Home > Expeditions > Antarctic Peninsula: Fly the Drake
Antarctic Peninsula: Fly the Drake
- 12 Days
- Departure/Arrival:
- Punta Arenas, Chile - Punta Arenas, Chile
- Voyage code:
- APF010G
- Voyage type:
- Polar Expedition
- Ship:
- Greg Mortimer
- Price:
-
USD $24,495.00
from USD $20,820.75/pp Save 15%*
Summary
Welcome to Vantage Explorations’ Antarctic Peninsula: Fly the Drake expedition.
Separating the southern tip of the South American continent from the Antarctic Peninsula region is the Drake Passage, where the mighty Pacific and Atlantic oceans converge. This narrow and impossibly deep waterway creates unpredictable conditions for navigators, who put their skills to the test when the passage is at its most turbulent.
For expeditioners who prefer to focus their energy on adventures in Antarctica, flying over the Drake Passage in both directions is the ideal way to reach the white continent. In the safe hands of experienced pilots, your pulse will quicken as you glimpse the first icebergs in the Southern Ocean, where your vessel awaits, ready to take you on an exhilarating adventure.
Highlights
- Soar over the Drake Passage in both directions, soaking in the icy scenery below
- Enjoy lengthy hours of daylight when the sun barely dips below the horizon, giving you extended time for exploration
- Witness cute, fluffy juvenile penguins moulting and preparing for their first taste of independence.
- Gaze at sea-ice seals hauled out on ice floes away from the hungry jaws of predators
- Whales start to arrive in volume to feed on krill. Watch for the telltale fluke of a tail as it plunges to the depths of the ocean numbers.
Itinerary
Day 1 Arrive Punta Arenas
Arrive in Punta Arenas, where you will be met by a representative of Vantage Explorations and transferred to our hotel. We ask that you arrive no later than 2:00pm so that you may attend our important briefing this evening.
Please visit the Vantage Explorations hospitality desk in the lobby between 2:00pm – 6:00pm to collect your luggage cabin tags. Our team will confirm details regarding your embarkation day, answer any questions and provide you with information about where to dine or purchase last minute items.
Overlooking the Straits of Magellan, the city sits astride one of the world's most historic trade routes. Today, Punta Arenas reflects a great blend of cultural backgrounds, from English sheep ranchers to Portuguese sailors. It remains an utterly fascinating testament to Chile's rich history. Modern day Punta Arenas is home to many popular restaurants, and bars, offering a mix of local and international fare (meals at your own expense today).
At 7.00 pm this evening, meet your fellow expeditioners at a voyage briefing where we will reconfirm your transfer times for tomorrow, explain the procedures for your flight to King George Island and outline important IAATO regulations for visitors to Antarctica.
Day 2 Embarkation
This morning we will be transferred to Punta Arenas airport for our charter flight to King George Island, Antarctica (weather permitting). The flight will take approximately one hour and forty-five minutes. On arrival into King George Island our expedition team is on hand to greet you and to prepare you for your Zodiac transfer to the vessel. You will have time to settle into your cabin before our important safety briefings.
Note: King George Island is located at the northern part of the Antarctic Peninsula in the South Shetland Islands and is one of the most remote places on Earth. A clear sky with perfect visibility is required for safe take-off and landing. A contingency plan will be applied to your itinerary should your flights not proceed today. Your safety is our upmost priority. We apologise in advance for any delays caused due to this unpredictable situation. Please refer to our terms and conditions for a more detailed explanation.
Days 3-10 Antarctic Peninsula
It’s almost impossible to describe the feeling of arriving in Antarctica. Spotting your first iceberg and taking a deep breath of some of the most fresh, crisp air on earth is an experience that will stay with you forever.
Once we arrive, the western side of the Antarctic Peninsula and the South Shetland Islands are ours to explore, and we have a host of choices available to us. Because we are so far south, we will experience approximately 18-24 hours of daylight and the days can be as busy as you wish.
Your experienced expedition team, who have made countless journeys to this area, will use their expertise to design your voyage from day to day, choosing the best options based on the prevailing weather, ice conditions and wildlife opportunities.
