Antarctic Peninsula

Antarctica Direct: Fly the Drake Passage from Puerto Natales

Prices on this page are indicative rates

Final price may change due to currency fluctuations. Choose to pay in NZD, AUD, GBP, USD or EUROs. Contact us today and secure your small ship cruise.

Dismiss

Experience the wild grandeur of the White Continent in a more efficient, expedient way with our eight, nine and ten-day options. On this new itinerary, bypass the traditional Drake Passage crossing on a two-hour flight to and from Antarctica, and discover all of the highlights without sacrificing the extra time. Travel with a diverse team of experts aboard our intimately scaled National Geographic Explorer and National Geographic Orion, purpose-built for polar exploration. Venture into channels and coves framed by towering peaks. Watch for whales off the bow; Zodiac cruise around enormous icebergs; and hike, kayak and (in November) even possibly cross-country ski or snow-shoe in complete tranquility. Choose an active agenda or surrender to the pleasures of relaxing downtime and shipboard camaraderie. Plus, get top shots with the help of a National Geographic photographer. 

NOTE: This is an expedition in the truest sense—flexibility is key. Delays and early departures of flights due to inclement weather are common in Antarctica. In the event of a flight adjustment, your expedition team may implement a contingency plan with alternative activities.

9 and 10 day itineraries available, please get in touch for more information. 


Highlights


• Get a head start on your Antarctica experience by flying across the Drake Passage from Puerto Natales to King George Island, landing at the Chilean research station which permanently operates there

• Explore the world’s last great wilderness in the company of top naturalists and the most experienced polar captains in Antarctica, with more than 55 years of expedition heritage

• Hike amid magnificent mountains; see huge glaciers; and observe a parade of gentoo, Adélie, and chinstrap penguins

• Kayak in protected waters, paddling in the Antarctic stillness as penguins swim nearby

• November departures offer the possibility to cross-country ski or snowshoe across the frozen sea ice, conditions permitting

• With National Geographic Global Explorers, our exclusive family program, kids and teens will learn about this exhilarating part of the world—from its massive glaciers to humpback whales



  • DAY 1 Puerto Natales, Chile

     

    Arrive in Puerto Natales. Originally a small fishing port, the town is nestled on the Last Hope Sound and boasts a stunning view of the sea surrounded by the Cerro Benitez Mountains—the gateway to Torres del Paine. Transfer from the airport to your hotel, where you'll enjoy dinner and attend a briefing on the following day’s activities. 

    Ask your expedition specialist about joining an immersive 5-day pre-voyage extension to explore Torres del Paine National Park, an incredible UNESCO biosphere reserve.

    Arrival Time: Arrive to the hotel in Puerto Natales by 3:00 p.m. local time.
    Arrival City: Puerto Natales, Chile

    Meals Included: Dinner

  • DAY 2 Puerto Natales / King George Island / Embark Ship

     

    Following breakfast, check out of the hotel and transfer to the airport for our 2-hour direct flight to King George Island and the thrilling start to our Antarctic adventure. Home to a diverse assortment of wildlife—Weddell and elephant seals, Adelie, chinstrap and gentoo penguins—King George Island also has a human presence. Researchers from a wide range of countries, including the US, Chile, Argentina, and Brazil, call the various stations home. Our flight will land at the Chilean research station where the National Geographic Explorer will be waiting offshore. Board Zodiacs to embark the ship and set sail. 

    Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

  • DAYS 3-6 Exploring Antarctica

     

    With long hours of daylight at this time of year, we have ample opportunities to explore. Our schedule is flexible, allowing us to take advantage of the unexpected, whether we’re watching whales at play off the bow of our ship, hiking alongside penguin highways, or enjoying an evening Zodiac cruise amid porpoising penguins.

    While wildlife is magnificent, ice defines the Antarctic. You’ll get to know ice up close and personal—from icebergs the size of islands, bergy bits and near-vertical glaciers, to the fragile, nearly invisible layers that have just begun to freeze. One day, we 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; or walk amid thousands of Adélie and gentoo penguins. The next, we might experience the thrill of the ship crunching through pack ice.

    Everywhere we go in Antarctica we’re surrounded by opportunities to capture uniquely beautiful images. Along the way your expert expedition team will enrich every experience. 

    Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

  • DAY 7 King George Island / Disembark Ship / Puerto Natales

     

    This morning, the ship will be moored off of King George Island once again. Following disembarkation and Zodiac rides to shore, our flight departs the White Continent and returns to Puerto Natales where we overnight at Hotel Costaustralis or Remota Patagonia Lodge (or similar). 

    Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

  • DAY 8 Puerto Natales

     

    Check out of your hotel and transfer to the airport to begin your journey homeward.

    Departure Time: Outbound flights from Puerto Natales should depart no earlier than 1:00 p.m. local time (or as late in the day as possible).
    Departure City: Puerto Natales, Chile

    Meals Included: Breakfast

  • Please note:

    Itineraries are subject to change.

  • 10 January, 2026 to 17 January, 2026

    More Cabin Categories & Prices Available

    Book now
    Please contact us for more information

    9 & 10 Day Departures Available

    Book now
    Please contact us for more information

    Category 1. From

    $22,389 NZD pp
    * indicative rate.
    Book now
    Category 1. From #301-308 — Cabins feature one or two portholes. Most cabins feature two single beds that can be converted to a queen. Cabins #301-306 feature one queen-sized bed. All cabins feature a writing desk, floor length mirror, reading lamps, well-appointed bathrooms with a roomy glass-wall shower, and a TV.
  • 15 January, 2026 to 22 January, 2026

    More Cabin Categories & Prices Available

    Book now
    Please contact us for more information

    9 & 10 Day Departures Available

    Book now
    Please contact us for more information

    Category 1. From

    $22,036 NZD pp
    * indicative rate.
    Book now
    Category 1. From #301-308 — Cabins feature one or two portholes. Most cabins feature two single beds that can be converted to a queen. Cabins #301-306 feature one queen-sized bed. All cabins feature a writing desk, floor length mirror, reading lamps, well-appointed bathrooms with a roomy glass-wall shower, and a TV.
  • 29 January, 2026 to 05 February, 2026

    More Cabin Categories & Prices Available

    Book now
    Please contact us for more information

    9 & 10 Day Departures Available

    Book now
    Please contact us for more information

    Category 1. From

    $22,036 NZD pp
    * indicative rate.
    Book now
    Category 1. From #301-308 — Cabins feature one or two portholes. Most cabins feature two single beds that can be converted to a queen. Cabins #301-306 feature one queen-sized bed. All cabins feature a writing desk, floor length mirror, reading lamps, well-appointed bathrooms with a roomy glass-wall shower, and a TV.
  • 01 February, 2026 to 08 February, 2026

    More Cabin Categories & Prices Available

    Book now
    Please contact us for more information

    9 & 10 Day Departures Available

    Book now
    Please contact us for more information

    Category 1. From

    $22,896 NZD pp
    * indicative rate.
    Book now
    Category 1. From These cabins feature an oval window and two single beds, two beds that can be converted to a queen-size bed, or a queen size bed (call for details). You'll find an armchair, climate controls, reading lamps, and a TV. Bathrooms are also generously sized with a roomy glass-walled shower stall.
  • 03 February, 2026 to 10 February, 2026

    More Cabin Categories & Prices Available

    Book now
    Please contact us for more information

    9 & 10 Day Departures Available

    Book now
    Please contact us for more information

    Category 1. From

    $22,036 NZD pp
    * indicative rate.
    Book now
    Category 1. From #301-308 — Cabins feature one or two portholes. Most cabins feature two single beds that can be converted to a queen. Cabins #301-306 feature one queen-sized bed. All cabins feature a writing desk, floor length mirror, reading lamps, well-appointed bathrooms with a roomy glass-wall shower, and a TV.
  • 17 February, 2026 to 24 February, 2026

    More Cabin Categories & Prices Available

    Book now
    Please contact us for more information

    9 & 10 Day Departures Available

    Book now
    Please contact us for more information

    Category 1. From

    $22,036 NZD pp
    * indicative rate.
    Book now
    Category 1. From #301-308 — Cabins feature one or two portholes. Most cabins feature two single beds that can be converted to a queen. Cabins #301-306 feature one queen-sized bed. All cabins feature a writing desk, floor length mirror, reading lamps, well-appointed bathrooms with a roomy glass-wall shower, and a TV.
  • 22 February, 2026 to 01 March, 2026

    More Cabin Categories & Prices Available

    Book now
    Please contact us for more information

    9 & 10 Day Departures Available

    Book now
    Please contact us for more information

    Category 1. From

    $21,586 NZD pp
    * indicative rate.
    Book now
    Category 1. From #301-308 — Cabins feature one or two portholes. Most cabins feature two single beds that can be converted to a queen. Cabins #301-306 feature one queen-sized bed. All cabins feature a writing desk, floor length mirror, reading lamps, well-appointed bathrooms with a roomy glass-wall shower, and a TV.
  • 25 November, 2026 to 02 December, 2026

