national geographic orion 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. With 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. Our veteran polar expedition team enables you to:

    • See more of the legendary landscapes and habitats
    • Encounter iconic penguins, leopard seals, and marine mammals
    • Kayak among icebergs, Zodiac cruise past resting leopard seals, and hike on the continent with the best ice team on Earth
    • Experience the seldom-seen Antarctic undersea, too––through the efforts of our undersea specialist
    Duration: 13 days
    Passengers: 102 passengers
    Embarkation Point: Santiago, Chile
    Disembarkation Point: Santiago, Chile
    Physical rating: Soft Adventure
    Fly/Cruise: Mandatory extra flight
    Single Supplement: 2.0x twin rate or share options
  • Itinerary
    • Day 1 - Arrival Day & Overnight Hotel in Buenos AIres

      Guests traveling aboard National Geographic Explorer or National Geographic Endurance arrive this morning in cosmopolitan Buenos Aires, set on the Rio de la Plata, and check in to the fine Alvear Art Hotel (or similar, Explorer) or Alvear Icon (or similar, Endurance). 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.

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

      Today we fly by private charter flight to Ushuaia, Argentina. 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.

    • 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 - Disembark in Ushuaia and fly to Buenos Aires.

      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; guests on Orion fly Ushuaia to Santiago.) Please confirm departure and arrival cities with an Expedition Specialist before booking your flights.

    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

    The great Antarctic Safari

    No matter which itinerary you choose to undertake, you are destined to spot a wonderful array of wildlife, including sea elephants and sea lions, Weddell, crabeater and leopard seals, and Minke, killer and humpback whales and the magnificent wandering albatrosses.

    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.

    An iceberg in your whiskey

    Don’t miss your chance for a whiskey or water refreshed by millenary Antarctic ice. While luxury bars in the world’s top cities can double the menu price for adding glacier ice on your whiskey, here it’s quite at hand. What could better than contemplating the latitude you have reached with a noble drink in hand as your expedition cruise heads back to port.

  • 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 5.25.00 pm
  • Gallery
  • Vessel

    NATIONAL GEOGRAPHIC ORION

    Designed and purpose built in Germany in 2003 specifically for expedition travel, National Geographic Orion was created from the outset to explore the far corners of the Earth in complete self-sufficiency. Engineered for maximum comfort and safety, Orion is equipped with the latest technology including large retractable stabilizers, sonar, radar, and an ice-strengthened hull. A shallow draft plus bow and stern thrusters provide the convenience of being able to maneuver close to shore. 14 Zodiacs ensure quick disembarkation and offer the ideal transport for up-close exploration. Best of all, Orion is equipped with a glass-bottom Zodiac that enables remarkably clear, gratifying observations of the undersea for those who prefer to stay dry. National Geographic Orion meets strict specifications for environmental protection and the on board waste management systems meet the stringent Antarctic operational standards enabling us to travel to the most pristine environments. A host of advanced design features and technology ensures sustainable marine environmental practices. The privilege of wildness and the luxury of comfort. National Geographic Orion accommodates 102 guests in 53 cabins, including several with balconies. She is spacious and modern, with a variety of public rooms that offer panoramic views of the passing landscape. Friendly and informal, Orion fosters a welcoming atmosphere where like-minded guests share in exceptional experiences and enrichment.

    Features & Facilities
    • Luxury expedition vessel
    • Affiliated with National Geographic
    • Dining room & Outdoor Cafe
    • Lounge
    • Theatre
    • Observation Lounge & Library
    • Open Bridge
    • Mud room
    • Elevator
    • Sundeck
    • Wellness program
    • Fitness Centre
    • Health Spa
    • Hot Tub
    Key Facts
    Luxury star rating: 6
    Guests #: 102
    Crew #: 75
    Ice Class: E3
    Speed: 15
    Refurbished:
    Technical Specs
    Year built:
    Length: 102m
    Width: 14
    Draft:
    Tonnage: 3984
    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 orion category 1 cabin

Category 01

30 Dec 2019 - 11 Jan 2020
Cabins feature a luminous oval window and configurable beds: two single beds that can be converted to a queen. An armchair, reading lamps, a flat screen TV, two bedside tables, coffee table, desk, and climate controls complete the amenities. Marble bathrooms are generously sized and include a spacious shower stall with a glass door.
USD$ 13,729pp
USD$ 13,729pp
national geographic orion category 2 cabin

Category 02

30 Dec 2019 - 11 Jan 2020
Cabins feature a luminous oval window and configurable beds: two single beds that can be converted to a queen. An armchair, reading lamps, a flat screen TV, bedside table, coffee table, desk, and climate controls complete the amenities. Marble bathrooms are generously sized and include a spacious shower stall with a glass door.
USD$ 14,749pp
USD$ 14,749pp
national geographic orion category 3 cabin

Category 03

30 Dec 2019 - 11 Jan 2020
These suites feature a sitting area with a large window, a sofa, an armchair or two, writing/laptop desk, reading lamps, coffee table, flat screen TV, bedside table, & climate controls. Beds are configurable (call for details). Marble bathrooms include a spacious shower stall with a glass door.
USD$ 16,340pp
USD$ 16,340pp
national geographic orion category 4 cabin

Category 04

30 Dec 2019 - 11 Jan 2020
These suites feature separate sleeping and sitting areas, with a chair and armchair, coffee table, and a two-cushion sofa facing an expansive window. Beds are configurable (call for details). Ample storage, reading lamps, a flat screen TV, and climate controls complete the amenities. Marble bathrooms are generously sized and include a spacious shower stall with a glass door.
USD$ 19,754pp
USD$ 19,754pp
national geographic orion category 1S Single cabin

1S - Superior Single cabin

30 Dec 2019 - 11 Jan 2020
Single cabin, perfect for the decerning single traveller.
USD$ 20,590pp
USD$ 20,590pp
national geographic orion category 5 cabin

Category 05

30 Dec 2019 - 11 Jan 2020
These spacious suites feature open living areas and sliding glass doors opening to a shared French balcony. Beds are configurable (call for details). A separate sitting area with armchairs and a sofa, a writing/laptop desk, coffee table, well-placed reading lamps, a flat screen TV, and climate controls complete the decor. Marble bathrooms are generously sized and include a spacious shower stall with a glass door.
USD$ 22,603pp
USD$ 22,603pp
national geographic orion category 3S Single cabin

3S - Suite with Window

30 Dec 2019 - 11 Jan 2020
Single cabin, perfect for the decerning single traveller.
USD$ 24,507pp
USD$ 24,507pp
national geographic orion category 6 cabin

Category 06

30 Dec 2019 - 11 Jan 2020
These large, elegant suites feature a French balcony, except for #509 which has double windows. Each provides a separate living area with a sofa and two armchairs, coffee table, except for #502, which uniquely offers a ‘soaking tub with a view’ in addition to a shower stall and expansive vanity. All cabins have reading lamps, a flat screen TV, and climate controls. Marble bathrooms are generously sized and include a spacious shower stall with a glass door.
USD$ 26,316pp
USD$ 26,316pp