• south_geo_3

  • south_geo_2

  • south_geo_1

Antarctica and South Georgia

Setting foot on the seventh continent is a privilege and an honor. You will bring home indelible memories, and tales of your journey will arouse the curiosity and admiration of your friends and family.

Antarctica and South Georgia
Combines visits to Antarctica and South Georgia
See South Georgia’s distinctive wildlife such as king penguins
Limited number of departures

Day 1
Start of the Air-Cruise

Our staff welcomes you in Punta Arenas, Chile, before 2 PM. Transfer to your hotel and attend a mandatory briefing. A welcome dinner introduces you to the local gastronomy as you meet fellow adventurers.

Day 2
Scheduled Flight to Antarctica

A two-hour flight takes you from Punta Arenas to King George Island, in the South Shetland Islands. A 2-km (1.25-mi) walk takes you to the shore where you board a Zodiac to embark your vessel.

Day 3 – 5

 

Exploring Antarctica

Cruise between the South Shetland Islands and the western coast of the Antarctic Peninsula, sailing along ice-filled fjords and among spectacular icebergs. Each day, disembark by Zodiac and explore the landscape together with expert polar guides.

No journey is the same and flexibility is the key to success in Antarctica. The Expedition Team plans the voyage route to take advantage of the ever-changing opportunities provided by Nature. You will explore several spots in the Gerlache Strait that offer the best possible overview of the varied Antarctic environment.

Day 6
Elephant Island

Sailing north, we hope to stop at Elephant Island. It was here that the crew of Shackleton’s Endurance found refuge while he and five handpicked men carried on to South Georgia. While stormy conditions rarely allow a shore landing, you will see the island from the ship.

Day 7 – 8

 

Sailing to South Georgia

As we sail northward, our historian and our naturalists offer a series of presentations. There is time to socialize in the ship’s lounge, while keeping an eye out for the region’s bird-life.

Day 9 – 11
South Georgia

The island of South Georgia is a diverse landscape of majestic mountains, massive glaciers, grassy uplands and deep fjords. Visit the former whaling outpost of Grytviken, where you may pay your respects at the simple grave of Ernest Shackleton. At St. Andrew’s Bay be overwhelmed by the sight of 150,000 king penguins. At Cooper Island, the nesting home of thousands of black-browed albatrosses, see a large colony of macaroni penguins. If the weather is favorable, visits are also planned at Fortuna Bay, Salisbury Plains, Prion Island, and Elsehul Bay.

Day 12 – 14
Sailing towards South America

As the ship heads to South America, the program of presentations continues. Use this time to enhance your understanding of the region and its history.

Day 15
At Sea and Beagle Channel

Approach South America and sail along the Beagle Channel. Take in the beauty of Tierra del Fuego and Navarino Island as you head to Ushuaia.

Day 16
Ushuaia, Argentina

Arrival to Ushuaia, where your journey ends at the pier upon disembarkation.

  • Meet and greet on arrival at Airport.
  • Accommodation and meals as indicated in the itinerary (B – Breakfast, L – Lunch, D – Dinner).
  • Entrance fees where applicable.
  • Tours as indicated in the itinerary.
  • Professional English-speaking guide/driver guide.
  • Transfers
  • Travel Protection is offered on all packages at an additional cost.

Veteran Antarctic aircraft pilots, experienced sea captains, an international team of polar guides and academics, and a team of seasoned travel professionals all come together to create the most luxurious travel experience, using only the best transport.


Artist Rendering

Magellan Explorer

Magellan Explorer is a new and modern expedition vessel custom built for our Antarctic air-cruises and makes her maidan voyage in late 2019.

More Information about the Magellan Explorer

Ocean Nova

Ocean Nova is a modern and comfortable expedition vessel. She was built in Denmark in 1992 to sail the ice-choked waters of Greenland. She was fully refurbished in 2006 and has since benefitted from annual upgrades and improvements. Her ice-strengthened hull is ideally suited for expedition travel in Antarctica.

More Information about the Ocean Nova

Hebridean Sky

Hebridean Sky is a small, all-suite expedition vessel. She was built in 1992 and refurbished in 2005. In 2016 the ship underwent an extensive, multimillion-dollar renovation that transformed it into one of the finest small-ships in the world.

