atlas ocean voyage review

Review: World Voyager

Reviewed by Celeste Moure

What is the line?  Atlas Ocean Voyages

Name of ship? World Voyager

Passenger occupancy?  198

Itinerary?  9-Night Ushuaia Roundtrip

Start out with the big picture—what is this cruise line known for?

Traditional expedition ship meets luxury yacht in Atlas Ocean Voyages’ small fleet of vessels. This relatively new line, which sails under the Portuguese flag and currently offers three ships, approaches expedition cruising with the ethos of a luxe but relaxed all-inclusive resort: the décor is contemporary modern, the staff is affable and proficient, the complimentary cocktails flow freely, and much of the cuisine is farm-to-table.

Tell us about the ship in general:

World Voyager , the third ship in Atlas’ fleet, accommodates 198 passengers and offers a one-to-one guest-to-staff ratio, which means you’ll likely be on a first-name basis with the expedition crew and front-of-house staff by the second day of a sailing. Much like sister ship World Traveller , the interior design of this vessel favors a subdued palette in shades of vanilla and taupe with pops of cerulean blue, buttery yellow, and ochre. There are plenty of spaces to spread out and take in the spellbinding views, including a relaxed lounge with floor-to-ceiling windows, by the outdoor pool and hot tub, and, my favorite, in the spa’s relaxation room and sauna.

Who is on board?

I was surprised at the diversity of the crowd, which included a handful of twenty-somethings and solo travelers, older Millennials from the US, India, Australia, Canada, and Europe traveling with friends or with parents, newly retired couples, and a few honeymooners. I traveled with my teenage daughter, and though there were no kids or other teens on the ship, she quickly became part of a clique of younger adults who dined together and played cards in the lounge.

Describe the cabins .

World Voyager has 100 cabins spread across decks 3, 5, and 6. My daughter and I stayed in a Horizon Stateroom, a cozy 270-square-foot room with two single beds (which can be converted to a queen) separated from a sitting area with a sofa and coffee table, swivel chair, and a desk fitted with a mini fridge and Nespresso machine. The marble bathroom featured not only L’Occitane products and a walk-in rain shower with body jets but also enough space to store our personal toiletries. A highlight of our cabin was the Juliette balcony, featuring floor-to-ceiling glass and a top-drop electric window we could open at the touch of a button from a panel by the bed. A step up in category, the Veranda Deluxe and Horizon Deluxe cabins are configured to fit a separate sitting area and walk-out balcony.

Tell us about the crew.

From the cabin and kitchen staff to the waiters, bartenders, and spa attendants—everyone I encountered on this voyage was gracious and eager to help. However, it was clear that this was an inaugural Antarctica voyage not just for the ship but also for many of the crew, some of whom seemed to struggle to find their sea legs as we crossed a tempestuous Drake Passage. Service at mealtimes was spotty during those first few days of our journey, but things got better as the days went on. The expedition staff, led by an entertaining Polar veteran from France, was an interesting mix of experienced and more novice guides, all of whom were not just thrilled to be working on the ship and headed to Antarctica but also to share their expertise in wildlife, the environment, and the geopolitical history of the continent.

What food and drink options are available on board?

Unlike a big ship with tons of restaurant options, this yacht-like vessel offers a main dining room, called Madeira, serving three meals a day. At breakfast there’s a combination of buffet and standard menu items (made-to-order pancakes, omelettes, and French toast) while lunch is a buffet-only affair. Dishes get an elevated treatment at dinnertime, with five-course menus offering a variety of rotating international cuisine options, including an always-present section of Portuguese dishes (a nod to Portugal-based parent company Mystic Cruises).

Sustainable dining is a focus on all Atlas ships, which is highlighted by slow food and zero-waste principles, as well as tasty vegetarian options, such as the always-present plant-based steak. Surprisingly, given that the ship departs from Ushuaia, there were no wines from Argentina or Chile on the menu; the wine list focused on European labels, with many hailing from Portugal.

Paula’s Pantry is a grab-and-go café that serves caffeine drinks as well as smoothies, juice shots, house made muesli and yogurt, tasty granola bars, and heartier snacks like pizza and paninis. The 7Aft Grill by the pool is not open on Antarctica itineraries, but the menu focuses on barbecue fare and grilled meats. And, of course, there’s 24-hour complimentary room service. There are two bars on the ship: the spacious Atlas Lounge, outfitted with plush sofas and swivel chaises surrounding a variety of coffee tables, is perfect for an anytime drink and conversation; and on the top deck, the Dome Observation Lounge is the place to go for afternoon tea and evening cocktails.

Is there a spa on board and is it worth visiting?

What the spa lacks in space, it more than makes up for in the L’Occitane-branded treatments and the stellar service. I spent many hours just daydreaming and marveling at the sea from a heated lounger bed in the relaxation room, as well as unwinding in the sauna, which I particularly appreciated after doing the polar plunge.

What about activities and entertainment?

You won’t find any aqua fitness classes, aerobics, or conga lines on this ship. Instead, you can hit the small gym, which is fitted with a pair of treadmills and stationary bikes as well as free weights, yoga mats, and exercise balls. On the top deck you can do laps on the outdoor running track, featuring arguably the most mesmerizing views on the planet.

If the weather isn’t cooperating, which it probably won’t be on an Antarctica journey, the expedition staff offers daily lectures, as well as afternoon documentaries—pick up a bag of popcorn and a drink on the way into the auditorium. There are also evening performances, such as ballads sung in English, French, and Portuguese by a skilled guest singer who was accompanied on the keys by the ship’s pianist. On other occasions, there might be trivia nights based on Antarctica knowledge. One night, the staff and crew performed a variety show—some performed traditional dances from their respective countries; others played an instrument; some brave souls sang a capella.

How was the experience for families?

I can’t imagine many parents would want to bring kids younger than 12 to Antarctica, and indeed Atlas only welcomes children eight and older. When not out on an expedition or dining with other guests, my fifteen-year-old spent the time reading in the lounge, working out, or watching movies in our cabin.

Where did it sail and how were the excursions? Did anything stand out?

I sailed to Antarctica from Ushuaia on a nine-night itinerary, though taking into consideration that expeditions rely on perfect conditions, I would highly recommend Atlas’ 11-night journey. Every day, the captain decides where the ship will navigate according to local conditions, and the expedition staff briefs guests on the planned activities for the following day. There are typically two excursions per day, which might include Zodiac cruises, landings, and water sports. During my November sailing, I had signed up for optional activities (offered at an additional cost), such as kayaking, stand up paddle boarding, and camping, all of which were canceled due to rough weather. The ability to be flexible, to be patient, and go with the flow is paramount on an Antarctica expedition.

Are there any stand out sustainability or green initiatives about this cruise?

Atlas puts considerable effort on its zero-waste principles and plant-based dining options, which aligns with the philosophy of a growing number of travelers—and not only in the luxury segment. The long-term plan from Atlas’ Executive Chef, Rene Aflenzes, is to bring a bit of the slow-food philosophy to the high seas.

Finally, give a sentence or two on why the cruise is worth booking.

If you are keen on an all-inclusive polar adventure that is at once intimate yet casually elegant, World Voyager is a worthy choice. This young cruise line attracts an equally young (the average age on my sailing was around 40) audience of adventurers; their idea of dressing up for cocktails means pairing an Arc’teryx jacket with a telephoto lens camera or binoculars to not miss a wildlife encounter.

All listings featured on Condé Nast Traveler are independently selected by our editors. If you book something through our links, we may earn an affiliate commission.

By CNT Editors

PART 3: REVIEW: ATLAS OCEAN VOYAGES’ WORLD VOYAGER

The Right Ship for the White Continent

Since its debut only two years ago, Atlas Ocean Voyages, the luxury/expedition arm of Portugal-based Mystic Cruises, best known for its fleet of riverboats, has intrigued this small-ship fan. The line launched in 2021 with World Navigator and World Traveller followed in 2022. My sailing today is the maiden voyage of the line’s third yacht, the 9,935 grt, 198-guest World Voyager which, on Antarctica sailings, has a guest capacity of 176 due to the accommodation of an expanded team of expedition leaders.

Atlas Ocean Voyages is an all-inclusive experience with unlimited beverages (fine wines, spirits, craft beers and 24-hour bar service), all dining, pre-paid gratuities, specialty coffees and teas, fresh pressed juices, L’Occitane bath amenities, stocked in-room mini-bar and more. Antarctica expeditions include a free pre-night hotel stay in Buenos Aires, a free charter flight from Buenos Aires to Ushuaia, transfers, a high-quality parka, use of waterproof Muck Boot Company knee boots, walking sticks, binoculars, and zodiac excursions. Where conditions are suitable, optional kayak and camping excursions are available.

THE SHIP: 10/10

Despite its status as a polar category C Ice Class 1B certified vessel, board World Voyager and you just might think you’re on the way not to the icy Antarctic but to a glamorous world capital.  The atmosphere exudes understated elegance, a clean Nordic feel with blonde woods predominating. From the spacious reception area, manned round the clock, I peek into The Atlas Lounge and find the living room I’d love (if I had a really, really big apartment): plush beige couches and armchairs with throw pillows adding pops of color and golden cocktail and side tables topped with quirky lamps that cast a warm glow.

It doesn’t take me very long to realize that World Voyager might be my favorite size ship of all. With just six passenger decks, and only decks 3, 4 and 7 featuring public spaces, her layout is intuitive from the get-go. Continue forward through the Atlas Lounge, and you’ll find the Amerigo Vespucci Auditorium, “auditorium” being way too cold a word to describe this intimate little theater, if you ask me. Backtrack aft and you’ll find Paula’s Pantry, the grab-and-go (or eat in) coffee/tea/snack/sandwich spot, with Voyager Choice Boutique, L’Occitane Sea Spa (which offers facials and massage only) and the Fitness Studio further along.

Even on our cold-weather itinerary, some guests head to deck 7 and its pool area for a dip into the ship’s hot tubs, but they are in the minority (and certainly braver than I).  For most, deck 7’s greatest draw is The Dome Observation Lounge where guests flock like cape petrels at any time of day. With its 270- degree views, it’s the perfect place to watch a spectacular sunrise, scan the waters for whales or catch an albatross soaring through the sky. Tea time at The Dome means a wide selection of teas and coffees, along with tiered trays of sweets, canapes and finger sandwiches (I swiped every lemon macaron on offer). But The Dome really comes to life after dinner with its lights turned low, unobtrusive music forming a relaxing backdrop and the cocktail menu (available all day) transforming this magical space into the social heart of the ship.

Yes, World Voyager is clearly a stylish and sophisticated luxury yacht but make no mistake: She has not in her design abandoned her commitment to expedition! Nowhere is that more evident than her ample observation areas, whether floor-to-ceiling windows, open decks or designated observation platforms like Water’s Edge on deck 5 forward which features bench seating that is heated from within! And, deep down on deck 3 is the greatest example of her dedication to expedition: The Mud Room, with a separate parka and boot storage compartment for each suite and stateroom and where guests suit up before heading out to zodiac cruises and shore landings.

ACCOMMODATIONS: 10/10

Suites aboard World Voyager include the 465 square-foot Navigator Suite, the 445 square-foot Discovery Suite and the 382 square-foot Journey Suite, all with private balconies, butler service and expanded room service menu.  Stateroom options range from the 183 square-foot Adventure Oceanview to the 300 square-foot Horizon Deluxe.

I am ensconced in a spacious 270 square-foot Horizon stateroom, with sitting area, sectional, chairs and vanity, coffee/tea maker, stocked mini-bar, firm queen bed with luxury linens and, thank you God, a full-length mirror (why are these becoming so rare on ships??). The top panel of my floor-to-ceiling window opens with the press of a button and the marble bath features a shower with rain head, hand-held and body jet options. A large wall-mounted interactive TV lets me view live lectures and briefings from the comfort of my stateroom, watch movies or TV, and view the day’s menus. And here’s a surprise: One doesn’t require a PhD in electronics to figure out the intuitively placed light switches in the stateroom!

