book you haven’t had a minute to read, and write emails home, saying “don’t want this to end.” (B,L,D)

After breakfast, you will disembark in Ushuaia with time to explore before proceeding to the airport for your charter flight to Buenos Aires. Upon arrival, you’ll connect with your flight home or continue to another location in Argentina. (B,L) Key: (B)reakfast (L)unch (D)inner

**PLEASE NOTE: This itinerary runs in reverse direction for some departures. Please inquire for details.** Arrive in the sophisticated city of Buenos Aires, Argentina’s cosmopolitan capital - reminiscent of the European capitals, with a vibrant flavor all its own. Check into the Alvear Art Hotel (or similar) and enjoy lunch with your fellow travelers. In the afternoon, embark on an excursion to view the highlights of this exciting city from the Beaux Arts palaces on grand boulevards of the old aristocracy; the public art, parks and the legacy of Eva Peron. Please contact us for additional extension options in Buenos Aires. (L)

The day is spent at sea, settling into shipboard life, spending time on deck and on the bridge, scanning for seabirds (notably the albatross), and listening to informal discussions from the naturalist staff to prepare you for the wildness ahead in the Falklands. (B,L,D)

You will spend the next two days exploring the Falkland Islands, seeing the human face of the region, reminiscent of Great Britain, with grazing sheep, tea and crumpets. Each Falkland Island is a variation on the theme of topographical beauty with white-sand beaches, vaulting cliffs, windswept moors and the sunlit yellows and sage greens of waving tussock grass. Here you will get your first taste of the incredible wildlife that you will experience during your expedition, as the Falklands boast thousands of irresistible Gentoo, Rockhopper and Magellanic penguins, as well as King cormorants, herds of Fur and Elephant seals and the largest albatross colony in the world. You’ll have time to stroll the photogenic Victorian-style town of Port Stanley, meet the hospitable locals, hoist a few at the famous Upland Goose pub and visit the evocative Anglican Cathedral with its archway of whalebones. (B,L,D)

These two days are at sea Whales beneath, birds above, as your voyage continues to legendary South Georgia. The top-notch naturalists will prepare you for the exciting days ahead with presentations on the wildlife of South Georgia, and, of course, the inspiring story of Ernest Shackleton and the Endurance. (B,L,D)

For the next five days, you will explore the spectacular coastline of South Georgia, jam packed with wildlife, breathtaking scenery and soaring cliffs. This is the ultimate destination for jaw-dropping landscapes, boundless wildlife and captivating history. Steeped in Shackleton and whaling lore, and covered mostly in glaciers, South Georgia explodes with life: Gentoo, Rockhopper and Macaroni penguins, enormous Elephant seals and a thriving Fur seal population. In keeping with the nature of an expedition, the schedule is flexible with opportunities for walking, hiking, kayaking and Zodiac excursions. You will paddle a kayak amid curious Fur seals, explore in a Zodiac among the bergs and compare aperture settings side-by-side with a National Geographic photographer. Hundreds of Antarctic Fur seals will greet you as the Zodiacs make landfall, and you will witness one of the world’s great wildlife spectacles: literally 200,000 stately King penguins on a single beach! As your captain leisurely circumnavigates the island, the plan will be to make stops every day including: Grytviken, the final resting place of the great explorer, Sir Ernest Shackleton, and Stromness Bay, where Shackleton, Tom Crean and Frank Worsley finally reached aid at a whaling station. South Georgia is an unforgettable part of the Endurance story, and you’ll have the opportunity to hike in the footsteps of these great men, hear their extraordinary tale of survival, and hoist a toast at the gravesite of “The Boss”, Sir Ernest Shackleton. (B,L,D)

As your ship voyages south over the next two days, you may head up to the Bridge to watch for icebergs and observe expert navigation at work as your skilled Captain and officers sail these historic waters. Each day the naturalists will offer talks that add depth to your experience. There’ll also be time to enjoy a massage in the wellness center, workout in the gym, and browse in the library. As you cross the Antarctica convergence, you will notice a significant change in the environment as colder temperatures surround you and the first icebergs come into view, and you will know that the White Continent is approaching. Weather and ice permitting, your Captain may even pass by legendary Elephant Island, where the crew of the Endurance landed and where Shackleton and five of his men set of on their incredible journey to South Georgia. (B,L,D)

