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ANTARCTICA TRAVEL GUIDE

As adventures go, a trip to Antarctica ranks as one of the greatest. From braving the world’s most infamous sea crossing to spotting vast penguin colonies, there’s no limit to the exhilarating experiences that await on the Great White Continent.

The Antarctic Peninsula is a wildness like nowhere else; it’s here you’ll follow in the footsteps of well-known explorers, witness bright blue glaciers calving dramatically into the sea, watch humpbacks breaching and be left awestruck by the beauty of this untamed landscape. Add activities like polar plunge, stand-up paddleboarding and ice camping, and this really is an adventure of a lifetime.

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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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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.

Find an Antarctica cruise on GoToSea.

Tips on Trips and Expert Picks

Travel tips, vacation ideas and more to make your next vacation stellar.

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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Journey to Antarctica: The White Continent

• Get inspired by the possibilities.
• Build your ideal trip.
• See more of the legendary landscapes and habitats
• Encounter iconic penguins, leopard seals, and marine mammals
• Kayak among icebergs, Zodiac cruise past leopard seals & hike the continent
• Experience the seldom-seen Antarctic undersea
• Adventure Options
• Whale Watching
• Small Ship Cruises
• Wildlife Viewing
• Antarctica Peninsula

Full Itinerary

Day 1: overnight hotel in buenos aires, day 2: fly to ushuaia, argentina | embark ship.

• 1 Breakfast, 1 Lunch, 1 Dinner

Day 3-4: At Sea Crossing the Drake Passage

• 2 Breakfasts, 2 Lunches, 2 Dinners

Day 5-9: Exploring Antarctica

• 5 Breakfasts, 5 Lunches, 5 Dinners

Day 10-11: At Sea

Day 12: disembark ushuaia/fly to buenos aires.

• 1 Breakfast, 1 Lunch

National Geographic Endurance

Buenos aires - hotels, recoleta grand hotel, elevage buenos aires, more buenos aires hotels, dates & prices, my preferred start date.

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

See our general terms and conditions:

• Adventure Life Terms & Conditions

We are an agent for one or more providers on this trip with specific cancellation policies and terms:

• Lindblad Expeditions - Reservation Terms & Conditions - Lindblad Expeditions

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

• 11 Breakfasts, 12 Lunches, 10 Dinners
• 11 Nights Accommodations
• Accommodations as listed
• Ground transportation as listed
• Activities as listed
• Meals as listed
• Access to a 24-7 Emergency line while traveling
• Non-Alcoholic Beverages
• All airport transfers mentioned in the itinerary.
• Use of snorkeling equipment, wet suits, and kayaks (where available)
• Services of the expert expedition team and guest speakers
• Shore excursions, sightseeing, entrance fees, and special access permits
• Taxes, service charges, and tips (except for ship’s crew, at guests’ discretion)
• Travel Insurance
• Personal Expenses
• Flight costs (please request a quote)
• Additional excursions during free time
• Fuel and transportation surcharges (when applicable)
• Buenos Aires Hotel tax (up to $ 2 per person/night) - paid at checkout
• Additional Hotel Nights 
• Private Transfers
• Expedition Extensions 
• Laundry 
• Air transportation (except when indicated in the itinerary, as included)
• Passport, visa, and immigration fees
• Special and unique excursions such as scuba diving, flightseeing, etc. (where offered)
• Alcoholic beverages (alcohol is included on select ships)
• Items of personal nature
• Phone and Internet Service
• Gratuity for ship’s crew, at guests’ discretion (crew tips are included on select ships
• 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
• Air transportation: including charter flights Buenos Aires/Ushuaia (from $ 550 per person), Stanley/Santiago (from $ 710 per person). Miami/Ushuaia/Miami (Economy: $ 1,660 per person) Flight rates are subject to change.

We Love to Talk Travel

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
• Punta Arenas
• Falkland Islands
• Antarctica Adventure Cruises
• Kayaking in Antarctica Tours
• Camping in Antarctica

Favorite Antarctica All Trips

• Falklands, South Georgia and Antarctica: Explorers and Kings
• Antarctica Express Air Cruise
• Antarctic Small Ship Expedition

Why Travel With Adventure Life

Recognized by.

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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Neither Collette Travel Service, Inc., its affiliated entities and its and their employees, shareholders, officers, directors, successors, agents, and assigns (collectively “Collette”), own or operate any person or entity which is to or does provide goods or services for these trips. You agree to be bound by the conditions of carriage for all transportation providers. Collette does not maintain control or operate the personnel, equipment, or operations of these suppliers it uses and as such Collette assumes no responsibility for and cannot be held liable for any personal injury, death, property damage or other loss, accident, delay, inconvenience, or irregularity which may be occasioned by reason of (1) any wrongful, negligent, willful or unauthorized acts or omissions on the part of any of the suppliers or other employees or agents, (2) any defect in or failure of any vehicle, equipment, or instrument owned, operated or otherwise used by any of these suppliers, or (3) any wrongful, willful or negligent act or omission on the part of any other party.

Client shall indemnify and hold harmless Collette Travel Service, Inc., its affiliated entities and its and their employees, agents, shareholders, officers, successors and assigns (collectively “Collette”), from all suits, actions, losses, damages, claims or liability for any personal injury, death, property damage or other loss, accident, delay, inconvenience or irregularity which is occasioned by any negligent acts or omissions of Collette arising out of any goods or services provided for this or these trips.

Additionally, responsibility is not accepted for losses or expenses due to sickness, lack of appropriate medical facilities or practitioners, weather, strikes, theft or other criminal acts, war, terrorism, computer problems, or other such causes. Other risks may arise such as, but not limited to, hazards of traveling in foreign countries including undeveloped areas, the hazards of travel by aircraft, bus, van, train, automobile or other motorized vehicle, differing safety standards, sickness, criminal acts committed by others, allergic reactions, and/or animal encounters.  You are voluntarily participating in the tour and Collette, and as lawful consideration for the agreement to travel with Collette, you agree not to make a claim against Collette, its related companies, officers and employees for injuries, death, or any other claim and agree to release Collette, its related companies, officers and employees from any such claim.  This release is binding on all members of your traveling party, as well as your Estate and heirs and this provision shall be enforceable even after your trip has ended. If you make your own air reservations, Collette is not responsible and shall provide no refund if your flight schedule changes so that you are not able to enjoy the entirety of your tour. All services and accommodations are subject to the laws of the country in which they are provided. Collette reserves the right to make changes in the published itinerary whenever, in their sole judgment, conditions warrant, or if Collette deems it necessary for the comfort, convenience, or safety of the tour. Collette reserves the right to withdraw any tour announced. Collette reserves the right to decline to accept any person as a member of the tour, or to require any participant to withdraw from the tour at any time, when such action is determined by the Tour Manager to be in the best interests of the health, safety, and general welfare of the tour group or of the individual participant. If you are traveling with children, you are solely responsible for their behavior and monitoring them throughout the tour. Neither does Collette accept liability for any carrier’s cancellation penalty incurred by the purchase of a nonrefundable airline or other ticket to the tour departure city and return or otherwise. Baggage and personal effects are the sole responsibility of the owner at all times.

Collette is not responsible, and will not be bound by, representations made by third party representatives, travel agents, unaffiliated websites, or any other party.

Participants may be photographed for the promotional purposes of Collette. In addition, any comments that you submit as a review or your social media posts may be used for Collette’s promotional purposes.

Payment of the deposit to Collette constitutes acceptance of these terms and conditions. Collette reserves the right to modify these terms and conditions at any time, without notice.

FORUM SELECTION AND CHOICE OF LAW THIS AGREEMENT SHALL BE GOVERNED AND INTERPRETED PURSUANT TO THE LAWS OF THE STATE OF RHODE ISLAND BY MUTUAL AGREEMENT OF THE PARTIES HERETO AND THE FEDERAL AND STATE COURTS IN RHODE ISLAND SHALL HAVE EXCLUSIVE AND SOLE JURISDICTION OVER ANY DISPUTE, CONTROVERSY OR SUIT ARISING RELATIVE TO THIS AGREEMENT.

DISPUTES/CLASS ACTION WAIVER

YOU AGREE THAT YOU WILL ONLY BRING CLAIMS AGAINST COLLETTE IN YOUR INDIVIDUAL CAPACITY AND NOT AS A PLAINTIFF OR CLASS MEMBER IN ANY PURPORTED CLASS ACTION OR REPRESENTATIVE PROCEEDING. COLLETTE SHALL NOT IN ANY CASE BE LIABLE FOR OTHER THAN COMPENSATORY DAMAGES, AND YOUR PAYMENT OF A DEPOSIT ON A TOUR MEANS THAT YOU AGREE TO THESE CONDITIONS OF SALE AND EXPRESSLY WAIVE ANY RIGHT TO PUNITIVE DAMAGES.

ERRORS AND OMISSIONS

While every effort is made to ensure the accuracy of information in our brochures, on our website or communicated by our reservation staff, errors or omissions are possible and Collette is not responsible for such error. If a mistake is made in billing, we reserve the right to correct the invoice and you will be responsible for proper payment.

SEVERABILITY

In the event that any clause in this agreement is determined to be invalid, the remaining provisions are valid and enforceable. The invalid provision shall be replaced by Collette by a clause as similar as practicable.

Consumer Protection Plans

Collette is a member of the following organizations: the National Tour Association, the United States Tour Operators Association, the Alliance of Canadian Travel Associations, the Travel Industry Council of Ontario, and the Association of British Travel Agents. Some of these associations operate a consumer protection plan to cover deposits placed with any tour operator member. 

