Ponant and National Geographic Expeditions launch new Antarctica cruises

Ponant and National Geographic have announced three new 16- to 21-day cruises to Antarctica.

The new itineraries include The Antarctic Odyssey – with National Geographic, a 21-day cruise with ports of call at the Falkland Islands, the Antarctic Peninsula and the mountainous South Orkney Islands – hunting ground for leopard seals. Shore excursions at some of the greatest wildlife sites on Earth will be guided by a National Geographic photographer. Departing from Montevideo, Uruguay the voyage finishes in Ushuaia, Argentina via the Drake Passage.

The second itinerary, a 16-day voyage visiting the Falkland Islands, South Georgia and Antarctica, introduces guests to the wild beauty of the Falkland Islands and the vast glaciers of South Georgia – all accompanied by a National Geographic Expert. The trip offers an all-new circumnavigation of South Georgia, allowing guests to explore the island’s spectacular west coast and perhaps land on sites where British explorer Sir Ernest Shackleton came ashore.

The third new itinerary, Beyond the Polar Circle – with National Geographic, is a 17-day polar expedition through the southern lands, which crosses the line of the Antarctic Circle. Guests will discover the sub-Antarctic region of South Georgia, which was formed by an underwater mountain chain and is home to diverse and protected wildlife. The on-board experience will be complemented by outings and shore visits in the Zodiacs with an experienced team of naturalist guides.

A portion of all proceeds from Ponant-National Geographic itineraries goes back to the non-profit National Geographic Society, which supports researchers and explorers who work to preserve, protect and advance understanding of the planet and its people.

Prices for the three new itineraries start from £12,735pp, including economy-class flights to Buenos Aires and transfers.

The itineraries are the latest offering from Ponant and National Geographic Expeditions, which joined forces in 2018 to offer a series of enriching expedition cruises to all the continents of the world.