Antarctica
Fly and Cruise Antarctica
Antarctica
Antarctica
A rapid 11-day expedition designed to maximize time in Antarctica by flying both ways across the Drake Passage. Journey south to cross the Antarctic Circle, experiencing the region's isolated beauty, vast ice, and abundant feeding whales.
Duration: 11 days / 10 nights
Starts: Punta Arenas, Chile
Ends: Punta Arenas, Chile
Language: English speaking voyage
The itinerary is a guide only and is subject to change due to weather and ice conditions. Your Captain and Expedition Leader will make the necessary adjustments to ensure the best possible experience.
Includes hotel accommodation in Punta Arenas (Cabo de Hornos or similar) on Day 1 and Day 10, and round-trip charter flights between Punta Arenas and King George Island (Antarctica), soaring over the Drake Passage in both directions.
Charter Flights More info about this activity
In departures with charter flights, part of the air transport segment is covered by the operation of the trip as part of the itinerary.
Check in the inclusions and exclusions of the program which air sections are included in your itinerary.
Ship Cruise More info about this activity
Not only we travel from one point to another and find our shelter on board the ship we chose. We also enjoy from incredible scenery, landscapes and interactions that only our noble vessel can provide.
Everyday the Bridge Team navigates the ship to position ourselves on the best posible spots, looking for unique opportunities.
Many times, this includes sainig through narrow passages, on the vicinity of glaciers or entering bays and fjords only approachable from the ship.
Enjoy this incredible places from the comfort of the common areas on board, open decks or your own private balcony!
Shore Excursion More info about this activity
Shore excursions are the backbone of almost all itineraries, with most ships making landfall at least once every day once they reach their destination. The weather plays a huge role in your daily itinerary, although given the sheer array of fantastic landing sites all over there are plenty of options your Captain and Expedition Leader can choose from. On-shore excursions allow you to visit scientific research stations, communities, prominent wildlife colonies and take hikes to elevated viewing points for fantastic photography.
Zodiac cruising More info about this activity
On board the Zodiac you will discover a world of possibilities; accessing the most exclusive landing sites, cruising the coast in search of wildlife or simply enjoying a tour in the calm of the polar regions in search of marine wildlife or bird colonies.
The blue ice an its intimate presence is experienced at its best on zodiac tours.
It is not uncommon to meet curious seals, or humpback whales feeding.
Enrichment Program More info about this activity
Expedition cruising must be one of the most incredible ways of travelling. Not only for the amazing places you visit and the unforgetable wildlife but for the wildlife, the sensory overload and the unimaginable memories.
But all of this needs a context in order to understand where you are and what you are experiencing.
On board your expedition vessell you will find a group of experts, naturalists, zodiac drivers and guides that that will translate the language of nature for you, telling you the stories of the places you are visiting, reviewing the historical, biological, ecological and geological aspects of your trips.
You will experience first hand what surrounds you and arrive back home wiser and loaded with new knowledge.
Hiking More info about this activity
Hiking options include very easy beach hikes (good for photographers who need time for photography), easier short hikes, medium-difficulty extended hikes, and more challenging long hikes.
Snorkelling More info about this activity
Witness wildlife and scenery unlike any other place on earth. Through crystal clear waters you’ll discover the amazing mobility and speed of penguins entering and exiting from the ice, marvel at beautiful sculpted icebergs below the water and witness marine life such as crustaceans, isopods, starfish and nudibranchs!
With a longstanding tradition of pushing the boundaries, Aurora Expeditions launched our Antarctic snorkelling adventures in 2014. In 2016 the activity has also been added to a range of our Arctic expeditions. This unique experience will allow passengers to see both destinations in a completely new dimension, witnessing wildlife and scenery unlike any other place on earth.
Kayaking More info about this activity
The experience of sea kayaking in the humbling wilderness of Antarctica or the Arctic is guaranteed to stir your soul.
Sea kayaking is one of the highlights for any Polar Traveller, providing ice and weather conditions are assessed as safe by your Expedition Team.
This activity requires previous kayaking experience.
