national geographic explorer luxury antarctica cruise

Journey to Antarctica: The White Continent

  • Overview

    Exploring Antarctica in an authentic expedition style, aboard an authentic expedition ship is an incomparable experience, and your guarantee of an in-depth encounter with all its wonders. Pioneering polar heritage and 50 years of experience navigating polar geographies is your assurance of safe passage in one of the wildest sectors of the planet.

    Duration: 13 days
    Passengers: 148 passengers
    Embarkation Point: Buenos Aires, Argentina
    Disembarkation Point: Buenos Aires, Argentina
    Physical rating: Soft Adventure
    Fly/Cruise: Mandatory extra flight
    Single Supplement: 2.0x twin rate or share options
  • Itinerary
    • Day 1 - Overnight Hotel in Buenos Aires

      Guests traveling aboard National Geographic Explorer will fly to and from Ushuaia via Buenos Aires, Argentina.

      Extraordinary adventure is a guarantee on all of our Antarctica expeditions. Flexibility is a hallmark of our explorations, and often the shipboard day-by-day itinerary will change—so we may take full advantage of rare wildlife sightings, watching whales feed off the bow, or perfect conditions for a late day kayaking excursion.

      Guests traveling aboard National Geographic Explorer arrive this morning in cosmopolitan Buenos Aires, set on the Rio de la Plata, and check in to the fine Sofitel Buenos Aires (or similar). In the afternoon, we have a guided overview of the city, seeing its Beaux Arts palaces, grand boulevards, and the famous balcony forever associated with Eva Peron. In the early evening we gather for an informal reception and a drink at the hotel. (L)

    • Day 2 - Fly to Ushuaia, Argentina; Embarkation Day

      Today we fly by private charter flight to Ushuaia, Argentina. Guests traveling aboard National Geographic Explorer will from Buenos Aires, Argentina to Ushuaia to embark the Explorer; and guests traveling aboard National Geographic Orion will fly from Santiago, Chile to Ushuaia to embark the Orion. This morning's charter flight will bring us over Patagonia before landing in Ushuaia, the southernmost city in the world. If the weather is fine, you'll have a chance to view the spectacular mountains rising out of the Beagle Channel as you enjoy lunch on a catamaran cruise. Then, you'll embark the expedition ship and set sail, (B,L,D)

    • Day 3 - At Sea

      We awake this morning well into our journey across the Drake Passage. Lying between Cape Horn and the Antarctic Peninsula, the Drake holds a unique place in maritime lore. Sometimes misty and gray, other times calm and clear, crossing the legendary Drake Passage is unforgettable - a milestone in any adventurer's personal travel history. (B,L,D)

    • Day 4/9 - Antarctica

      With nearly 24 hours of daylight, we make the most of our days, keeping a flexible schedule to take advantage of the unexpected — perhaps watching a 40-ton whale surface off the bow.

      We are out daily. 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 ship crunch through the pack ice, or step ashore to the cries of thousands of gentoo penguins.

      You’ll learn from our experts how to identify penguins and get photo tips from a National Geographic photographer while watching those same penguins. Back aboard, our Undersea Specialist may present video from that day’s dive — rare images taken up to 1,000 feet below the surface using our ROV. Our expert staff will craft an expedition where you will learn more, see more and experience more. (B,L,D)

    • Day 10/11 - At Sea

      As we sail back to Ushuaia, an albatross or two may join the avian escort of seabirds that cross our bow, and our spotters will keep an eye out for marine life. There’ll be plenty of time to enjoy a wellness treatment, log some time in the gym, or catch up on the book you haven’t had a minute to read. Talks from our staff will reflect on all you have seen and learned. (B,L,D)

    • Day 12 - Ushuaia/Fly to Buenos Aires; Disembarkation

      After breakfast, we disembark in Ushuaia with some time to explore before proceeding to the airport for our LAN charter flight (guests on Explorer fly Ushuaia to Buenos Aires.

      Please confirm departure and arrival cities with an Expedition Specialist before booking your flights. (B,L)

    Please consider that our voyages are expeditionary in nature. This means, that there are no concrete itineraries, your Captain and Expedition Leader will utilise their vast experience to chart the best course for your expedition depending on the climatic and environmental conditions. Mentioned highlights and wildlife cannot be guaranteed.

  • Adventure Activities

    Kayaking

    The National Geographic Explorer carries kayaks designed to get guests of all experience and fitness levels out on the water comfortably and safely. And more than just a token few, we carry a veritable fleet to ensure everyone who wants to can.

    Included

    Charter Flights (National Geographic)

    The National Geographic vessels often require charter flights which are an additional cost.

    Estimated costs for these flights range between AU$1,000 - $1,500pp.

    They are recommended but not mandatory.

    USD$ 1,020 per person

    Penguins

    Taking centre stage on your Antarctic Peninsula expedition, are the Brushtail penguin species. These photogenic and intriguing species include, Gentoo, Chinstrap and Adelie penguins. The species are in abundance across Peninsula and are always performing.

    On board voyages in our other details you may come across Rockhopper, Macaroni, Magellanic, King and Emperor penguins.

    Send a postcard home from Port Lockroy

    This British base, established in 1944, on arrival you will receive a warm accolade both by the volunteers of the UK Antarctic Heritage Trust and the colony of Gentoo penguins that nestles just by the old timber structure. Get small denomination US$ notes to buy a few postcards and send them home with Antarctic stamps from one of the southernmost Post Offices in the world.

    Shoot to your shutter's content!

    For aspiring photographers, the best time to shoot the Antarctic landscape is definitely October, November and March. At these times the sun is much lower in the sky and thus creates beautiful twilight hues and shadows, which contrast the landscape magnificently.

