A21 Antarctic Peninsula Air-Cruise

Fly across the Drake and maximize your time in Antarctica!

Flying across the Drake Passage saves two days in each direction and avoids the possibility of a rough crossing. For those limited on time, this is an ideal opportunity to make the most of your time in Antarctica.

Antarctic wildlife

Adelie, Gentoo and Chinstrap penguins are just some of the species to be seen as you cruise the Antarctic Peninsula

Your voyage will take you to penguin rookeries, seal wallows, bird colonies and whale feeding areas await as you explore the islands, bays and inlets of the peninsula.

The polar expedition ship Magellan Explorer

Operated by Antarctica 21

Enjoy spacious staterooms, many with private verandas offer, aboard this brand new purpose-built polar expedition ship.

Designed and built in Chile, Magellan Explorer is brand new, boasting the latest technology and highest ice rating. 50 Suites and staterooms accommodate just 73 guests for an intimate cruise.
More about Magellan Explorer »

Antarctic Flight

Your charter flight from Punta Arenas to the Chilean Base on King George Island is operated by Aerovias DAP, with more than 25 years experience operating in Patagonia and Antarctica.

The BAE-146 aircraft is manufactured in the United Kingdom. The high wing design enables very short runway requirements, making it ideal for use in Antarctica. For an extra level of comfort, you can purchase Preferred Seats on your Antarctic flight. The Preferred Seating zone features all window and aisle seats with middle seats blocked.

Your Itinerary

Day 1 | Arrive Punta Arenas

An early flight from Santiago will arrive in Punta Arenas by mid-day. Upon arrival, you will be met and transferred to your hotel. There is a mandatory afternoon briefing planned to meet your expedition staff and fellow travelers.

Accommodations: Hotel Cabo de Hornos

Days 2 | Fly to King George Island and Embarkation

After breakfast, you’ll transfer to the airport for your charter flight to King George Island. Upon arrival, you’ll have an opportunity to explore the area surrounding Chile’s Frei Station and Russia’s Bellingshausen station before boarding a Zodiac to board the ship.

Accommodations: Magellan Explorer, BLD

Days 3 - 6 | Antarctica

You’ll 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 opportunity to observe sea birds, penguins, seals and whales. Each day, you’ll disembark by Zodiac and explore the landscape together with expert polar guides. Aboard the ship, you’ll enjoy an engaging program of lectures and presentations, as well as spectacular views from the lounge while sharing your daily adventures with fellow guests.

No journey is ever the same, as itineraries are frequently shaped by weather, sea and ice conditions, as well as animal sightings. Flexibility is the key to success in Antarctica. The expedition team sets the voyage route to take advantage of the ever-changing opportunities provided by nature, crafting a unique and extraordinary experience each time. While the exact itinerary changes with each expedition, you will explore several spots that offer the best possible overview of the varied Antarctic environment. Your voyage may include visits to sites such as Paulet Island, Hope Bay, Port Lockroy, Petermann Island, Paradise Bay, Deception Island, the Lemaire Channel, or many other magnificent places.

Accommodations: Magellan Explorer, BLD

Day 7 | Return to Punta Arenas

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

Accommodations: Hotel Cabo de Hornos, B

Day 8 | Depart Punta Arenas

After breakfast, you'll be transferred to the airport for your return flight to Santiago or onward adventures.

Extend Your Stay

Santiago Overnight Stay

A one night stay may be required to facilitate flight connections to or from Punta Arenas. An overnight stay package will include roundtrip private airport transfers, one night’s accommodations, and a walking tour of the city’s iconic sights.

Discover Santiago

This two-night / three-day extension combines the best of Santiago with a day out in the Casablanca wine region to enjoy fine wines and delicious food. Roundtrip transfers, private guide and driver are included.

Patagonia’s Torres del Paine National Park

Explore iconic Torres del Paine National Park on foot and horseback with magnificent scenery and fine lodging at one of several luxury lodges.

Dates and Prices

All prices are per person, double occupancy unless otherwise specified.

Sea kayaking: $995 per person. Must be reserved at time of booking. Limited Availability. Prior experience required
Charter flight preferred seating: $495 per person.

