Lindblad expands Antarctica itineraries with shorter cruises and Drake Passage flyover

   January 11, 2024 ,   Cruise Industry

Lindblad Expeditions-National Geographic introduces two novel Antarctica itineraries, emphasizing shortened sailings and flights over the Drake Passage.

The first, an 8-day itinerary, involves roundtrip flights over the Drake Passage, ferrying guests to and from the Chilean Base of Presidente Frey on King George Island. Following embarkation on the recently renovated National Geographic Explorer, the ship will navigate Antarctica, concluding on the 7th day at King George Island. Guests will disembark, taking a flight to Puerto Natales Chile, where an overnight stay precedes their journey home the next day.

The second itinerary caters to those desiring a one-way sailing across the Drake Passage and a flight for the return leg. Commencing in Ushuaia, Argentina, guests will board the Explorer and spend two days crossing the Drake to reach Antarctica, followed by five days of sailing. Upon arrival at King George Island, guests transition to a chartered flight for their journey homeward.

These additions bring Lindblad Expeditions-National Geographic's Antarctica offerings to 7 unique itineraries, totaling ~50 departures for the 2024-2025 season.

The Explorer, having undergone a "dramatic revitalization" in June 2023, showcases Scandinavian design, enhancing the overall expedition experience.