Collette is proud to be a member of USTOA (United States Tour Operators Association), an association that represents the tour operator industry. The USTOA logo on our brochures signifies that Collette is a member in good standing and is backed by their $1 Million Travelers Assistance Program. Collette, as an Active Member of USTOA, is required to post $1 million with USTOA to be used to reimburse, in accordance with the terms and conditions of the USTOA Travelers Assistance Program, the advance payments of Collette customers in the unlikely event of Collette’s bankruptcy, insolvency or cessation of business. Further, you should understand that the $1 million posted by Collette may be sufficient to provide only a partial recovery of the advance payments received by Collette.  Complete details of the USTOA Travelers Assistance Program may be obtained by email to [email protected] or by visiting their website at www.USTOA.com . Collette is pleased to give this additional protection to our clients.

Collette’s Travel Protection Plan

For anyone who traveled prior to December 31, 2022 and purchased a Travel Protection Plan, click here for plan details:  www.tripmate.com/wpF430C For anyone traveling on or after January 1, 2023, click here for plan details:  https://policy.travelexinsurance.com/365ZA-0123

The following is an outline of the Non-Insurance Pre-Departure Cancellation Fee Waiver, Insurance Benefits and non-insurance assistance services that make up the Travel Protection Plan.

Part A Waiver Only provided by Collette Travel Service, Inc.: The Pre-Departure Cancellation Fee Waiver is provided by Collette, is not an insurance benefit and is not underwritten by Zurich American Insurance Company. Payment of a per person Travel Protection Plan fee guarantees a full refund of all payments (including deposit), except the Travel Protection Plan fee itself, made to Collette for travel arrangements in case of cancellation of your travel plans for any reason prior to the day of departure. The Cancellation Fee Waiver only reimburses airline tickets you have purchased from Collette.

Exception: If you originally purchased Instant Purchase airline tickets, this Part A Travel Protection Plan does not provide a refund for the airline tickets, taxes or fees, in the event of a cancellation. This air ticket may be covered by Collette’s Travel Protection Plan under Part B if you cancel your trip for covered reasons (see Part B for more details).

The Part A Waiver portion of Collette’s Travel Protection Plan protects you from penalties in the event you have a need to cancel your entire inclusive tour package up to the day prior to departure. The Part A Waiver portion of the Travel Protection Plan does not indemnify you from penalties if you choose to cancel partial tour components or air. If you choose to partially cancel your tour, you will be responsible for a revision fee as well as any penalties that are incurred at the time of the cancellation.

For Residents of MN, MO, NY and WA Only: The Pre-Departure Cancellation Fee Waiver (Part A) can be purchased separately without the purchase of the Travel Protection Plan. Contact Collette at 1-800-832-4656 in order to purchase the Pre-Departure Cancellation Fee Waiver separately.

Collette’s Part A Waiver portion of the Travel Protection Plan does not reimburse any single supplement charges which arise from an individual’s traveling companion electing to cancel for any reason prior to departure. In this case, the single supplement will be deducted from the refund of the person who cancels. (However, the Part B Benefits referenced below include a single supplement benefit for certain covered reasons, as detailed in Part B.) Division of this charge between the two passengers involved is solely their responsibility. If insufficient funds are deducted from the canceling client, the traveling client will be charged the remaining portion of the single supplement.

Your Payment for the Travel Protection Plan (if chosen) must be received by Collette with your deposit. The fee is nonrefundable, nontransferable and valid for each applicant only.

Collette can assume no responsibility for and cannot be held liable for any wrongful, negligent or unauthorized acts or omissions of any travel agent or travel agency other than that of Collette Travel Service, Inc. itself, and its own employees. 

Where to Present Part A Claims

To request a refund under the Part A Pre-Departure Cancellation Fee Waiver portion of the Travel Protection Plan, please call Collette and send any unused airline tickets to:

Collette ATTN: Customer Service Department 162 Middle Street, Pawtucket, RI 02860

If cancellation occurs prior to departure, contact the Collette Reservations Department. When a client cancels prior to departure, any refunds are processed through the booking agent.

The following is an outline of the Non-Insurance Travel Assistance Services and Insurance Benefits provided in Part B.

Part B Insurance Benefits are provided by Zurich American Insurance Company: On tour, insurance benefits can be provided if you: must interrupt your trip or return home early for a covered reason; incur medical expenses for a covered sickness or injury; need to be evacuated due to covered medical reason; suffer a baggage loss or delay of more than 24 hours; are delayed on tour for 12 hours or more for a covered reason.

*This benefit is only applicable to Instant Purchase air tickets and any single supplement penalties you are assessed if your Family Member or Traveling Companion has his/her Trip Canceled. This does not cover any other land, air or water Travel Arrangements.

PART B Insurance Benefit Exclusions & Limitations

Unless otherwise stated in the plan, this plan will not pay for any loss arising directly or indirectly out of, or as a result of, or from, or that occur to, or are as a result of the actions of, the Insured or the Insured's Family Member, or Traveling Companion, or Business Partner for the following:  

1. suicide, attempted suicide, or intentionally self-inflicted injury, while sane or insane (while sane in CO and MO); 2. mental, nervous, or psychological disorders; 3. being under the influence of drugs or intoxicants, unless prescribed by a Physician; 4. Normal Pregnancy, resulting childbirth, and elective abortion; 5. participation as a professional in athletics while on a Covered Trip; 6. Participation in organized amateur or interscholastic athletic or sports competition or related practice events; 7. riding or driving in any motor competition; 8. off-road driving, whether as a driver or as a passenger; 9. declared or undeclared war, or any act of war; 10. civil disorder; 11. service in the armed forces of any country; 12. Nuclear reaction, radiation or radioactive contamination; 13. operating or learning to operate any aircraft, as pilot or crew; 14. mountain climbing, bungee jumping, snow skiing, skydiving, Parachuting, free falling, cliff diving, B.A.S.E. or base jumping, hang gliding, parasailing, travel on any air supported device other than on a regularly scheduled airline or air charter company, or extreme sports; 15. mountaineering where ropes or guides are commonly used including ascending and descending a mountain requiring specialized equipment, including but not limited to anchors, bolts, carabineers, crampons, lead/top-rope anchoring equipment and pick-axes; 16. scuba diving if the depth of the water exceeds 75 feet; 17. The Insured’s commission of or attempt to commit a felony; 18. elective medical or holistic treatment or procedures; 19. Failure of any tour operator, Common Carrier, other travel supplier, person or agency to provide the bargained-for travel arrangements/services; 20. a loss that results from a sickness, disease, or other condition, event or circumstance, that occurs at a time when this Policy is not in effect for the Insured; 21. Epidemic or Pandemic; 22. a diagnosed sickness (if insurance is purchased after such diagnosis) from which no recovery is expected and that only palliative treatment is provided and that carries a prognosis of death within 12 months of the  effective date of the applicable coverage under this Policy; 23. sickness, injury or death if the plan is purchased after entering a hospice facility or receiving hospice treatment; 24. any Trip taken outside the advice of a Physician; 25. or a Pre-Existing Condition including death that results therefrom (within the stated lookback period within your insurance policy. Does not apply to the Emergency Medical Evacuation and Repatriation benefit.) Additionally, this plan will not pay for any loss arising directly or indirectly out of, or as a result of, or from, or that occur to, or are as a result of the actions of, the following that occur to the Insured: any amount paid or payable under any Worker's Compensation, disability benefit or similar law; a loss or damage caused by detention, confiscation or destruction by customs, or; medical treatment during a Covered Trip, or arising from a Covered Trip undertaken for the purpose or intent of securing medical treatment. The following additional exclusion applies to Accidental Death and Dismemberment Benefits: We will not pay for loss caused by or resulting from sickness of any kind.   

Excess Insurance Limitation: The insurance provided by this Plan shall be in excess of all other valid and collectible Insurance or indemnity.

The Part B Insurance Benefits are underwritten by: Zurich American Insurance Company, a New York domiciled company with its principal place of business at 1299 Zurich Way, Schaumburg, IL 60196 (NAIC # 16535).

Non-Insurance Services

Non-Insurance Services are not insurance benefits underwritten by Zurich American Insurance Company. Travel Assist Services are provided by: Zurich Travel Assist 

INFORMATION YOU NEED TO KNOW:

This is intended as a general description of certain types of insurance and services available to qualified customers through the companies of Zurich in North America, provided solely for informational purposes.  Nothing herein should be construed as a solicitation, offer, advice, recommendation, or any other service with regard to any type of insurance product underwritten by individual member companies of Zurich in North America, including Zurich American Insurance Company, 1299 Zurich Way, Schaumburg, IL 60196. Your policy is the contract that specifically and fully describes your coverage, terms and conditions. The description of the policy provisions gives a broad overview of coverages and does not revise or amend the policy. Coverages and rates are subject to individual insured meeting our underwriting qualifications and product availability in applicable states. If you have questions about coverage available under our plans, please review the policy found at https://policy.travelexinsurance.com/365ZA-0123 or contact us. Travelex Insurance Services Inc. 810 N 96th Street, Suite 300, Omaha, NE 68114. Toll Free 844.246.8481. Email: [email protected]. Consumers in California may also contact: California Department of Insurance Hotline 800.927.4357 or 213.897.8921. Travelex Insurance Services, Inc. CA Agency License #0D10209. Consumers in Maryland may contact: Maryland Insurance Administration 800.492.6116 or 410.468.2340. Insurance coverages underwritten by individual member companies of Zurich in North America, including Zurich American Insurance Company (NAIC # 16535).    Any inquiry regarding claims may be directed to Zurich Travel Assist at [email protected], P.O. Box 968019, Schaumburg, IL 60196-8019; 1-888-700-0925. Inquiries regarding new, existing or denied claims and any other claims questions may also be directed to this address.  

