Classic Antarctica Air-Cruise

The favored itinerary among the Antarctica expeditions is the Classic Antarctica air-cruise. Upon reaching Antarctica via flight, your journey will take you through the South Shetland Islands and along the western coast of the Antarctic Peninsula. Revel in the breathtaking sights of ice-laden fjords and magnificent icebergs, all while encountering the diverse wildlife inhabitants, including penguins, seals, and whales, that inhabit the pristine White Continent. The Classic Antarctica air-cruise is offered on all the expedition ships.

8 Day Antarctica Itinerary

Day 1: Chile: Punta Arenas

Arrive in Punta Arenas, Chile, by 2 PM to a warm reception from staff. After being transported to your hotel, join a mandatory briefing at Explorers House in the afternoon. This session imparts crucial information about your air-cruise and outlines essential guidelines for Antarctic visitors. Conclude the day with a welcome dinner, where you can mingle with fellow adventurers over a traditional regional menu.

Day 2: South Shetland Islands: King George Island

Upon reaching King George Island in the South Shetland Islands, the pristine Antarctic air greets you as you disembark from the airplane. A 2-km (1.25-mile) walk awaits, taking you past Chile's Frei Station and Russia's Bellingshausen Station, ultimately leading to the shore. There, you'll board a Zodiac, which will transport you to your exclusive expedition vessel for a boutique Antarctic experience.

Day 3, 4, 5 & 6: South Shetland Islands, Antarctic Sound & Gerlache Strait

Embark on a cruise between the South Shetland Islands and the western coast of the Antarctic Peninsula, navigating through ice-filled fjords and breathtaking icebergs. Delight in the presence of seabirds, penguins, seals, and whales. Daily Zodiac landings with expert polar guides allow you to explore diverse landscapes. Onboard, participate in educational presentations, savor stunning views from the lounge, and share daily adventures with fellow guests. Antarctica's dynamic nature dictates a flexible itinerary, ensuring a unique and extraordinary experience. The Expedition Team strategically plans the route to capitalize on evolving natural opportunities, offering a comprehensive exploration of sites like the South Shetland Islands, Antarctic Sound, Gerlache Strait, and Penola Strait.

Day 7: King George Island

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 the night. (Note: Meals in Punta Arenas are at your leisure and not included in the program).

Day 8: Punta Arenas

After breakfast, transfer to the Punta Arenas airport for your onward flight.

8 Day Antarctica Itinerary Includes

Comprehensive material containing information before and after the journey.

Exclusive entry to Explorers House granted to Punta Arenas guests.

The provision of waterproof boots for shore excursions, charges for landings, a contingency plan, and the IAATO passenger fee.

Daily buffet-style breakfast, along with à la carte lunch and dinner options, inclusive of beverages such as wine, beer, juice, soft drinks, coffee, tea, chocolate, cappuccino, water, and onboard snacks.

Included in the package are guided shore excursions, along with onboard lectures and entertainment.

8 Day Antarctica Itinerary Does not Include

Beverages purchased at the ship’s bar.

Internet connection on board the ship.

Personal travel insurance.

Extra expenses (communication, laundry, souvenirs, etc.).

Gratuities

Visas for Chile and/or Argentina, passport expenses, and any arrival and/or departure tax, if applicable.

Accommodation, meals, excursions, and transfers other than those included in the itinerary and the Contingency Plan corresponding to each voyage. Specifically, dinner in Punta Arenas upon return from Antarctica is not included.

8 Day Antarctica cruise activities

Under full instruction from your sea kayaking guide, experience true tranquillity as you paddle through clinking ice floes and realise the enormity of the surrounding scenery. Look out for breaching whales, lounging seals and penguins zipping alongside your kayak. Some experience is required.

Camp out on the ice and experience the silence which blankets the continent by night. This is your chance to completely connect with this ethereal ice world – wrap up warm and embrace the Antarctic elements.

Get a spring in your step when you slip on a pair of snowshoes in Antarctica. Enabling you to easily scale gentle slopes, this unique activity allows you to access hard to reach places and seek out the most impressive views.

Learn to capture wildlife and landscape shots in a small group photography program, including critiquing sessions and editing classes. Plus, Explorer Boat excursions with a dedicated photography expert on landings.

Achieve the best views and photographs from a forward facing Explorer Boats. They allow you to sit comfortably and securely while crackling through the ice-strewn waters. Look out for wildlife such as penguins, seals and whales as you cruise.

It doesn’t get more serene than complimentary yoga classes to the tune of glacial scenery. Join the most unique exercise setting in the world after a day of exploration. Classes are regular but are dependent on weather conditions and swell.