Famed for its spectacular icebergs, abundant wildlife and rich history, the Antarctic Peninsula offers unsurpassed opportunities for exploration.
Flying across the Drake Passage either one-way or both ways allows you to admire the vast Antarctic landscape from above, and is the most direct route to and from the White Continent. During your expedition, you'll discover the place where Shackelton and his crew were forced to abandon their ship, and be amazed by the array of wildlife which calls the Antarctic Peninsula home. The experienced Expedition Team will accompany thrilling Zodiac landings and excursions, taking you to rarely-visited places and those which would otherwise be inaccessible.
AE106 Operated by Aurora Expeditions
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3 Mar 2020 - ANW002G
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). On arrival into King George Island, the expedition team will greet you for your Zodiac transfer to embark the ship. Settle into the cabin before important briefings. (D)
Days 3-10 - Weddell Sea - West Antarctic Peninsula
The Weddell Sea is high on the list for most polar adventurers, and was where Sir Ernest Shackleton's ship, the Endurance, became stuck in sea ice. A small group of islands to the east of the Antarctic Peninsula form the Antarctic Sound, gateway to the Weddell Sea. Navigation is extremely difficult due to the ice and fossils are a reminder of a more temperate era. Possible wildlife encounters include a large Adelie penguin colony just outside of the Antarctic Sound. During Zodiac trips, keep an eye out for chinstrap and gentoo penguins, as well as humpback, minke and orca whales. Continue to the western side of the Antarctic Peninsula where you'll experience approximately 18-24 hours of daylight. You may be able to enjoy two Zodiac landings and excursions a day. In addition to Zodiac cruising, shore excursions and optional activities, the ship may be able to cruise narrow straits and enter scenic bays to watch whales feeding. (B,L,D)
Days 11-12 - Drake Passage Crossing
Today, landings come to an end as you cruise the Drake Passage to Ushuaia. Weather and time permitting, the Captain may cruise close to the famous Cape Horn. (B,L,D)
Day 13 - Ushuaia (Argentina)
This morning, cruise the Beagle Channel to Ushuaia where you'll disembark. A transfer to downtown Ushuaiai before continuing to the airport is included. (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 2021 - ANW002G
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). On arrival into King George Island, the expedition team will greet you for your Zodiac transfer to embark the ship. Settle into the cabin before important briefings. (D)
Days 3-9 - Weddell Sea - West Antarctic Peninsula
The Weddell Sea is high on the list for most polar adventurers, and was where Sir Ernest Shackleton's ship, the Endurance, became stuck in sea ice. A small group of islands to the east of the Antarctic Peninsula form the Antarctic Sound, gateway to the Weddell Sea. Navigation is extremely difficult due to the ice and fossils are a reminder of a more temperate era. Possible wildlife encounters include a large Adelie penguin colony just outside of the Antarctic Sound. During Zodiac trips, keep an eye out for chinstrap and gentoo penguins, as well as humpback, minke and orca whales. Continue to the western side of the Antarctic Peninsula where you'll experience approximately 18-24 hours of daylight. You may be able to enjoy two Zodiac landings and excursions a day. In addition to Zodiac cruising, shore excursions and optional activities, the ship may be able to cruise narrow straits and enter scenic bays to watch whales feeding. (B,L,D)
Day 10 - King George Island - Punta Arenas (Chile)
Fly from King George Island to Punta Arenas and transfer to your hotel for an overnight stay. (B)
Day 11 - Punta Arenas
After breakfast, check out of the hotel. (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.