The 15-day sailing – Spirit of Antarctica: Expedition for Women – is scheduled to depart on 29 February 2028 and will be led entirely by women, with the expedition team responsible for activities ranging from lectures and educational programming to Zodiac driving, shore landings and hikes.

"There's a special sense of camaraderie and belonging that happens when you have a group of women learning together," said Eliza Carrera, Road Scholar’s Director of Programme Management. "The opportunity to learn from an all-women expedition team will add an extra layer of depth and connection."

The programme, which is priced from $15,999 (£11,850), starts with two nights in Buenos Aires and one night in Ushuaia before passengers board the Sylvia Earle, an expedition vessel named after pioneering marine scientist Sylvia Earle – and one of two AE ships being showcased to UK travel agents this year.

The itinerary includes encounters with penguins, seals and whales, as well as glaciers and icebergs.

'Arctic cruising is about the joy of the search – that's how I'll sell it to clients'

Eight expert-led lectures and 13 field trips are included, alongside access to an onboard library and interactive laboratory. Road Scholar is also bringing in female guest speakers from a range of fields to share their experiences and expertise with participants.

"Many of our participants are contemporaries of these milestones and witnessed these women making history during their own lifetimes," said Ines Arditto, Road Scholar’s Programme Operations Director. "Having these women sharing their stories and expertise is certain to make the experience particularly meaningful."

The group will be limited to 24 participants, with private gatherings intended to encourage discussion and social connection. Single rooms and roommate options will be available to broaden the program's appeal to solo female travellers.