National Geographic Antarctica, South Georgia & The Falklands
On this comprehensive voyage, visit wild South Georgia, the historical Falklands and the Antarctic Peninsula aboard National Geographic vessels: 138-guest Endurance or Resolution, or 148-guest Explorer, with expert naturalist guides.
Throughout this National Geographic Antarctica, South Georgia & The Falklands voyage, learn from a truly expert staff, whose decades of exploring Antarctica and the surrounding regions have revealed important landing sites beyond the Antarctic Peninsula. Explore the wildlife-rich Falkland Islands and South Georgia, perhaps the ultimate destination for jaw-dropping scenery. Witness boundless wildlife on the Antarctic Peninsula and understand the captivating history of Ernest Shackleton and his crew. Walk wild beaches as tens of thousands of gentoo, rockhopper and king penguins go about their busy lives, calling for mates and flashing their bright colors in their courtship rituals. Take a rugged hike across ice tundras and float by Zodiac and kayak between icebergs and whales.
The National Geographic Antarctica, South Georgia & The Falklands expedition covers a lengthy itinerary aboard small expedition ships, with kayaking included in the cost—a rare inclusion for polar expeditions! The main itinerary operates clockwise, visiting the Falkland Islands before South Georgia and Antarctica, sailing round-trip from Ushuaia, Argentina. Select modified departures operate in reverse (counterclockwise, starting with Antarctica). Departures aboard the National Geographic Endurance and the National Geographic Explorer connect via charter flights originating from, and finishing back in, Buenos Aires, Argentina. Departures aboard the National Geographic Resolution begin and end with charter flights originating from, and returning back to, Santiago, Chile.
The 148-guest Nat Geo Explorer, 138-guest Nat Geo Endurance and 138-guest Nat Geo Resolution act as floating basecamps during the voyage. All three small expedition ships are technologically advanced, fully stabilized and equipped with a full set of exploration tools, including an ROV and enough kayaks and Zodiacs to send all guests out exploring at the same time. Additionally, select cabins on each vessel offer private balconies for special moments taking in the awe-inspiring wilderness. Not to mention the bar tab is included for all passengers. The National Geographic Explorer boasts a top speed of 18 knots, making her one of the fastest ships plying polar waters. The new, purpose-built sister ships National Geographic Endurance and National Geographic Resolution venture deeper, paired with state-of-the-art educational equipment and highly qualified guides, for an in-depth intellectual and truly exploratory experience that make them ideal candidates for luxury Antarctica cruises.
Exploring Antarctica, South Georgia & Falkland Islands in such a comprehensive voyage by expedition ship will affect the way you tell stories about travel and wildlife adventures for years to come. Call the Antarctica experts at AdventureSmith Explorations to discuss your next Antarctica expedition cruise.
Read on for details about this trip, or learn more about AdventureSmith’s Antarctica cruises and South Georgia cruises.
Southbound National Geographic Antarctica, South Georgia & The Falklands Itinerary
The southbound departures operate clockwise, visiting the Falkland Islands before South Georgia and Antarctica, and sail round-trip from Ushuaia, Argentina.
Arrive in Buenos Aires, the cosmopolitan capital of Argentina (Endurance & Explorer) or Santiago, Chile’s mountainous capital (Resolution).
In Buenos Aires: Transfer from the airport to the Alvear Art, or similar.
In Santiago: Transfer to the Ritz-Carlton, Santiago, or similar.
Today fly south to Ushuaia, the southernmost city in the world, where you meet your ship. Ushuaia’s spectacular setting, between the jagged peaks of the Darwin Range and the protected waters of the Beagle Channel, makes it an appropriately wild place to begin your journey to the White Continent and a great destination in its own right. While you’re there, visit Tierra del Fuego National Park. Lunch will be served onboard a private catamaran while cruising the Beagle Channel, where you’ll be on the lookout for huge South American sea lions and birds like imperial cormorants.
Settle into shipboard life as you sail to the Falkland Islands. Keep a lookout for albatross that glide alongside the ship.
Everything about expedition travel seems to come together in the western Falkland Islands. Where else can you land on a beach tucked into a rocky cove, hike out across a rolling green pasture and suddenly find yourself at the crest of a sea cliff looking out over the South Atlantic surf? Just a few steps further and you’re standing at the edge of a breeding colony of black-browed albatross, so close that you can hear the wind on their wings as they swoop in to land beside you. Check out the thousands of irresistible gentoo, rockhopper and Magellanic penguins that congregate here, along with fur seals.
Stanley, the bright, pretty capital of the Falkland Islands, is a wonderfully unexpected place: a charming outpost of British culture tucked into a small bay on the shore of these windswept islands in the far South Atlantic. Many Falkland Islanders still live in very traditional ways, and you’ll have a chance to visit a small farm to see some expert sheep shearing and learn about the best techniques for cutting blocks of peat for the fire. The rocky hills and white sand beaches outside town offer some excellent hikes, and afterward, a cup of tea or a pint at the local tavern goes down very nicely.
With whales beneath and birds above, continue toward South Georgia Island. Your naturalists will prepare you for the exciting days ahead with presentations on the wildlife of South Georgia and, of course, the inspiring story of Sir Ernest Shackleton and the Endurance.
Simply put, there is nowhere else in the world like South Georgia. King penguins, the second largest species in the world, are unquestionably the most iconic wildlife of South Georgia. Exact numbers are not known, but the largest single colony on the island may have as many as 500,000 of these amazing birds nesting together on a single two-mile-long beach.
Explore the spectacular coastline of South Georgia Island. In keeping with the nature of an expedition, your schedule is flexible with opportunities for walking, hiking, kayaking and Zodiac excursions. Sailing along the coast, the plan is activities every day including visits to Grytviken—the final resting place of Shackleton—and Stromness Harbor, where Ernest Shackleton, Tom Crean and Frank Worsley finally reached aid at a whaling station.
The island is also home to huge elephant seals and thousands of king penguins. South Georgia is sometimes called “the Serengeti of the Southern Ocean,” but even that description seems inadequate; this lonely island is unique in the world, so rich and so beautiful that it defies any comparison.
