Antarctica
Visit Switzerland
Think of the classic winter sports scene, high mountains, tradition, luxury and class. You’re thinking of Switzerland. With its reputation as the most luxurious skiing in Europe, and perhaps the world, Switzerland can also be very affordable. We offer lodging and packages in all major ski resorts in this Alpine country proud of its unique nature and cultural diversity. It is never too early to start planning your adventure; especially since most of these amazing packages sell out quickly. Contact an experienced Team Alpine member today.
Recommended destinations in Switzerland
Activities
Skiing
Snowboarding
First Tracks
Glacier Express (Scenic Train)
Snowshoeing
Cross-Country Skiing
Igloo Experience
Skiing in the light of the full moon
Tubing
Ice Skating
Heli-skiing
Snowmobiling
Adventure with sled dogs
Winter Kayaking
Tracking ibex and golden eagles
Ice Fishing
Glacier Palace
Ski Biking
The Glacier Express is considered as one of the most impressive train rides in the world.
OPTIONAL EXTRAS
The Program
The sea kayaking program offered by Antarctica21 is a small-group experience limited to a maximum of 10 participants, under the guidance and leadership of an experienced Kayak Master.
Every day you are in Antarctica, your Kayak Master will work with the Expedition Team to look for the best kayaking opportunities within the trip’s schedule, based on suitable and safe weather conditions. The group will be supported by a dedicated safety Zodiac. Each kayaking excursion will be approximately one
and a half hours in duration. At the end of the excursion, the Kayak Master will strive to offer the group some time at the landing site so you can explore.
To take part in the kayaking program you must have previous kayaking experience and must know how to swim. The minimum age for participation is 16 years.
Dates, Prices, and Conditions
The per-person participation price is $895 USD. The sea kayaking option is available on all air-cruises, except the Antarctica Express Air-Cruises. Payment of the participation fee is due at time of reservation. In the case of cancellation 120 days or more prior to departure, Antarctica21 will refund 50% of the participation fee. In the case of cancellation 119 days or less prior to departure, there will be no refund.
For complete details please review the “Sea Kayaking in Antarctica Terms and Conditions” document, which is available upon request.
Hiking and Snowshoeing in Antarctica
See more of the Antarctic landscape with our hiking and snowshoeing program. Excursion locations are selected for their scenic appeal and will provide unique vantage points for your photographs. Depending on the conditions of the terrain, some excursions may require the use of snowshoes and/or trekking poles, which are provided by Antarctica21.
The Program
The hiking and snowshoeing program offered by Antarctica21 is a small-group experience led by a Hiking and Snowshoeing Guide.
Every day you are in Antarctica your Hiking and Snowshoeing Guide will work with the Expedition Leader to look for the best hiking or snowshoeing opportunities within the trip’s schedule, based on suitable and safe weather conditions. Each excursion will be approximately one and a half hours in duration. Participants can select the excursions they want to join, paying a per-excursion fee.
To take part in the hiking and snowshoeing program you do not need previous experience. However, your level of physical fitness should be good. The minimum age for participation is 12 years.
Dates, Prices, and Conditions
The per-person participation price is $ 85 USD per excursion. The hiking and snowshoeing option are available on most departures. Excursions can be booked and paid onboard the ship.
For complete details please review the “Hiking and Snowshoeing Terms and Conditions” document, which is available upon request.
The package includes accommodation at the Cabo de Hornos Hotel or similar and combines perfectly with your Antarctic air-cruise. With a single check-in, you will ensure that the hotel room for your extra night in Punta Arenas is the same as that included in your air-cruise itinerary.
The package is available pre-expedition and post-expedition and includes:
- Dedicated group airport transfers
- 1 night hotel accommodation
- Breakfast
- Drink voucher
This option offers you a guaranteed aisle or window seat at the front of the aircraft and a guaranteed empty middle seat. It also offers you priority boarding in Punta Arenas and an amenities kit. Please note that due to the nature of the operation in Antarctica, priority boarding is not available on the return flight.
Capacity is limited to rows 2, 3, 4, and 5 of the aircraft.
