Active & Wild Antarctica Air Cruise
Experience unparalleled access to activities and adventure gear on this 8- to 13-day Antarctica air cruise aboard three modern polar ships designed for adventure, education and conservation. Fly one way and skip the Drake Passage to dive, snorkel and kayak sooner. The trip's longer routes include lodge-based time in Patagonia.
On this 8- to 13-day Polar Expedition, reduce time on the high seas by flying one way across the Drake Passage. Polar Expeditions prioritize the experience over the itinerary, adapting daily to offer the optimal experience per weather, wildlife, tides and ice conditions.
Experience the awe-inspiring immensity of Antarctica and immerse in the unimaginable beauty of the Antarctic Peninsula, where vast glaciers tumble into the sea, penguins are dwarfed by soaring peaks, and humpback and minke whales feast on abundant krill. Early Antarctic explorers returned from their voyages to the deep south with tales of a magnificent, ice-covered land teeming with life—explore it in an active way with options for added-cost activities such as sea kayaking, scuba diving and polar snorkeling.
Highlights of each departure include seeing and hearing the bustling activity of a penguin city, chances to spot leopard seals on ice floes, Zodiac cruises in search of feeding and breaching whales and skipping one or two legs of the Drake Passage to maximize time in the White Continent. Be amazed by sea ice, humbled by icebergs, intrigued by Antarctic explorer history and amused by penguins.
Adventure- and conservation-minded expedition ships Douglas Mawson and Sylvia Earle serve as floating basecamps in Antarctica. These 130- to 154-guest-average small ships feature modern technology, state-of-the-art efficiency and nimble design for active off-ship excursions. Enjoy access to an unparalleled capacity and variety of adventure gear aboard these ice-breaker polar ships.
In addition to the main Fly/Fly itinerary which operates round-trip from Punta Arenas, Chile, select departures cruise one way, either starting (Cruise/Fly) or ending (Fly/Cruise) in Ushuaia, Argentina. “Wild Antarctica” departures add time in the Weddell Sea. “Antarctic Explorer Express” departures spend less time exploring the Peninsula. Each of the three itineraries (“Antarctic Explorer” with no Weddell Sea, “Antarctic Explorer Express” with no Weddell Sea and less time along the Peninsula, and “Wild Antarctica” with Weddell Sea) vary in length and opportunities to cruise the Drake Passage at least one-way; see Rates & Dates table for specific details of each departure. Select themed departures offer a focus on elevated cuisine, science, photography, or the chance for women to travel with women only.
Read on for details about this trip, or learn more about AdventureSmith’s Antarctica cruises and trips to Antarctica, including even more Antarctica fly cruises.
Fly Round-Trip Itinerary
Fly/Fly Polar Expedition voyages operate round-trip from Punta Arenas, Chile, featuring a flight both to and from King George Island in Antarctica and active programming along the South Shetland Islands and Antarctic Peninsula. The 10-day Fly/Fly “Antarctic Peninsula: Fly the Drake” itinerary is listed here; select 8-day departures spend less time exploring the Peninsula.
Arrive in Punta Arenas, be met by a representative and transferred to the group hotel downtown (preferred flights only). Upon arrival at the included hotel, visit the hospitality desk to request cabin tags from the ship staff, and label the tags with your name and ship cabin number. The representative will confirm details regarding your embarkation day, answer any questions and provide you with information about where to dine or purchase last-minute items.
Overlooking the Straits of Magellan, the city sits astride one of the world’s most historic trade routes. Today, Punta Arenas reflects a great mix of cultures, from English sheep ranchers to Portuguese sailors, and it remains an utterly fascinating testament to Chile’s rich history. Tonight, gather to meet fellow expeditioners and receive a briefing on the first leg of the expedition—the flight to Antarctica! Afterwards, there’s free time to enjoy the local cuisine at one of Punta Arenas’s many restaurants (dinner not included).
At 7:00pm this evening, meet your fellow expeditioners at a voyage briefing where staff will reconfirm your transfer times for tomorrow, explain the procedures for your flight to King George Island and outline important IAATO regulations for visitors to Antarctica.