With long hours of daylight at this time of year, you will easily make the most of your days exploring the Antarctic Peninsula and its surrounding islands. The veteran expedition team, with their expert knowledge of Antarctica’s waters, will craft an expedition where you will learn more, see more and experience more. Your captain will sail through incredible landscapes, passing by rugged mountains, glaciers, and icebergs. In keeping with the nature of an expedition, the schedule and itinerary is flexible to give you the best experience possible. Flexibility will enable you to take advantage of the unexpected - perhaps watching a 40-ton whale surface off the bow, taking an after-dinner Zodiac cruise, or heading out on an extra landing during the day. You will enjoy a variety of outings daily, allowing you to experience Antarctica with all of your senses as you walk ashore, cruise in Zodiacs, kayak among the icebergs and experience close encounters with wildlife. You will sail through the incomparable Lemaire Channel, land on the “White Continent”, see seals wallowing on the beach, hear the cries of penguins, and experience the huge, nurturing silence of this pristine place. One day, you may take a Zodiac foray amid towering bergs under a bright sun, walk along the shoreline amid a huge penguin colony, hike to a summit for a breathtaking view, or kayak along a cliff-side rookery in search of blue-eyed shags. And the next, you’ll have the thrill of watching the powerful ship crunch through the pack ice, or step ashore to the cries of thousands of Gentoo penguins. You’ll learn from the top-notch experts how climate change affects the penguin populations, how to identify the different penguins and how best to capture images of those same penguins from a National Geographic photographer. Back aboard, the Undersea Specialist may present video from that day’s dive — rare images taken up to 1,000 feet below the surface using the ROV. (B,L,D)

You may also wish to schedule your trip according to what wildlife activities you are likely to observe at different points during the season, details below:   o    Late October and November : The early part of the season showcases a number of highlights. Landing sites are at their most pristine. The possibility of seeing sea ice is present early on, before it breaks up later on in the season. Late October to early November sees Adélie, Chinstrap and Gentoo adult penguins and Antarctic-breeding seabirds starting to come ashore to their breeding sites where they commence courtship rituals and nest building. Shortly thereafter eggs are laid and incubated. Emperor penguins can be seen on the frozen Weddell Sea (visited occasionally by ice-strengthened expedition ships on special itineraries). Spring flowers begin blooming in the Falkland Islands (Islas Malvinas) and elephant seals are actively courting in South Georgia. South Georgia's female king penguins lay their eggs in November and the parents can be seen "carrying" eggs on their feet so that the parent can shuffle around the colony while the other adult goes out to sea to feed. "Oakum Boys" — king penguin chicks from the previous season — can also be seen in the rookeries. Fur seals litter the beaches in South Georgia with the males aggressive and ready to mate.   o    December and January:  The increased number of daylight hours brings exceptional opportunities for photographers and non-photographers alike, and the expeditions make the most of the summer weather and continuous hours of daylight. Research activity in the Peninsula at the scientific bases is at its peak. Penguin chicks begin hatching in the Falklands (Islas Malvinas); followed by hatchings in mid- to late-December at sites in the Antarctic Peninsula. Some 30 days after hatching, penguin chicks can be found in "crèches," resembling a nursery of sorts, which leaves both adults free to replenish their food supply. An exciting time of this part of the season is when the parent returns with food and the hungry chicks are persistent in being fed, running after the parent (or any adult penguin with food) in a "feeding chase." Whale sightings of baleen and toothed whales escalate in the Peninsula area. Seal pups can be seen on the beaches in South Georgia. Sea ice is also beginning to break up which allows for the possibility to begin to access to rarely visited sites in the Weddell Sea, Ross Sea and within the Antarctic Circle.   o    February and March:  Sightings of whales are at their peak in the Peninsula and an increasing number of fur seals can be found along the Peninsula and offshore islands. Young fur seals are also quite playful in South Georgia. Penguin colonies are very active with the penguin chicks beginning their molt - losing their fuzzy down and developing their adult plumage. During this timeframe, the parents will abandoned their chicks, and return out to sea to feed and fatten up for their own molting stage. Most colonies (Adélie, Chinstrap and Gentoo) are nearly vacated by the end of February to early March. Blooming snow algae is prevalent and receding pack ice has reached its peak for the season, allowing for easier exploration within the Weddell Sea, Ross Sea and Antarctic Circle.