As you voyage, head up to the Bridge to watch for icebergs and observe expert navigation at work as your skilled captain and officers sail these historic waters. There’ll also be time to enjoy a massage in the wellness center, work out in the gym and browse in the library. Each day your naturalists offer talks that add depth to your experience.
With long hours of daylight at this time of year, enjoy ample opportunities to explore. Your schedule is flexible, allowing you to take advantage of the unexpected. You might set out by kayak to encounter towering icebergs at water level; embark on a Zodiac excursion in search of seals and blue-eyed shags; walk amid thousands of Adélie and gentoo penguins; or experience the thrill of the ship crunching through pack ice. Everywhere you go in Antarctica you’re surrounded by opportunities to capture uniquely beautiful images. Along the way your expert expedition team will enrich your experiences.
This 500-mile-wide strait between the Antarctic Peninsula and South America is one of the most famous bodies of water in the world. Sometimes ferocious, sometimes flat calm, the Drake is always a fascinating place in its own right. This part of the journey is your best opportunity to see gorgeous seabirds like the wandering albatross, and you might be lucky enough to encounter orca whales or rare species of dolphins. Visit the Bridge (a great place to spot wildlife), have a relaxing massage, attend a talk about the biology of the penguins you’ve just seen, or settle into a comfy chair in the observation lounge to look out over the waves and reflect on your incredible journey. Toast your epic voyage at a festive farewell dinner.
Disembark in Ushuaia. Fly by private charter flight to Buenos Aires (NG Explorer, NG Endurance) or Santiago (NG Resolution) and connect with your flight home.
Included
Expedition parka to keep; all accommodations; all meals as indicated; beer, wine & full bar; excursions; services of expedition leader, naturalist staff and expert guides; use of kayaks; entrance fees; all port charges and service taxes; basic WiFi (enhanced and premium packages available for purchase). Gratuities for all departures of National Geographic Explorer, Orion, Endurance, Resolution, Sea Cloud, Jahan and Lord of the Glens.
Exclusions
Mandatory charter flights between Ushuaia and Buenos Aires/Santiago (inquire for pricing); immigration fees; air transportation; extensions; meals not indicated; reserve wines & premium spirits; gratuities for all departures of Delfin II, Endeavour II, Islander II, Venture, Quest, Sea Bird and Sea Lion; personal items such as emails, laundry, voyage DVD, etc.; and insurance of any kind.
Payment & Cancellation
In order to confirm this trip, a deposit of 15% of the total trip cost is required per person at time of booking. The balance of the trip price is due 120 days before the departure date. Guests who must cancel their trip for any reason must do so in writing. Standard cancellations are subject to the following per-person fees, based on number of days prior to departure:
120 or more days – 100% of deposit**
119 to 90 days – 50% of total trip cost
89 to 0 days – 100% of total trip cost
**Advance payments will be credited in the form of a Lindblad Expeditions Travel Certificate, valid for 12 months from the date of cancellation, and which may only be applied towards final payment on any future booking.
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 southbound National Geographic Antarctica, South Georgia & The Falklands cruise begins and ends in either Buenos Aires, Argentina (EZE) for NG Explorer & NG Endurance departures, or Santiago, Chile (SCL) for NG Resolution departures. Round-trip charter flights are needed between Buenos Aires/Santiago and Ushuaia, Argentina (USH). Plan flights to arrive to to your arrival city by 11:30am on Day 1 of the itinerary. Plan flights to depart from your departure city no earlier than 9:00pm on the final day. If you would like assistance with international flights, please visit our Booking Flights resource page.
Internal Flights
Group charter flights between Buenos Aires/Santiago and Ushuaia, Argentina are required on this trip’s itinerary; see this trip’s Exclusions and inquire with an Adventure Specialist for pricing. There is a strict luggage limit of one or two checked bags weighing up to 51 lbs (23 kg) combined, and one carry-on bag weighing up to 17 lbs (7 kg) plus a personal item that can be stowed under the seat.
Activities
Activities included aboard this expedition include Zodiac cruises, hiking and kayaking. Other activities may include yoga and stretching, land treks, glacier viewing and wildlife observation. Special to departures in November/December is the option of cross-country skiing, dependent upon snowpack conditions and weather at that time.
Room Configuration
In addition to listed Solo cabin rates, select double-occupancy cabins may be available for single occupancy with a single supplement fee. Third person rates are available in designated triple occupancy cabins on National Geographic Explorer at 1.5x the per-person listed rate in select cabins based upon availability. If you would like to share accommodations with another guest of the same gender, we will be happy to try to accommodate you in select cabin categories. This program allows you to pay the per person double-occupancy rate whether or not a roommate is found. Contact AdventureSmith for further details and availability.
Families & Children
Skilled staff members trained with National Geographic Education organize activities that inspire curiosity in young people of all ages. Programming for kids may include activities like photo workshops, journaling, scavenger hunts, Zodiac-driving lessons, hands-on nature and science programming and kid-friendly menu options. See the Deals section of this trip for any applicable child discounts.
Travel Insurance
Emergency medical evacuation insurance is recommended but not mandatory for this trip. Trip cancellation insurance is optional but also highly recommended. 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.
Northbound National Geographic Antarctica, South Georgia & The Falklands Itinerary
The northbound departures operate counterclockwise, visiting Antarctica before South Georgia and the Falkland Islands, and sail round-trip from Ushuaia, Argentina.
Arrive in Buenos Aires, the cosmopolitan capital of Argentina (Endurance & Explorer) or Santiago, Chile’s mountainous capital (Resolution).
In Buenos Aires: Transfer from the airport to the Alvear Art, or similar.
In Santiago: Transfer to the Ritz-Carlton, Santiago, or similar.
Today fly south to Ushuaia, the southernmost city in the world, where you meet your ship. Ushuaia’s spectacular setting, between the jagged peaks of the Darwin Range and the protected waters of the Beagle Channel, makes it an appropriately wild place to begin your journey to the White Continent and a great destination in its own right. Lunch will be served onboard a private catamaran while cruising the Beagle Channel, where you’ll be on the lookout for huge South American sea lions and birds like imperial cormorants. Residents of Ushuaia often call their small city ‘El Fin Del Mundo’, The End of the World, but for you, it’s just the beginning.
