national geographic explorer luxury south georgia and antarctica cruise

Antarctica, South Georgia and the Falklands - Reverse

  • Overview

    The ultimate Southern Ocean experience, this expedition takes you into majestically spectacular wildness. Not even the vast migrations of Africa can rival the awesomeness of seeing a king penguin colony of tens of thousands individuals stretching as far as the eye can see. Or albatross colonies that fill the windward edges of the remote islands they call home. You’ll have other rare sightings here too: massive, in both senses of the word, herds of elephant seals: and a wandering albatross stretching its 11-foot wings. It’s the impossible beauty of Antarctica exponentially increased by unimaginable numbers of animals. A not-be-missed polar experience, for those with the luxury of time. For most travelers, visiting Antarctica is a once-in-a-lifetime experience. So, for those with the luxury of time, optimizing your time and interest by including South Georgia and the Falklands makes sense. And makes for a genuine experience-of-a-lifetime.

     

    IMPORTANT: This voyage begins in Santiago, Chile and flies to the Falkland Islands where you join the ship. It finishes in Ushuaia with a flight to Buenos Aires, Argentina. 

    Duration: 23 days
    Passengers: 148 passengers
    Embarkation Point: Santiago, Chile
    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 - Arrive Santiago, Chile/Overnight Hotel

      The following itinerary applies for the Nov. 7, 2018 & Nov. 8, 2019 voyages aboard National Geographic Explorer.

      Arrive today in Santiago. We check in to the fine, centrally located Mandarin Oriental (or similar), and have the morning to relax. Santiago is nearly surrounded by the Andes, which form an inspiring backdrop to our afternoon guided overview of this vibrant city. We explore the Plaza de Armas, the main square, and nearby Presidential Palace, enjoying wonderful views from the many hills that dot the city. In the early evening we gather for an informal reception and a drink at the hotel. (Day 2: L)

    • Day 2 - Santiago/Fly to the Falkland Islands: Embarkation Day

      Today we fly by private charter flight to the Falklands, arriving in Mount Pleasant with a transfer to Stanley, the capital. We have time to stroll the photogenic tin-roofed, colonial-style houses of Stanley, seeing the Anglican Cathedral with its organic archway of whale bones before embarking National Geographic Explorer. (B,L,D)

    • Day 3/4 - Falkland Islands

      The Falklands boast the largest albatross colony in the world, irresistible Magellanic penguins in their burrows amid the green tussock grass and Peale's dolphins riding the waves. Stroll the photogenic tin-roofed, Victorian-style houses of Port Stanley. Visit the Anglican Cathedral with its organic archway of whalebones, and the Falkland Islands Museum. (B,L,D)

    • Day 5/6 - At Sea

      Whales beneath, birds above, as you continue on. Our naturalists will prepare us for the exciting days ahead with presentations on the wildlife of South Georgia, and, of course, the inspiring story of Sir Ernest Shackleton and the Endurance. (B,L,D)

    • Day 7/11 - South Georgia Island

      This is the final resting place for explorer Sir Ernest Shackleton and we’ll hoist a toast at his gravesite. Teeming wildlife and breathtaking scenery greet our ship as our Zodiacs make landfall. Vast penguin colonies give you the opportunity to be surrounded by tens of thousands of king penguins! (B,L,D)

    • Day 12/13 - At Sea

      As we voyage, head up to the Bridge to watch for icebergs and observe expert navigation at work as our skilled Captain and officers sail these historic waters. There’ll also be time to enjoy a massage in the wellness center, workout in the gym, and browse in the library. Each day our naturalists offer talks that add depth to your experience.

    • Day 14/19 - Antarctica

      With long hours of daylight, we make the most of our days exploring the Antarctic Peninsula and surrounding islands. Our schedule is flexible, allowing us to take advantage of the unexpected. We’ll sail through the incomparable Lemaire Channel and land on the “White Continent,” exploring via Zodiac, kayak and on foot, and using our arsenal of tools for exploration. (B,L,D)

    • Day 20/21 - At Sea

      You'll awake this morning into your journey across the Drake Passage. Lying between Cape Horn and the Antarctic Peninsula, the Drake holds a unique place in maritime lore. The Drake Passage is unforgettable-a milestone in any adventurer's personal travel history. Your last days at sea will give you one more opportunity to watch for marine life and to reflect on all that you have seen and heard. Enjoy talks from the staff, bringing to summary the colossal scope of this voyage. (B,L,D)

    • Day 22 - 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

    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

    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

    Falkland Islands

    Boasting rugged scenery and excellent wildlife opportunities, including the Black-browed albatross, Elephant seals and a number of penguin species not found in Antarctica.

    Wandering Albatross

    Spectacular in flight and on the ground, with the largest wingspan of any bird on the planet; gracefully and effortlessly glides for thousands of kilometres across the Southern Ocean to their nesting site on South Georgia.

    South Georgia; Wildlife Mecca

    Walk amidst tens of thousands of king penguins on a single beach. Hike in the footsteps of ‘the Boss’, Sir Ernest Shackleton and hear his tale of survival.

  • 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

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

    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 05 at 3.43.41 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
All available dates
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

08 Nov 2019 - 30 Nov 2019
Twin cabin, with private facilities with plenty of luxury finishings. Please note this voyage may have additional charter flight costs.
USD$ 21,352pp
USD$ 21,352pp
national geographic explorer category 2 cabin

2 - Twin Cabin with Window

08 Nov 2019 - 30 Nov 2019
Twin or double cabin, with private facilities with plenty of luxury finishings. Please note this voyage may have additional charter flight costs.
USD$ 22,943pp
USD$ 22,943pp
national geographic explorer category 3 cabin

3 - Twin Cabin with Window

08 Nov 2019 - 30 Nov 2019
Twin or double cabin, with private facilities with plenty of luxury finishings. Please note this voyage may have additional charter flight costs.
USD$ 24,051pp
USD$ 24,051pp
national geographic explorer category 4 cabin

4 - Superior cabin with Window

08 Nov 2019 - 30 Nov 2019
Twin or double cabin, with private facilities with plenty of luxury finishings. Please note this voyage may have additional charter flight costs.
USD$ 25,187pp
USD$ 25,187pp
national geographic explorer category SA Single cabin

SA - Single cabin with Porthole

08 Nov 2019 - 30 Nov 2019
Single cabin, perfect for the decerning solo traveller. Please note this voyage may have additional charter flight costs.
USD$ 28,675pp
USD$ 28,675pp
national geographic explorer category SB Single cabin

SB - Single cabin with Window

08 Nov 2019 - 30 Nov 2019
Single cabin, perfect for the decerning solo traveller. Please note this voyage may have additional charter flight costs.
USD$ 30,056pp
USD$ 30,056pp
national geographic explorer category 5 cabin

5 - Superior cabin with Balcony

08 Nov 2019 - 30 Nov 2019
Superior cabins with Balcony and luxury finishings. Please note this voyage may have additional charter flight costs.
USD$ 31,021pp
USD$ 31,021pp
national geographic explorer category 6 cabin

6 - Suite with Balcony

08 Nov 2019 - 30 Nov 2019
Suite cabin with Balcony and luxury finishings. Please note this voyage may have additional charter flight costs.
USD$ 35,693pp
USD$ 35,693pp
national geographic explorer category 7 cabin

7 - Suite with Balcony

08 Nov 2019 - 30 Nov 2019
The largest suites with Balcony and luxury finishings.
USD$ 41,459pp
USD$ 41,459pp