More Information about the Hebridean Sky

BAE 146 / AVRO RJ Aircraft

The BAE 146 / AVRO RJ aircraft was manufactured in the United Kingdom by British Aerospace (which later became part of BAE Systems). It is a high-wing aircraft with very short runway requirements, which make it particularly suited for this kind of destination. It is operated by Aerovias DAP, which has more than 25 years of experience flying in Patagonia and Antarctica.

More Information about the BAE 146 / AVRO RJ Aircraft

While historically a majority of flights has operated on the scheduled day, in some instances weather conditions have required that adjustments to the departure time of Antarctic flights be made to avoid protracted delays. In the unlikely event that the flight to Antarctica cannot take place on the scheduled day due to unfavorable weather conditions, we will apply a Contingency Plan.

The Contingency Plan is included in the cost of your expedition. The primary goal of the plan is to provide an engaging and comfortable travel experience while we adapt to the weather. A change in the flight schedule can impact travel to Antarctica or return back to Punta Arenas, and the plan includes a range of activities determined by the circumstances. Additionally, the Contingency Plan offers you financial protection by providing a refund should weather conditions prevent us from reaching Antarctica.

The Details

In case the outbound flight to Antarctica is moved forward
In some cases it may be necessary to move forward the Antarctic flight to the afternoon or evening of Day 1 of the itinerary. This will result in early departure from Punta Arenas and early arrival in Antarctica.

In case the outbound flight to Antarctica is delayed
The group will remain in Punta Arenas while waiting for an improvement in the weather and for the opportunity to fly to Antarctica. Included are accommodation at the Cabo de Hornos Hotel or similar, meals, and guided excursions to local attractions. If by 2 PM on Day 4 of the itinerary it is still impossible to reach Antarctica, the trip will be interrupted and the cruise fare will be refunded.

In case the return flight to Punta Arenas is moved forward
In those cases when the forecast suggests the likelihood of unfavorable weather conditions in Antarctica persisting for several days, the flight back to Punta Arenas may be moved forward to the previous evening as a way to avoid a protracted delay in Antarctica.
Accommodation at the Cabo de Hornos Hotel or similar is included upon arrival. All other inclusions will remain per the original itinerary.

In case the return flight to Punta Arenas is delayed
The group will remain in Antarctica and wait for the opportunity to fly to Punta Arenas. Included are meals and accommodation on the ship, and local excursions. Upon arrival in Punta Arenas, the trip will end at the airport. Travellers are responsible for any expenses associated with the rescheduling of their airline tickets or onward travel plans. In the extremely unlikely event that the delay exceeds 2 days and the weather forecast indicates the impossibility to fly over several more days, on OCN10-PC, OCN18-PC, MAG13-CA and HEB05-CA for safety reason the captain of the vessel may decide to sail back to South America.

Please refer to the Contingency Plan section of our Terms and Conditions for further details.

Antarctica21 {supplier (also referred to as ANTARCTICA XXI)} is in business to help people realize their Antarctic dreams and goals. Antarctica21 will endeavor and strive to do everything in its power to help make their involvement with Antarctica21 and Antarctica a positive and rewarding experience. To this end Antarctica21 strongly advises that all travelers carefully read these Terms and Conditions, as all rights and obligations between Antarctica21 and each passenger will be governed by these as herewith described.

Description of the Program

The program that Antarctica21 is offering to the participants is described for each corresponding tour.

General Booking Terms

The following booking terms will apply in the case of individual bookings; in the case of charters (booking of the entire tour and vessel) and groups specific booking terms can be negotiated and agreed upon by separate contract.

  • A deposit shall be paid to confirm a booking made 120 days prior to the departure date or earlier.
  • The balance shall be paid no later than 120 days before the departure date.
  • If a reservation is made less than 120 days prior to the departure date, the total cost of the tour is due at once.
  • The Participation Form duly filled by the passenger must be received by Antarctica21 no later than 120 days prior to the departure date of the tour. In the case of a booking made less than 120 days prior to the departure date, the Participation Form must be received immediately after the confirmation of the reservation by Antarctica21. Once the Participation Form has been submitted, it is the traveller’s responsibility to communicate to Antarctica21 any applicable changes or updates to the information provided.

