Fly over the Drake Passage from Punta Arenas in southern Chile, for an epic expedition adventure, aerial sea views and saving sailing time.
Flying from Punta Arenas in southern Chile over Cape Horn and thus avoiding the sometimes rough waters of the Drake Passage, this is the easiest way to travel to Antarctica – the coldest, highest, windiest, driest and least inhabited continent on earth – reaching King George Island, the largest island in the South Shetlands in under two hours. By retracing this route on the return journey you avoid two days of sailing each way, ensuring you experience only the best of the White Continent.
You then sail southward along the west coast of the Antarctic Peninsula, with plenty of stops and landings along the way. This active adventure involves daily landings by Zodiac inflatable, and a full programme of lectures on board ship, assisted all the while by experienced crew and knowledgeable expedition staff.
A typical Classic Antarctic Fly-Sail itinerary is shown below, however we offer a variety of vessels and durations.
Note: There is also the option to fly over the Drake Passage in one direction only, and sail the other. Please contact us for further details.
Typical Itinerary
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Day 1:
Arrive Punta Arenas & overnight
Arrive in Punta Arenas, where you will be met and transferred to your hotel. In the afternoon there will be a briefing for your voyage and essential guidelines for Antarctic visitors. Later, you will gather for a welcome dinner and meet your fellow adventurers while enjoying a typical regional menu.
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Day 2:
Fly to King George Island in the South Shetlands & board vessel
Fly to King George Island (approx one and a half hours) in the South Shetlands; visit the Chilean Antarctic mission's Frei Base and board your vessel.
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Days 3-6
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Sail to the Antarctic Peninsula
You will 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, you can disembark by Zodiac and explore the landscape together with expert polar guides. On board the ship, you are free to attend an engaging program of lectures and presentations, and enjoy spectacular vistas from the glass-enclosed lounge while sharing your daily adventures with fellow guests.
No journey is the same as 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 this varied Antarctic environment. Your voyage may include visits to sites such as the South Shetland Islands, the Antarctic Sound, the Gerlache Strait and the Penola Strait.
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Day 7:
Disembark at King George Island & fly to Punta Arenas
Return to King George Island and bid farewell to Antarctica before boarding the flight back to Punta Arenas. Upon arrival, transfer to your hotel for an overnight stay.
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Day 8:
Depart Punta Arenas
After breakfast, transfer to the Punta Arenas airport for your onward flight.
Please note: Exact itinerary and duration will depend on your chosen vessel, departure date and local conditions. Additional adventure activities are not available on every vessel and may incur an additional cost.
OPTIONAL EXTENSIONS
To enhance your Antarctic adventure, why not extend your journey and discover more of South America’s natural and cultural wonders? Soak up the vibrant energy of
Buenos Aires, feel the spray of the mighty
Iguazú Falls, or explore the windswept wilderness of Patagonia. You could search for elusive pumas in
Torres del Paine or embark on a self-drive adventure through jaw-dropping Andean landscapes.
Ask us for ideas or more information on how to make the most of your time in the region.
LUXURY VESSEL
LUXURY VESSEL
LUXURY VESSEL