PER-PERSON PRICE:
Classic Antarctica Air-Cruises (round-trip): $495 USD
Polar Circle Air-Cruises (round-trip): $495 USD
All other itineraries (one-way): $245 USD
In the case of cancellation 120 days or more prior to departure, Antarctica21 will refund 50% of the price paid. In the case of cancellation 119 days or less prior to departure, there will be no refund.
This Antarctica21-branded BR2 Offshore Waterproof Jackets by MUSTO is breathable and features double cuffs, an adjustable hem, a double storm flap with a drainage channel over the zip, a high collar, and a roll away fluorescent hood. The sleeves are articulated to allow complete freedom of movement. The fleece-lined collar, hood, and pockets add warmth, while the prismatic reflectors provide extra visibility. The jacket is an outer shell to be worn over a few layers of warm clothing.
PRICE: $349
Antarctica Express Air-Cruise
Your journey begins in Ushuaia, Argentina, at the pier. Board your ship in the afternoon and sail along the Beagle Channel towards Puerto Williams, Chile, the southernmost town in the world. Explore the surroundings before setting sail to Cape Horn.
After an overnight crossing of Nassau Bay, you awake in full view of legendary Cape Horn! Weather permitting, board a Zodiac, and be one of the few privileged adventurers to step foot on this famous and rarely visited island. Back on board, set sail towards Antarctica and cross the famous passage named in honor of Sir Francis Drake, the great 16th-century British explorer.
As you sail through the Drake Passage en route to King George Island, in the South Shetland Islands, attend an engaging program of lectures and presentations. In the company of expert guides, watch for wildlife from the lounge or from the outside decks. You may spot magnificent seabirds, such as albatrosses and petrels, as well as different species of whales on their way south to Antarctica.
After crossing the Antarctic Convergence, the environment changes noticeably. Keep your camera ready, as this is the time to watch for the first icebergs and the first sight of Antarctic land. Reaching the South Shetland Islands, sail in ice-filled bays while enjoying the company of seabirds, penguins, seals, and whales. Board a Zodiac for your first memorable shore visit to a penguin colony. Taking advantage of the endless Antarctic daylight, exploration will continue well into the evening.
Upon reaching King George Island, disembark at Fildes Bay. A 2-km (1.25-mi) walk takes you through Chile’s Frei Station and Russia’s Bellingshausen Station to the aircraft. Bid farewell to Antarctica as you board 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).
After breakfast, transfer to the Punta Arenas airport for your onward flight.
The January 2-8, 2021 (HEB06-AE) departure on board Hebridean Sky is a day longer and operates in reverse, with start in Punta Arenas and end in Ushuaia. An itinerary description is available on request.
Antarctica Express Air-Cruise
6 DAYS / 5 NIGHTS
Rates from $4,795
Introductory and affordable expedition experience. It combines visits to Cape Horn and Antarctica
Included in the Rate
- For air-cruises starting in Punta Arenas, group transfers to the airport/hotel on Day 1.
- For air-cruises starting in Punta Arenas, 1 overnight with breakfast in Punta Arenas at the Cabo de Hornos Hotel or similar, with a welcome dinner including drinks on Day 1.
- 1 overnight with breakfast in Punta Arenas at the Cabo de Hornos Hotel or similar on the Day of the Scheduled Return Flight from Antarctica.
- Group transfers to the airport/hotel on the Day of the Scheduled Return Flight from Antarctica, and group transfers to the hotel/airport on the last Day of the Air-Cruise.
- Flight from Punta Arenas to Frei Station on King George Island and/or vice versa as indicated in the program corresponding to each voyage.
- Ship cruise along the Antarctic Peninsula as indicated in the program corresponding to each voyage.
- Daily buffet breakfast and lunch on board ship offering a wide choice of dishes.
- Daily served dinner on board ship offering a choice of three main courses.
- 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.
- All guided shore excursions.
- Lectures and entertainment on board.
- Comprehensive pre- and post-voyage information material.
- Loan of waterproof boots for landing in Antarctica.