Paddling More info about this activity
Paddle Excursion Program provides sit-on-top, two-person, inflatable kayaks that provide guests with an intimate, water-level experience in unforgettable locations in both the Arctic and Antarctica. These stable, rugged and comfortable crafts are an ideal way to see the polar regions from a different perspective. On-ship, you'll be provided with instruction and equipment including dry suits, personal flotation devices (PFDs), and waterproof gloves. Experienced guides will lead you safely throughout the paddling excursion. Your group will always be escorted by a safety driver in another kayak who will stay close by to provide additional support.
The Across the Antarctic Circle Fly/Fly expedition offers the ultimate time-saving Antarctic adventure, allowing you to soar over the Drake Passage in both directions, maximizing your time for exploration on the White Continent. Venturing below the Antarctic Circle is about more than just earning bragging rights; it is the chance to enter a different, more isolated, and colder world rarely seen, characterized by great swathes of pack-ice and dreamlike icebergs. The crossing of this imaginary line (66°33' South) will be a moment of celebration, making you part of an exclusive group of polar adventurers.
The seven days of Antarctic cruising are dedicated to threading through pack ice and narrow channels, where scenes of ice-clad mountains, lively penguin colonies, and feeding whales become lasting memories. We will conduct daily Zodiac cruises and landings to explore historic explorers’ huts, scientific stations, and pristine beaches. Keep a close watch for whales, seals (Weddell and crabeater), and porpoising penguins. This expedition blends swift access with deep exploration, focusing on the most rewarding and remote experiences the Antarctic Peninsula has to offer.
Highlights:
Soar over the Drake Passage in both directions, soaking in the icy scenery below and maximizing time for exploration.
Celebrate the crossing of the Antarctic Circle at latitude 66°33' South (approximately).
Zodiac cruise in secluded bays and quiet coves filled with brash ice and photograph enormous glaciers and spectacularly shaped icebergs.
Keep a close watch for the tail fluke of whales and ice seals such as Weddell and crabeater seals hauled out on ice floes.
Visit fascinating historic sites including explorers’ huts and scientific stations.
Day 1: Arrive Punta Arenas
Arrival, Briefing, and Preparation for Flight
Arrive in Punta Arenas (no later than 2:00 pm) and be transferred to the group hotel (Cabo de Hornos or similar). Visit the hospitality desk between 2:00 pm and 6:00 pm to collect luggage tags and confirm embarkation details. In the evening (7:00 pm), attend a mandatory voyage briefing to reconfirm transfer times, flight procedures to King George Island, and outline IAATO regulations for Antarctica. The hotel is located overlooking the Straits of Magellan, offering a blend of cultural backgrounds and history (meals today are at your own expense).
Day 2: Flight Punta Arenas to King George Island, Embarkation
Charter Flight to Antarctica and Boarding
This morning, transfer to Punta Arenas airport for the charter flight to King George Island, Antarctica (approximately one hour and forty-five minutes, weather permitting). Upon arrival, the expedition team greets you and prepares you for the Zodiac transfer to the vessel. Settle into your cabin before attending important safety briefings. Note: The flight requires clear visibility for safety; a contingency plan will be applied if the flight does not proceed today.
Days 3–9: Antarctic Peninsula & Antarctic Circle
Crossing the Circle and Exploring the Deep South
For seven days, the western Antarctic Peninsula and the South Shetland Islands are yours to explore, taking advantage of the long daylight hours (18-24 hours). The expert expedition team designs the daily itinerary based on conditions to maximize wildlife and ice encounters. We generally aim for twice-daily landings or Zodiac excursions: cruising along spectacular ice cliffs, among grounded icebergs, and transporting guests ashore to visit penguin rookeries and historic huts. Conditions permitting, we plan to cross the Antarctic Circle (66°33' South), celebrating this special moment with a toast. The waters here are rich with krill, providing excellent chances to see feeding humpbacks and minkes, as well as seals and porpoising penguins. Optional activities and the Polar Plunge may be offered.
