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DestinationsAntarcticaNational Geographic Explorer

National Geographic Explorer

Overview of the National Geographic Explorer

The M/V National Geographic Explorer is a state-of-the-art, fully stabilized Antarctic expedition ship that debuted in August of 2008, equipped with unmatched tools for exploration.

Trip Features
  • 8-22 Days
  • Starting at $10,140 per person
  • PHYSICAL RATING
    Moderate
  • ACTIVITIES
    Hiking, Kayaking, Photography
  • HIGHLIGHTS
    Glaciers, Icebergs, Whales, Penguins

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A person in a red coat stands on snow, taking a photograph with a large camera. Behind them is a large ship with the words "National Geographic Explorer" on its side. Several other people are gathered near the ship, surrounded by snowy mountains.
A group of tourists in red coats debarks from an inflatable boat onto a rocky shore, with a rugged mountain and a glacier in the background. Penguins can be seen scattered along the shoreline and grassy area.
Three people stand on a grassy hillside overlooking a serene body of water with gentle waves and surrounded by green hills. In the background, rugged mountains rise against a blue sky with scattered clouds. The scene depicts a peaceful, natural landscape.
A person in a red jacket and gray pants is sitting beside a tripod with a camera, overlooking a large group of penguins near a river. Snow-capped mountains and rocky terrain form the backdrop under a clear blue sky. .
A small group of adventurers in orange jackets travel in a rubber boat on icy blue water, approaching a rugged coastline of jagged rock formations and snow-covered cliffs. The steep, multicolored cliffs loom in the background under a gloomy sky.
A man jumps off a boat into icy water, wearing a grey shirt and white shorts, with snow-covered mountains in the background. Other people, dressed warmly, watch from the boat's deck on a sunny day.
A group of people in orange jackets are seated in a black inflatable boat on clear blue waters in an icy landscape. Some are taking photos of a seal resting on an ice floe close to the boat. Snow-covered mountains and glaciers are visible in the background.
Two people in orange jackets paddle an inflatable yellow kayak in icy waters, surrounded by icebergs. In the foreground, four penguins stand on a snowy ice floe. The backdrop features a snowy and icy landscape, with scattered icebergs and distant mountains.
Two people in a yellow inflatable kayak paddle in icy waters, pointing towards two whales surfacing nearby. Snow-capped mountains and glaciers are visible in the background under a cloudy sky.
A group of people in blue jackets and orange life vests are on two inflatable boats, observing and photographing a large whale that has surfaced nearby. The surrounding water is icy, with snow-covered land in the background.
A group of people in winter gear hike up a snowy hill with a sunlit mountain range and a body of water in the background. A cruise ship is anchored near the shore. The sun is low in the sky, casting a soft golden light over the snowy landscape.
A man in an orange life jacket stands on a small boat in front of a large ship named "National Geographic Explorer." The sky is blue with scattered clouds, and the ship is traveling through calm waters. The ship's bow and part of its side are visible.
A cruise ship navigates through icy waters near a snow-covered mountainous landscape. The still water perfectly reflects the ship and surrounding icy mountains, creating a symmetrical and serene scene under a cloudy sky.
A group of four people in red jackets paddle a yellow inflatable boat near an ice floe in Antarctica. On the ice floe, a seal is resting. A large expedition ship is visible in the background against a backdrop of snowy mountains.
Two penguins standing close together by the water's edge with a large ship in the background. The scene is set against a backdrop of icy, snow-covered landscape under a cloudy sky, suggesting a polar or Antarctic environment.
A crowded scene of wildlife at a beach, featuring numerous king penguins and brown fluffy penguin chicks, along with several large seals. Two prominent seals in the center appear to be vocalizing with their mouths wide open. The background shows a grassy area.
Two people in orange gear sit on a yellow boat in icy waters, observing a group of penguins leaping out of the water. Icebergs and snowy surroundings are in the background. The scene is lively and captures the cold, adventurous environment.
A group of people wearing red jackets stand on the deck of a ship, looking out at a vast, icy landscape. The scene is dominated by floating icebergs and a clear blue sky, reflecting off the calm ocean waters in a polar region.
Two photographers in red jackets are taking pictures of a large albatross with wings outstretched. They stand among tall grasses under a clear sky, capturing the bird's moment on camera.

