Wild Women Expeditions & Aurora Announce All-Female Antarctic Expedition

Wild Women Expeditions, in partnership with Aurora Expeditions and in celebration of International Women’s Day, has announced the launch of its newest trip: Antarctic Women’s Expedition: Fly the Drake, which it is calling the first and only all-female Antarctic expedition designed by women, for women. 

“We couldn’t be more proud or excited to be part of this historic expedition,” said Jennifer Haddow, CEO of Wild Women Expeditions.

“This is not only going to be a fantastic trip, but it marks a significant moment in history. It is a testament to the fact that women have been here, contributing to science, exploration, sustainability, and advocacy for many years and that we are here today, and we will be here, leading the way through our curiosity, collaboration, and community into the future,” Haddow added.

Guests will begin their trip in Punta Arenas, Chile, where they will fly to King William Island to embark the Sylvia Earle, named for Dr. Sylvia Earle, a world-renowned marine biologist, oceanographer, explorer, and advocate for ocean conservation and education, who also holds the record for the deepest walk on the sea floor. 

Flying to and from King William Island eliminates the need to cross the Drake Passage by ship. 

From here, guests will spend the 10-day expedition observing the wildlife of Antarctica, enjoying a range of shore excursions, and learning about women in conservation, both past and present, through engaging programming, while also enjoying time with friends new and old. 

At this time of the year, penguin chicks will be developing their adult plumage and learning to swim, with leopard seals and orcas patrolling the waters, and increasing numbers of whales preparing to migrate. At the end of the expedition, guests will disembark on King William Island and fly via charter back to Punta Arenas.

The Sylvia Earle is a newly built, carbon neutral, 130-passenger vessel that not only pays tribute to Dr. Earle but also to six other pioneering women of science: Dr. Carden Wallace, Joanna Ruxton, Sharon Kwok, Bernadette Demientieff, Dr. Asha de Vos, and Hanli Prinsloo, with public decks honouring their contributions and shining a light on their important work.

“This trip is the culmination of a lot of hard work and dedication, and truly a huge moment for Wild Women,” said Haddow. “It signifies everything that we stand for as a company and we are so honoured that we will be part of this momentous journey.”

To learn more about this expedition, click here.