DINING: 10/10

It’s 6:00 a.m. and I shuffle down to Paula’s Pantry for coffee. Half asleep, I am confronted with twelve choices and, it seems, nearly as many choices of milk—seriously? When did coffee become so complicated? I go with the Americano and a splash of regular milk and, since the breakfast buffet doesn’t kick off until 8:00 a.m., pick up a plant-based oat power bar which I immediately become addicted to, despite that “plant-based” thing.

As an early riser, I quickly fall in love with Paula’s Pantry, a simple counter with casual table seating, stocked full of breakfast pastries, yogurts, chia pots, muesli, muffins, donuts, whole fruit and fresh-squeezed juices. And I mean fresh-squeezed. Sure, orange is the go-to, but if you’ve never experienced fresh-squeezed apple juice, it’s life changing. The Pantry stays open until evening with its offerings changing throughout the day: sandwiches and pizza, wraps, salads, and cookies appear close to noon and, in a nod to the line’s heritage, they even serve those delicious little Portuguese custard tarts, pastel de nata.

But Paula’s Pantry is just the appetizer, so to speak. Madeira (another nod to Atlas Ocean Voyages’ Portuguese heritage) is where the real culinary adventures unfold. The sole formal restaurant aboard World Voyager , this spacious and comfortable ocean-view dining room serves up breakfast and lunch buffet style, with a supplemental menu of made-to-order hot dishes like omelets, waffles and frittatas at breakfast and, on my sailing, a fresh and smoky leg of Spanish cinco jotas ham, the world’s most exclusive gourmet ham, cut paper thin by an attendant.

At lunch, you might be tempted to head straight for the ice cream bar, with its rich, creamy and innovative selections (blueberry muffin ice cream, anyone?) served in a crispy waffle-cone bowl, but exercise some control. While no separate menu supplements World Voyager’s lunch buffet, who really needs one when the offerings are plentiful (with a special Vegan section) and include a carving station that offers delectable steaks, rack of lamb or carved pork roast and, at the live cooking station, dishes like an earthy and rich truffle risotto or Asian specialties?

In the evening, Madeira really shines with a menu of globally inspired cuisine, beautifully prepared and artistically presented and, with World Voyager an all-inclusive experience, specially selected wines are offered to complement each course.

All the special occasion favorites are here: Dover sole almondine, beef Wellington, poached lobster, rack of lamb and slow-cooked venison, among them, along with a couple of Italian-accented pasta dishes and always-available choices that include 7 oz. black angus steak, lemon-crusted salmon steak and, for vegans, plant-based mountain steak. In fact, plant-based diners have options at every meal aboard World Voyager and I, a devoted carnivore, found myself intrigued by a few of these offerings myself: the rich pumpkin soup generously garnished with pumpkin seeds and the plant-based crepes Suzette among them.

Aboard World Voyager , however, beef lovers are the biggest winners of all, thanks to the tender and flavorful cuts the line sources from Argentina. While that alone can make a steak-lover’s mouth water, this luscious beef is typically prepared on a Josper grill, a charcoal oven that combines innovation and tradition to impart a barbecued smokiness to the perfectly grilled steak without the flames that are, of course, banned at sea! Ole’!

(Note: For those who prefer expeditions of a more culinary nature, Atlas Ocean Voyages will offer a number of warm-weather “Epicurean Expeditions” in the Mediterranean this summer featuring guest chefs and winemakers, cooking demonstrations, culinary experiences ashore and more. When looking at Atlas cruise offerings, ask about Epicurean Expeditions on Atlas Ocean Voyages.

ENTERTAINMENT: 6/10 (aboard an expedition in Antarctica, you’d need a Rolling Stones concert or  Madonna to come anywhere near the entertainment that is provided by the destination itself)

The Crew Show is World Voyager’s Glastonbury, a tremendously entertaining program starring exceptionally gifted crew members who, when they’re not on stage, serve your drinks, deliver your meals, greet you at the entrance to the restaurant or even work behind the scenes in the laundry. With highlights that include a humorous rendition of “Tequila,” a stirring version of Green Day’s “Wake Me Up When September Ends,” a hypnotic Balinese traditional dance and the—I’m not kidding—tear-jerking performance of Josh Groban’s “You Raise Me Up” by the ship’s way-too-talented-to-be-a-cruise-ship-maitre d’ Maitre d’, I’d pay to see this show!

Like most small ships and expeditions, production shows and glittering musical extravaganzas won’t be found aboard World Voyager . Count on a handful of evening cabarets featuring vocalists performing show tunes or pop standards, a performance by the ship’s resident pianist, a dance night and perhaps a film shown in the Americo Vespucci Auditorium.

But it’s not surprising…aboard an expedition in Antarctica, you’d need a Rolling Stones concert or  Madonna to come anywhere near the entertainment that is provided by the destination itself. In fact, the greatest entertainment is sharing the day’s experiences and wildlife sightings with your fellow guests.

For years, I’d always associated the word “expedition” with images of challenge and difficulty but now, after experiencing World Voyager and her maiden voyage to Antarctica, the word conjures different images: Comfort, beauty, luxury, fine dining…and a whole lot of champagne.

COMING SOON!: Part 4: Atlas Ocean Voyages’ World Voyager: Getting My Feet Wet: An Introduction to Antarctica Expedition

Also see: PART 1: WORLD VOYAGER: Atlas Ocean Voyages’ Newest Ship and   PART 2: WORLD VOYAGER: En Route to Ushuaia

Photos credit Judi Cuervo

Cover photo World Voyager, credit Atlas Ocean Voyages

See cruises:  World Voyager  and all  Atlas Ocean Voyages Cruises

Leave a Comment Cancel reply

All Things Cruise is dedicated to the joy of travel. Specializing in ocean, river, ultra-luxury, small ship and expedition cruises.

We would love to have you subscribe for travel updates, news and great offers directly from the cruise lines!

• Atlas On Board
• Atlas Ashore ™
• Always Included
• Antarctica Expedition Team
• Arctic Expedition Team
• Atlas Yacht Club
• 9-Night Ushuaia Roundtrip 10.30.24
• 11-Night Ushuaia Roundtrip 11.8.24
• 9-Night Ushuaia Roundtrip 11.13.24
• 9-Night Ushuaia Roundtrip 11.19.24
• 13-Night Ushuaia Roundtrip 11.22.24
• 5-Night King George Island Roundtrip 11.27.24
• 11-Night Ushuaia Roundtrip 11.28.24
• 5-Night King George Island Roundtrip 12.2.24
• 11-Night Roundtrip Ushuaia 12.9.24
• 11-Night Ushuaia Roundtrip 12.9.24
• 11-Night Ushuaia Roundtrip 1.5.25
• 9-Night Ushuaia Roundtrip 1.6.25
• 11-Night Ushuaia Roundtrip 1.9.25
• 9-Night Ushuaia Roundtrip 1.15.25
• 18-Night Ushuaia Roundtrip 1.16.25
• 11-Night Ushuaia Roundtrip 1.24.25
• 11-Night Ushuaia Roundtrip 2.3.25
• 9-Night Ushuaia Roundtrip 2.4.25
• 11-Night Ushuaia Roundtrip 2.11.25
• 9-Night Ushuaia Roundtrip 2.13.25
• 10-Night Ushuaia Roundtrip 1.5.26
• 10-Night Ushuaia Roundtrip 1.6.26
• 18-Night Ushuaia Roundtrip 1.8.26
• 9-Night Ushuaia Roundtrip 1.15.26
• 9-Night Ushuaia Roundtrip 1.16.26
• 9-Night Ushuaia Roundtrip 1.24.26
• 11-Night Ushuaia Roundtrip 1.25.26
• 11-Night Ushuaia Roundtrip 1.26.26
• 11-Night Ushuaia Roundtrip 2.2.26
• 9-Night Ushuaia Roundtrip 2.5.26
• View Antarctica
• 7-Night Tromso to Longyearbyen 6.21.24
• 9-Night Longyearbyen Roundtrip 6.28.24
• 9-Night Longyearbyen Roundtrip 7.7.24
• 11-Night Longyearbyen Roundtrip 7.16.24
• 10-Night Reykjavik to Kangerlussuaq 8.5.24
• 10-Night Kangerlussuaq to Reykjavik 8.15.24
• 11-Night Reykjavik to Kangerlussuaq 8.21.24
• 12-Night Reykjavik to Longyearbyen 8.25.24
• 11-Night Kangerlussuaq to Reykjavik 9.1.24
• 9-Night Longyearbyen to Reykjavik 9.6.24
• 24-Night Edinburgh To Longyearbyen 6.17.25
• 12-Night Trondheim to Longyearbyen 06.29.25
• 9-Night Longyearbyen Roundtrip 7.11.25
• 11-Night Longyearbyen Roundtrip 7.20.25
• 18-Night Copenhagen To Longyearbyen 8.8.25
• 10-Night Reykjavík To Kangerlussuaq 8.09.25
• 9-Night Tromso to Longyearbyen 8.17.25
• 10-Night Kangerlussuaq To Reykjavík 8.19.25
• 9-Night Longyearbyen Roundtrip 8.26.25
• 10-Night Longyearbyen to Reykjavik 9.4.25
• View The Arctic
• 11-Night London to Tromso 6.10.24
• 11-Night Oslo to Reykjavik 8.10.24
• 8-Night Reykjavik to Amsterdam 9.12.24
• 9-Night Dublin to London 9.23.24
• 10-Night London to Glasgow 5.26.25
• 12-Night Edinburgh to Trondheim 6.17.25
• 11-Night Reykjavik to Oslo 7.10.25
• 9-Night Stockholm To Copenhagen 7.30.25
• 9-Night Copenhagen to Tromso 8.8.25
• 14-Night Reykjavík to Dublin 8.29.25
• 7-Night Reykjavík to Dublin 8.29.25
• View Northern Europe
• 9-Night Reykjavik to Bergen 6.9.24
• 9-Night Reykjavik Roundtrip 7.3.24
• 11-Night Reykjavik to Oslo 7.12.24
• 8-Night Reykjavik to Dublin 9.15.24
• 7-Night Reykjavik Roundtrip 6.19.25
• 8-Night Reykjavík To Dublin 09.14.25
• View Iceland & Greenland
• 21-Night Lisbon to Tromso 5.31.24
• 10-Night Athens to Valletta 6.14.24
• 7-Night Valletta to Dubrovnik 6.24.24
• 7-Night Dubrovnik to Athens 7.1.24
• 9-Night Athens to Rome 7.15.24
• 12-Night Rome to Athens 7.24.24
• 9-Night Athens to Venice 8.5.24
• 9-Night Valletta Roundtrip 8.23.24
• 8-Night Valletta to Rome 9.1.24
• 15-Night Valletta to Nice 9.1.24
• 12-Night Las Palmas to Casablanca 4.15.25
• 15-Night Barcelona to Rome 05.05.25
• 17-Night Lisbon to Zeebrugge 5.20.25
• 7-Night Rome to Barcelona 05.20.25
• 7-Night Lisbon To Bordeaux 5.20.25
• 14-Night Barcelona To Venice 5.27.25
• 10-Night Bordeaux to Zeebrugge 5.27.25
• 11-Night Venice To Rome 6.10.25
• 8-Night Naples To Nice 7.12.25
• 16-Night Naples To Barcelona 7.12.25
• 10-Night Santa Cruz (Tenerife) To Lisbon 4.9.26
• View Mediterranean
• 10-Night Montevideo to Ushuaia 11.3.24
• 13-Night Ushuaia to Buenos Aires 4.2.25
• 10-Night Buenos Aires to Rio de Janeiro 3.16.26
• 14-Night Rio de Janeiro to Tenerife 3.26.26
• View South America
• 16-Night Palma de Mallorca to Las Palmas 9.23.24
• 13-Night Las Palmas to Rio de Janeiro 10.14.24
• View Transoceanic
• View The Caribbean
• 13-Night Ushuaia to Buenos Aires 3.3.26
• View Patagonia & The Falklands
• Polar Expeditions
• Epicurean Expeditions
• Cultural Expeditions
• Accommodations
• Conscious Navigation
• Our Company
• Executive Team
• Our Partners
• Salute and Sail Savings
• Adventure Beyond Savings
• New 2025 2026 Antarctica Expeditions
• Academia Barilla
• New 2025 Expeditions
• Second Guest Sails Free
• New 2025 Arctic Expeditions
• Sail More Save More
• Single Explorer Savings
• Military Edge

Guest Reviews

Firsthand experiences with intimate yachting expeditions ™, 4th time with atlas, by:  travel advisor, reviewed on:  april 2024.

