Antarctica Direct: Fly the Drake Passage (9D)
Highlights
- Fly directly to the South Shetlands' King George Island from Puerto Natales (not Punta Arenas) and encounter its diverse wildlife, including penguins, Weddell seals, and elephant seals.
- Enjoy flexible daily excursions, from Zodiac cruises amid playful penguins to kayaking near towering icebergs and hiking through penguin highways.
- Immerse yourself in Antarctica's mesmerizing ice, from colossal icebergs and glaciers to ice-crunching ship experiences that provide unforgettable photographic opportunities.
Embark on a remarkable Antarctic expedition, beginning in Puerto Natales, Chile, and crossing the Drake Passage to the breathtaking ice-clad world of Antarctica. Offering an unforgettable mix of nature and exploration, you’ll venture by charter flight to King George Island, a haven for wildlife like penguins, seals, and seabirds, before boarding your ship for a deep dive into the remote, icy realms of the Antarctic Peninsula.
The austral summer brings extended daylight hours, allowing you to fully explore Antarctica’s most iconic features, including vast icebergs, ice-choked waters, and the towering mountain landscapes that define the continent. The unpredictability of the region adds a sense of excitement, as every day presents new opportunities—whether it’s watching humpback whales off the ship’s bow or stepping ashore for a chance to walk alongside curious penguins, all accompanied by an expert expedition team to guide you every step of the way. Zodiac excursions and kayaking allow for intimate, close-up encounters with this surreal environment, while hiking among the region’s incredible wildlife offers a deep sense of connection to the polar wilderness.
This fly-cruise itinerary is perfect for those who crave adventure and close wildlife encounters but are a little short on time. Whether you’re hoping to photograph the beauty of glaciers or encounter the magic of penguins in their natural habitat, it’s a voyage that promises to leave you with a treasure trove of awe-inspiring memories and a renewed appreciation for the wild, remote corners of our planet.
Standard Activities
About the Antarctica Direct: Fly the Drake Passage (9D)
Embark on a remarkable Antarctic expedition, beginning in Puerto Natales, Chile, and crossing the Drake Passage to the breathtaking ice-clad world of Antarctica. Offering an unforgettable mix of nature and exploration, you’ll venture by charter flight to King George Island, a haven for wildlife like penguins, seals, and seabirds, before boarding your ship for a deep dive into the remote, icy realms of the Antarctic Peninsula.
The austral summer brings extended daylight hours, allowing you to fully explore Antarctica’s most iconic features, including vast icebergs, ice-choked waters, and the towering mountain landscapes that define the continent. The unpredictability of the region adds a sense of excitement, as every day presents new opportunities—whether it’s watching humpback whales off the ship’s bow or stepping ashore for a chance to walk alongside curious penguins, all accompanied by an expert expedition team to guide you every step of the way. Zodiac excursions and kayaking allow for intimate, close-up encounters with this surreal environment, while hiking among the region’s incredible wildlife offers a deep sense of connection to the polar wilderness.
This fly-cruise itinerary is perfect for those who crave adventure and close wildlife encounters but are a little short on time. Whether you’re hoping to photograph the beauty of glaciers or encounter the magic of penguins in their natural habitat, it’s a voyage that promises to leave you with a treasure trove of awe-inspiring memories and a renewed appreciation for the wild, remote corners of our planet.
Itinerary
Puerto Natales, Chile
Arrive in Puerto Natales. Originally a small fishing port, the town is nestled on the Last Hope Sound and boasts a stunning view of the sea surrounded by the Cerro Benitez Mountains—the gateway to Torres del Paine. Transfer from the airport to your hotel, where you’ll enjoy dinner and attend a briefing on the following day’s activities.
Arrival Time: Arrive to the hotel in Puerto Natales by 3:00 p.m. local time.
Arrival City: Puerto Natales, Chile
Meals Included: Dinner
Puerto Natales/ King George Island/ Antarctica/ Embark ship
Exploring Antarctica
King George Island/ Disembark ship/ Puerto Natales
Puerto Natales
What's Included
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All accommodations aboard ship or in hotels per itinerary.
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All meals as indicated in the itinerary, both aboard and onshore.
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Beer, wine, cocktails, liquors and spirits aboard the ship (except certain premium brands which are available for purchase).
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Hors d’oeuvres, 24-hour access to snacks, premium coffees and teas, non-alcoholic beverages, and filtered water.
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Excursions and airport transfers, as indicated in the itinerary, as indicated in the itinerary.
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Crew gratuities.
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Exploration tools curated to destination, such as Zodiacs, kayaks, snowshoes and cross-country skis.
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Guidance and company of our leading expedition staff.
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Assistance by the National Geographic photographer and National Geographic Expeditions certified photo instructor.
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Basic Wi-Fi aboard ship.
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Complimentary reusable water bottle.
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Access to the OM System Photo Gear Locker.
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Presentations by expedition staff and expert guest speakers.
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Complimentary parka.
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Complimentary reusable water bottle.
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Onboard physician consultations.
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Morning stretch classes and 24-hour access to exercise equipment.
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24-hour access to lounges, observation decks, library, and other shared spaces;
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Park and site entrance fees, special access permits, and port taxes.
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Unused services or items included in our programs are non-refundable.
What's Excluded
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Airfare (except flights* when indicated as included).
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Pre- and post-expedition extensions; additional hotel nights (except when indicated as included).
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Private transfers; laundry, spa treatments, enhanced and premium Wi-Fi plans aboard expedition fleet.
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Phone services (except when indicated as included)
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Travel protection plans; and passport, visa, and immigration fees.
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Recommended flight costs include flight(s) that take place during the date range of your trip to transport travelers from one itinerary destination to another. This cost also includes ground transportation, luggage transfer, and airport assistance.
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If you prefer to arrange your own flights privately, have alternate means of transport, or wish to modify at a later time, please contact an Expedition Specialist
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Additional costs associated with medical services outside onboard physician consultation.
Classic Antarctica Air-Cruise
Antarctic Explorer: Discovering The 7th Continent
South Shetland Islands & Antarctic Peninsula
Antarctica - Basecamp
Antarctic Circle Expedition (18D)
Antarctic Express: Fly The Drake
Spirit of Antarctica
Highlights of Antarctica
South Georgia, Falklands & Antarctic Odyssey (21D)
Across the Antarctic Circle (13D)