Immerse yourself in the unimaginable beauty of the Antarctic Peninsula, where vast glaciers tumble into the sea, penguins are dwarfed by soaring peaks and humpback and minke whales feast on abundant krill.
Flying across the Drake Passage either one-way or both ways allows a bird's-eye view of the ice-strewn landscape and quicker access to Antarctica, with more time to spend exploring the magnificent ice-covered wonders of the Frozen Continent. In true expedition style, the Expedition Leader will work closely with the Captain to maximise opportunities for adventure and exploration based on prevailing weather, wildlife activity and sea/ice conditions. Inflatable Zodiac boats provide opportunities for up-close explorations to places which would otherwise be inaccessible.
AE100 Operated by Aurora Expeditions
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1 Mar 2021 Itinerary
Day 1 - Punta Arenas (Chile)
Transfer from the airport to your hotel in Punta Arenas (preferred flights only). Request your Aurora Expeditions luggage tag from the hotel check-in staff and label with your name and ship cabin number. Tonight, meet fellow expeditioners at a briefing for the first leg of the expedition - the flight to Antarctica.
Day 2 - Punta Arenas - King George Island (South Shetland Islands)
Transfer to the airport for the early morning flight to King George Island (weather permitting) and embark ship. (D)
Day 3 - 8 - Antarctic Peninsula
Explore the western side of the Antarctic Peninsula and the South Shetland Islands. Being so far south, there are approximately 18-24 hours of daylight and the days can be as busy as you wish. The experienced Expedition Team will use their expertise to design your voyage from day to day, choosing the best options based on the prevailing weather, ice conditions and wildlife opportunities. Landings or Zodiac excursions are generally made twice a day; join Zodiac cruises along spectacular ice cliffs or among icebergs, watching for whales, seals and penguins and head ashore to visit penguin rookeries, discover historic huts, wander along pebbly beaches or up snow-covered ridges with mountains towering overhead and ice-strewn oceans below. If you have chosen an optional activity, you’ll have the chance to do that whenever conditions allow, and adventurers will have the chance to take the polar plunge - conditions permitting. There may be the chance to cruise some of the narrow, dramatic straits separating offshore islands from the mainland, or sail scenic bays to enjoy whale-watching. Listen out for the rumble of glaciers as they carve their way to the sea, and enjoy a quiet moment to experience the tranquillity of this incredible white continent. (B,L,D)
Day 9 - 10 - Drake Passage
Enter the Drake Passage for the return journey to South America. Enjoy lectures and film presentations whilst cruising, and weather and time permitting, the Captain may sail close to legendary Cape Horn. (B,L,D)
Day 11 - Ushuaia (Argentina)
Cruise up the Beagle Channel to Ushuaia, disembark ship and transfer to downtown Ushuaia. (B)
In true expedition style we encourage exploration and adventure, offering a flexibility that puts you in the heart of the action. This itinerary is only a guide and subject to change due to ice and weather conditions. Please note King George Island is located at the northern part of the Antarctic Peninsula in the South Shetland Islands and is one of the most remote places on Earth. A clear sky with perfect visibility is required in order for the plane to take off and land safely. We apologise in advance for any delays.
16, 19 Jan 2022 Itinerary
Day 1 - Ushuaia (Argentina)
Arrive in Ushuaia, where you will be met by a representative of Aurora Expeditions and transferred to your group hotel (preferred flights only). Upon arrival at your included hotel, kindly remind hotel check-in staff to provide you with Aurora Expeditions cabin tags. Please clearly label the tags with your name and ship cabin number.