I’ve sailed four times with my clients aboard an Atlas Ocean Voyages expedition, and even though I travel nonstop on all of the other expedition lines, I still prefer Atlas. There is NO service and crew like ATLAS. They set the bar so high no one has ever come close. I judge all ships by Atlas – seriously the best.

ATLAS EXPERIENCE HIGHLIGHTS

By:  julie | guest.

The food on board during my Antarctica cruise was an absolute delight from start to finish. Whether it was breakfast, lunch, or dinner, there was always an extensive selection of dishes catering to a wide range of tastes and dietary preferences. The staff on World Voyager™ went above and beyond to ensure an exceptional experience for every passenger. Not only were they friendly and efficient, but they also made an effort to create a personalized and welcoming atmosphere. From remembering your name to anticipating your needs, their attention to detail was remarkable.

Antarctica was absolutely stunning. The ice had different shades of blue and beautiful patterns carved into it by nature. The towering glaciers, flowing down into the sea, were mind-blowing. Hiking to the summit through the snow-covered terrain, we were rewarded with breathtaking panoramic views that stretched as far as the eye could see. The tranquility and silence of this remote location were humbling, allowing us to connect with nature on a profound level. For the adventurous at heart, Atlas offers the thrilling opportunity to take a polar plunge. This is a proper bucket list activity.

This Antarctica trip is one of the most beautiful trips I have ever done. Atlas is superb for Antarctica. It is luxurious, comfortable, and has excellent food. But even more important, it has been purpose built for those Antarctica adventures and has a dedicated expedition team to help you make sense of it all. I thoroughly enjoyed my trip with Atlas and hope to be able to cruise with them again.

Full review: https://thisisluxurytravel.com/cruise-review-atlas-world-voyager-cruise-in-antarctica/

EXPERIENCE OF A LIFETIME

By:  michael | guest, reviewed on:  march 2024.

We were on World Traveller™ to Antarctica in early March 2024. This experience of a lifetime was made even better by Atlas and the crew! Rosalee, Alex, Morgan, Cristina in the dining room, and my favorite Malcolm put in personal touches to make everything unforgettable! Attention to detail was clearly evident for the entire trip! From Cristina remembering our names by the second day and carrying my plate to the table (I have a bad knee) to Malcolm's endless knowledge of everything we were looking at while on his Zodiac tours! Thank you to the entire crew!

SOMETHING SPECIAL

By:  scott | guest, reviewed on:  february 2024.

Atlas has something special going on. It’s their people, they connect with their guests, and they take great care of you and provide excellent service. We had an absolutely great time and saw pretty much everything on the list in spectacular fashion. Oh, the pre-cruise excursion experience in Buenos Aires and the Falls was great as well.

WHAT A TRIP!!!!!!!!

By:  tracy & shelby | guests, reviewed on:  january 2024.

Just want to thank you for the most amazing trip to Antarctica. Atlas Ocean Voyages was top notch, everything we dreamed of and definitely more! The accommodations, the food, the landings and lectures, most of all we were so impressed with the onboard staff.

Everything was AMAZING! We all agreed that this voyage to Antarctica was so very special, and we wouldn’t hesitate to recommend it to friends. I’m still pinching myself to know that we have now set foot on all seven continents and completed that portion of our daughter’s bucket list. Needless to say, it exceeded our expectations.

Beyond Expectations

By:  gary | guest.

"Atlas is a great expedition line in EVERY respect. Our staff of expedition subject matter experts was superior. And the hotel aspects were beyond expectations."

Food & Service Were Excellent

By:  judy | guest.

"We are home! What a fabulous trip it was. All went well with no hiccups at all. Atlas proved to be a superb company and I am so glad that we went with them on this trip. Their dedication to sustainability is applaudable … of course the food and service were excellent."

Marvelous in Every Detail

By:  william | guest, reviewed on:  october 2023.

“All sectors of the crew were skilled, attentive, and friendly in every encounter. The cuisine was marvelous in both informal and formal settings, treats to the eye as well as the palate. The expedition team, from varied countries and backgrounds, gave excellent lectures and kept everyone safe on the water and land.”

First-Class Onboard Experience

By:  laurie | guest, reviewed on:  september 2023.

“My expedition to the Arctic was my first with Atlas and they did not disappoint. I am a seasoned traveler with high expectations and Atlas delivered. The onboard experience is exceptional with first-class service.”

Impeccable Service

By:  nancy | travel advisor, reviewed on:  june 2023.

“I must tell you that Nuno, the hotel manager, as well as every other crew member (Wayan, Claudia, Warren, Christian and many others) have completely bowled us all over with the level of service, kindness, and commitment to providing an exception brand and product. Bravo!”

Above & Beyond

By:  linda t | travel advisor.

“We recently returned from 3 back-to-back Epicurean cruises in the Mediterranean aboard the World Navigator and loved every minute of travel. We are serious travelers, most often choosing a trip for the destination, but as it turned out this time and unbeknownst to us when booking, the ship and its outstanding crew would wind up surpassing even their spectacular itineraries. Hats off to the Human Resource Department for assembling such a kind and professional staff, by far the best that we have ever sailed with. Won’t say that every single thing was perfect, but then again what is! We are now home, and three weeks later, we are still talking about the trip and the fine Atlas people on board.

Can’t wait to sail on a beautiful Atlas ship again and look forward to another great crew experience!”

World Navigator Commendation

By:  karen | guest, reviewed on:  may 2023.

I had a lovely experience on World Navigator between Málaga and Barcelona. Below are a few of my thoughts about my time spent on the World Navigator, which was beyond my expectations.

The ship is elegant, understated and very comfortable with ample meeting areas to gather and celebrate, or simply sit and reflect. The staterooms are very spacious with more than enough closet, drawer and shelf space for two women with a lot of clothes! The bathrooms are amazing, and, even the linens, towels and robes are exquisite. The Porto dining room is lovely and, although the ship was full, never felt crowded.

What made this cruise outstanding, however ... , was the crew! They each went above and beyond to ensure that each passenger felt like a welcome guest and that all their needs were anticipated and met. Each department head and their staff must have been selected from the best of the best cruise lines. Nuno, the hotel manager, Helder, the maître d’ and Bob, the cruise director, all had an omnipresence on board and were always available to answer questions and engage the guests. Specifically, at the “White Night” in Ibiza, after a beautifully prepared and delicious dinner, Helder, Nuno and their teams began dancing with the entertainment AND, sought out and invited guests to join them as they salsaed and sambaed around the pool deck. It was an evening beyond compare due to Helder and Nuno. What was a fun evening became a fantastic evening and memory. Likewise, the cultural immersion event, which was fabulous, became all the more so because we were involved in the preparation of the paella. Jonathan Phang was another unexpected joy who engaged and encouraged guest participation, acting as chef, photographer and entertainer — always with a smile!

The front-line teams were wonderful, as well. Andres and Claudia from Paula’s Pantry greeted me with a sunny “good morning” and chatted as they prepared the coffee. The dining room staff were always cheerful, smiling and happy to assist. Katharine, Wong, Erick, Edison, and Ruban all exceeded the service standards and friendliness of the best cruise lines.

My stateroom was always impeccably cleaned, replenished and cared for by Abdos. It was a joy to step into the corridor and hear his cheerful greeting. On my last evening on board, eight of us gathered at deck five aft to sample wine purchased at a vineyard outside of Valencia and salami bought in Mahón de Menorca. Katharine and Helder cooled the Chardonnay and Cava, set up enough glasses for us all to sample each wine and prepared a charcuterie board with a lovely selection of cheese and breads to accompany the salami, which Helder had sliced for us. It was a beautiful way to conclude my time on board and to toast with friends.

Additionally, I was extremely impressed with the responsiveness of the crew. On the mid-cruise questionnaire, I asked if grapefruit could be served with breakfast. A day later, there was a platter of sliced grapefruit at the breakfast buffet — THANK YOU!

Having started my career as a flight attendant with Pan Am, then American, during the last of the golden years of flying, I am acutely aware of how the service provided to the passengers influences the loyalty of a passenger. The mission statement printed on a large mirror at the entrance/exit to the American crew lounge read, “Make every passenger a repeat passenger.” The crew of the World Navigator certainly accomplished that as I am contemplating which itineraries will make up my next cruise with Atlas! I was thrilled to learn that there will soon be a loyalty program at Atlas.

Thank you for a wonderful cruise and many unforgettable memories.

By:  Cruise Critic Guest

Reviewed on:  february 2023.

“My group just got back over the weekend, and everyone raved about Atlas, the staff and service, the excursions. Everything. They all said 100% they would sail with them again.”

Better-Than-Anticipated Antarctica

By:  brian | guest.

“I’m not a cruiser, but I knew I needed to take a cruise to get to Antarctica. I loved that it was a smaller ship so it could navigate shallower bays (and icebergs). The food was fantastic and was only surpassed by the incredible service by everyone on board.”

Antarctica Sailing on Jan

By:  kristin | travel advisor, reviewed on:  january 2023.

“It was a spectacular experience. The staff was phenomenal and fun too. The cabins and ship are beautiful.”

Superior Expedition

By:  rick | guest.

“I was especially impressed with the quality of the program staff on board – superior to all previous cruise experiences. Communication between ship and passengers was excellent, so that we always knew what was happening and what to expect.”

Exceeded Every Expectation

By:  tony | guest.

“Thank you for the exceptional experience we enjoyed on board World Navigator! Our stateroom, the ship’s personnel, fine dining, entertainment, Zodiac excursions/landings and expedition staff exceeded every expectation. Every aspect of this adventure was absolutely perfect. Against Antarctica’s backdrop, it was phenomenal!”

Perfect Balance of Luxury and Expedition

By:  peter and therese | guests.

“For years, I have been looking for a cruise to Antarctica that combines adequate time off the ship experiencing the spectacular scenery and wildlife with all the comforts of a luxury cruise that my wife would appreciate. The Atlas Ocean Voyages World Traveller expedition cruise that we have just completed fit the bill perfectly. The ship was the ideal size with well under 200 passengers.”

Spectacular Trip, Crew and Ship

By:  cleetzow | guest, reviewed on:  december 2022.

“I recently traveled to Antarctica on World Navigator, and in summary it was a spectacular trip, crew and ship. The food on board and the included wine/alcohol was amazing. I was met by crew members greeting me by name as I walked through the ship. It was such an intimate experience. My room and accommodations were amazing and my butler was always attentive and met every request.”

By:  Davisbmd | Guest

“WOW. What a fantastic cruise experience. ANTARCTICA! WOW. The ship was beautiful, functional, and extremely comfortable. Love the small expedition trip adventure.”

13-Night Longyearbyen to Edinburgh

By:  lorna | guest, reviewed on:  september 2022.

“It was absolutely delightful, and I would highly recommend this cruise to anyone who would be interested in this part of the world! The ship was most comfortable in all respects, and all of the crew members were exceptional! We look forward to planning another cruise with Atlas!”

Display Name

Your Review

I am a Travel Advisor

JOIN OUR EMAIL LIST.

Atlas experience, travel advisors, media center.

Sign up and be the first to know about special offers, new itineraries and more.