Classic Antarctica

• Antarctica cruise accommodations
• All meals onboard Antarctica cruise
• Airport transfers for group charter flights - Included for some departures
• 1 night's accommodations Buenos Aires - Included for some departures
• Open bar onboard Antarctica cruise
• All shore excursions throughout voyage by zodiac
• Photography Program
• All gratuities onboard Antarctica cruise (except spa & salon)
• Expedition parka
• English-speaking certified guides
• Entrance fees for all scheduled tours, national parks & archaeological sites
• Southern Explorations pre-departure services
• International airfare to/from Argentina and/or Chile
• Group charter flight (Buenos Aires/Ushuaia/Buenos Aires)
• Medical evacuation insurance (mandatory)
• Trip cancellation/interruption insurance (recommended)
• Rubber boots and other personal gear
• Personal expenses (airport taxes, spa services, salon services, medical consultations/prescriptions, laundry, valet services, telecommunication charges, some premium wine & spirit selections, etc.)
• Expedition DVD

Falkland Islands, South Georgia & Antarctica

Price Range Per Person (Category 1 to Category 7):   22 Day Expedition $25,890 - $50,150 per person -There is a supplemental fee for the group charter flight and pre-trip hotel. -Please inquire for single supplement pricing. A solo traveler willing to share a cabin with another passenger (or passengers) of the same gender can avoid the single supplement.  -Contact us for details on optional activities available on your particular departure.

Falkland Islands & South Georgia

Price Range Per Person (Category 1 to Category 7):   17 Day Expedition $18,430 - $35,550 per person -There is a supplemental fee for the group charter flight and pre-trip hotel. -Please inquire for single supplement pricing. A solo traveler willing to share a cabin with another passenger (or passengers) of the same gender can avoid the single supplement.  -Contact us for details on optional activities available on your particular departure.

The M/V National Geographic Explorer accommodates 148 passengers in 81 comfortable, outside cabins. All cabins have luxurious amenities, and portholes, windows or balconies. Two cabins and five suites can be configured as triples and 14 cabins are specifically designed for solo travelers. Main Deck

• Category 1 (8): two twin beds or queen bed, private facilities, TV, one or two portholes, 17.5 square meters
• Category 2 (6): two twin beds or queen bed, private facilities, TV, window, 15.9 square meters
• Category 3 (23): two twin beds or queen bed, private facilities, TV, window, 19.5 square meters
• DEDICATED SINGLE Category A (10): twin bed, private facilities, window, 11.7 square meters
• Category 4 (11): two twin beds or queen bed, private facilities, TV, window, 15.6-8.6 square meters
• Category 5 (9): queen bed, private facilities, TV, private balcony, 16 square meters
• Category 6/Suite (1): two twin beds or queen bed, private facilities, TV, private balcony, 27 square meters
• Category 7/Suites (3): two twin beds or queen bed, private facilities, TV, private balcony, 30 square meters
• DEDICATED SINGLE Category B (2): twin bed, private facilities, TV, window, 11.7 square meters

Veranda Deck

• Category 4 (4): two twin beds or queen bed, private facilities, TV, window, 16.5 square meters
• Category 6/Suites (2): two twin beds or queen bed, private facilities, TV, windows, 33 square meters
• DEDICATED SINGLE Category B (2): twin bed, private facilities, TV, window, 12 squaremeters

VIEW DECK PLAN - HERE

Ship Amenities

• The National Geographic Explorer offers ample indoor common space, as well as expansive outdoor deck space, giving guests plenty of room for viewing the spectacular scenery and wildlife. She is spacious and modern, with six decks and a variety of public rooms that offer startling views of the passing landscape. Her public rooms include an open bridge accessible to travelers throughout their journey, a dramatic window-lined library and spacious observation lounge perched at the very top of the ship, plentiful observation decks (including easy access to the bow), and the forward facing chart room with a 24-hour beverage station, dining room and adjacent bistro, a state-of-the-art fitness center, sauna, library, spa, business center, mud room, and elevator. While the interiors are certainly elegant, life aboard is always casual, with no need for formal clothing.
• The vessel is equipped with an onboard fleet of 13 Zodiacs, and 36 double kayaks, a remotely operated vehicle (R.O.V.) capable of exploring depths up to 1,000 feet to film where no diver can go, a Splash-Cam, and an Underwater video camera; a remote-controlled crow’s nest camera with real-time footage broadcast on video screens within each cabin; a video microscope to view Antarctica’s invisible facets, and a hydrophone to listen in on whales.