- Contingency Plan as described further on.
- IAATO passenger fee.
toggle dots below to see package exclusions
Specifically not Included in the Rate
- 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.
- Beverages purchased at the ship’s bar.
- 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.
toggle dots below to see package inclusions
Magellan Explorer
A new and modern expedition vessel custom-built for our Antarctic air-cruises.
Ocean Nova
A modern and comfortable expedition vessel.
Hebridean Sky
A a small, all-suite expedition vessel.
Antarctica and South Georgia Air-Cruise
The staff welcomes you in Punta Arenas, Chile, before 2 PM. Transfer to your hotel and attend a mandatory briefing. A welcome dinner introduces you to the local gastronomy as you meet fellow adventurers.
A two-hour flight takes you from Punta Arenas to King George Island, in the South Shetland Islands. A 2-km (1.25-mi) walk takes you to the shore where you board a Zodiac to embark your vessel.
Cruise between the South Shetland Islands and the western coast of the Antarctic Peninsula, sailing along ice-filled fjords and among spectacular icebergs. Each day, disembark by Zodiac and explore the landscape together with expert polar guides.
No journey is the same and flexibility is the key to success in Antarctica. The Expedition Team plans the voyage route to take advantage of the ever-changing opportunities provided by Nature. You will explore several spots in the Gerlache Strait that offer the best possible overview of the varied Antarctic environment.
Sailing north, we hope to stop at Elephant Island. It was here that the crew of Shackleton’s Endurance found refuge while he and five handpicked men carried on to South Georgia. While stormy conditions rarely allow a shore landing, you will see the island from the ship.
As we sail northward, our historian and our naturalists offer a series of presentations. There is time to socialize in the ship’s lounge while keeping an eye out for the region’s birdlife.
The island of South Georgia is a diverse landscape of majestic mountains, massive glaciers, grassy uplands, and deep fjords. Visit the former whaling outpost of Grytviken, where you may pay your respects at the simple grave of Ernest Shackleton. At St. Andrew’s Bay be overwhelmed by the sight of 150,000 king penguins. At Cooper Island, the nesting home of thousands of black-browed albatrosses, see a large colony of macaroni penguins. If the weather is favorable, visits are also planned at Fortuna Bay, Salisbury Plains, Prion Island, and Elsehul Bay.
As the ship heads to South America, the program of presentations continues. Use this time to enhance your understanding of the region and its history.
Approach South America and sail along the Beagle Channel. Take in the beauty of Tierra del Fuego and Navarino Island as you head to Ushuaia.
Arrival to Ushuaia, where your journey ends at the pier upon disembarkation.
Note: The February 25-March 12, 2021 (MAG23-AS) departure operates in reverse, with start in Punta Arenas and end in Ushuaia. An itinerary description is available on request.
Antarctica and South Georgia Air-Cruise
16 DAYS / 15 NIGHTS
Rates from $14,395
No journey is the same and flexibility is the key to success in Antarctica. The Expedition Team plans the voyage route to take advantage of the ever-changing opportunities provided by Nature. You will explore several spots in the Gerlache Strait that offer the best possible overview of the varied Antarctic environment.
While stormy conditions rarely allow a shore landing, you will see the Elephant Island from the ship.
The island of South Georgia is a diverse landscape of majestic mountains, massive glaciers, grassy uplands, and deep fjords.
Visit the former whaling outpost of Grytviken, where you may pay your respects at the simple grave of Ernest Shackleton.
At St. Andrew’s Bay be overwhelmed by the sight of 150,000 king penguins.
At Cooper Island, the nesting home of thousands of black-browed albatrosses, see a large colony of macaroni penguins.
If the weather is favorable, visits are also planned at Fortuna Bay, Salisbury Plains, Prion Island, and Elsehul Bay.
Sail along the Beagle Channel. Take in the beauty of Tierra del Fuego and Navarino Island as you head to Ushuaia.
Included in the Rate
- For air-cruises starting in Punta Arenas, group transfers to the airport/hotel on Day 1.
