Antarctica Air Cruise

Antarctica is one of the most magnificent and pristine destinations imaginable, with snow-clad mountains rising straight from the sea and a wealth of fascinating wildlife, from millions of penguins to a plethora of seabirds, seals, and whales. A visit here is undoubtedly one of the most thrilling experiences in the world. This adventure takes advantage of a spectacular flight from Punta Arenas, Chile, to King George Island in Antarctica’s South Shetland Islands, avoiding the two-day, 600-mile crossing of the infamous Drake Passage. We soar high above the Southern Ocean and keep an eye out for the first icebergs as we approach our airstrip. Upon arrival, we board our comfortable expedition vessel, the Ocean Nova, for four full days of exploring the wonders of the “Last Continent.” If you’re limited in time, this is the perfect way to experience Antarctica!

Itinerary at a Glance

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Day 1
Punta Arenas, Chile

Arrive in Punta Arenas, Chile, where we are met and transferred to our hotel. In the afternoon, we attend a briefing that provides important information about our voyage and reviews the essential guidelines for Antarctic visitors. Later, we gather for a welcome dinner and meet our fellow adventurers.

Day 2
Fly to King George Island, Antarctica / Embark

A two-hour flight from Punta Arenas over Cape Horn and the mythical Drake Passage brings us to King George Island, in the South Shetland Islands. Upon arrival, we explore the area surrounding Chile’s Frei Station and Russia’s Bellingshausen station before boarding a Zodiac to embark our expedition vessel.

Days 3-6
Exploring the Antarctic Peninsula

We cruise between the South Shetland Islands and the western coast of the Antarctic Peninsula, sailing along ice-filled fjords and among spectacular icebergs while enjoying the company of sea birds, penguins, seals, and whales. Each day, we disembark by Zodiac and explore the landscape together with our expert polar guides. On board the ship, we attend an engaging program of lectures and presentations, and enjoy spectacular vistas from the glass-enclosed lounge while sharing our daily adventures with fellow guests. Our voyage may include visits to sites such as Paulet Island, Hope Bay, Port Lockroy, Petermann Island, Paradise Bay, Deception Island, the Lemaire Channel, and many other magnificent places.

Day 7
Punta Arenas

We return to King George Island and bid farewell to Antarctica before boarding our flight back to Punta Arenas. Upon arrival, connect with homeward-bound flights.

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What the Trip is Like

The trip is rated Level 1+, Easy. You will be travelling to a very remote destination. You must be able to complete on board safety drills and emergency evacuation procedures without the assistance of others. Rolling seas and windy conditions require you to be stable on your feet, especially when walking on slippery decks or up and down steep gangways. Shore excursions often require hiking over uneven terrain without the benefit of a developed trail. Some agility is required for getting in and out of the Zodiac landing crafts. While several Zodiac landings are dry, many will require that you step in the water to get ashore. Zodiac and shore excursions are weather permitting.

Explanation of Trip Levels