We generally make landings or Zodiac excursions twice a day. You will want to rug up before joining Zodiac cruises along spectacular ice cliffs or among grounded icebergs, keeping watch for whales, seals and porpoising penguins. Zodiacs will also transport you from the ship to land, where you can visit penguin rookeries, discover historic huts and explore some of our favourite spots along the peninsula.
While ashore we aim to stretch our legs, wandering along pebbly beaches or perhaps up snow-covered ridgelines to vantage points with mountains towering overhead and ice-speckled oceans below. If you have chosen an optional activity, you will have the option to do that whenever conditions allow, and of course keen polar plungers will have the chance to fully immerse themselves in polar waters - conditions permitting!
In addition to Zodiac cruises and shore excursions, we may ship cruise some of the narrow, dramatic straits separating offshore islands from the mainland, or linger in scenic bays to watch whales travelling or feeding. Keep an ear out for the creak and deep rumble of glaciers as they carve their way from summit to sea. Take a quiet moment to experience the wonder of this incredible white continent.
Day 11 Fly King George Island to Punta Arenas
As we approach Frei Base on King George Island, it is time to farewell Antarctica and our amazing adventure before boarding our flight to Punta Arenas, Chile. There is time for reflection and discussion about what we have seen and experienced. We hope you become ambassadors for Antarctica telling your family, friends and colleagues about your journey to this magical place, advocating for its conservation and preservation so that they might one day visit the region to experience what you have been lucky to see and do here.
In Punta Arenas, you will be transferred to our group hotel for an overnight stay.
Note: King George Island is located at the northern tip of the Antarctic Peninsula in the South Shetland Islands and is one of the most remote places on Earth. A clear sky with perfect visibility is required for safe take-off and landing. We apologise in advance for any possible delays.
Day 12 Depart Punta Arenas
After breakfast, bid a fond farewell to your fellow travellers as we continue our onward journeys, hopefully with a newfound sense of the immense power of nature (breakfast included). A transfer to the airport is included in the voyage fare.
Note: Should your flight not proceed due to local conditions; you will remain on the ship until it is deemed achievable to return to Punta Arenas. Refer to our terms and conditions for further details.
Inclusions
- All airport transfers mentioned in the itinerary.
- Two night’s hotel accommodation including breakfast, in Punta Arenas on Day 1 and Day 11.
- Return charter flight between Punta Arenas and King George Island.
- Onboard accommodation during voyage, including daily cabin service.
- All meals, snacks, tea and coffee during voyage.
- Beer, house wine and soft drinks with dinner.
- Captain’s Farewell reception including four-course dinner, house cocktails, house beer and wine, non-alcoholic beverages.
- All shore excursions and Zodiac cruises.
- Educational lectures and guiding services provided by Expedition Team.
- Complimentary access to onboard expedition doctor and medical clinic (initial consultation).
- One 3-in-1 waterproof, polar expedition jacket.
- Complimentary use of Muck Boots during the voyage.
- Comprehensive pre-departure information.
- Port surcharges, permits and landing fees.
- Wi-Fi*.
* Please note we travel to remote regions and therefore the connection can be unreliable.
Exclusions
- International or domestic flights – unless specified in the itinerary.
- Transfers – unless specified in the itinerary.
- Airport arrival or departure taxes.
- Passport, visa, reciprocity and vaccination fees and charges.
- Travel insurance or emergency evacuation charges.
- Hotel accommodation and meals – unless specified in the itinerary.
- Optional excursions and optional activity surcharges.
- All items of a personal nature, including but not limited to alcoholic beverages and soft drinks (outside of dinner service), gratuities, laundry services, personal clothing, medical expenses or phone charges.
Note: A $15 USD per person per day gratuity for the crew is automatically added to your onboard account. It is at your discretion if you would like to remove the tip (or adjust the amount) when you settle your bill. It is not necessary to tip the expedition team members. This gratuity amount is included for suites as part of their ‘Suite Benefits’.
Add-on Activities
Sea Kayaking
From USD $1,330.00/pp
Sea Kayaking Venture into the heart of Antarctica, the Arctic, and beyond with one of the most thrilling activities available. …
Sea Kayaking
Sea Kayaking
Venture into the heart of Antarctica, the Arctic, and beyond with one of the most thrilling activities available.
