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Antarctica Express Air Cruise

King George Island - Ushuaia - Example 7 Day Cruise aboard Magellan Discoverer
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Join this 7-day Antarctica Express Air-Cruise for an efficient way to experience the White Continent aboard the Magellan Discoverer. Begin in an overnight stay Punta Arenas, Chile, then fly to King George Island,  where you will board the expedition vessel to start your Antarctic exploration. Discover the South Shetland Islands, known for ice-filled bays, towering icebergs, and wildlife such as penguins and seals. Continue toward the Drake Passage, watching for whales and seabirds and attending expert-led lectures. Weather permitting, enjoy a rare landing at Cape Horn. Conclude your journey with time in Puerto Williams before arriving in Ushuaia, Argentina.
Air Cruise Flight
Highlights
  • Explore the South Shetland Islands, icebergs, wildlife, and ice-filled bays
  • Sail across the Drake Passage, enjoying wildlife sightings and lectures
  • Visit Puerto Williams, the world’s southernmost town
  • Experience the chance to step ashore at Cape Horn, weather permitting
Activities
Places Visited
Activity Level: Variable
Activity options vary depending on destination and operator. Activity level is determined by the range and intensity of activities you choose to participate in. Discuss with your Trip Planner which options are best for you.
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Full Itinerary

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Day 1: Arrive in Punta Arenas

Arrive in Punta Arenas, Chile, before 2 PM, where you are welcomed by Antarctica21 staff and transferred to your hotel. In the afternoon, you are welcomed at Explorers House to attend a mandatory briefing that provides important information about your trip 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 | Embark

The adventure begins with a two-hour flight from Punta Arenas to King George Island in the South Shetland Islands, where you board the expedition vessel to start your Antarctic exploration.

Please note: If the weather at King George Island does not allow for flights this morning, the ship operators follow their well-established contingency plan, which can be read here.

Day 3: Exploring Antarctica

Explore the stunning beauty of the South Shetland Islands. Sail through ice-filled bays, observing sea birds, penguins, seals, and whales. Board a Zodiac for a memorable shore visit to a penguin colony and take advantage of the extended daylight for evening exploration.

Day 4-5: Drake Passage

Sail north through the Drake Passage while enjoying lectures and presentations. Watch for wildlife from the glass-enclosed lounge or outside decks, spotting magnificent sea birds, like albatrosses and petrels, as well as various whale species.

Day 6: Cape Horn and Puerto Williams

Weather permitting, board a Zodiac to explore the legendary Cape Horn. Then, continue the journey along the Beagle Channel to Puerto Williams, Chile, the world's southernmost town. Explore the area before sailing to Ushuaia, Argentina.

Day 7: Ushuaia | Disembark | Return Home

  • 1 Breakfast
Conclude your adventure by docking in Ushuaia, Argentina, the southernmost city in the world. Disembark and continue with your onward journey.

Ship/Hotel

Magellan Discoverer

Magellan Discoverer

Magellan Discoverer

Magellan Discoverer sails ahead with its cutting-edge hybrid diesel-electric propulsion system and active stabilizers that enable a smoother, quieter journey through the icy wonders. 
Library
Observation Lounge
Lounge

Punta Arenas - Hotels

The hotel surrounded in beautiful white snow

Hotel Plaza Punta Arenas

If you are traveling to Punta Arenas as a tourist or on business, Hotel Plaza will do everything to make your stay enjoyable. They guarantee comfort in a pleasant and friendly atmosphere.  In front of the Plaza de Armas in the heart of the commercial and financial center, the hotel is open all year round willing to offer you the best services on your Patagonia tour.
A view of the Hotel Rey Don Felipe

Hotel Almasur

Stay in the Hotel Almasur on your next visit to Punta Arenas, Chile. A city of strong contrasts and personality, you will find a warm reception at Hotel Almasur, located in the heart of Punta Arenas. Guests will enjoy the historical charm, modern amenities, and technology offered at the Hotel Rey Don Felipe.
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A view of the Cabo de Hornos Hotel

