Classic Antarctica - Fly and Cruise - M/V Sylvia Earle

13 days
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Small Group Tour
In this frozen area of extraordinary beauty, powerful orcas and leopard seals patrol the waters, while ethereal snow petrels grace the skies against a backdrop of bristling mountain ranges and surreal icebergs. Threading our way through an intricate system of icy waterways, we aim for the glorious Crystal Sound at the mouth of The Gullet. Get ready for an exc...
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Overview

Trip type
Small Group Tour
Lodging level
Premium - 4 star
Physical level
Easy

Highlights

    • A classic expedition voyage - exploring the Antarctic Peninsula
    • Enjoy the mid summer spectacle - of Antarctic wildlife
    • Sail & Fly expedition - only one crossing of the Drake Passage
    • Penguin rookeries - see Adelie, gentoo and chinstrap penguins
    • Enjoy the freedom of Antarctica - being in the vast, ice-sculpted Antarctic wilderness
    • Hear sonorous blows - of feeding humpbacks

What's this trip about?

    In this frozen area of extraordinary beauty, powerful orcas and leopard seals patrol the waters, while ethereal snow petrels grace the skies against a backdrop of bristling mountain ranges and surreal icebergs. Threading our way through an intricate system of icy waterways, we aim for the glorious Crystal Sound at the mouth of The Gullet. Get ready for an exciting Antarctic adventure, complemented by powerful whales, shimmering mountain ranges and mesmerising icebergs. Enjoy the mid summer spectacle - of Antarctic wildlife Sail & Fly expedition - only one crossing of the Drake Passage Hear sonorous blows - of feeding humpbacks

Details

Itinerary focusOff the Beaten Path
Group sizeSmall Group - max of 20 people
Age range16 to 85 years
Flights and transportN/A
Start CityUshuaia
End CityPunta Arenas

Travel Themes

  • Cultural
  • Hiking & Walking

Destinations

  • South America
  • Argentina
  • Antarctica

Attractions

  • Antarctic Peninsula
  • Punta Arenas
  • Shetland Islands
  • South Shetland Islands
  • Ushuaia

Activities

  • Hiking

Itinerary

Day 1 Arrive Punta Arenas

Arrive in Punta Arenas (PUQ) where you will be met and transferred to your hotel. We ask that you arrive no later than 4 pm so that you may attend our important briefing this evening. Please visit the hospitality desk in the lobby between 10 am - 6 pm to collect...

Day 2 Fly to King George Island and embark the M/V Sylvia Earle

This morning you will be transferred to Punta Arenas airport for your early morning charter flight to King George Island, Antarctica, the flight will take approximately one-and-a-half-hours. On arrival at King George Island, the expedition team will be on hand to gree...

Day 3 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. .

Meals Provided : Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

Day 4 Antarctic Peninsula

Once we arrive, the western side of the Antarctic Peninsula and the South Shetland Islands are yours to explore, and there are a host of choices available to us. Being so far south, we will experience approximately 18-24 hours of daylight and the days can be as busy as you wish.

Meals Provided : Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

Day 5 Antarctic Peninsula

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.

Meals Provided : Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

Day 6 Antarctic Peninsula

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 th...

Day 7 Antarctic 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...

Day 8 Antarctic Peninsula

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. This is a great time to enjoy the observation lou...

Day 8 Antarctic Peninsula

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. This is a great time to enjoy the observation lou...

Day 9 Antarctic Peninsula

During our time in Antarctica, there are many exciting places we can choose to visit and we may make a stop at a few or many of the following : Paradise Harbour A protected bay surrounded by magnificent peaks and breath-taking glaciers, the rocky cliffs provide a ...

Day 10 Antarctic Peninsula

Enjoy a final morning landing in the South Shetland Islands before we re-enter the Drake Passage for our return journey to South America. With lectures and film presentations to complete our Antarctic experience, there is still plenty of time to enjoy the magic of...

Day 11 Drake Passage

As we approach the tip of South America, our Captain may sail close to legendary Cape Horn, weather and time permitting.

