Secret Atlas adds 36-guest Antarctica explorer yacht Aureum

Secret Atlas has added Explorer Yacht Aureum to its expedition portfolio for the 2027/28 and 2028/29 Antarctic and South Georgia seasons. The launch expands the company’s small-group polar offerings with a purpose-designed vessel, new fly-and-sail itineraries, and bookings now open.

Why it matters: - Secret Atlas is leaning further into small-group polar travel as demand grows for more immersive expedition experiences. - Aureum is designed for just 36 guests, giving travelers a far smaller onboard footprint than conventional expedition ships. - The new vessel expands Secret Atlas beyond the Arctic and into Antarctica and South Georgia.

What happened: - Secret Atlas announced the addition of Explorer Yacht Aureum to its expedition portfolio on October 9, 2026. - Aureum will operate under the Secret Atlas banner in partnership with Antarpply Expeditions. - The vessel is slated for the 2027/28 and 2028/29 Antarctic and South Georgia seasons. - Bookings are now open for Secret Atlas Expedition Micro Cruises aboard Aureum.

The details: - Aureum is described as the first purpose-designed 36-guest expedition vessel operating in Antarctica. - The ice-class explorer yacht will carry 36 guests in 22 cabins. - Cabin inventory includes Suites and eight Single Cabins with no single supplement. - Onboard amenities include a panoramic observation lounge, bridge lounge, expansive outdoor viewing decks, an open observation bow, a wellness area with sauna and outdoor hot tub, and a restaurant with single-sitting dining. - Secret Atlas says the ship will support a guide-to-guest ratio of one Polar Guide for every six guests. - The company says guests will have access to expedition leaders, scientists and naturalists. - Launch programs include the Antarctica By Air and South Georgia In Depth Expedition Micro Cruise itineraries. - The new Antarctica By Air program operates through the Secret Atlas expedition hub in Puerto Natales, Chile. - The By Air format flies guests directly to Antarctica to reduce time on the Drake Passage and maximize time exploring. - Air-based itineraries include the Antarctic Circle By Air Expedition Micro Cruise and the Antarctic Peninsula By Air & Sea Expedition Micro Cruise. - The By Air & Sea departures sail one way from Ushuaia and focus on traditional sites. - Secret Atlas directs readers to more information on Aureum and says more information about the company is available at Secret Atlas.

Between the lines: - The partnership with Antarpply Expeditions suggests Secret Atlas is building capacity without moving away from its small-vessel identity. - Fly-and-sail options are a direct response to a common traveler pain point: long time crossing the Drake Passage. - The emphasis on fewer guests, more guides and single-sitting dining signals a product aimed at high-touch, intimate expedition experiences.

What's next: - Secret Atlas will operate the Aureum programs across the 2027/28 and 2028/29 seasons. - Travelers can choose from South Georgia-focused itineraries, South Georgia and Antarctica combinations, and air-supported Antarctic departures. - The company is positioning Aureum as the platform for future Antarctic and South Georgia growth.