Deposit, Payment & Cancellation Schedule

Deposit

• A non-refundable deposit of $4000 per person is due at time of booking

Payment

• The balance is due 120 days before departure

• Any additional arrangements may incur further deposits, due at time of booking those services

Cancellation

• Up to 180 days before departure – 50% of the deposit is forfeited

• 179 to 121 days before departure - 100% of the deposit is forfeited

• 120 days or less before departure – The full trip price is forfeited

• Cancellation due to force majeure (circumstances outside your control, including medical illness) must be covered by travel insurance. INCA/Inca Floats, Inc. will not be responsible.

Frequently Asked Questions

When is the best time to go?

The Antarctic season runs from late November through early March, with the best weather during December, January and February, which also coincides with breeding season for most penguin species.  Of course weather in Antarctica can be unpredictable, but routes are flexible to maximize your time at the destination.

What will I will see? 

Entering Antarctic waters, whales abound with the possibility of sighting Orca, Southern Right, Minke, Humpback, and if you're lucky, Blue and Sperm whales. While in Antarctica, you’ll likely see colonies of Gentoo penguins as well as Adelie and Chinstrap. You’ll also likely encounter fur seals as well as Weddell, Crabeater and Leopard seals, as well as a colony of Southern Elephant seals at Deception island.

How can I be sure this is the right trip for me?

Antarctica is the trip of a lifetime. Shore excursions are designed for anyone with reasonable mobility.  Walks with small uphill sections are optional, but a reasonable level of fitness will guarantee greater enjoyment. For the more active, sea-kayaking is also available.

Are the ships wheelchair Accessible?

Unfortunately, no, our ships are not built to be wheelchair accessible. There is an elevator that services all floors, but due to weather and sea conditions, it is not operational at all times.

How cold will be be inside the ship?

Not cold at all! The entire ship is climate-controlled for your comfort, and all cabins feature individual temperature controls.

Do you offer triples or quads?

We do have some suites that are designated Triples. In addition, most suites feature a sofa that can convert to a 3rd berth, suitable for guests up to 5’10” in height. We do not have quad suites.

Will my cabin have portholes or windows?

Only cabins designated as “Porthole Cabin” have portholes. All other accommodations have windows.

Can I smoke on board?

Smoking is only allowed on board ship in very limited designated smoking areas outside. Smoking is not allowed anywhere else on board the ship, including in your cabin. Please never throw anything overboard, including cigarette butts or ashes. It is imperative we respect the environment and leave it as untouched as possible.

Are there laundry facilities available on board?

Yes. Laundry service is available on board; however, there are no dry cleaning facilities.

Is there a gym or spa on board?

There is a dedicated gym and sauna available for guest use.

Can you accommodate special dietary restrictions?

Most dietary requests such as low salt, gluten-free, and low cholesterol are easily accommodated. All meals include vegetarian, meat, and fish options. If you have a specific dietary concern, please let us know.  Please note Kosher and strict vegan meals are not available.

Is there internet access?

Yes. A wireless network is accessible from your personal computer or smartphone from virtually anywhere on board. Satellite based internet access is available for purchase, however due to the ship’s remote location, it may not be available at all times and speeds may be limited.

What type of electrical outlets are on board?

Electric outlets on board are 220V/50Hz, and are equipped with standard U.S. two-pin system, 2-prong plug or Euro-plug and USB port. Please bring with you the necessary converters and adapters.

Will I be able to use my cell phone during the voyage?

It is highly unlikely that you will have cellular service once you leave Chile. There is a telephone in your cabin, which has access to a satellite-based outside line; however, there may be times when phone service is limited or unavailable.

Will I be able to purchase extra batteries or flash cards on board?

While you may find the batteries or flash cards you need in stock in our Gift Shop, we strongly recommend that you bring extra supplies of everything, (including an extra charger) as availability of these items is very limited, and cannot be guaranteed.

Can I send postcards from either the ship or Antarctica?

Some of the bases that we may visit on your voyage offer postal service, but we can’t guarantee we’ll get to one.  Your expedition leader will let you know if you’re visiting a base that offers post, and how you can send mail.  In some places you may need cash, usually US Dollars or Euros.  You can always send postcards once back in Punta Arenas.

Is there a doctor on board the ship?

Every voyage has a currently-practicing and English-speaking doctor experienced in Emergency medicine.  Medical services are available 24 hours a day, and a doctor accompanies passengers on all shore landings.

What medical facilities are available on the ship?

There is a medical clinic, stocked with common basic medications, including seasickness medication.

What happens in case of a serious medical problem?