Agency Name

• All Destinations Antarctica  (70) Arctic  (21) Caribbean  (0) Holy Land and Egypt  (5) Iceland and Greenland  (17) Mediterranean  (46) Northern Europe  (18) Patagonia and The Falklands  (4) South America  (5) Transoceanic  (3) Select
• All Yachts World Navigator  (52) World Traveller  (53) World Voyager  (57) Select
• All Ports Cruising Greenland Sea  (1) Otranto (Puglia), Italy  (2) Bastia (Corsica), France  (2) Koper, Slovenia  (1) Rijeka, Croatia  (1) Navigating the Strait of Messina  (1) Ajaccio (Corsica), France  (1) Rønne (Bornholm), Denmark  (1) Binz (Rügen), Germany  (1) Sandnes, Norway  (3) Santa Maria Island (Azores), Portugal  (1) São Jorge Island (Azores), Portugal  (1) Palmeira (Sal), Cape Verde  (1) Exploring South Georgia – Captain’s Choice  (5) Positano, Italy  (2) Piraeus (Athens), Greece  (8) Barcelona, Spain  (11) Búzios, Brazil  (2) Cartagena, Spain  (4) Chania/Souda, Crete, Greece  (2) Civitavecchia (Rome), Italy  (12) Capri, Italy  (8) Ravello, Italy  (2) Giardini Naxos (Taormina/Mt. Etna), Italy  (2) Syracuse (Sicily), Italy  (3) Gozo, Malta  (2) Valletta, Malta  (8) Lisbon, Portugal  (16) Gibraltar, UK  (7) Malaga, Spain  (8) Palma de Mallorca, Spain  (6) Mahon (Menorca), Spain  (5) Portofino, Italy  (6) Giardini Naxos (Taormina/Mt. Etna)  (1) Zakynthos, Greece  (2) Katakolon (Olympia), Greece  (3) Puerto Banus (Marbella), Spain  (2) Trapani (Sicily), Italy  (3) Patmos, Greece  (1) Corinth Canal Transit  (3) Itea (Delphi), Greece  (2) Naples (Pompeii), Italy  (2) Livorno (Florence/Pisa), Italy  (9) Marseilles (Aix-en-Provence), France  (5) Valencia, Spain  (1) Rio de Janeiro, Brazil  (3) Funchal (Madeira), Portugal  (3) Santa Cruz (Tenerife), Canary Islands, Spain  (4) Recife, Brazil  (1) Ilhabela, Brazil  (1) Punta del Este, Uruguay  (3) Montevideo, Uruguay  (4) Ushuaia, Argentina  (69) Buenos Aires, Argentina  (4) Port Stanley, Falkland Islands - Captain’s Choice  (9) Puerto Madryn, Argentina  (1) Exploring the South Sandwich Islands – Captain’s Choice  (6) Exploring the South Shetland Islands - Captain’s Choice, Antarctica  (65) Kusadasi (Ephesus), Turkey  (1) Itajai/Florianopolis, Brazil  (1) Drake Passage Navigation  (65) Crossing the Antarctic Circle — Captain’s Choice  (32) Santorini, Greece  (2) Motril (Alhambra), Spain  (1) Praia (Santiago), Cape Verde  (2) Arrecife (Lanzarote), Canary Islands  (5) Casablanca, Morocco  (8) Portimão, Portugal  (10) Sagres, Portugal  (2) Seville, Spain  (6) Ibiza, Spain  (4) Monte Carlo, Monaco  (3) Sorrento (Pompeii), Italy  (1) Porto-Vecchio (Corsica), France  (1) Sete (Montpellier), France  (2) Cadiz, Spain  (3) Leixoes (Porto), Portugal  (7) La Coruña, Spain  (5) Bordeaux, France  (9) St. Peter Port (Guernsey), Channel Islands  (7) London (Tower Bridge), England  (6) St Mary’s (Isles of Scilly), England  (2) Cork (Cobh), Ireland  (3) Galway, Ireland  (2) Killybegs, Ireland  (2) Londonderry, Northern Ireland  (2) Bangor (Belfast), Northern Ireland  (7) Dublin, Ireland  (10) Lerwick (Shetland Islands), Scotland  (2) Glasgow (Greenock), Scotland  (2) Fort William (Loch Ness), Scotland  (1) Stornoway (Isles of Lewis), Scotland  (4) Bergen, Norway  (8) Flåm, Norway  (8) Olden, Norway  (1) Geiranger, Norway  (7) Kristiansund, Norway  (1) Trondheim, Norway  (5) Leknes (Lofoten Islands), Norway  (4) Arctic Circle Crossing  (2) Tromsø, Norway  (8) Longyearbyen (Svalbard), Norway  (14) Ny-Ålesund (Svalbard), Norway  (10) Ittoqqortoormiit, Greenland  (3) Isafjörður, Iceland  (8) Reykjavik, Iceland  (7) Heimaey (Vestmannaeyjar), Iceland  (5) Tórshavn (Faroe Islands), Denmark  (5) Kirkwall (Orkney Islands), Scotland  (2) Invergordon (Loch Ness), Scotland  (2) Leith (Edinburgh), Scotland  (5) Douglas, Isle of Man  (5) Liverpool, England  (1) Riga, Latvia  (1) Tallinn, Estonia  (1) Helsinki, Finland  (1) Stockholm, Sweden  (1) Gdansk, Poland  (1) Ijmuiden (Amsterdam), The Netherlands  (5) Honfleur (Normandy), France  (5) St. Malo, France  (5) Punta Arenas, Chile — Captain’s Choice  (1) Hydra, Greece  (1) Nafplion (Mycenae/Epidaurus), Greece  (3) Cassis (Aix-En-Provence), France  (1) Nice, France  (10) Corfu, Greece  (2) Dubrovnik (Old Town), Croatia  (6) Las Palmas (Gran Canaria), Canary Islands, Spain  (8) Hvar Island, Croatia  (2) Kotor, Montenegro  (8) Porto Santo, Madeira, Portugal  (2) Portoferraio (Tuscany), Italy  (3) Porto Venere, (Cinque Terre), Italy  (4) Sanary-Sur-Mer (Bandol), France  (1) Sarandae (Butrint), Albania  (3) Stromboli Volcano Circumnavigation  (2) Tangier, Morocco  (9) Trogir, Croatia  (2) Venice, Italy  (6) Rabat (Casablanca), Morocco  (1) Glacier Alley - Captain’s Choice  (1) Magdalena Island, Chile — Captain’s Choice  (2) New Island, Falkland Islands — Captain’s Choice  (5) West Point Island, Falkland Islands — Captain’s Choice  (3) Lipari Island (Sicily), Italy  (5) Fiskardo (Kefalonia), Greece  (3) Sibenik, Croatia  (1) Monopoli, Italy  (1) San Remo, Italy  (1) Saint-Tropez, France  (3) Port-Vendres, France  (3) Roses, Spain  (1) Alicante, Spain  (3) Almeria (Granada), Spain  (3) Puerto del Rosario(Fuerteventura), Canary Islands, Spain  (3) Safi, Morocco  (7) San Sebastian (La Gomera), Canary Islands, Spain  (4) Santa Cruz (La Palma), Canary Islands, Spain  (5) Santander, Spain  (2) Akureyri, Iceland  (7) Grundarfjörður, Iceland  (5) Kangerlussuaq, Greenland  (6) Nuuk, Greenland  (6) Narsarsuaq, Greenland  (3) Ilulissat (Disko Bay), Greenland  (4) Sisimiut, Greenland  (1) Kangaamiut, Greenland  (1) Arsuk, Greenland  (3) Nanortalik, Greenland  (1) Itilleq, Greenland  (1) Crossing N80° Moffen - Captain’s Choice  (8) Patreksfjörður, Iceland  (1) Seyðisfjörður, Iceland  (6) Gudvangen, Norway  (7) Kristiansand, Norway  (2) Arendal, Norway  (2) Porto Cervo (Sardinia), Italy  (4) Zeebrugge (Bruges), Belgium  (2) Oslo, Norway  (3) Ilheus, Brazil  (1) Ålesund, Norway  (8) Exploring Greenland-Captain’s Choice  (3) Exploring Svalbard - Captain’s Choice  (14) Fjords of Greenland — Captain’s Choice  (3) Eskifjordur, Iceland  (1) Grimsey, Iceland  (1) Hammerfest, Norway  (3) Exploring the Antarctic Peninsula – Captain’s Choice  (69) Gijon, Spain  (5) Agadir, Morocco  (5) Palamós, Spain  (1) Parga, Greece  (2) Split, Croatia  (1) Saint-Raphael , France  (2) Toulon, France  (2) Garibaldi Glacier, Chile — Captain’s Choice  (4) Skagen, Denmark  (2) Stavanger, Norway  (4) Sisimiut, Greenland  (2) Praia da Vitoria (Azores), Portugal  (1) Bilbao, Spain  (6) Holyhead, Wales  (1) Eqi Glacier (Disko Bay), Greenland  (4) Prince Christian Sound – Captain’s Choice  (6) Reykjavik, Iceland  (13) Copenhagen, Denmark  (3) La Goulette, Tunisia  (1) Mindelo (Sao Vicente), Cape Verde  (1) Menton, France  (1) Mykonos, Greece  (3) Igoumenitsa, Greece  (1) King George Island, South Shetland Islands  (8) Ilha Grande, Brazil  (1) Newcastle upon Tyne, England  (2) Molde, Norway  (2) Reine, Norway  (2) Lofoten & Vaerøy Islands Cruising  (2) Skarsvåg (North Cape), Norway  (3) Qaqortoq, Greenland  (2) Paamiut, Greenland  (2) Akulleq Island, Greenland  (2) Waterford, Ireland  (2) Bantry, Ireland  (3) Falmouth, England  (1) Poole, England  (1) Ancona, Italy  (2) Durres (Tirana), Albania  (3) Sao Francisco do Sul, Brazil  (1) Isla de los Estados, Argentina  (3) Magdalena, Chile - Captain’s Choice  (1) Exploring the South Orkney Islands - Captain’s Choice, Antarctica  (8) At Sea  (71) Spetses, Greece  (1) Messina (Sicily), Italy  (1) Aberdeen, Scotland  (3) Scrabster, Scotland  (3) Måløy, Norway  (3) Crotone (Calabria), Italy  (1) Porto Santo Stefano, Italy  (1) Kongsbreen Glacier Cruising — Captain’s Choice  (2) Caen (Normandy), France  (2) Dunkirk, France  (2) La Rochelle, France  (1) Rouen (Paris), France  (2) Saint-Jean-de-Luz, France  (4) Bodø, Norway  (2) Alta, Norway  (2) Höfn, Iceland  (3) Siglufjörður, Iceland  (1) Greenock (Glasgow), Scotland  (1) Tobermory, Scotland  (3) Ullapool, Scotland  (1) Tilbury (London), England  (1) Klaipeda, Lithuania  (1) Vilagarcía (Santiago de Compostela), Spain  (2) Zadar, Croatia  (1) Select
• All Offers Drake Fly & Sail  (0) Fall Savings Event  (0) Select

We're here for you!

Let us connect you with an Atlas Ocean Voyages expert to help you plan the best vacation today.

Phone Number

For immediate assistance call us at 1.844.44.ATLAS (28527).

I am a Travel Advisor I am working with a Travel Advisor I am not working with a Travel Advisor

Privacy Policy

World Navigator

The first ship in Atlas Ocean Voyages ’ fleet of expedition-style vessels, 196-passenger  World Navigator , sailed its inaugural season in August 2021 in the Mediterranean before heading to the Caribbean, South America, and Antarctica. The Fort Lauderdale-based company is a subsidiary of Portugal’s Mystic Invest Holding, which operates river cruise line DouroAzul and other brands. This polar-rated ship and two others, 2022’s World Traveller and 2023’s World Voyager , offer “luxe-adventure” cruising to “destinations less traveled” as well as Cultural and Epicurean Itineraries focused on regional food, wines, history, and traditions. A fourth ship, World Seeker, is scheduled to launch in 2025.

