Antarctic Fly & Cruise In-Depth

Day 1: Arriving in Puerto Natales, Chile 

Make your own arrangements to arrive in the charming Chilean town of Puerto Natales by 3pm today. Upon arrival, you'll be transported to your group hotel on a complimentary transfer. Dinner is included tonight, and you'll also receive a briefing on tomorrow's planned flight to Antarctica.

Puerto Natales offers a scenic start to your adventure, flanked by the placid Last Hope Sound inlet and framed by the snow-capped Cerro Benitez Mountains. Bird enthusiasts can take a leisurely walk along the waterfront to begin spotting local wildlife.

Day 2: Flight to Antarctica and ship embarkation

After breakfast at the hotel, you’ll check out and take a transfer to the airport for a two-hour flight to King George Island, skipping the usual two-day ship journey across the Drake Passage. When flying to Antarctica, flight timings depend on safe weather conditions, so you’ll be informed of the exact schedule locally. 

As your plane dips down towards King George Island, part of the South Shetland Islands, enjoy the icy views from your window – look out for your ship anchored in the bay awaiting your arrival. 

After landing, a minibus will usher you past the Chilean and Russian research stations to the sea, where you'll put on a lifejacket and take a zodiac shuttle to your expedition ship. Your Antarctic adventure has begun!

Days 3 to 7: Exploring Antarctica 

Embracing the unexpected is key during these next five (or six for those booked on an extended voyage) days exploring the wonders of Antarctica. The ship’s Captain and Expedition Leader will change the itinerary daily to take advantage of weather and wildlife sightings.

Using the vessel's zodiac rib boats, your guides will whisk you ashore to watch penguin antics at their noisy rookeries and to hike through the snow for spectacular vistas of the surrounding glaciers and mountains. From your zodiac you might spot humpback whales gorging on krill and snoozing seals, amidst the glorious backdrop of icebergs. A photographer’s dream, each one features distinctive shapes, unusual textures and an ethereal combination of blue hues. A team of experienced naturalists will be on hand to share their knowledge about the extraordinary animals and landscapes. 

Weather permitting, the team will offer an opportunity for a complimentary kayaking session. This is a serene way to experience Antarctica at water level, with only the gentle splish splash of your paddle and the crackle of the brash ice to accompany the Antarctic soundtrack. 

Evenings will include recaps of the day, educational talks from your Expedition Team, and briefings for the day ahead. As the ship moves between locations, look out for passing whales and gaze out at the magnificent glacial vistas.

Day 8: Disembarking the ship and flying to Puerto Natales 

Today, the ship will arrive back at King George Island, ready for your short flight from Antarctica to Puerto Natales. You’ll disembark one last time and be taken to the port by zodiac, skipping the notorious two day journey by ship across the Drake Passage again. 

On arrival back into civilisation at Puerto Natales, you’ll be transferred to a hotel for a final included night and a complimentary dinner. 

Day 9: Homeward bound from Puerto Natales 

After breakfast, check out from the hotel and transfer to the airport for your journey home.

Alternatively, consider extending your stay to explore the rugged peaks of Torres del Paine National Park. We would be happy to discuss options for extending your adventure. 

Please make sure your departure flight from Puerto Natales is scheduled no earlier than 3:45pm local time.

Note: While choosing to fly to/from Antarctica is the most expedient option, it's also more weather dependent than travelling by ship across the Drake Passage. Charter flights to/from Antarctica operate on a very flexible schedule to accommodate the changeable weather conditions. As a result, flight timings may be brought forward or delayed to ensure safe operating conditions. To discuss in more detail, please get in touch. 

This itinerary is for guidance only, as each voyage will vary depending on ice and weather conditions as well as taking advantage of impromptu wildlife opportunities.