National Geographic Explorer Itineraries

Specifically designed for 21st century expedition touring, she accommodates 148 passengers and offers the privilege of safely exploring the planet’s most remote and wild places, in the luxury of comfort, matched with the informality of an expedition-style adventure.

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Day 1 Arrive PUERTO NATALES, CHILE
Day 2 FLIGHT TO KING GEORGE ISLAND – Embark
DayS 3-6 ANTARCTICA
Day 7 KING GEORGE ISLAND – DISEMBARK – FLIGHT TO PUERTO NATALES
Day 8 PUERTO NATALES
Day 1 Arrive Buenos Aires, Argentina
Day 2 FLIGHT Buenos Aires / Ushuaia – Embark
Day 3 At Sea
Days 4-6 Falkland Islands
Days 7-8 At Sea
Days 9-13 South Georgia ISLAND
Days 14-15 At Sea
Days 16-19 Antarctic Peninsula
Days 20-21 Drake Passage
Day 22 Disembark Ushuaia – FLIGHT TO Buenos Aires
Day 1 Arrive USHUAIA, Argentina
Day 2 Ushuaia – Embark
DayS 3 -4 DRAKE PASSAGE
Days 5-8 Antarctic Peninsula
Day 9 KING GEORGE ISLAND – DISEMBARK – FLIGHT TO PUERTO NATALES, CHILE
Day 10 PUERTO NATALES
Day 1 Arrive Buenos Aires, Argentina
Day 2 FLIGHT Buenos Aires / Ushuaia – EmbArk
DayS 3-4 DRAKE PASSAGE
DayS 5-9 ANTARCTICA
DayS 10-11 AT SEA
Days 12-13 EXPLORING THE CHILEAN FJORDS
Day 14 PUERTO NATALES / KIRKE NARROWS
Day 15 PUERTO NATALES & TORRES DEL PAINE NATIONAL PARK
Day 16 FRANCISCO COLOANE MARINE PARK
Day 17 TIERRA DEL FUEGO: KARUKINKA NATURAL PARK AND AINSWORTH BAY
Day 18 PUNTA ARENAS – DISEMBARK – FLIGHT TO SANTIAGO, CHILE

**According to the departure date the route can be Northbound (Ushuaia to Punta Arenas) or Southbound (Punta Arenas to Ushuaia)

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More About the National Geographic Explorer

The National Geographic Explorer is uniquely equipped ice-class vessel with a DNV Ice-1A Super rating on her forward hull, is fully stabilized, has advanced navigation equipment for polar expeditions and travels at a maximum speed of 16.5 knots.

