Don't miss
What can we say? You can’t miss anything in the town, it’s so small!
From Ushuaia to Puerto Natales
Antarctica Direct: Sail and Fly the Drake Passage
From Ushuaia to Puerto Natales
Antarctica Direct: Sail and Fly the Drake Passage
Voyage Itinerary
7 December to 8 December
Setting sail from Ushuaia
Ushuaia is sometimes described as 'the city at the end of the world', though its rugged beauty is far from apocalyptic. Perched on the ragged southern edge of Argentina, where the snow-capped Andes fall away into the churning sea, the city has a frontier town feel to it, and serves as the base for expeditions into the icy waters of Antarctica. There are also plenty of outdoor pursuits on offer here, including hiking, skiing and fishing, and the Tierra del Fuego National Park is home to spectacular scenery and wildlife including penguins, guanacos, sea lions and condors.
9 December to 10 December - At sea
11 December to 14 December
Antarctica: Antarctica
15 December
Antarctica: King George Island
The relative proximity of King George Island to South America, together with the fact that around 10% of the island is ice-free, means that there are several research stations clustered here, along with an airfield. It’s the biggest island in the South Shetlands archipelago, and is also home to the world’s most southerly Russian Orthodox church!
15 December to 16 December
Arriving in Puerto Natales
Puerto Natales, situated at the southern end of the Chilean Fjords, is a major tourism hub for southern Patagonia. Formerly a fishing port, the town is now the gateway to the Torres del Paine National Park, a spectacular landscape of granite peaks, grassy steppes and azure lakes, populated by guanacos, condors, pumas and more.
The ship
National Geographic Explorer
- Capacity:
- 148 Guests
- Crew:
- 99 Staff
- Style:
- Expedition cruising at its best, so expect relaxed informal evenings after adventurous days!
National Geographic Explorer was originally constructed to navigate the Norwegian coast before being rebuilt as a fully stabilised ice-class expedition ship.
What we love
With an ice-strengthened hull she is perfectly suited to the polar regions but also offers voyages in the British Isles, Iceland and North America and features Lindblad's signature 'Tools for Exploration' to enhance your adventure. National Geographic Explorer underwent a refurbishment of her upper suites in 2023, boasting a refreshed décor and Scandinavian design.
inclusions
- All meals on board
- Beer, wine, cocktails, and soft drinks
- All park fees and permits
- Activities and excursions
- Basic Wi-Fi package
- Gratuities
Tailor-make your trip
Ways to make it better
Where to stay in Ushuaia
Los Cauquenes Resort and Spa is your best option, if you have time to stay.
Tours from Ushuaia
What you choose to do on tour will need to supplement whatever cruise you are taking. So if you are heading to Antarctica, whilst here you will want to go to the Tierra del Fuego National Park.
How can we help?
Our frequently asked questions
From expedition tips to travel protection, here are some of our most-asked questions.
visit our faqs
Can you help with pre and post-cruise arrangements?
Absolutely. Expedition cruises often start and end in remote destinations, and we're able to arrange everything from flights and transfers to hotels and tours. If you're keen to make the most of your time away with bespoke arrangements, we can help with all your travel needs to make sure your trip is exceptional. What's more, we are members of ABTA and we offer full ATOL protection, not to mention a 24-hour emergency contact, to give you complete peace of mind.
Will I save by booking with Mundy Adventures?
You'll save money and time by booking with us rather than directly with the cruise line, as well as enjoying more flexibility in your travel arrangements. We have access to preferential rates and exclusive offers, and we offer expert advice on how to get the best value.
How much time is spent ashore?
Itineraries are planned to deliver an unforgettable experience of the destination, so days are filled with landings ashore via the ship's fleet of Zodiacs (sturdy rubber boats) or exploration along the coastline. It will vary depending on itinerary and operators, so it's best to contact us to discuss but rest assured an expedition cruise is focused on the time you spend off the ship.
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Latest news and travel inspiration
News, trip reports, cruising advice and industry insight brought to you from our expert team.
Why Mundy?
Who we are
Mundy Adventures is the intrepid little brother of Mundy Cruising Ltd., the UK's very first cruise specialist, and one of the leading companies in its field.
We specialise in travel by ship and have been doing so for over 50 years. By providing expert, personal service, insightful ideas and fascinating add-ons we aim to make your adventure holiday truly unique and special.
We're happy to do all of that over the phone. But if you prefer to chat face to face, why not visit us at our comfortable offices on London's High Holborn - we'd be delighted to see you.