- For air-cruises starting in Punta Arenas, 1 overnight with breakfast in Punta Arenas at the Cabo de Hornos Hotel or similar, with a welcome dinner including drinks on Day 1.
- 1 overnight with breakfast in Punta Arenas at the Cabo de Hornos Hotel or similar on the Day of the Scheduled Return Flight from Antarctica.
- Group transfers to the airport/hotel on the Day of the Scheduled Return Flight from Antarctica, and group transfers to the hotel/airport on the last Day of the Air-Cruise.
- Flight from Punta Arenas to Frei Station on King George Island and/or vice versa as indicated in the program corresponding to each voyage.
- Ship cruise along the Antarctic Peninsula as indicated in the program corresponding to each voyage.
- Daily buffet breakfast and lunch on board ship offering a wide choice of dishes.
- Daily served dinner on board ship offering a choice of three main courses.
- 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.
- All guided shore excursions.
- Lectures and entertainment on board.
- Comprehensive pre- and post-voyage information material.
- Loan of waterproof boots for landing in Antarctica.
- Contingency Plan as described further on.
- IAATO passenger fee.
toggle dots below to see package exclusions
Specifically not Included in the Rate
- 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.
- Beverages purchased at the ship’s bar.
- 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.
toggle dots below to see package inclusions
Magellan Explorer
A new and modern expedition vessel custom-built for our Antarctic air-cruises.
Ocean Nova
A modern and comfortable expedition vessel.
Hebridean Sky
A a small, all-suite expedition vessel.
Polar Circle Air-Cruise
Antarctica21 staff welcomes you in Punta Arenas, Chile, before 2 PM. Transfer to your hotel and attend a mandatory briefing that provides important information about your voyage and reviews the essential guidelines for Antarctic visitors. A welcome dinner introduces you to the local gastronomy as you meet fellow adventurers from around the world.
A smooth two-hour flight takes you efficiently from Punta Arenas to King George Island, in the South Shetland Islands. Your Antarctic adventure begins as you exit the airplane and the clear Antarctic air fills your lungs for the first time. The 2-km (1.25-mi) walk to the shore, where you board a Zodiac to embark your expedition vessel, takes you through Chile’s Frei Station and Russia’s Bellingshausen Station.
Sail along ice-filled fjords and among spectacular icebergs, while enjoying the company of seabirds, penguins, seals and whales. Visit the South Shetland Islands and the western coast of the Antarctic Peninsula, disembarking by Zodiac each day. In small groups, hike to extraordinary sites and take part in exploratory Zodiac excursions to otherwise inaccessible areas.
Back at King George Island, bid farewell to Antarctica as you board the flight 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).
After breakfast, transfer to the Punta Arenas airport for your onward flight.
Polar Circle Air-Cruise
10 DAYS / 9 NIGHTS
Rates from $15,495
Our expert polar guides share their passion for Antarctica through an engaging program of illustrated presentations and lead you ashore to interpret the wildlife, the history and the many wonders of the Antarctic environment. From the glass-enclosed lounge, enjoy spectacular views while sharing your daily adventures with fellow guests over a drink. The goal of the expedition is to sail far south in the attempt of reaching the Polar Circle. The Expedition Team plans the specific voyage route based on local conditions and takes advantage of the ever-changing opportunities provided by Nature. Flexibility will be the key to a successful voyage. Your expedition may include visits to sites such as Port Lockroy, Petermann Island, Paradise Bay, the Lemaire Channel, Prospect Point, or other magnificent places. Each voyage is unique and each is crafted to provide the best possible overview of the varied Antarctic environment.
Included in the Rate
- For air-cruises starting in Punta Arenas, group transfers to the airport/hotel on Day 1.
- For air-cruises starting in Punta Arenas, 1 overnight with breakfast in Punta Arenas at the Cabo de Hornos Hotel or similar, with a welcome dinner including drinks on Day 1.
- 1 overnight with breakfast in Punta Arenas at the Cabo de Hornos Hotel or similar on the Day of the Scheduled Return Flight from Antarctica.