This 500-mile-wide strait between South America and the Antarctic Peninsula is one of the most famous bodies of water in the world. Sometimes ferocious, sometimes flat calm, the Drake is always a fascinating place in its own right. This part of the journey is your best opportunity to see gorgeous seabirds like the wandering albatross, and you might be lucky enough to encounter killer whales or rare species of dolphins. This is also a day to get to know your ship and prepare for the adventures ahead. Visit the Bridge (a great place to spot wildlife), have a relaxing massage; attend a talk about the biology of the penguins you’ll soon be seeing; or settle into a comfy chair in the observation lounge, look out over the waves, and reflect on the incredible history of this fabled passage. If it does get a little rough, just take a couple of nice naps; you’ll be in Antarctica before you know it.
With long hours of daylight at this time of year, enjoy ample opportunities to explore. Your schedule is flexible, allowing you to take advantage of the unexpected. You might set out by kayak to encounter towering icebergs at water level; embark on a Zodiac excursion in search of seals and blue-eyed shags; walk amid thousands of Adélie and gentoo penguins; or experience the thrill of the ship crunching through pack ice. Everywhere you go in Antarctica you’re surrounded by opportunities to capture uniquely beautiful images. Along the way your expert expedition team will enrich your experiences.
Setting out from the South Shetland Islands to South Georgia, you are following in the wake of Sir Ernest Shackleton’s epic voyage in the James Caird across 800 miles of the wild and lonely Scotia Sea. But you won’t be lonely at all—these waters are home to a large and growing population of whales, including fin whales, southern right whales and even blue whales—the largest animal on Earth. Albatross and petrels wing past the ship, providing you with another wonderful challenge for photography, while presentations from the expedition team help to prepare you for the mind-bending wildlife spectacles of South Georgia.
Days at sea are not simply transits from one place to another; they are a very important part of this epic journey in their own right. The crossing from the Antarctic Peninsula to South Georgia gives you a chance to stop and breathe, to explore the amenities of the ship and to spend a little time contemplating all your new memories. Life-changing experiences tend to pile up on one another in the Antarctic, so slow down a bit and let it all settle in. This is a great time to catch up with your journal, enjoy a rejuvenating massage, or download and review all those hundreds (or thousands!) of photos. Get some rest, too—when you get to South Georgia, it’s going to be go, go, go!
Simply put, there is nowhere else in the world like South Georgia. King penguins, the second largest species in the world, are unquestionably the most iconic wildlife of South Georgia. Exact numbers are not known, but the largest single colony on the island may have as many as 500,000 of these amazing birds nesting together on a single two-mile-long beach.
Explore the spectacular coastline of South Georgia Island. In keeping with the nature of an expedition, your schedule is flexible with opportunities for walking, hiking, kayaking and Zodiac excursions. Sailing along the coast, the plan is activities every day including visits to Grytviken—the final resting place of Shackleton—and Stromness Harbor, where Ernest Shackleton, Tom Crean and Frank Worsley finally reached aid at a whaling station.
The island is also home to huge elephant seals and thousands of king penguins. South Georgia is sometimes called “the Serengeti of the Southern Ocean,” but even that description seems inadequate; this lonely island is unique in the world, so rich and so beautiful that it defies any comparison.
Your first day at sea on the way to the Falkland Islands is another opportunity to think back over the adventures of the past few days and make preparations for those soon to come. Spend some time chatting about your latest images with the National Geographic photography expert and learn to make them look their best in the digital darkroom. Put the finishing touches on your watercolor of that amazing iceberg or try to capture an albatross’s flight in a poem. Everyone needs to exhale a bit after a visit to South Georgia, so take a little time to explore the details of your own memories and share them with your shipmates.
The Bridge is the nerve center of the ship, in more ways than one. There’s always a congenial atmosphere there, whether you’ve come to ask one of the officers about navigation or just to sit and watch the world go by with binoculars in hand. The waters close to the Falkland Islands are rich with marine wildlife, so this is a great time to hang out with the naturalists and keep watch for rare dolphins or another beautiful species of albatross. All new sightings go up on the white board for the day’s record!
Everything about expedition travel seems to come together in the western Falkland Islands. Where else can you land on a beach tucked into a rocky cove, hike out across a rolling green pasture and suddenly find yourself at the crest of a sea cliff looking out over the South Atlantic surf? Just a few steps further and you’re standing at the edge of a breeding colony of black-browed albatross, so close that you can hear the wind on their wings as they swoop in to land beside you. Check out the thousands of irresistible gentoo, rockhopper and Magellanic penguins that congregate here, along with fur seals.
Stanley, the bright, pretty capital of the Falkland Islands, is a wonderfully unexpected place: a charming outpost of British culture tucked into a small bay on the shore of these windswept islands in the far South Atlantic. Many Falkland Islanders still live in very traditional ways, and you’ll have a chance to visit a small farm to see some expert sheep shearing and learn about the best techniques for cutting blocks of peat for the fire. The rocky hills and white sand beaches outside town offer some excellent hikes, and afterward, a cup of tea or a pint at the local tavern goes down very nicely.
The final day of your expedition takes you across the shallow waters of the Falklands Shelf, back to your starting point in Ushuaia. Attend presentations from the expedition staff on topics that help to sum up all the wonderful details of your experiences in the far south, and spend some time on deck enjoying the seabirds and dolphins that make these seas their home.
This is a day for contemplation as well. The Antarctic stays with you. Sometime soon, at a moment in the midst of a stressful day, you’ll remember the feeling of the polar wind, the sight of waves crashing against the blue wall of an iceberg, and the sound of the penguins calling to their chicks. It’s a little bit of peace that you’ll carry with you always.
Disembark in Ushuaia. Fly by private charter flight to Buenos Aires (NG Explorer, NG Endurance) or Santiago (NG Resolution) and connect with your flight home.
Included
Expedition parka to keep; all accommodations; all meals as indicated; beer, wine & full bar; excursions; services of expedition leader, naturalist staff and expert guides; use of kayaks; entrance fees; all port charges and service taxes; basic WiFi (enhanced and premium packages available for purchase). Gratuities for all departures of National Geographic Explorer, Orion, Endurance, Resolution, Sea Cloud, Jahan and Lord of the Glens.
