Antarctica: Sail and Fly the Drake Passage

Gentoo penguins returning by single file in Peterman Island, Antarctica. Photo credit: Ralph Lee Hopkins

Antarctica: Sail and Fly the Drake Passage

February 14 - 23, 2027

Length: 10 days

Region(s): Antarctica

Activity Level: Activity indicator paw

Type: Cruise

SPECIAL GROUP SAVINGS: Save 5% on cabin fare when traveling with the California Alumni Association/Cal Discoveries Travel on this departure (conditions apply).

Experience the wild grandeur of Antarctica on an itinerary designed for efficiency and immersion. Cruise the legendary Drake Passage one way, then return via a swift two-hour flight, allowing more time amid the ice and wildlife of the White Continent. Aboard the National Geographic Explorer, the definitive expedition ship, explore towering peaks, sculpted icebergs, and tranquil coves in the company of an expert expedition team.

Operated by National Geographic-Lindblad Expeditions

not including airfare between home city and expedition starting and ending points

including charter flight between Antarctica and Chile on the way back

Reservation Request

Tour Highlights

Experience it all—cruise the legendary Drake Passage aboard the National Geographic Explorer and then enjoy the ease of returning on our 2-hour direct flight from King George Island to Puerto Natales.
Travel aboard the National Geographic Explorer, a state-of-the-art expedition ship purpose-built for polar exploration and discovery.
Venture into dramatic channels and secluded coves framed by snow-covered mountains and vast glaciers.
Watch for whales from the bow, and keep an eye out for seals, penguins, and seabirds that thrive in this pristine environment.
Explore by Zodiac among towering icebergs and dazzling ice formations for unforgettable close-up views.
Hike ashore in complete tranquility to experience remote penguin colonies, historic sites, and breathtaking vistas.
Take advantage of opportunities to kayak or even cross-country ski, conditions permitting, for a more active Antarctic adventure.
Enjoy the flexibility to choose a more active daily agenda or relax into shipboard comforts, lectures, and camaraderie in the lounge.
Gain deeper insight into the polar environment from a diverse team of naturalists, historians, photographers, and polar experts who accompany the voyage.
Important note: As with any flight, delays or early departures may occur when traveling back from Antarctica at the end of the voyage. However, due to the region’s highly variable weather, air-cruise operations are especially dependent on favorable conditions. Low clouds, fog, and strong winds can significantly impact flight schedules, and travelers must remain flexible. Safety is the airline’s top priority, and officials continuously monitor conditions and adjust plans as needed.

For more information, click “Request a Brochure” under Additional Resources, located below the itinerary outline on the right.

* Cal lecturer’s participation cannot be guaranteed and is contingent upon a minimum number of paying travelers.

Activity Level 2

What to expect: These trips often travel by motor coach, ship, or train. Touring days may include full-day motor coach excursions or extended periods of standing and walking during city tours, museum visits, and/or outdoor activities. Travelers should be able to board transportation, walk over sometimes-uneven terrain, and climb a few flights of stairs, occasionally without handrails or assistance. Elevators are not always available. Outings last 2–4 hours most days.

Suitable for: Travelers who are able to comfortably walk two to four miles, or 4,600–6,900 steps, each day.