    More Cabin Categories & Prices Available

    Book now
    Please contact us for more information

    9 & 10 Day Departures Available

    Book now
    Please contact us for more information

    Category 1. From

    $19,273 NZD pp
    * indicative rate.
    Book now
    Category 1. From #301-308 — Cabins feature one or two portholes. Most cabins feature two single beds that can be converted to a queen. Cabins #301-306 feature one queen-sized bed. All cabins feature a writing desk, floor length mirror, reading lamps, well-appointed bathrooms with a roomy glass-wall shower, and a TV.
  • 30 November, 2026 to 07 December, 2026

    More Cabin Categories & Prices Available

    Book now
    Please contact us for more information

    9 & 10 Day Departures Available

    Book now
    Please contact us for more information

    Category 1. From

    $19,273 NZD pp
    * indicative rate.
    Book now
    Category 1. From #301-308 — Cabins feature one or two portholes. Most cabins feature two single beds that can be converted to a queen. Cabins #301-306 feature one queen-sized bed. All cabins feature a writing desk, floor length mirror, reading lamps, well-appointed bathrooms with a roomy glass-wall shower, and a TV.
  • 14 December, 2026 to 21 December, 2026

    More Cabin Categories & Prices Available

    Book now
    Please contact us for more information

    9 & 10 Day Departures Available

    Book now
    Please contact us for more information

    Category 1. From

    $19,724 NZD pp
    * indicative rate.
    Book now
    Category 1. From #301-308 — Cabins feature one or two portholes. Most cabins feature two single beds that can be converted to a queen. Cabins #301-306 feature one queen-sized bed. All cabins feature a writing desk, floor length mirror, reading lamps, well-appointed bathrooms with a roomy glass-wall shower, and a TV.
  • 19 December, 2026 to 26 December, 2026

    More Cabin Categories & Prices Available

    Book now
    Please contact us for more information

    9 & 10 Day Departures Available

    Book now
    Please contact us for more information

    Category 1. From

    $21,132 NZD pp
    * indicative rate.
    Book now
    Category 1. From #301-308 — Cabins feature one or two portholes. Most cabins feature two single beds that can be converted to a queen. Cabins #301-306 feature one queen-sized bed. All cabins feature a writing desk, floor length mirror, reading lamps, well-appointed bathrooms with a roomy glass-wall shower, and a TV.
  • 02 January, 2027 to 09 January, 2027

    More Cabin Categories & Prices Available

    Book now
    Please contact us for more information

    9 & 10 Day Departures Available

    Book now
    Please contact us for more information

    Category 1. From

    $21,741 NZD pp
    * indicative rate.
    Book now
    Category 1. From #301-308 — Cabins feature one or two portholes. Most cabins feature two single beds that can be converted to a queen. Cabins #301-306 feature one queen-sized bed. All cabins feature a writing desk, floor length mirror, reading lamps, well-appointed bathrooms with a roomy glass-wall shower, and a TV.
  • 07 January, 2027 to 14 January, 2027

    More Cabin Categories & Prices Available

    Book now
    Please contact us for more information

    9 & 10 Day Departures Available

    Book now
    Please contact us for more information

    Category 1. From

    $21,741 NZD pp
    * indicative rate.
    Book now
    Category 1. From #301-308 — Cabins feature one or two portholes. Most cabins feature two single beds that can be converted to a queen. Cabins #301-306 feature one queen-sized bed. All cabins feature a writing desk, floor length mirror, reading lamps, well-appointed bathrooms with a roomy glass-wall shower, and a TV.
  • 21 January, 2027 to 28 January, 2027

    More Cabin Categories & Prices Available

    Book now
    Please contact us for more information

    9 & 10 Day Departures Available

    Book now
    Please contact us for more information

    Category 1. From

    $21,741 NZD pp
    * indicative rate.
    Book now
    Category 1. From #301-308 — Cabins feature one or two portholes. Most cabins feature two single beds that can be converted to a queen. Cabins #301-306 feature one queen-sized bed. All cabins feature a writing desk, floor length mirror, reading lamps, well-appointed bathrooms with a roomy glass-wall shower, and a TV.
  • 26 January, 2027 to 02 February, 2027

