Luxury expedition cruise line Atlas Ocean Voyages has announced its boldest Antarctic season yet, with two state-of-the-art vessels—World Traveller and World Navigator—poised to lead immersive voyages to Earth’s final frontier during the 2026/2027 austral summer. Combining cutting-edge technology, intimate yacht-style cruising, and a commitment to sustainable exploration, the company aims to redefine polar adventure for discerning travelers.
A Dual-Ship Antarctic Deployment
For the first time, Atlas will deploy both World Traveller and World Navigator to Antarctica, doubling capacity while maintaining its signature small-ship ethos. Each vessel accommodates just 198 guests, ensuring personalized service and minimal environmental impact. Equipped with PC6 ice-strengthened hulls and dynamic positioning systems, these ships enable access to remote fjords, penguin colonies, and historic sites like the Lemaire Channel—often inaccessible to larger cruise lines.
“Antarctica remains the ultimate expedition destination, and our dual-ship strategy reflects growing demand for transformative, eco-conscious travel,” said James Rodriguez, CEO of Atlas Ocean Voyages. “With World Traveller and World Navigator, we deliver unrivaled comfort and safety without compromising the raw beauty of the White Continent.”
2026/2027 Expedition Highlights
- Epic Itineraries:
- Classic Antarctic Peninsula: 9- to 12-day voyages from Ushuaia, Argentina, featuring Zodiac safaris, kayaking amid icebergs, and visits to scientific bases.
- Polar Circle Quest: A 14-day journey crossing the 66°33’ latitude line, offering rare opportunities to spot emperor penguins and witness 24-hour daylight.
- Fly the Drake: Select departures include a chartered flight over the Drake Passage, minimizing sea days for time-crunched travelers.
- Onboard Expertise:
Each expedition is led by a 20-member team of polar biologists, glaciologists, and historians. Guests can attend lectures on climate science, wildlife conservation, and the Heroic Age of Exploration, or capture professional-grade photos with guidance from resident photographers. - Luxury Meets Adventure:
After days of exploration, guests unwind in all-suite accommodations with butler service, dine on regionally inspired cuisine, and relax in heated infinity pools overlooking glacial landscapes. The ships’ “LuminEssence” spa even offers post-excursion massages using Antarctic-inspired wellness rituals.
Sustainability at the Core
Aligned with the International Association of Antarctica Tour Operators (IAATO) guidelines, Atlas has pledged to achieve carbon-neutral expeditions by 2026. Initiatives include:
- Advanced Hybrid Propulsion: Reducing emissions and underwater noise pollution.
- Zero-Waste Partnerships: Recycling 98% of onboard materials and banning single-use plastics.
- Citizen Science Programs: Collaborating with researchers to collect oceanographic data during voyages.
“We believe exploration and preservation must go hand in hand,” Rodriguez emphasized. “Our guests aren’t just tourists—they’re stewards of Antarctica’s future.”
Booking and Early Incentives
Reservations for the 2026/2027 Antarctic season open on October 1, 2024. Early adopters receive:
- 10% savings on suite bookings.
- Complimentary pre-voyage hotel stays in Buenos Aires.
- Priority access to helicopter add-ons (available on select itineraries).
About Atlas Ocean Voyages
Specializing in immersive luxury expeditions, Atlas Ocean Voyages operates a fleet of yacht-inspired ships designed to access remote destinations, from Antarctica to the Arctic. The brand is renowned for its all-inclusive pricing, exceptional crew-to-guest ratios, and commitment to environmentally responsible tourism.
For media inquiries or itinerary details:
Contact: Sarah Collins, Director of Global Communications
Email: media@atlasoceanvoyages.com
Website: www.atlasoceanvoyages.com/antarctica-2026
