Punta Arenas is one of the main departure points for exploring the southernmost tip of the planet. Learn about travel options, the recommended season, and indicative prices to plan this adventure.
Some places feel like another world. Antarctica is one of them: huge icebergs floating in crystal-clear waters, glaciers, and remarkable marine wildlife alongside the ships as they pass.
From Punta Arenas, you can set off on this adventure aboard Antarctica cruises from Chile and, with the fly & cruise option, fly straight to King George Island to explore one of the most pristine and remote territories on the planet, where glaciers, ocean, and wildlife coexist in an almost untouched environment.
Cover photo: Antarctica21
What is it like to travel on an Antarctica cruise from Chile?
From Punta Arenas, there are two main ways to reach Antarctica: expedition cruises that make the sea crossing through the Drake Passage and fly & cruise programs, which combine flights and sailing.
This latter option is offered by the Chilean company Antarctica21. Its Classic Antarctica Air-Cruise program begins with a charter flight of around two hours to King George Island, in the South Shetland Islands. From there, passengers board an expedition ship to continue on to the Antarctic Peninsula.
The main advantage is that it lets you avoid the sea crossing of the Drake Passage, famous for its challenging sailing conditions. This leg can take around 48 hours each way, leaving more time to explore Antarctica’s landscapes and wildlife.
During the expedition, there are landings and outings in Zodiac boats, accompanied by specialist guides. There are also optional activities such as kayaking, hiking, and snowshoeing.
How long is an Antarctica cruise?
The length depends on the itinerary. Antarctica21’s Classic Antarctica Air-Cruise is 8 days and 7 nights, starting and ending in Punta Arenas.
- Day 1: arrival in Punta Arenas. Passengers are welcomed by the expedition team and attend a briefing covering logistics, recommendations, and travel protocols. The day ends with a welcome dinner.
- Day 2: flight and embarkation. A charter flight of about two hours connects Punta Arenas with King George Island. From there, a transfer takes passengers to the shore, and then a Zodiac boat takes them to the ship.
- Days 3 to 6: Antarctic exploration. Sailing begins through the South Shetland Islands and along the west coast of the Antarctic Peninsula. The program combines cruising among icebergs and fjords, landings and Zodiac excursions, plus onboard talks by specialists.
- Day 7: return to Punta Arenas. The expedition returns to King George Island to take the charter flight back. On arrival in Punta Arenas, one night of accommodation is included.
- Day 8: end of the trip. After breakfast, there is a transfer to the airport.
What can you see on Antarctica cruises?
The voyage takes you past glaciers, icebergs, fjords, snow-capped mountains, and polar waters. When conditions allow, landings offer the chance to walk in different areas of the Antarctic Peninsula and the South Shetland Islands.
You can also spot chinstrap and gentoo penguins, seals, elephant seals, Antarctic fur seals, whales, and seabirds in their natural habitat. Zodiac excursions let you get closer to some of these landscapes and observe wildlife from the water, always following the specialists’ instructions. On board, expert talks round out the experience with information about Antarctica’s ecosystem, history, and geographic features.
When is the best time to travel to Antarctica?
The tourist season is concentrated in the austral summer, between November and March, when conditions allow for sailing and landing activities. The Classic Antarctica Air-Cruise program operates from late November to early March.
- November and December: start of the season and plenty of ice.
- December and January: very long days and lots of wildlife activity.
- February and March: great opportunities for whale watching.
How much do Antarctica cruises from Chile cost?
The price depends on the date, the ship, the length, and the accommodation category. The 8-day Classic Antarctica Air-Cruise starts from USD 15,995 per person.
Available ships include the Magellan Explorer and Magellan Discoverer, two boutique vessels designed for Antarctic expeditions. On board, passengers have access to a panoramic lounge, dining room, bar, library, gym, sauna, and observation areas to take in the scenery and wildlife during the voyage.
What should you consider before you go?
Antarctica is one of the most remote and protected natural environments on the planet. That’s why an expedition requires preparation and a special commitment to its conservation.
- Book in advance, especially for peak dates.
- Bring waterproof clothing suitable for low temperatures.
- Take out travel insurance suitable for a remote area.
- Follow the expedition team’s instructions during landings.
- Keep a safe distance from wildlife, and don’t feed or disturb it.
What to do in Punta Arenas before or after traveling to Antarctica?
If your trip starts and ends in Punta Arenas, make the most of the available hours or nights to explore this city at the southern tip of Chile. You can stroll around Plaza de Armas Muñoz Gamero, visit the Magallanes Regional Museum, and head up to Cerro La Cruz, where you’ll get views over the city and the Strait of Magellan.
If you have more time, you can add an excursion to Magdalena Island, famous for its penguin colony, or explore other landscapes in the Magallanes Region.
Also keep in mind that itineraries can be affected by weather conditions. That’s why building in some extra time in Punta Arenas before an onward flight can be a smart choice when planning your trip.