Meals Provided : Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

Day 12 Drake Passage

During the early morning, we cruise up the Beagle Channel, before quietly slipping into dock in Ushuaia, where we will be free to disembark around 8 am. Bid farewell to your expedition team and fellow passengers as you all continue on your onward journeys. On disem...

Day 13 Trip ends Ushuaia

During the early morning, we cruise up the Beagle Channel, before quietly slipping into dock in Ushuaia. The trip ends after breakfast on board the ship. There are no activities planned today, so you are free to depart at any time after 12 pm. For those on morning fli...

Day 1 Arrive Ushuaia

Arrive in Ushuaia (USH) where you will be met by a representative and transferred with your fellow expeditioners to your assigned pre-voyage hotel. If you are already in Ushuaia, we ask you to make your way to your hotel. Check-in is from 3 pm. This afternoon, visit t...

Day 2 Embark the M/V Sylvia Earle

This morning, enjoy breakfast and check-out. Please ensure your cabin luggage is fitted with cabin tags clearly labelled with your name and cabin number. Take your cabin luggage to hotel reception, prior to, or at check-out. Your luggage will be stored and transferred...

Day 3 Antarctic Peninsula

As we commence the Drake Passage crossing, we make the most of our time getting comfortable with the motions of the sea. Our expedition team prepare you for our first landing with important wildlife guidelines and biosecurity procedures and start our lecture program t...

Day 4 Antarctic Peninsula

Nearing the South Shetland Islands and the tip of the Antarctic Peninsula on the afternoon of day four, the excitement is palpable with everyone converging on one of the observation decks watching for our first iceberg. The ocean takes on a whole new perspective once ...

Day 5 Antarctic Peninsula

It is 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.

Meals Provided : Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

Day 6 Antarctic Peninsula

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.

Meals Provided : Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

Day 7 Antarctic Peninsula

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.

Meals Provided : Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

Day 8 Antarctic 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 part...

Day 8 Antarctic Peninsula

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. This is a great time to enjoy the observation lou...

Day 9 Antarctic Peninsula

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. This is a great time to enjoy the observation lou...

Day 10 Antarctic Peninsula

As we approach Frei Base on King George Island, it is time to farewell Antarctica and our amazing adventure before boarding our flight (approximately one hour and forty-five minutes) to Punta Arenas, Chile. There is time for reflection and discussion about what we hav...

Day 11 Drake Passage

After breakfast, bid a fond farewell to your fellow travellers as you continue on your onward journeys. A transfer to the airport is included in the voyage cost.

Meals Provided : Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

Day 12 Trip ends in Punta Arenas

During the early morning, we cruise up the Beagle Channel, before quietly slipping into dock in Ushuaia. The trip ends after breakfast on board the ship. There are no activities planned today, so you are free to depart at any time after 12 pm. For those on morning fli...

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Dates & Availability

Price From $16,860
Price per day$1,297
Last Updated: 4/25/2024

Check Current Availability, prices, specials with Explore!.

The total tour cost includes the tour price (regular or promotional) and the compulsory local payment. The promotional price is subject to change. Check directly with the operator for the latest price offer. The tour operator requires you to pay only the tour price to purchase your travel. The compulsory local payment will be paid when you join the trip. All prices are based on double, twin or triple share occupancy. Solo passengers will be accommodated in a double, twin or triple room according to availability with a passenger(s) of the same gender. Single supplement only needs to be paid if the passenger does not want to share and requests their own room. Discounts can only be applied at the time of booking and cannot be added at a later date, regardless of any changes made to the original booking.

Prices may vary due to local taxes and trip seasonality. Click "Request Info" to inquire directly with the tour operator for the final trip price.