- Group transfers to the airport/hotel on the Day of the Scheduled Return Flight from Antarctica, and group transfers to the hotel/airport on the last Day of the Air-Cruise.
- Flight from Punta Arenas to Frei Station on King George Island and/or vice versa as indicated in the program corresponding to each voyage.
- Ship cruise along the Antarctic Peninsula as indicated in the program corresponding to each voyage.
- Daily buffet breakfast and lunch on board ship offering a wide choice of dishes.
- Daily served dinner on board ship offering a choice of three main courses.
- 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.
- All guided shore excursions.
- Lectures and entertainment on board.
- Comprehensive pre- and post-voyage information material.
- Loan of waterproof boots for landing in Antarctica.
- Contingency Plan as described further on.
- IAATO passenger fee.
toggle dots below to see package exclusions
Specifically not Included in the Rate
- 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.
- Beverages purchased at the ship’s bar.
- 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.
toggle dots below to see package inclusions
Magellan Explorer
A new and modern expedition vessel custom-built for our Antarctic air-cruises.
Ocean Nova
A modern and comfortable expedition vessel.
Hebridean Sky
A a small, all-suite expedition vessel.
Antarctica Cruise Ships and Aircraft
Antarctica Cruise Ships
Magellan Explorer is a new and modern expedition vessel custom-built for our Antarctic air-cruises.
For our air-cruises, Magellan Explorer has capacity for 73 passengers in seven categories of accommodation, including dedicated single cabins. All cabins except Porthole cabins feature private balconies. All double cabins except two have two twin beds that can be configured as one king-size bed. All cabins feature a wardrobe, individually controlled heating system, a sitting area, and a private bathroom with a shower.
The ship features an observation lounge and presentation room with state-of-the-art audiovisual equipment, a spacious and stylish dining room, a well-stocked bar, a library, a meeting room, a gym, a sauna, and a medical clinic. The forward-facing observation deck leads to the bow of the ship, which is accessible to guests to offer proximity to marine wildlife. The ship has a fleet of 10 Zodiac boats that are well suited for disembarking and wildlife watching.
The fitness center aboard Magellan Explorer has been designed and built by the professionals at Anytime Fitness, the world’s only fitness company with boutique gyms in all seven continents.
Magellan Explorer Specifications:
Passengers: 100 maximum
Expedition Staff & Crew: 60
Lifeboats: 2, fully enclosed, capacity of 160 (in addition to 8 life rafts, capacity of 160)
Length: 90.7 m
Breadth: 16.2 m Draft: 4.3 m
Propulsion: Diesel engines, 3,440 kW
Ice Class: LR PC6
Cruising Speed: 14 knots in open water
Ocean Nova is a modern and comfortable expedition vessel. She was built in Denmark in 1992 to sail the ice-choked waters of Greenland. She was fully refurbished in 2006 and has since benefitted from annual upgrades and improvements. Her ice-strengthened hull is ideally suited for expedition travel in Antarctica.
For our air-cruises, Ocean Nova has capacity for 67 passengers accommodated in comfortable outside cabins. The ship offers three categories of accommodation: dedicated Single Cabins, Twin Cabins, and Triple Cabins. All cabins feature a picture window, a writing desk with a chair, a wardrobe, individually controlled heating system, and a private bathroom with a shower.
In addition to a glass-enclosed observation lounge and presentation room, Ocean Nova also has a spacious dining room, a bar, a library, a small gym, and an infirmary. The ship has a fleet of 7 Zodiac boats that are well suited for disembarking and wildlife watching.
Ocean Nova Specifications:
Passengers 72 maximum
Expedition Staff & Crew: 46
Lifeboats: 2, fully enclosed, capacity of 110 (in addition to 4 life rafts, capacity of 100)
Length: 73.0 m
Breadth: 11.0 m
Draft: 3.7 m
Propulsion: Diesel engines, 2,000-horsepower
Ice Class: 1B, EO (Hull Ice 1A)
Cruising Speed: 12 knots in open water
Hebridean Sky is a small, all-suite expedition vessel. She was built in 1992 and refurbished in 2005. In 2016 the ship underwent an extensive, multimillion-dollar renovation that transformed it into one of the finest small-ships in the world.