A large blue and white ship named "National Geographic Explorer" sails through open waters under a partly cloudy sky. The vessel has multiple decks, with people visible on the upper deck, and lifeboats are secured along the side.
Two women are sitting at a table playing a game while enjoying the ocean view through large windows on a cruise ship. One woman wears a pink sweater and white pants, and the other wears a green argyle sweater. The ocean is visible outside.
An elderly man in a white bathrobe sits in a comfortable chair, holding a newspaper and looking out a large window at icebergs in the distance. The scene is calm and serene, with soft lighting and modern furnishings inside. A metal mug sits on the table.
A group of people stands on the bridge of a ship. Several individuals are conversing while others observe the ocean through the windows. The bridge is equipped with various navigational instruments and control panels. The sea and sky are visible outside.
Two older men are standing by a large table in an elegantly designed room, probably on a ship. One man with a glass in his hand looks on while the other points to a large map spread out on the table. The setting appears well-lit with polished wood accents.
A senior couple relaxes on deck chairs aboard a cruise ship, enjoying a sunny day. The woman, wearing a blue outfit, lies back smiling, while the man, in sunglasses and a gray shirt, sits up holding a drink and a piece of paper. The ocean and distant land are visible.
A group of people are seated on yoga mats on the deck of a ship, performing a stretching exercise with their arms raised and hands clasped overhead. Dumbbells and exercise equipment are placed beside them. The sky is clear with light clouds, and the ocean is in the background.
A man is speaking to an audience in a modern, wood-paneled room with large windows. The audience, seated around circular tables, includes people of varying ages, attentively listening. The atmosphere is relaxed, with drinks and conversations taking place.
A group of people sit in a warmly lit lounge area with wooden paneling. They are engaged in conversations, drinking beverages, and relaxing in comfortable armchairs. The room features large windows, framed artwork, and a television mounted on the wall.
A group of people are gathered in a room with wooden accents, many looking at a circular table displaying seven open laptops. Each laptop screen shows different images. Some people are seated, while others are standing, creating a busy yet focused atmosphere.
A person with light-colored hair stands in a well-lit library, reading a book. In the foreground, several books are displayed on a wooden stand, including titles about Antarctica, birds, and oceans. Bookshelves filled with more books are visible in the background.
People sitting and reading in a cozy lounge area with bookshelves in the background. A woman in a blue fleece jacket reads National Geographic while others sit in comfortable chairs, some also reading or engaging in quiet activities.
Three people are using treadmills in a gym with large windows overlooking the ocean. The gym has wood-paneled walls and ceiling. The individuals are dressed in workout attire, and the scene suggests a cruise ship or seaside location.
A man and a woman sit at an outdoor café under large white umbrellas. They appear to be conversing and enjoying a drink. The woman is holding a book. Two other people sit at a nearby table with the ocean and cloudy sky in the background.
Five people are seated around a formally set dining table with white tablecloths, sharing a meal in an elegant, wood-paneled room with large windows and floral arrangements. They appear to be enjoying a pleasant conversation.
A chef in a white uniform leans on a counter covered with various fruits such as strawberries, blackberries, and red currants. The kitchen has a sleek metal interior with shelves and appliances in the background. The chef smiles at the camera, looking proud of their vibrant creations.
A person in a navy uniform stands in an elegantly set dining area on a ship, featuring tables adorned with white tablecloths, folded napkins, glassware, and floral centerpieces. Large windows offer a view of the ocean, and the seating is blue.
A bartender dressed in a blue shirt with a patterned tie is pouring a drink from a shaker into a glass at a well-stocked bar. Various bottles of liquor are visible on the shelves behind him, and there is another person, also in a blue shirt, in the background on the left.
Two people wearing white robes relax in a wooden sauna. One person is reclining with eyes closed while the other is seated, leaning back with eyes closed. The sauna features wooden benches and dim lighting, and there is a bucket and towel on the floor.
A cozy sauna room features wooden benches, shelves stocked with neatly folded white towels, and a variety of fresh fruits on a counter. A woman wrapped in a towel is entering the sauna, holding a towel against her body. The floor is tiled, and the room is well-lit.
Ship Highlights
  • Size/Type
    367 ft.
  • Guest Capacity
    148
  • Features
    Indoor Common Space
    Expansive Outdoor Deck
    Open Bridge & Six Decks
    Library & Observation Lounge
    Chart Room w/ 24-Hour Beverage Station
    Dining Room & Bistro
    Fitness Center
    Spa & Sauna
    Mud Room
    Business Center
    13 Zodiacs
    36 Double Kayaks
View Deckplans

Cabin Details

The M/V National Geographic Explorer offers 81 comfortable, outside cabins. All cabins have luxurious amenities, and portholes, windows or balconies. Two cabins and five suites can be configured as triples and 14 cabins are specifically designed for solo travelers.

A modern, compact bedroom features a single bed with beige linens and a light green pillow. Beside it is a green armchair and a window with striped blinds showing the sea. The room also has a framed picture, a small side table, and a glass desk with books and a lamp.
A modern bathroom with blue mosaic tile walls and floor, featuring a vanity with a wooden finish, a white countertop, and a rectangular mirror above it. There are shelves holding toiletries and towels, with a glass-walled shower to the right.

National Geographic Explorer

Single Cabin

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PHONE  + 1-877-784-5400
A cozy cabin room with a wooden bed adorned with white and beige bedding, green patterned pillows, a porthole window, a brown cushioned chair with a green backpack, a coat rack with hanging clothes, and a small shelf with a coffee maker and other amenities.
A modern bathroom with blue mosaic tile walls and floor, featuring a vanity with a wooden finish, a white countertop, and a rectangular mirror above it. There are shelves holding toiletries and towels, with a glass-walled shower to the right.

National Geographic Explorer

Category 1

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PHONE  + 1-877-784-5400
A cozy bedroom features two twin beds with white linens, beige knitted blankets, and decorative green pillows. The room has a wooden headboard, a window with a view of the ocean, a small shelf with a lamp and alarm clock, and a pair of boots and a bag on the floor.
A modern bathroom with blue mosaic tile walls and floor, featuring a vanity with a wooden finish, a white countertop, and a rectangular mirror above it. There are shelves holding toiletries and towels, with a glass-walled shower to the right.

