The Journeys Collection
ANTARCTICA21 - ANTARCTICA EXPRESS AIR-CRUISE
ANTARCTICA21 - ANTARCTICA EXPRESS AIR-CRUISE
Antarctica Express Air-Cruise is the perfect choice for travelers seeking a short yet unforgettable journey to the White Continent. Designed for those with limited time or looking for a more accessible way to experience Antarctica, this itinerary combines the convenience of an Antarctic flight with an intimate boutique expedition cruise.
The journey begins by sea from South America, navigating the legendary Cape Horn and southern waters, before taking a flight across the Drake Passage—saving significant travel time and avoiding the rough seas often encountered. Upon arrival at King George Island, the adventure continues aboard a small expedition vessel, with Zodiac landings and cruises to discover the wildlife and dramatic landscapes of the South Shetland Islands and the Antarctic Peninsula.
With a maximum of just 76 guests per voyage, the Antarctica Express ensures a highly personalized experience, flexible operations, and more time for exploration. Guided by an expert team of naturalists and seasoned explorers, guests gain a comprehensive understanding of Antarctica’s wildlife, history, and awe-inspiring beauty—all within an immersive six-day program.
HIGHLIGHTS:
- Ideal for busy travelers who still wish to experience Antarctica.
- Sail past Cape Horn and southern waters, then fly across the Drake Passage.
- Explore the South Shetland Islands and the northern Antarctic Peninsula.
- Boutique-style voyage aboard a small ship with limited guests.
- Enriching lectures and guidance from a team of polar specialists.
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INCLUDE
- Pre & Post Trip Information : Detailed travel preparation documents.
- Group transfers : Between airport and hotel in Punta Arenas.
- 1 night hotel in Punta Arenas : Hotel Cabo de Hornos or similar, including breakfast.
- Flights & Cruises : One way between King George Island (Antarctica) and Punta Arenas.
- Daily meals & drinks : Buffet breakfast, lunch, dinner a la carte; with wine, beer, juice, coffee, tea, chocolate, water and snacks.
- Equipment & contingencies : Waterproof boots, contingency plan and IAATO fee.
- Guided tours & activities : Landing, Zodiac ride, presentations and onboard entertainment.
- Exclusive benefits at Explorers House : For guests at Punta Arenas.
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NOT INCLUDED
- Airfare & procedures : International tickets, passport costs, visas, entry/exit taxes not mentioned in the program.
- Meals & accommodation : Meals outside the program, additional accommodation costs, airport transfers not specified in the itinerary.
- Accommodation, meals, sightseeing or transportation outside the official itinerary
- Drinks purchased at the bar on board
- Insurance & baggage : Travel insurance (baggage, trip cancellation/interruption, medical – recommended), excess baggage fees for international & domestic flights.
- Personal clothing : Waterproof pants are required when traveling on Zodiac, or other personal equipment outside the program.
- Personal services : Laundry, spa, personal expenses, telephone charges.
- Internet : Free basic Wi-Fi, excluding Premium plan for high data apps.
- Tips & Extra Activities : Voluntary tips for staff & crew, adventure activities not listed in “Included Activities”.
- Transfers outside the program : Any transfer services not included in the official schedule
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DEPARTURE DATE
- January 14, 2026 - January 19, 2026
- November 17, 2026 - November 22, 2026
- March 4, 2027 - March 10, 2027
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ESTIMATED COSTS
From 198,000,000 VND / guest (Twin / Double sharing)
DETAILED ITINERARY
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Day 1: Start of the 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.
Day 2: Cape Horn & Drake Passage
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.
Day 3: Drake Passage
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 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.
Day 4: Drake Passage and 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. Exploration may continue well into the evening taking advantage of the long Antarctic daylight.
Day 5: Antarctica and scheduled return flight
Upon reaching King George Island, disembark at Fildes Bay. You then board a transfer vehicle and pass 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).
Day 6: End of the Air-Cruise
After breakfast, transfer to the Punta Arenas airport for your onward flight.
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