Failure to comply with any of the above requirements entitles Antarctica21 to cancel the booking and withhold return of all payments received. The payment of a deposit or of any payment for a reservation on this tour, and the submission of the Participation Form, shall constitute consent to all the provisions contained herein. With this, the passenger understands and accepts all provisions without restriction, including their consequences, contained in Antarctica21’s Terms and Conditions.

Payment, Cancellation and Refund Policies The following payment, cancellation and refund policy will apply in the case of individual bookings; in the case of charters (booking of the entire tour and vessel) or group bookings specific payment, cancellation and refund terms can be negotiated and agreed upon by separate contract. In the case of cancellation of a booking, which must be done in writing by the passenger, the following terms will apply:

  • Cancellation received up to 180 days prior to departure: there will be a full refund of the deposit received less a $ 500 USD per person processing fee.
  • Cancellation received between 179 and 120 days prior to departure: there will be no refund of the deposit paid.
  • Cancellation received between 119 and 90 days prior to departure: there will be a refund of 15 % of the amount paid, provided that the final payment has been received.
  • Cancellation received between 89 and 60 days prior to departure: there will be a refund of 10 % of the amount paid, provided that the final payment has been received.
  • Cancellation received between 59 and 30 days prior to departure: there will be a refund of 5 % of the amount paid, provided that the final payment has been received.
  • Cancellation received between 29 and the departure date: there will be no refund whatsoever.

Upon cancellation, the passenger releases the cancelled cabin and all rights over it to Antarctica21.

Antarctica21 reserves the right to cancel a tour prior to the scheduled date of departure for any reason whatsoever. The decision to cancel a tour is within the sole and absolute discretion of Antarctica21. In the event of such a cancellation, all monies received by Antarctica21 from the passenger or the passenger’s booking agent for that tour will be refunded, including the deposit mentioned in the General Booking Terms. Antarctica21 shall not be liable for any special or consequential damages, whether known or unknown, neither for any costs of air ticket, hotel or similar expenses that the passenger may have incurred in or will incur in, under any circumstances whatsoever.

Antarctica21 also reserves the right (in its sole and absolute discretion) to alter or omit any part of the itinerary with due notice to the passengers wherever practicable. Such rescheduling does not constitute a cancellation by Antarctica21. All reasonable efforts will be made by Antarctica21 to ensure that the passenger’s travel objectives are met. Antarctica21 strongly recommends all passengers to purchase a travel cancellation and interruption insurance as protection against an unforeseen event which may force them to cancel their booking before departure or leave a tour while it is in progress.

Prices

The prices of tours are indicated in U.S. dollars (USD). Prices quoted are based on tariffs, exchange rates, and fuel prices in effect at time of publication and are subject to change prior to departure. Substantial changes in taxes, tariffs, exchange rates and fuel prices can increase the cost of expedition arrangements significantly. Antarctica21 reserves the right to alter prices or introduce surcharges accordingly, even when payment has already been received in full.

Responsibility

Antarctica21 is not responsible for any expenses incurred by the passenger or passenger’s booking agents in preparing for the voyage, including non-refundable or penalty-carrying airline tickets, special clothing, visa or passport fees or other voyage related expenses. A tight time-schedule connection with an Antarctic voyage is unwise. For this reason, Antarctica21 strongly suggests that a flexible air ticket be held for your journey home. In no case is Antarctica21 responsible for any expense or penalty incurred by the passenger or passenger’s booking agents deriving from a change in the ending date of the tour.

Participants should understand that there are certain known and unknown hazards involved in Antarctic voyages, which they accept willingly and voluntarily at their own risk at the moment of forwarding the deposit. Antarctica21 will not be liable for any illness, injury or death sustained during a tour, nor will it be liable for any uninsured loss or damage of property of any participant, whether caused in whole or in part by the negligence of the owners, directors, agents, officers, employees, contractors or subcontractors of Antarctica21, or those acting as its agents.