Travel Retailers Disclaimer: The purchase of this product is not required in order to purchase any other travel product or service. Your travel retailer might not be licensed to sell travel insurance and will only be able to provide general information about the product. An unlicensed travel retailer may not answer questions about the terms and conditions of the insurance offered and may not evaluate the adequacy of your existing insurance coverage. The products being offered provide insurance coverage that only applies during your covered trip. You may have insurance coverage from other sources that provide similar benefits but may be subject to different restrictions depending upon the coverage. You may wish to compare the terms of the travel policy offered through Travelex with any existing life, health, home and automobile insurance policies you may have. If you have questions about your coverage under your existing insurance policies, contact your insurer or insurance agent or broker.

Collette’s Travel Protection Plan Pricing (per person)

The cost charged is for the full Travel Protection Plan, which includes a Pre-Departure Cancellation Fee Waiver Provided By Collette Travel Service, Inc., insurance benefits underwritten by Zurich American Insurance Company, as well as non-insurance assistance services provided by Zurich Travel Assist and Travelex. Individuals looking to obtain additional information regarding the features and pricing of each travel plan component, please contact Travelex.

Land Only Clients:

• $149 adult/$149 child for all domestic escorted tours under 6 days
• $299 adult/$199 child for all domestic escorted tours of 6 days or more
• $399 adult/$249 child for all international tours (not otherwise listed below)
• $449 adult/$299 child for all Canadian Rockies train tours
• $499 adult/$349 child for all cruises, Australia, New Zealand, Africa, South Africa & Egypt tours
• $499 adult/$349 child for Galapagos tours
• $949 adult/$499 child for Antarctica tours

When purchasing pre- and post-night accommodations, including optional extensions, the number of days will be added to the total number of tour days, and may subsequently alter your Travel Protection Plan cost. Please confirm with your reservation agent at time of booking.

Air-Inclusive Clients (Collette Flex Airfare is purchased through Collette)

• $199 adult/child for all domestic tours under 6 days
• $349 adult/child for all domestic tours of 6 days or more
• $449 adult/child for all international tours (not otherwise listed below)
• $499 adult/child for all Canadian Rockies train tours
• $599 adult/child for all cruises, Australia, New Zealand, Africa, South Africa & Egypt tours
• $599 adult/child for Galapagos tours
• $999 adult/child for Antarctica tours

Collette’s Travel Protection Plan for air inclusive clients can only be purchased by individuals who have purchased Collette Flex Airfare or Instant Purchase air through Collette. Instant Purchase air and its associated taxes, fees and surcharges require full payment at time of reservation and are 100% nonrefundable. This air ticket may be covered by Collette’s Travel Protection Plan under Part B if you cancel your trip for covered reasons. Tickets may only be changed for a fee up to $300 plus any difference in airfare for travel in the following 12 months; specific fees and policies may vary by airline.

To review full plan details online, go to https://policy.travelexinsurance.com/365ZA-0123 .

Private Touring Information

Land rates are per person, double occupancy, unless otherwise noted. Land rates are guaranteed at time of deposit. Tiered pricing for private tours is based on a minimum tier of 10 guests. All names and deposits are required at time of booking. Private tour reservations cannot be converted to published standard packages at standard prices. Additional guests may be added later subject to availability. If your party size increases or decreases to the next tier level the surcharge will be adjusted accordingly.

Private touring is not available on the following tour products: Ocean & River Cruises, Canadian Rockies tours, National Parks itineraries, Special Event tours inclusive of all Oberammergau 2022 Departures, Albuquerque Balloon Fiesta, Edinburgh Military Tattoo.

• A $1000 non-refundable deposit is due with your reservation.
• A $1300 non-refundable deposit is due with your air inclusive reservation.
• If you have selected Instant Purchase Air, the deposit required is the full cost of the airfare plus a $1000 deposit, all of which is non-refundable

Should you decide to purchase our per-person Travel Protection Plan, you must do so at the time of booking. This Plan includes the Pre-Departure Cancellation Fee Waiver which protects you from penalties in the event you have to cancel your entire tour package for any reason up to the day prior to departure (see Part A for more details). If you originally purchased Instant Purchase airline tickets, Part B of the Travel Protection Plan reimburses airline tickets, taxes, or fees in the event of a cancellation for a covered reason (see Part B for more details).

Unless otherwise noted, the balance is due 90 days before departure on all tours, except cruises and trains. Payment may be made by charging to clients’ Mastercard, Visa, American Express, or Discover (card imprint and signature required) or by sending a check or money order. All land rates are guaranteed upon deposit. Payment may also be made online at https://reservations.gocollette.com/payment.aspx .

Cancellations of confirmed bookings and transfers to new travel dates both result in penalties and fees assessed by travel suppliers. If you need to transfer or cancel for any reason prior to tour departure, the following cancellation fees will be assessed on your land or cruise product. If the number of guests in the private group changes prior to final payment the tour price for all passengers will be adjusted accordingly. Once all final payments are made the guest canceling would be responsible for their own cancellation fees plus the increased cost to the remaining passengers. If a cancelation results in a passenger in a single room a single room supplemental charge will be deducted from any refund due to the canceling passenger. Air is 100% nonrefundable once paid in full. If canceled prior to being paid in full, the following cancellation fees will also apply to air.

• More than 90 days prior to departure: a nonrefundable deposit will be retained.
• 90 - 61 days prior to departure: 30% of land price
• 60 - 31 day prior to departure: 50% of land price
• 30 - Day of departure and after: 100% of land price

* Instant Purchase air and its associated taxes, fees and surcharges are 100% nonrefundable at time of reservation.

For your convenience, we offer airfare for purchase with all tour packages. If you purchase an air-inclusive program, your airfare will be quoted inclusive of all fuel, taxes and fees. Your rates are subject to change until paid in full. Seats are limited and may not be available on every flight or departure date.

Instant Purchase Airfare includes roundtrip airport/hotel transfers (excluding pre- or post-days and extensions). Instant Purchase airfare requires full payment at the time of booking. If you purchase the Travel Protection Plan, the Instant Purchase airfare may be reimbursed, if you cancel your trip for a covered reason (see Part B for more details). Tickets will be issued immediately and once issued are nonrefundable, and may only be changed for a fee up to $300 plus any difference in airfare for travel in the following 12 months; specific fees and policies may vary by airline. These tickets include an administration fee and roundtrip airport-to-hotel transfers, of which both hold no airline reissue value. Once issued, there can be no fluctuation in price due to an increase in government taxes or in airline fuel surcharges. Therefore, any such fees or airport-to-hotel transfers are not refundable under any circumstances.

You must report any disability requiring special attention to Collette at the time the reservation is made. *Collette will make reasonable efforts to accommodate the special needs of tour participants. Such participants, however, should be aware that the Americans with Disabilities Act is inapplicable outside of the United States and facilities outside the United States for disabled individuals are limited. It is strongly recommended that persons requiring assistance be accompanied by a companion who is capable of and totally responsible for providing the assistance. Neither Collette nor its personnel, nor its suppliers, may physically lift or assist clients into transportation vehicles. If a traveler thinks he or she might need assistance during a trip, he or she should call Collette to determine what assistance might reasonably be given. Collette cannot provide special individual assistance to tour members with special needs for walking, dining or other routine activities.

Museum visits and personal shopping time may be disrupted due to unforeseen circumstances or many religious, state and local holidays observed throughout the world.

Maps shown on tour pages are current at the time of printing and may not reflect actual tour routing should the tour change. Photos shown on tour pages are reflective of the area(s) visited, but may not be included in the actual tour itinerary and the conditions you experience may be different than depicted in the photograph(s).

Although every effort is made to handle passengers’ luggage as carefully as possible, Collette is not responsible for and does not assume liability or accept claims for loss of or damage to luggage due to breakage, theft or wear and tear through hotel and group carrier handling. It is recommended for your own self-interest and protection that you have adequate insurance to cover these eventualities.

There are limitations by coach and air carrier as to the number and size of bags which can be carried onboard and in bulk storage. Be sure to ask your travel professional about such restrictions before departing for your tour.

All rates published are per person as indicated and are based on double occupancy when only one rate is shown. Reservations will be accepted subject to availability at the time of request and will be considered confirmed only upon receipt of a minimum deposit. Child land rates are available and are valid for ages 5-12, sharing a room with two full-paying adults.

Collette monitors security situations around the world as well as government travel advisories. Conditions may require Collette to change or even cancel trips. You accept the risks involved in travel, both foreign and domestic, and accept responsibility for your own travel decisions. Guests may be required to review and sign a participation agreement prior to engaging in certain activities on the trip.