Day 10: Fly King George Island to Punta Arenas
Farewell Antarctica and Return Charter Flight
We approach Frei Base on King George Island to bid farewell to Antarctica. Board the return charter flight (approximately one hour and forty-five minutes) to Punta Arenas, Chile, soaring over the Drake Passage. Use the flight time for reflection. From the airport, you will be transferred to the group hotel (Cabo de Hornos or similar) for an overnight stay.
Note: Safe flight operation requires clear visibility; delays may occur.
Day 11: Depart Punta Arenas
Departure and Onward Travel
After breakfast, bid a fond farewell to your fellow travelers. A transfer to the airport is included in the voyage fare, where you will continue your onward journey, carrying a newfound sense of the immense power of nature.
Day 1: Arrive Punta Arenas
Arrival, Briefing, and Preparation for Flight
Arrive in Punta Arenas (no later than 2:00 pm) and be transferred to the group hotel (Cabo de Hornos or similar). Visit the hospitality desk between 2:00 pm and 6:00 pm to collect luggage tags and confirm embarkation details. In the evening (7:00 pm), attend a mandatory voyage briefing to reconfirm transfer times, flight procedures to King George Island, and outline IAATO regulations for Antarctica. The hotel is located overlooking the Straits of Magellan, offering a blend of cultural backgrounds and history (meals today are at your own expense).
Day 2: Flight Punta Arenas to King George Island, Embarkation
Charter Flight to Antarctica and Boarding
This morning, transfer to Punta Arenas airport for the charter flight to King George Island, Antarctica (approximately one hour and forty-five minutes, weather permitting). Upon arrival, the expedition team greets you and prepares you for the Zodiac transfer to the vessel. Settle into your cabin before attending important safety briefings. Note: The flight requires clear visibility for safety; a contingency plan will be applied if the flight does not proceed today.
Days 3–9: Antarctic Peninsula & Antarctic Circle
Crossing the Circle and Exploring the Deep South
For seven days, the western Antarctic Peninsula and the South Shetland Islands are yours to explore, taking advantage of the long daylight hours (18-24 hours). The expert expedition team designs the daily itinerary based on conditions to maximize wildlife and ice encounters. We generally aim for twice-daily landings or Zodiac excursions: cruising along spectacular ice cliffs, among grounded icebergs, and transporting guests ashore to visit penguin rookeries and historic huts. Conditions permitting, we plan to cross the Antarctic Circle (66°33' South), celebrating this special moment with a toast. The waters here are rich with krill, providing excellent chances to see feeding humpbacks and minkes, as well as seals and porpoising penguins. Optional activities and the Polar Plunge may be offered.
Day 10: Fly King George Island to Punta Arenas
Farewell Antarctica and Return Charter Flight
We approach Frei Base on King George Island to bid farewell to Antarctica. Board the return charter flight (approximately one hour and forty-five minutes) to Punta Arenas, Chile, soaring over the Drake Passage. Use the flight time for reflection. From the airport, you will be transferred to the group hotel (Cabo de Hornos or similar) for an overnight stay.
Note: Safe flight operation requires clear visibility; delays may occur.
Day 11: Depart Punta Arenas
Departure and Onward Travel
After breakfast, bid a fond farewell to your fellow travelers. A transfer to the airport is included in the voyage fare, where you will continue your onward journey, carrying a newfound sense of the immense power of nature.
INCLUSIONS
All airport transfers mentioned in the itinerary.
Two night’s hotel accommodation including breakfast, in Punta Arenas on Day 1 and Day 10.
Return charter flight between Punta Arenas and King George Island.
Onboard accommodation during voyage, including daily cabin service.
All meals, snacks, tea, coffee, soft drinks and juices during voyage.
Beer and house wine with dinner.
Captain’s Farewell reception including four-course dinner, house cocktails, house beer and wine, non-alcoholic beverages.
All shore excursions and Zodiac cruises.
Educational lectures and guiding services provided by Expedition Team.
Complimentary access to onboard expedition doctor and medical clinic (initial consultation).
One 3-in-1 waterproof, polar expedition jacket.
Complimentary use of Muck Boots during the voyage.
Comprehensive pre-departure information.
Port surcharges, permits and landing fees.
