Polar Circle Air-Cruise

From Punta Arenas, Chile to Punta Arenas, Chile
  • All Antarctic Cruises
  • Antarctic Peninsula
  • Small Ship Cruising
  • Wildlife and Nature
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Tour Description

Avoid the rough waters of Drake Passage and fly to Antarctica. This Polar Circle Air-Cruise takes you to one of the most spectacular places on earth - Antarctica.

Flying from Punta Arenas in Chile to King George Island and return, this is one of the only Antarctica tours that will not only let you avoid the notorious and tumultuous waters of the Drake Passage, but will allow you more time to spend cruising the stunning landscape and wildlife-filled waters of Antarctica...plus sail further and try to cross the Antarctica circle!

Cruising on either the Ocean Nova or Magellan Explorer (depending on departure date), these small vessels will allow you to get close in as you explore the bays and inlets of the beautiful waters surrounding the South Shetland Islands and Antarctic Peninsula. Quickly disembark and make use of your time doing shore excursions and zodiac cruises as often as possible. Glide past icebergs, glaciers and in the shadow of snowy mountains. Get up close to vast arrays of penguins, seals, seabirds and spot whales in the frigid waters. Our expert guides will educate you on everything there is to know about the fascinating area. Our final goal of the Antarctica cruise is to sail to the far south & be one of the few adventurous travellers to cross the Antarctic Circle.

Viva's Best Bits...

Save time & avoid the rough Drake Passage, take a 2 hour flight to King George island and join your expedition cruise there, and start exploring Antarctica!

Be one of the few adventurers to cross the Antarctic Circle, whilst seeing lots of wildlife along the way - penguins, seals and whales!!

"The expedition ships used for fly cruise adventures have a maximum
of 75 guests. That means disembarking and embarking in Antarctica is faster and smoother, no waiting around for your turn!" Tara, Team Viva

Tour Itinerary

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Day 1
Arrival Day - Punta Arenas

We welcome you in Punta
Arenas, Chile, before 2 PM. Transfer to your hotel,
visit Explorers House, and attend a mandatory
briefing that provides important information about
your air-cruise and reviews the essential guidelines
for Antarctic visitors. A welcome dinner introduces
you to the local gastronomy as you mee

Day 2
Fly to King George Island

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. You then walk
2-km (1.25-mi) passing Chile’s Frei Station and
Russia’s Bellingshausen Station to reach the shore
and board a Zodiac that will take you to your
boutique expedition vessel.

Day 3-8
Exploring Antarctica

Sail along ice-filled fjords and among spectacular icebergs, while enjoying the company of sea birds, 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. 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 sets 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

Day 9
Fly King George Island to Punta Arenas

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 & not included in the program)

Day 10
Departure Day

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

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What’s Included

Accommodation
  • Included Copy 20 7 nights onboard Ocean Nova, Magellan Explorer
  • Included Copy 20 1 night hotel pre cruise & 1 night hotel post cruise in Punta Arenas
  • Included Copy 31 Cabin upgrades available
Food
  • Included Copy 20 All meals except in Punta Arenas, Coffee, tea, chocolate, water and snacks throughout
  • Included Copy 7 Wine, beer, juice, and soft drinks served with lunch and dinner on board ship
Fees & Services
  • Included Copy 20 Comprehensive pre- and post-voyage information material
  • Included Copy 20 All guided shore excursions
  • Included Copy 20 Lectures and entertainment on board
  • Included Copy 20 Return flights from Punta Arenas to King George Island
  • Included Copy 20 Exclusive access to Explorers House in Punta Arenas
  • Included Copy 20 Loan of waterproof boots for landing
  • Included Copy 7 International flights, Gratuities, Laundry, bar, beverage and other personal charges
  • Included Copy 7 Personal travel insurance
  • Included Copy 31 Preferred seating on your flight to Antarctica - additional charge
Transportation

The Ocean Nova

71 Passengers

Magellan Explorer

100 (75 on fly-cruise) Passengers

BAE 146-200, the AVRO RJ 85, and the AVRO RJ

Activities

  • Included Fly the drake passage, both ways!
  • Included Explorers house in Punta Arenas, a private club where you can prepare for your expedition
  • Included Zodiac cruising through stunning landscapes
  • Included See more of the landscape - join a hiking or snowshoeing programe (additional charge)
  • Included Option to go Kayaking (additional charge)
  • Included Landings in the Antarctic Peninsula & South Shetland Islands
  • Included Spend time with Antarctic wildlife - meet Adelie, Gentoo and Chinstap penguins
  • Included Attempt an Antarctic circle crossing!
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Click here for dates & prices
Duration

10 days

Price from

$15,995 USD

Per person, sharing

Based On Lowest Cabin

Select Date
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