For our air-cruises, Hebridean Sky accommodates 75 passengers. She offers an exclusive and stylish base for adventurous exploration in Antarctica. Suites in eight different categories of accommodation are spacious, with premium appointments throughout. Each Suite features a sitting area, a private bathroom, a picture window, and two twin beds that, on request, can be joined to form a queen-size bed (cabins 601 and 602 only offer a queen-size bed).
A number of Suites include private balconies. Triple cabins feature a sofa bed suitable for individuals who are no more than 1.70 m (5′ 6″) tall. Public areas include “The Club” lounge, a library, a presentation lounge with audio-visual facilities, a dining room, an outdoor cafe, a medical clinic, a wraparound deck, and an elevator serving all passenger decks. The ship has a fleet of 10 Zodiac boats.
Hebridean Sky Specifications:
Passengers: 100 maximum
Expedition Staff & Crew: 85
Lifeboats: 4 fully enclosed, capacity of 192
Length: 90.6 m
Breadth: 15.3 m
Draft: 5.14 m
Propulsion: 2 main engines – 3,520 kW
Ice Class: 1C
Cruising Speed: 12.5 knots in open water
Aircraft
The BAE 146 / AVRO RJ aircraft was manufactured in the United Kingdom by British Aerospace (which later became part of BAE Systems). It is a high-wing aircraft with very short runway requirements, which make it particularly suited for this kind of destination. It is operated by Aerovias DAP, which has more than 25 years of experience flying in Patagonia and Antarctica.
Preferred Seating
For an extra level of comfort, you can purchase Preferred Seats on your Antarctic flight.
Seating Category
Preferred – Reserved Seating
Economy – Open Seating
Seats not in use
BAE 146/AVRO RJ Aircraft Specifications:
Model: BAE 146-200 / AVRO RJ-85
Capacity: 75 passengers maximum
Engines: 4 turbofans Honeywell ALF 502R-5
Length: 93 ft. 8 in (28.55 m)
Cruise Speed: 465 mph (750 km/h)
Wingspan: 86 ft. 5 in (26.34 m)
Service Ceiling: 31,200 ft. (9,500 m)
Antarctica
There is still a place on Planet Earth that remains untouched, a continent of shocking beauty where Nature sets the rules:
Antarctica
To travel there is to encounter our planet in its purest, naked form. As visitors come face to face with Antarctica and feel its awesome power, these words are heard over and over again: “this is like another planet.”
Antarctica Cruises
Discover Antarctica
Visit the White Continent for a transformative, once-in-a-lifetime experience.
Landscape
Antarctica is a remote, magical place that will greet you with its awe-inspiring beauty. See peaceful bays dotted with colossal icebergs; cruise along deep fjords and see massive glaciers; be amazed by sharp snowy peaks that jut out of the sea.
Adventure
A journey like no other awaits in Antarctica. Cruise at sea level with our Zodiac boats and feel the spray of seawater on your cheeks. Follow in the footsteps of early explorers as you hike on Antarctic soil. Join our optional sea kayaking and hiking & snowshoeing programs.
Glory
Setting foot on the seventh continent is a privilege and an honor. You will bring home indelible memories and tales of your journey
will arouse the curiosity and admiration of your friends and family.
Wildlife
In the austral summer, large numbers of penguins, whales, seals, and seabirds congregate along the Antarctic Peninsula to feed and reproduce. Present in abundant numbers, these animals will provide endless inspiration for your photographs.
The Air-Cruise Model
Before, adventure travellers who wanted to reach the Antarctic Peninsula had only one option: to sail across the tempestuous Drake Passage. Since 2003, we have been offering you a more comfortable alternative.
Fly the Drake
Our two-hour flight takes you from Punta Arenas, in Patagonia, directly to Antarctica where you board your expedition ship. You thereby avoid the stormy seas of the Drake Passage – and the potential seasickness – experiencing only the best Antarctica has to offer.
