Polar Circle Air Cruise on a small ship that welcomes a maximum
of 75 guests. That means disembarking and embarking in Antarctica is faster and smoother. You spend more time seeing what you came to see, not waiting your turn. There's still a side of the Earth that remains virtually untouched. An entire continent of windswept expanses, snow-shrouded peaks and haunting emptiness stretching to the far horizon. A place where ice takes on hues of turquoise and iridescent blue so surreal, you feel you've entered a dream world. Where even as you reach for words to describe your sense of awe, you realize none will ever capture the experience of being here.
Fly The Drake
The two-hour flight takes you from Punta Arenas, the international gateway to Chilean Patagonia, directly to Antarctica, where you then board your expedition ship. No stormy crossing. No seasickness. Just quick, total immersion in your Antarctic adventure.
Landscape
A land that holds 90% of Earth’s ice, Antarctica stuns visitors with its awe-inspiring beauty. See peaceful bays dotted with colossal icebergs; cruise along deep fjords and spot massive glaciers; be amazed by sharp snowy peaks that jut out of the sea.
Adventure
Feel the spray of seawater on your cheeks as you cruise in a Zodiac boat to shore. Follow in the footsteps of early explorers as you hike on Antarctic soil. Join our optional Sea Kayaking and Hiking & Snowshoeing programs.
Wildlife
Penguins, whales, seals, and seabirds congregate in Antarctica and South Georgia during the austral summer. Present in large numbers, you can move along in their world and find endless inspiration for photographs.
Memories
Setting foot on the seventh continent is a privilege and an honor. You will bring home indelible tales, and your journey will arouse the curiosity and admiration of your friends and family.
Polar Circle Air-Cruise – 10 Days/ 9 Nights
Itinerary summary: in-depth expedition, explore farther, see more; Sail farther south to try to reach the Antarctic Circle
Day 1 / Start of the Air-Cruise
Staff members welcome you in Punta Arenas, Chile, before 2 PM. Transfer to your hotel, visit Explorers House, and attend a mandatory briefing that provides important information about your air-cruise and reviews the essential guidelines for Antarctic visitors. A welcome dinner introduces you to the local gastronomy as you meet fellow adventurers from around the world
Day 2 / Scheduled flight to Antarctica
A smooth two-hour flight takes you efficiently from Punta Arenas to King George Island, in the South Shetland Islands. Your Antarctic adventure begins as you exit the airplane and the clear Antarctic air fills your lungs for the first time. You then walk 2-km (1.25-mi) passing 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 3-8 / Exploring Antarctica
Sail along ice-filled fjords and among spectacular icebergs, while enjoying the company of seabirds, penguins, seals and whales. Visit the South Shetland Islands and the western coast of the Antarctic Peninsula, disembarking by Zodiac each day. In small groups, hike to extraordinary sites and take part in exploratory Zodiac excursions to otherwise inaccessible areas. Our expert polar guides share their passion for Antarctica through an engaging program of illustrated presentations, and lead you ashore to interpret the wildlife, the history and the many wonders of the Antarctic environment. From the glass-enclosed lounge, enjoy spectacular views while sharing your daily adventures with fellow guests over a drink. The goal of the expedition is to sail far south in the attempt of reaching the Polar Circle. The Expedition Team plans the specific voyage route based on local conditions, and takes advantage of the ever-changing opportunities provided by nature. Flexibility will be the key to a successful voyage. Your voyage may include visits to sites in the South Shetland Islands, the Antarctic Sound, the Gerlache and Penola Straits, and the Crystal Sound. Each voyage is unique and each is crafted to provide the best possible overview of the varied Antarctic environment.
Day 9 / Scheduled return flight from Antarctica
Back at King George Island, bid farewell to Antarctica as you board the flight 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 10 / End of the Air-Cruise
After breakfast, transfer to the Punta Arenas airport for your onward flight.