Ship Services

• The M/V National Geographic Explorer is manned by a highly experienced, expert crew of 83 which includes an onboard expedition crew of 15 (an expedition leader, an assistant expedition leader, a wellness specialist, a spa therapist, Zodiac drivers/naturalists/historians/guest speakers, a full time doctor a video chronicler, a National Geographic photographer, and an undersea specialist).

• Late October and November : The early part of the season showcases a number of highlights. Landing sites are at their most pristine. The possibility of seeing sea ice is present early on, before it breaks up later in the season. Late October to early November sees Adélie, Chinstrap and Gentoo adult penguins and Antarctic-breeding seabirds starting to come ashore to their breeding sites where they commence courtship rituals and nest building. Shortly thereafter eggs are laid and incubated. Emperor penguins can be seen on the frozen Weddell Sea (visited via helicopter on special Emperor penguin voyages). Spring flowers begin blooming in the Falkland Islands (Islas Malvinas) and elephant seals are actively courting in South Georgia. South Georgia's female king penguins lay their eggs in November and the parents can be seen "carrying" eggs on their feet so that the parent can shuffle around the colony while the other adult goes out to sea to feed. "Oakum Boys" — king penguin chicks from the previous season — can also be seen in the rookeries. Fur seals litter the beaches in South Georgia with the males aggressive and ready to mate.
• December and January:  The increased number of daylight hours brings exceptional opportunities for photographers and non-photographers alike, and the expeditions make the most of the summer weather and continuous hours of daylight. Research activity in the Peninsula at the scientific bases is at its peak. Penguin chicks begin hatching in the Falklands (Islas Malvinas); followed by hatchings in mid- to late-December at sites in the Antarctic Peninsula. Some 30 days after hatching, penguin chicks can be found in "crèches," resembling a nursery of sorts, which leaves both adults free to replenish their food supply. An exciting time of this part of the season is when the parent returns with food and the hungry chicks are persistent in being fed, running after the parent (or any adult penguin with food) in a "feeding chase." Whale sightings of baleen and toothed whales escalate in the Peninsula area. Seal pups can be seen on the beaches in South Georgia. Sea ice is also beginning to break up, which allows for the possibility to begin to access to rarely visited sites in the Weddell Sea, Ross Sea and within the Antarctic Circle.
• February and March:  Sightings of whales are at their peak in the Peninsula and an increasing number of fur seals can be found along the Peninsula and offshore islands. Young fur seals are also quite playful in South Georgia. Penguin colonies are very active with the penguin chicks beginning their molt - losing their fuzzy down and developing their adult plumage. During this timeframe, the parents will abandoned their chicks, and return out to sea to feed and fatten up for their own molting stage. Most colonies (Adélie, Chinstrap and Gentoo) are nearly vacated by the end of February to early March. Blooming snow algae is prevalent and receding pack ice has reached its peak for the season, allowing for easier exploration within the Weddell Sea, Ross Sea and Antarctic Circle.

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Journey to Antarctica

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• View magnificent mountains, towering icebergs, and ice formations that make up the dramatic Antarctic landscape.
• Cruise aboard sturdy Zodiac landing craft in search of leopard seals.
• Kayak in protected waters, paddling around icebergs as penguins swim nearby.
• Walk on shore amid thousands of penguins, including gentoo, Adélie, and chinstrap.
• Explore the world's last great wilderness in the company of a team of top naturalists.

What's this trip about?

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• High Adventure
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• Small Ship Cruise

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Depart on an overnight flight to Buenos Aires. Settle into your hotel before heading out on an afternoon tour of the city. Gather for a welcome reception.

Caesar Park Hotel (D)

Fly to Ushuaia, the southernmost city in the world, and enjoy lunch overlooking the Beagle Channel. Then set sail on the National Geographic Explorer.

While crossing the spectacular Drake Passage, spot whales and other marine life that glide alongside the ship.

