Antarctic Explorer featuring the Chilean Fjords | Sylvia Earle Expedition Ship

Antarctic Explorer featuring the Chilean Fjords

Early adventurers to Antarctica told stories of an ice-covered world teeming with life. Explore the unmatched splendor of Antarctica, a place where huge glaciers flow into the sea, penguins are dwarfed by towering mountains, and whales like the humpbacks and minkes thrive off the abundance of krill. The Chilean Fjords are also included in this expedition, which features waterways bordered with majestic mountains.

Day by day

Day 1: Punta Arenas

You will be met by our representative upon arrival and taken to your hotel. Please arrive by 4pm to be able to attend the evening briefing.

Please visit the reception desk between 10:00am and 6:00pm to obtain your cabin luggage tags. They will answer any questions, provide information on embarkation, offer suggestions for dining, last-minute shopping, etc.

Punta Arenas is located along the Straits of Magellan and occupies a prominent place in a historical trade route. The city is a fascinating blend of influences from English shepherds to Portuguese sailors and is a testimony to Chile's rich history. Punta Arenas is home to a wide range of restaurants and bars where you can enjoy local and international food.

Join your fellow Antarctica expeditioners at 7:00pm for an evening voyage briefing. We will confirm your transfer time for the next day, give you details on your flight to King George Island and discuss important IAATO rules for Antarctica tourists.

Accommodation: Hotel Cabo de Hornos (or a similar option).

Day 2: King George Island

We will be taken to Punta Arenas Airport in the morning for the charter flight. The journey to King George Island is approximately an hour and 45 minutes long, depending on weather conditions. Our expedition team is waiting to greet you at King George Island and to prepare you for your Zodiac ride to the ship. Before attending the safety briefings, you'll be able to settle into your cabin.

King George Island, located in the South Shetland Islands at the north end of Antarctic Peninsula is one of the world's most remote places. For safe landing and takeoff, a clear sky is required. We have contingency plans in case today's flight does not go as planned. We are committed to ensuring your safety, and apologize for any delay caused by this unforeseeable situation. Please refer to our terms and conditions for a fuller explanation.

Day 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9 & 10: Antarctic Peninsula

Day 11 & 12: Drake Passage

Day 13: Chilean Fjords

Day 14: Punta Arenas

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Highlights

Observe distinct wildlife, including endemic mammals and birds.

Capture images of colossal glaciers and uniquely shaped icebergs in serene coves.

Keep an eye out for diving whales, porpoising penguins, and ice seals like Weddell and crabeater seals on ice floes.

Explore the Chilean Fjords, home to a variety of seabirds and marine creatures, including dolphins, sea lions, and whales preparing to migrate to warmer climates.

Activities

Sea Kayaking

Under full instruction from your sea kayaking guide, experience true tranquillity as you paddle through clinking ice floes and realise the enormity of the surrounding scenery. Look out for breaching whales, lounging seals and penguins zipping alongside your kayak. Some experience is required.

Ice Camping

Camp out on the ice and experience the silence which blankets the continent by night. This is your chance to completely connect with this ethereal ice world – wrap up warm and embrace the Antarctic elements.

Snowshoeing

Get a spring in your step when you slip on a pair of snowshoes in Antarctica. Enabling you to easily scale gentle slopes, this unique activity allows you to access hard to reach places and seek out the most impressive views.

Photography

Learn to capture wildlife and landscape shots in a small group photography program, including critiquing sessions and editing classes. Plus, Explorer Boat excursions with a dedicated photography expert on landings.

Explorer Boats

Achieve the best views and photographs from a forward facing Explorer Boats. They allow you to sit comfortably and securely while crackling through the ice-strewn waters. Look out for wildlife such as penguins, seals and whales as you cruise.

Yoga

It doesn’t get more serene than complimentary yoga classes to the tune of glacial scenery. Join the most unique exercise setting in the world after a day of exploration. Classes are regular but are dependent on weather conditions and swell.