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Antarctica By Air & Cruise

Skip the Drake, Keep the Adventure

For almost 40 years, we've sent our travellers to some of the most extraordinary corners of the planet — and now we're thrilled to partner with Antarctica21, the pioneers of the Antarctic air-cruise, to bring you the ultimate expedition to the Seventh Continent. We have two departures available this season, each offering a different side of Antarctic summer.

What is an air-cruise?

Instead of spending two days battling the notoriously rough Drake Passage by sea, you'll fly from Punta Arenas, Chile to King George Island in just two hours — and step straight onto your boutique expedition vessel. That means more time exploring Antarctica and less time gripping the railings. Antarctica21 invented this concept back in 2003, and with over 300 fly-and-cruise expeditions under their belt, they've perfected the art of coordinating air and sea operations in one of the most unpredictable environments on Earth

Why Antarctica21?

Their values align naturally with ours: small groups, expert-led journeys, and a deep respect for the places we visit. Their vessels — including the Magellan Explorer, custom-built in Chile to the latest Polar Code standards — carry a maximum of just 76 guests. Everyone can disembark at once, so you spend your time among penguins, not queuing for Zodiacs. With at least 13 expert polar guides on every voyage, you'll have knowledgeable company at every turn.

Before you even reach the ice, you'll be welcomed at Explorers House, Antarctica21's exclusive expedition centre in Punta Arenas — a stunning 2,000 m² facility with a polar library, amphitheatre for your pre-departure briefings, and a welcome dinner where you'll meet your fellow adventurers.

Two Departures, Two Seasons — Both Extraordinary

Departure 1

Early Summer
November 30 – December 7, 2026

8 Days, 7 Nights Aboard the Magellan Explorer

Early December brings long daylight hours, fresh snow cover, and active penguin nesting colonies.

Departure 2

Late Summer
February 25 – March 4, 2027

8 Days, 7 Nights Aboard the Magellan Explorer

In late February, the landscape opens up as snow retreats and whale sightings tend to increase as the austral summer draws to a close.

Pricing & Savings

$4,000 USD Off

Per Person on Both Departures

Take advantage of $4,000 USD off per person on both departures, available until April 30, 2026 or until capacity is reached. The discount applies to all cabin categories except Triple Suite.

Example: November 30 departure — starting from: Porthole Cabin: $14,995 USD (save $4,000 USD).

Solo travellers

Dedicated Single Veranda Cabins are available from $26,495 USD with no single supplement.

Book a porthole or veranda cabin and Antarctica21 will take care of finding a share partner of the same gender. (Single supplement will apply at the hotel in Punta Arenas only, enquire for pricing).

NOTE: All prices are per person in USD. Both departures include flights to/from Antarctica, two hotel nights in Punta Arenas with breakfast, welcome dinner, all meals on board with wine and beer, guided Zodiac excursions, onboard lectures, waterproof boot loan, and a comprehensive contingency plan for weather delays

Optional adventures

Sea kayaking among icebergs ($995 USD, book at reservation) and guided hiking & snowshoeing ($85 USD per excursion, book onboard).

Tour leader

With a minimum of 10 Adventures Abroad travellers on each departure, your expedition will include a dedicated Adventures Abroad Tour Leader alongside Antarctica21's expert team.

Frequently Asked Questions

Antarctica21 offers a comprehensive collection of travel tips, FAQs, and preparation guidelines designed to answer questions about your Antarctic tour. From gear checklists and visa requirements to health, safety, and onboard expectations. You can explore the full set of details here: https://www.antarctica21.com/travel-tips-antarctica

Contact Serra Hughes

For availability, cabin options, full day-to-day itinerary, or to reserve your place.

shughes@adventures-abroad.com

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