This pristine bay is edged by soaring ice-covered peaks. Hike to a summit for a breathtaking view, or kayak along a cliff-side rookery in search of blue-eyed shags.

Cruise through the Lemaire Channel between towering snowcaps and blue icebergs. Step ashore at Petermann Island to the cries of thousands of gentoo penguins standing along the shoreline as if awaiting your arrival.

Dock in Neko Harbor. Walk among the penguins on the beach or climb high onto an ice field for a panoramic vista of untouched peaks surrounding this idyllic bay.

In 1944, the British government began a top-secret expedition code-named Operation Tabarin, creating a series of base stations in Antarctica. Base A, at Port Lockroy, is now a museum and Antarctica's only public post office.

Enjoy the ship's amenities as the Antarctic coast disappears from view. Round the southernmost tip of South America, and see the meeting of the Atlantic and the Pacific Oceans. Celebrate your voyage at a farewell dinner on board.

(B, L, D daily)

Disembark in Ushuaia. After lunch, fly to Buenos Aires and connect with your overnight flight home.

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Dates & Availability

Check Current Availability, prices, specials with National Geographic Expeditions .

The total tour cost includes the tour price (regular or promotional) and the compulsory local payment. The promotional price is subject to change. Check directly with the operator for the latest price offer. The tour operator requires you to pay only the tour price to purchase your travel. The compulsory local payment will be paid when you join the trip. All prices are based on double, twin or triple share occupancy. Solo passengers will be accommodated in a double, twin or triple room according to availability with a passenger(s) of the same gender. Single supplement only needs to be paid if the passenger does not want to share and requests their own room. Discounts can only be applied at the time of booking and cannot be added at a later date, regardless of any changes made to the original booking.

Prices may vary due to local taxes and trip seasonality. Click "Request Info" to inquire directly with the tour operator for the final trip price.

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11-day THIRD REICH TOUR

Tour operator, national geographic expeditions.

National Geographic Expeditions span the globe and are designed to reflect our travelers' broad spectrum of interests, from small-ship expeditions and classic train journeys to photography workshops and family adventures. When you travel with us, you'll enjoy boundless opportunities to be surrounded by natural wonders and exotic wildlife, to explore celebrated archaeological sites, to learn about different cultures and share in local traditions. A National Geographic expert or expert team accompanies each expedition, sharing their knowledge and passion for a region and making each experience enriching and unforgettable.

An Extraordinary Legacy of Exploration

National Geographic Expeditions, the travel program of the National Geographic Society, was founded on the same belief in the importance of exploration that distinguishes the Society's 125-year history. Launched in 1999, National Geographic Expeditions now operates hundreds of trips each year, spanning all seven continents and more than 60 destinations.

Since its founding in 1888, the Society has developed incredible resources—from its network of experts, contacts, and Society-sponsored researchers all over the globe, to the top-tier editorial staff of National Geographic and National Geographic Traveler magazines, and the books, maps, and film and television divisions. National Geographic Expeditions taps these resources to create unique and authentic expeditions to fascinating parts of the world.

As part of the National Geographic Travel group, National Geographic Expeditions aims to fulfill the Society's mission to inspire people to care about the planet by providing meaningful opportunities to explore it. Proceeds from all travel programs support the Society’s efforts to increase global understanding through exploration, education and scientific research.

National Geographic Adventures

National Geographic Adventures are unique, active itineraries for intrepid travelers that feature spectacular places, cultural interaction, and physical challenge: the perfect mix for an unforgettable adventure. Trek through some of the world's most legendary mountain ranges and veer far off the beaten path, discovering wild landscapes by foot, kayak, horseback, or camel. Each adventure has a designated activity level—from Easy to Ultimate Challenge, and you'll have the option to take it easy or push your limits on a harder hike throughout most trips. Your group will never be larger than 16 travelers, and you'll explore in the company of top guides, enjoying adventures that are both physically active and culturally rewarding.

