A cruise offering from Smithsonian Journeys and PONANT

Immerse yourself in a magnificent realm of ice on an unforgettable journey to Antarctica, and encounter astonishing wildlife—from thousands of penguins to breaching whales—on excursions with our naturalists.

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Starting at: $13,660 * Price includes special offer Make a Reservation Ask Us A Question or Call 855-330-1542

Evocative ice forms in Antarctica

Towering mountains of ice

Ice mountains

Adélie penguins in Antarctica

Exploring the ice cliffs by Zodiac

Solitary penguin waiting to jump in the water. Credit: Cara Sucher

Penguin gazing at Le Boréal. Credit: Katryn Wiese

Reflection of an iceberg, Antarctica. Credit: Brenda Morris

Looking out at Le Boréal from an iceberg. Credit: Katryn Wiese

Smithsonian travelers and expert Jim Zimbelman in Antarctica

Chinstrap penguins

Breaching humpback whale

Leopard seal in Antarctica

Travelers going out to explore Antarctica. Credit: Katryn Wiese

Penguins on the ice

On the way back to Le Boréal. Credit: Katryn Wiese

Adelie penguins at home

Antarctica: The White Continent

Aboard the 264-guest L'Austral

12 days from $13,660

A cruise offering from Smithsonian Journeys and PONANT

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JOURNEYS DISPATCHES

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Ship

L'Austral

The highly acclaimed L'Austral, launched by PONANT in 2011, represents the newest generation of five-star small ships, featuring state-of-the-art design, distinctive sophistication, and only 110 staterooms.

Spacious Ocean-View Suites and Staterooms, most with Private Balconies

Each large, deluxe suite and stateroom (200 to 484 square feet) features a private bathroom with shower and luxurious five-star hotel amenities. Most accommodations have two twin beds that convert to one queen bed, individual climate control, satellite flat screen television, wireless Internet access, safe, minibar, full-length closet, writing desk/dressing table, plush robes, and slippers.

Chic and Casual Dining

International and regional cuisine are served in the stylish, spacious Le Coromandel dining room in single, unassigned seating; alfresco in the casual indoor-outdoor Le Rodrigues Restaurant; or from 24-hour room service. Continental and buffet breakfast, buffet lunch, afternoon tea, and a four-course dinner are served daily. Complimentary alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages are included.

Spacious Public Areas and World-Class Service and Facilities

Inviting and spacious public areas accommodate all passengers comfortably. Enjoy views from the Panoramic Lounge, nightly entertainment in the Main Lounge and lectures, cultural performances and film screenings in the state-of-the-art theater. There is a library, Internet salon, Sun Deck, swimming pool, beauty salon, spa, Turkish bath-style steam room, a full range of fitness equipment and two elevators. Complimentary Wi-Fi is provided throughout the duration of the cruise. The infirmary is staffed with a doctor and nurse. The highly trained and personable, English-speaking, international crew provides attentive service.

Respect for the Environment

The state-of-the-art propulsion system and custom-built stabilizers provide an exceptionally smooth, quiet and comfortable voyage by minimizing vibration and engine noise. The ship’s Clean Ship status offers an extreme rarity among ocean cruising vessels, showcasing the paramount importance of and commitment to energy efficiency and environmental protection of marine ecosystems. The ship has 10 Zodiacs.