Cabo de Hornos Hotel

The distinguished architecture of Hotel Cabo de Hornos makes it a noble presence - a home away from home which will leave you with unforgettable memories of an unimaginable trip through Chile. The hotel has witnessed over 40 years of development in Punta Arenas. Hotel Cabo de Hornos has been equipped with state-of-the-art communications facilities for your next adventure in Chile.
Distant view of the towers

More Punta Arenas Hotels

Punta Arenas is the gateway to Chilean Patagonia, offering access to Torres del Paine, Antarctica cruises, penguin colonies, and scenic fjords. With charming downtown vibes and nearby wilderness, it’s a must-stop on many tours. Let our Chile experts help plan your adventure!

Dates & Prices

My Preferred Start Date

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Per person starting at
$6,795 2-3 travelers
Triple Veranda Suite
Approx. Size - 52 m² / 560 ft² Connecting door between both cabins Two bathrooms with showers en suite Accommodates three guests Private Balconies Desks and chairs Benches and coffee tables Closets Fridges Safes Coffee makers TVs Beds can be configured as either one king-size bed or two twin beds
Veranda Cabin
Deluxe Veranda Cabin
Approx. Size - 26 m² / 280 ft² Bathroom with shower en suite Private Balcony Desk and chair Bench and coffee table Closets Fridge Coffee maker Safe TV The bed can be configured as either one king-size bed or two twin beds.
Family Suite
Family Suite
Approx. Size - 52 m² / 560 ft² Connecting door between both cabins Two bathrooms with showers en suite Accommodates four guests Private Balconies Desks and chairs Benches and coffee tables Closets Fridges Safes Coffee makers TVs Beds can be configured as either one king-size bed or two twin beds.
Grand Veranda Suite
Grand Veranda Suite
Approx. Size - 38 m² / 409 ft² Bathroom with shower en suite Private Balcony Sofa Bed Living area Desk and chair Walk-in closet Fridge Safe Coffee maker TV The bed can be configured as either one king-size bed or two twin beds.
Veranda Cabin
Single Veranda Cabin
Approx. Size - 26 m² / 280 ft² Bathroom with shower en suite King bed Private Balcony Desk and chair Bench and coffee table Closets Fridge Coffee maker Safe TV
Included
  • 6 Breakfasts, 4 Lunches, 6 Dinners
  • 6 Nights Accommodations
  • Accommodations as listed
  • Ground transportation as listed
  • Activities as listed
  • Meals as listed
  • Access to a 24-7 Emergency line while traveling
  • Wine, beer, juice, and soft drinks served with lunch and dinner on board ship
  • Coffee, tea, chocolate, cappuccino, water and snacks on board ship throughout the expedition
  • IAATO passenger fee 
  • Loan of Waterproof Boots for Landings
  • Comprehensive Pre- and Post-voyage Information Materials
     
  • Lectures and entertainment onboard.
     
  • Daily buffet breakfast and lunch on board the ship offering a wide choice of dishes.
  • Dinner served daily on board the ship offering a choice between one of three main courses.
  • All guided shore excursions.
  • Standard internet service is provided on a complimentary basis. Guests booked in Penthouse Suites on Magellan Explorer and Grand Veranda Suites on Magellan Discoverer enjoy complimentary premium internet service
Excluded
  • Gratuities
  • Travel Insurance
  • Personal Expenses
  • Flight costs (please request a quote)
  • Additional excursions during free time
  • Fuel and transportation surcharges (when applicable)
  • Passport and Applicable Visa Expenses
  • Beverages purchased at the bar 
  • Parkas are not provided on your cruise. Please bring your own windproof, waterproof, insulated parka with you. You will want to make sure it is roomy enough to fit warm layers underneath. Click here for information about parka rentals for Antarctica voyages. 
  • All participants in an Antarctica 21 expedition are required to have a travel insurance policy.  A comprehensive policy is recommended but, at a minimum, Medical Evacuation coverage up to $100,000 USD is required.

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