National Geographic Student Expeditions

National Geographic Student Expeditions offer active summer travel experiences for high school students in some of the world's most amazing places. With the guidance of dynamic trip leaders and top National Geographic experts, students explore their interests, build new skills, and experience new landscapes and cultures firsthand. Each type of program—expedition, field workshop, community service trip, and photo workshop—is designed to educate and inspire, combining adventure, discovery, and cultural immersion. Photo workshops are led by a National Geographic photographer and include instruction and daily photo shoots. Students in our community service programs live in a village and work with community members on a variety of service projects. On each expedition and field workshop, students get involved in a unique, hands-on project that allows them to delve deeper into a specific topic—such as photography, wildlife and conservation, filmmaking, or archaeology—and further engage with the places they visit.

National Geographic Difference

Travel that’s tailored to your interests: Whether you're a budding photographer, a natural history enthusiast, a parent looking for a great family trip, or a traveler seeking an active adventure, you'll find an array of opportunities that fit your passions and interests.

The beauty of happenstance: Some of the best moments in travel occur when you least expect them. So that you can savor these instances and enjoy each place in a way that’s meaningful to you, we offer options and build free time into our itineraries wherever we can.

Travel in good company: Lasting friendships often begin on National Geographic Expeditions. Your traveling companions are Society members like you: active, engaged, and curious about the world.

Explore the world in comfort and style: Whether you're relaxing in the arcaded courtyard of a 15th-century monastery in Peru or speeding through Siberia on a private luxury train, our accommodations are carefully selected for their exceptional quality, location, and character.

We'll take care of the details: Leave the legwork to us. We take care of the logistics and details so you can relax, enjoy, and immerse yourself in the places you are exploring.

Exceptional resources at your fingertips: To help prepare for your trip, we’ll send you detailed information specific to your trip, including National Geographic books, articles, or maps relating to your destination. You’ll also receive a 20-percent discount on your next purchase* from our gift catalog or online store—shopng.com—as well as a free one-year subscription to a National Geographic magazine of your choice.

We’ve explored the world for 125 years. Now, let us take you with us!

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Top 5 Luxury Expeditions to Antarctica 2024

Posted: March 11, 2024 | Last updated: March 11, 2024

Though most people don’t think of Antarctica as the destination for their next vacation, it is still pristine, remote, and filled with almost otherworldly beauty. Whether it’s untouched ice landscapes, unique wildlife encounters, or the surreal experience of visiting the Earth’s southernmost continent, there is far more to visiting Antarctica than you might initially expect.

There is an excellent opportunity for those looking for more luxury expeditions in this harsh and remote environment. These expeditions provide unparalleled comfort and style, making the inaccessible accessible without compromising the spirit of adventure. Today, we will journey with the top luxury expedition cruises to Antarctica to learn more about their unique offerings and features that often focus on sustainable travel practices to preserve Antarctica’s fragile ecosystem.

1. Seabourn Antarctica Cruises

For our journey’s first leg, we will be cruising the Antarctic Peninsula with 132 ocean-front suites, luxurious amenities, and custom-built submarines for underwater exploration. The Seabourn Antarctica Cruises represent the evolution of luxury expedition cruising, offering the perfect blend of adventure and opulence.

On this cruise, you will also find spectacular views of icebergs, glaciers, and marine wildlife. The best time to set out on this particular cruise is the austral summer months (November to March) for wildlife viewing and milder temperatures. Just ensure you don’t miss out on the once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to explore beneath the ocean’s surface in one of their state-of-the-art submarines.

2. Magellan Explorer

Next, we’re off to the Magellan Explorer, which specializes in Antarctic air cruises, departing primarily from Punta Arenas, Chile. The Magellan Explorer is a modern expedition vessel with private balconies, a range of cabin categories, and state-of-the-art facilities. Explicitly designed for Antarctic air cruises, this experience provides a faster and more direct route to the continent than most of its competitors.

The Magellan Explorer offers an aerial view of the Arctic and a unique lens for Antarctic wildlife and dramatic landscapes. The peak season is during the austral summer months, especially December and January, for the 24-hour daylight provided. For the ultimate experience, opt for a cabin with a private balcony for unparalleled views of the Antarctic scenery.

3. National Geographic Explorer

We’re off to National Geographic Explorer for their expedition cruises along the Antarctic Peninsula. Part of the National Geographic fleet, known for its focus on exploration and education for travelers looking to balance their arctic adventure with a proper understanding of this wild tundra. These expeditions offer a range of activities like kayaking, hiking, photography workshops, and expert-led educational programs.

