Ponant Explorations has officially announced an expanded Antarctic program for the 2028-2029 season, marking a significant increase in availability for travelers seeking to visit the southernmost continent. The schedule will feature more than 30 departures across four of the company's expedition vessels, a notable expansion from previous years.
The most distinct addition to the 2028-29 lineup is the introduction of the first full circumnavigation of Antarctica. Unlike standard expeditions that typically sail from South America and return to the same port, a circumnavigation involves a continuous voyage that circles the entire continent, offering a comprehensive view of the Antarctic Peninsula, the Weddell Sea, and the Ross Sea without returning to the starting point until the journey concludes.
This expansion comes as demand for polar travel continues to grow. By deploying four vessels to cover over 30 sailings, Ponant aims to accommodate a wider range of travelers while providing more flexibility in departure dates and itineraries. The 2028-29 season represents a strategic move to solidify the company's position in the high-end expedition market.
Editor Take
This expansion matters because it creates a rare, specific booking opportunity for the 2028-29 season that did not exist before: the full circumnavigation. For a traveler planning a trip, this means you must decide now if you want the unique experience of sailing all the way around the continent, as these specific voyages will likely sell out faster than standard trips. Additionally, the increase to 30+ departures suggests that if you miss your preferred date for a standard trip, there are more backup options available than in previous years.
Key Takeaways
- If you are interested in the full circumnavigation of Antarctica, you must book early for the 2028-29 season, as this is a new, unique itinerary that will likely have limited availability compared to standard trips.
- Check the specific departure dates for the 2028-29 season immediately, as the 30+ new sailings offer more flexibility, but popular dates will fill up quickly.
- Verify which of the four vessels will be assigned to the circumnavigation route, as ship size and amenities vary and may impact your comfort level during the longer voyage.
- Review the specific ports of call for the circumnavigation, as this route includes remote areas like the Ross Sea that are not visited on standard Antarctic Peninsula trips.
What Travelers Ask
How does the full circumnavigation differ from a standard Antarctic trip?
A standard trip usually sails from South America to the Antarctic Peninsula and back to the same port. The full circumnavigation sails continuously around the entire continent, visiting areas like the Weddell Sea and Ross Sea that are often missed on shorter trips, and returns to the starting point only after completing the full circle.
Will the new 30+ departures affect prices for existing bookings?
The announcement of new departures does not automatically change prices for existing bookings. However, the increased supply of sailings may offer more options for future bookings, potentially stabilizing prices or providing more competitive rates for the 2028-29 season.
Which vessels will be used for the 2028-29 Antarctic season?
Ponant will use four of its expedition vessels for the 2028-29 season. The specific names of the ships were not detailed in the announcement, but travelers should expect a mix of the company's fleet, which includes various sizes and amenities designed for polar exploration.
Is the circumnavigation suitable for first-time Antarctic travelers?
The circumnavigation is a longer, more comprehensive voyage that covers more ground than standard trips. While it is suitable for first-time travelers, it requires a longer commitment of time and may be more physically demanding due to the extended duration and remote areas visited.