This morning, be transferred to Punta Arenas airport for an early morning charter flight to King George Island, Antarctica (weather permitting). The flight will take approximately one-and-a-half hours. On arrival into King George Island the expedition team is on hand for greetings and a Zodiac transfer to board the vessel. Take time to settle into your cabin before important briefings.
Note: King George Island is located at the northern part of the Antarctic Peninsula in the South Shetland Islands and is one of the most remote places on Earth. A clear sky with perfect visibility is required in order for the plane to take off and land safely. Apologies in advance for any delays.
It’s almost impossible to describe the feeling of arriving in Antarctica. Spotting your first iceberg and taking a deep breath of some of the most fresh, crisp air on earth is an experience that will stay with you forever. Once you arrive, the western side of the Antarctic Peninsula and the South Shetland Islands are yours to explore, and you have a host of choices. Because you are so far south, you will experience approximately 18-24 hours of daylight and the days can be as busy as you wish.
Your experienced expedition team, who have made countless journeys to this area, will use their expertise to design your voyage from day to day, choosing the best options based on the prevailing weather, ice conditions and wildlife opportunities. Plan to generally make landings or Zodiac excursions twice a day. You will want to rug up before joining Zodiac cruises along spectacular ice cliffs or among grounded icebergs, keeping watch for whales, seals and porpoising penguins. Zodiacs will also transport you from the ship to land, where you can visit penguin rookeries, discover historic huts and explore some traveler favorite spots along the peninsula.
While ashore, aim to stretch your legs, wandering along pebbly beaches or perhaps up snow-covered ridgelines to vantage points with mountains towering overhead and ice-speckled oceans below. If you have chosen an optional activity, you will have the option to do that whenever conditions allow, and of course keen polar plungers will have the chance to fully immerse themselves in polar waters—conditions permitting!
In addition to Zodiac cruises and shore excursions, you may ship cruise some of the narrow, dramatic straits
separating offshore islands from the mainland, or linger in scenic bays to watch whales travelling or feeding. Keep an ear out for the creak and deep rumble of glaciers as they carve their way from summit to sea. Take a quiet moment to experience the wonder of this incredible white continent.
As the ship approaches Frei Base on King George Island, it is time to say farewell to Antarctica and an amazing adventure before boarding the flight (approximately one hour and 45 minutes) to Punta Arenas, Chile. There is time for reflection and discussion about what you have seen and experienced. Consider becoming an ambassador for Antarctica by telling your family, friends and colleagues about your journey to this magical place, advocating for its conservation and preservation so that they might one day visit the region to experience what you have been lucky to see and do here. From the Punta Arenas airport, you will be transferred to the group hotel for an overnight stay.
Note: King George Island is located at the northern tip of the Antarctic Peninsula in the South Shetland Islands and is one of the most remote places on Earth. A clear sky with perfect visibility is required in order to take off and land safely. Apologies in advance for any delays.
After breakfast, bid a fond farewell to fellow travelers as everyone continues onward journeys, hopefully with a newfound sense of the immense power of nature. A transfer to the airport is included.
Included
Arrival transfer from airport to hotel on Day 1 (for guests arriving on preferred flights, which includes any flight arriving by 2:00pm on Day 1); two nights’ hotel accommodation in Punta Arenas on Day 1 & disembarkation day (with breakfast on day immediately following); transfer from hotel to airport in Punta Arenas on Day 2 & final day; round-trip flights between Punta Arenas and King George Island on Day 2 & disembarkation day; transfer to hotel in Punta Arenas on disembarkation day; onboard accommodation during voyage including daily cabin service; all meals, snacks, tea, coffee, soft drinks and juices during voyage; beer and house wine with dinner; captain’s welcome and farewell reception including four-course dinner, house cocktails, house beer and wine, non-alcoholic beverages; all shore excursions and Zodiac cruises; educational lectures and guiding services from expedition team; complimentary access to onboard expedition doctor and medical clinic (initial consult); a 3-in-1 waterproof polar expedition jacket; complimentary use of muck boots during the voyage; comprehensive pre-departure information; port surcharges, permits and landing fees; WiFi (where connection is possible); crew gratuities (suite guests only).