Additionally, responsibility is not accepted for losses or expenses due to sickness, lack of appropriate medical facilities or practitioners, weather, strikes, theft or other criminal acts, war, terrorism, computer problems, or other such causes. Other risks may arise such as, but not limited to, hazards of traveling in foreign countries including undeveloped areas, the hazards of travel by aircraft, bus, van, train, automobile or other motorized vehicle, differing safety standards, sickness, criminal acts committed by others, allergic reactions, and/or animal encounters. You are voluntarily participating in the tour and Collette, and as lawful consideration for the agreement to travel with Collette, you agree not to make a claim against Collette, its related companies, officers and employees for injuries, death, or any other claim and agree to release Collette, its related companies, officers and employees from any such claim. This release is binding on all members of your traveling party, as well as your Estate and heirs and this provision shall be enforceable even after your trip has ended. If you make your own air reservations, Collette is not responsible and shall provide no refund if your flight schedule changes so that you are not able to enjoy the entirety of your tour. All services and accommodations are subject to the laws of the country in which they are provided. Collette reserves the right to make changes in the published itinerary whenever, in their sole judgment, conditions warrant, or if Collette deems it necessary for the comfort, convenience, or safety of the tour. Collette reserves the right to withdraw any tour announced. Collette reserves the right to decline to accept any person as a member of the tour, or to require any participant to withdraw from the tour at any time, when such action is determined by the Tour Manager to be in the best interests of the health, safety, and general welfare of the tour group or of the individual participant. If you are traveling with children, you are solely responsible for their behavior and monitoring them throughout the tour. Neither does Collette accept liability for any carrier’s cancellation penalty incurred by the purchase of a nonrefundable airline or other ticket to the tour departure city and return or otherwise. Baggage and personal effects are the sole responsibility of the owner at all times.

Collette is a member of the following organizations: the National Tour Association, the United States Tour Operators Association, the Alliance of Canadian Travel Associations, the Travel Industry Council of Ontario, and the Association of British Travel Agents. Some of these associations operate a consumer protection plan to cover deposits placed with any tour operator member.

Collette is proud to be a member of USTOA (United States Tour Operators Association), an association that represents the tour operator industry. The USTOA logo on our brochures signifies that Collette is a member in good standing and is backed by their $1 Million Travelers Assistance Program. Collette, as an Active Member of USTOA, is required to post $1 million with USTOA to be used to reimburse, in accordance with the terms and conditions of the USTOA Travelers Assistance Program, the advance payments of Collette customers in the unlikely event of Collette’s bankruptcy, insolvency or cessation of business. Further, you should understand that the $1 million posted by Collette may be sufficient to provide only a partial recovery of the advance payments received by Collette. Complete details of the USTOA Travelers Assistance Program may be obtained by email to [email protected] or by visiting their website at www.USTOA.com . Collette is pleased to give this additional protection to our clients.

Part A Waiver Only provided by Collette Travel Service, Inc.:  The Pre-Departure Cancellation Fee Waiver is provided by Collette, is not an insurance benefit and is not underwritten by Zurich American Insurance Company. Payment of a per person Travel Protection Plan fee guarantees a full refund of all payments (including deposit), except the Travel Protection Plan fee itself, made to Collette for travel arrangements in case of cancellation of your travel plans for any reason prior to the day of departure. The Cancellation Fee Waiver only reimburses airline tickets you have purchased from Collette.

Collette’s Part A Waiver portion of the Travel Protection Plan  does not reimburse any single supplement charges which arise from an individual’s traveling companion electing to cancel for any reason prior to departure. In this case, the single supplement will be deducted from the refund of the person who cancels. (However, the Part B Benefits referenced below include a single supplement benefit for certain covered reasons, as detailed in Part B.) Division of this charge between the two passengers involved is solely their responsibility. If insufficient funds are deducted from the canceling client, the traveling client will be charged the remaining portion of the single supplement.

The following is an outline of the Non-Insurance Travel Assistance Services and Insurance Benefits provided in Part B. 

Part B Insurance Benefits are provided by Zurich American Insurance Company:  On tour, insurance benefits can be provided if you: must interrupt your trip or return home early for a covered reason; incur medical expenses for a covered sickness or injury; need to be evacuated due to covered medical reason; suffer a baggage loss or delay of more than 24 hours; are delayed on tour for 12 hours or more for a covered reason.

This benefit is only applicable to Instant Purchase air tickets and any single supplement penalties you are assessed if your Family Member or Traveling Companion has his/her Trip Canceled. This does not cover any other land, air or water Travel Arrangements.

Unless otherwise stated in the plan, this plan will not pay for any loss arising directly or indirectly out of, or as a result of, or from, or that occur to, or are as a result of the actions of, the Insured or the Insured's Family Member, or Traveling Companion, or Business Partner for the following:   

1. suicide, attempted suicide, or intentionally self-inflicted injury, while sane or insane (while sane in CO and MO); 2. mental, nervous, or psychological disorders; 3. being under the influence of drugs or intoxicants, unless prescribed by a Physician; 4. Normal Pregnancy, resulting childbirth, and elective abortion; 5. participation as a professional in athletics while on a Covered Trip; 6. Participation in organized amateur or interscholastic athletic or sports competition or related practice events; 7. riding or driving in any motor competition; 8. off-road driving, whether as a driver or as a passenger; 9. declared or undeclared war, or any act of war; 10. civil disorder; 11. service in the armed forces of any country; 12. Nuclear reaction, radiation or radioactive contamination; 13. operating or learning to operate any aircraft, as pilot or crew; 14. mountain climbing, bungee jumping, snow skiing, skydiving, Parachuting, free falling, cliff diving, B.A.S.E. or base jumping, hang gliding, parasailing, travel on any air supported device other than on a regularly scheduled airline or air charter company, or extreme sports; 15. mountaineering where ropes or guides are commonly used including ascending and descending a mountain requiring specialized equipment, including but not limited to anchors, bolts, carabineers, crampons, lead/top-rope anchoring equipment and pick-axes; 16. scuba diving if the depth of the water exceeds 75 feet; 17. The Insured’s commission of or attempt to commit a felony; 18. elective medical or holistic treatment or procedures; 19. Failure of any tour operator, Common Carrier, other travel supplier, person or agency to provide the bargained-for travel arrangements/services; 20. a loss that results from a sickness, disease, or other condition, event or circumstance, that occurs at a time when this Policy is not in effect for the Insured; 21. Epidemic or Pandemic; 22. a diagnosed sickness (if insurance is purchased after such diagnosis) from which no recovery is expected and that only palliative treatment is provided and that carries a prognosis of death within 12 months of the  effective date of the applicable coverage under this Policy; 23. sickness, injury or death if the plan is purchased after entering a hospice facility or receiving hospice treatment; 24. any Trip taken outside the advice of a Physician; 25. or a Pre-Existing Condition including death that results therefrom (within the stated lookback period within your insurance policy. Does not apply to the Emergency Medical Evacuation and Repatriation benefit.) Additionally, this plan will not pay for any loss arising directly or indirectly out of, or as a result of, or from, or that occur to, or are as a result of the actions of, the following that occur to the Insured: any amount paid or payable under any Worker's Compensation, disability benefit or similar law; a loss or damage caused by detention, confiscation or destruction by customs, or; medical treatment during a Covered Trip, or arising from a Covered Trip undertaken for the purpose or intent of securing medical treatment. The following additional exclusion applies to Accidental Death and Dismemberment Benefits: We will not pay for loss caused by or resulting from sickness of any kind.    

Excess Insurance Limitation:  The insurance provided by this Plan shall be in excess of all other valid and collectible Insurance or indemnity.

Zurich American Insurance Company, a New York domiciled company with its principal place of business at 1299 Zurich Way, Schaumburg, IL 60196 (NAIC # 16535).

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National Geographic Antarctica, South Georgia & The Falklands

• Modified: Jan 11, Feb 20 & Feb 07
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Throughout this National Geographic Antarctica, South Georgia & The Falklands voyage, learn from a truly expert staff, whose decades of exploring Antarctica and the surrounding regions have revealed important landing sites beyond the Antarctic Peninsula. Explore the wildlife-rich Falkland Islands and South Georgia, perhaps the ultimate destination for jaw-dropping scenery. Witness boundless wildlife on the Antarctic Peninsula and understand the captivating history of Ernest Shackleton and his crew. Walk wild beaches as tens of thousands of gentoo, rockhopper and king penguins go about their busy lives, calling for mates and flashing their bright colors in their courtship rituals. Take a rugged hike across ice tundras and float by Zodiac and kayak between icebergs and whales. 

The National Geographic Antarctica, South Georgia & The Falklands expedition covers a lengthy itinerary aboard small expedition ships, with kayaking included in the cost—a rare inclusion for polar expeditions! The main itinerary operates clockwise, visiting the Falkland Islands before South Georgia and Antarctica, sailing round-trip from Ushuaia, Argentina. Select modified departures operate in reverse (counterclockwise, starting with Antarctica). Departures aboard the National Geographic Endurance and the National Geographic Explorer connect via charter flights originating from, and finishing back in, Buenos Aires, Argentina. Departures aboard the National Geographic Resolution begin and end with charter flights originating from, and returning back to, Santiago, Chile.

The 148-guest Nat Geo Explorer , 126-guest Nat Geo Endurance and 126-guest Nat Geo Resolution act as floating basecamps during the voyage. All three small expedition ships are technologically advanced, fully stabilized and equipped with a full set of exploration tools, including an ROV and enough kayaks and Zodiacs to send all guests out exploring at the same time. Additionally, select cabins on each vessel offer private balconies for special moments taking in the awe-inspiring wilderness. Not to mention the bar tab is included for all passengers. The National Geographic Explorer boasts a top speed of 18 knots, making her one of the fastest ships plying polar waters. The new, purpose-built sister ships National Geographic Endurance and National Geographic Resolution venture deeper, paired with state-of-the-art educational equipment and highly qualified guides, for an in-depth intellectual and truly exploratory experience that make them ideal candidates for luxury Antarctica cruises .

Exploring Antarctica, South Georgia & Falkland Islands in such a comprehensive voyage by expedition ship will affect the way you tell stories about travel and wildlife adventures for years to come. Call the Antarctica experts at AdventureSmith Explorations to discuss your next Antarctica expedition cruise.

