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We consider this to be the "gold standard" of polar experiences. Expect spectacular wildlife and soul-expanding vastness in this stunning and magical region.
8.1*
ECO SCORE
8.1*
PASSENGERS
8.1*
DAYS
8.1*
ACTIVITY LEVEL
Antartica: Drink It In
Welcome Aboard the
National Geographic Explorer
The ultimate Southern Ocean experience, this South Georgia Island cruise expedition takes you into majestically spectacular wildness. Nothing can rival the awesomeness of seeing a king penguin colony of tens of thousands of individuals stretching as far as the eye can see. You’ll have other rare sightings here too: massive herds of elephant seals and a wandering albatross stretching its 11-foot wings. A not-be-missed polar experience, for those with the luxury of time.

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Spectacular early evening sundowners, unscripted, familial visits in Maasai villages.
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Visit soul-expanding Harambee Centre in Nairobi.
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A visit to the geologic masterpiece, Ngorongoro Crater.
Travel Curator’s Insights:
Trip Sustainability Awards

CARBON
Fantastic advances in minimizing carbon footprints at locations.

ENERGY
On the East African Energy Renewal Board

EDUCATION
Runs local educational facilities for children.




Itinerary
DAY 1-2: U.S./Fly to Santiago, Chile
Depart on an overnight flight to Santiago. Check into the Hotel Santiago by Mandarin (or similar) before our guided overview of this vibrant city backed by the inspiring Andes. (Day 2: L)
DAY 3: Fly to Ushuaia/Embark
Fly to Ushuaia, the southernmost city in the world. Enjoy lunch on a catamaran cruise of the Beagle Channel before embarking. (B,L,D)
DAY 4: At Sea
Settle into shipboard life as we sail to Antarctica. Keep a lookout for albatross that glides alongside the ship. (B,L,D)
DAY 5-10: Antarctica
With long hours of daylight, we make the most of our days exploring the Antarctic Peninsula and surrounding islands. Our schedule is flexible, allowing us to take advantage of the unexpected. We’ll spend these days on the “White Continent,” exploring via Zodiac, kayak and on foot, and using our arsenal of tools for exploration. (B,L,D)

DAY 11-12: At Sea
As we voyage, head up to the Bridge to watch for icebergs and observe expert navigation at work as our skilled Captain and officers sail these historic waters. There’ll also be time to enjoy a massage in the wellness center, work out in the gym, and browse in the library. Each day our naturalists offer talks that add depth to your experience. (B,L,D)
DAY 13-17: South Georgia Island
This is the final resting place for explorer Sir Ernest Shackleton, and conditions permitting, we’ll hoist a toast at his gravesite. Teeming wildlife and breathtaking scenery greet our ship. And at a vast penguin colony, you’ll see tens of thousands of king penguins! (B,L,D)
DAY 18-19: At Sea
Whales beneath, birds above, as you continue on. Our naturalists will prepare us for the exciting days ahead with presentations on the wildlife and history of the Falkland Islands. (B,L,D)

DAY 20-21: Falkland Islands
The Falklands boast albatross, king cormorants, nesting rockhopper penguins, and Magellanic penguins in their green tussock grass burrows. Stroll the photogenic colonial town of Stanley and visit the evocative Anglican Cathedral with its archway of whalebones. (B,L,D)
DAY 22: At Sea
On our final day at sea, enjoy one last chance to view the marine life of these southern waters. Toast our epic voyage at a festive farewell dinner. (B,L,D)
DAY 23-24: Disembark Ushuaia/Fly to Santiago/Home
Disembark in Ushuaia. Fly by charter to Santiago and connect with your overnight flight home.
National Geographic Explorer
Arguably the finest expedition vessel on the seas, a state-of-the-art, ice-class expedition ship, all cabins have outside views; private bathrooms; and beautiful furnishings. Public spaces include a library, a lounge, a bar, a spa, a fitness center, a sauna, an internet cafe, and delicious fresh cuisine is served in the dining room. The ship carries kayaks, a fleet of Zodiac motorized landing craft, as well as top-of-the-line video equipment that allows access to the underwater world.
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Capacity: 148 guest
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Cabins: 81
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Specialists: NatGeo Experts, Full-Time Doctor, and Wellness Coach
ACHIEVEMENTS
2019 Condé Nast Traveler - Best Small Ship Cruise Line in the World
2019 Travel + Leisure - Best Small Ship Ocean Cruise Line

"Truly a gem, this luxury expedition ship had exquisite rooms, fantastic service, and has some of the best wildlife experts on board! We tell all of our friends to go on this adventure."
Bob S. - West Virginia, USA
Life On Board









Deck Plan
Click to enlarge

Deck Plan
Questions?
Rates

CATEGORY 1 CABIN
Main Deck with one or two Portholes #301-308
From in USD:
$25,890pp

Antarctica changes you. Add the charming Falkland Islands, the outrageous wildlife in South Georgia and world class, National Geographic-level experts to explain it all and you have one of the very best trips on the planet."
Joy Martinello, Founder
Questions?
What’s Included & Cancellation Policy:
Luxury accommodations and all meals. A highly-credentialed Safari Director and Driver-Guide during your journey.
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24/7 Concierge Team poised to meet last minute, unexpected, and unusual requests.
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Every last gratuity, even substantial ones to Safari Directors, Driver-Guides, waiters, porters… and everyone else, from beginning to end of your safari.
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Regional wine and beer at mealtimes, vehicles stocked with soft drinks and bottled water.
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Daily valet laundry service. You can pack less and even return home with a bag of clean clothes… now that’s luxury!
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Complimentary in-vehicle Wi-Fi as well as free Wi-Fi wherever else it exists on safari, including camps and lodges.
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All airport transfers, game park, national park, and conservancy fees...







