King George Island

Where is it?

King George Island is the largest of the South Shetland Islands and lies 75 miles off the coast of Antarctica.

About King George Island

The island was first claimed by the British in 1819 and named after King George III, however the following years were turbulent with many disputes about who owned the island.  In some form or another, Argentina, Brazil, Chile, China, South Korea, Poland, Russia, Uruguay, the Netherlands, Ecuador, Germany, Peru and the US all have a presence on the island. In so doing, these countries earn the status of a consultative party, or full member, of the Antarctic Treaty.

King George Island now serves as an aerodrome for flights to Antarctica, and is known as the unofficial capital of the continent because of the numerous research stations there. Aside from the scientific significance, the island is a haven for wildlife, and is home to many marine mammals such as Elephant, Weddell and Leopard seals, and colonies of Chinstrap and Gentoo penguins.

How to Visit:

Antarctic Peninsula cruises often start with a visit to King George Island as it is the first major outcrop of land after navigating the Drake Passage.

Fly-and-Cruise expeditions land / take off from the runway at King George. Fly across the famous Drake Passage from the town of Punta Arenas in southern Chilean Patagonia, saving 2-3 days of time at sea - an important consideration for those either short on time or avert to sea-travel. Travellers then board their cruise ship when in Antarctica, thereby sailing across the Drake only once.

Map of King George Island

Nearby landmarks

Trips that visit King George Island

Flexibility is the key to success in Antarctica. All voyage routes take advantage of the ever-changing opportunities provided by nature, crafting a unique and extraordinary experience each time.

Special Offers:Swoop has access to the widest range of offers and can help you find the right trip, cabin, & price.

Fly-Sail Antarctica & South Georgia

This unique express trip saves time by flying back from Antarctica, cutting out 2 sailing days and skipping the Falklands. Maximising your time amid the spectacular wildlife and scenery of the White Continent and South Georgia is the focus of…

  • 17 Days
  • $15,995
Antarctica & Patagonia In Depth

This extraordinary voyage offers a rare chance to immerse yourself in two of the planet’s wildest destinations on a comfortable, state-of-the-art expedition ship. Spend 4 or 5 days exploring the spectacular Antarctic Peninsula before the focus shifts to navigating Patagonia’s…

  • 17 or 18 Days
  • $26,262
Original Fly & Cruise Luxury Adventure

Fly over the Drake Passage in just 2 hours, both to and from Antarctica. ​Ideal for those ​wanting a high comfort level, but ​who have limited time or ​are ​anxious sailors. ​An outstanding program, successfully operated for over 20 years,…

  • 8 Days
  • $12,995
Quintessential Luxury Antarctic Sail & Fly

Experience the thrill of sailing across the legendary Drake Passage to Antarctica in one direction, then save time by returning to civilisation via a speedy 2 hour flight. Immerse yourself in the White Continent over 6 expedition days on a…

  • 12 Days
  • $18,000
Original Fly & Cruise Expedition Cruise

Travel with the pioneers of fly & cruise Antarctic voyages, flying in both directions and bypassing a 2-day sail on the Drake Passage. Regular departure dates (Dec - Feb) to choose from. Explore Antarctica aboard a trusty 67 passenger expedition…

  • 8 Days
  • $11,495
Express Tour of Antarctica

A cost-effective Antarctic adventure. This itinerary is also ideal for those with limited time wanting to combine Antarctica with time exploring Patagonia. Sailing one way and flying back, you get to combine two iconic places: Antarctica and Cape Horn. Note,…

  • 6 Days
  • $5,995
66 Degrees South Fly Cruise

By offering time saving flights, extended time in Antarctica and the chance to reach the Polar Circle, this 10-day voyage maximises the polar experience. Minimum travel time and maximum exploring time and all the benefits of only 76 people…

  • 10 Days
  • $15,495
Fly & Sail Antarctica in Style

If you’re undecided between sailing or flying to Antarctica, why not choose both with this combination trip? A two hour flight south provides fast access to the White Continent, then after four incredible days of exploring, you’ll sail back across…

  • 10 Days
  • $16,195
Fly & Cruise Polar Circle

This impressive voyage combines all the comfort and speed of flying in both directions with extended time in Antarctica (7 full days), allowing you to head south towards the remote Antarctic Circle. Explore from the comfort of your outstanding purpose-built…

  • 11 Days
  • $14,295
Antarctic Fly & Cruise Safari

If you’re keen to fly to Antarctica instead of sail, this 8-day trip is ideal, with a choice of dates in December, January and February. Travel on outstanding modern expedition ships with a maximum of 172 passengers. Active adventurers can…

  • 8 Days
  • $17,895
Sail & Fly Antarctica in Style

By sailing south across the Drake Passage then flying north in just two hours, this itinerary blends the adventure of arriving in Antarctica by ship with the speed of a quick exit. The risk of weather-related flight delays is removed…

  • 10 Days
  • $16,795