Read on for details about this trip, or learn more about AdventureSmith’s Antarctica cruises and South Georgia cruises .

National Geographic Antarctica, South Georgia & The Falklands Itinerary

Most departures follow the main itinerary clockwise, visiting the Falkland Islands before South Georgia and Antarctica, sailing round-trip from Ushuaia, Argentina.

NG Explorer Departures: Arrive in Buenos Aires and transfer to the Alvear Art Hotel (or similar), while Endurance guests transfer to the Alvear Icon (or similar), before seeing the city’s Beaux-Arts palaces and parks. Visit Recoleta—the final resting place of Argentina’s iconic first lady, Eva Perón—and enjoy a private visit to El Zanjon de Granados, one of the city’s premier museums.

NG Endurance Departures: Arrive in Buenos Aires and transfer to the Alvear Icon (or similar), before seeing the city’s Beaux-Arts palaces and parks. Visit Recoleta—the final resting place of Argentina’s iconic first lady, Eva Perón—and enjoy a private visit to El Zanjon de Granados, one of the city’s premier museums.

NG Resolution Departures: Arrive in Santiago and transfer to the Ritz-Carlton, Santiago (or similar) before a guided overview of this vibrant city backed by the inspiring Andes. Discover sites like the Plaza de Armas and get a feel for the mix of old and new that makes this city so great. In the early evening, gather for an informal reception and a drink at the hotel.

Alvear Art/Icon Hotel, Buenos Aires (or similar); Ritz-Carlton, Santiago (or similar)

Today fly south to Ushuaia, the southernmost city in the world, where you meet your ship. Ushuaia’s spectacular setting, between the jagged peaks of the Darwin Range and the protected waters of the Beagle Channel, makes it an appropriately wild place to begin your journey to the White Continent and a great destination in its own right. While you’re there, visit Tierra del Fuego National Park. Lunch will be served onboard a private catamaran while cruising the Beagle Channel, where you’ll be on the lookout for huge South American sea lions and birds like imperial cormorants.

National Geographic Endurance, National Geographic Explorer, National Geographic Resolution

breakfast, lunch, dinner

Settle into shipboard life as you sail to the Falkland Islands. Keep a lookout for albatross that glide alongside the ship.

Everything about expedition travel seems to come together in the western Falkland Islands. Where else can you land on a beach tucked into a rocky cove, hike out across a rolling green pasture and suddenly find yourself at the crest of a sea cliff looking out over the South Atlantic surf? Just a few steps further and you’re standing at the edge of a breeding colony of black-browed albatross, so close that you can hear the wind on their wings as they swoop in to land beside you. Check out the thousands of irresistible gentoo, rockhopper and Magellanic penguins that congregate here, along with fur seals.

Stanley, the bright, pretty capital of the Falkland Islands, is a wonderfully unexpected place: a charming outpost of British culture tucked into a small bay on the shore of these windswept islands in the far South Atlantic. Many Falkland Islanders still live in very traditional ways, and you’ll have a chance to visit a small farm to see some expert sheep shearing and learn about the best techniques for cutting blocks of peat for the fire. The rocky hills and white sand beaches outside town offer some excellent hikes, and afterward, a cup of tea or a pint at the local tavern goes down very nicely.

With whales beneath and birds above, continue toward South Georgia Island. Your naturalists will prepare you 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 .

Simply put, there is nowhere else in the world like South Georgia. King penguins, the second largest species in the world, are unquestionably the most iconic wildlife of South Georgia. Exact numbers are not known, but the largest single colony on the island may have as many as 500,000 of these amazing birds nesting together on a single two-mile-long beach.

Explore the spectacular coastline of South Georgia Island. In keeping with the nature of an expedition, your schedule is flexible with opportunities for walking, hiking, kayaking and Zodiac excursions. Sailing along the coast, the plan is activities every day including visits to Grytviken—the final resting place of Shackleton—and Stromness Harbor, where Ernest Shackleton, Tom Crean and Frank Worsley finally reached aid at a whaling station.

The island is also home to huge elephant seals and thousands of king penguins. South Georgia is sometimes called “the Serengeti of the Southern Ocean,” but even that description seems inadequate; this lonely island is unique in the world, so rich and so beautiful that it defies any comparison.

As you voyage, 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. There’ll also be time to enjoy a massage in the wellness center, work out in the gym and browse in the library. Each day your naturalists offer talks that add depth to your experience.

With long hours of daylight at this time of year, enjoy ample opportunities to explore. Your schedule is flexible, allowing you to take advantage of the unexpected. 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; walk amid thousands of Adélie and gentoo penguins; or 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 your experiences.

This 500-mile-wide strait between the Antarctic Peninsula and South America is one of the most famous bodies of water in the world. Sometimes ferocious, sometimes flat calm, the Drake is always a fascinating place in its own right. This part of the journey is your best opportunity to see gorgeous seabirds like the wandering albatross, and you might be lucky enough to encounter orca whales or rare species of dolphins. Visit the Bridge (a great place to spot wildlife), have a relaxing massage, attend a talk about the biology of the penguins you’ve just seen, or settle into a comfy chair in the observation lounge to look out over the waves and reflect on your incredible journey. Toast your epic voyage at a festive farewell dinner.

Disembark in Ushuaia. Fly by private charter flight to Buenos Aires (NG Explorer, NG Endurance) or Santiago (NG Resolution) and connect with your flight home.

Expedition parka to keep; all accommodations; meals indicated; excursions; services of expedition leader, naturalist staff and expert guides; 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 Ushuaia and Buenos Aires/Santiago (inquire for pricing); immigration fees; air transportation; extensions; meals not indicated; reserve wines & 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

For expeditions booked prior to May 1, 2023: Please refer to your invoice for your payment and cancellation terms.

For expeditions booked after May 1, 2023: 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, South Georgia & The Falklands cruise begins and ends in either Buenos Aires, Argentina (EZE) for NG Explorer & NG Endurance departures, or Santiago, Chile (SCL) for NG Resolution departures. Round-trip charter flights are needed between Buenos Aires/Santiago and Ushuaia, Argentina (USH). Embarkation time may vary based upon arrival of group flights from Dallas, Texas (DFW). Disembarkation is after breakfast on Day 22 of the outlined itinerary; departure times may vary depending on group flights to Dallas, Texas. If you would like assistance with international flights, please visit our Booking Flights  resource page.

Internal Flights

Group charter flights between Buenos Aires/Santiago and Ushuaia, Argentina are required on this trip’s itinerary; see this trip’s Exclusions and inquire with an Adventure Specialist for pricing. 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.

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.

Select departures follow the modified itinerary counterclockwise, visiting Antarctica before South Georgia and the Falkland Islands, sailing round-trip from Ushuaia, Argentina.

Today fly south to Ushuaia, the southernmost city in the world, where you meet your ship. Ushuaia’s spectacular setting, between the jagged peaks of the Darwin Range and the protected waters of the Beagle Channel, makes it an appropriately wild place to begin your journey to the White Continent and a great destination in its own right. Lunch will be served onboard a private catamaran while cruising the Beagle Channel, where you’ll be on the lookout for huge South American sea lions and birds like imperial cormorants. Residents of Ushuaia often call their small city ‘El Fin Del Mundo’, The End of the World, but for you, it’s just the beginning.

This 500-mile-wide strait between South America and the Antarctic Peninsula is one of the most famous bodies of water in the world. Sometimes ferocious, sometimes flat calm, the Drake is always a fascinating place in its own right. This part of the journey is your best opportunity to see gorgeous seabirds like the wandering albatross, and you might be lucky enough to encounter killer whales or rare species of dolphins. This is also a day to get to know your ship and prepare for the adventures ahead. Visit the Bridge (a great place to spot wildlife), have a relaxing massage; attend a talk about the biology of the penguins you’ll soon be seeing; or settle into a comfy chair in the observation lounge, look out over the waves, and reflect on the incredible history of this fabled passage. If it does get a little rough, just take a couple of nice naps; you’ll be in Antarctica before you know it.

Setting out from the South Shetland Islands to South Georgia, you are following in the wake of Sir Ernest Shackleton’s epic voyage in the James Caird across 800 miles of the wild and lonely Scotia Sea. But you won’t be lonely at all—these waters are home to a large and growing population of whales, including fin whales, southern right whales and even blue whales—the largest animal on Earth. Albatross and petrels wing past the ship, providing you with another wonderful challenge for photography, while presentations from the expedition team help to prepare you for the mind-bending wildlife spectacles of South Georgia.

Days at sea are not simply transits from one place to another; they are a very important part of this epic journey in their own right. The crossing from the Antarctic Peninsula to South Georgia gives you a chance to stop and breathe, to explore the amenities of the ship and to spend a little time contemplating all your new memories. Life-changing experiences tend to pile up on one another in the Antarctic, so slow down a bit and let it all settle in. This is a great time to catch up with your journal, enjoy a rejuvenating massage, or download and review all those hundreds (or thousands!) of photos. Get some rest, too—when you get to South Georgia, it’s going to be go, go, go!

Your first day at sea on the way to the Falkland Islands is another opportunity to think back over the adventures of the past few days and make preparations for those soon to come. Spend some time chatting about your latest images with the National Geographic photography expert and learn to make them look their best in the digital darkroom. Put the finishing touches on your watercolor of that amazing iceberg or try to capture an albatross’s flight in a poem. Everyone needs to exhale a bit after a visit to South Georgia, so take a little time to explore the details of your own memories and share them with your shipmates.