The surroundings of your expedition will be rich in wildlife encounters, including whales and penguins and stunning ice formations. The best time to visit is from November to March, with each month offering different experiences, from icebergs in November to wildlife in December to January. Just don’t forget to participate in the photography workshops by National Geographic experts to capture stunning Antarctic images.

4. Greg Mortimer

Named after a renowned Australian mountaineer, our next ship embodies the spirit of adventure. The Greg Mortimer cruises the Antarctic Peninsula and beyond with a variety of activities like kayaking, camping, and even stand-up paddle boarding. On the journey, diverse experiences range from crossing South Georgia to observing glaciers and icebergs.

For the best experience, go in the Antarctic summer, with different wildlife sightings possible each month. Make sure to try the unique experience of camping on the Antarctic ice for an unforgettable night in one of the least explored regions of the Earth.

5. Sea Spirit

For our last destination, we’re headed to the Sea Spirit for its expeditions along the Antarctic Peninsula. The Sea Spirit is known for its intimate and luxurious atmosphere focused on providing a more personal and immersive Antarctic experience. With kayaking, camping, and wildlife photography facilities, you’ll experience close-up encounters with penguins, whales, and dramatic ice landscapes.

The best time to embark on this journey is from November to March, with the late season (February to March) being less crowded and offering unique wildlife sightings. For this trip, use the ship’s smaller size for more intimate and less crowded landings.

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The post Top 5 Luxury Expeditions to Antarctica 2024 republished on Passing Thru with permission from The Green Voyage .

Featured Image Credit: Shutterstock / Piotrek Golemo.

For transparency, this content was partly developed with AI assistance and carefully curated by an experienced editor to be informative and ensure accuracy.

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Calgary teacher selected for National Geographic trip to Antarctica

Tyler dixon is one of 4 canadian educators selected for the fellowship.

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This fall, while his peers are focusing on getting students through the last part of the semester and onto Christmas break, Tyler Dixon will be far from the classroom, standing on the shores of Antarctica. 

That's because Dixon, a middle school physical education teacher at West Ridge School in Calgary's southwest, was recently selected for the Grosvenor Teacher Fellowship, a joint initiative by Lindblad Expeditions and the National Geographic Society.

And as part of that two-year fellowship, Dixon will embark on a two-week-long expedition to Antarctica, accompanied by naturalists, oceanographers, and other industry experts. 

"It doesn't feel real yet, I know what's happening, but it really hasn't set in," said Dixon, who's been a teacher for the past 17 years.

On Nov. 19 this year, Dixon will board a National Geographic ship called the Resolution. 

Once the team has reached Antarctica, they'll take part in daily excursions, including Zodiac rides, sea kayaking, hiking and cross-country skiing.

"They told us that most of the ships that go there with tourists can't actually access the places that Lindblad does," said Dixon. 

"So we get to set foot on the Antarctic continent, we get to walk around, we get to view all this incredible wildlife up close and personal. It's unbelievable." 

Dixon, who loves the outdoors, is also a member of the Global Environmental and Outdoor Education Council, a specialist council with the Alberta Teachers Association. He said the application process for the fellowship was quite comprehensive, but that he leaned on his past experiences of nature-oriented teaching projects to highlight what he could bring to the table if chosen. 

He already travelled to Washington D.C. to take part in a pre-expedition workshop and meet the rest of the 2024 cohort — a total of 35 educators from across Canada and the U.S. who will all take part in different expeditions. 

Dixon is one of just four Canadian teachers to be selected. 

After the expedition to Antarctica, Dixon said he and the other educators are tasked with bringing what they've learned abroad back into the classroom.

"Being able to learn from experts in the field and then having an opportunity to bring it back and share that with the next generation of learners and the people that are going to be taking care of this place in the future, it's pretty special." 

• Rare bear helps Alberta photographer win international contest

In a release, Lindblad Expeditions and the National Geographic society said this is the 16th cohort of educators who have been selected for the Grosvenor Teacher Fellowship. 

"This extraordinary expedition experience will provide these exceptional educators with invaluable insights into the intricacies of the world's most diverse ecosystems," said Amy Berquist with Lindblad Expeditions.

"Through their respective explorations, we hope they gain an even more enriched understanding of the world around them to ignite a passion for environmental stewardship in countless students for years to come, shaping the future of our planet."

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