The Balconies and Picture Windows:  All 98 staterooms and suites feature an ocean view—and nearly 90 percent have a balcony. They come in eight categories, ranging from 183-square-foot Adventure Staterooms with a large picture window and a mosaic-tiled spa shower to 465-square-foot one-bedroom Navigator Suites with a spa shower and bathtub plus a 106-square-foot veranda. A notable option is the 270-square-foot Horizon Staterooms, which feature a floor-to-ceiling glass wall with an upper panel that slides open to make the entire cabin a veranda. Atlas’s Porto-based parent company originally developed the concept for its DouroAzul river ships. 

The World-Spanning Itineraries: World Navigator can take you to remote places you’ve long dreamed of visiting — Expedition Itineraries to see the vast expanses of the Arctic, the rugged beauty of the Norwegian fjords, the volcanic landscapes of Iceland, and the otherworldly continent of Antarctica — or carry you back to more familiar locales in the Mediterranean, the British Isles, and Northern Europe on Epicurean and Cultural Itineraries. 

Design That’s Not Fussy: Laid-back elegance is the brand’s design mantra and using a blend of classic and contemporary styles — a touch of Art Deco in muted greens, blues, and neutrals in the staterooms and panoramic lounge — combined with a heated pool and whirlpools and restaurants featuring regionally-inspired gourmet cuisine, Atlas has created a soothing environment for its luxe-adventure brand.

A Focus on Sustainability: Like a growing number of cruise lines, Atlas has banned single-use plastics aboard its ships. But World Navigator  also cruises with the benefit of the latest hybrid power management and propulsion system that consumes as little as one-fifth the fuel of conventional cruise ship systems. And with its alternate hydro-jet propulsion, it can quietly cruise up to five knots without disturbing sensitive marine wildlife. 

Authenticity Seekers: Atlas describes its intended cruise clientele as “low-key connoisseurs in search of authentic cultural experiences and once-in-a-lifetime journeys.” And 423-foot-long  World Navigator  is built to deliver that with a 1B-Ice Class-certified hull and custom-designed Zodiac MilPro Mark V inflatable boats to ferry passengers ashore in even the remotest bucket-list locales.

All-Inclusive Luxe-Adventure Has a High Price Tag:  While accommodation, food, beverages, gratuities, and Wi-Fi are included and sailings to less-remote destinations to indulge your passion for all things food and wine or to enjoy cultural and historical immersion are priced similar to other small luxury lines, a bucket-list excursion to Antarctica or the Arctic begins around $12,000 to $15,000 per person.

ShermansTravel Editorial Staff Deal Expert / Travel Blogger

Everything you want to know about cabins and suites on Atlas Ocean Voyages ships

The world's newest cruise line, Atlas Ocean Voyages, is all about retro-chic elegance when it comes to its onboard accommodations.

The Fort Lauderdale-based brand, which just launched its first departure with paying passengers this week , is operating a single small ship named World Navigator for now that boasts cabins and suites with glossy mahogany walls and chrome accents that evoke 1940s glamor.

The rooms also feature sumptuous silvery blue and green fabrics, leather-stitched surfaces, and marble-lined bathrooms that add an air of luxury and sophistication.

Designed to carry just 196 passengers, the vessel is what the cruise world calls an expedition ship. That is, it's built extra tough to go to some of the most remote and off-the-beaten-path parts of the world, from the Arctic to Antarctica. But it's also billed as a luxury ship, and its cabins and suites are designed, above all else, for comfort.

World Navigator is just the first of five sister vessels that Atlas will roll out in quick succession over the next three years as it grows rapidly -- all with a similar array of cabins and suites. The next two ships in the series, World Traveller and World Seeker, should arrive in 2022 and 2023, respectively.

World Traveller (and, yes, that's traveller spelled the British way) should open for bookings soon.

For more cruise news, reviews and tips, sign up for TPG's new cruise newsletter .

An Atlas Ocean Voyages cabin primer

World Navigator and its coming sister vessels have been designed for intimacy with just 98 cabins a piece. That's far fewer cabins than you'll find on most luxury ships -- luxury line Seabourn , for instance, operates vessels that have 226 to 302 cabins. But it's typical for expedition ships.

The 98 cabins on the vessels can be broken down into three broad categories: oceanview cabins, balcony cabins and suites. But the vast majority of the cabins (72 out of 98) are balcony cabins.

There are no windowless "inside" cabins, as you'll sometimes find on cruise vessels.

Design-wise, as noted above, all of the cabins and suites evoke the 1940s with such flourishes as glossy mahogany walls and chrome accents, though the rooms are thoroughly modern. Accents in shades of brown, black and rich greens as well as silvery blues (including green velvet throw pillows and sleek, built-in side shelves covered in stitched tan leather) create a rich and luxuriant aesthetic.

Bathrooms in all categories of World Navigator cabins are lined with marble and feature upscale L'Occitane toiletries.

Oceanview cabins on Atlas Ocean Voyages ships

These are the cabins on World Navigator you book when you're trying to keep your costs down. Significantly smaller than the balcony cabins and suites on World Navigator, they also are the least expensive rooms on the ship by far. But you'll only find a few of them.

Officially, there are 10 oceanview cabins (dubbed Adventure cabins) on World Navigator. But all 10 won't always be available for booking. Atlas plans to use some or all of them on many itineraries to house the ship's expedition guides and entertainers.

Additionally, in early 2022, the line plans to convert six of these cabins from rooms designed for two people into "solo suites" designed for just one traveler. This is notable, as solo suites are relatively rare on luxury expedition ships.

At the same time, Atlas will be taking the rest of the oceanview cabins on World Navigator out of its booking pool, leaving it as an all-balcony-and-suite vessel.

But that's all happening next year. For now, oceanview cabins on the ship still are available.

With these oceanview cabins, you get a window looking out to the sea but not an attached balcony where you can sit outside and enjoy the fresh air. That's the definition of an oceanview cabin.

All 10 of the oceanview cabins currently available for booking are located on the lowest passenger-accessible deck of the ship, which is Deck 3.

Balcony cabins on Atlas Ocean Voyages ships

Balcony cabins are what everyone wants these days, and Atlas has loaded up World Navigator with lots of them. This is normal for luxury ships. On many recently built luxury ships, every single cabin is not only a balcony cabin but also a suite. That said, all-suite vessels are not the norm in expedition cruising, even at the luxury level.

The balcony cabins on World Navigator come in two very distinct forms. There are traditional balcony cabins, where there's an interior part to the room and a separate outdoor balcony. But there also are what some lines are calling "infinite veranda" balcony cabins -- cabins where the balcony space is incorporated into the interior part of the room and only becomes a "balcony" with the opening of the top half of a window wall facing the sea.

The latter are the sort of balcony cabins found on the newest Celebrity Cruises ships and vessels operated by several river cruise lines including Avalon Waterways and Crystal Cruises.

As noted above, 72 of World Navigator's 98 rooms are balcony cabins. Of those, 47 are traditional balcony cabins that further break down into two categories:

• Veranda cabins (of which there are 46). These are traditional balcony cabins measuring 270 square feet.
• Veranda Deluxe cabins (of which there is just one). This is a traditional balcony cabin measuring 300 square feet.

There are 25 of the infinite veranda-type balcony cabins, also broken down into two categories:

• Horizon cabins (of which there are 23). These are window wall-type balcony cabins measuring 270 square feet.
• Horizon Deluxe cabins (of which there are two). These are window wall-type balcony cabins measuring 300 square feet.

The Veranda Deluxe and Horizon Deluxe cabins are located adjacent to the two spaces that house World Navigator's two lifeboats and have unusual layouts with small sitting rooms that are carved out of space directly behind the lifeboats.

In the case of the single Veranda Deluxe cabin, this sitting area features two portholes overlooking the back of a lifeboat — a feature that gives the room an unusual, ocean liner-of-old flair.

Suites on Atlas Ocean Voyages ships

These are the cabins you book when you're ready for a splurge.

There are 10 suites on World Navigator in all, broken down into three categories:

• Navigator Suites (of which there are four). Measuring 465 square feet, these are the biggest accommodations on the ship. Located on the starboard side of the ship, on Decks 5 and 6, they have bedrooms and separate living rooms with a wide balcony. They are the only accommodations on the ship with bathtubs.
• Discovery Suites (of which there are two). Measuring 445 square feet, these are very similar to Navigator Suites and also feature bedrooms and separate living rooms with wide balconies. The big difference with these cabins as compared to Navigator Suites is that they lack an entryway and they have slightly smaller bathrooms. On the flip side, they have slightly bigger bedrooms and living rooms.
• Journey Suites (of which there are four). These are slightly smaller suites that measure 382 square feet. All four of these suites are located on the port side of the ship, on Decks 5 and 6.

As noted above, Atlas also plans to convert six oceanview Adventure rooms into "solo suites" in 2022. They'll measure the same 183 square feet as they do now but with all of the space devoted to a single person instead of two.

As is typical for expedition ships, there are no truly giant suites on World Navigator of the sort found on some traditional luxury ships such as Regent Seven Seas Cruises' Seven Seas Splendor (where a single suite measures more than 4,000 square feet ). Giant suites like that typically only are found on vessels much larger than World Navigator.

Bottom line

World Navigator and its coming sister ships have a relatively wide range of cabin choices including several categories of suites. As is typical for expedition ships, there are relatively few cabins on the vessels in all -- fewer than 100. As a result, the vessels overall have an intimate feel.

With a change in cabin categories coming in 2022, World Navigator also will become an all-balcony ship -- something that's relatively rare in the world of expedition cruising.

Planning a cruise? Start with these stories:

• The 5 most desirable cabin locations on any cruise ship
• The 8 worst cabin locations on any cruise ship
• A quick guide to the most popular cruise lines
• 21 tips and tricks that will make your cruise go smoothly
• 15 ways cruisers waste money
• 12 best cruises for people who never want to grow up
• What to pack for your first cruise

Atlas Ocean Voyages

By jimdee3636 , October 4, 2020 in Atlas Ocean Voyages

Recommended Posts

I recently received an e-mail from Atlas Ocean Voyages (www.atlasoceanvoyages.com), which I had never heard of before. It purports to be a "leader in small ship cruising." Has anyone sailed with them, or even just booked a cruise with them for 2021 or 2022. If so, any impressions you can share---good or bad? 

Link to comment

Share on other sites.

Host Jazzbeau

This is a brand new cruise line.  Their first ship isn't built yet – was scheduled for 2021, who knows if Covid-affect on shipyards has delayed it.  They sound interesting, but this market niche was exploding and I wonder if the demand was ever there [and seriously doubt that it is now]:  Atlas (5 ships), MSC Luxury Class (4 ships), Ritz Carlton (3 ships), Scenic Eclipse class (2 ships) and polar class (5 ships) – how many luxury yachts can the market take?

13 hours ago, Host Jazzbeau said: This is a brand new cruise line.  Their first ship isn't built yet – was scheduled for 2021, who knows if Covid-affect on shipyards has delayed it.  They sound interesting, but this market niche was exploding and I wonder if the demand was ever there [and seriously doubt that it is now]:  Atlas (5 ships), MSC Luxury Class (4 ships), Ritz Carlton (3 ships), Scenic Eclipse class (2 ships) and polar class (5 ships) – how many luxury yachts can the market take?

Thanks! I like ships in the 300-600 passenger range (Silversea, Seabourn, etc.), but have never done a "luxury yacht" cruise. I'm intrigued by Atlas but I think I'll wait until I see if they really go forward in 2021.

• 3 weeks later...

I just received an email from them to pre-order their brochure for their upcoming 2021-2022 season. 

Congrats to Atlas – they now have their own forum on Cruise Critic!

On 10/3/2020 at 9:13 PM, Host Jazzbeau said: This is a brand new cruise line.  Their first ship isn't built yet – was scheduled for 2021, who knows if Covid-affect on shipyards has delayed it.  They sound interesting, but this market niche was exploding and I wonder if the demand was ever there [and seriously doubt that it is now]:  Atlas (5 ships), MSC Luxury Class (4 ships), Ritz Carlton (3 ships), Scenic Eclipse class (2 ships) and polar class (5 ships) – how many luxury yachts can the market take?