Embark on sea kayaking expeditions in these awe-inspiring, biodiverse regions, where nature’s grandeur will deeply resonate with your soul. Glide through brash ice and icebergs, each with its unique character, while taking in the unfolding majestic landscapes.
In Antarctica, keep your camera ready for unforgettable moments with penguins, seals, whales, and the occasional leopard seal or orca. In the Arctic, prepare to paddle beneath nesting bird colonies, past colossal glaciers, and around immense icebergs.
Guided by seasoned experts, you and your small group of kindred explorers will navigate between ice floes, brash ice, and icebergs of all shapes and sizes. Kayaking offers one of the most intimate ways to access and explore the enchanting coastlines of the remote destinations we visit, ensuring you make the most of your time in the wild.
‘Getting out amongst it’ is our philosophy, and that is exactly what we do. Weather permitting, the sea kayaking activity is normally available anytime the other expeditioners go out. Rather than travelling large distances, our aim is to ensure you see as much as possible. We paddle between 5 to 15 kilometres (2 to 4 hours) per outing, often taking a snack and a flask of hot chocolate to enjoy on our excursion.
Each small group of kayakers (up to 10 per guide) will have their own intimate exploration of the small hidden bays and coasts that are inaccessible to Zodiacs. Of course, we also make time for your own shore excursions and wildlife encounters.
The elements play an important role in our sea kayaking program. It is important that you have an adventurous attitude and understand that the weather can impact our kayaking time.
For all of our trips, you must be active in the outdoors and have an adventurous spirit. The level of experience differs slightly depending on the region you are visiting.
For most temperate and polar you should be an intermediate paddler. In South Georgia however, conditions can be more varied and you require solid paddling experience in ocean swell and wind.
For our tropical trips some prior paddling experience is needed. We may encounter wind on these trips, however the water is fairly protected.
You do not need to be an expert or know how to roll. However, you must be able to swim and you should have experience in a wet exit and assisted re-entry. You should also be proficient at putting on a spray skirt by yourself and be comfortable paddling on seas with up to half a metre swell. It is also important that you gain some practice getting into a kayak from a pier, wharf, or deep shoreline where you can’t step into the kayak from standing position. You can easily practice all of this at home, plus paddling in a variety of weather conditions, before your trip.
What about beginners up to the challenge?
Our guides do not offer instructional classes for beginners. Therefore, the sea kayaking option is unsuitable for complete novices. However, there is often ample time to gain the required experience before you depart. We may be able to recommend a reputable sea kayak operator in your area for some tuition prior to the trip.
Your guide will assess your ability on the initial paddle, and if you have insufficient experience, he or she reserves the right to restrict your participation in rougher conditions.
You should be fit enough to paddle for up to three hours and climb between moving Zodiacs on the water. Regular exercise is recommended, because the fitter you are the more you will enjoy the experience. The more paddles you can do before the trip, the better. We recommend at least three outings prior to your voyage.
Polar regions
During summer the air temperature in the Antarctic Peninsula, Greenland and Spitsbergen are generally above freezing but can range from -4°C to +5°C / 24.8°F to 41°F. The water temperature in the polar regions is close to freezing and winds sweep off the glaciers, making paddling a chilling experience. In South Georgia, there are stronger winds and swells than in Antarctica. Scotland, Iceland, Norwegian coasts are warmer with water temperatures of around 12 °C/ 53.6°F.
Temperate regions
The northern waters are warmer than the polar regions but water temperatures of around 12 °C/ 53.6°F mean you may opt to wear your paddle jacket on a warm, sunny day or our dry suits on a cool day. Surf landings are not likely, but you must be capable of paddling in a small swell or wind chop, with winds up to 20 knots. With that being said, we will not paddle if wind conditions are too strong and there is no sheltered area for paddling.
Tropical regions
In Costa Rica and Panama, April is the end of the dry season. The shoulder season begins in May, bringing increased humidity. Afternoon rain showers are possible in May with temperatures ranging from 26-36 °C (80- 96 °F). Winds are generally light at this time of year. The water temperature ranges from 27 -29 °C. Surf landings are not likely, but be prepared to paddle in a small swell or wind chop, with winds up to 15 knots. Again, we will not paddle if wind conditions are too strong and there is no sheltered area for paddling.
