Penguins jumping into the water in Antartica
Winter Sea
Travel
January 29 - February 05, 2026

Antarctica Direct: Fly the Drake Passage

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Elke Weber

About the Study Leader 

Elke Weber, Gerhard Andlinger Professor in Energy and the Environment and Professor of Psychology and Public Affairs 

Professor Weber’s research examines and models the decisions of individuals and groups as they deal with uncertainty and trade-offs in complex threats like climate change. She has served on the Environmental Protection Agency's (EPA) Science Advisory Board, on a Committee on Carbon Neutrality to the German government, and as lead author on the United Nations Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC) Fifth and Sixth Assessment Reports. She is a member of both the German National Academy of Sciences Leopoldina and the U.S. National Academy of Sciences. In 2024, she received the Frontiers of Knowledge Award for her work on human responses to climate change from an interdisciplinary perspective.

About the Journey 

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 albatrosses soar. It’s a true journey of a lifetime that has historically called for multiple weeks of travel, including a round-trip sea crossing of the Drake Passage. 

We are excited to share a more time-efficient way to discover the wonders of the White Continent without sacrificing any of the adventure. On this eight-day journey with National Geographic-Lindblad Expeditions, fly between South America and Antarctica on a round-trip flight and enjoy five adventure-filled days to explore the otherworldly realm at the bottom of the globe. 

Aboard the National Geographic Explorer, each day is filled with new sights and sounds. Greet the southernmost sky with a sunrise stretch session, paddle a kayak past tabular icebergs the size of islands and walk among charismatic penguins. You’ll even have the rare opportunity to peer deep into polar waters from the comfort and safety of the ship via a remotely operated vehicle (ROV). A veteran team of naturalists will be on hand to provide expert perspectives, and a certified photo instructor can help you capture incredible images. 

Princeton travelers will be joined on this adventure by those from Lindblad Expeditions. 

Please note: January 29 is your arrival day in Puerto Natales, Chile. Most travelers from the U.S. will depart their gateway city on January 28 for an overnight flight. 

View photos from our 2022 journey. 

Accommodation 

Hotel Costaustralis Puerto Natales, Chile 
Located in the heart of Puerto Natales, the Hotel Costaustralis sits on the waterfront, offering great views of the sea and the Patagonian Mountains. Enjoy a comfortable lounge, bicycles, laundry service and WiFi. 

National Geographic Explorer 
Designed for in-depth exploration, National Geographic Explorer is the definitive expedition ship, capable of navigating both polar passages and temperate waters. Fully stabilized and with an ice strengthened hull, she provides exceptional comfort, while her dynamic suite of exploration features—including an interactive chart room, a high observation lounge and a low-profile bow with dramatic views—reflect a dedication to curiosity and wonder. National Geographic Explorer accommodates 148 guests and is equipped with Zodiacs, kayaks, a Remotely Operated Vehicle (ROV), and underwater video camera. 

Reservations 

Please register online or contact the Princeton Journeys team at journeys@princeton.edu / 609.258.8686 with questions.

Trip Details