The Bridge is the nerve center of the ship, in more ways than one. There’s always a congenial atmosphere there, whether you’ve come to ask one of the officers about navigation or just to sit and watch the world go by with binoculars in hand. The waters close to the Falkland Islands are rich with marine wildlife, so this is a great time to hang out with the naturalists and keep watch for rare dolphins or another beautiful species of albatross. All new sightings go up on the white board for the day’s record!

The final day of your expedition takes you across the shallow waters of the Falklands Shelf, back to your starting point in Ushuaia. Attend presentations from the expedition staff on topics that help to sum up all the wonderful details of your experiences in the far south, and spend some time on deck enjoying the seabirds and dolphins that make these seas their home.

This is a day for contemplation as well. The Antarctic stays with you. Sometime soon, at a moment in the midst of a stressful day, you’ll remember the feeling of the polar wind, the sight of waves crashing against the blue wall of an iceberg, and the sound of the penguins calling to their chicks. It’s a little bit of peace that you’ll carry with you always.

Expedition parka to keep; all accommodations; meals as indicated; excursions; services of expedition leader, naturalist staff and expert guides; 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.

Cruise Rates & Dates

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

Learn About the Small Ships on Your Itinerary

The 126-guest National Geographic Endurance is the newest addition to the National Geographic fleet. This expedition ship is specifically designed for stability and sustainability as well as for in-depth education and an unmatched range of exploration in the polar regions.

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.

The 126-guest National Geographic Resolution is one of the newest additions to the National Geographic fleet. This expedition ship is specifically designed for stability, efficiency, scholarship and long-range exploration in the polar regions.

Reviews From Our Experts So You Know What To Expect

An AdventureSmith expert returns to Antarctica—this time stopping at the wildlife Mecca of South Georgia Island. Learn all about the Island's wildlife, landscape, trip highlights to differences and see if South Georgia should be part of your Antarctica expedition.

AdventureSmith's founder writes this firsthand review of the National Geographic Resolution & Endurance. Learn what makes these the best-in-class, next-generation expedition ships, from X-Bow design to on-deck igloos.

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

In conjunction with this cruise, the following pre- and post-cruise options are available for a seamless land-and-sea group travel experience with National Geographic guides and fellow passengers. Contact AdventureSmith Explorations for pricing.

Buenos Aires (3-day) or Santiago (2-day) are each a pre-cruise extension are based out of the same hotel as the pre-night before the cruise. For expeditions starting in Buenos Aires, enjoy opportunities to explore the city via guided tour, including stops at well-known communities like La Boca, political and historical points of interest such as the Plaza de Mayo and cultural highlights including art museums and a tango performance. For voyages starting in Santiago, savor the wine, food and culture of the Casablanca Wine Valley and Maipo Valley, famous for their Sauvignon Blanc, Chardonnay and Carmenere grapes. Additionally, take in Santiago with 1-2 days of guided city tours.

Iguazú Falls is a 3-day, post-cruise extension to Iguazú Falls that includes naturalist-led walks, boat rides (weather permitting) and stunning views of the Falls from accommodations at the only hotel in Iguazú National Park in northeastern Argentina, a UNESCO World Heritage site. Enjoy guided walks to areas with special early access, before they open to the public.

Easter Island is a 4-day post-cruise extension to Easter Island that includes guided tours to archaeological sites and a museum, ceremonial sites including the largest ceremonial altar in Polynesia, the Puna Pau red stone quarry and Rano Raraku, where most of the moai  stone statues were carved.

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.

Cruise from Ushuaia to Punta Arenas, plus enjoy 2 full days exploring Torres del Paine National Park on this Chile cruise aboard 199-guest Ultramarine. Spend 15 days retracing Charles Darwin's epic "voyage to the edge of the world," with a modern twist: an included flightseeing excursion by helicopter, right from the ship.

Inspiration, Education & Travel Journals

Firsthand insight on why you should add South Georgia to your Antarctic route, how to get there and the best time to go.

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.

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.

Trips You Might Also Like

Simply put, National Geographic vessels have the finest naturalist program of all Antarctica cruises. This expedition features included activity options, a unique ROV and an extremely knowledgeable expedition crew.

Explore incredibly dense biodiversity, photograph 100,000 king penguins, visit Sir Ernest Shackleton's grave, kayak and hike on this South Georgia & the Falklands cruise aboard 126-guest Nat Geo Endurance or Resolution.

Cruise the Chilean fjords and Antarctica in one combined itinerary, aboard 126-guest Nat Geo Resolution or 148-guest Nat Geo Explorer. Experience Glacier Alley, Torres del Paine and Antarctica's iconic wildlife.

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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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This week at Davis: 28 March 2024

Davis throwback.

With less then a week to go before we get picked up, I’m leaving Davis station with no regrets, having had some of the best times of my life over this 23/24 summer season. This was the first time I’ve left Australia, and what a place to tick off the list first. The whole experience from the training in Hobart before we left, hiking trips in the Vestfold Hills, the sense of community that’s evolved over the last six months, and even work has been one of the greatest experiences of my life. There are too many experiences to list but here’s some of my favorite highlights.

Over my summer here at Davis, I was the youngest on station. At 22 years old I was nervous to start such a dream job so young. I was also somewhat nervous that I wouldn’t be as good as the rest of the team. However, all that quickly changed once I started working and loved it. Now looking back on it, it’s a feat I’m pretty proud of.

I was teamed up with a man named Macca, who coincidentally, is the oldest on station. A rugged, stubborn, bearded 65-year-old man, we seemed to be placed together for majority of projects this season and it was a blast. Such a casual and carefree man who loves a good joke, swears just a bit (every sentence) and loves a laugh. It was a great part of the summer, and you always knew you were in for a good day when you got told at prestart each day that we’d be working together. Macca is the epitome of a hard worker and if you’ve had the chance to meet him, you would instantly agree. He is someone who starts work an hour before so it can be set up ready to go, works until dinner time even after everyone else has knocked off for the day, works on weekends and never sleeps. Goes to the workshop most nights and weekends to make things not for himself, but others. It is a true testament to his character.  He’s an always cheerful and a stress-free man, everyone knows when he’s coming as you can either hear his full noise joking voice or the same old whistling tune coming from the room next door. He always greets anyone with the same “howdie doodie” and puts a smile on everyone’s face because of it.

We were lucky enough to have the opportunity to go out for hikes into the Vestfold Hills for recreational trips and stay in the huts, once we had done survival training. In early February, five of us called ‘the Matts and Brads show' – consisting of the three Matt’s and two Brads on station – set off for the biggest hike of the season so far, a five-day, 70+ kilometre hike.

We walked to a hut each night –  Brookes hut, onto Platcha Hut, then off to Trajer Ridge melon and finally to Watt’s hut –  before heading back to station on the fifth day. It's incredible to think to yourself, while walking over the rocky terrain, that you are actually hiking in Antarctica. On station, you are some of the most isolated humans on the planet and that's multiplied when you leave station and head to some of the huts out in the field. The highlight of the trip for all of us was the walk between Platcha hut and Trajer Ridge melon where we were able to walk across the ice plateau for the day. We had a heap of fun constantly stopping to take photos of all the ice formations, take in the scenery and even tow one another across the slippery ice patches.

One of the best moments of the trip was when we tried to climb Stalker Hill for about 25 minutes for an awesome view of the plateau and the Sørsdal Glacier. Upon reaching the top, all of us exhausted, we soon discovered we had climbed the wrong hill, Parker Hill, as Stalker Hill was straight in front of us blocking a big portion of the view! Nevertheless, the view was still 10/10 and probably the best view of my life so far. Ice bergs and the ocean one side, Sørsdal Glacier on the other, down into the fiords and hills towards Platcha Hut straight ahead.

Another highlight for my season here was darts. I'd never played before but people back at Kingston told us to buy our own darts. I always thought to myself, ‘why on earth would I do that, I'll never play darts.’ Sure enough, I did and it's actually pretty fun. We had the annual summer station tournament including singles and doubles darts, pool and table tennis, and somehow I picked it up pretty well and even managed to win the dart singles tournament.

Probably my favorite day of the season this year was Saturday 9 th March 2024. Several of us were lucky enough to be split into teams and chosen to fly in a helicopter out to a number of the field huts to conduct annual hut maintenance. Each group had a plumber, electrician and a carpenter who each had specific roles to carry out on the day. We had to go through a maintenance checklist and either fix what we could or report any damage or works that need to be completed in the near future. A group of three of us got dropped off in the helicopter to Brookes Hut in the early afternoon and got straight to work, fixing what we could and completing our tasks.

While we waited for the helicopter to return to pick us up, we sat down and enjoyed a pie that we’d had cooking in the oven, with an incredible view out of the window of a frozen ocean. Once back on station, a few of us got up in the early hours of Sunday morning and were treated to the best aurora I have ever seen in my life. Just when we were about to give up and go to bed, it started. The bright green, orange and purple bands of light danced throughout the night sky lasting hours, lighting the snow green and giving off more light than a full moon, showing what I had only ever seen in photos or videos and living an experience straight out of National Geographic.

Finally, one of the hardest things about this season coming to an end is knowing the inevitable goodbyes will soon be upon us. It'll mean saying goodbye to some of the best people I have ever met and become extremely close with, having made some friends for life. Knowing that, even though I will hopefully be returning again, it will never be with the same people we currently have here. 

Over the last six months, since meeting either at training in Hobart, on the ship, or just on station, we have all gone from complete strangers to making some mates for life. Some of us will be returning to Australia very soon, while the rest of the winterers will stay until the ship returns in November, braving the extreme cold and near complete darkness over the winter.