Exclusions
International or domestic flights, unless specified; transfers not mentioned in the itinerary; airport arrival or departure taxes; passport, visa, reciprocity and vaccination charges; travel insurance, emergency evacuation charges or personal insurance (required); hotels and meals not included in itinerary; optional excursions not included in the itinerary; optional activity surcharges; all items of a personal nature including but not limited to: alcoholic beverages and soft drinks (outside of dinner service), laundry services, personal clothing, medical expenses or phone charges; automatic crew gratuities of $15 per person, per day (non-suite guests) which may be removed or amended at the end of the cruise.
Payment & Cancellation
In order to confirm this trip, a nonrefundable deposit of 25% of the total trip cost is required per person at time of booking (additional nonrefundable $250 deposit is required for optional activities). The balance of the trip price is due 120 days before the departure date. Special holiday payment and cancellation terms may apply. Guests who must cancel their trip for any reason must do so in writing. Standard cancellations are subject to the following per-person penalties, based on number of days prior to departure:
120 days or more – 100% of deposit
119 to 0 days – 100% of total trip cost
Terms & Conditions
This trip is subject to AdventureSmith Explorations Terms and Conditions. Please read this information carefully and call us if you have any questions. A Traveler Information Form, which includes a release of liability, must be completed and signed by all travelers. Your Adventure Specialist will send you a unique link to complete this form along with a packing list and extensive pre-departure and travel insurance information upon booking confirmation.
Arrival & Departure
The main, Fly Round-Trip voyage begins and ends in Punta Arenas, Chile (PUQ). We highly recommend arriving one day prior to your trip start date in case of any flight delay, cancellation or lost luggage issues. Plan flights to arrive to Punta Arenas by 2:00pm Day 1, in order to attend an evening briefing. An arrival transfer from the Punta Arenas airport to the group hotel is included (for guests arriving on preferred flights, which includes any flight arriving by 2:00pm on Day 1). Plan flights to depart Punta Arenas at any time on the final day; a transfer is included. If you would like assistance with international flights, please visit our Booking Flights resource page.
Internal Flights
Round-trip charter flights between Punta Arenas and King George Island are included on this itinerary. At Frei Base airfield on King George Island, travelers are required to walk approximately 1 mile between the vessel mooring and the airplane (20-30 minutes). Checked luggage will be transferred to the vessel by staff. If you think that you will not be able to walk this distance, then please inform your Adventure Specialist.
There is a strict luggage limit of one checked piece of luggage under 20 kg (44 lb.) and one carry-on under 7 kg (15 lb.) on the flight between Punta Arenas and King George Island. Note that the overhead bins of a BAE146 are substantially smaller than those on a regular commercial flight; dimensions are Height: 45 cm / Width: 40 cm / Depth: 20 cm. Should you have additional luggage, it can be stored at the hotel in Punta Arenas. There is no option to pay for additional luggage.
Activities
Various optional activities may be available on your Fly Round-Trip voyage. Photography tips are included on every departure. Per-person prices: kayaking $1,030(2026-27) or $1,050(2027-28) (20 persons max); polar diving $1,095(2026-27); polar snorkeling $515(2026-27) or $675(2027-28) (minimum 6 persons required); paddling $480(2026-27) or $350(2027-28) (6 persons max). Please contact AdventureSmith for details on which activities are available on your specific departure date and to reserve space with your booking.
Room Configuration
Single travelers wishing to book a double-occupancy cabin may do so at a 50% supplement of the per-person listed rate in select cabins upon availability. Select double-occupancy cabins are available with no single supplement; inquire with your Adventure Specialist for details and availability. Solo travelers willing to share may be matched with a person of the same gender, and if the other cabin berth goes unsold, will only pay the standard double-occupancy rate.
Families & Children
Kids 8 years and older are welcomed aboard all departure dates. Children between 8-17 years of age must pay the adult price of the expedition.
Travel Insurance
A medical form for all travelers, signed by their doctor, is required for every departure. Comprehensive travel insurance is mandatory for this trip, with a minimum required coverage of $250,000 USD per person, covering medical, accident and repatriation/emergency evacuation, as well as baggage loss and cancellation or curtailment of holiday. In addition, we highly recommend our travelers protect their investment with travel insurance that includes trip cancellation and other benefits. Our partners at Travelex Insurance offer a variety of plans and policies to fit every trip and budget. For best value and coverage for pre-existing medical conditions, consider purchasing a policy at time of booking. Learn more about travel insurance or get a free quote.
