Can you hear the call of Antarctica, one of the most extraordinary corners of our planet, where you’ll be in awe with every step you take? From the first crunch underfoot as you walk onto the ice to the thrill of a leopard seal turning to meet your gaze, discover the unique ice formations, spectacular wildlife and otherworldliness of a destination like no other.
But what’s the best way of travelling to this majestic place – onboard a ship across the Drake Passage, or by plane as you fly over? With Aurora Expeditions, we offer both sail and fly options so you can get the most from our itineraries – whether you want to maximise your time on the white continent with our fly options or take on the fuller, more traditional experience of sailing the Drake.
No matter which way you choose, you are sure to have perspective-altering experiences on the voyage of a lifetime. If you like to learn more about possible ways to explore Antarctica, check out our latest infographic explaining our Antarctic itineraries.
Sail
If you are looking for a truly intimate journey to Antarctica, there is no better option than cruising the mighty Drake Passage. The body of water between Cape Horn and the Southern Ocean can be rough, but very few people can say they have travelled these historic waters.
Our ships feature the revolutionary Ulstein X-BOW®, which allows the ships to cross oceans more comfortably and efficiently by cutting through the swell so you feel fewer vibrations and disturbances, and makes quicker transits through waves.
This, in combination with Rolls Royce dynamic stabilisers offers unrivalled stability and comfort* on ocean crossings. It also helps reduce our fuel consumption.
Of course, a consequence of this type of expedition is that those who are prone to seasickness or don’t enjoy the open ocean may not enjoy cruising across the passage.
*Aurora Expeditions do not claim that this will prevent or cure seasickness.
South Georgia & Antarctic Odyssey
This voyage encompasses the best of the Antarctic Peninsula and the enchanting wildlife haven of South Georgia. Discover the historic
Spirit of Antarctica
Embrace the spirit of polar exploration on this classic expedition to the coveted white continent. Sail across the famed Drake
Antarctica Complete
Experience unparalleled adventure and discovery on your ultimate Antarctic voyage. If you want to see it all, this is the
Fly
There are many Aurora voyages that bypass one or both legs of the Drake Passage, with explorers flying into the Falkland Islands and King George Island. From the air, it is possible to get an idea of the true isolated nature of the Sub Antarctic, witnessing the white caps of the waves with the sporadic seabird.
Of course, while explorers still get to see the Antarctic from on board a ship closer to the continent, there is always the chance that moments of whales, birds and other animals are missed on the way across the Drake Passage. Additionally, the threat of bad weather in the region could, in some rare cases, delay progress to the frozen tundra. Please read our contingency plans for Fly/Sail, Sail/Fly and Fly/Fly expeditions.
Across the Antarctic Circle
Venturing below the Antarctic Circle is about more than just earning bragging rights. It is the chance to enter a
Wild Antarctica
Famed for its tremendous tabular icebergs, year-round sea ice, fascinating fossils and the pivotal role it played in Shackleton’s Endurance
Antarctic Explorer
Early Antarctic explorers returned from their voyages to the deep south with tales of a magnificent, ice-covered land teeming with