Fly-Fly Itinerary
Please Note: Flexibility is a hallmark of these expedition cruises, and the day-to-day itinerary may change as we adapt to weather and local conditions, taking advantage of rare wildlife sightings or allowing photographers to linger ashore when the light is especially good.
Arrive in Puerto Natales, a once-small fishing village that now serves as a gateway to some of Patagonia’s most arresting landscapes. Surrounded by peaks and fjords and only a short journey from Torres del Paine National Park, the town sits on Last Hope Sound. Meet your expedition team and fellow adventurers at a welcome dinner this evening.
Day 2: Puerto Natales / King George Island, Antarctica / Embark Ship
A 2-hour flight delivers us to King George Island where our Antarctic adventure begins in earnest. The island is home to a diverse assortment of wildlife, including Weddell and elephant seals; and Adelie, chinstrap and gentoo penguins. Researchers from around the world, including the U.S., Chile, Argentina and Brazil conduct a range of analysis from the various scientific stations here. Our flight lands at the Chilean research station where the National Geographic Orion awaits offshore. A brisk Zodiac ride delivers us on board, and we set sail.
Days 3–8: Exploring Antarctica
In the austral summer’s extended daylight, we have ample opportunities to explore Antarctica’s magnificent landscapes and wildlife. Our flexible schedule allows us to seize unexpected moments, from observing playful whales to hiking alongside penguin colonies or enjoying evening Zodiac cruises amid porpoising penguins.
While the wildlife is extraordinary, ice defines Antarctica. We encounter it in various forms—from towering icebergs and near vertical glaciers to newly formed fragile layers. Activities may include kayaking among icebergs, Zodiac excursions in search of seals and blue-eyed shags or walks amid vast penguin rookeries. The thrill of our ship crunching through pack ice is unforgettable.
Antarctica’s waters are also vibrant. Enormous penguin colonies share beaches with Antarctic fur seals and southern elephant seals. Cruising among icebergs, we watch for whales and seals, sometimes close enough to hear their blows. Exceptional birdlife features diverse species of albatross, petrel, skua, gull, tern and cormorant.
After exhilarating days, return to the comfort of the National Geographic Explorer. Enjoy gourmet dinners while taking in the scenery through expansive windows. Throughout the journey, the expert expedition team enriches every experience, helping you fully appreciate this intact and grand natural world where we feel both humbled and inspired.
Day 9: King George Island—Disembark Ship / Puerto Natales
The only airstrip on the Antarctic Peninsula archipelago that can reliably serve the South American continent on a regular basis is located on King George Island in the South Shetland group. We disembark and Zodiac ashore to board our 2-hour flight to Puerto Natales.
Day 10: Puerto Natales / Depart
Fly homeward today from Puerto Natales, carrying a trove of memories from your unforgettable Antarctic adventure.
