Atlas Ocean Voyages has expanded its 2027-2028 Antarctica programme by adding six additional Fly the Drake Expeditions, responding to strong demand for itineraries that maximise time exploring the Antarctic Peninsula while reducing time spent crossing the Drake Passage.
The newly added departures will be operated aboard the line’s intimate Polar Category C Ice Class expedition yachts, each accommodating fewer than 200 guests and designed for immersive polar exploration.
More Drake Express Departures
The seven-night Drake Express Expedition combines private charter flights between Punta Arenas, Chile, and King George Island with a round-trip cruise through Antarctica, allowing travellers to avoid the traditional two-day Drake Passage crossing in both directions.
The additional departures include:
- 28 November 2027 – World Navigator
- 5 December 2027 – World Navigator
- 12 February 2028 – World Traveller
- 19 February 2028 – World Traveller
Additional Fly & Sail Expeditions
Atlas Ocean Voyages has also added two extra departures of its Drake Fly & Sail Expedition, which allows guests to experience the famous Drake Passage by sea before flying back from Antarctica to Chile.
The new departures are:
- 19 November 2027 – World Navigator
- 3 February 2028 – World Traveller
More Time Exploring Antarctica
Every itinerary includes approximately six full days exploring the Antarctic Peninsula through Zodiac cruises, guided shore landings and wildlife encounters led by Atlas Ocean Voyages’ 17-member Expedition Team.
Guests also receive private charter flights, one-night hotel stays in Punta Arenas before and after the expedition, and seamless transfers throughout the journey.
The charter flight between Punta Arenas and King George Island takes around two hours, significantly reducing travel time compared with the traditional two-day Drake Passage crossing each way.
Limited Availability for 2026
Atlas Ocean Voyages also confirmed that limited availability remains on two Drake Express departures scheduled for 7 December and 14 December 2026.
The expansion of the Fly the Drake programme reflects growing demand for expedition cruises that maximise time in Antarctica while offering travellers a faster and more comfortable route to one of the world’s most remote destinations.