Exclusions
Mandatory charter flights between Ushuaia and Buenos Aires/Santiago (inquire for pricing); immigration fees; air transportation; extensions; meals not indicated; reserve wines & premium spirits; gratuities for all departures of Delfin II, Endeavour II, Islander II, Venture, Quest, Sea Bird and Sea Lion; personal items such as emails, laundry, voyage DVD, etc.; and insurance of any kind.
Payment & Cancellation
In order to confirm this trip, a deposit of 15% of the total trip cost is required per person at time of booking. The balance of the trip price is due 120 days before the departure date. Guests who must cancel their trip for any reason must do so in writing. Standard cancellations are subject to the following per-person fees, based on number of days prior to departure:
120 or more days – 100% of deposit**
119 to 90 days – 50% of total trip cost
89 to 0 days – 100% of total trip cost
**Advance payments will be credited in the form of a Lindblad Expeditions Travel Certificate, valid for 12 months from the date of cancellation, and which may only be applied towards final payment on any future booking.
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 northbound National Geographic Antarctica, South Georgia & The Falklands cruise begins and ends in either Buenos Aires, Argentina (EZE) for NG Explorer & NG Endurance departures, or Santiago, Chile (SCL) for NG Resolution departures. Round-trip charter flights are needed between Buenos Aires/Santiago and Ushuaia, Argentina (USH). Plan flights to arrive to to your arrival city by 11:30am on Day 1 of the itinerary. Plan flights to depart from your departure city no earlier than 9:00pm on the final day. If you would like assistance with international flights, please visit our Booking Flights resource page.
Internal Flights
Group charter flights between Buenos Aires/Santiago and Ushuaia, Argentina are required on this trip’s itinerary; see this trip’s Exclusions and inquire with an Adventure Specialist for pricing. There is a strict luggage limit of one or two checked bags weighing up to 51 lbs (23 kg) combined, and one carry-on bag weighing up to 17 lbs (7 kg) plus a personal item that can be stowed under the seat.
Activities
Activities included aboard this expedition include Zodiac cruises, hiking and kayaking. Other activities may include yoga and stretching, land treks, glacier viewing and wildlife observation. Special to departures in November/December is the option of cross-country skiing, dependent upon snowpack conditions and weather at that time.
Room Configuration
In addition to listed Solo cabin rates, select double-occupancy cabins may be available for single occupancy with a single supplement fee. Third person rates are available in designated triple occupancy cabins on National Geographic Explorer at 1.5x the per-person listed rate in select cabins based upon availability. If you would like to share accommodations with another guest of the same gender, we will be happy to try to accommodate you in select cabin categories. This program allows you to pay the per person double-occupancy rate whether or not a roommate is found. Contact AdventureSmith for further details and availability.
Families & Children
Skilled staff members trained with National Geographic Education organize activities that inspire curiosity in young people of all ages. Programming for kids may include activities like photo workshops, journaling, scavenger hunts, Zodiac-driving lessons, hands-on nature and science programming and kid-friendly menu options. See the Deals section of this trip for any applicable child discounts.
Travel Insurance
Emergency medical evacuation insurance is recommended but not mandatory for this trip. Trip cancellation insurance is optional but also highly recommended. 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.
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The National Geographic Endurance, identical sister ship to the National Geographic Resolution, is a 126-guest innovative polar expedition ship sailing in Antarctica and the Arctic. The ship’s motto is “To Explore and Understand the World” and was named after the great explorer Ernest Shackleton’s ship, The Endurance. This educational polar vessel has a specifically designed hull to break through the tough pack ice, increasing the ability to explore these hard-to-reach destinations and making new expeditions possible. Her polar ice class 5 rating allows her to operate during any time of the year in polar environments, vastly expanding the range of exploration in Antarctica and the Arctic. Her ability to venture deeper paired with state-of-the-art educational equipment and highly qualified guides, create an in-depth intellectual and truly exploratory experience.
Why Sail Aboard National Geographic Endurance
Choose the National Geographic Endurance for a sophisticated, educational and comfortable experience voyaging aboard a modern, innovative polar vessel with highly intellectual programming and unique itineraries that reach into the depths of the polar regions. Dubbed the ultimate expedition platform, National Geographic Endurance is equipped to serve as a basecamp in the most remote locations, with numerous tools for learning and expert onboard guides trained to National Geographic standards. For these, and many other reasons, the National Geographic Endurance is among our top choices for passengers seeking Antarctica luxury cruises.
AdventureSmith Explorations has been aboard National Geographic firsthand. Read our dedicated National Geographic Endurance ship review, written by our founder and president who sailed aboard the ship in the Arctic. Or consult this page further for a detailed description of the National Geographic Endurance, including ship specs, deck plan, cabin images, photo gallery and current links to all the trips she sails. We can help compare the National Geographic Endurance with other Antarctica ships and polar expedition ships offering Arctic cruises, Antarctica cruises, Greenland cruises, Iceland cruises, Chile cruises, Patagonia cruises and Northern Europe cruises.
National Geographic Endurance Design & Sustainability
Designed and built by the Norwegian ship builders Ulstein Group, this ship is pioneering a new age of polar travel conceived with sustainability, efficiency, safety and stability in mind. The Ulstein’s innovative, signature bow—the X-BOW®—creates a faster, safer, more efficient and comfortable vessel and incorporates sustainability solutions to reduce the ship’s environmental impact.
This hull design also allows for excellent forward and straight-down viewing, combining perfectly with her multiple observation decks, including observation wings that extend out from the sides of the ship. Her larger volume displacement in the foreship, inverted bow and slender hull lines offer higher fuel efficiency, less loss of speed in waves, more stability in rough waters, softer entry into waves, low acceleration levels, less spray, less slamming and bow impact, and reduced vibration. Her zero-steam stabilizers create a more stable ship while anchored/not moving, and her expanded fuel and water tanks allow for longer expeditions to go farther afield.
