How to Visit Antarctica Without Facing the Drake Passage: A New Travel Revolution

Explore Antarctica without the Drake Passage: A New Travel Experience

For many travelers, the allure of Antarctica is irresistible, yet the treacherous Drake Passage has long been a significant hurdle. In 2024, over 120,000 tourists ventured to the icy continent, with the majority braving the notoriously rough waters of the Drake Passage. This 600-mile stretch of turbulent sea between South America and Antarctica’s South Shetland Islands has earned a fearsome reputation. As Alfred Lansing, author of Endurance: Shackleton’s Incredible Voyage, once described, it is “the most dreaded bit of ocean on the globe.”

However, now there is a new, more comfortable way to visit this remote destination without enduring the Drake Passage. Thanks to a groundbreaking partnership, National Geographic-Lindblad Expeditions offers new itineraries that enable travelers to bypass the passage altogether, choosing to fly directly to Antarctica instead. This innovative approach is set to revolutionize how travelers experience the frozen continent.

Fly the Drake Passage: A Quicker, More Comfortable Journey

On December 3, 2023, National Geographic-Lindblad Expeditions unveiled two exciting new itineraries: the Antarctica Direct: Fly the Drake Passage expedition and the Antarctica Direct: Sail and Fly the Drake Passage voyage. These expeditions are designed to streamline travel to Antarctica, reducing the time spent in transit and maximizing the time spent on the continent itself. Traditionally, crossing the Drake Passage takes up to two full days, but with these new options, travelers can reach Antarctica much faster, with the added bonus of bypassing seasickness.

Travelers now have the option to take eight-, nine-, or ten-day trips that combine sailing and flying, allowing them to choose the experience that best suits their needs. The flying option is especially appealing for those who want to avoid the rough waters of the Drake Passage altogether while still experiencing the grandeur of Antarctica.

Experience Antarctica with Flexible Itineraries

Sven-Olof Lindblad, the CEO and founder of Lindblad Expeditions, explained that the company now offers a variety of itineraries, with over eleven different ways to travel in Antarctica. Options range from one-week trips to more extensive 23-day adventures. This flexibility ensures that travelers of all schedules and preferences can find the perfect option for their Antarctica journey.

The newly launched itineraries offer an ideal blend of speed and exploration, especially for time-constrained travelers. By bypassing the Drake Passage, these trips maximize time spent on the continent, allowing visitors to immerse themselves in the beauty and wonders of the Antarctic environment.

Partnership with Aerovías DAP: Seamless Flights to Antarctica

As part of their new offerings, National Geographic-Lindblad Expeditions has teamed up with Chilean airline, Aerovías DAP, to provide chartered passenger flights to King George Island. This island is the largest of Antarctica’s South Shetland Islands and serves as the gateway to Antarctica for travelers on the new expeditions.

These chartered flights provide a smooth, direct route to the icy shores of Antarctica, eliminating the need for long sea journeys and the discomfort often associated with crossing the Drake Passage. This partnership marks a significant leap in making Antarctic travel more accessible and convenient for travelers.

Exclusive Access to Puerto Natales: A New Starting Point

In addition to the new flight routes, National Geographic-Lindblad Expeditions is also offering exclusive departures from Puerto Natales, located in Chilean Patagonia. This small town, known for its boutique hotels and charming coffee shops, is also the gateway to the stunning Torres del Paine National Park.

Puerto Natales provides a serene and less crowded alternative to Punta Arenas, the primary hub for flights to Antarctica. For travelers looking for more adventure after their Antarctic journey, Puerto Natales is a perfect base for exploring the natural beauty of southern Chile.

Maximize Your Antarctic Adventure

With these new itineraries, National Geographic-Lindblad Expeditions is making it easier than ever to explore Antarctica. Whether you choose to sail, fly, or combine both modes of travel, these expeditions offer a unique and unforgettable experience that bypasses the hassles of the traditional Drake Passage journey. Thanks to the improved aircraft and weather forecasting technologies, travelers can now experience the wonder of Antarctica in less time and with far greater comfort.

The opportunity to explore the wonders of Antarctica without the challenges of the Drake Passage opens up the continent to more travelers, offering an unforgettable adventure in one of the most remote and pristine places on Earth.

For more information on the available itineraries and booking options, visit National Geographic-Lindblad Expeditions’ official site.

Travelers can now embark on this once-in-a-lifetime adventure and immerse themselves in the incredible landscapes and wildlife of Antarctica, all while enjoying a smoother, faster, and more comfortable journey.