Plus Ponant (11 ships) which is right in the middle of this market niche.

• Administrators

Thanks @Host Jazzbeau for moving this topic here!

Also, you can read a few news stories that bubbled up in a search from our Cruise Critic news team: https://boards.cruisecritic.com/search/?&q=Atlas Ocean Voyages&search_and_or=and&search_in=titles&sortby=relevancy

They are also including medical evacuation and return home insurance that covers Covid. I must admit I find their model really appealing. 

Phillygirl3

Just booked 2021 cruise to Egypt/Israel with a pre-cruise visit to Jordan.  I'm keeping my fingers crossed as I have already had two cruises cancelled in 2020!

• 2 weeks later...

We are so excited to see that you are excited about our brand (and that some of you have already booked)! We cannot wait to welcome you on board. 

World Navigator is on schedule for her inaugural sailing July 17 from Valletta, Malta. We’ll be announcing World Traveller’s inaugural season sailings soon as well as other exciting updates. Stay tuned! 

Good to have you here on Cruise Critic with an official account!

On 11/14/2020 at 10:42 AM, Atlas Ocean Voyages said: We are so excited to see that you are excited about our brand (and that some of you have already booked)! We cannot wait to welcome you on board.    World Navigator is on schedule for her inaugural sailing July 17 from Valletta, Malta. We’ll be announcing World Traveller’s inaugural season sailings soon as well as other exciting updates. Stay tuned! 

Very excited! I keep checking the website every day for the schedule of sailings 🙂

CaliKlines1

Really looking forward to being on board with Atlas Oceans Voyages. We are booked on the Navigator for the Heart of the Black Sea next August. It seems like AOV has done their research, and their itineraries and amenities checked all of our boxes. Every base was covered from airfare to gratuities to state room credit to excursions! Now I have to hope that their execution is as good as their marketing.

Is World Traveller the next Atlas ship to set sail? When is the anticipated inaugural season for the World Traveller? 2022? Thanks!

philly girl 3

We are looking at this cruise as we just received some info on it.  We are booked on Regent Voyager in May for the Holy Lands tour but our TA feels  pretty certain it will not be a go. When I saw that this was the Holy Lands and Egypt it looked great.  Plus by August hopefully things will somewhat normal again. We received a brochure from A TA  in Austin and it is associated with a radio host.  Just wondering where you heard about the cruise.  I have a lot of questions and we really want to go in a couple of days early to see some sites not covered in the excursions.  

Kandy from Texas

Hi everyone, we took a leap of faith and booked the Atlas World Navigator December 10, 2021 to Antarctica. We really liked the idea of a chartered flight, less hassle and worry. 

1 hour ago, SolBoyd said: Hi everyone, we took a leap of faith and booked the Atlas World Navigator December 10, 2021 to Antarctica. We really liked the idea of a chartered flight, less hassle and worry. 

We booked the January 2022 Antarctica one as well on a leap of faith.  What they are pitching is exactly what we are looking for so hoping for the best.

Barbara Ramsay

We are booked on the World Navigator  in September ... Greece to Italy 7 days.  Fingers crossed that the size of the ships truly allows them to manage the quality and value equation.  The current promotions for 2021 are very attractive.   

SailingSteve77

We just heard about Atlas Ocean Voyages from our TA a couple of days ago and are getting pricing now.  We're looking at the Rome - Lisbon and Lisbon - Bridgetown back to back next September/October.  Antartica is also on our bucket list.  We're keeping our fingers crossed that cruising will get going again soon.

Steve & Cindy

I too have been looking at this new cruise line.  Very interested. So far their customer service has been very good as far as answering some questions I had.

We love small luxury ships.

Silversea has been our favorite. Our very first cruise was on the Silver Cloud 10 years ago. We were treated as if we were the most special people in the world.

We then booked the Scenic Eclipse, got cancelled as ship wasn't ready and the worst customer service ever. They pretty much ignored all the posts here on Cruise Critics.

We did eventually get our money back and they paid our TA her fee.

Luckily we went back to Silversea and did a fantastic NZ Australian Cruise on the Muse. As usual didn't disappoint.  That was just before Royal Caribbean bought them out. 

We have another SS Silver Muse booked for August 2021 and pray it won't be cancelled.

Atlas Ocean Voyages struck me as perfect, but we will wait for the ultimate authority to report their experiences. Our Cruise Critics.

We love small ships with cruises around 20 days duration.

First or Business included would be excellent. We are tall mid 70's seniors. Comfort is a priority.

I have no idea on pricing, but the fact that Atlas advertised private charters available really, really appealed to me.

My husband's priority is a dedicated  lounge for fine spirits and cigars. (I am sure I just offended 90% of you but he deserves whatever pleasure he wants at thus time of life) Not easy to find on small ships these days. We have made some very long lasting and close friendships in the  Connoisseurs Lounge on our cruises.

That's more than enough of a comment from me.

There is a market for small ships that can get into smaller ports and which will not overwhelm an interesting port or destination when its passengers go ashore, either on tours or on their own.

We have hated big cruise ships since our first experiences with Cunard on the QEII and the Queen Victoria.

We cruised on Seabourne exclusively until they sold off their 200 pax ships.  We crossed the Atlantic with them, and cruised the Mediterranean and Baltic and each every cruise was special, almost magical.

We have cruised the larger Seabourne, Silversea and Regent ships several times and they were all fine. But none compared to the Spirit or Pride in terms of intimacy, ambiance and overall experience. Only Silversea in the Galapagos came close.

I look forward to more information on the experiences of others with this line. 

I am sure we are not alone in thinking it may be a way to get back to the kind of cruising we came to love..

We pulled the trigger and booked our Rome - Lisbon - Bridgetown back to back cruises next September/October and we're looking forward to meeting everyone on board.

Happy New Year and yes, 2021 will be a better year for all.

On 12/3/2020 at 6:08 PM, SolBoyd said: Hi everyone, we took a leap of faith and booked the Atlas World Navigator December 10, 2021 to Antarctica. We really liked the idea of a chartered flight, less hassle and worry. 

We cannot wait to have you on board with us! 

On 12/7/2020 at 2:45 PM, Barbara Ramsay said: We are booked on the World Navigator  in September ... Greece to Italy 7 days.  Fingers crossed that the size of the ships truly allows them to manage the quality and value equation.  The current promotions for 2021 are very attractive.   

Thank you for booking, Barbara! We know you are going to love your journey with us! 

On 12/3/2020 at 7:51 PM, garciamia said: We booked the January 2022 Antarctica one as well on a leap of faith.  What they are pitching is exactly what we are looking for so hoping for the best.

You will not be disappointed! We cannot wait to have you on board! 

Please sign in to comment

You will be able to leave a comment after signing in

• Welcome to Cruise Critic
• Hurricane Zone 2024
• Cruise Insurance Q&A w/ Steve Dasseos of Tripinsurancestore.com June 2024
• New Cruisers
• Cruise Lines “A – O”
• Cruise Lines “P – Z”
• River Cruising
• Cruise Critic News & Features
• Digital Photography & Cruise Technology
• Special Interest Cruising
• Cruise Discussion Topics
• UK Cruising
• Australia & New Zealand Cruisers
• Canadian Cruisers
• North American Homeports
• Ports of Call
• Cruise Conversations

Announcements

• New to Cruise Critic? Join our Community!

Write Your Own Amazing Review !

Click this gorgeous photo by member SUPERstar777 to share your review!

Features & News

LauraS · Started 7 hours ago

LauraS · Started Thursday at 09:33 PM

LauraS · Started Thursday at 04:47 PM

LauraS · Started Thursday at 02:09 PM

LauraS · Started Wednesday at 11:07 AM

• Existing user? Sign in OR Create an Account
• Find Your Roll Call
• Meet & Mingle
• Community Help Center
• All Activity
• Member Photo Albums
• Meet & Mingle Photos
• Favorite Cruise Memories
• Cruise Food Photos
• Cruise Ship Photos
• Ports of Call Photos
• Towel Animal Photos
• Amazing, Funny & Totally Awesome Cruise Photos
• Write a Review
• Live Cruise Reports
• Member Cruise Reviews
• Create New...

• Skip to primary navigation
• Skip to main content
• Skip to primary sidebar

Travel Codex

Your Resource for Better Travel

Thanksgiving Antarctica Cruise: Atlas Ocean Voyages $7,499!

Plus those who book via me and Scott and Thomas Travel will enjoy added benefits. These include a $200 onboard credit per guest and a welcome bottle of champagne. Lower prices, plus additional onboard credits are just one of many reasons why you should still utilize a travel adviso r.

Atlas Ocean Voyage Antarctica Cruise Deal

Atlas is currently offering their own sale which is a buy one get one free offer. Yet even then prices still start at over $10,000 per person. My private sale: $7,499 per person and solo rooms for $11,249. 

Travel Dates: Nov 21 – Dec 5, 2024. 

This trip includes a 1 night stay in Buenos Aires on Nov 21, 2024. Round trip charter flight between Buenos Aires and Ushuaia included in the cost of the trip. Fly to Ushuaia on Nov 22 and return to Buenos Aires on December 5. 

Ship : World Navigator – 198 passenger super yacht

Trip details: Review Atlas website and trip details here

Thanksgiving with Penguins As you cross the Antarctic Circle at the 66th southern parallel, you enter what feels like another world, creating a connection with your inner explorer spirit. It’s a space rarely navigated, with narrower channels that bring you closer to ice floes, snow-capped mountain peaks and wondrous icebergs, making for a picture-perfect scene you’ll want to capture on your camera. On this expedition, aside from joining the Order of the Red Nose, you’ll also spend five days exploring the Antarctic Peninsula for a deep dive into the breathtaking landscapes of the Seventh Continent. An overwhelming sense of gratitude will wash over you as you spend Thanksgiving among extraordinary wildlife, such as chinstrap and Adélie penguins as they build their nests. Room Type Atlas’s Discount Price (Double occupancy) My Price (Double occupancy) Solo Price 3rd person price Taxes (p.p) Navigator Suite $17,149 $15,439 $30,878 $4,499 $650 Discovery Suite $16,249 $14,499 $28,998 N/A $650 Journey Suite $15,999 $13,499 $26,998 $4,499 $650 Horizon Deluxe Stateroom $13,999 $11,499 $17,249 $4,499 $650 Horizon Stateroom $1,249 $9,499 $14,249 N/A $650 Horizon Stateroom $12,249 $8,999 $13,499 N/A $650 Veranda Stateroom $11,999 $8,499 $12,749 N/A $650 Veranda Stateroom $11,999 $7,999 $11,999 N/A $650 Adventure Oceanview Stateroom $10,749 $7,499 $11,249 N/A $650

Deposit is just $1,000 per person and final payment is due 120 days before departure. The Cruise Cancel Fee is also pretty awesome. Cancel any time for just $250 per guest, if it’s after final payment, costs do increase.

• 120 to 91 days prior to Event 25% cancellation fee
• 90 to 76 days prior to Event 50% cancellation fee
• 75 to 46 days prior to Event 75% cancellation fee
• 45 days prior to Event 100% cancellation fee

What to Expect on an Atlas Cruise

From the moment guests step aboard an Atlas Ocean Voyages ship, they are enveloped in an atmosphere of elegance and refinement. Thoughtfully designed accommodations offer the perfect blend of comfort and sophistication, with every detail carefully curated to ensure a restful and indulgent retreat after a day of exploration. Everything is included from open bar to staff tips. There’s no hidden fees and you can go on vacation knowing everything is already paid for. 

What truly sets Atlas Ocean Voyages apart is its unwavering commitment to exploration. With a fleet of small, expedition-style ships, guests have the opportunity to venture where larger vessels cannot, discovering hidden gems and remote destinations off the beaten path. With less than 200 people you will be able to do two landings or more per day! Due to requirement in the area, and regulatory requirement, larger ships with more than 200 people are only allowed to do 1. Norwegian Cruise Line Antarctica trips for example have over 500 passengers are not allowed to land at all. These are just scenic cruises. If you want to go to Antarctica, you should really make the most of your Antarctica Expedition!