In the unfortunate event of a serious medical problem, the ship’s doctor will take every possible step to stabilize the patient, who can then be evacuated to the nearest facility or airfield; either Ushuaia, Stanley, or King George Island, for more comprehensive diagnosis and treatment. Please be aware that there are limits to what ship’s physicians can treat and evacuations in this remote area may be lengthy.

What if I have a pre-existing medical condition?

All guests are required to complete a medical questionnaire that is reviewed by our Medical staff who will contact your agent if they foresee any difficulties with the safety of your voyage. Medical information is kept on board for reference in the event of a medical problem.

For passengers that do have significant medical issues/problems, we recommend that you visit your physician to obtain the doctor’s “fit to travel” stamp of approval. As your embarkation date approaches, don’t hesitate to re-check with your doctor if there has been a change in your medical issues. It’s always a good idea to bring duplicate supplies of all your medications and necessary medical supplies.

Is there a fee for medical services?

There is generally no charge to guests for medical consultations, rendered care, or dispensed medical supplies. The only exceptions are rare cases in which very involved, “Intensive Care” levels of treatment are required.

What will the weather be like on my trip?

Weather in Antarctica can be very unpredictable, and we don’t get the same type of forecasts that we’re used to in most other parts of the world.  We get information about general conditions and trends in the areas we visit, and we make our own forecasts in real time based on the data we have in the moment. Average temperatures in Antarctica during our sailing season is between -5 C (23 F) and 5 C (41 F).

Do you require insurance?

Yes. All guests must carry a travel protection plan that covers personal injury, medical expenses, repatriation expenses, evacuation expenses, and pre-existing medical conditions. Additionally, guests are strongly advised to purchase coverage for cancellation, curtailment, trip interruption, and all other expenses which might arise as a result of loss, damage, injury, delay or inconvenience occurring to or otherwise involving a guest. As any potential evacuation from Antarctica can cost up to $150,000 we recommend that no policy carry less than this amount of coverage. INCA offers a number of policies and plans that should cover your needs. Ask us for details.

What specific clothing, shoes, or gear do I need?

Dress on board the ships is casual and informal at all times. The best clothing is a layered system with an outer layer that is waterproof. The air between the layers provides additional insulation.

• Base Layer – Thermal underwear and a pair of thermal socks.

• Mid Layer – Pants (fleece is ideal), a light cotton shirt, and a fleece.

• Outer Layer – Waterproof pants and a waterproof jacket.
  Waterproof pants are required to participate in landings.
  Note: Lightweight disposable rain gear will not endure more than one landing, so please bring high quality, expedition-weight waterproof pants.

• Shoes – Sturdy walking shoes or sneakers with a good grip sole for the slippery deck, and the rubber boots we provide.

We strongly encourage you to purchase high quality gear so that your enjoyment is not impacted..

Do I need my own waterproof jacket and boots?

A waterproof jacket or outer shell is strongly recommended due to sea spray and variable weather conditions.

Insulated rubber boots will be available for use during the voyage. They are great for getting in and out of Zodiacs and are plenty warm with a good pair of thermal or wool socks.

Do I need trekking poles?

We do have a limited number of trekking poles on board, but if you are more comfortable with your own, please feel free to bring them.

Do I need to bring my own soap and shampoo?

No. Toiletries are provided on board.

Should I bring my personal computer?

This is entirely up to you. If you wish to have access to the internet from anywhere other than the Library, you will need a computer or mobile device such as a smartphone or tablet. Some guests also find it useful to have their computers on hand for photography storage and backup. If you do choose to bring a laptop, please be sure to take the necessary precautions to protect it from the elements.

What type of camera equipment should I bring?

A detailed photography guide will be provided as part of your pre-cruise documentation

Can I bring my unmanned aerial vehicle (Drone)?

No. The recreational use of Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAV) or drone type aircraft in the Antarctic is currently prohibited by the International Association of Antarctic Tour Operators (IAATO). Because IAATO recognizes the value of UAVs for certain commercial and scientific applications, the expedition team is currently permitted for the commercial use of UAVs by trained members. Individual permits are not possible, and personal drones are strictly prohibited.

Will I need cash on board?

No. All shipboard charges will be charged to an account, so you do not need to pay cash as you go. At the end of your voyage, you may pay your tab with cash or credit card; Visa, MasterCard, or American Express are accepted. All prices on board are shown in US Dollars.

Always be sure to carry a small amount of cash, local and US or Euro, to cover taxis, and other incidentals, which may not be payable by credit card.