The Sea Kayaking activity is available for an additional surcharge and includes guided excursions and kayaking equipment. Fares for this activity start from US$900.
Prices are indicative only and are variable. They are calculated based on the days of voyage, ability to carry out the activity and exchange rates
Top reasons to choose a Sea Kayaking holiday
See wildlife unobtrusively
Kayaking is one of the best ways to spot rare wildlife, from penguins to puffins.
Better access
Access intimate bays and coves that bigger crafts can't reach.
Knowledgeable guides
Our experienced sea kayak guides will help bring your chosen destination to life.
Become an expert
Hone your kayaking skills and gain a hobby for life!
Make friends
Become lifelong friends with your small group of like-minded adventurers.
Stay fit on your holiday
Being active every day on your holiday means you don't have to feel guilty about being spoilt by our expert chefs!
Enhance your experience
Add another layer to your once-in-a-lifetime holiday and make the most out of your time in some of the most remote places on earth.
It's fun!
Have the time of your life exploring some of the wildest places on earth from the water.
FAQs
Our guide to paddler ratio is 1:10 and we provide an accompanying safety Zodiac. There are 26 places available in Antarctica and tropical voyages, 20 in temperate regions, South Georgia and all Arctic trips except in Franz Josef Land where the maximum is 16 kayakers.
Kayakers must be 14 or over.
Sea kayaking is offered in place of regular shore excursions. We aim to paddle as often as possible. Depending on the voyage, we generally aim to paddle twice per day.
We will give you a drybag for extra clothing, binoculars and anything that needs to be kept dry. You should also carry a water bottle. We recommend bringing a waterproof camera or phone, or ensuring you have a good quality waterproof case.
If the weather changes during our outing we will head back to the ship and perhaps join a shore excursion. The ship’s captain, expedition leader and kayak guide always maintain close contact to ensure a safe paddling experience. We do not attempt to paddle too far away from the ship. The emphasis is on experiencing the destination rather than travelling long distances.
The kayaks are made with a hard plastic and are easily paddled in swell and conducting shore landings, and through small patches of brash ice. We manoeuvre around the larger ice chunks and floes.
Polar regions
Kayaking in the poles offers a unique wildlife viewing experience. In Antarctica, we have many opportunities to encounter penguins, seals and whales, and occasionally we may even spot leopard seals or orcas. In the Arctic, we’ll paddle under nesting bird colonies, past massive glaciers and around large icebergs, however we maintain a safe distance from polar bears and walruses. Our guides carry rifles and flare guns in the Arctic to ensure your safety against polar bears.
Temperate regions
Kayakers in wild temperate regions will have a unique wildlife experience, with possible encounters with seals and basking sharks. You will have the opportunity to view some of the largest sea bird colonies in the northern hemisphere.
Tropical regions
The superb wildlife-viewing opportunities are endless in the astonishingly biodiverse nature reserves we visit. Kayaks offer a unique opportunity to view marine and land mammals, coral reefs, tropical fish, sea birds and an astonishing range of rainforest birds. We will bring our snorkelling gear with us during our paddles and take advantage of any opportunities to view marine life up close.
In the unlikely event of a capsize, your experienced guide will assist by righting the kayak, stabilising it then pumping it out. Paddlers will re-enter with the guide’s help, or with a support Zodiac. With drysuits and warm clothing underneath you will be comfortable in cold water for up to half an hour. Note that the kayaks have separate compartments with bulkheads, which means they will float after a capsize.
No. Each kayaking place is for one person only. Passengers are unable to share a kayaking place as we customise the kayaks and dry suits for each individual kayaker at the beginning of each voyage.
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Snorkelling
From USD $675.00/pp
Experience the unparalleled beauty and wildlife of Antarctica like never before. Dive into the pristine waters and witness the incredible …
Snorkelling
Experience the unparalleled beauty and wildlife of Antarctica like never before. Dive into the pristine waters and witness the incredible agility of penguins as they glide in and out of the ice. Be captivated by the stunning, sculpted icebergs beneath the surface, and encounter a diverse marine ecosystem, including crustaceans, isopods, starfish, and nudibranchs.
