Lindblad said the decision to launch the service on the 81-cabin vessel was driven by multiple factors.
There are people out there that just dont have the time [otherwise], Lindblad said.
The announcement comes as trips to the continent have surged in popularity.
Credit:JMP Traveler/Getty Images
That number is almost certain to rise, as more and more vessels head south, Lindblad said.
We were the only ship in Antarctica for quite some time, Lindblad observed.
This next season, the average is closer to something like 70.
© Ralph Lee Hopkins
So, extraordinary growth.
These days, the cruise line expects to operate three ships, including theNational Geographic Explorerin the region.
The fly-and-sail trips will begin in November 2024 and continue through February 2025.
Rates start at $9,475 for an eight-day expedition.
