Antarctica Expedition Cruise - 8 Days

Day 1: Arrive in Punta Arenas - Gateway to Antarctica

Welcome to Chile! Upon arrival in Punta Arenas, you'll be welcomed and transferred to your hotel. You're now in the major transport hub in one of the most beautiful regions of Chile. Founded in 1848 on the eastern shore of the Brunswick Peninsula, in its heyday, Punta Arenas was home to the creme de la creme of Patagonian society. Today it's a tourist destination, used as a gateway to the impressive natural attractions in Patagonia, like Torres del Paine National Park and Magdalena Island, as well as a jumping-off point for expeditions into the Antarctic.

After settling into your accommodations, you'll attend a briefing that provides important information about your upcoming voyage and reviews the essential guidelines for Antarctic visitors. Later, gather for a welcome dinner and meet your fellow adventurers while enjoying a typical regional menu.

Day 2: Fly to King George Island, Board Antarctic Expedition Vessel

Your Antarctic adventure begins today with a two-hour flight from Punta Arenas to King George Island, in the South Shetland Islands. As you exit the airplane, the clear Antarctic air fills your lungs for the first time. Explore the area surrounding Chile’s Frei Station and Russia’s Bellingshausen Station, before boarding a Zodiac to embark on your expedition vessel.

Days 3-6: Explore Antarctica - Expedition Cruise & Daily Zodiac Excursions

Over the next three days, you'll cruise between the South Shetland Islands and the western coast of the Antarctic Peninsula, sailing along ice-filled fjords and among spectacular icebergs, while enjoying the company of sea birds, penguins, seals, and whales. Each day, disembark by Zodiac and explore the landscape together with expert polar guides. Onboard the ship, attend an engaging program of lectures and presentations and enjoy breathtaking views from the lounge while sharing your daily adventures with fellow guests.

No journey to Antarctica is the same, and flexibility is the key to a successful visit. The Expedition Team will set the voyage route to take advantage of the ever-changing opportunities provided by nature, crafting a unique and extraordinary experience each time. While the exact itinerary changes with each expedition, you will explore several spots that offer the best possible overview of the varied Antarctic environment. Your voyage may include visits to sites such as Paulet Island, Hope Bay, Port Lockroy, Petermann Island, Paradise Bay, Deception Island, the Lemaire Channel, or many other magnificent destinations.

Day 7: Disembark at King George Island, Return Flight to Punta Arenas

Today you'll return to King George Island and bid farewell to Antarctica before boarding the flight back to Punta Arenas. Upon arrival, transfer to your hotel and be sure to head out in the evening and enjoy a local dinner. Seafood is the order of the day here, so sample some local specialties, like chupe de centolla (souffle of king crab), as well as oysters, scallops, and other shellfish.

Day 8: Depart Punta Arenas

After breakfast, you'll wave goodbye to Patagonia and transfer to the Punta Arenas airport to catch your departing flight. Safe travels!

More Antarctic Itineraries

Looking for more inspiration for your trip to Antarctica? Check out these other Patagonia and  Antarctica itineraries, with outdoor adventures and best-of tours to hit the highlights. 

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