Atlas Ocean Voyages has unveiled its 2028-29 Antarctic programme, a season of 25 expeditions designed to give travellers flexible ways to reach the White Continent. Running from October 2028 through March 2029, the schedule includes voyages that fly over Drake Passage, sail across it, or combine both—an approach that appeals to time-conscious luxury travellers and those wary of rough seas.
The expeditions will be operated by the line's two polar-class ships, World Navigator and World Traveller, each carrying fewer than 200 guests. This small-ship configuration allows for a yacht-style, all-inclusive experience that has become a hallmark of the brand, with fares starting at US$12,998 per person twin-share. Voyages range from nine to 19 nights, and every package includes a pre-cruise hotel night in Buenos Aires plus return charter flights to Ushuaia, Argentina, the departure hub for all sailings.
Among the 25 departures, four combine a one-way flight over Drake Passage with a sailing return, while two itineraries fly both ways, maximising time around the Antarctic Peninsula. Longer expeditions push deeper into the region, with calls at South Georgia and the Falkland Islands, offering wildlife encounters and sub-Antarctic scenery that appeal to seasoned expedition cruisers.
Early-booking incentives for agents and clients
Cruise Traveller, the exclusive Australian representative for Atlas Ocean Voyages, is sweetening the deal for early planners. Bookings made by 5 January 2027 qualify for an air credit of up to US$2,000 per twin stateroom—a significant incentive for a season that is still more than two years out. The offer is expected to drive early sales momentum, particularly among Australian travellers who often plan Antarctic journeys well in advance.
Joe O’Sullivan, Managing Director of Cruise Traveller, highlighted the appeal of the programme in a statement: “This is a unique opportunity to experience Antarctica’s pristine landscapes and abundant wildlife in comfort and style, with the flexibility to choose how you cross the Drake.” He added that the fly-cruise options are especially popular with clients who want to maximise their time on the continent.
The expedition team will include up to 17 experts, covering fields such as marine biology, glaciology, and polar history. Onboard, guests can expect Zodiac and shore safaris, all beverages, gratuities, and the signature ‘polar plunge’—a rite of passage for many Antarctic visitors. Optional add-ons include kayaking among icebergs and overnight camping on shore, both of which require advance booking and are subject to weather conditions.
Atlas Ocean Voyages has been expanding its polar programme in recent years, and this 2028-29 season builds on that momentum. The line’s focus on small ships and expedition-style travel positions it well in a competitive segment that includes players like Secret Atlas, which has also introduced fly-cruise Antarctic expeditions for 2027-28. For travel agents, the new season offers a clear selling point: a premium product with flexible routing and a generous early-booking incentive.
The 2028-29 programme is now open for sale through Cruise Traveller and other distribution partners. With the air credit deadline set for January 2027, agents are advised to flag the offer to clients early, particularly those who prefer to lock in polar travel plans well ahead of departure.
For more on Atlas Ocean Voyages’ Antarctic strategy, see our earlier coverage of the line’s 25-sailing season and the agent-focused booking incentive launched earlier this year.
