Atlas Ocean Voyages Expands Fly-Cruise Antarctica Programme for 2027-2028 Season

## Atlas Ocean Voyages Expands Antarctic Fly-Cruise Expeditions Atlas Ocean Voyages has announced an expansion of its 'Fly the Drake' expedition programme for the 2027-2028 Antarctic season, according to a company press release issued from Fort Lauderdale, Florida. The move signals growing commercial confidence in fly-cruise formats that bypass the notoriously rough Drake Passage in favour of direct air access to the Antarctic Peninsula. The operator also confirmed limited availability remains on two seven-night departures scheduled for 2026, offering expedition travellers a near-term opportunity to experience the programme ahead of the expanded season. ### Fly-Cruise Format Gains Traction in Expedition Market The 'Fly the Drake' concept has emerged as a significant product differentiator in the ultra-luxury expedition cruise segment. By flying passengers directly to Ushuaia or King George Island and transferring them to the vessel in Antarctic waters, operators eliminate the two-day Drake Passage crossing each way — a stretch of ocean widely regarded as among the most challenging in the world. This approach maximises time in the Antarctic region itself, a key selling point for travellers with limited schedules. Atlas Ocean Voyages, which operates the small expedition vessel *World Navigator* and sister ships in the 200-passenger class, has positioned its Antarctic programme at the premium end of the expedition market. The expansion of fly-cruise departures reflects sustained post-pandemic demand for high-end polar experiences, as well as the operator's strategy to differentiate its product within an increasingly competitive Antarctic expedition landscape. ### Capacity and Regulatory Context Antarctic expedition cruising operates under the framework of the International Association of Antarctica Tour Operators (IAATO), which governs vessel access, landing site management, and passenger limits. Small-ship operators such as Atlas benefit from IAATO's tiered landing permissions, which favour vessels carrying fewer than 200 passengers. Expansion of fly-cruise itineraries, rather than additional vessel deployments, allows operators to increase programme frequency without adding to overall fleet capacity in sensitive polar waters. Full details of the 2027-2028 season departures, including pricing and embarkation points, are available through Atlas Ocean Voyages' trade and direct booking channels.