Antarctica21 shall not be responsible for any injury to persons (whether or not resulting in death) or damage to property arising out of any act of war, terrorism, insurrection, revolt or other civil or military uprising occurring in the countries of origin, destination or passage. Antarctica21 acts only as agent on behalf of shipping and transport companies, airlines, hotels, and other suppliers providing services that are included in the tour, and as such Antarctica21 will exercise every possible care. However Antarctica21, its subsidiaries and/or associated agents shall not be held responsible for property loss or damage and/or any damages resulting from illness, personal injuries or death that may be sustained by reason of, or while engaged in, any tour whether due to the ownership, Passengers accept Antarctica21’s authority (whether it be a Captain, Expedition Leader, Operations Manager or Field Guide) to make decisions affecting the group or individuals. For instance, an individual may be denied participation in a tour, or his/her participation in certain activities may be denied or restricted by an Antarctica21 leader, if that individual’s health is at risk, if an illegal act is committed, or if his/her behavior becomes detrimental to the safety, enjoyment or wellbeing of the group. Should an Antarctica21 leader take such action, that person would not be entitled to any refund whatsoever. If the disturbing behavior or damage (as described above) should occur, all costs resulting from this shall be charged to the passenger.

Baggage

The passenger’s baggage, including all his/her belongings, is under his/ her sole and exclusive care and responsibility. The passenger accepts that Antarctica21 shall have no liability for loss or damage howsoever caused, even if by the negligence of the company. Antarctica21 strongly recommends to passengers to obtain insurance for all baggage and other personal property.

The passenger is not allowed to transport, not bring or have aboard any firearms, flammable or hazardous items, controlled or prohibited substances or drugs, contraband or items prohibited by any country or port or airport to be visited, or any other item that is not admitted by the Passenger Contract of shipping and transport companies, airlines, hotels, and other suppliers providing services that are included in the tour.

On the flights to and from Antarctica, the maximum baggage allowance for each passenger, including hand luggage, is 20 kg (44 lb.). Baggage exceeding the maximum weight will be refused on board the aircraft and will not be allowed. Excess baggage allowance cannot be purchased. For

Air-Cruises starting in Punta Arenas, exceeding luggage will be kept in custody and will be returned to passengers upon their return from Antarctica.

Use of Personal Equipment

Antarctica21 does not allow the use of motorized or naturally powered equipment by passengers during its expeditions. This includes the use of unmanned aerial vehicles (drones), radio-controlled surface and underwater vehicles, kites, and all types of equipment that could result in contamination of the Antarctica environment or harm to its wildlife.

Use of Personal Data

Passengers’ personal data collected by Antarctica21 are used exclusively to provide the services of the tour booked, and to manage the passenger’s security, safety, and wellbeing during the tour. As necessary, data will be shared with third party service providers, such as transportation, accommodation, and insurance providers, who collaborate with Antarctica21 on the delivery of the tour. Data will also be shared with authorities as required by law, regulation, or court orders.

Photography and Video

Passengers extend Antarctica21 permission to take their photograph and video during the voyage and authorize Antarctica21 to make use of such photographs and video for promotional and to illustrate the trips organized by the company. Passengers who do not wish to be photographed or videotaped during the voyage must inform Antarctica21 in writing, prior to the voyage. Antarctica21 will not be held responsible for the usage of photographs and/or videos taken by third parties during the tour.

Law and Jurisdiction

This Agreement, its interpretation, and any dispute hereunder shall be governed by and construed in accordance with the laws and the jurisdiction of the Republic of Chile, with the only exception of the maritime cruise, which is ruled by specific provisions contained in the Cruise Contract. In case of any dispute, the Spanish text of Antarctica21’s Terms and Conditions is applicable.

Contingency Plan

A Contingency Plan is in place for those cases when weather conditions require that the day of operation of the flight between Punta Arenas and Antarctica is modified from the itinerary. The purpose of the Contingency Plan is to provide travelers with a flexible travel experience that adapts to the weather conditions, and to provide a refund of the cruise fare in case weather conditions prevent clients from reaching Antarctica.

Contingency Plan For Antarctica Express Air-Cruises starting in Ushuaia

In the case of a delay on the return flight to Punta Arenas from Antarctica, passengers on board the ship will continue cruising to nearby places until the return flight to Punta Arenas is authorized. Full board and all excursions are included. No refund will be extended for any reason whatsoever.