Sail Antarctica
Antarctica21 offers boutique-style wilderness adventures, not cruises. Our small expedition vessels, more like private yachts, offer you privileged access to Antarctica, taking you where larger ships cannot. With fewer guests, you disembark fast and efficiently, so you spend your time exploring not waiting.
Unique Features
Antarctic air-cruises is all we do. As a boutique specialist we dedicate 100% of our resources to the organization of your Antarctic trip.
Experience And Expertise
Antarctica21 pioneered the Antarctic air-cruise model. We are the world’s leader in this unique style of travel to Antarctica. We have completed over 180 fly and cruise departures, more than any other company in the world, by far.
One Flight Per Expedition
We use a single flight to carry all travelers to and from Antarctica for each of our expeditions. This makes our operation fast and efficient while reducing the chance of weather-related delays compared to the alternatives.
Small Is Beautiful
Antarctica21 only operates small ships, carrying a maximum of 75 guests. With a small group of travelers, disembarkation is fast and efficient so you can spend more time exploring and less time waiting.
High Staff/Traveller Ratio
Travel with a well-staffed team of at least twelve expert polar guides. Passionate and engaging, they will make your trip memorable.
Antarctica Ships
Aircraft
Classic Antarctica Air-Cruise
Arrive in Punta Arenas, Chile, before 2 PM where you are welcomed by Antarctica21 staff and transferred to your hotel. In the afternoon, you attend a mandatory briefing that provides important information about your voyage and reviews the essential guidelines for Antarctic visitors. Later, gather for a welcome dinner and meet your fellow adventurers while enjoying a typical regional menu.
Your Antarctic adventure begins with a two-hour flight from Punta Arenas to King George Island, in the South Shetland Islands. As you exit the airplane, the clear Antarctic air fills your lungs for the first time. The 2-km (1.25-mi) walk to the shore, where you board a Zodiac to embark your expedition vessel, takes you through Chile’s Frei Station and Russia’s Bellingshausen Station.
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 seabirds, penguins, seals, and whales. Each day, disembark by Zodiac and explore the landscape together with expert polar guides. Onboard the ship, attend an engaging program of lectures and presentations and enjoy spectacular views from the lounge while sharing your daily adventures with fellow guests.
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).
After breakfast, transfer to the Punta Arenas airport for your onward flight.
Classic Antarctica Air-Cruise
8 DAYS / 7 NIGHTS
Rates from $ 11,495
No journey is the same and flexibility is the key to success in Antarctica. The Expedition Team plans 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.
Included in the Rate
- For air-cruises starting in Punta Arenas, group transfers to the airport/hotel on Day 1.
- For air-cruises starting in Punta Arenas, 1 overnight with breakfast in Punta Arenas at the Cabo de Hornos Hotel or similar, with a welcome dinner including drinks on Day 1.
- 1 overnight with breakfast in Punta Arenas at the Cabo de Hornos Hotel or similar on the Day of the Scheduled Return Flight from Antarctica.
- Group transfers to the airport/hotel on the Day of the Scheduled Return Flight from Antarctica, and group transfers to the hotel/airport on the last Day of the Air-Cruise.
- Flight from Punta Arenas to Frei Station on King George Island and/or vice versa as indicated in the program corresponding to each voyage.
- Ship cruise along the Antarctic Peninsula as indicated in the program corresponding to each voyage.
- Daily buffet breakfast and lunch on board ship offering a wide choice of dishes.
- Daily served dinner on board ship offering a choice of three main courses.
- 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.
- All guided shore excursions.
- Lectures and entertainment on board.
- Comprehensive pre- and post-voyage information material.
- Loan of waterproof boots for landing in Antarctica.
- Contingency Plan as described further on.
- IAATO passenger fee.
toggle dots below to see package exclusions
Specifically not Included in the Rate
- 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.
- Beverages purchased at the ship’s bar.
- 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.
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Magellan Explorer
A new and modern expedition vessel custom-built for our Antarctic air-cruises.
Ocean Nova
A modern and comfortable expedition vessel.
Hebridean Sky
A a small, all-suite expedition vessel.