Antarctica Fly-Cruise
Highlights
- Take the ‘Antarctic Express’ route, reaching Antarctica quickly and comfortably by flying instead of sailing
- Fly the Drake Passage, lessening the chances you’ll experience rough seas or storm delays
- Maximize your time in Antarctica proper by eliminating or reducing sailing days from South America
- Witness bird’s-eye views of some of the world’s most spectacular terrain and seascapes
- Experience the White Continent from two different perspectives, by both sea and air
By far most visits to Antarctica are by ship alone, but that’s not the only way to see the White Continent—flying part of the way is also a possibility. Antarctica Fly-Cruise itineraries allow you to combine air travel by charter flight with an expedition cruise around the Antarctic Peninsula, swapping two days’ sailing across the Drake Passage for a short two-hour flight from Punta Arenas in Chile to King George Island, the largest of the South Shetland Islands, just 120 kilometers (75 miles) shy of the continent itself.
There are two ways to fly and cruise Antarctica. Fly-fly trips include both inbound and outbound flights: a good option for those with limited time, as nearly all of your trip will take place in Antarctica proper, or for those who wish to avoid the Drake Passage crossing altogether. Fly-sail (or conversely sail-fly) itineraries on the other hand have you fly one leg, and cruise the other. They have the advantage of shaving off some time yet still allowing you to experience the Drake Passage, and are more cost effective.
About Antarctica Fly-Cruise
By far most visits to Antarctica are by ship alone, but that’s not the only way to see the White Continent—flying part of the way is also a possibility. Antarctica Fly-Cruise itineraries allow you to combine air travel by charter flight with an expedition cruise around the Antarctic Peninsula, swapping two days’ sailing across the Drake Passage for a short two-hour flight from Punta Arenas in Chile to King George Island, the largest of the South Shetland Islands, just 120 kilometers (75 miles) shy of the continent itself.
There are two ways to fly and cruise Antarctica. Fly-fly trips include both inbound and outbound flights: a good option for those with limited time, as nearly all of your trip will take place in Antarctica proper, or for those who wish to avoid the Drake Passage crossing altogether. Fly-sail (or conversely sail-fly) itineraries on the other hand have you fly one leg, and cruise the other. They have the advantage of shaving off some time yet still allowing you to experience the Drake Passage, and are more cost effective.
Classic Antarctica Air-Cruise
Polar Circle Air-Cruise
South Georgia & Antarctic Odyssey: Sail-Fly
Antarctic Express: Crossing The Circle
Antarctic Express: Fly The Drake
Antarctica Air Cruise Map
FAQ About Antarctica Fly and Cruise Options
What are Antarctica Fly-Cruises?
Antarctica Fly-Cruises combine a flight to or from the Antarctic Peninsula with a shorter cruise, allowing travelers to bypass the often turbulent Drake Passage. These expeditions offer a time-efficient and comfortable way to reach the stunning landscapes and wildlife of Antarctica.
Please note that whilst so...
How does an Antarctica Fly-Cruise work?
During an Antarctica Fly-Cruise, travelers fly from Punta Arenas, Chile, to King George Island in Antarctica, saving several days of sailing across the Drake Passage. From there, they embark on a cruise to explore the Antarctic Peninsula, enjoying shore excursions and wildlife encounters.
What are the advantages of an Antarctica Fly-Cruise?
The main advantages of an Antarctica Fly-Cruise are time savings and reduced potential for seasickness. By flying over the Drake Passage, travelers have more time to explore the Antarctic Peninsula and can avoid the potentially rough seas of the passage.
Are there any disadvantages to Antarctica Fly-Cruises?
While Antarctica Fly-Cruises offer convenience, the flight portion is still subject to weather conditions. Delays or cancellations may occur due to poor weather, which could impact the overall itinerary. However, tour operators typically have contingency plans in place. They also tend to be more expensive.
When is the best time to go on an Antarctica Fly-Cruise?
The best time for Antarctica Fly-Cruises is during the Antarctic summer months from November to March. This period offers milder weather, longer daylight hours, and abundant wildlife, providing optimal conditions for exploring the Antarctic Peninsula.
Do you have any Antarctica Fly Cruise Deals?
Normally Fly-Cruise itineraries prove very popular and can sell out well in advance. However occasionally Antarctica Fly-Cruise deals do become available, which gives you the best of both worlds, simultaneously saving time sailing the Drake Passage and...
Antarctica Fly-Cruises combine a flight to or from the Antarctic Peninsula with a shorter cruise, allowing travelers to bypass the often turbulent Drake Passage. These expeditions offer a time-efficient and comfortable way to reach the stunning landscapes and wildlife of Antarctica.
Please note that whilst some tours include domestic flights within Chile from Santiago (usually to Punta Arenas) or Argentina from Buenos Aires (usually to Ushuaia) within their price, this has no bearing on whether your tour is a Fly-Cruise or not—this nomenclature only refers to how you get to Antarctica upon leaving South America.
During an Antarctica Fly-Cruise, travelers fly from Punta Arenas, Chile, to King George Island in Antarctica, saving several days of sailing across the Drake Passage. From there, they embark on a cruise to explore the Antarctic Peninsula, enjoying shore excursions and wildlife encounters.
The main advantages of an Antarctica Fly-Cruise are time savings and reduced potential for seasickness. By flying over the Drake Passage, travelers have more time to explore the Antarctic Peninsula and can avoid the potentially rough seas of the passage.
While Antarctica Fly-Cruises offer convenience, the flight portion is still subject to weather conditions. Delays or cancellations may occur due to poor weather, which could impact the overall itinerary. However, tour operators typically have contingency plans in place. They also tend to be more expensive.
The best time for Antarctica Fly-Cruises is during the Antarctic summer months from November to March. This period offers milder weather, longer daylight hours, and abundant wildlife, providing optimal conditions for exploring the Antarctic Peninsula.
Normally Fly-Cruise itineraries prove very popular and can sell out well in advance. However occasionally Antarctica Fly-Cruise deals do become available, which gives you the best of both worlds, simultaneously saving time sailing the Drake Passage and money.
Best Fly Cruise Antarctica Ships
Reach the Antarctic realm faster, bypass the Drake Passage, and experience the ultimate blend of convenience and luxury on our top-rated fly cruise Antarctica ships.
Recommended Reading
Antarctica Cruise Routes: Which Itinerary Is Best For You?
Can You Go To Antarctica? Yes! Here’s How To Visit
Modes Of Travel & Transportation In Antarctica
Antarctica Cruise Ships: Which Expedition Vessel Is Best?