Vantage Explorations, known for pushing boundaries, introduced Antarctic snorkeling adventures in 2014. This extraordinary opportunity offers a fresh perspective on these remarkable destinations, allowing you to immerse yourself in a world of wildlife and landscapes found nowhere else on Earth. Our expert polar diving guides will lead you, equipped with top-of-the-line gear, including drysuits, gloves, hoods, fins, masks, and snorkels.
We provide comprehensive training and all the necessary equipment, enabling you to explore Antarctica from a truly unique angle. Weather permitting, you’ll have the chance to snorkel daily, uncovering the hidden treasures of sheltered bays, offshore islands, and secluded shipwrecks, creating unforgettable moments of wildlife discovery.
Polar Snorkeling
Through crystal clear waters, you’ll discover the amazing mobility and speed of penguins entering and exiting from the ice, marvel at beautiful sculpted icebergs below the water and witness marine life such as crustaceans, isopods, starfish and nudibranchs!
Temperate Snorkeling
Discover a mysterious kelp forest where timid creatures seek refuge, encounter curious sea otters or if you’re very lucky, hold your breath in the presence of a majestic whale.
Tropical Snorkeling
Snorkel among a kaleidoscope of coral reefs brimming with brightly-colored tropical fish or perhaps swim with curious sea lions.
Our Guides
Our team of experienced guides have over 20 years’ experience and provide snorkelers with detailed briefings and best practice procedures to ensure a safe snorkeling experience.
Group Size
Polar snorkeling requires at least 6 snorkelers for the activity to proceed. Please ask our team for numbers at time of booking.
How to Book
Please return the polar snorkeling activity form at the time of booking. Simply inform our Expedition Experts at time of booking that you would like to include the optional snorkeling activity to your expedition. Places are limited.
Paddling
From USD $640.00/pp
Elevate Your Adventure: The excitement of exploring remote and untamed landscapes in Antarctica, Costa Rica and the scattered isles of western
Paddling
Elevate Your Adventure: The excitement of exploring remote and untamed landscapes in Antarctica, Costa Rica and the scattered isles of western Scotland is taken to a whole new level when you become an active part of the environment. In our trusty inflatable kayaks, you’ll safely navigate through brash ice and along rugged shorelines, with penguins and fur seals as your companions, basking in the sun.
This is a one-of-a-kind chance to fully immerse yourself in the natural surroundings, right at water level in your sturdy kayaks. Adélie penguins may dart around you, and you might catch sight of an Antarctic fur seal slipping off its rock as you glide by. Your experienced guides will seek out fantastic opportunities for you to enjoy a memorable paddle and, with safety as a priority, encourage you to push your boundaries, making it an unforgettable experience.
‘Getting out amongst it’ is our philosophy, and that is exactly what we do. When you sign up as a paddler, you have the bonus of enjoying normal landings along with other expeditioners, plus an added paddling excursion.
In a small group of up to six paddlers, you will have a Zodiac dedicated to your group and two guides to look after you and to scout out ideal locations to enjoy a fun paddle.
When we visit the polar regions, the elements play an important role. Our Paddling program is suitable for complete beginners, and we will only offer a paddling excursion in calm conditions. Bring along your adventurous and positive attitude and you will have an unforgettable experience.
Our Paddling Activity is suitable for novices and no prior experience is required to participate. However, you must be able to swim independently for up to 25 metres and be confident in the water.
You must be able to walk on loose, uneven surfaces such as gravel or pebble beaches. You must also be able to get into your inflatable kayak at knee level. Although our Paddling activity requires no prior experience to participate, you are more likely to enjoy the experience more if you are mildly fit and undertake some regular gentle exercise at home, such as walking.
Polar regions
During summer the air temperature in the Antarctic Peninsula, Greenland and Spitsbergen are generally above freezing but can range from -4°C to +5°C / 24.8°F to 41°F. The water temperature in the polar regions is close to freezing and winds sweep off the glaciers, making paddling a chilling experience. In South Georgia, there are stronger winds and swells than in Antarctica. Scotland, Iceland, Norwegian coasts are warmer with water temperatures of around 12 °C/ 53.6°F.
