This journey is perfect for travellers who want to start their Antarctic adventure right on the ice. Your expedition begins with a time-saving charter flight from Punta Arenas to King George Island, allowing you to skip the southbound Drake Passage entirely and step straight into the heart of Antarctica. From there, your voyage unfolds by ship as you explore the South Shetland Islands and the iconic landscapes of the Antarctic Peninsula.
Each day brings a mix of Zodiac cruises, shore landings and intimate moments with Antarctica’s wildlife. You’ll wander among penguin colonies, watch seals hauled out on sea ice, and glide past sculpted icebergs glowing blue in the southern light. Your expedition team adapts the itinerary based on weather and wildlife activity, ensuring you get the richest possible experience, from glacier-lined bays to dramatic channels alive with birds and whales.
Onboard, your ship becomes a comfortable, welcoming base with hearty meals, expert presentations, panoramic lounges and the easy camaraderie that forms on polar voyages. After days immersed in this extraordinary world, you’ll sail north across the Drake Passage — giving you a gentle, reflective ending to your journey as seabirds ride the winds overhead.
Not sure if this is your ideal polar match? Head over to our Destination Antarctic overview for guidance on when to go, what kind of expedition suits your spirit, what wildlife you’ll likely encounter, and how to choose the perfect voyage for your travel style.