Wi-Fi*.
*Please note we travel to remote regions and therefore the connection can be unreliable.
EXCLUSIONS
International or domestic flights – unless specified in the itinerary.
Transfers – unless specified in the itinerary.
Airport arrival or departure taxes.
Passport, visa, reciprocity and vaccination fees and charges.
Travel insurance or emergency evacuation charges.
Hotel accommodation and meals – unless specified in the itinerary.
Optional excursions and optional activity surcharges.
All items of a personal nature, including but not limited to alcoholic beverages (outside of dinner service), gratuities, laundry services, personal clothing, medical expenses or phone charges.
Note: A $15 USD per person per day gratuity for the crew is automatically added to your onboard account. It is at your discretion if you would like to remove the tip (or adjust the amount) when you settle your bill. It is not necessary to tip the expedition team members. This gratuity amount is included for suites as part of their ‘Suite Benefits’.
Stateroom & balcony combined size: 45.22m2 (486.7ft2)
The largest of all our rooms, the singular Captain\\\\\\\'s Suite will take you to the polar regions in ultimate style and comfort. Complete with large lounge area, balcony, walk-in wardrobe and en-suite, you\\\\\\\'ll need to get in early to secure this suite.
Private en-suites
Private balcony
Full size window
Separate lounge area
Desk area
Closet space
Room-controlled thermostat
Room safe
42´´ flat-screen TV
Mini bar*
1 x 3-in-1 polar jacket per person (polar voyages only)
1 x free pair of binoculars per suite
Free stocked mini bar^
1 x free bottle of champagne per suite
A gratuity of $15 USD per person per day for the crew is included with each suite
^Junior Suites stocked once only, not replenished. Captain’s Suite replenished as needed.
Stateroom & balcony combined size: Up to 41.47m2 - 41.87m2 (446.4ft2 - 450.7ft2)
The four Junior Suites take in some impressive scenery from their vantage points on Deck 7. When you aren\\\\\\\'t enjoying a landing, you can relax in the suites\\\\\\\' separate lounge area, or just watch the world float by from the private balcony.
Private en-suites
Private balcony
Full size window
Separate lounge area
Desk area
Closet space
Room-controlled thermostat
Room safe
42´´ flat-screen TV
Mini bar*
1 x 3-in-1 polar jacket per person (polar voyages only)
1 x free pair of binoculars per suite
Free stocked mini bar^
1 x free bottle of champagne per suite
A gratuity of $15 USD per person per day for the crew is included with each suite
^Junior Suites stocked once only, not replenished. Captain’s Suite replenished as needed.
Stateroom & balcony combined size: 27.77m2 - 36.27m2 (298.9ft2 - 390.4ft2)
With a bit more room to stretch the legs, the Balcony Stateroom Superiors are perfect for polar adventurers who travel with plenty of gear.
Located on Deck 4 and 6, the Staterooms feature floor to ceiling windows, en-suite bathrooms and a comfortable desk area.
Some of these rooms are equipped with wheelchair accessible bathrooms.
Private en-suites (wheelchair accessible)
Private balcony
Full size window
Desk area
Closet space
Room-controlled thermostat
Room safe
42´´ flat-screen TV
Mini bar*
1 x 3-in-1 polar jacket per person (polar voyages only)
Some of these rooms are equipped with wheelchair accessible bathrooms.
*Please note mini bar items are chargeable in all staterooms except Junior Suite and Captain’s Suite
Stateroom & balcony combined size: 21.07m2 - 26.77m2 (226.8ft² - 288.2ft2)
We have three categories of our Balcony Staterooms. These are classified as A, B or C depending on the stateroom size.
Our 25 Balcony Stateroom A rooms are our premium room, and the most abundant on board. These staterooms are located in preferred positions on Deck 4 and 6 which provides easy access between Decks via the internal stairs or elevator.