Led by a team of seasoned expedition leaders, naturalists, and historians, every excursion with Atlas Ocean Voyages is a chance to deepen one’s understanding of the world and its diverse cultures. Learn while exploring. The best type of vacation!

Whether kayaking through crystal-clear fjords, hiking rugged mountains, or encountering penguins and whales in their natural habitat, watching elephant seals roll around on ice, each expedition is an invitation to connect with the world in a profound and meaningful way.

What is included in an Atlas Antarctica Cruise

When you go to Antarctica, paying more is the last thing you want to think about. Therefore it’s great to know that the upfront price includes everything with Atlas. Get yourself to Buenos Aires and before you know it you’ll be sailing across the drake passage. 

• FREE cultural immersion
• FREE private charter jet service from Buenos Aires
• FREE enrichment lectures and destination briefings
• FREE shore landings led by expert field guides
• FREE escorted sightseeing safaris via Zodiac cruising
• FREE polar plunge
• FREE Atlas Ocean Voyages winter parka and vest
• FREE use of knee boots for landings
• FREE private group transfers between airport and yacht
• FREE 1-night pre-cruise hotel stay on all Antarctica expeditions
• FREE dining venues with ever-changing menus
• FREE unlimited beverages, including fine wines, spirits and craft beers
• FREE open bars and lounges, including 24-hour bar service with specialty canapés
• FREE stocked in-room minibar
• FREE specialty coffees, teas and fresh-pressed juices
• FREE afternoon and high tea
• FREE champagne and gourmet canapés during meet and greet
• FREE 24-hour room service, including spirits, wine and beer
• FREE L’OCCITANE bath amenities
• FREE pre-paid gratuities
• FREE use of walking sticks and binoculars
• FREE reusable water bottle
• FREE butler service and expanded room service menu in suites

Honestly, when you travel on Atlas, everything is included.

What’s Not Included

There are VERY few things you will need to pay for on your Antarctic expedition, but there are a few things that do cost extra. Such as the Spa. If you want a massage you will pay for this. 

Check out Atlas Ocean Voyage’s Antarctica Brochure for more details. Extra excursions such as Kayaking for $200 or overnight camping for $750 cost extra. After spending the free allotment, WiFi costs extra.

Bottom Line

If you are looking for the best deal ever to Antarctica, and want to spend your Thanksgiving holiday in the polar region with penguins, expert scientist and world renown lectures from the Global Penguin Society, this deal is for you. Save 30% when you travel on the November 22, 2024 sailing and enjoy a $200 onboard credit per guest!

It’s rare to nearly impossible to go to white continent on an all inclusive luxury trip for this price point and it’s even better to know the pricing is all-inclusive and the ship will cross the Antarctic circle. Something most ships do not do.

This deal is an exclusive offer for Travel Codex Reader and guests of Scott and Thomas travel. If you’re interested, contact me immediately to book your Thanksgiving with Penguin expedition cruise to Antarctica.

Do not miss your chance to see my favorite place on earth! I’ve went twice in 2023 , and cannot wait to return!

Read This Next

About Rocky Horan

Rocky started blogging on his own website When Doublewides Fly to share information about flying around the world on a dime. By maximizing miles and points, cheap deals, sales, backpacking, and couchsurfing Rocky has traveled to 75 countries and still counting.

5 Afar-Curated Excursions to Enjoy on Atlas Ocean Voyages’ Expeditions

If you’re looking for exclusive cultural experiences like bagpipe lessons in scotland, consider atlas ocean voyages..

• Copy Link copied

A lighthouse in West Cork, Ireland

Courtesy of Atlas Ocean Voyages

Imagine travel that effortlessly connects you more deeply with local experts in music, history, and gastronomy. That kind of travel is at the heart of Afar Recommends, a collection of shore excursions on Atlas Ocean Voyages ’ 2024 Cultural Expeditions . In partnership with Afar, Atlas Ocean Voyages introduced Afar Recommends earlier this year. These excursions—think learning to play bagpipe in Scotland, attending a traditional Patagonian barbecue in Argentina, and visiting a historic turf house in Iceland—all feature rich experiences such as knowledgeable guides, hands-on workshops, and distinctive local tastings.

Exclusive cultural experiences are a definitive element of Atlas Ocean Voyages. The operator is redefining luxury adventure cruising, delivering unforgettable experiences in sought-after and remote destinations. With a blend of intimacy, luxury, and genuine hospitality, each expedition becomes a once-in-a-lifetime adventure. No wonder it’s among the best independent cruise brands .

Handpicked by Afar, Afar Recommends is part of Atlas Ocean Voyages’ Cultural Expeditions, designed to enrich travelers with immersive experiences that spark discovery. The selected excursions, rooted in Atlas Ocean Voyages’ and Afar’s shared belief in travel’s transformative nature, empower travelers to pursue their passions and enjoy more meaningful experiences. It’s about the life-changing trips that happen when you connect with local culture, follow your curiosity, and pursue what you love. Keep reading for some highlights of what you can expect with Afar Recommends.

Observe penguins in their natural habitat

Southern Argentina is known for its incredible wildlife, and the coastal city of Puerto Madryn is an ideal starting point for animal enthusiasts. After arriving there on the 10-night Montevideo to Ushuaia itinerary departing on November 3, 2024 , you can travel just 11 miles away to the renowned Península Valdes, hailed as one of South America’s best wildlife sanctuaries. Here, you’ll have the opportunity to observe a variety of wildlife—including penguins, sea lions, and elephant seals—in their natural habitats

Your adventure begins at the Visitors’ Center, offering a glimpse of the local wildlife and plants. It’s an opportunity to learn about the unique biodiversity of the region and understand the importance of conservation efforts. Then, you’ll head to Estancia San Lorenzo on the northeast edge of Península Valdes, home to a famous penguin colony. Prepare to be amazed by the sight of more than 2,000 Magellan penguins flocking together alongside other marine birds and the diverse flora and fauna of the area.

After this once-in-a-lifetime experience, you’ll enjoy a traditional Patagonian barbecue and sample the distinctive flavors of the region, like meat slow cooked over a wood fire. Finally, from a cliffside viewpoint, you’ll have the chance to view more amazing wildlife—thriving elephant seal and sea lion colonies lounging in their pristine natural surroundings.

Experience Norwegian hospitality, complete with coffee and pastries

You’ll visit Stavanger, a Norwegian city celebrated for its stunning fjords , mountains, and coastal views, on the 11-night Iceland and Norway itineraries departing July 12, 2024 and August 10, 2024 . Artisan shops, cafés, and beautiful whitewashed houses adorned with seasonal flowers, all lining cobblestone streets, fill the charming old town, a UNESCO World Heritage site since 1975.

Your adventure continues with a visit to a local family’s home where you’ll get a rare peek into Norwegian traditions and daily life while enjoying coffee, pastries, and conversation. Then, take a leisurely stroll through Stavanger’s Old Town, soaking in the atmosphere of times past. One of the highlights of your trip will be the panoramic views from Valbergtärnet, a former watchtower that now offers panoramic vistas of this historic maritime city.

In Scotland, join a whisky-tasting and bagpipe lesson hosted by a distinguished piper

A bagpipe player

Courtesy of Brad Starkey/Unsplash

There’s no better way to start a journey through Scottish culture than by sampling fine whisky. On the 8-night Reykjavik to Amsterdam voyage departing September 12, 2024, you can do that and more. Following an immersive tasting of four drams, guided by the expertise of a Society Whisky Ambassador in the port of Leith near Edinburgh , you’ll be primed and ready to learn more about the bagpipe, a musical instrument that stands as a potent symbol of Scotland, symbolizing the Scottish people’s strength, resilience, and unity. Plus, you’ll learn about it from one of the best—Louise Marshall, a piper among Scotland’s foremost who’s performed for dignitaries such as Pope Benedict XVI and Queen Elizabeth II.

She’ll provide an insider’s view of Scotland’s musical heritage as you master bagpipe basics while also letting you try on a range of authentic tartans and attire, from glengarries to kilts. At the end of the session, you’ll earn a bagpipe certificate and receive a small Scottish gift to cherish.

Cook with a local family at an authentic turf house in Iceland

Turf houses in Iceland

Iceland’s grass-roofed turf houses are integral to the country’s identity and history. For upwards of a millennium, these structures dotted nearly every farm on the island, offering warmth in the harsh climate. Vikings depended on them, congregating in the central room to share stories by the fire and fend off the cold. You can learn about this fascinating history on the 11-night Iceland and Norway itineraries departing July 12, 2024 , and August 10, 2024 . During the scenic drive from the port of call Ísafjörður , a picturesque fishing town, to Litlibaer , you’ll pass by several awe-inspiring fjords before arriving at an authentic turf house dating to 1895.

You’ll have the chance to churn butter in Iceland with Afar Recommends.

Upon arrival, a local family, the stewards of this historic dwelling, will welcome you as you gaze upon the sweeping views of Skötufjörður. You’ll hear stories passed down through generations while participating in a hands-on culinary experience—churning fresh cream into butter to sample with traditional Icelandic flatbread. You’ll also enjoy cake, coffee, and other local delicacies.

On the way back to Ísafjörður, there’ll be a stop to observe seals in the surf at the Hvítanes Viewing Platform and explore remnants of old fishermen’s huts. The tour concludes at Kambsnes Viewpoint, offering a panoramic view of Ísafjarðardjúp, Iceland’s longest fjord.

Immerse yourself in history and mingle with locals at a traditional pub in Ireland

Behind the bar at an Irish pub

Delve deep into a pivotal part of Ireland’s history, the Great Famine, and explore its profound impact on the country’s culture and identity that continues to resonate through literature, art, music, and collective memory. You’ll set off from the pier in Bantry, a stop on the 9-night Dublin to London itinerary departing September 23, 2024, to Skibbereen in West Cork . During this tragic period in the mid-19th century, this village on the Ilen River became symbolic of the suffering endured by the Irish population, as it was one of the worst affected areas.

Today, Skibbereen is a testament to resilience following tragedy, serving as a memorial to those dark times. Its efforts to honor the memory of the famine victims persist through monuments, museums, and cultural initiatives. At the Skibbereen Heritage Centre, housed within the reclaimed Old Gasworks Building, you’ll have a chance to meet and interact with a local historian who will go in-depth about how the Great Famine reshaped Ireland and its people.

After visiting Lough Hyne, Ireland’s first Marine Nature Reserve, continue to the colorful coastal village of Ballydehob for a stop at Levi’s Pub, where, for more than 100 years, one family has upheld Irish hospitality at the local institution. See for yourself why the pub continues to hold a central place in Irish social life as a communal gathering spot while listening to traditional music—a centuries-old art form and oral tradition—performed live.

Event Details

ASTA events are designed to meet the needs of the travel agency community. You’ll find local chapter events as well as national and international meetings. Many members say that the chance to connect socially with peers and the people they do business with is one of the most valuable parts of all ASTA meetings.

Greater Sacramento Chapter: Sacramento ASTA and Atlas Ocean Voyages

• Location: Sacramento, CA
• Address: 3698 N Freeway Blvd.
• Contact: Dianna Graves
• Email: [email protected]
• Phone: 707-404-3464

Join us for our June chapter meeting sponsored by Atlas Ocean Voyages.

Logan's Roadhouse 3698 N Freeway Blvd. Sacramento CA

RETURN TO THE FULL EVENTS LISTING

• Entertainment
• Celebrities
• Ticket Sales

Recommended

Johnny Oleksinski

‘titanic’ musical review: tragic tale is sweeping and thrilling — even without jack and rose.

• View Author Archive
• Get author RSS feed

Thanks for contacting us. We've received your submission.

The RMS Titanic’s doomed 1912 voyage did not make a strong argument for hugeness.

Quite the contrary.

Two hours and 40 minutes, with one intermission. At New York City Center, 131 W. 55th Street, through June 23.

