On this 10-day Polar Circle Air Cruise roundtrip Punta Arenas aboard the Magellan Discoverer, reach the Antarctic Polar Circle at 66° south. In Punta Arenas, Chile, you attend a briefing and enjoy a welcome dinner before flying to King George Island. Here, you board a Zodiac to reach your expedition vessel and begin exploring fjords, icebergs, and wildlife-rich coasts. Over six days, you sail through the South Shetland Islands and Antarctic Peninsula, participating in Zodiac excursions, guided hikes, and engaging presentations by polar experts. The flexible itinerary aims to sail south toward the Polar Circle, adapting to nature’s conditions. The trip concludes with a flight back to Punta Arenas, offering an Antarctic adventure.
Highlights
Fly from Punta Arenas, Chile, to King George Island, bypassing the Drake Passage
Spot penguins, seals, and seabirds while exploring the Antarctic Peninsula
Guided Zodiac trips and shore landings, offering breathtaking landscapes
Attend expert-led presentations, learn about Antarctica’s history and wildlife
Activity options vary depending on destination and operator. Activity level is determined by the range and intensity of activities you choose to participate in. Discuss with your Trip Planner which options are best for you.
Arrive in Punta Arenas, Chile, and transfer to your hotel. Attend an important briefing covering details of your Antarctic journey and essential visitor guidelines. In the evening, enjoy a welcome dinner featuring local cuisine while getting to know your fellow travelers from around the globe.
Please note: Passengers must be at their hotel in Punta Arenas no later than 2 PM. Weather at King George Island will drive the overall schedule of this trip, so there's a slight chance you might fly to Antarctica this evening!
A two-hour flight seamlessly transports you from Punta Arenas to King George Island in the South Shetland Islands. Upon arrival, breathe in the crisp Antarctic air as your adventure begins. Explore the vicinity of Chile’s Frei Station and Russia’s Bellingshausen Station before boarding a Zodiac to join your expedition vessel and set sail.
Please note:Flexibility is key to any successful Antarctic adventure, particularly a fly cruise. If the weather at King George Island does not allow for flights this morning, the ship operator will follow their well-established contingency plan, which can be read here. On average, about 85% of flights occur on this day, as scheduled. But travelers should be aware of the contingencies that Antarctica21 has developed over its two decades of providing fly cruises.
Day 3-8: South Shetland Islands & Antarctic Peninsula
Navigate ice-filled fjords and glide among magnificent icebergs, sharing the waters with seabirds, penguins, seals, and whales. Explore the South Shetland Islands and the western Antarctic Peninsula with daily Zodiac excursions, complemented by guided hikes to remarkable locations otherwise unreachable. Expert polar guides enrich the experience with captivating presentations, offering insights into wildlife, history, and the wonders of the icy landscape. Unwind in the glass-enclosed lounge, reliving the day's adventures with fellow travelers as you take in breathtaking views.
The expedition’s ultimate goal is to venture far south, striving to reach the Antarctic Polar Circle. The route is crafted dynamically by the Expedition Team, adapting to local conditions and seizing unique opportunities presented by nature. Possible destinations include iconic sites like Port Lockroy, Petermann Island, Paradise Bay, the Lemaire Channel, and Prospect Point. Every voyage is tailored to offer a comprehensive glimpse into the diverse and awe-inspiring Antarctic environment.
Day 9: Disembark at King George Island | Fly to Punta Arenas, Chile
Upon returning to King George Island, you say goodbye to Antarctica and board your flight back to Punta Arenas. After landing, transfer to your hotel for an overnight stay. Evening meals are not included in the program, giving you the freedom to explore local dining options at your leisure.
Please note: If the weather at King George Island does not allow for flights this morning, the ship operator will follow their well-established contingency plan, again.
Day 10: Return Home
1 Breakfast
Following breakfast, you are transferred to Punta Arenas airport to catch your onward flight.
Please note: Flights arranged for later in the day provide more buffer against any of those potential flight delays out of King George Island.
Apologies for the inconvenience. Prices for not yet published. Below per person rate based on previous season. Contact us to confirm upcoming season pricing.
Prices for are estimated based on inflation. Contact us to confirm pricing and availability for your desired departure date.
Initial deposit is $4000 plus the adventure activities must be paid in full at the time of booking., and most travelers will call our office and pay the deposit with a credit card.
Final payment is due 130 days prior to departure by bank transfer, check or credit card. All final payments by credit card may be subject to a surcharge and maximum of $20,000 charge
For full cancellation policy details, please contact us for a quote.
Included
9 Breakfasts, 8 Lunches, 8 Dinners
9 Nights Accommodations
Accommodations as listed
Ground transportation as listed
Activities as listed
Meals as listed
Access to a 24-7 Emergency line while traveling
Wine, beer, juice, and soft drinks served with lunch and dinner on board ship
Coffee, tea, chocolate, cappuccino, water and snacks on board ship throughout the expedition
IAATO passenger fee
Loan of Waterproof Boots for Landings
Comprehensive Pre- and Post-voyage Information Materials
Lectures and entertainment onboard.
Daily buffet breakfast and lunch on board the ship offering a wide choice of dishes.
Dinner served daily on board the ship offering a choice between one of three main courses.
All guided shore excursions.
Standard internet service is provided on a complimentary basis. Guests booked in Penthouse Suites on Magellan Explorer and
Grand Veranda Suites on Magellan Discoverer enjoy complimentary premium internet service
Group transfers from the airport and hotel on day one for guests arriving in Punta Arenas and from the hotel to the airport on the last day of the air-cruise itinerary.
Two nights stay with breakfast in Punta Arenas at the Cabo de Hornos Hotel or similar on day one and on the day of the scheduled return flight from Antarctica.
Welcome dinner on day one at the hotel in Punta Arenas.
Special access to Explorers House for guests in Punta Arenas.
Ship cruise and flight from Punta Arenas, Chile, to King George Island, Antarctica, and/or vice versa as indicated in the program corresponding to each air-cruise itinerary.
Excluded
Gratuities
Travel Insurance
Personal Expenses
Flight costs (please request a quote)
Additional excursions during free time
Fuel and transportation surcharges (when applicable)
Passport and Applicable Visa Expenses
Beverages purchased at the bar
All participants in an Antarctica 21 expedition are required to have a travel insurance policy. A comprehensive policy is recommended but, at a minimum, Medical Evacuation coverage up to $100,000 USD is required.
Kayaking option should be booked upon reservation (10 spots available for 2024/25 season and 20 spots for the 2025/26 season)
Hiking & Snowshoeing Option (Booked and paid on board)
Beyond expectations! Then again we weren't sure what to expect. Lovely stay at the lodge, met other like-minded travelers (many had their trips planned by Adventure Life) and the owner was a gracious hostess. It felt like you were one happy family, visiting with a favorite aunt.
Adventure Life has a great team. They were very knowledgeable and responsive and helped us choose the right Arctic Expedition for us. We would recommend them.
Kbear
5 months ago
Friendly representative, ease of booking and bountiful information along the way.
Gary Brodarick
6 months ago
Erin was really helpful during the booking process! She met with me, answered all my questions and made the booking process really easy!
Adrianne Trogden
8 months ago
This was a life changing trip of a lifetime and exceeded my expectations. No details were left out during the planning of this trip by Adventure Life. The entire crew on the ship could not have been more helpful and kind. Everyone went out of their way to make this trip as pleasurable as possible.