£16299pp—Icebergs & penguins: Antarctica expedition cruise

This once-in-a-lifetime exploration takes you to a rarely visited territory in the Antarctic Circle. Zodiac cruise around enormous icebergs, watch for whales off the bow, kayak in tranquillity, or hike onshore. This 5-star cruise alone normally costs £22,824 per person—you'll pay £16,299, plus get free flights. It includes access to a variety of exploration tools, including Zodiac boats and a team of experts.

What’s included

• Return international flights to Buenos Aires, with 23kg checked baggage
• Internal flights to and from Ushuaia
• Overnight pre-cruise stay at the 4-star Casa Lucia Meliá Collection or Hotel Emperador, Buenos Aires, in a Standard Double room, with breakfast
• A 14-night all-inclusive cruise on National Geographic Endurance, in a Category 1 Stateroom
• Excursions and exploration tools including Zodiacs, kayaks, stand-up paddleboards and other state-of-the-art gear
• All meals during your voyage are included, including beer, wine, cocktails, and local spirits
• Transfers throughout

When
Fly from London Heathrow on 25 January, 2027. 

Cruise itinerary highlights**
Arrive in Buenos Aires then fly to Ushuaia, the southernmost city in the world. Enjoy lunch on a catamaran cruise in the Beagle Channel. Then, embark the National Geographic Endurance.

On day three and four, you'll cross the Drake Passage, a 500-mile-wide strait between South America and the Antarctic Peninsula. Spot wandering albatross, killer whales, or dolphins. Visit the Bridge to spot wildlife, attend a talk about the biology of penguins, or head to the observation lounge.

On day 4-13, you'll sail in the wake of history's boldest explorers and cross the legendary Antarctic Circle. Kayak past towering icebergs, or embark on a Zodiac excursion in search of seals and blue-eyed shags. 

Round the southernmost tip of South America where the Atlantic and Pacific Oceans meet on days 14–15. Celebrate your voyage at a farewell dinner on board.

On day 16, you'll disembark in Ushuaia and transfer to the airport. Fly to Buenos Aires and connect with your overnight flight home.

Ship details
National Geographic Endurance carries 138 passengers and a crew of 116. The ship is equipped with a roster of tools for exploration. Built specifically for Arctic and Antarctica expeditions, this "nimble ship delivers bucket-list travel perfectly with state-of-the-art technology" (Cruise Critic). The patented X-Bow® guarantees the smoothest, most comfortable ride in all kinds of conditions. As it eliminates bow impact, you'll also get a quieter ride.

The ship has an open bridge, and a chart room below with high-perched observation decks. Cruise with a dedicated Expedition Team who will be on hand throughout all Zodiac cruises. Listen to engaging lectures led by a variety of specialists every day. Take epic photographs with the help of a National Geographic photography expert.

Onboard there's a lounge and a bar with state-of-the-art presentation facilities and a library. Visit the open-air observation lounge, and use the dual Zodiac boarding platform. Restaurant 270° features wrap-around views; two other dining areas offer lighter, made-to-order fare or intimate, small group dinners. All feature sustainable choices and unassigned, flexible, inclusive seating.

Category 1 Staterooms have either one or two portholes. All cabins feature a writing desk, floor length mirror, reading lamps, and well-appointed bathrooms with a roomy glass-wall shower.

Other options

• Sail in a Category 2 room from £16999 per person. Category 2 rooms have a larger window so you can see the Arctic scenery. 
• Visit Antarctica, South Georgia, and the Falklands for 21 nights from £26499 per person.

Transfers & baggage
This deal includes both.