To the winterers, I would like to wish you all an amazing year ahead. To everyone, I would like to thank you all for an experience I will remember for the rest of my life.

Matt Boylen

Davis Sation Summer carpenter

Premium Content

Rogue orcas are thriving on the high seas—and they’re eating big whales

A fourth type of Pacific killer whale may live miles offshore from California and Oregon, preying on whales, other dolphins, and sea turtles.

Most orcas tend to stick to coastlines, from the Antarctic dwellers that make waves to knock seals off ice floes to the liver-extracting brothers around Cape Town . But now, scientists have found what could be a brand-new population of killer whales: Animals that ply the high seas, hunting large whales and other sizable prey.

These open-ocean denizens have been spotted at numerous locations far from Oregon and California, many of them well beyond the continental shelf, where waters can reach depths of 15,000 feet,   according to a recent study in Aquatic Mammals .

“There haven’t been any real studies, at least in the North Pacific, looking at killer whales in the open ocean,” says study leader Josh McInnes , a master’s candidate at the University of British Columbia’s Institute for the Oceans and Fisheries.  

“It was kind of a shock when … we saw animals that were out in this open ocean habitat and were completely different from the other ecotypes we know.”

Killer whales in the Pacific are grouped into three ecotypes: Residents, which live close to shore and eat salmon and other fish; offshores, which live farther out and also eat fish; and transients, also called Bigg’s, the only orcas previously known to eat mammals.   (See 13 fantastic photos of orcas.)

Scientists could not match the 49 whales in the new study with any known orcas through photos and descriptions, which are based on their unique dorsal fins and saddle patches, the gray or white pattern on an orca's back.  

This means the animals are either a subgroup of the transient ecotype or an entirely unique population, says McInnes, who is also a research associate with the Pacific Wildlife Foundation.

The team could also differentiate the population, dubbed the oceanics, from other known orcas due to scars or bite marks from the parasitic cookie-cutter shark, which only occur in the deep ocean.

Beyond individual variations, the oceanics don't look like other known ecotypes, for example sporting a large gray saddle patch or no saddle patch at all.

“The open ocean doesn’t support a lot of large predators; it’s often described as a giant desert, so we weren’t expecting to find so many different animals, so we’re excited to carry on more research,” McInnes says.

“We really just don't know yet what is happening with the killer whales in the open ocean. This is the mystery behind what we hope to do next.”  

Following the prey

Our knowledge of orcas living in the open ocean is limited, as it’s difficult to find the widely distributed animals in a boat.

Yet the recent paper, a mixture of literature review and new observations, discovered nine instances in which marine mammal researchers, fishermen, and tourists observed whales in the northern Pacific Ocean between 1997 and 2021.

In the first documented incident, researchers watched a large pod of killer whales attack a herd of nine adult female sperm whales, managing to separate one from the pack and kill it. Other pods also hunted and ate an elephant seal, a pygmy sperm whale, a Risso’s dolphin, and a leatherback sea turtle.

With detailed records from each such encounter, the researchers plotted geo-referenced locations, determined water depth, and compared photos in databases to determine that the 49 whales sighted could potentially be a new ecotype.  

It’s possible that this new population formed as prey drew them farther from shore.

“Mammal-eating killer whales are doing well, and their numbers are increasing as seal and other whale populations have rebounded since whaling and sealing became illegal,” says Robert Pitman , a marine ecologist at Oregon State University’s Marine Mammal Institute, who wasn’t involved in the study.

While prey overall is less abundant in deep-sea waters, killer whales may still find that habitat is more appealing than competing with the larger populations of resident whales closer to shore, he says.   (Watch video: sperm whales vs. orcas.)

To this end, McInnes and colleagues hope this study will spark efforts to document the new whale population through genetic sampling, satellite tagging, acoustic tracking, further photo identification, and additional field observation.

Climate change is affecting some populations of killer whales , such as those in Antarctica, which depend on seals that live on the rapidly decreasing ice. On the U.S. West Coast, a decline in salmon has reduced a population off Puget Sound , Washington.

Worldwide, however, the species is thriving, and coming more into contact with people in coastal areas. Orcas ramming and even sinking boats off Spain made headlines in 2023, with some people rooting for the animals as fighting back against human domination .

“Killer whales are probably the most widely distributed vertebrate on the planet. They are everywhere,” Pitman says.

With many tourist cruises available worldwide, he encourages everyone to put seeing a killer whale, whose males can reach lengths of 27 feet, on their bucket list.  

“This is the biggest apex predator we have on the planet today. We haven't seen anything like it since dinosaurs roamed the Earth.”  

Related Topics

• ORCA (KILLER WHALE)
• ANIMAL ATTACKS
• SPERM WHALE

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Menopause is very rare among animals. Here’s why orcas go through it.

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Onboard Obsession: Snorkeling With Manta Rays on an Expedition Cruise to Palau's Rock Islands

By Scott Bay

Onboard Obsession is a new series that explores the can't-miss highlights of the best-loved cruises—from the shore excursions to book to the spa treatments too relaxing to pass up.

As soon as my head dips beneath the warm waters of Indonesia’s Bunaken National Marine Park , I hear a mysterious tick-ticking, pop-popping sound that I haven’t experienced before while snorkeling . I quickly kick my flippers to rise. When my ears breach the surface, I hear a Lindblad Expedition leader explaining to some fellow passengers of the National Geographic Resolution that the faint sounds are signs of an extremely healthy coral.

I’m on a 12-day journey from Vietnam to Palau aboard the 138-passenger Resolution , purpose-built to access waterways that would otherwise be impossible without dynamic positioning technology , an X-bow construction, and a team of expedition leaders who negotiate “dockings” like this one, floating within a protected marine reserve with no other vessels in sight.

I dive again beneath the surface to the undersea equivalent of Tokyo’s Shibuya Crossing . Several green and hawksbill turtles are darting in and out of a vibrant coral cliff with seemingly millions of species, from sculpins to sun coral and everything in between. I strain my eyes and urge my brain to take in every detail and somehow lodge each scene into my memory bank. Often I repeat characteristics of sea life to myself while snorkeling so that I can later identify the species back on board, with help from the expedition team and dedicated science center. One kick after another I spot a fish that I never thought I would see outside of a nature documentary: to the left are clownfish in their bubble-tip anemone homes, plus a lionfish, a porcupinefish, an octopus, a school of thousands of Niger triggerfish fluttering their fins like butterflies.

After what feels like hours of playing a marine version of Where’s Waldo, I realize that I have drifted away from the group. I decide to turn and float on my back before catching up in one last-ditch effort to take everything in. The sun-soaked, tropical scene feels like slow motion suddenly, disorienting me in a way that I haven’t felt since I was a child.

The Coral Triangle in the western Pacific is home to nearly 600 coral species and over 2,000 different types of reef fish.

“That was the most varied snorkeling I’ve ever seen,” says Brett Garner, one of the National Geographic Resolution's expedition team , as we ride the zodiac back to the ship. That’s a lot coming from a marine biologist who has spent years of his life in a mask and fins. In fact, most of the expedition team had never snorkeled the center of the Coral Triangle due to its extremely remote nature, and were similarly gobsmacked.

As I settle into the hammock on my room's balcony later that night, savoring a housemade shortbread cookie shaped like a parrot fish, I feel especially reflective. I grew up as a water baby, snorkeling and diving the Caribbean with my family—almost every vacation was somewhere that could take us underwater. But I haven’t really been snorkeling since then, for almost 16 years. Looking out at the mushroom-shaped limestone formations sticking up out of the sea, each with a drapery of vegetation, it's bittersweet to realize that my renewed wonder for the activity was probably the best I’ll ever experience.

Walking into breakfast the next morning, I spot marine biologist Heather Denham and assistant expedition leader Alexandra Kristjánsdóttir and grab an empty seat at their table. I share my melancholy with them—that I am freshly impassioned but feel like I’ve already seen the pinnacle of snorkeling. They both let out laughs and assure me that there’s always a surprise beneath the surface.

Boy were they right. A few hours later, in Palau’s Rock Islands , I am swimming with fellow passengers aged mid-20s to high 70s, seeing black tip sharks, psychedelic brain coral, giant clams, and playing with stingless jellyfish. At one point, the speed boat captain spots a manta ray. Even though we had been snorkeling all day , we move faster than I’ve seen in the previous 11 days, quickly donning our masks and fins and jumping into the deep blue. The current immediately pulls us as we try to stick close together on the hunt for the ray. “HERE!,” Heather shouts, and I turn around to see an 11-foot manta ray directly in front of me. I’m frozen in movement as it turns up to the surface in a big circle, showing me its underside, before diving deep.

I am greeted at the surface with the hooting and hollering of involuntary happiness brought on by seeing such a magnificent creature in its natural habitat. Heather leans over to me on the boat ride back to the ship, “See, it doesn’t get much better than this, does it?” And as someone who has a difficult time staying present, I can only smile and realize I haven’t felt so in the moment in years.

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National Geographic is seeking a dynamic executive assistant who is looking to begin to establish a career in social media. As a key contributor to the team, the assistant serves a critical role as a primary point-person for the entire National Geographic Social team. You will provide best-in-class scheduling, support, organization, planning, asset management, campaign assistance and research to help keep the team and all the work being done on it, run smoothly.  