Itinerary Notes
Read this itinerary as a guide only; the exact route and program varies according to ice, weather conditions, wildlife encountered and the captain’s discretion. Flexibility is the key to the success of any Antarctica expedition. Visits to research stations depend on final permission.
Contingency Plan
In the unlikely event that the flight to Antarctica cannot take place on the scheduled day due to unfavorable weather conditions, a Contingency Plan, included in the cost of your expedition, will apply. The primary goal of the plan is to provide an engaging and comfortable travel experience while adapting to the weather. A change in the flight schedule can impact travel to Antarctica or the return back, and the plan includes a range of activities determined by the circumstances. Additionally, the Contingency Plan offers an opportunity to rebook should weather conditions prevent you from reaching Antarctica. Please read the full Contingency Plan and contact your Adventure Specialist for more details.
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The Sylvia Earle is an adventure-ready polar expedition ship and sister ship to the Greg Mortimer and Douglas Mawson. This modern ship honors the highly accomplished marine biologist, oceanographer and explorer Sylvia Earle. Sylvia Earle was first female chief scientist of the U.S. National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, and named by Time Magazine as its first Hero for the Planet in 1998. The ship plays tribute to her longstanding conservation efforts for marine protected areas and ocean wildlife by boasting one of the lowest-polluting marine engines in the world due to low energy consumption, high fuel-efficiency and a streamlined design. She is at the cutting edge of nautical technology: robust, powerful and designed for rugged, remote areas. Pair this with her interior comforts and extensive menu of active off-ship excursions and you have the perfect package for an expedition experience.
Why Sail Aboard Sylvia Earle
Choose the Sylvia Earle for her spirit of exploration, commitment to responsible travel and focus on active excursions. Stemming from 25 years of polar expertise, her design enables unique vantages, well-thought spaces to prepare for outings, efficient means of on- and off-boarding guests for outdoor adventures, and increased comfort and efficiency. The Sylvia Earle offers the ideal base camp for adventures at the outer limits of human exploration.
Read our dedicated Sylvia Earle Ship Review or consult this page further for a detailed description of the Sylvia Earle ship, including ship specs, deck plan, cabin images and a photo gallery. We can help compare the Sylvia Earle ship with others offering Northern Europe small ship cruises, small ship Mediterranean cruises, Chile cruises, Patagonia cruises, Arctic cruises, Iceland cruises, Greenland cruises, Canada cruises, Antarctica cruises and Antarctica air cruise itineraries. Find an Antarctica ship or other expedition ships with our expertise.
Design, Sustainability & Accessibility Aboard Sylvia Earle
Designed and built by the Norwegian ship builders Ulstein Group, Sylvia Earle is the second in her fleet to sail with the patented ULSTEIN X-BOW®, whose inverted bow design, in combination with Rolls Royce dynamic stabilizers offers unrivaled stability and comfort on ocean crossings. The Ulstein X-BOW® cuts through the swell, minimizing vibrations and disturbances, and makes quicker transits through waves. With this state-of-the-art design, Sylvia Earle offers more comfortable cruising in rough seas while also moving among landing sites more efficiently and lessening the ship's environmental impact thanks to reduced fuel consumption by up to 80% compared to older ships. This bow design also creates space for windows close to the water, enabling guests to view straight ahead and down into the ocean from a vantage point not possible with older ships that feature a traditional bulbous bow.
Combine the bow design with her unique two-level glass atrium lounge and multiple observation decks, and Sylvia Earle is a top choice for onboard viewing of the surrounding polar environment. The ship also features virtual anchoring to hold its position using a combination of GPS, steering technology, propellers and thrusters, thus protecting the sea floor and minimizing the damage caused by conventional anchors. On-board desalination plants convert seawater to fresh water that is safe to drink so the ship can carry less fresh water on sea crossings, further reducing fuel consumption. In 2025, Sylvia Earle successfully carried out its first trial of burning marine biofuel (hydrotreated vegetable oil (HVO). Finally, Sylvia Earle offers accessibility via an elevator serving all six guest decks, as well as select cabins that feature a wheelchair-accessible configuration.