    Of course, if it is wildlife and Antarctica’s babies you are hoping to shoot, then January and February are the best times. Alternatively, consider an early season South Georgia & Antarctica expedition for the best of wildlife and photo opportunities in Antarctica.

  • Inclusions

    Transfers, tour & accommodation

    Pre and post-cruise transfers are provided in your itinerary, along with a city tour and 1 night hotel accommodation

    Expedition Jacket

    A fully lined windproof, water resistant parka is included in the cost of your expedition.

    Free Bar & Gratuities

    The National Geographic Explorer will cover the costs of your bar tab and expedition gratuities*
    *On select items only

    Inclusions / Exclusions

    Included in your Expedition

    - Transfers as per itinerary
    - Permits / Park fees & Port taxes
    - Hotels as per itinerary
    - Physician
    - Expedition excursions
    - Hot beverages
    - All meals on board

    Not included in your Expedition

    - Internet & Phone
    - Expedition extensions
    - Passport / visa & immigration fees
    - Private transfers
    - Additional hotel nights
    - International & Internal airfare
    - Spa treatments
    - Gratuities
    - Laundry
    - Mandatory waterproof gear not provided
    - Baggage / cancellation / interruption and medical travel insurance
  • Map
    Screen shot 2017 07 04 at 5.24.48 pm
  • Gallery
  • Vessel

    NATIONAL GEOGRAPHIC EXPLORER

    Inaugurated in 2008, National Geographic Explorer is the world’s ultimate expedition ship. The embodiment of the National Geographic alliance, her design and equipment is the result of almost 200 years of collective expedition experience. Originally built for service along Norway’s coast as part of the famed Hurtigruten, or Coastal Express, her excellent maneuverability and just-right size made her a natural choice for addition to our fleet. Drawing on our nearly 50 years of pioneering expedition history and expertise, we completely redesigned and rebuilt her. Explorer is uniquely equipped with an ice-strengthened hull and advanced navigation equipment for polar expeditions; a roster of tools for exploration; and a well-appointed interior with vast expanses of glass for an unprecedented connection to the regions we explore. She provides a peerless expedition experience. Explorer accommodates 148 guests in 81 cabins, including 13 cabins with private balconies, six spacious suites and 14 cabins specifically designed for solo travelers. At 367 feet with six decks, she is spacious and modern, with a variety of public rooms that offer startling views of the passing landscape. Friendly and informal, Explorer instantly fosters a welcoming environment where enthused and curious passengers share in exceptional experiences and enrichment.

    Features & Facilities
    • Luxury expedition vessel
    • Affiliated with National Geographic
    • Dining room & Bistro
    • Large observation decks
    • Open Bridge
    • Library
    • Observation lounge
    • 24 hour beverage station
    • Wellness Centre
    • Gym
    • laundry
    • Spa
    • Internet/Wifi
    Key Facts
    Luxury star rating: 5
    Guests #: 148
    Crew #: 70
    Ice Class: 1A
    Speed: 18
    Refurbished:
    Technical Specs
    Year built:
    Length: 112m
    Width: 16
    Draft:
    Tonnage: 6471
    Registry: Bahamas
    Elec Outlets: 220V / 2 Round Pin
Check Voyage Dates, Pricing and Availability
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Ready to book your expedition?

We understand that the trip of a lifetime takes planning, so we make the financial commitments easy to manage.

  • Confirm your booking today with just USD$ 1,000 per passenger.
  • Pay your 25% deposit 5 day later.
  • Final payment due 120 days prior to departure.
national geographic explorer category 1 cabin

1 - Twin Cabin with Porthole

18 Dec 2019 - 30 Dec 2019
Twin cabin, with private facilities with plenty of luxury finishings.
USD$ 13,382pp
USD$ 13,382pp
national geographic explorer category 2 cabin

2 - Twin Cabin with Window

18 Dec 2019 - 30 Dec 2019
Twin or double cabin, with private facilities with plenty of luxury finishings.
USD$ 14,395pp
USD$ 14,395pp
national geographic explorer category 3 cabin

3 - Twin Cabin with Window

18 Dec 2019 - 30 Dec 2019
Twin or double cabin, with private facilities with plenty of luxury finishings.
USD$ 14,824pp
USD$ 14,824pp
national geographic explorer category 4 cabin

4 - Superior cabin with Window

18 Dec 2019 - 30 Dec 2019
Twin or double cabin, with private facilities with plenty of luxury finishings.
USD$ 15,932pp
USD$ 15,932pp
national geographic explorer category SA Single cabin

SA - Single cabin with Porthole

18 Dec 2019 - 30 Dec 2019
Single cabin, perfect for the decerning solo traveller.
USD$ 17,999pp
USD$ 17,999pp
national geographic explorer category SB Single cabin

SB - Single cabin with Window

18 Dec 2019 - 30 Dec 2019
Single cabin, perfect for the decerning solo traveller.
USD$ 18,530pp
USD$ 18,530pp
national geographic explorer category 5 cabin

5 - Superior cabin with Balcony

18 Dec 2019 - 30 Dec 2019
Superior cabins with Balcony and luxury finishings.
USD$ 19,237pp
USD$ 19,237pp
national geographic explorer category 6 cabin

6 - Suite with Balcony

18 Dec 2019 - 30 Dec 2019
Suite cabin with Balcony and luxury finishings.
USD$ 21,950pp
USD$ 21,950pp
national geographic explorer category 7 cabin

7 - Suite with Balcony

18 Dec 2019 - 30 Dec 2019
The largest suites with Balcony and luxury finishings.
USD$ 25,493pp
USD$ 25,493pp