Venturing to Antarctica is an expedition like no other–a chance to explore wonderlands of sculpted snow and ice where whales swim, penguins flock and albatross soar. It’s the true journey of a lifetime. On this new itinerary, we’ll cruise the Drake Passage one way, and then bypass the Drake on the way back on a 2-hour flight from Antarctica and discover all the highlights without sacrificing the extra time. Travel with a team of experts aboard the National Geographic Explorer, the definitive expedition ship. Venture into channels and coves framed by towering peaks. Watch for whales off the bow; Zodiac cruise around enormous icebergs; and hike or kayak. Choose an active agenda or surrender to the pleasures of relaxing downtime and shipboard camaraderie. Plus, get top shots with the help of a National Geographic Photography Expert.