National Geographic Explorer

Category 2

Speak with our team to learn more about cabin options.

PHONE  + 1-877-784-5400
A cozy bedroom features two twin beds with white linens, beige knitted blankets, and decorative green pillows. The room has a wooden headboard, a window with a view of the ocean, a small shelf with a lamp and alarm clock, and a pair of boots and a bag on the floor.
A modern bathroom with blue mosaic tile walls and floor, featuring a vanity with a wooden finish, a white countertop, and a rectangular mirror above it. There are shelves holding toiletries and towels, with a glass-walled shower to the right.

National Geographic Explorer

Category 3

Speak with our team to learn more about cabin options.

PHONE  + 1-877-784-5400
A cozy bedroom features two twin beds with white linens, beige knitted blankets, and decorative green pillows. The room has a wooden headboard, a window with a view of the ocean, a small shelf with a lamp and alarm clock, and a pair of boots and a bag on the floor.
A modern bathroom with blue mosaic tile walls and floor, featuring a vanity with a wooden finish, a white countertop, and a rectangular mirror above it. There are shelves holding toiletries and towels, with a glass-walled shower to the right.

National Geographic Explorer

Category 4

Speak with our team to learn more about cabin options.

PHONE  + 1-877-784-5400
A cruise ship cabin attendant arranges pillows on a neatly made bed with a decorative towel arrangement. The cabin features a large window and a sliding door leading to a balcony with a view of the ocean and a distant glacier.
A modern bathroom with blue mosaic tile walls and floor, featuring a vanity with a wooden finish, a white countertop, and a rectangular mirror above it. There are shelves holding toiletries and towels, with a glass-walled shower to the right.

National Geographic Explorer

Category 5

Speak with our team to learn more about cabin options.

PHONE  + 1-877-784-5400
A cozy hotel room with a seating area featuring a brown leather sofa, an armchair, and a wooden coffee table. The sleeping area, separated by a glass partition, has a large bed with green and blue pillows. A lamp and wardrobe with hanging clothes are also visible.
Modern bathroom featuring a dual-sink vanity with a large mirror above. The space includes turquoise mosaic tile walls, a walk-in shower with a glass door, chrome fixtures, and wood accents. Various toiletries are neatly arranged on shelves and the sink area.

National Geographic Explorer

Category 6 (Suite)

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A cozy cruise ship cabin features a large window with an ocean view, a comfortable couch, a table with a flower vase, and a TV. A couple stands on the balcony, admiring the snowy landscape and icy waters outside.
Modern bathroom featuring a dual-sink vanity with a large mirror above. The space includes turquoise mosaic tile walls, a walk-in shower with a glass door, chrome fixtures, and wood accents. Various toiletries are neatly arranged on shelves and the sink area.

National Geographic Explorer

Category 7 (Suite)

Speak with our team to learn more about cabin options.

PHONE  + 1-877-784-5400

TRIP FAQs

We have so much to share with you! How does this all work? Start with the frequently asked questions below, and if you want to talk to us directly, simply reach out by phone or form.

Talk to a Travel Expert
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You have the flexibility to choose your own travel dates on most of our trips. Certain trips, such as cruises, have fixed schedules. Availability on these trips is always changing so please contact us with your preferred travel time and we can find the perfect itinerary for you.

The first step is to get in touch with a Southern Explorations travel planner for date availability and information on activities, accommodations and other travel aspirations you may have. Give us a call at 1.877.784.5400, fill out this form or email info@southernexplorations.com.

Yes! All of our posted itineraries can be considered a starting point and were happy to tailor a trip to your exact desires. There may be some elements of a trip, such as a cruise or all-inclusive lodge stay, that cannot be modified but we can always adjust the tours around those components.

We provide full service tours so in general our trips include all guided activities with professional English-speaking guides, accommodations, transportation, airport transfers, entrance fees and permits, select meals, and pre-departure services. You will be responsible for international airfare while we will book all in-country airfare. Contact one of our expert travel planners for even more details on this specific tour.

We have more detailed information about each destination in the Plan Your Trip section of this website. Our team of friendly travel planners is also available to walk you through various options and to work with you on the perfect trip!

Plan Your Trip to Antarctica

Browse our in-depth travel guide of Antarctica to learn more about the destination

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Testimonials

Deanna and the entire team were very kind, patient, and accommodating. Id highly recommend them to arrange your Antarctica trip as they source the best itineraries and operators – period.

Steve D.

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