Common Areas Aboard Sylvia Earle
Communal meeting areas play a major role in fostering the warm camaraderie on board Sylvia Earle. They are the heart of the expedition, where guests meet to share tales from the day, swap photos, keep an eye out for wildlife and watch the sun go down. Unique to this ship, each public deck bears the name of a pioneering female conservationist, including: Dr. Carden Wallace AM (coral conservationist), Joanna Ruxton (plastic-free pioneer), Sharon Kwok (future generation educator), Bernadette Demientieff (arctic wildlife guardian) and Dr. Sylvia Earle herself.
The bars and lounges on board Sylvia Earle are refined yet inviting places to gather, with floor-to-ceiling windows offering stunning views, and of course friendly bartenders to shoot the breeze with. A highlight of the ship is her unique two-level glass atrium lounge stretching from the floor of Deck 5 to the ceiling of Deck 6, and offer stunning panoramic view from the bow on both the port and starboard sides. In polar regions this means that passengers will be able to appreciate the majesty of an iceberg immediately as it appears on the horizon. The fore of Decks 7 and 8 features a teak, wraparound observation deck, extending onto outdoor walkways along both sides of Deck 8. Walk inside at the front of Deck 8 to enjoy an enclosed observation lounge with bars, panoramic windows, wildlife guides, books, binoculars and a set up that encourages passengers to relax and share the day's highlights with newfound friends. The back of Deck 7 offers a large sun deck with a heated saltwater open-air swimming pool and two Jacuzzis. Finally, enjoy satellite WiFi throughout the ship and a fully-stocked medical clinic, ready to help with ailments during each voyage.
Dining Aboard Sylvia Earle
Whatever adventures the day holds, guests are fueled-up with hearty meals and delicious morning and afternoon teas prepared by onboard chefs. Sylvia Earle features two restaurants on Deck 8: the main venue, Gentoo serving buffet-style breakfast and lunches with à la carte dinner, and a reservations-required restaurant, the Rockhopper hosting a steakhouse-style dinner. The elegant-yet-casual dining options feature tables of various sizes and configurations to accommodate groups of varying sizes. Viewing windows keep the polar environment in sight while guests dine. Tea, coffee and snacks are available 24 hours a day. Enjoy a variety of house wine, beers and soft drinks while aboard.
Activities Aboard Sylvia Earle
Activities play a major part in the Sylvia Earle experience and her thoughtful design encourages a true sense of exploration. Offering a large selection of optional activities to make the most of the adventure, the ship lets guests choose from expert-led kayak expeditions, mountaineering, snowshoeing, ski/snowboard touring, polar snorkeling and diving, hiking and exploration by Zodiac. The specially-designed mudroom provides each guest with an open locker storage area for boots, jacket, personal flotation device and other outerwear, removing the need to store these wet items in one's cabin. Rapid drying areas for dry suits and wetsuits provide the best opportunity for gear to dry out between outings. The mudroom also features biosecurity clearance zones for washing and cleaning boots or outerwear as required, to ensure the polar surroundings remain pristine. Activity preparation areas and four dedicated, sea-level Zodiac loading platforms along both sides as well as the rear of the ship enable efficient ship-to-shore operations for the 15 Zodiacs carried on board.
Located at the heart of the ship and featuring floor-to-ceiling windows, the library is a peaceful sanctuary stocked with polar literature about pioneering explorers, wildlife and more to inspire and inform. The library also features space to organize photos and board games to engage with other guests over. The gym enables guests to maintain fitness routines with weight machines, spin bikes and treadmills. Relaxing treatments in the Wellness Center spa encourage one to unwind after a day in the polar elements, as does the wooden sauna with a floor-length viewing window. The ship's shop provides memorable gifts to bring back home and also supplies crucial forgotten items. The lecture theater and lounge is a large indoor theater used regularly to provide the full complement of guests with educational talks and informative briefings on topics including history, wildlife, climate and daily activities.
