HIGHLIGHTS

The Classic Antarctica air-cruise is one of the most popular Antarctica expedition itineraries. Once arriving by flight to Antarctica, you will sail between the South Shetland Islands and the western coast of the Antarctic Peninsula. Enjoy seeing ice-filled fjords and spectacular icebergs, while spotting penguins, seals, and whales that call the White Continent home. Each day offers new adventures, from Zodiac excursions to inspiring presentations, creating a once-in-a-lifetime experience at the heart of the Antarctic wilderness.

Journey past towering icebergs and through ice-filled fjords in Antarctica’s most scenic waterways.
Witness Antarctica’s extraordinary wildlife, from curious penguins to breaching whales and lounging seals.
When weather allows it, step ashore on the Antarctic Peninsula and South Shetland Islands, walking where few have ventured.
Experience the thrill of Zodiac excursions, navigating between glaciers and through pristine polar waters.
Learn from expert polar guides during daily presentations and guided landings at remarkable Antarctic sites.
Sail aboard our boutique expedition ship, enjoying premium comfort while exploring Earth’s last frontier.

Map/Itinerary

Day 1Start of the Air-Cruise

Arrive in Punta Arenas, Chile, where you are welcomed by staff and transferred to your hotel. Before 2 PM, you are expected at Explorers House for your check-in, for a mandatory briefing that provides important information about your air-cruise and essential guidelines for Antarctic visitors. Later, gather for a welcome dinner and meet your fellow adventurers while enjoying a typical regional menu.

Day 2Scheduled Flight to Antarctica

A two-hour exclusive chartered flight takes you from Punta Arenas to King George Island, in the South Shetland Islands. As you exit the aircraft, the clear Antarctic air fills your lungs for the first time. You then board a transfer vehicle and pass Chile’s Frei Station and Russia’s Bellingshausen Station to reach the shore and board a Zodiac that will take you to your boutique expedition vessel.

Day 3–6Exploring Antarctica

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 seabirds, penguins, seals, and whales. Each day disembark by Zodiac and explore the landscape together with expert polar guides. On board the ship, attend an engaging program of educational presentations, and enjoy spectacular views from the lounge while sharing your daily adventures with fellow guests.

Day 7Scheduled Return Flight from Antarctica

Return to King George Island and bid farewell to Antarctica before boarding the chartered flight back to Punta Arenas. Upon arrival, transfer to your hotel for the night. (Note: Meals in Punta Arenas are at your leisure and not included in the program).

Day 8End of the Air-Cruise

After breakfast, transfer to the Punta Arenas airport for your onward flight.

*Please note: This itinerary is meant to serve as a general guide. Plans may change along the way, depending on weather, sea conditions, or choices made by the Expedition Leader and team to give you the safest and most rewarding experience.

Inclusions/Exclusions

This expedition includes:

Comprehensive pre- and post-voyage information material.
Group transfers from the airport and hotel on Day 1 for guests arriving in Punta Arenas and from the hotel to the airport on the last day of the air-cruise itinerary.
Welcome dinner on Day 1 at Explorers House in Punta Arenas.
Two nights stay with breakfast in Punta Arenas at the Cabo de Hornos Hotel or similar on Day 1 and the day of the scheduled return flight from Antarctica.
Ship cruise and flight from Punta Arenas, Chile, to King George Island, Antarctica, and/or vice versa as indicated in the program corresponding to each air-cruise itinerary.
Guided shore landings and Zodiac excursions in Antarctica, as well as lectures and entertainment on board your boutique vessel.
Daily buffet breakfast, lunch and dinner, as well as wine, beer, juice, soft drinks, coffee, tea, chocolate, cappuccino, water, and snacks on board the ship.
Contingency plan, loan of waterproof boots for landings in Antarctica, and IAATO passenger fee.
Special access to Explorers House for guests in Punta Arenas.

This expedition excludes:

Accommodation, meals, excursions, and transfers other than those included in the itinerary. Dinner in Punta Arenas upon return from Antarctica is not included.
Beverages purchased at the ship’s bar.
Personal travel and medical insurance.
Extra expenses (communication, laundry, souvenirs, etc.).
Gratuities.
Visas for Chile, Argentina and/or United Kingdom (for South Georgia), passport expenses, and any arrival and/or departure tax, if applicable.