Private en-suites
Private balcony
Full size window
Desk area
Closet space
Room-controlled thermostat
Room safe
42´´ flat-screen TV
Mini bar*
1 x 3-in-1 polar jacket per person (polar voyages only)
*Please note mini bar items are chargeable in all staterooms except Junior Suite and Captain’s Suite
Stateroom & balcony combined size: 21.07m2 - 26.77m2 (226.8ft² - 288.2ft2)
We have three categories of our Balcony Staterooms. These are classified as A, B or C depending on the stateroom size.
Our 17 Balcony Stateroom B rooms are our standard room, many fitted with interconnecting features making them great for families or groups. These staterooms are located at the fore and aft of Deck 4 and 6.
Private en-suites
Private balcony
Full size window
Desk area
Closet space
Room-controlled thermostat
Room safe
42´´ flat-screen TV
Mini bar*
1 x 3-in-1 polar jacket per person (polar voyages only)
*Please note mini bar items are chargeable in all staterooms except Junior Suite and Captain’s Suite
Stateroom & balcony combined size: 21.07m2 - 26.77m2 (226.8ft² - 288.2ft2)
We have three categories of our Balcony Staterooms. These are classified as A, B or C depending on the stateroom size.
Our 15 Balcony Stateroom Category C rooms are our most economical, fitted with all the necessities and comfortable for up to 2 people. These staterooms are scattered throughout Deck 4 & 6.
Private en-suites
Private balcony
Full size window
Desk area
Closet space
Room-controlled thermostat
Room safe
42´´ flat-screen TV
Mini bar*
1 x 3-in-1 polar jacket per person (polar voyages only)
*Please note mini bar items are chargeable in all staterooms except Junior Suite and Captain’s Suite
Stateroom size: 13.97m2 - 16.17m2 (150.4ft2 - 174.1ft2)
With a bit more room to stretch the legs, the Aurora Stateroom Superior are perfect for polar adventurers who travel with plenty of gear.
Located on Deck 7, the Staterooms feature french balconies, floor to ceiling windows, en-suite bathrooms and a comfortable desk area.
Private en-suites
French balcony
Desk area
Closet space
Room-controlled thermostat
Room safe
42´´ flat-screen TV
Mini bar*
1 x 3-in-1 polar jacket per person (polar voyages only)
*Please note mini bar items are chargeable in all staterooms except Junior Suite and Captain’s Suite
15.37m² - 15.97m² (165.4ft² - 171.9ft²)
The Douglas Mawson features two Aurora Stateroom Twin cabins featuring windows, all with private en-suites. Located on Deck 3, they´re close to the mudroom and loading platforms, perfect for adventurers who are looking for a comfortable base that´s close to the action.
Private en-suites
Porthole window
Desk area
Closet space
Room-controlled thermostat
Room safe
42´´ flat-screen TV
Mini bar*
1 x 3-in-1 polar jacket per person (polar voyages only)
*Please note mini bar items are chargeable in all staterooms except Junior Suite and Captain’s Suite
Stateroom size: 22.57m² (242.9ft²)
There are two Aurora Stateroom Triple cabins featuring portholes, both with private en-suites. Located on Deck 3, they´re close to the mudroom and loading platforms.
Private en-suites
Porthole window
Closet space
Room-controlled thermostat
Room safe
42´´ flat-screen TV
Mini bar*
1 x 3-in-1 polar jacket per person (polar voyages only)
*Please note mini bar items are chargeable in all staterooms except Junior Suite and Captain’s Suite
* The prices are per person in US Dollars, unless expressly specified in a different currency. In that case, payment will be in US dollars at the exchange rate of the day.
** Rates are correct at the time of publication. All prices will be re-confirmed by email at the time of booking.
NOTE: Embracing the unexpected is part of the legacy—and excitement—of expedition travel. When traveling in extremely remote regions, your expedition staff must allow the sea, the ice and the weather to guide route and itinerary details. This itinerary is a tentative outline of what you’ll experience on this voyage; please be aware that no specific itinerary can be guaranteed.
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THE POLAR TRAVEL COMPANY LLC
USA
8175 NW 12 ST #120, Doral, FL 33126
Miami - Dade, Florida
Tel: +1 (786) 321-5654
WhatsApp: +1 (786) 705-2241
Email:
travel@thepolartravelcompany.com
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