Crew & Guides Aboard Sylvia Earle
The 14-19 expedition guides aboard each departure help create a focus on immersion into the polar wilds in which the ship sails. In keeping with Sylvia’s own vision and achievements, the Sylvia Earle expedition ship also has a large focus on marine education and conservation with marine researchers, scientists and conservationists also aboard the voyage. Join the team in the lecture theater for educational and entertaining topics on history and culture, biology and climate. Naturalists and local specialists aim to deepen passengers' understanding of the region in which they're traveling. Each departure's 71-80 well-trained, international crew members are ready to make polar dreams come true, with an eye for detail and a passion for fun.
Cabins & Deck Plan Aboard Sylvia Earle
All 71 cabins are comfortable, with neutral tones, pops of nautical blue and earthy touches of wood and stone. A generous 80% of Sylvia Earle's cabins will include a private balcony, 60% can accommodate a third guest and the ship will feature over 20 interconnecting balcony staterooms. Each stateroom or suite offers the option of one king-size bed or two twin beds, private ensuite bathroom, room-controlled thermostat, safe, 42-inch flat-screen TV, desk area, closet space, one mug and drink bottle per guest, and electrical outlets serving 220 volts, 60 hertz AC via a universal plug.
The Douglas Mawson is a brand new expedition ship, launched in Antarctica December 2025. Joining sibling ships Sylvia Earle and Greg Mortimer, Douglas Mawson promises an active, educational and comfort-focused experience on its global departures. This state-of-the-art ship pays tribute to the legendary Australian geologist and explorer Sir Douglas Mawson, with tools and gear for off-ship adventure, plus design for a smooth and comfortable onboard experience. The ship was named in TIME's list of the World’s Greatest Places for 2026.
Why Sail Aboard Douglas Mawson
Choose the Douglas Mawson for its adventure-forward, comfortable and thoughtful design. The third in a line of exploration-focused, Infinity Class ships, Douglas Mawson features elements from over three decades of expedition cruising: the latest X-Bow® technology, a mudroom, a sauna, Zodiac boarding platforms, eco-friendly elements, and cabins accommodating doubles, triples and singles.
AdventureSmith Explorations has been aboard this ship firsthand: read our Douglas Mawson ship review. Or consult this page for a detailed description of the Douglas Mawson ship, including ship specs, deck plan, cabin images and a photo gallery. We can help compare the Douglas Mawson ship with others offering Antarctica cruises, Falkland Islands & South Georgia cruises, Arctic cruises, New Zealand small ship cruises, small ship cruises in Australia, small ship cruises in Northern Europe, Italy small ship cruises, Greek Island small ship cruises and small ship Mediterranean cruises. Find an Antarctica ship or other expedition ships with our expertise.
Design, Sustainability & Accessibility
Douglas Mawson is a ship that incorporates lessons learned from over 30 years of exploration, plus the cutting-edge technologies of Norwegian ship builders Ulstein Group. Expect a smoother ride than most ships, education-focused spaces, plenty of common areas that bring the outside in, and a platform for both activity and relaxation.
Ulstein X-BOW®
Douglas Mawson's inverted X-BOW® hull offers guests a more stable experience while the ship is underway, along with increased efficiency with its ability to slice through waves. An added benefit is the ability to put view windows closer to the waterline, for improved wildlife viewing.
Activity Preparation Areas
Douglas Mawson features purpose-built zones to enable efficient ship-to-shore (or paddle) activities. Two Zodiac embarkation zones get travelers off faster on multiple daily excursions, while a rear activity launchpad makes room for kayakers to come and go at the same time. A mudroom with assigned lockers keeps expedition wear organized and out of one's cabin. And the Assembly Station offers plenty of space for groups to gather initially.
Advanced Tech Features
The Douglas Mawson cruise ship features leading safety technology, including an operating system back-up, dynamic positioning, Zero Speed™ stabilizers and diesel electric hybrid engines for energy optimization. The Douglas Mawson also employs reusable tech such as engine waste heat recovery for interior warming and microplastic capture filtration for all on-board clothes washing machines. The ship also offers a medical clinic ready for treatments in remote areas.
Onboard Facilities
The Douglas Mawson small ship features inviting spaces cleverly designed with over 30 years of expedition cruising by its Australian operator, B-Corp-certified Aurora Expeditions. Onboard facilities include two restaurants, a gym and sauna, a heated outdoor plunge pool and pool bar, two sun deck Jacuzzis, a citizen science center and library, and plenty of observation areas.