Temperate regions
The northern waters are warmer than the polar regions but water temperatures of around 12 °C/ 53.6°F mean you may opt to wear your paddle jacket on a warm, sunny day or our dry suits on a cool day. Surf landings are not likely, but you must be capable of paddling in a small swell or wind chop, with winds up to 20 knots. With that being said, we will not paddle if wind conditions are too strong and there is no sheltered area for paddling.
Tropical regions
In Costa Rica and Panama, April is the end of the dry season. The shoulder season begins in May, bringing increased humidity. Afternoon rain showers are possible in May with temperatures ranging from 26-36 °C (80- 96 °F). Winds are generally light at this time of year. The water temperature ranges from 27 -29 °C. Surf landings are not likely, but be prepared to paddle in a small swell or wind chop, with winds up to 15 knots. Again, we will not paddle if wind conditions are too strong and there is no sheltered area for paddling.
The Paddling activity is available for an additional surcharge and includes guided excursions and paddling equipment. Fares for this activity are US$640 for all applicable Antarctica voyages, or for Wild Scotland voyage: USD $580.
Prices are indicative only and are variable. They are calculated based on the days of voyage, ability to carry out the activity and exchange rates.
FAQs
Yes, you will be supplied with a drybag for extra clothing, binoculars and anything that needs to be kept dry. You should also carry a water bottle. You are also welcome to bring along your own 5-10 litre drybag for personal items.
Paddlers should be aged 14 or over.
Yes, but we highly recommend a waterproof camera or phone, or a good quality waterproof case. Pelican cases are highly recommended for good cameras. A 1300 or 1400 model Pelican case is well suited for this activity if your camera and lens combination fit. However, you may be able to strap a larger case onto the back deck of the kayak.
Our paddling activity is generally done in combination with a shore landing and we paddle close to shore. Your group will have a dedicated safety Zodiac, and your guide will be in constant radio contact with our ship captain and expedition leader if additional support is required.
The inflatable kayaks are made of a soft multi layer pvc plastic and are easily paddled through small patches of brash ice. We manoeuvre around the larger ice chunks and floes.
Travel insurance including emergency evacuation coverage, is mandatory on all Vantage Explorations voyages. You will need to ensure that your insurance policy covers you for your activity and any related equipment. An additional policy or premium
may be required to ensure you have adequate coverage. Please contact us if you need assistance with your insurance policy.
No. Each paddling place is for one person only. Passengers are unable to ‘share’ a kayaking place as the kayaks and drysuits are individually issued and fitted for the duration of the voyage.
It is your choice how often you want to paddle. If you decide to spend more time during a landing to explore ashore, you just need to let your guide know in advance. However, we do encourage you to get out as much as you can! Please note that the activity surcharge is non-refundable and we are unable to assist you if you change your mind once on board. If you decide to fully cancel your participation in the activity during the voyage, please be aware that you will not be entitled to a refund – neither partially nor fully. Contact our team for further details on our paddling cancellation policy.
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Cabins & Prices
Before You Go
Pre-Departure Guide: Scotland & Ireland
*Terms & Conditions apply. Valid on select ship voyages only. Offer is valid on new bookings only aboard the Greg Mortimer or Sylvia Earle which must be booked and deposited by 31 Oct 2023. Promotion is subject to availability at the time of booking and capacity controlled. The promotion is only available in conjunction with the back to back voyage discount or the loyalty program offer, and not available with any other offer. The promotion can be withdrawn at any time and is not redeemable for cash. Normal booking terms and conditions apply. To confirm your booking, a completed booking form and non-refundable deposit of $2,500 pp in the booking currency is required within 7 days of reserved berth/s. Additional terms and conditions may apply. Please see full terms and conditions.
^Terms & Conditions apply. Additional 5% discount valid on both voyages but two voyages must connect back to back in terms of dates to be eligible. Offer is valid on new bookings only aboard the Greg Mortimer or Sylvia Earle. Promotions are subject to availability at the time of booking and capacity controlled. The promotion is only available in conjunction with early bird voyage discount or the loyalty program offer, and not available with any other offer. The offer can be withdrawn at any time and are not redeemable for cash. Normal booking terms and conditions apply. Please see full terms and conditions.