King George Island to King George Island
Embark on an adventure to the least visited region of Earth with an elegant expedition ship.
Duration
7 Day
Number
Starts from
Punta Arenas
Price
from 16.422 €
1. Highlights of the Route
- You fly to your expedition ship off King George Island without crossing Drake Passage and from there explore the Antarctic Peninsula with its icebergs, glaciers, and penguins.
- Start and end of the journey with a flight to your expedition ship in Antarctica from Punta Arenas in Chile.
- Elegant ship for polar voyages, ideal for those who wish to enjoy the highest comfort in a suite with butler service.
Your Trip at a Glance
On your expedition to Antarctica, you discover the last great natural paradise on Earth. From Puerto Williams, the tranquil Chilean counterpart to Ushuaia on the Beagle Channel, your route leads through the famous Drake Passage. Here, the oceans meet and create a rich ecosystem where you can observe albatrosses, whales, and dolphins.
In the majestic Antarctic Sound, the “Iceberg Alley”, the first penguin colonies greet you amidst a spectacular landscape of shimmering icebergs. The Antarctic Peninsula itself enchants with turquoise glaciers, deeply cut bays, and an amazing diversity of wildlife.
On the offshore South Shetland Islands, you experience various penguin species – Gentoo, Chinstrap, and Adelie penguins – in their natural habitat, while occasionally mighty elephant seals rest on the beach. The crowning finale is the return journey through the Drake Passage to your starting point, Puerto Williams.
Arrival Package:
Upon request, we would be happy to plan an individual pre-program for you or your arrival and departure, including international flights and transfers.
Post Itinerary Package:
Upon request, we would be happy to plan an individual follow-up program for you in a nearby destination.
2. The Itinerary
1. Day: King George Island
King George Island is the largest of the South Shetland Islands and is often referred to as the “Gateway to Antarctica”. It is located only 120 kilometers from the Antarctic Peninsula. The airport on this island represents the most important connection between the “normal world” and “Antarctic life”.
Despite the fact that 90% of the island is covered by snow and ice, more than 10 different nations maintain scientific research stations here – some year-round, others only during the summer months. A special feature: Operating a research station on King George Island enables a country to become a member of the Antarctic Treaty.
2. Day: Antarctic Sound
Today you enter one of the most spectacular regions of Antarctica: the Antarctic Sound. This ice-filled body of water marks the gateway to the Antarctic Peninsula and is known for its dramatic landscape, huge tabular icebergs, and the fascinating interplay of light and shadow on snow and water.
As your expedition ship carefully navigates through the icy labyrinth, you are treated to a first, impressive glimpse of the majestic wilderness of the seventh continent. With a bit of luck, you may encounter Adelie and chinstrap penguins, leopard seals, or even whales.
3. Day to 5. Day: Antarctic Peninsula
In the coming days, you will experience the majestic Antarctic Peninsula – a fascinating region that extends like a finger towards South America. Only about 1,000 kilometers from Tierra del Fuego, it forms the gateway to Antarctica and offers an unforgettable introduction to this untamed world. Huge glaciers, shimmering icebergs, and snow-covered peaks dominate the landscape. Here, Zodiac excursions, wildlife observations, and perhaps even your first steps on land await you. An intense nature experience that redefines your notion of wilderness – full of silence, clarity, and the unbridled power of the South.
6. Day: South Shetland Islands
Today you explore the South Shetland Islands – a remote archipelago off the Antarctic Peninsula known for its spectacular landscapes and rich wildlife. King George Island, in particular, the largest island in the region, offers fascinating insights into life at the edge of the world. Numerous international research stations operate here year-round.
During landings, you may, with some luck, observe penguin colonies, seals, and perhaps even walruses. A special highlight is the cruise into the flooded volcanic caldera of Deception Island – a natural phenomenon that impresses. A day full of contrasts and unforgettable encounters.
7. Day: King George Island
King George Island is the largest of the South Shetland Islands and is considered the gateway to Antarctica. Located just 120 kilometers from the Antarctic Peninsula, it houses the region’s only airport and connects “real life” with “Antarctic life”.
The island is home to more than 10 scientific research stations from various nations, which is noticeable despite 90% snow and ice cover. A permanent Russian Orthodox church with a priest is also present.
The scientists are outnumbered by the diverse wildlife, which includes Adelie, chinstrap, and gentoo penguins, as well as Weddell and leopard seals. The island also attracts numerous birds, including skuas and southern giant petrels. King George Island was named after King George III by a British explorer in 1819 and is part of the British Antarctic Territory, although Chile (1940) and Argentina (1943) have made claims.
- Departure From: Punta Arenas
- End Point: Punta Arenas
3. Services Included
Included
- Antarctica cruise in the booked cabin category.
- One night hotel accommodation in Santiago prior to the cruise.
- Economy charter/group flight from Santiago to Puerto Williams including checked baggage.
- Private charter flight in Business Class from King George Island to Punta Arenas including checked baggage and hand luggage.
- Hotel accommodation in Punta Arenas after the cruise.
- Economy charter/group flight from Punta Arenas to Santiago including checked baggage.
- All expedition activities and shore excursions on expedition cruises, such as Zodiac rides, hiking, snorkeling, and kayaking.
- Scientific lectures and entertainment on board.
- Experienced expedition leaders and lecturers.
- All meals on board during the voyage.
- Beverages in the suite and throughout the ship, including champagne, selected wines and spirits.
- Use of the spa and fitness center.
- 24-hour dining service.
- 24-hour room service.
- 24-hour butler service in all suites.
- Expedition parka as a gift.
- Expedition backpack as a gift.
- Water bottle as a gift.
- Gratuities on board.
- Unlimited, complimentary Wi-Fi.
Excluded
- International flights: We can book a suitable flight for you at an additional cost.
- Airport transfers.
- Personal travel insurance.
- Visa or passport fees.
- Personal expenses, for example in the on-board shop.
4. Travel Dates and Prices
Please contact us directly for the current daily prices of the trips and the prices for single occupancy or special cabins. Our polar experts will answer all your questions about the itinerary, the ship, and the cabins.
Appointments on request. Please contact us directly using the contact form.
Prices are per person, based on double occupancy per cabin or suite and subject to availability.
For solo travelers, cabins or suites may be available without a single supplement, subject to availability. Please contact us for details for solo travelers.
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