Lecture Theater
The Douglas Mawson cruise ship engages travelers through both off-ship exploration and on-ship enrichment. A robust series of informative lectures takes place in the theater on Deck 4—a space big enough to accommodate the entire passenger complement, itself complemented by an adjacent bar. Noted biologists, geologists, glaciologists and more provide regular talks to inform on the nature and wildlife experienced each day.
Dining, Bars & Lounges
With a formal dining room on Deck 5 and Deck's 8's "The Hut" (a casual top-deck restaurant with ala carte options and added outdoor picnic tables), the Douglas Mawson ship has dining options for all. Rotating menus are international in flavor and served buffet style for breakfast and lunch, and plated for dinner. Beer, house wine and soft drinks are included with dinner. Snacks, tea and coffee are made available around the clock. Guests can also opt for quicker, self-service buffet at the top-deck restaurant, which features sweeping views and both indoor and outdoor seating.
The top deck bar and observation lounge provides 180 degrees of glass, in a chic environment that's accessible to all via a ramp. The lounge offers a full bar including expresso station, a reference library, binoculars to borrow, and more comfortable seating for individuals or small groups. The open-air seating areas on Decks 7 (with barbecue) and 8 are protected by a shade structure and thoughtfully located at the back of the ship, out of any headwinds.
Pool, Jacuzzis, Sauna & Gym
Deck 7 features an outdoor sun deck that's ripe for relaxation between explorations, dining and lectures. A plunge pool centers the space, available when the ship is not underway. Two Jacuzzis round out each back corner, offering spectacular views. Plenty of cushioned benches invite guests to lounge, either in the shade or full sun. Step inside for wellness amenities including a large, hot-stone cedar sauna and a gym lined with a wall of windows. Gym equipment includes elliptical machines, spin bikes, treadmills, a rowing machine, weight machines, benches, free weights, yoga mats and more. Walking enthusiasts will appreciate the loop from Deck 8 forward to Deck 7 aft.
Citizen Science Center & Library
Deck 5's citizen science center, library and glass atrium lounge (the latter split between Deck 5 and 6 by an elegant staircase) are a defining feature of the Douglas Mawson ship. Travelers can learn to use research tools like microscopes and contribute towards reporting efforts to help researchers monitor the health of wildlife and remote landscapes. A well-stocked library adds to one's understanding of the locales through which Douglas Mawson sails, including reference books, travel journals, novels and a selection of children’s books and board games.
Mudroom & Other Facilities
Deck 3's mudroom provides open-concept lockers and bench seating for guests to prepare for and return from regular off-ship explorations. Personal flotation devices, outerwear, boots and other clothing can be stored here between outings.
Other Douglas Mawson amenities include satellite internet, offered throughout the ship; an elevator that accesses all passenger decks; an Expedition Desk staffed by naturalist guides; a shop stocked with keepsakes and travel essentials; an open bridge, where guests can interact with captain and/or navigational crew when the seas are fair; and a Reception Desk for any needs during the trip.
Off-Ship Activities
In keeping with its adventurous namesake, the Douglas Mawson expedition ship offers a plethora of off-ship activities. All guests are treated to Zodiac cruises, walks and hikes on shore, and opportunities for birding and photography. Select departures may also offer sea kayaking, one-time paddling, camping, snowshoeing, snorkeling, diving, ski and snowboard touring, stand-up paddleboarding, mountaineering and rock climbing. Part of the expedition team is comprised of experts in these activities, ready to guide you in the field.
The ship's multiple Zodiac launch bays provides efficiency in getting guests on and off the ship, and their locations on both port and starboard enables flexibility when weather is present (as do the ship's stabilizer fins, which provide roll reduction even when the vessel is not underway). There are no ladders or gangways to navigate; passengers descend full-size tread and riser stairs, and load directly into the Zodiac.
Crew & Expedition Guides
The 13-23 expedition team members aboard Douglas Mawson are some of the industry's best; ask them for exciting stories from their discipline, or fun facts about the wildlife they're spotting alongside you. Expedition guides on Douglas Mawson are an ever-present fountain of knowledge; don't miss an opportunity to dine together as seating is open and dining hours are the same for everyone on board.