Day 2 - Ushuaia
Transfer from the hotel to the port to embark the ship. After embarkation, you’ll have time to settle into your cabin before our important mandatory briefings. As the ship pulls away from port, we’ll gather on the deck to commence our adventure with spectacular views over Ushuaia and Tierra del Fuego. This evening, get to know your fellow expeditioners and friendly expedition team and crew at a welcome dinner. (B,D)
Day 3 - Drake Passage
As we commence the Drake Passage crossing, we make the most of our time getting comfortable with the motions of the sea. Our expedition team prepare you for our first landing with important wildlife guidelines and biosecurity procedures, and start our lecture program to help you learn more about Antarctica’s history, wildlife and environment. (B,L,D)
Day 4 - Drake Passage - South Shetland Islands (Antarctica)
Nearing the South Shetland Islands and the tip of the Antarctic Peninsula, the excitement is palpable with everyone converging on one of the observation decks, watching for our first iceberg. Weather permitting, we may attempt our first landing in Antarctica by late afternoon. (B,L,D)
Day 5-9 - Antarctic Peninsula
Explore the western side of the Antarctic Peninsula and the South Shetland Islands. Being so far south, there are approximately 18-24 hours of daylight and the days can be as busy as you wish. The experienced Expedition Team will use their expertise to design your voyage from day to day, choosing the best options based on the prevailing weather, ice conditions and wildlife opportunities. Landings or Zodiac excursions are generally made twice a day; join Zodiac cruises along spectacular ice cliffs or among icebergs, watching for whales, seals and penguins and head ashore to visit penguin rookeries, discover historic huts, wander along pebbly beaches or up snow-covered ridges with mountains towering overhead and ice-strewn oceans below. If you have chosen an optional activity, you’ll have the chance to do that whenever conditions allow, and adventurers will have the chance to take the polar plunge - conditions permitting. There may be the chance to cruise some of the narrow, dramatic straits separating offshore islands from the mainland, or sail scenic bays to enjoy whale-watching. Listen out for the rumble of glaciers as they carve their way to the sea, and enjoy a quiet moment to experience the tranquillity of this incredible white continent. (B,L,D)
Day 10 - King George Island - Punta Arenas (Chile)
As we approach Frei Base on King George Island, it is time to farewell Antarctica and our amazing adventure before boarding our flight (approximately one-and-a half-hours) to Punta Arenas, Chile. The permitted luggage allowance is 20 kilograms of check-in luggage plus one piece of carry-on luggage weighing no more than seven kilos. On arrival at the Punta Arenas airport, you will be transferred to our group hotel. NOTE: King George Island is located at the northern tip of the Antarctic Peninsula in the South Shetland Islands and is one of the most remote place on Earth. A clear sky with perfect visibility is required in order to take off and land safely. We apologise in advance if you experience any delays. (B)
Day 11 - Punta Arenas
After breakfast, bid a fond farewell to your fellow travellers. (B)
In true expedition style we encourage exploration and adventure, offering a flexibility that puts you in the heart of the action. This itinerary is only a guide and subject to change due to ice and weather conditions. Please note King George Island is located at the northern part of the Antarctic Peninsula in the South Shetland Islands and is one of the most remote places on Earth. A clear sky with perfect visibility is required in order for the plane to take off and land safely. We apologise in advance for any delays.
24 Jan 2022 Itinerary
Day 1 - Punta Arenas (Chile)
Transfer from the airport to your hotel in Punta Arenas (preferred flights only). Request your Aurora Expeditions luggage tag from the hotel check-in staff and label with your name and ship cabin number. Tonight, meet fellow expeditioners at a briefing for the first leg of the expedition - the flight to Antarctica.
Day 2 - Punta Arenas - King George Island (South Shetland Islands)
Transfer to the airport for the early morning flight to King George Island (weather permitting) and embark ship. NOTE: Please be advised that the permitted luggage allowance is 20 kilograms of check-in luggage plus one piece of carry-on luggage weighing no more than seven kilos. (D)
Days 3-10 - Antarctic Peninsula
Explore the western side of the Antarctic Peninsula and the South Shetland Islands. Being so far south, there are approximately 18-24 hours of daylight and the days can be as busy as you wish. The experienced Expedition Team will use their expertise to design your voyage from day to day, choosing the best options based on the prevailing weather, ice conditions and wildlife opportunities. Landings or Zodiac excursions are generally made twice a day; join Zodiac cruises along spectacular ice cliffs or among icebergs, watching for whales, seals and penguins and head ashore to visit penguin rookeries, discover historic huts, wander along pebbly beaches or up snow-covered ridges with mountains towering overhead and ice-strewn oceans below. If you have chosen an optional activity, you’ll have the chance to do that whenever conditions allow, and adventurers will have the chance to take the polar plunge - conditions permitting. There may be the chance to cruise some of the narrow, dramatic straits separating offshore islands from the mainland, or sail scenic bays to enjoy whale-watching. Listen out for the rumble of glaciers as they carve their way to the sea, and enjoy a quiet moment to experience the tranquillity of this incredible white continent. (B,L,D)
Day 11 - King George Island - Punta Arenas (Chile)
As we approach Frei Base on King George Island, it is time to farewell Antarctica and our amazing adventure before boarding our flight (approximately one-and-a half-hours) to Punta Arenas, Chile. The permitted luggage allowance is 20 kilograms of check-in luggage plus one piece of carry-on luggage weighing no more than seven kilos. On arrival at the Punta Arenas airport, you will be transferred to our group hotel. NOTE: King George Island is located at the northern tip of the Antarctic Peninsula in the South Shetland Islands and is one of the most remote place on Earth. A clear sky with perfect visibility is required in order to take off and land safely. We apologise in advance if you experience any delays. (B)
Day 12 - Punta Arenas
After breakfast, bid a fond farewell to your fellow travellers. (B)
In true expedition style we encourage exploration and adventure, offering a flexibility that puts you in the heart of the action. This itinerary is only a guide and subject to change due to ice and weather conditions. Please note King George Island is located at the northern part of the Antarctic Peninsula in the South Shetland Islands and is one of the most remote places on Earth. A clear sky with perfect visibility is required in order for the plane to take off and land safely. We apologise in advance for any delays.