Common Areas & Amenities Aboard Nat Geo Endurance
With six guest decks, the Nat Geo Endurance has over 10,000 square feet of glass for prime enclosed viewing. The interior is fitted with Scandinavian design making this expedition ship comfortable yet modern. Common spaces follow the themes of fire and ice throughout the ship, keeping the outdoors close. Photographers gather in the purpose-designed space for editing and collaboration that comes included with a photo gear locker filled with photography equipment for guests' use. This Nat Geo expedition ship takes self-care options to the next level with spa treatments and therapies, saunas with incredible views, training options in the gym, a gorgeous yoga studio and two infinity-pool Jacuzzis, leaving each traveler relaxed and reinvigorated for their entire trip and beyond.
Internet is available on board Nat Geo Endurance (one device at a time) via three plans: the time-limited complimentary “basic” internet plan offers app messaging, email and simple social media; the time-limited “enhanced” internet plan adds general web browsing and video conferencing capabilities; and the “premium” internet plan provides unlimited access to all features under the “enhanced” plan. Note that WiFi is satellite based and may not always be accessible due to inclement weather or the ship's remote location.
Guests aboard National Geographic Endurance can enjoy "CHANGE," a definitive polar art exhibition curated by acclaimed artist Zaria Forman. This first-ever, permanent ship-based installation of drawings, paintings, video, photography, sculpture and soundscape features 35+ artists dedicated to examining and expressing response to vulnerable polar geographies. Key themes are displayed in both public and private spaces, on each deck of the ship, with explorations of polar light, the intimate geometries of vast geographies, human history in polar regions and more.
Dining Aboard National Geographic Endurance
With multiple dining options, the Endurance keeps travelers fed, and fed well. Restaurant Two Seven Zero provides stellar views and a menu filled with options. C. Green's is named for Shackleton's cook and offers an early breakfast, fresh salads, lighter fare and custom grilled items for lunch and dinner. The Chef's Table offers private dining with "polar theater" in the form of regionally inspired, sustainable and inventive food. High tea and hors d'oeuvres are served daily. BBQs in the Winter Garden are offered when weather permits.
Activities Aboard National Geographic Endurance
The Nat Geo Endurance has an innovative Zodiac loading system for quick, easy and safe loading and unloading for onshore exploration. The ship’s expedition tools include cross-country skis, kayaks, hydrophones, underwater video cameras, a remotely operated vehicle and a video microscope.
Two glass dome igloos at the rear of the Observation Deck may be booked for an overnight stay on a first-come, first-serve basis. Enjoy polar stargazing from the comfort of a quality mattress and cozy duvet warmed by hot-water bottles, with Scandinavian decor.
Cabins & Deck Plan Aboard National Geographic Endurance
Cabins are decorated with warming tones, creating the perfect opportunity to take comfort inward from exploring outward. The large windows keep the outdoors present as well as offer a refuge from the midnight sun with the blackout shades. A whole 75% of the cabins offer balconies and 12 are designed for solo travelers. All 69 cabins have a command center with atlas, barometer, clock, tablet, electrical ports and mirror, and a sofa or reading chair.
The National Geographic Explorer is a polar expedition vessel that holds 148 guests in 81 outside cabins. Her design and equipment is the result of almost 200 years of collective expedition experience. She is equipped with an ice-strengthened hull and advanced navigation equipment for polar expeditions and is perfectly maneuverable for polar passages while providing exceptional comfort. She carries kayaks and a fleet of Zodiac landing crafts. And an undersea specialist operates a remotely operated vehicle (ROV) and sophisticated video equipment, extending access to the underwater world.
National Geographic Explorer - In Detail:
Our Review
Common Areas & Amenities
Activities Aboard
Dining & Cuisine
Cabins & Suites & Deck Plan
National Geographic Explorer Review
AdventureSmith Explorations’ National Geographic Explorer review includes a detailed description of the small ship including deck plans and a photo gallery. Our experts have sailed aboard the National Geographic Explorer firsthand in Antarctica. Please read our National Geographic Explorer review below then contact our small cruise ship experts to compare the National Geographic Explorer with other Antarctica ships and polar expedition ships and yachts.
The National Geographic Explorer is one of the finest expedition ships in the world operating Antarctica cruises, Antarctica air cruise itineraries, Greenland cruises, Patagonia cruises, Arctic cruises, Iceland cruises, small ship cruises in Northern Europe and Canada small ship cruises. She is equipped for true expeditions to the farthest reaches of our planet in safety and comfort. At 148 guests and 356 feet, she is larger than many other expeditions ships but her size adds stability and endurance for longer voyages. She is still small enough to access remote locations favored by small ship expeditions.
Choose the National Geographic Explorer if you are an active and inquisitive traveler seeking one of the finest ships combined with the best onboard experts from National Geographic. The expert guides and equipment on board this next-generation ship provide the finest intellectual and educational experience of any expedition cruise. If you are seeking an upscale expedition ship, with top guides synonymous with Nat Geo cruises, the National Geographic Explorer is the right expedition ship for you.
Common Areas & Amenities Aboard Nat Geo Explorer
Guests aboard the Explorer enjoy a Bistro Bar; forward-located Chart Room; restaurant; Global Gallery featuring practical items, regional handicrafts and art; library; lounge with full-service bar and state-of-the-art facilities for films, slideshows and presentations; mud room with lockers for expedition gear; and an observation lounge. An "Open Bridge" provides guests an opportunity to meet Explorer's officers and captain and learn about navigation.
A full-time doctor, Internet cafe and laundry are also available. The vessel is staffed by two Wellness Specialists and features a glass-enclosed Fitness Center, outdoor stretching area, two LEXSpa treatment rooms and Swedish sauna, perfect for quick warm-ups after polar plunges or as a relaxing way to end the day. The fitness center with its expansive floor-to-ceiling windows and 180-degree vista offers a “million-dollar view” along with exercise bikes, elliptical machines and treadmills, free weights, yoga mats and exercise balls. From early-morning yoga or stretching on deck or in the lounge to massages and face, hand or body treatments inspired by the location, the onboard wellness specialists help guests achieve a more relaxed and revitalized state of being, great for days spent at sea.