A robust deck & engine crew of 24 keep the Douglas Mawson small ship moving as planned, while a hotel team of 47-56 ensure that all guests are well attended to. With its modern technologies, Australian-inspired hospitality and thoughtful design, the Douglas Mawson ship attracts experienced crew from around the world.
Cabins & Douglas Mawson Deck Plan
The Douglas Mawson cruise ship features a wide variety of categories and configurations among its 86 cabins. Choose from 11 categories across Decks 3, 4, 6 and 7. Most cabins feature twin or king bedding (single cabins only offer a twin bed). An impressive 79% of Douglas Mawson cabins include a private balcony, and groups wanting shared cabin space have a wide selection of 58 interconnecting Balcony Staterooms to choose from. Additionally, two disability accessible staterooms include handrails and large bathrooms with a more accessible shower. The two triple cabins can accommodate a third person (triple and single share on request).
All cabins feature Nordic interior design and come equipped with a private bathroom, closet, individual thermostat, flat-screen TV, desk and/or sitting area, safety deposit box, one mug and drink bottle per guest, and mini bar (added cost in most cabins). Electricity is 220 volts, 60 hertz via a universal plug.
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Learn About the Small Ships on Your Itinerary
Sylvia Earle offers a robust menu of adventure activities from kayaking and polar diving to mountaineering and camping. Cruise responsibly knowing this brand new icebreaker polar expedition ship was built with cutting edge nautical technology including one of the lowest polluting marine engines in the world.
Book onto this brand new expedition ship—launched December 2025—to enjoy adventure-ready, sustainable, comfortable and cutting-edge design. Expect skilled and knowledgeable guides who share the same passion for exploration as the ship's namesake.
Hear It from Travelers Who Have Explored with Us
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Reviews From Our Experts So You Know What To Expect
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Expert Aboard: Douglas Mawson Ship Review
Our Director of Operations was aboard the inaugural sailing of the Douglas Mawson. Read on for his insight on what makes this 154-guest vessel stand out.
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Expert Aboard: Sylvia Earle Ship Review
What's it like aboard the Sylvia Earle ship? Learn about the service, sustainability, smooth ride, tips for choosing your cabin and more. Our expert's insights from her voyage in Antarctica will help you decide whether this ship's right for you, no matter where in the world she's sailing.
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8 Things I Learned Flying to Antarctica
Considering flying to Antarctica? Read firsthand tips on air cruises, from flight logistics and weather delays to what to pack and how to plan for a smoother trip.
Additional Travel Options Before or After Your Air Cruise
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Patagonian Explorer – Ushuaia to Punta Arenas
Classic, time-saving cruise through fjords, glaciers & historic channels
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Fjords of Tierra del Fuego – Punta Arenas to Ushuaia
Quintessential, compact cruise for scenic fjords & soft adventure
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No single supplement
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Explora Torres del Paine
Tailor-made adventure via a luxury Patagonia lodge
Planning Your Trip to Antarctica
View All Antarctica Travel Guides-
Antarctica Travel Guide
There are more small ships than ever cruising Antarctica with vessels and itinerary options for every style and budget. This up-to-date guide culls the best tips for a comprehensive look at Antarctica travel today.
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Things to Do in Antarctica
Learn about things to do in Antarctica, and how our experts can help you achieve your bucket list activities. Antarctica has so much to offer and our small ship cruise lines focus on experiencing the White Continent in an active, up-close way; here we explain how.
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Best Time to Visit Antarctica
When is the best time to go to Antarctica? On the White Continent, the answer isn’t so black-and-white. Consult this month-by-month list covering everything from penguins to pack ice to help guide your travel timing.
Trips You Might Also Like
View All Antarctica Air Cruises
Save up to 15%
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Antarctic Express: Fly the Drake
A time-smart Peninsula fly cruise with active options
Antarctica Air Cruise
The original air-cruise with refined ships and logistics
Save 5% on groups
+1
National Geographic Antarctica Direct
Fly the Drake and explore with Nat Geo’s top expedition team
Our experts will save you hours.
A single conversation with us is worth hours of internet scrolling. Find your next best trip with ease, then book with the confidence of our 20+ year experience.