    More Cabin Categories & Prices Available

    Book now
    Please contact us for more information

    9 & 10 Day Departures Available

    Book now
    Please contact us for more information

    Category 1. From

    $21,741 NZD pp
    * indicative rate.
    Book now
    Category 1. From #301-308 — Cabins feature one or two portholes. Most cabins feature two single beds that can be converted to a queen. Cabins #301-306 feature one queen-sized bed. All cabins feature a writing desk, floor length mirror, reading lamps, well-appointed bathrooms with a roomy glass-wall shower, and a TV.
  • 09 February, 2027 to 16 February, 2027

    More Cabin Categories & Prices Available

    Book now
    Please contact us for more information

    9 & 10 Day Departures Available

    Book now
    Please contact us for more information

    Category 1. From

    $21,390 NZD pp
    * indicative rate.
    Book now
    Category 1. From #301-308 — Cabins feature one or two portholes. Most cabins feature two single beds that can be converted to a queen. Cabins #301-306 feature one queen-sized bed. All cabins feature a writing desk, floor length mirror, reading lamps, well-appointed bathrooms with a roomy glass-wall shower, and a TV.
  • 14 February, 2027 to 21 February, 2027

    More Cabin Categories & Prices Available

    Book now
    Please contact us for more information

    9 & 10 Day Departures Available

    Book now
    Please contact us for more information

    Category 1. From

    $21,390 NZD pp
    * indicative rate.
    Book now
    Category 1. From #301-308 — Cabins feature one or two portholes. Most cabins feature two single beds that can be converted to a queen. Cabins #301-306 feature one queen-sized bed. All cabins feature a writing desk, floor length mirror, reading lamps, well-appointed bathrooms with a roomy glass-wall shower, and a TV.
  • National Geographic Explorer

    National Geographic Explorer

    Vessel Type: Luxury Expedition

    Length: 108 meters

    Passenger Capacity: 148 (single & twin cabins)

    Built / Refurbished: 1982 / 2008

    Originally constructed for Norway’s renowned Hurtigruten Coastal Express, National Geographic Explorer was a natural fit for the Lindblad Expeditions fleet thanks to her exceptional manoeuvrability, ice-strengthened hull, and purpose-built expedition design. Now fully stabilised and refitted with over five decades of exploration expertise, she is ideally suited for navigating the most remote corners of the globe—from the rugged coasts of Europe to the icy passages of the polar regions. With vast windows throughout and a Scandinavian-inspired interior, the ship invites guests to stay connected with their environment at every turn.

    Aboard National Geographic Explorer, every feature is tailored to enhance discovery. From the open Bridge and observation deck to the Chart Room and mudroom for expedition gear, the ship is an authentic platform for adventure. Her recently updated suites offer comfort and understated elegance, while public spaces such as the library, Global Gallery, and multiple dining areas encourage camaraderie and relaxation. Carrying expert guides, state-of-the-art tools, and a fleet of Zodiacs and kayaks, this 148-guest ship brings guests closer to nature with all the style and substance expected of a flagship expedition vessel.

    Cabin layout for National Geographic Explorer
  • National Geographic Orion

    National Geographic Orion

    Vessel Type: Luxury Expedition

    Length: 103 metres

    Passenger Capacity: 102 (in 53 cabins)

    Built: 2003 / Refurbished 2014

    With just 53 cabins, National Geographic Orion offers an intimate and refined platform for exploring some of the world’s most remote and culturally rich regions—from the Pacific Islands and Asia to Antarctica and the Mediterranean. Purpose-built for expedition travel, she boasts an ice-class hull for navigating polar waters and exceptional manoeuvrability that enables access to secluded bays, narrow inlets and winding rivers—places far beyond the reach of larger cruise ships.

    Life aboard Orion is designed to immerse guests in the natural world, with panoramic deck spaces, a whirlpool hot tub, and ample opportunities for wildlife viewing. Her public areas include two relaxed dining venues, a lounge with bar, an observation library, fitness centre and spa, as well as the OM System Photo Gear Locker to support photography at all levels. Open-Bridge access allows guests to connect with the ship’s officers and learn about navigation first-hand. Whether sailing through polar pack ice or anchoring off a tropical atoll, Orion delivers a seamless blend of adventure and comfort.

    Cabin layout for National Geographic Orion

Enquire Now
Add to Shortlist
8 Days from
$2,410 NZD per day
* Current p/p indicative rate. Click for info.


Enquire Now

or call us on

NZ Freephone
0800 945 3327

AUS Freephone
1800 107 715

to help you make your reservation