This 'fly-sail' itinerary offers an unrivalled exploration of Antarctica and aims to travel as far south as possible, crossing the Antarctic Circle.
This epic Antarctic expedition flys over the Drake Passage from Punta Arenas in southern Chile to King George Island in the South Shetlands, saving around four days sailing time. 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.
Boarding your expedition cruise vessel, you then sail southward along the west coast of the Antarctic Peninsula, with plenty of stops and landings along the way, to cross the Antarctic Circle. This active adventure involves daily landings by Zodiac cruise, and a full programme of lectures on board, assisted all the while by experienced crew and knowledgeable expedition staff.
A typical Polar Circle itinerary is shown below.
Note that some trips will fly over Drake Passage in one direction only (and sail the other).
Typical Itinerary
Day1: Arrive Punta Arenas, overnight
Day2: Fly to King George Island in the South Shetlands & board vessel
Fly to King George Island (approx two hours) in the South Shetland Islands. After landing, make your way to the shore, before being transferred by Zodiac to your ship to set sail for the Antarctic Peninsula!
Days3-8: Sail from the South Shetland Islands down western coast of the Antarctic Peninsula
Sail from the South Shetland Islands down the western coast of the Antarctic Peninsula, passing through ice-filled fjords past spectacular icebergs in the company of sea birds, penguins, seals and whales. Visit some of the most magnificent spots in the white continent, such as: Cierva Cove, Port Lockroy, Petermann Island, Paradise Bay, Lemaire Channel, Prospect and Fish Islands amongst others. The highlight of your trip is attempting to cross the Polar Circle at latitude 66 33' South, with a champagne toast to celebrate the occasion. This is an active adventure with several daily landings and cruises in Zodiac boats, lectures and a fun time on board.
Day9: Disembark at King George Island & fly to Punta Arenas
Please note: Exact itinerary and duration will depend on your chosen vessel, departure date and local conditions.
Key info
Duration and price excluding international flights: 9-11 daysfrom £14,700 ppGreg Mortimer: from £15,080 pp
Ocean Nova: from £15,160 pp
Ocean Explorer: £18,300 pp
Magellan Explorer: from £18,385 pp
The Antarctic Peninsula is the most accessible part of the great white continent with some of its best wildlife and scenery. Ice-choked waterways, sculpted icebergs, imposing glaciers and rugged mountains provide the backdrop to an area with more whales and dolphins than anywhere else on earth.
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Ideal for viewing: humpback whale, minke whale, orca, South polar skua, Adélie penguin
The Lemaire Channel is an 11 kilometre strait off Antarctica leading to a jigsaw of jewel like islands. Filled with icebergs and hemmed in by steep glacial cliffs, the waters are calm and passing through it makes for an unforgettably scenic journey, upon which orca or humpback whales may be seen.
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The South Shetland Islands are situated north of the Antarctic Peninsula. Most of the land is permanently glaciated yet, despite the harsh conditions, the islands do support a large variety of seals, penguins – including Adelie and chinstrap - and seabirds – including Antarctic terns and giant petrels.
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Ideal for viewing: Adélie penguin, elephant seal, chinstrap penguin, gentoo penguin, southern right whale
Paradise Harbour is surrounded by heavily glaciated mountains and ice cliffs, which protect and shield this part of the bay and reflect in the ice-cold waters. Its mind-boggling array of icebergs are a highlight, enhancing the wildlife viewing experience which includes whales and abundant birdlife.
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The Greg Mortimer introduces an exciting new generation of ship for cruising in the Polar regions. Purpose-built for expedition cruising with a uniquely designed ice-strengthened hull to provide a more comfortable voyage, this small ship can venture into remote areas that larger vessels cannot reach.
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The Magellan Explorer journeys to remote and spectacular destinations in Antarctica. Purpose-built, its modern design and innovative technologies include an accessible bow which allows guests near the water level for exceptional photographic and wildlife viewing opportunities.
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The Ocean Explorer is modern, elegant, and purpose-built for polar exploration. It features spacious and luxurious cabins, ample outdoor viewing areas, and the latest sustainability technology. The ship offers a luxurious and comfortable sailing experience, allowing you to intimately connect with the polar wilderness.
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An extremely comfortable and well-equipped Polar expedition vessel, Ocean Nova is one of the leading vessels classified to operate in ice-filled waters. Accommodating around 60 passengers, cabins are outside facing and there is an excellent glass-enclosed forward observation lounge on the top deck.
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