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About Explore

We've been taking small groups on adventure vacations for over 41 years. Our authentic adventure travel experiences explore the sights and culture of a country, with hand-picked accommodation that balances comfort and location. Our average group tour size is just 11; perfect for meeting new people and getting to the heart of our destinations. Explore is one of the world's most trusted adventure travel companies with over 350 trips to more than 100 countries. We are passionate about travel and have developed a wide range of unique activities and adventures which give our customers an unforgettable experience with a team of award-winning Explore leaders. With Explore, you'll get to see your destination from a whole new perspective that takes you away from the typical well-trodden tourist track. You'll have the chance to meet, dine and stay with local people, rest in authentic accommodation with other like-minded explorers and travel to must-see destinations with a unique Explore twist. From family holidays to trips for solo travelers; cycling tours to wildlife safaris; trekking on mountains or exploring miles of scenic coastline, there is something for every kind of traveler with Explore. We will provide our expert knowledge, exciting itineraries and outstanding service as part of our sustainable travel experiences which take you under the skin of the country you're visiting for the adventure of a lifetime.


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Logistics

Transportation & Flights

M/V Sylvia Earle, Zodiac,

Transportation & flights

M/V Sylvia Earle, Zodiac
Guides
Expedition Crew, Naturalist(s)
Cancellation policy
These conditions are applicable to Discovery & Wildlife, Cycling, Walking and Family Trips. These conditions were updated November 2022. Booked a Polar trip? Please refer to our Polar booking conditions. To make it easy to know the detail of our flexibility, we’ve put it in a grid (these terms apply to all trips apart from our Polar Voyages.) Standard cancellations or changes within 69 days of travel If you’re getting closer to your trip, cancellation charges will apply as follows: For trips confirmed by 31st December 2022: 59-42 days before trip start date – 30%, or loss of deposit if higher 41-28 days before trip start date – 60% 27-14 days before trip start date – 90% Less than 14 days before trip start date – 100% For trips confirmed from 1st January 2023: 69 -42 days before trip start date – 30%, or loss of deposit if higher 41-28 days before trip start date – 60% 27-14 days before trip start date – 90% Less than 14 days before trip start date – 100%
Travel Insurance
We strongly recommend purchasing travel insurance alongside your travel package to safeguard against unforeseen circumstances such as medical expenses, trip cancellations, and other contingencies. It offers you peace of mind and ensures you are prepared for unexpected events that may occur before or during your journey
Visa requirements
All visa information is subject to change. You should confirm all visa related issues with the relevant Embassy prior to departure. USA (If flights transit): you will need to apply for an ESTA if you are transiting the USA as you will have to disembark and clear immigration before re-boarding for the onward flight. Citizens of the UK, New Zealand, Australia, Canada and passport holders from several EU countries can enter the United States without a visa under the Visa Waiver Program (VWP) - where you apply for an ESTA (Electronic System for Travel Authorisation), which applies if you enter the country by sea or by air. This must be done on line - https://esta.cbp.dhs.gov no later than 72 hours prior to travel. Travellers who have not registered before their trip are likely be refused boarding. When completing an application for transit you should enter the words 'In Transit' with your final destination location in the address line You must have an electronic passport with a digital chip containing biometric information about the passport owner. UK passports which are biometric feature a small gold symbol (camera) at the bottom of the front cover. If you have visited Iraq, Syria, Iran or Sudan in the past five years or are dual nationals of these countries, you cannot travel under the Visa Waiver Programme. Instead you will need to apply for a visa from the nearest US Embassy or Consulate. If you are unable to provide a valid visa before boarding flights to the US, or entering via another method, you may not be permitted to travel. For further information please check out the US embassy website. Visa applications - http://london.usembassy.gov/niv/apply.html
Health & Safety
Nothing compulsory, we recommend protection against typhoid, tetanus, diphtheria, polio and hepatitis A. Please check the latest requirements with your travel clinic or doctor prior to departure. The above is not an exhaustive list. Further information regarding vaccinations and travel health advice can be found by following the NHS and NaTHNaC links at <a href="https://www.explore.co.uk/essential-information/know-before-you-go/travel-health">Explore Travel Health</a> and from your local healthcare provider. Visa and vaccination requirements are subject to change and should be confirmed by you before travelling.
Meals Included
    • Breakfast : 12
    • Dinner : 11
    • Lunch : 10
  • Breakfast : 11
  • Dinner : 10
  • Lunch : 9
Age Requirements
16 to 85 years
Additional Information
Trip ID
explore-SEAX

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