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• Scheduling meetings across multiple time zones, departments, and brands while respecting the need for flexibility and adaptability in an ever-changing environment.
• Answer/roll calls while generating a comprehensive understanding of the industry.
• Manage all worldwide travel arrangements and trip tracking/oversight (flight, hotel, car, meeting coordination) and all related expense management.
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Disney Entertainment Television is a collection of renowned content brands at The Walt Disney Company creating original entertainment and news programming for the company’s streaming platforms Disney+, Hulu and Star, and its broadcast and cable networks. Its extensive portfolio is comprised of ABC Entertainment, ABC News, ABC Owned Television Stations, Disney Branded Television, Freeform, FX, Hulu Originals, National Geographic Content and Onyx Collective, in addition to Disney Television Studios, which include 20th Television, 20th Television Animation, ABC Signature and Walt Disney Television Alternative. Responsible for over 4,500 hours of programming a year across more than 300 programs of all genres, Disney Entertainment Television’s creative brands are at the forefront of groundbreaking storytelling, captivating audiences and generating critical acclaim. In 2023, Disney Entertainment Television’s programming excellence earned 163 Emmy® nominations across daytime, primetime, news & documentary, and children’s & family categories.

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Everything You Know About Killer Whales Is Wrong

The predators might not be a single species, but three—or more.

This article was originally published in Hakai Magazine .

John Ford still recalls the first time he heard them. He’d been puttering around the Deserters Group archipelago, a smattering of spruce- and cedar-choked islands in Queen Charlotte Strait, between Vancouver Island and mainland British Columbia. He was piloting a small skiff and trailing a squad of six killer whales. Ford, then a graduate student, had been enamored of cetacean sounds since listening to belugas chirp while he worked part-time at the Vancouver Aquarium as a teenager. Now here he was, on August 12, 1980, tracking the underwater conversations of wild killer whales through a borrowed hydrophone.

Ford had spent the previous two summers painstakingly recording the sounds made by other groups of these black-and-white marine mammals, known as resident killer whales. In summer and fall, the residents traveled in noisy, tight-knit pods that often hugged the shorelines of British Columbia and Washington State, breaching in spectacular aerial displays that delighted tourists, scientists, and other bystanders. They emitted rapid overlapping clicks and thumps, along with squeals, honks, and bleats that could resemble seal barks or, occasionally, human flatulence.

Yet to Ford, the vocalizations he captured on his reel-to-reel that August day sounded nothing like the resident killer whales he’d recorded in previous years. They were coming from a gang of whales researchers had taken to calling “the oddballs,” because they appeared to scientists to be social outcasts who had left or been driven out of the resident group. Their calls were tonal, more alien, and far louder, sometimes sounding like a rusty hinge on a closing gate. Clicks were infrequent, when they came at all. “I was amazed,” Ford says now.

Although Ford spent the rest of his career studying whales, eventually leading the cetacean-research program for Fisheries and Oceans Canada’s Pacific Biological Station before retiring in 2017, he never forgot his reaction that day: These must be different creatures.

More than 40 years later, science is poised to agree.

Read: How first contact with whale civilization could unfold

A new study published this past Wednesday in the journal Royal Society Open Science by a team of whale experts argues that across the North Pacific, resident killer whales and the oddballs—long since renamed transient, or Bigg’s, killer whales—aren’t just different ecotypes. They’re entirely distinct species. The researchers contend that both are separate from a third species that encompasses the rest of the world’s killer whales.

Ford, who was not involved in the study, calls the research thorough and definitive, drawing from data collected across disciplines and over decades. “They’re just pieces of the story that have fit together to build, I think, a compelling case,” he says.

By proposing to split Orcinus orca into three separate species—residents, transients, and everything else—scientists aren’t only changing the taxonomic record to more accurately reflect what it means to be a killer whale. They’re also acknowledging the ways that communication, behavior, and even culture can help shape speciation as surely as genetics and physiology do.

Killer whales traverse all the world’s oceans, from polar waters to the tropics. They are the seas’ apex predators, described in scientific literature in 1869 as “wolves of the ocean,” who swim “in small companies” while “living by violence and plunder.” That’s true. Some killer whales eat birds or baby whales or balls of herring. Others prey on manta rays or sea turtles. In Antarctica, they work together to wash seals off ice by swamping floes with waves. In both hemispheres, killer whales have been seen surging onto beaches to pluck seals right off land.

There have long been signs that such hunting behaviors and dietary differences might be more than mere preference. In 1970, whale rustlers herded several killer whales into Pedder Bay, southwest of Victoria, British Columbia, with the intent of capturing them for marine theme parks. For more than 11 weeks, two of the whales refused to eat the fish that handlers served them, becoming more and more emaciated. What no one knew then was that these captives were transients, not the resident killer whales who were known to specialize in chinook salmon as prey. Scientists didn’t yet understand that transients even existed, or that they’d eat seals, porpoises, dolphins, even humpback calves—but not fish.

“These prey specializations aren’t just choices that orcas make on a daily basis—they are hardwired,” Bob Pitman, a marine ecologist and an affiliate of Oregon State University’s Marine Mammal Institute, says. In fact, both populations are so set in their ways that researchers have spied resident fish-eating whales slaughtering harbor porpoises for sport without consuming them.

For decades, scientists misunderstood these behaviors, which are consistent everywhere that residents and transients are found, from California, British Columbia, and Alaska to Japan, Russia, and beyond. “We didn’t recognize that as being evolutionarily significant,” says Phillip Morin, a marine-mammal geneticist with the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) Southwest Fisheries Science Center who co-authored the Royal Society Open Science study.

By 2003, the population of one subsection of residents—the southern residents, often spied in and around the Salish Sea, which stretches from British Columbia’s Strait of Georgia to Washington’s Budd Inlet—had plummeted to 83 individuals from estimates of more than 200 prior to the 20th century. Scientists in the United States trying to advise the government on how to offer federal protections to these particular whales struggled to describe how they fit in with the rest of the world’s killer whales, and vice versa. Nor did scientists know how long members of a group struggling to survive had gone without breeding with other killer whale groups in the same area.

So Morin spent years coordinating with fellow experts, amassing evidence about the peculiarities of residents and transients across the North Pacific. Some elements had been known for decades. For instance, transients don’t just eat differently from residents; they hunt differently too. Unlike their chatterbox neighbors, transients use stealth, and stalk meals in silence (likely because their prey use sound too). And although residents live in stable pods, transients travel in looser groups with shifting alliances.

Furthermore, many killer whales live in communities with their own rituals, which get passed down from one generation to the next through social learning. Even subgroups of resident whales that are genetically similar and overlap geographically can behave quite differently. Northern residents, for example, frequently zip into shallow waters to scratch their bellies on the gravelly seafloor. Southern residents, who frequent similar waters, have never been documented doing that. Instead, they hold multi-pod gatherings and occasionally push dead salmon with their snouts—neither of which is a popular pastime with northern residents.

Read: Killer whales are not our friends

Alone, none of these differences is enough to classify different communities or ecotypes as distinct species. But for some groups of killer whales, what started out as behavioral traits handed down through generations may have ultimately helped lead to something more. “Most people tend to think [something is] either a different species or it’s not,” Pitman says. But “you have to understand: Evolution is a slow change over time. It’s not a black-and-white situation.”

Over several decades, Morin’s compilation of research helped illuminate differences both subtle and extraordinary, through methods as diverse as finding and studying whale skulls and using cameras attached to drones. Transients, compared with residents, are somewhat longer and fatter, with more triangular dorsal fins. Their jaws are more robust and curved—a necessity, perhaps, for wrangling a half-tonne dinner of Steller sea lion.

But some of the most compelling distinctions come from work by Morin and his colleague Kim Parsons, a research geneticist at NOAA’s Northwest Fisheries Science Center. When studying tissue samples, Parsons found that whenever whales look, act, feed, and sound like transients, they have DNA that’s noticeably distinct from residents. In fact, Morin’s work showed that the two whale types, even when swimming in nearby waters, are so genetically removed from each other that they haven’t interbred for at least several hundred thousand years. As Parsons puts it: “They’ve obviously been on very separate, very divergent, and independent paths of evolution for a very, very long time.”

This pattern remains true across the North Pacific. Andrew Foote, an evolutionary biologist at the University of Oslo, in Norway, who has studied killer whales but wasn’t part of this study, says that this speaks to how robust the barriers to gene flow are between residents and transients.

Morin’s best guess is that as ice ages came and went, groups of whales became isolated by changing geography and were forced to specialize. “There was this physical separation, which is the normal way that speciation starts to occur, and the cultural variation was overlaid on top of that,” Morin says. When the environment shifted again and whales came back together, “cultural differences reinforced the separation.”

Other animals that separated for millennia and then reunited might not have a problem reintegrating, Morin adds. But killer whales have such cohesive family bonds and distinct dialects that “this cultural aspect helps drive their divergence—or at least helps maintain it.”

For the moment, killer whales globally will remain a single species. The Society for Marine Mammalogy’s taxonomy committee will debate the findings of Morin and his colleagues, maybe later this spring, and many experts suspect they will eventually accept the proposed partitioning of killer whales into three species: transients ( Orcinus rectipinnus ), residents ( Orcinus ater ), and everything else, including the offshore whales that also call the North Pacific home. All of those would still go by Orcinus orca —at least for now. This research may eventually pave the way for further divisions among the rest of the planet’s killer whales.

In the meantime, Ford looks forward to being able to finally settle a long-standing argument. “What this paper is going to do is resolve a problem I’ve had for years,” he says, chuckling. When he talks to the public highlighting differences between these whales, or tells someone at a dinner party how he spent his career, he invariably faces a question: “Why aren’t they different species?”

Now he can say, “I think they will be soon.”