Nat Geo Explorer also offers internet access (one device at a time) via three tiers: time-limited complimentary "basic" internet, for app messaging, email and simple social media; time-limited "enhanced" internet, adding general web browsing and video conferencing capabilities; and "premium" internet, for unlimited access to all features under the "enhanced" plan. Please note: WiFi is satellite based and may be compromised by inclement weather or remote locations.
Activities Aboard National Geographic Explorer
National Geographic Explorer carries a full fleet of 15 Zodiac landing crafts, allowing guides to get the entire expedition community off ship and engaged in activities quickly, comfortably and safely. Widely regarded as the most robust watercraft available, these Zodiacs can push through pack ice and run up on sandy shores. Also on board are 36 two-person AIRE inflatable kayaks, a fleet large enough to ensure everyone who wants to can paddle at every opportunity. Specifically chosen because of their inherent stability and suitability for polar waters, AIREs are virtually untippable. Consequently, prior kayaking experience is not necessary; many guests aboard National Geographic Explorer have had their first kayaking experience in extraordinary locations. Kayakers are usually free to explore where they want within boundaries set by the undersea specialist and officer of the watch.
Unique in-ship Zodiac boarding stations, designed by VP-Marine Operations Captain Leif Skog, allow guests to step into Zodiacs and kayaks safely—and dry—from a secure platform inside the ship rather than a ladder dangling outside. With two possible embarkation gates, the Explorer unloads her guests into Zodiacs more quickly, meaning you’ll have more time ashore and less time waiting. Adjacent these boarding stations is the mudroom and lockers for guests, where expedition gear can be stored separate from cabins. On warm-weather itineraries where there will be snorkeling, a mask, snorkel, fins and wetsuit are provided for the duration of the expedition. On select cold-weather itineraries, cross-country ski gear may be available.
Additional tools for exploration aboard National Geographic Explorer include:
Underwater Camera
An undersea specialist will dive almost every day of Explorer’s expeditions, even in Antarctica or the Arctic, with almost 200 pounds of gear, to shoot high-definition, Cousteau-like footage of the deep. Colorful nudibranchs, plant-like crinoids and mysterious fish with antifreeze blood that thrive in the frigid sea will give you an entirely new appreciation of the marine environment.
Remotely Operated Vehicle
Capable of reaching 1,000 feet, far beyond the range of any scuba diver, the ROV allows guests to literally view parts of the undersea that are as unexplored as the moon. By sharing videos of potentially new species with scientists, such as a large worm an onboard specialist captured in the Weddell Sea, each expedition actively contributes to science and may fundamentally change how the ocean is viewed.
Video Microscope
Naturalists will use the video microscope to help explain all elements of the environment, including tiny organisms that are the building block of the marine ecosystem. Spellbinding images of a krill’s body, at 80x magnification, fills the plasma screens in the lounge with vivid detail, and fills every onlooker with a sense of wonder at the importance of an otherwise unobservable creature.
Crow’s Nest Camera
Perched high atop the vessel on the ship’s mast, this camera provides a continual view on the outside world that can be seen on in-room cabin TVs. From zooming in on a distant polar bear to simply watching the bow crush through ice flows, each guest gets a unique perspective of their surroundings. The extra height from the camera also aids the captain by allowing him to peer at ice conditions farther ahead.
Hydrophones
These underwater microphones are deployed to listen to the vocalizations of marine mammals. Real-time transmissions of their eerie, haunting sounds can be broadcast through the ship or recorded for later playback.
Dining Aboard National Geographic Explorer
Meals are served in the ship's elegant dining room and the adjacent, more intimate Bistro Bar. Seating is open, allowing you to choose where to dine, and table sizes range from 2 to 12. The style is relaxed and casual—there’s never a need to dress up, and there will be opportunities to chat with the onboard naturalists and guest speakers over a meal. Each evening, a ship’s officer, National Geographic staff or a naturalist hosts small tables in the chart room.
All food prepared aboard National Geographic Explorer is sourced locally whenever possible from sustainable providers, with special attention to all seafood being sustainably caught or raised. Breakfast is usually served buffet-style in the dining room and consists of a selection of fruit, eggs to order, cereal, yogurts, cheese and cold meats, plus specially prepared daily dishes, fresh coffee and tea. An early-riser continental breakfast is served in the bistro as well, and many guests choose to take their coffee and morning pastries to the bridge or out on deck. Lunch is also served buffet-style in the dining room and Bistro Bar, with salads and both hot and cold buffet choices available. Most days a light-lunch option is held in the observation lounge at the very top of the ship. When weather conditions permit, the light-lunch is held outdoors on the aft sundeck, offering a stunning backdrop. Depending on the day’s activities, an afternoon tea with cookies, or occasionally, cakes and pastries, is served buffet-style in the Bistro Bar. Dinners are served in the dining room and bistro and feature plated service.
Cabins & Deck Plan Aboard National Geographic Explorer
Soothingly decorated in quiet earth tones, National Geographic Explorer’s 81 spacious cabins each offer a large desk, ample drawer space, signature feather duvets, crisp cotton sheets and generously sized bathrooms with roomy glass-walled shower stalls, hair dryers, bathrobes and botanically-inspired shampoo, shower gel and lotion, as well as an Expedition Essential Kit. Most cabins offer a comfortable armchair for reading, as well as individual reading lamps above the bed.
Cabins also feature individual climate control for heating and air-conditioning; National Geographic Atlas; plenty of drawers, hooks and under-bed storage space for luggage; public address system; and a flat-panel TV with several channels for movies, National Geographic documentaries, lounge lectures and presentations, views from the Crow’s Nest camera and displays of the electronic chart system with the ship’s current position. Ethernet jacks are available for in-cabin Internet access and there are both 110-volt and 220-volt outlets. Cabin doors lock, but it’s recommended to leave jewelry and other valuables at home. The Explorer is not equipped with safety deposit boxes.
The National Geographic Resolution, sister ship to the National Geographic Endurance, is a 138-guest innovative polar expedition ship. Launched in late 2021 the Resolution and Endurance are the culmination of decades of experience built into the next generation of expedition ships. Famous captains, veteran expedition leaders and professional crew were consulted on every detail to create a ship as capable as she is comfortable.
