Intrepid Travel has launched its 2022/23 polar itineraries onboard Ocean Endeavor early after tracking a "significant uplift" in interest for Antarctic expeditions.
The adventure specialist will offer three new polar itineraries for 2022/23 exploring the Antarctic wilderness, including a 14-day Christmas and New Year departure.
Intrepid said its decision to launch its new polar range three months early came after it took record bookings for its inaugural 2021/22 polar season in September, and saw a 70% increase in global search traffic for its Antarctica pages.
Itineraries are available at up to a 25% discount to early bookers, with new low deposits available until January. Bookings also come with additional flexibility amid the coronavirus crisis.
Zina Bencheikh, Intrepid managing director EMEA, said: “Unspent holiday funds and months spent at home means Brits are planning those bucket list trips that they’ve always dreamed about.
“Trips exploring the natural world are proving popular, and of course, Antarctica is the ultimate once-in-a-lifetime experience.
“With customers looking to book further ahead than ever, we’re excited to have launched the 2022/23 season with some great offers and a new flexible booking promise.”
Intrepid’s flexible booking promise allows travellers to change their departure date for free up to 30 days before their sailing date.
New voyages include the 14-day Uncharted Antarctica: East and West Peninsula, which explores the less-visited east side of the peninsula, while the 14-day Journey to the Circle gives guests the chance to see in the new year in the company of whales and penguins.
The operator has partnered with the WWF to offer expeditions featuring appearances by WWF-Australia scientists, who will share their insight on whale conservation and research.
All voyages take place onboard the 199-passenger Ocean Endeavor, which also has a serviced organic spa, gym and heated salt water pool, and also offers yoga classes.
There is one member of expedition staff to every eight guests, and additional excursions and activities include camping, snowshoeing, kayaking and the opportunity to take part in a "citizen science" programme in partnership with WWF and Antarctic Science Foundation.
All itineraries are carbon offset and will feature no single-use plastic onboard. Guests will be given a reusable water bottle, and only sustainably sourced seafood will be served.