Women are set to make new waves in Antarctica as Aurora Expeditions announces its first women’s only fly/fly voyage, led by global travel storyteller Lola Akinmade Åkerström and featuring former NASA astronaut Dr Sandy Magnus.
Set aboard the Sylvia Earle—Aurora Expeditions’ purpose-built small ship named after the pioneering oceanographer—this exclusive journey is designed by women, led by women, and open to women looking to experience Antarctica’s wild beauty in a spirit of camaraderie and connection.
Joining Akinmade Åkerström on the Antarctic Direct: Fly the Drake Fly/Fly Women’s Only Expedition will be former NASA astronaut Dr. Sandra H. “Sandy” Magnus, adding further inspiration to the voyage’s focus on exploration, storytelling, and environmental conservation.
Who is Lola Akinmade Åkerström?
Akinmade Åkerström brings an extensive global perspective to the expedition, having photographed and reported from more than 80 countries. Her work has been featured in The BBC, CNN, The Guardian, Travel + Leisure, Slate, Lonely Planet and others.
Named a Hasselblad Heroine, she has been recognised across the industry, including on the Conde Nast Traveler Women Who Travel Power List, the Newsweek Future of Travel Award for Storytelling, and the Travel Pulse Most Influential Woman in Travel award. She has also been listed among the MIPAD 100 (Most Influential People of African Descent).
“This is more than a trip; it’s a community of women coming together to explore one of the most pristine places on the planet,” said Lola. “I’m honoured to host this transformational journey and help foster new stories, friendships, and memories in the awe-inspiring landscapes of Antarctica.”
Why now—and why Antarctica?
Departing 23 February 2027, the voyage will take place during the late Antarctic summer, a prime time for wildlife encounters and striking natural landscapes. Penguins, seals and whales will be highly active, while towering glaciers and golden polar sunsets set the backdrop.
The experience includes return flights across the Drake Passage, one of the most challenging stretches of ocean for sailors. By flying both ways, travellers will maximise their time on the continent itself—a significant selling point for time-conscious adventurers.
In line with Aurora Expeditions’ ethos, the Sylvia Earle—which honours six pioneering women in conservation—provides an apt setting for a voyage focused on female leadership and environmental stewardship.
What’s on offer
Beyond the landscapes, the journey promises a program of enrichment, designed to inspire and connect:
- Hosted presentations and storytelling sessions with Lola Akinmade Åkerström.
- Special guest talks by Dr. Sandy Magnus.
- Zodiac excursions, guided hikes and wildlife encounters.
- Community-building activities tailored to female travellers.
Places are strictly limited. Bookings and itinerary details are available through Aurora Expeditions.
Australian-owned Aurora Expeditions has spent over three decades specialising in small-ship adventure travel. With a strong focus on environmental responsibility, the company is a Certified B Corporation™️ and Carbon Neutral, with a growing fleet that includes the Greg Mortimer, the Sylvia Earle, and the upcoming Douglas Mawson (launching December 2025).
Aurora Expeditions’ voyages are built around immersive activities, extensive off-ship exploration time, and thoughtful enrichment programs—all designed to provide travellers with deeper, more meaningful encounters with the world’s wild places.
KARRYON UNPACKS: For travel agents, this voyage taps into several key trends: women-led travel, transformational experiences, and sustainability-focused exploration. The exclusive nature of the offering—combined with the fly/fly format and celebrity hosts—positions it as a premium product ideal for the adventure and luxury markets. Aurora’s strong Australian connection is another selling point for local trade.
