Lindblad Launches Flights To Antarctica To Avoid Rough Drake’s Passage

11.01.2024 - 17:25 / forbes.com / Drake Passage / Lindblad Expeditions

If you're scrolling through TikTok right now, you might notice a flurry of videos showcasing some very rough rides through Drake's Passage on the way to Antarctica. But Lindblad Expeditions-National Geographic just threw a curveball into the icy mix.

Traditional Antarctic voyages, averaging 14 days, often limit the accessibility of this remarkable adventure. However, starting next year, the National Geographic Explorer, a recently refurbished expedition vessel, will offer a more flexible option. This includes an eight-day itinerary with round-trip flights across the Drake Passage. Yes, that means not only could you explore the remote continent without getting seasick, but you could also do it by taking just five days off work.

"No matter how many days they have to invest, helping curious explorers discover the majesty of Antarctica is a joy and a privilege we've been successfully offering for more than 50 years," said Trey Byus, Chief Expedition Officer, Lindblad Expeditions. "We know this is a once-in-a-lifetime trip for most guests, so we don't want them to miss a thing.

The eight-day "Antarctica Direct: Fly the Drake Passage" itinerary is perfect for those eager to jump straight into their Antarctic expedition. Guests will fly to Presidente Frey Base on King George Island, board the National Geographic Explorer, and spend five days exploring the region. Activities range from whale watching and hiking penguin highways to kayaking and Zodiac cruises. The expedition concludes with a flight back to Chile, offering limited-time inaugural pricing and a special Expedition Credit for early bookings.

For the more adventurous, the 10-day "Antarctica Direct: Sail and Fly the Drake Passage" expedition combines the thrill of crossing the Drake Passage by ship with a flight return. So, you only have to brave the sometimes treacherous seas one way. Starting in Ushuaia, Argentina, guests will traverse the 500-mile-wide passage to Antarctica, where they will spend five days exploring by various means before flying back from King George Island.

Linblad's offering points to a growing trend in Antarctica's exploration of making it more accessible to people. Quark Expeditions also offers itineraries that fly over Drake's Passage, Antarctica 21, and others.

Looking to the 2024-25 season, Lindblad plans to enhance the educational aspect of these trips. Renowned scientists and experts will join the voyages, providing guests valuable insights into the region's environment and conservation efforts. In the 2023-24 season, more than 20 Visiting Scientists will conduct research onboard, involving guests in meaningful scientific endeavors.

"Opening doors for worldwide exploration is the heart of National Geographic Expeditions,