Antarctica Direct: Fly the Drake Passage

Ship
whale

January 22 - 29, 2025

From $9,895 Per Person Based on Double Occupancy.

The White Continent launches you into a unique world of marine wildlife, frozen landscapes, and incredible geological formations. Bypass the traditional Drake Passage crossing on a two-hour flight to and from Antarctica and discover all of the highlights without sacrificing the extra time. Once on the White Continent, watch for the telltale spout of orcas and acrobatic pods of leaping dolphins off the deck. Approaching the Antarctic islands, we float into an ice desert of crystalline air and frozen seas. Staggering in its variety of forms, the visual beauty of polar ice makes every Antarctic explorer vow to return. Kayak and hike among Antarctica's most riveting, and often raucous, denizens: the Adélie, chinstrap, and gentoo penguins. Whether courting, squabbling, or fetching krill, their fascinating antics and adaptations to life on the ice are at once amusing and awe-inspiring. Zodiac cruise in search of leopard seals hauled out on the sea ice, then watch for the big dark eyes of Weddell seals popping their heads above the water. And explore lesser known terrain. While the White Continent is famous for its snow, glaciers, and icebergs, its rockier volcanic past is revealed at places like Edinburgh Hill, where columnar basalt juts out of the sea, and at the black-sand beaches of a submerged caldera called Deception Island.

Call (615) 322-3673 or contact us to learn more and register.

  • Accommodations

    The National Geographic Explorer is an ice-class expedition ship that truly lives up to her name. She embodies the expertise that Lindblad Expeditions has developed throughout more than 55 years of exploring Antarctica. This powerful yet intimately scaled vessel brings you directly, and safely, into the heart of this icy wilderness and allows you to experience it in unique and immersive ways. Her bow’s low profile gives you an exhilarating vantage point, making you feel as though you’re suspended over the glassy water. And you’re always welcome to talk to the captain and officers on the Bridge, where you can learn the ins and outs of navigation or take a turn at the spotting scope.

  • Program Inclusions
    • Round-trip charter flights Puerto Natales/King George Island
    • All accommodations aboard ship
    • Excursions, hotels, and airport transfers, as indicated in the itinerary
    • All meals as indicated in the itinerary, both aboard and on shore. Meals and hors d’oeuvres are inspired by regional cuisine and locally sourced where possible
    • Beer, wine, cocktails, and spirits, with super premium wines and liquors available for purchase
    • 24-hour access to snacks, premium coffees and teas, non-alcoholic beverages, and filtered water
    • Selection of exploration tools such as Zodiacs, kayaks, and other state-of-the-art gear
    • Guidance and company of our leading expedition staff
    • Presentations by the expedition staff
    • Access to the OM System Photo Gear Locker with the latest gear to try out on loan
    • Gratuities for the ship’s crew
    • The services of a medical professional
    • Morning stretch classes and 24-hour access to the fitness center
    • 24-hour access to lounges, observation decks, library, and other shared spaces
    • Complimentary parka and reusable water bottle
    • Special access permits, park and site entrance fees, and port taxes

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