The polar operator Antarctica 21 present a superb opportunity to visit Antarctica for those short on time (or prone to sea sickness) as their fly-cruise programme avoids the two-day crossing of the Drake Passage in each direction. On board the Magellan Explorer you can expect comfortable cabins, high quality dining experiences and daily lectures from world-renowned naturalist guides.
CLASSIC ANTARCTICA FLY CRUISE
HIGHLIGHTS
- Spotting incredible Antarctic wildlife such as humpback and minke whales, leopard seals and vast colonies of penguins.
- Take Zodiac boat trips through channels of dazzling blue icebergs.
- Avoid the choppy Drake Passage by flying from mainland Chile to King George Island.
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Arrive
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Day 1 Arrival in Punta Arenas (Chile)
Arrive in Punta Arenas in Chilean Patagonia today. You wil be met at the airport by a representative from Antarctica 21 and transfer to your cosy hotel in Punta Arenas. This afternoon you will be required to attend a mandatory briefing which provides essential information and guidelines about your adventure to Antarctica. This evening you will meet your fellow travellers for a welcome dinner, with a chance to try delicious regional specialities.
Overnight: Hotel Cabo de Hornos
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Day 2 Scheduled flight to Antarctica
This morning, dependent on weather conditions, your Antarctic adventure begins with a two-hour flight from Punta Arenas to King George Island in the South Shetland Islands. The BAE-146 aircraft with more than 20 years of experience flying in Patagonia and Antarctica is a high-wing aircraft with very short runway requirements, making it particularly suited for landing and take-off in polar regions. Landing on King George Island you will have the opportunity to explore the area surrounding Chile's Frei research station and Russia's Bellingshausen station, before boarding a Zodiac to join your expedition vessel. Settle in to your cabin and enjoy your first dinner onboard.
Overnight: Magellan Explorer
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Day 3 - 6 Exploring Antarctica
Spend these days cruising between the South Shetland Islands and the western coast of the Antarctic Peninsula. You will sail along ice-filled fjords with dazzling reflections when conditions are clear, pass spectacular icebergs and observe groups of seals and penguins lazing on the passing ice. The crew in the bridge are always on the look out for whales too, so you should never leave your cabin without your camera! Each day you will disembark by Zodiac together with expert polar guides to enjoy the dramatic scenery and remarkable wildlife from different perspectives. Back onboard you will have the chance to attend an engaging program of lectures and presentations, and share your daily adventures with fellow guests and the crew.
Overnight: Magellan Explorer
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Day 7 Return flight from Antarctica
The expedition ship returns to King George Island where you will disembark and bid farewell to Antarctica. Take your onward flight to Punta Arenas, where you will be met upon arrival and driven to your hotel for the night.
Overnight: Hotel Cabo de Hornos
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Day 8 Depart Punta Arenas
Enjoy breakfast at your hotel before taking a transfer to Punta Arenas for your onward flight.
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Depart
BOOKING NOTES
- Price is per person based on two adults sharing a double/twin cabin.
- Ports of call and suggested activities on itineraries to Antarctica are always subject to change due to the prevailing weather and sea conditions. Itineraries are therefore designed to give you a flavour of what is possible, rather than a strictly regimented plan.
- Comprehensive travel insurance including cover for medical evacuation is a mandatory booking condition for all expedition cruises to Antarctica.
INCLUSIONS
- Return flights between Punta Arenas (Chile) and King George Island.
- All meals on board the ship.
- All lectures by naturalist guides.
- One pre and post night's accommodation in Punta Arenas.
- All excursions by zodiac and landings on the continent.
- Coffee, tea and water throughout the day and a selection of beer and wine is available during lunch and dinner aboard the Magellan Explorer.
EXTRAS
- Sea kayaking and snowshoeing (limited spaces available).
- International flights to Santiago.
- Domestic flights within Chile.
- Any meals not indicated in the itinerary.
- Items of a personal nature such as laundry, additional soft drinks and alcoholic beverages, gratuities (discretionary).
- Entrance fees and excursions not specifically mentioned as included.
- Travel insurance or visa fees.
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REASONS TO BOOK
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