Luxury Antarctica Itinerary

Fly to Antarctica

Flying over the Drake Passage, notorious for its big seas, not only dodges the waves but also saves time without compromising your time in the White Continent. This nine-day sample itinerary does that, flying you from Punta Arenas in Chile to King George Island in the South Shetland islands before you board a luxury expedition ship. 

From here, explore the pristine landscapes of the South Shetland Islands and the Antarctic Peninsula, guided by experts who bring you close to penguins, seals and whales in their natural habitats.

The itinerary offers a perfect blend of adventure and comfort. Each day, embark on guided excursions that may include hiking on glaciers, cruising among icebergs or visiting scientific research stations. Wildlife encounters are a highlight, with opportunities to observe the fascinating behaviours of various penguin species, playful seals and majestic whales feeding in the nutrient-rich waters.

Back on board, indulge in world-class amenities. The vessel features luxurious cabins with stunning views, a gourmet dining experience that highlights local and international cuisine, and relaxing common areas perfect for unwinding after a day of exploration. Onboard experts provide insightful lectures, enriching your understanding of the incredible environment you are exploring.

This journey promises not only breathtaking vistas and unforgettable wildlife encounters but also the highest standards of comfort and service. From the moment you step on the plane in Punta Arenas to the final farewell on King George Island, every detail is meticulously planned to ensure an extraordinary experience. This is more than a trip; it is an immersion into the last great wilderness on earth, offering memories that will last a lifetime.

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KEY FACTS

PEAK TIME

November-February

PRICE

From GBP £12,750 USD $17,500 pp excl. flights

IDEAL LENGTH

9 days

FLIGHT TIME

14 hours 30 mins from London
10 hours 30 mins From NYC to Santiago de Chile

CURRENCY

Chilean Pesos + US dollars

LANGUAGE

Spanish + English

Where you'll go
Explorer's House, Punta Arenas

Explorer's House, Punta Arenas

King George Island

King George Island

Lemaire Channel, Antarctica

Lemaire Channel

Seal, Antarctica

Gerlache Strait

Deception Island, South Shetland Islands

Deception Island, South Shetland Islands

Antarctica

Paradise Bay

Gentoo penguin, Antarctica

Danko Island

When to go

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Best time to visit
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GEOGRAPHICAL FACT

Deception Island is not only one of the largest active calderas in the world. It is also one of the only active volcanos that you can sail into. Hot springs here make it a great place for a dip in Antarctic waters.

Itinerary Highlights

Punta Arenas, Chile

Punta Arenas, Chile

This epic adventure starts in Punta Arenas in the heart of Chilean Patagonia. This outpost town is on the shore of the Strait of Magellan, with spectacular views of the surrounding snow-capped mountains. It is here that you will gather with fellow adventurers, meeting at the Explorer’s House for the briefing sessions and welcome dinner where you will learn more about the days to come.  The following day you will board a flight across the Drake Passage to King George Island where the adventure will really begin.

King George Island

Arrival at King George Island

The flight to King George Island takes approximately two hours, saving a day and a half at sea crossing the Drake Passage. Once on the ground you will transfer directly to your expedition ship, ready to start exploring the South Shetland Islands and Antarctica. King George Island itself is home to research stations from various countries, diverse wildlife including penguins and seals, and stunning polar landscapes, enhancing expedition experiences.

The Lemaire Channel

Magellan Explorer, Antarctica

Cruising through the Lemaire Channel is a highlight of any Antarctic expedition. Known as the ‘Kodak Alley’ for its stunning photogenic qualities, this narrow passage is flanked by towering cliffs and majestic icebergs. The channel’s calm waters often mirror the dramatic scenery, creating breathtaking reflections. Wildlife is abundant, with frequent sightings of seals lounging on ice floes and pods of whales swimming gracefully. The surrounding cliffs are home to numerous seabird colonies. As the ship navigates through this icy wonderland, passengers are treated to unparalleled views and the serene beauty of one of Antarctica’s most picturesque locations.

Penguin Colonies

Chinstrap penguin, Antarctica
Visiting a penguin colony in Antarctica is an unforgettable experience. As you approach, the cacophony of calls and the distinctive smell signal your arrival. Thousands of penguins, such as Adélie, gentoo and chinstrap, bustle about in a flurry of activity. Observing their behaviours, from waddling and tobogganing across the snow to intricate courtship rituals, offers a fascinating glimpse into their lives. The sight of fluffy chicks huddling for warmth and adults diving into the icy waters for food is mesmerising. Guided by experts, you will learn about their ecology and the challenges they face, making the visit both educational and awe-inspiring.

Specialist guides

Specialist guides in Antarctica
On this expedition cruise to Antarctica, specialist guides enhance the journey with their expertise and passion. These guides include historians, marine biologists, geologists and ornithologists, each offering deep insights into the region’s unique environment. They lead informative lectures, providing context about the wildlife, ice formations and historical significance of the sites visited. During shore excursions and Zodiac cruises, they share knowledge of penguin behaviours, glacial dynamics and marine ecosystems. Their guidance transforms the expedition into a rich educational experience, ensuring a deeper understanding and appreciation of Antarctica’s pristine wilderness.

Kayaking, hiking & wildlife

Kayaking in Antarctica

Set out on an incredible journey to Antarctica, where kayaking, hiking and wildlife encounters create lasting memories. Paddle through icy waters, flanked by towering glaciers and inquisitive penguins. Trek across untouched landscapes, experiencing the continent’s stunning beauty up close. In this frozen paradise, encounter a variety of wildlife, from playful seals to majestic whales, adding excitement to your adventure. This immersive Antarctic experience offers a unique mix of thrilling activities and breathtaking natural wonders, ensuring an unforgettable exploration of one of the world’s most pristine environments.

Itinerary Highlights

Our tailor-made journeys include

  • A dedicated Destination Expert who will curate your itinerary from scratch, tailoring it to your preferences + interests
  • Private + extraordinary under-the-radar experiences
  • Access to the very best guides + experts to bring the destination to life
  • Private international airport transfers in destination
  • The MyCazLoyd app to view your itinerary offline anywhere, anytime
  • 24/7 support whilst travelling
  • ATOL protection to give you total peace of mind

Let us plan your perfect trip to Antarctica

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