Contingency Plan for Classic Antarctica

Air-Cruises, Polar Circle Air-Cruises, South Georgia and Antarctica Air-Cruise, and Antarctica Express Air-Cruises starting in Punta Arenas Outbound flight to Antarctica · Between Day 1 and until 2PM on Day 4 every effort will be made to transport passengers to Antarctica taking into consideration their safety and the safety of the aircraft. The daily program described below will apply:

Day 2: Guided tours to sites of historic and wildlife interest in Punta Arenas will be provided. Meals are included as well as accommodation at the same hotel included on Day 1 of the itinerary.

Day 3: Guided tours to sites of historic and wildlife interest in Punta Arenas will be provided. Meals are included as well as accommodation at the same hotel included on Day 1 of the itinerary.

Day 4: If by 2 PM Antarctica21 will not be able to transport passengers to Antarctica, the trip will be interrupted. Accommodation with breakfast in a 3-star hotel in Punta Arenas will be provided. No other services or meals will be included. Antarctica21 or, if applicable, the traveller’s booking agent will refund to each passenger 100 % the cruise fare paid for the expedition.

Day 5: Group airport transfers are provided. No other services or meals are included.

Return Flight from Antarctica: In case the return flight to Punta Arenas is moved forward, passengers will disembark the ship and fly to Punta Arenas up to one day earlier than indicated in the itinerary. On arrival, accommodation at the Cabo de Hornos Hotel or similar will be provided. All other inclusions will remain per the original itinerary. In the case of a delay on the return flight to Punta Arenas from Antarctica, passengers on board the ship will continue cruising to nearby places until the return flight to Punta Arenas is authorized. Full board and all excursions are included. The trip will end at the Punta Arenas airport. No refund will be extended for any reason whatsoever.

Note on Polar Circle Air-Cruises OCN10-PC and OCN18-PC and on Classic Antarctica

Air-Cruises MAG13-CA and HEB05-CA: In the case of a protracted delay of the return flight to Punta Arenas from Antarctica, the ship will sail across the Drake Passage to Puerto Williams, Chile. Upon arrival a charter flight will take travelers to the Punta Arenas airport where the trip will end.

Important Notice on Refunding: Refunding will take place as soon as possible through the same channel used for booking and will release Antarctica21 from any further liability.

The Nature of Expedition Travel

The air-cruise expeditions are suitable for adventurous travelers who enjoy full mobility and reasonably good health. Expedition travel to Antarctica requires flexibility and adaptation to ever-changing circumstances. There is no airport or port infrastructure at King George Island, or anywhere in the Antarctic Peninsula. Travelers reach the ship by Zodiac boat.

Your Travel Companions

Each year travelers are welcomed from over 40 different countries. They may travel alone, as a family, or as part of a group. While some of your traveling companions may speak different languages and have different customs, they will share your passion for adventure and interest in the natural world.

About Your Arrival and Departure

If you are joining an air-cruise starting in Punta Arenas, you must plan to arrive with a flight that is scheduled to land in Punta Arenas no later than 2 PM on Day 1 of the itinerary. The same deadline applies to travelers arriving directly at the hotel on Day 1. That afternoon, all travelers must attend a mandatory safety and Antarctic guidelines briefing, and an information session covering important practical details. You must also attend a fitting session for your expedition boots. Participation in these activities is essential for the success of the expedition. Travelers who miss the 2 PM arrival deadline will be considered “no-show”. They will not be able to participate in the expedition and will receive no refund. Remember that scheduling tight connections is never wise when traveling to remote places with limited services. Protect your travel investment by building some buffer in your travel plans in case of problems with luggage delivery, flight delays etc. In case your flight to Punta Arenas is delayed for reasons beyond your control, the supplier will do everything possible to accommodate your late arrival. However, the supplier cannot assume any responsibility for any resulting complications, including your inability to join the expedition. We recommend that you purchase a trip cancellation and interruption insurance policy to cover this risk.

For Antarctica Express Air-Cruises: boarding in Ushuaia is between 3 PM and 4 PM, directly at the pier. At 4 PM boarding will close.

We strongly suggests that any travel plans made for the last day of the expedition do not start until the late afternoon, and that a flexible air ticket be held for your journey home in case you need to change your travel arrangement following a delay of the return flight form Antarctica. Please ask your travel consultant for assistance. See also the sections on possible flight delays and related contingency plans further down.

