Antarctica Fly Cruise

Perfect for those either short on time, eager to maximise their time on the continent or simply lacking confidence in their sea legs, the Antarctica Fly Cruise itinerary allows guests to cut out the traditional (and infamous!) two-day sailing across the Drake Passage, instead arriving to Antarctica from Chilean city of Punta Arenas by light aircraft in just two hours.

1. Fly to Santiago

2. Days 1-3: Santiago

   Arrive in Santiago, Chile's bustling capital. We've included a private city tour with an expert guide on your arrival afternoon, which will give you a good overview of Santiago's diverse districts and fascinating political history. Your next day is free for you to decide what to do. Our experts can recommend something to best suit your interests, be it winery tours in the nearby premier winelands, an active day in the nearby Cajón de Maipo or a visit to Valparaiso, the colourful port city perched on Chile's coast.

   Accommodation: The Ritz-Carlton Santiago (2 nights)

3. Days 3-4: Punta Arenas, Chile

   Fly south today to the Chilean port city of Punta Arenas and the gateway to your Antarctic adventure. Upon arrival, you will meet members of your expedition team, who will advise you on the schedule for your boot fitting, pre-departure briefing and the welcome dinner, where you will get to meet your fellow adventurers.

   Accommodation: Cabo de Hornos Hotel (1 night)

4. Days 4-9: Antarctica

   At the agreed schedule, head to the airport and board your flight to King George Island. We can book preferential seating for you to ensure a window spot and the first glimpses of icebergs as you fly over the Drake Passage in just two hours. Upon arrival, it's time to embark and settle into your cabin before meeting your expedition team and crew at the captain's welcome and briefing. Thus, your Antarctic adventure begins.

   With a passion for the region, the onboard experts share their knowledge through a riveting program of presentations and guide you ashore in small groups to hike to historic sites and wildlife rich areas. While local weather and ice conditions dictate the route, there is no shortage of breathtaking landing sites and the aim is to reach the stunning Lemaire Channel, bordered on either side by vertiginous cliffs that shoot up from the ocean to 700 metres high.

   Accommodation: M/V Magellan Explorer (5 nights)

5. Days 9-10: Punta Arenas, Chile

   It's time to bid farewell to the on-board crew as you board zodiacs back to King George Island. Whilst you wait for the plane, take a wander up to the Russian Orthodox Chapel perched on a hill above the bay or head into the small giftshop for last minute souvenirs. Board your flight and return across the Drake. Arrive back in Punta Arenas for the evening and toast the horizon and your Antarctic adventures with a glass of Chilean red.

   Accommodation: Cabo de Hornos Hotel (1 night)

6. Days 10-11: Santiago

   Return to Santiago for your final night in the Chilean capital. Have time to extend your trip? If so, speak to one of our team to discuss visiting other Chilean gems such as the beautiful Torres del Paine National Park, the otherworldly Atacama Desert or fascinating Easter Island.

   Accommodation: The Ritz-Carlton Santiago (1 night)

7. Fly home from Santiago

Santiago, Punta Arenas, Antarctica