• Classic Antarctica Air-Cruise

    Antarctica21 Air-Cruise Expedition - 8 days / 7 nights onboard

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  • Journey past towering icebergs and through ice-filled fjords in Antarctica's most scenic waterways.
  • Witness Antarctica's extraordinary wildlife, from curious penguins to breaching whales and lounging seals.
  • When weather allows it, step ashore on the Antarctic Peninsula and South Shetland Islands, walking where few have ventured.
  • Experience the thrill of Zodiac excursions, navigating between glaciers and through pristine polar waters.
  • Learn from expert polar guides during daily presentations and guided landings at remarkable Antarctic sites.
  • Sail aboard our boutique expedition ship, enjoying premium comfort while exploring Earth's last frontier.

You will need to fly into Punta Arenas (PUQ) 


Most flights will connect via Buenos Aires, Argentina, or via Santiago, Chile. 


Ask us for competitive fares.

  • Comprehensive pre- and post-voyage information material.
  • Airport and Hotel Transfers
  • One Hotel Night in Punta Arenas
  • Welcome Dinner at Explorers House
  • Ship Cruise
  • Daily Meals and Beverages - Daily buffet breakfast and lunch, and à la carte dinner, as well as wine, beer, juice, soft drinks, coffee, tea, chocolate, cappuccino, water, and snacks on board the ship.
  • Gear and Contingency Plan - Loan of waterproof boots for landings in Antarctica, contingency plan, and IAATO passenger fee.
  • Guided Excursions and Activities - All guided shore excursions, as well as lectures and entertainment on board.

LENGTH: 7 nights


76 Guests | 67 Staff & Crew


DATES:

Nov 26, 2025 to Dec 03, 2025

Dec 01, 2025 to Dec 08, 2025

Dec 06, 2025 to Dec 13, 2025

Dec 07, 2025 to Dec 14, 2025


INTERNATIONAL GATEWAY:  Punta Arenas


Passengers:

76 maximum on air-cruises


Expedition Staff & Crew:

67


Lifeboats:

2, fully enclosed, capacity of

124 (in addition to 8 life rafts,

capacity of 120)


Length:

94 m (308.4 ft)


Breadth:

17.2 m (56.4 ft)


Draft:

4.5 m (14.8 ft)


Propulsion:

Hybrid-Electric Diesel engines,

2 x 1,800 kW


Ice Class:

PC6


Cruising Speed:

14 knots in open water

Optional Sea Kayaking

This Sea Kayaking program is an exclusive experience under the guidance and leadership of an experienced Kayak Master, who takes our guests on a sea journey through icy waters while observing massive glaciers and aquatic wildlife.

Optional Hiking & Snowshoeing

A Hiking and Snowshoeing Guide leads a small group of adventurers who wish to explore further while on land as they gain elevation and explore the landscape.

Unique Wildlife

Spot penguins, seals, and whales in their natural Antarctic habitat. Encounter vast king penguin colonies in South Georgia

Spectacular Scenery

Explore the dramatic landscapes of the South Shetland Islands and Antarctic Peninsula. Cruise through secluded fjords, surrounded by pristine natural beauty.

Overview

The Classic Antarctica air-cruise is our most popular Antarctica expedition itinerary. Once arriving by flight to Antarctica, you will sail between the South Shetland Islands and the western coast of the Antarctic Peninsula. Enjoy seeing ice-filled fjords and spectacular icebergs, while spotting penguins, seals, and whales that call the White Continent home. 


Day by Day Itinerary


Day 1 |  Start of the Air-Cruise

Arrive in Punta Arenas, Chile, where you are welcomed by Antarctica21 staff and transferred to your hotel. Before 2 PM, you are expected at Explorers House for your check-in, for a mandatory briefing that provides important information about your air-cruise and essential guidelines for Antarctic visitors. Later, gather for a welcome dinner and meet your fellow adventurers while enjoying a typical regional menu.


Day 2 | Scheduled flight to Antarctica

A two-hour exclusive chartered flight takes you from Punta Arenas to King George Island, in the South Shetland Islands. As you exit the aircraft, the clear Antarctic air fills your lungs for the first time. You then board a transfer vehicle and pass Chile’s Frei Station and Russia’s Bellingshausen Station to reach the shore and board a Zodiac that will take you to your boutique expedition vessel.


Day 3-6 | Exploring Antarctica

Cruise between the South Shetland Islands and the western coast of the Antarctic Peninsula, sailing along ice-filled fjords and among spectacular icebergs, while enjoying the company of seabirds, penguins, seals, and whales. Each day disembark by Zodiac and explore the landscape together with expert polar guides. On board the ship, attend an engaging program of educational presentations, and enjoy spectacular views from the lounge while sharing your daily adventures with fellow guests.


No journey is the same and flexibility is the key to success in Antarctica. The Expedition Team plans the voyage route to take advantage of the ever-changing opportunities provided by nature, crafting a unique and extraordinary experience every time. While the exact itinerary changes with each expedition, you will explore several sites that offer the best possible overview of the varied Antarctic environment. Your voyage may include visits to sites in the South Shetland Islands, the Antarctic Sound, the Gerlache Strait, and the Penola Strait.


Day 7 |  Scheduled Return Flight from Antarctica

Return to King George Island and bid farewell to Antarctica before boarding the chartered flight back to Punta Arenas. Upon arrival, transfer to your hotel for the night. (Note: Meals in Punta Arenas are at your leisure and not included in the program).


Day 8 |  End of the Air-Cruise

After breakfast, transfer to Punta Arenas airport for your return journey home.

Magellan Discoverer Deck Plan

This custom-built expedition vessel, designed for Antarctic air-cruises, features hybrid diesel-electric propulsion, advanced technologies, and a sophisticated design. It meets the latest Polar Code standards and will begin service in 2026. The vessel offers five accommodation categories with private balconies, a panoramic lounge, a presentation room with state-of-the-art audiovisual equipment, and various amenities such as a spacious dining room, bar, library, meeting room, gym, sauna with open views, and a medical clinic. The top deck includes a 360° walking track for wildlife viewing and scenic views.

Why we love it

Wildlife Encounters

Activities

Stunning Scenery

Bucket List Trip