2, 5 Feb 2022 Itinerary
Day 1 - Punta Arenas (Chile)
Transfer from the airport to your hotel in Punta Arenas (preferred flights only). Request your Aurora Expeditions luggage tag from the hotel check-in staff and label with your name and ship cabin number. Tonight, meet fellow expeditioners at a briefing for the first leg of the expedition - the flight to Antarctica.
Day 2 - Punta Arenas - King George Island (South Shetland Islands)
Transfer to the airport for the early morning flight to King George Island (weather permitting) and embark ship. NOTE: Please be advised that the permitted luggage allowance is 20 kilograms of check-in luggage plus one piece of carry-on luggage weighing no more than seven kilos. (D)
Days 3-9 - Antarctic Peninsula
Explore the western side of the Antarctic Peninsula and the South Shetland Islands. Being so far south, there are approximately 18-24 hours of daylight and the days can be as busy as you wish. The experienced Expedition Team will use their expertise to design your voyage from day to day, choosing the best options based on the prevailing weather, ice conditions and wildlife opportunities. Landings or Zodiac excursions are generally made twice a day; join Zodiac cruises along spectacular ice cliffs or among icebergs, watching for whales, seals and penguins and head ashore to visit penguin rookeries, discover historic huts, wander along pebbly beaches or up snow-covered ridges with mountains towering overhead and ice-strewn oceans below. If you have chosen an optional activity, you’ll have the chance to do that whenever conditions allow, and adventurers will have the chance to take the polar plunge - conditions permitting. There may be the chance to cruise some of the narrow, dramatic straits separating offshore islands from the mainland, or sail scenic bays to enjoy whale-watching. Listen out for the rumble of glaciers as they carve their way to the sea, and enjoy a quiet moment to experience the tranquillity of this incredible white continent. (B,L,D)
Days 10-11 - Drake Passage
Enter the Drake Passage for the return journey to South America. Enjoy lectures and film presentations whilst cruising, and weather and time permitting, the Captain may sail close to legendary Cape Horn. (B,L,D)
Day 12 - Ushuaia
Cruise up the Beagle Channel to Ushuaia, disembark ship and transfer to downtown Ushuaia. (B)
In true expedition style we encourage exploration and adventure, offering a flexibility that puts you in the heart of the action. This itinerary is only a guide and subject to change due to ice and weather conditions. Please note King George Island is located at the northern part of the Antarctic Peninsula in the South Shetland Islands and is one of the most remote places on Earth. A clear sky with perfect visibility is required in order for the plane to take off and land safely. We apologise in advance for any delays.
21 Feb 2022 Itinerary
Day 1 - Punta Arenas (Chile)
Transfer from the airport to your hotel in Punta Arenas (preferred flights only). Request your Aurora Expeditions luggage tag from the hotel check-in staff and label with your name and ship cabin number. Tonight, meet fellow expeditioners at a briefing for the first leg of the expedition - the flight to Antarctica.