National Geographic Resolution Ship - At a Glance
Nat Geo Resolution sets the standard for the next generation of expedition ships. She is an extraordinary platform for expedition adventure thanks to her many state-of-the-art features and tools including:
- A fully-stabilized PC5 Category A ice class passenger vessel
- Omni-directional WESMAR HD860 sonar for scanning the sea floor in order to navigate poorly-charted waters
- Patented X-Bow design for smoothest, most comfortable ride
- Advanced sustainability engineering: larger fuel tanks, a more fuel-efficient engine with cleanest exhaust gases, plus large water tanks make National Geographic Resolution more ecofriendly and able to range far beyond ordinary limits
- Optimal viewing and photography opportunities from unprecedented forward and down-the-sides sightlines, plus multiple observation decks and new observation wings
- Heated outdoor dining, observation and rejuvenation areas offer innovative opportunities to stay comfortably connected to the stellar outdoors and wildlife sighting opportunities
- A suite of expeditions tools: Fleets of Zodiacs, kayaks, cross-country skis for early season voyages, an ROV, hydrophones, video microscope, underwater video technology and more
- Hyper efficient Zodiac loading for “getting out there” more swiftly and safely
National Geographic Resolution - In Detail:
Why Cruise Aboard
X-BOW® Design
Speed & Propulsion
Common Areas
Dining & Cuisine
Off-Vessel Activities
Namesake
Cabins & Suites & Deck Plan
Why Sail Aboard National Geographic Resolution
A fully stabilized small expedition ship with a high PC5 Category A ice class rating, the Resolution enables adventurous guests to go where few have or can. The National Geographic Resolution’s most striking exterior feature is her distinctive profile, the patented X-Bow®. This game-changing design guarantees the smoothest, most comfortable ride in all kinds of conditions. Since it eliminates bow impact, guests experience a quieter ride as well.
This educational polar vessel has a specifically designed hull to break through the tough pack ice, increasing the ability to explore these hard-to-reach destinations and making new expeditions possible. Her polar ice class 5 rating allows her to operate during any time of the year in polar environments, vastly expanding the range of exploration in Antarctica and the Arctic. Her ability to venture deeper, paired with state-of-the-art educational equipment and highly qualified guides, creates an in-depth intellectual and truly exploratory experience.
An equally impressive feature may well be her capacity: she carries just 138 guests, a commitment to expedition excellence over scale. Scandinavian-inflected, luxuriously appointed, her inviting interiors would be a destination in themselves. Because she is a National Geographic-Lindblad Expeditions ship, however, her attention is focused on the world outside—with acres of window glass to keep you connected to the stunning views beyond the pane, and a fleet of expedition tools to get you out exploring.
Choose the National Geographic Resolution for a refined, scholarly and pleasant experience aboard a modern, innovative polar vessel with highly intellectual programming and unique polar itineraries that voyage into the depths of the Arctic, Antarctica and beyond. The National Geographic Resolution is equipped to be a floating home base in the most faraway places, with many educational tools and topnotch onboard guides trained to the standards of National Geographic. For these and many other reasons, the Nat Geo Resolution is among our top choices for passengers seeking luxury Antarctica cruises.
AdventureSmith Explorations has been aboard National Geographic Resolution firsthand. Read our dedicated National Geographic Resolution ship review, written by our founder and president who sailed aboard the ship in the Arctic. Or consult this page further for a detailed description of National Geographic Resolution, including ship specs, deck plan, cabin images, photo gallery and current links to all the trips she sails. We can help compare the National Geographic Resolution with other Antarctica ships, small cruise ships and polar expedition ships offering Antarctica cruises, Alaska small ship cruises, Arctic cruises, small ship Asia cruises, Canada cruises, Greenland cruises, Chile cruises, Japan small ship cruises, Patagonia cruises, Pacific Island cruises and small ship cruises in Northern Europe.
Groundbreaking X-BOW® Design
Designed and built by the Norwegian ship builders Ulstein Group, this ship is leading a new age of polar travel focused on sustainability, efficiency, safety and stability. The Ulstein’s innovative, signature bow—the X-BOW®—creates a vessel with increased agility, security, performance and convenience and incorporates conservation-minded solutions to reduce the ship’s environmental impact.
This hull design also allows for excellent forward and downward viewing from numerous observation decks, including observation wings that extend out from the ship’s sides. Her larger volume displacement in the front of the ship, upturned bow and slender hull design offer higher fuel efficiency, improved performance in waves, increased stability in rough waters, softer entry into waves, reduced acceleration levels, less spray, less slamming and bow impact, and lower vibration. Her zero-steam stabilizers increase stability while anchored/not moving, and her expanded fuel and water tanks allow for longer expeditions to explore farther.
Speed & Propulsion
With a top speed of 16.5 knots, the Resolution is fast. Most expedition ships boast a top speed of 12-15 knots. Furthermore, traditionally bowed ships must slow down in rough seas to avoid slamming the bow against waves. All of this translates into faster crossings and more time exploring.
The Resolution boasts Azipod propulsion, where the motor is housed in a pod outside the hull and can rotate 360 degrees. This revolutionary design increases efficiency and maneuverability, particularly in ice-infested waters.
The propulsion system also allows the Resolution to hover in place for Zodiac operations, kayaking or watching wildlife. This dynamic position system, or anchorless anchoring, means the ship can remain close to shore resulting in more efficient shore landings.
Common Areas & Amenities
Across her six guest decks, the Nat Geo Resolution boasts more than 10,000 square feet of glass for prime enclosed viewing. The interior is fitted with Scandinavian design that’s both enjoyable and contemporary. Fire and ice are the motif throughout the ship, reflecting the external surroundings that National Geographic Resolution cruises through. Photographers may enjoy the purpose-designed space for editing and collaboration, as well as access to a photo gear locker filled with photography equipment for guests’ use. This Nat Geo expedition ship takes relaxation and fitness seriously with spa treatments, saunas featuring amazing views, gym equipment, a yoga studio and two infinity-pool Jacuzzis.
The high tech Bridge is adapted to accommodate every guest on board, enabling travelers to share the thrill of being underway. Learn from the Captain and officers and scan the horizon for wildlife with naturalists from one of be the best viewpoints aboard the ship. The Bridge is always open for guests to enjoy.