Participation Form

Participants are required to fill and sign an on-line Participation Form, and to return it at least 120 days prior to departure. Participants 75 years of age and older must submit a medical certificate.

Medical Insurance

We require participants to be adequately covered by a travel insurance policy that covers Aero-Medical evacuation from Antarctica as a result of a medical emergency during the trips, including emergencies related to pre-existing health conditions.

Cancellation Insurance

We strongly urges participants to be adequately covered by trip cancellation and interruption insurance.

Itinerary

Every effort will be made to adhere to the planned program. However, with this type of adventurous travel to Antarctica, changes to the itinerary may occur due to severe and changeable weather. We need to emphasize the fact that weather conditions are unpredictable and that safety is always the paramount concern on any Antarctic voyage. For this reason the supplier reserves the right to change the itinerary described due to weather conditions or other factors beyond their control without consulting the participants.

Baggage and Baggage Allowance

We recommend that clients avoid expensive designer luggage that is easily damaged. We also strongly recommend that clients take out a luggage insurance policy that covers the cost of repairs or replacement in case their luggage is damaged. Due to the nature of the expedition, and as stated in our Terms and Conditions of Sale, we cannot be responsible for any damage to a customer’s luggage.

The maximum weight allowed on the flights to and from Antarctica is 20 kg (44 Lb.) per passenger, including hand luggage. For Classic Antarctica and Polar Circle Air-Cruises, excess luggage will be kept in custody in Punta Arenas and will be handed over to travelers upon their return from Antarctica. For Antarctica Express Air-Cruises, excess luggage will be disembarked at Port Williams and will be sent to Punta Arenas by air cargo at the traveler’s expense. It will be available for pick up in Punta Arenas upon the traveler’s return from Antarctica. The baggage weight limit is a technical requirement imposed by the flight operation. Unfortunately, it is not possible to purchase extra allowance.

Note: At certain points during the expedition you will be required to handle your own luggage.

Expedition Language

The official expedition language of our air-cruises is English. The voyage will take travelers to remote destinations where the interaction with our polar guides is essential. In the interest of safety and for the enjoyment of the experience we strongly recommend that travelers who do not understand English are accompanied by someone who does, such as a friend, a family member, or a Tour Leader.

Possible Flight Delays and Contingency Plan Flights to and from Antarctica operate based on weather conditions. While historically only a minority of flights have experienced a delay, you should be prepared for that possibility.

Possible Flight Delays and Contingency Plan

Flights to and from Antarctica operate based on weather conditions. While historically only a minority of flights have experienced a delay, you should be prepared for that possibility.

Suggested Clothing

The average temperature in the Antarctic Peninsula area during the austral summer is about 0°C (32°F), although sometimes it may feel a little lower because of the wind chill factor. For this reason, it is best to wear several layers of light, warm clothing. The suggested clothing for Antarctica is very similar to that recommended for skiing: thermal underwear, a couple of warm and wicking mid layers, and windproof and waterproof jacket and pants as the outer layer. You will also need a hat, a scarf, waterproof and insulated gloves, and sunglasses with high UV protection. The pre-departure material provides further details.

Waterproof Boots

As most landings in Antarctica are “wet landings”, the best footwear is knee-high waterproof boots. You will not need to carry them with you, for you will be loaned a pair of thermal rubber boots before arriving in Antarctica.

Face Protection

Good quality UV filtering sunglasses are essential. Glacier glasses have leather flaps at the sides to stop the light from passing through. Due to the high reflectance of UV radiation, you will also need good sun block lotion for your face (Protection factor 30 and above) and lip balm.

Photography

To see the wildlife you should have a good pair of lightweight binoculars (the suggested magnification is 7× or 8×). If you are passionate about photography, do not forget a good zoom lens to shoot wildlife while avoiding close approaches. Also, take with you a good supply of memory cards and spare batteries since cold temperatures can reduce their life span. The recreational use of drones is not allowed in Antarctica.

Furthermore…

Do not forget to take with you:

    • Personal medications.
    • Waterproof backpack to carry your belongings during shore excursions.