But the sweeping concert revival of Maury Yeston’s musical “Titanic” at New York City Center sure does. With a score as lush and transportive as this one, bigger is definitely better.

Don’t get me wrong. About a decade ago, I saw a splendid, reduced version of the show at Chicago’s Theater Wit that unearthed the humanity and focus in Peter Stone’s sprawling book that features some 40 distinct characters.

However, the massive, 30-person orchestra of the Encores! series, which presents old Broadway shows in their full auditory glory, is the real heart of the ocean.

That forceful wall of sound created by music director Rob Berman and his terrific musicians, who are situated high up on a platform above the stage, justifies why the ill-fated passengers aboard the Titanic are crooning tunes at all.

With music alone (Encores! ain’t known for sets), “Titanic” conjures the majesty of “the largest moving object in the world” as it hurdles dangerously toward New York, as well as the unspeakable tragedy of man’s folly leading to the deaths of 1,500 people. 

Amusingly, Yeston’s Best Musical Tony Award winner debuted on Broadway a few months before James Cameron’s epic romance movie became a worldwide phenomenon, leading to decades of confusion.

To be clear, there’s no Jack and Rose here, or even romantic leads really. You can hear “My Heart Will Go On” nightly at the hysterical “Titanique” downtown at the Daryl Roth Theater.

Yeston’s show is far less bombastic than the Oscar-winning disaster film. It’s an often-subtle patchwork quilt of travelers’ stories from the boat, with a particular emphasis on class disparities.

Yes, there is a pair of young lovers, Kate McGowan (Samantha Williams) and Jim Farrell (rising star Andrew Durand), but also a more seasoned husband and wife, Isidor and Ida Strauss (Chip Zien and Judy Kuhn, a sublime combo). 

There’s also the Titanic staff. Captain Smith (Chuck Cooper) regally commands the bridge and recklessly obeys orders to increase speed, while engine room worker Barrett (Ramin Karimloo) sweats down in the bowels of the ship knowing full-well that flooring it as a bad idea.

Big-voiced Karimloo sings my favorite song in the show, called “The Proposal/The Night Was Alive,” a soaring duet with Alex Joseph Grayson’s Harold Bride, the Titanic’s wireless telegraph operator, about longing at sea.

In a cast full of vets, Grayson’s geeky, sweetly sung performance is a standout.

As is Bonnie Milligan being her usual very funny self as social climber Alice Beane, whose schmoozing and gossiping is put up with by her more reserved husband Edgar (Drew Gehling).

The “Kimberly Akimbo” actress’ sense of humor, and the bounciness of the first act’s songs, helps the audience forget — as best we can anyway — the sad inevitability of the ending.

This “Titanic” doesn’t wring out tears, though, like Jack clinging to that quite sizable door in Cameron’s movie. Rather it’s a touching, smart tribute to the lives lost — less about the horrible sinking than the flesh-and-blood people.

And now for the elephant — or, well, the ship — in the room: Should this “Titanic” have a future life like Encores’ “Into the Woods” and “Parade” did? Seemingly every production in this series creates Broadway buzz now, whether it’s deserved or not.  

But “Titanic,” directed by Anne Kauffman, is not the sort of staging that would make sense in a sit-down a few blocks away. This concert is constructed, as it should be, to grandly showcase the blissful score. I’d love to see “Titanic” back on Broadway. But this one should live out the rest of its days on 55th Street.

This is perhaps odd to say of a composer who has two Best Musical Tony Awards (“Nine” and “Titanic”) and another nomination (“Grand Hotel”), but Yeston doesn’t get his due on Broadway.

Whereas so many composers repeat themselves ad nauseam, Yeston crafts diverse, subverting scores that whisk us to 1960s Venice, an opulent 1920s Berlin escape and an ocean liner that was briefly home to all walks of life. 

The man is deserving of more encores — and not just from Encores!

Share this article:

Advertisement

• Share full article

5 Favorite Places

Diplo’s Jamaica

The Grammy-winning D.J. and music producer recommends spots in a city he loves on Jamaica’s northeast coast. A dance party makes the cut.

Supported by

By Celeste Moure

• Published June 12, 2024 Updated June 13, 2024

Diplo, born Thomas Wesley Pentz, fell in love with Jamaica, particularly its Portland parish on the northeast coast, nearly 20 years ago. “I was D.J.ing on a cruise ship, got off in Ocho Rios, and drove through Port Antonio to get to Kingston,” said the multiple-Grammy nominee and winner who has collaborated with Dua Lipa, Sturgill Simpson, Snoop Dogg, Shakira, Bad Bunny and countless other musicians. “Portland is sort of like Costa Rica, all jungly and waterfalls. And Port Antonio is this quaint little town where I’d go on a sort of retreat, “Mr. Pentz added. About eight years ago he bought some farmland and built a house there.

Mr. Pentz thinks Port Antonio is a calmer option than Ocho Rios or other popular tourist spots on Jamaica for people who enjoy nature, hiking, waterfalls and, of course, beaches. It’s also for those who seek a more authentic experience. “It’s the sort of city where you’re mixing with the locals, and I think that’s what special about it,” he said.

Born in Mississippi and raised in Florida, Mr. Pentz has traveled extensively and D.J.ed on every continent, including Antarctica. A livestream of his D.J. set there, which took place on the helipad of Atlas Ocean Voyages’ World Voyager, was posted on YouTube in January.

Recently, Mr. Pentz has become a runner. He ran the Los Angeles marathon and competed in the Malibu Triathlon, but found that something was missing from the experience: a post-run celebration. So, he launched Diplo’s Run Club , a series of 5K runs — the inaugural events take place this fall in Seattle and San Francisco — culminating in afterparties, with D.J. sets from Diplo and friends, at the finish line. When he’s not running or traveling for work, he spends time at his home in Jamaica.

Here are five of his favorite places in and around Port Antonio.

1. Geejam Hotel

When Mr. Pentz first started coming to Port Antonio, he would often hang out and work on music at Geejam , a boutique hotel set on six acres of tropical rainforest at the edge of the Caribbean. “It was built as a sort of studio for Kingston artists and singers,” he said, and it continues to attract artists and Hollywood types, as well as Jamaicans from other parishes who check in for staycations. “You’ll sometimes see someone like Shawn Mendes or other artists who might be recording in the studio,” he said. The hotel, which has access to Frenchman’s Cove, a white sand beach, has large villas, cozy cabins tucked into the jungle and a main building with a dozen rooms. “It feels world class but has a backpacker vibe at the same time. There’s even a mushroom dispensary in the lobby,” he added, pointing out that psychedelics are not illegal on the island.

2. Rafting on the Rio Grande

On Jamaica’s longest river, the Rio Grande, bamboo rafts were once used to transport bananas from the interior of Portland to the coast for export. These days, locals and tourists alike book a rafting adventure for a leisurely way to soak in the beauty of the island’s flora and fauna. “The water’s not very deep, maybe waist high, and you can get out anywhere you want and swim a little,” said Mr. Pentz. “What I love about it is that halfway through the ride you stop at this beach and there’s an amazing restaurant, Belinda’s, where you can get all these local dishes and a Red Stripe for lunch, and just hang out. Then you get back on the raft and keep going.”

3. Vinyl Sundays at Natural Mystic Bar & Lounge

Natural Mystic Bar & Lounge is in a neighborhood of Port Antonio called Drapers. “One night a week this Italian guy and his wife and friends play records,” said Mr. Pentz, referring to the organizer Enrico Vicari. “They bring out their old 45s and their big speakers and it’s like a dance off, a big party in the street.” Mr. Pentz often stops by to D.J. when he’s in town. “A lot of expats live in Portland and on Sundays there’s a nice mix of local families, Rastas and European tourists who go there to dance and listen to old school reggae music. It goes from sunset until around two in the morning.”

4. Piggy’s Jerk Centre

“You can’t eat anything more quintessentially Jamaican than jerk chicken — and Piggy’s has the best in Port Antonio,” said Mr. Pentz. Even the most recent 007 himself, the actor Daniel Craig, would probably agree. During the filming of “No Time to Die,” the cast and crew would often hang out at this tiny eatery in Market Square in the center of Port Antonio. When the original restaurant burned in a fire, Mr. Craig and his pals raised funds to help rebuild it. “It’s a great place to eat some delicious food and hang out with the locals,” said Mr. Pentz. “I make sure to stop by at least once every time I’m in town.”

5. Boston Bay

Considered the birthplace of spicy jerk seasoning, Boston Bay is a town with a skate park and pretty bay that is home to one of the only surf spots in Jamaica. It’s also home to Boston Jerk Center, a collection of open-air food stalls that specialize in jerk cooking. “There’s maybe eight different restaurants and some serve the best jerk pork or jerk chicken, some have jerk vegetables,” said Mr. Pentz, who recommends getting your food to go and finding a spot at Boston Beach to watch the surfers. “You can rent a board and take a lesson. When I’m in town, this is where I surf.”

Follow New York Times Travel on Instagram and sign up for our weekly Travel Dispatch newsletter to get expert tips on traveling smarter and inspiration for your next vacation. Dreaming up a future getaway or just armchair traveling? Check out our 52 Places to Go in 2024 .

An earlier version of this article misstated Diplo’s Grammy Award history. He has won several Grammy Awards, he is not only a nominee.

How we handle corrections

Open Up Your World

Considering a trip, or just some armchair traveling here are some ideas..

52 Places:  Why do we travel? For food, culture, adventure, natural beauty? Our 2024 list has all those elements, and more .

Port Antonio, Jamaica:  The Grammy-nominated D.J. and music producer Diplo recommends spots in a city he loves  on Jamaica’s northeast coast. A dance party makes the cut.

New Mexico:  The Gila Wilderness, home to wolves, mountain lions and other wildlife, marks a century as a “land lab,”  where nature thrives as far as the eye can see.

Greece:  Is Serifos the perfect Greek island? A writer’s checklist included ferry service, great beaches and good local restaurants.

Brooklyn:  This 36-hour itinerary  skips the most touristy and overdeveloped areas, including Williamsburg and Dumbo, and requires no restaurant reservations or advance planning.

Costa Rica:  Travelers are signing up for phone-free tours to try to escape technology’s tether on daily life. But would it make for a better experience ?

Advertisement

Sign in to add this item to your wishlist, follow it, or mark it as ignored

About This Content

System requirements.

• Requires a 64-bit processor and operating system
• OS *: OS Version - Windows 7, 8, 10 x64
• Processor: Dual-Core 2.4 Ghz
• Memory: 4 MB RAM
• Graphics: Graphics Card Intel HD4600 or higher
• Network: Broadband Internet connection
• Storage: 12 MB available space
• Additional Notes: External mouse or compatible Xbox controller required
• OS *: Windows 7,8,10 x64
• Processor: Quad-Core 3.0 GHz
• Memory: 8 MB RAM
• Graphics: Graphics Card with 2 GB Video RAM: Nvidia Geforce GTX 660 or equivalent
• OS: 10.9 Mavericks
• Processor: Intel Core i5 1,6 Ghz
• Graphics: Intel HD Graphics 6000
• OS: 10.11 El Capitan
• Processor: Intel Quad-Core 2.2 GHz
• Graphics: AMD Radeon R9 M370X 2 GB GDDR5
• OS: Ubuntu 12.04
• Processor: Dual core from Intel or AMD at 2.8 GHz
• Graphics: nVidia Geforce 8600/9600GT (Driver v331), AMD HD 2xxx-4xxx (Driver mesa 10.5.9), AMD HD 5xxx+ (Driver mesa 10.5.9 or Catalyst 15.7), Intel HD 3000 (Driver mesa 10.6)

More like this

Customer reviews.

You can use this widget-maker to generate a bit of HTML that can be embedded in your website to easily allow customers to purchase this game on Steam.

Enter up to 375 characters to add a description to your widget:

Copy and paste the HTML below into your website to make the above widget appear

Popular user-defined tags for this product: (?)

Sign in to add your own tags to this product.