Day 2 - Punta Arenas - King George Island (South Shetland Islands)
Transfer to the airport for the early morning flight to King George Island (weather permitting) and embark ship. NOTE: Please be advised that the permitted luggage allowance is 20 kilograms of check-in luggage plus one piece of carry-on luggage weighing no more than seven kilos. (D)
Days 3-9 - Antarctic Peninsula
Explore the western side of the Antarctic Peninsula and the South Shetland Islands. Being so far south, there are approximately 18-24 hours of daylight and the days can be as busy as you wish. The experienced Expedition Team will use their expertise to design your voyage from day to day, choosing the best options based on the prevailing weather, ice conditions and wildlife opportunities. Landings or Zodiac excursions are generally made twice a day; join Zodiac cruises along spectacular ice cliffs or among icebergs, watching for whales, seals and penguins and head ashore to visit penguin rookeries, discover historic huts, wander along pebbly beaches or up snow-covered ridges with mountains towering overhead and ice-strewn oceans below. If you have chosen an optional activity, you’ll have the chance to do that whenever conditions allow, and adventurers will have the chance to take the polar plunge - conditions permitting. There may be the chance to cruise some of the narrow, dramatic straits separating offshore islands from the mainland, or sail scenic bays to enjoy whale-watching. Listen out for the rumble of glaciers as they carve their way to the sea, and enjoy a quiet moment to experience the tranquillity of this incredible white continent. (B,L,D)
Day 10 - Antarctic Peninsula - King George Island - Punta Arenas (Chile)
As we approach Frei Base on King George Island, it is time to farewell Antarctica and our amazing adventure before boarding our flight (approximately one-and-a half-hours) to Punta Arenas, Chile. The permitted luggage allowance is 20 kilograms of check-in luggage plus one piece of carry-on luggage weighing no more than seven kilos. On arrival at the Punta Arenas airport, you will be transferred to our group hotel. NOTE: King George Island is located at the northern tip of the Antarctic Peninsula in the South Shetland Islands and is one of the most remote place on Earth. A clear sky with perfect visibility is required in order to take off and land safely. We apologise in advance if you experience any delays. (B)
Day 11 - Punta Arenas
After breakfast, bid a fond farewell to your fellow travellers. (B)
In true expedition style we encourage exploration and adventure, offering a flexibility that puts you in the heart of the action. This itinerary is only a guide and subject to change due to ice and weather conditions. Please note King George Island is located at the northern part of the Antarctic Peninsula in the South Shetland Islands and is one of the most remote places on Earth. A clear sky with perfect visibility is required in order for the plane to take off and land safely. We apologise in advance for any delays.
6 Mar 2022 Itinerary
Day 1 - Punta Arenas (Chile)
Transfer from the airport to your hotel in Punta Arenas (preferred flights only). Request your Aurora Expeditions luggage tag from the hotel check-in staff and label with your name and ship cabin number. Tonight, meet fellow expeditioners at a briefing for the first leg of the expedition - the flight to Antarctica.
Day 2 - Punta Arenas - King George Island (South Shetland Islands)
Transfer to the airport for the early morning flight to King George Island (weather permitting) and embark ship. NOTE: Please be advised that the permitted luggage allowance is 20 kilograms of check-in luggage plus one piece of carry-on luggage weighing no more than seven kilos. (D)
Days 3-7 - Antarctic Peninsula
Explore the western side of the Antarctic Peninsula and the South Shetland Islands. Being so far south, there are approximately 18-24 hours of daylight and the days can be as busy as you wish. The experienced Expedition Team will use their expertise to design your voyage from day to day, choosing the best options based on the prevailing weather, ice conditions and wildlife opportunities. Landings or Zodiac excursions are generally made twice a day; join Zodiac cruises along spectacular ice cliffs or among icebergs, watching for whales, seals and penguins and head ashore to visit penguin rookeries, discover historic huts, wander along pebbly beaches or up snow-covered ridges with mountains towering overhead and ice-strewn oceans below. If you have chosen an optional activity, you’ll have the chance to do that whenever conditions allow, and adventurers will have the chance to take the polar plunge - conditions permitting. There may be the chance to cruise some of the narrow, dramatic straits separating offshore islands from the mainland, or sail scenic bays to enjoy whale-watching. Listen out for the rumble of glaciers as they carve their way to the sea, and enjoy a quiet moment to experience the tranquillity of this incredible white continent. (B,L,D)
Days 8-9 - Drake Passage
Enter the Drake Passage for the return journey to South America. Enjoy lectures and film presentations whilst cruising, and weather and time permitting, the Captain may sail close to legendary Cape Horn. (B,L,D)
Day 10 - Ushuaia (Argentina)
Cruise up the Beagle Channel to Ushuaia, disembark ship and transfer to downtown Ushuaia. (B)
In true expedition style we encourage exploration and adventure, offering a flexibility that puts you in the heart of the action. This itinerary is only a guide and subject to change due to ice and weather conditions. Please note King George Island is located at the northern part of the Antarctic Peninsula in the South Shetland Islands and is one of the most remote places on Earth. A clear sky with perfect visibility is required in order for the plane to take off and land safely. We apologise in advance for any delays.