Description
Explorers have long been lured by the White Continent. Discover the fascinating wildlife and landscapes that Antarctica has to offer on this unforgettable fly-cruise expedition which avoids the two rough Drake Passage crossings and allows you to do what really matters - exploring one of the last truly unspoilt regions of the world.
Flying from Punta Arenas in Chile, it is 3.5 hours to King George Island in the South Shetland Islands, where you board the Grigoriy Mikheev. This comfortable, specially-designed expedition vessel with an ice-strengthened hull and state-of-the-art equipment will take you into the most inaccessible regions. Expert English-speaking guides will lead shore excursions by zodiac to the most interesting areas to observe wildlife such as the wandering albatross, elephant seals and of course penguins,as well as the unparalleled scenery of multi-coloured icebergs, glaciers and towering snow-capped mountains.The ship's cabins are all outside-facing and offer guests an awe-inspiring view every morning, and the restaurant, lounge, bar and library are great areas for guests to exchange their tales of discovery from the day.
Sample Itinerary:
Day 1: Fly Punta Arenas to King George Island, South Shetlands and embark on the Grigoriy Mikheev.
Day 2: Morning visit to Aitcho Island and its Gentoo and Antarctic Penguin colonies and then onto Deception Island in the afternoon.
Day 4: Early morning cruise through the stunning Lemaire Channel, one of the most scenic areas in Antarctica. Landing on Petermann Island, the southernmost spot in the trip, with exploration of Cuverville Island in the afternoon.
Day 5: Morning landing at Half Moon Island. Visit to the Arctowski Polish Academy of Science Antarctic Base.
Day 6: Return to King George Island for your flight back to Punta Arenas
Accommodation
3 Superior cabins with private facilities; 14 Twin Cabins with private facilities; 6 Twin cabins with shared facilities
Childcare
Suitable from age 12 upwards
Facilities
Bar, restaurant, lounge, library
Activities
Free Activities : All excursions are included
When to travel
Antarctic weather is a lesson in extremes. Antarctica is the world’s coldest, windiest and driest continent. During the summer months the winds abate considerably and the weather is surprisingly comfortable, averaging between 20 and 50F. Summertime also means 18-24 hours of sunlight which allows life to flourish for a brief summer period. Long days also allow extensive exploration by small ship cruise to Antarctica. Antarctic weather allows for a short season of cruising from November to March each year.
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Best time to visit
Good time to visit
Average time to visit
Not applicable
Location and directions
Antarctic Peninsula, Antarctica
Embark and disembark in Punta Arenas. The cruise operates from King George Island and returns to King George Island
How to get there
16-hour flight to Santiago followed by a 3.5 hour flight to Punta Arenas where the flight commences
