Reach the White Continent in two hours by air then cruise the majestic Peninsula of Antarctica. Sound too easy to be true? Read on.
Ever dreamed of gliding through Antarctica’s glassy waters on a sea kayak surrounded by the wildlife of the White Continent with towering icebergs in the distance? See seals, whales, and myriad sea birds in their natural icy habitat as the crisp air kisses your cheeks. Breathe in the lightly salted air and be captivated by the still peacefulness of one of the most remote parts of the world.
Join Antarctica21, and discover Antarctica on a once-in-a-lifetime wilderness expedition by air then sea, with added adventure and eco excursions. Plus, have time to explore the Chilean Patagonia – all in one epic trip.
Can you fly to Antarctica?
Yes, you can! Antarctica – the seventh Continent – is one of the most isolated places on Earth, an incredible white world with a short travel season during the Austral summer. Board your Antarctica21 jet in Punta Arenas before a two-hour private flight to Antarctica, flying over the usually stormy Drake Passage where the Pacific, Atlantic, and Southern Oceans meet. Taking to the clouds versus sailing the choppy waters of the Drake Passage not only offers a more comfortable, smooth ride; it also saves you two days each way, time you can use to explore South America.
First stop, Chile
Chilean Patagonia is home to a breathtaking South American landscape filled with magnificent ice fields, stunning forests, rivers and lakes fed by crystal water straight from glacier springs. A three-and-a-half-hour flight from Santiago, Chile’s capital, takes you to Punta Arenas, the gateway to Chilean Patagonia, a nature lover’s paradise. Kayak along the Strait of Magellan. Hike in Chile’s most famous national park, Torres del Paine. Go fly fishing or horseback ride through the vast pampas and estancias. Spot a condor and, if lucky, even a puma in their natural wild habitat.
Onwards to Antarctica
Next, board your Antarctic flight and meet your expedition vessel. A specially kitted-out jet takes travellers from South America down to Antarctica in merely two hours. During the journey, take in the in-flight hospitality as you peer out the window watching the landscape change into a white winter wonderland. Landing at Chile’s Frei Station on King George Island, you’ll then board your ship and embark on the next leg of your Antarctica adventure, ready to explore the wilds of the White Continent.
The vessel
The sleek and modern expedition vessels are custom-built to the latest Polar Code specifications and carry a maximum of 73 travellers. Small groups on small ships means more focus on outstanding hospitality that feels more private yacht that cruise ship. With the added bonus of direct access along the Antarctic shoreline that larger vessels can’t reach.
Seven cabin categories are super stylish with all the mod-cons, from individually controlled heating systems to a comfy sitting area, a private bathroom and heated floors. Some also boast private balconies.
After a day exploring the ice shores of Antarctic, take to the ship’s glass-enclosed forward-facing observation deck to watch the sunset. A spacious, well-stocked bar and stylish dining room rustles up an international menu of dishes daily. While a cosy library, professional gym, and a sauna guarantee to occupy any downtime onboard.
Antarctic adventures and eco-activities
Antarctica is an ecological environment ripe for scientific studies. During your adventure, you have the option to get hands-on experience with Antarctica21’s Citizen Science Program. From The FjordPhyto Project, taking phytoplankton surveys along the fjord-lined coast of the Antarctic Peninsula, to the PolarTag, part of the Arctic and Antarctic research community, working with researchers to track native animals.
Plus, with a fleet of 10 Zodiac boats, all well suited for wildlife watching, all activities are packed with adventure.
Beyond the water, take to the land and hike through the snow through untouched terrain. Grab your walking pole and venture to the best vantage points for panoramic views over the pristine landscape.
The Air-Cruise Antarctica model
For 20 years, Antarctica21 has offered air-cruise adventures to discover Antarctica. As the original boutique operator that pioneered these epic Antarctica fly and cruise expeditions, they know the region intimately: its geography, wildlife, and ecology.
To learn more about flying to Antarctica, request your complimentary copy of the exclusive Antarctic Flights Guide.
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