{"id":102938,"date":"2026-09-29T07:54:31","date_gmt":"2026-09-29T10:54:31","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/chile.travel\/?p=102938"},"modified":"2026-09-29T07:54:39","modified_gmt":"2026-09-29T10:54:39","slug":"antarctica-cruises-from-chile-the-gateway-to-the-white-continent","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/chile.travel\/en\/blog\/antarctica-cruises-from-chile-the-gateway-to-the-white-continent\/","title":{"rendered":"Antarctica cruises from Chile: the gateway to the White Continent"},"content":{"rendered":"\n

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. <\/p>\n\n

Some places feel like another world. Antarctica is one of them<\/a>: huge icebergs floating in crystal-clear waters, glaciers, and remarkable marine wildlife<\/strong> alongside the ships as they pass. <\/p>\n\n

From Punta Arenas<\/strong>, you can set off on this adventure aboard Antarctica cruises from Chile<\/strong> and, with the fly & cruise<\/em> option, fly straight to King George Island to explore one of the most pristine and remote territories on the planet<\/strong>, where glaciers, ocean, and wildlife coexist in an almost untouched environment. <\/p>\n\n

Cover photo: Antarctica21<\/a><\/p>\n\n

What is it like to travel on an Antarctica cruise from Chile? <\/h2>\n\n
\"
Photo: Antarctica21<\/a><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n

From Punta Arenas, there are two main ways to reach Antarctica: expedition cruises that make the sea crossing through the Drake Passage<\/strong> and fly & cruise<\/em> programs, which combine flights and sailing.<\/p>\n\n

This latter option is offered by the Chilean company Antarctica21<\/strong>. Its Classic Antarctica Air-Cruise program <\/a> begins with a charter flight of around two hours to King George Island<\/strong>, in the South Shetland Islands. From there, passengers board an expedition ship to continue on to the Antarctic Peninsula. <\/p>\n\n

The main advantage is that it lets you avoid the sea crossing of the Drake Passage<\/strong>, famous for its challenging sailing conditions. This leg can take around 48 hours each way<\/strong>, leaving more time to explore Antarctica\u2019s landscapes and wildlife. <\/p>\n\n

During the expedition, there are landings and outings in Zodiac boats<\/strong>, accompanied by specialist guides. There are also optional activities such as kayaking, hiking, and snowshoeing<\/strong>. <\/p>\n\n

How long is an Antarctica cruise?<\/h2>\n\n
\"Passengers
Photo: Antarctica21<\/a><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n

The length depends on the itinerary. Antarctica21\u2019s Classic Antarctica Air-Cruise<\/strong> is 8 days and 7 nights<\/strong>, starting and ending in Punta Arenas. <\/p>\n\n