Tour the Bridge Deck
Restaurant 270 Degrees on the Main Deck features wraparound views and provides a window on the vital expedition team members: the galley staff as they prepare meals. The dining area features sustainable choices that are sourced locally where possible and unassigned, flexible, inclusive seating.
The Observation Deck keeps guests connected to the outside world with floor-to-ceiling windows and easy outdoor access points. Follow the course of the ship in the interactive electronic charter table. In the library, catch up on reading during days at sea, or enjoy a nightcap with fellow guests at the bar.
The Lounge Deck’s Ice Lounge, with its signature “Circle of Truth” at the center, is where the daily ritual of recap—convening, sharing knowledge and anticipating tomorrow—takes place over cocktails and canapes with engaging presentations or undersea videos lighting the screens. It's also home to the Photo Studio, where all guests can borrow complimentary B&H photo gear.
The Expedition Deck is home to the equipment and amenities needed for exploration off the ship. The spacious Basecamp (also known as a mudroom) offers warm, welcome home storage for your expedition gear. Zodiacs and kayaks are stored in the garage. Newly designed loading bays allow the fleet of Zodiacs to be deployed quickly, maximizing your time ashore.
Originally intended as solarizing units for the adjacent infinity hot tubs, the igloos quickly became such an acclaimed feature that guests can now book an overnight stay (on a first-come, first-serve basis). It is a one-of-a-kind experience to lie on a superb mattress under a froth of cozy duvet, warmed by twin hot-water bottles in the traditional Scandinavian way. Gaze out at impossible polar beauty or up at never-before-seen polar stars.
The Sanctuary features amenities and services to jump start the day or relax after exploring ashore. Every morning, wellness specialists offer a stretch class in the Yoga Studio. Twin saunas, Nordic and Tropic, boast glass walls for soaking in million-dollar views. Enjoy massages, facials and other wellness treatments in the two massage rooms during days at sea. The Fitness Studio features state-of-the-art equipment, including free weights, weighted balls, kettle balls, treadmills and ellipticals.
The Science Hub facilitates research projects and provides a lab for researchers needing to stretch grant dollars to get to key sites and do vital work. Guests gain a front row seat on ongoing science and connect with interesting researchers.
Tupaia’s restaurant, named after the great Polynesian navigator, offers an early riser breakfast as well as lighter, made-to-order lunch fare. Custom grilled selection are prepared on the outdoor barbecue when the weather allows. Enjoy both indoor and outdoor seating thanks to the outdoor wind-protected seating and infrared heaters. Plus, on every departure all guests are hosted at the Chef’s Table, an innovative approach to private dining.
Cozy up around one of the two fire pits outside of the Ice Lounge. With real, heated flames from the fire pits, protection from the wind, and additional overhead infrared heaters, enjoy great views of the surrounding landscape.
A full-time doctor and impressive medical center with isolation rooms are prepared for most emergencies.
Internet is available on board (one device at a time) via three tiers: time-limited complimentary "basic" internet, for app messaging, email and simple social media; time-limited "enhanced" internet, adding general web browsing and video conferencing capabilities; and "premium" internet, for unlimited access to all features under the "enhanced" plan. WiFi is satellite based and may not always be accessible in poor weather or extremely remote areas.
Dining & Cuisine
Resolution features multiple dining options to ensure her guests are nourished well between adventures. From various dining options, polar travelers can enjoy excellent views, early breakfast, private dining, al fresco BBQs in the protected winter garden (weather permitting), and daily high tea and hors d’oeuvres. Large menus offer an array of options including fresh and lighter fare; custom grilled items; and regionally inspired, sustainable and creative food.
Off-Vessel Activities
The Nat Geo Resolution features fast, painless and secure loading and unloading from its modern-designed Zodiac loading system. Onboard expedition tools include cross-country skis, kayaks, hydrophones, underwater video cameras, a remotely operated vehicle, a video microscope and more. Every voyage is an adventure with activities designed to enhance your understanding of the surrounding environment.
Resolution Ship Namesake
The ship’s name honors Captain James Cook, the legendary explorer who was the first to circumnavigate Antarctica and cross the Antarctic Circle, and the first European to reach Hawaii. While he served as the master of several ships, his favorite was the Resolution. To seal the name, a rare, vintage, commemorative silver coin depicting Cook on one side and a Hawaiian chieftain on the other, is welded into the ship. It is a Hawaii Sesquicentennial half dollar, struck in 1928 by the United States Bureau of the Mint in honor of the 150th anniversary of Cook’s landing in Hawaii.
National Geographic Resolution Cabins & Suites
All cabins are outward-facing and feature large windows. All are equipped with climate control, an expedition command center—including tablets, multiple electrical and USB outlets, a TV, barometer, a National Geographic Atlas and more—a mini refrigerator, small safe and robes. Bathrooms are outfitted with a rain shower and directional showerhead, botanically inspired products and a hair dryer. Enjoy luxury linens and pillows, as well as complimentary insulated water bottles.
Cabins feature warmth-inspired decor, offering a comforting respite after a day spent exploring in polar environments. Large windows feature the outdoors while also being equipped with blackout shades to combat the midnight sun when it’s time to sleep. An impressive 75% of the cabins offer balconies and 12 are designed for solo travelers. All 69 cabins have a command center with atlas, barometer, clock, tablet, electrical ports and mirror, and a sofa or reading chair.
National Geographic Resolution Deck Plan
Use the Nat Geo Resolution deck plan below to determine the best cabin category and location. Contact our experts for a personal consultation.
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Learn About the Small Ships on Your Itinerary
The National Geographic Endurance is the newest addition to the National Geographic fleet. This expedition ship is specifically designed for stability and sustainability as well as for in-depth education and an unmatched range of exploration in the polar regions.
The National Geographic Explorer is a state-of-the-art expedition ship. She is fully stabilized, enabling her to navigate polar passages while providing comfort.
The National Geographic Resolution is one of the newest additions to the National Geographic fleet. This expedition ship is specifically designed for stability, efficiency, scholarship and long-range exploration in the polar regions.
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