Methods to Journey to Antarctica by Ship and Aircraft, In response to a High Journey Advisor

So, you are planning your dream journey to Antarctica, however do not know the way to get there. There are two choices: set sail on a 48-hour journey throughout the Drake Passage by ship, or hop on a constitution and fly over. I’ve had the posh of touring to this magical a part of the world each methods, and beneath are my experiences of every. 

A New Method to Get to Antarctica 

In recent times, expedition cruise traces have begun providing itineraries that give friends the choice to skip the two-day tour at sea, and as an alternative take a two-hour flight over the Drake Passage. This may be a wonderful alternative for vacationers who haven’t got time for a multi-week journey, are intimidated of turbulent winds and tough water, or are susceptible to movement illness. 

This previous March, I went on this very journey. As a part of the itinerary aboard Silversea’s Silver Endeavour — at the moment the world’s largest ice-class expedition yacht — I took the flight over the Drake Passage to Antarctica. 

The journey started at The Ritz-Carlton, Santiago, the place all Silversea friends loved a cushty evening’s relaxation previous to boarding the three.5-hour flight to Punta Arenas, Chile. There, we spent the evening at Resort José Nogueira, situated lower than a block from Punta Arenas’ fundamental sq.. The resort was constructed as a non-public residence in 1890 and is taken into account one of many oldest buildings in Patagonia. 

The next morning, we returned to the airport and boarded our jet certain for King George Island, a part of the South Shetland Islands. In slightly below two hours, we landed on a gravel runway. A fast 10-minute Zodiac boat experience later, and there I used to be, prepared to satisfy the gorgeous Silver Endeavour. I even caught my first glimpse of penguins — a improbable welcome to Antarctica.

I discovered the surroundings to be probably the most thrilling facet of flying over the Drake Passage. The topography was completely gorgeous, and I felt fortunate to witness the formations and glaciers seen by few folks on this world.

Exploring Antarctica by Sea

On board the Silver Endeavour, I loved a full 5 days of exploring Antarctica. We ventured out within the mornings and afternoons included lunch and a nap. If somebody wanted a break from the actions, they might get pleasure from a spa therapy or attempt to spot whales whereas on the deck’s sizzling tub. Each night, the expedition group chief would focus on what we noticed that day, instructing us concerning the land and wildlife, and setting expectations for the subsequent day. Then, at dinner, we’d share drinks and dance or play video games with new buddies. 

When it was time to return to King George Island for our flight again to Punta Arenas, the captain introduced we’d as an alternative cross the Drake Passage by ship. Our aircraft wasn’t in a position to fly via the key storm heading our method. 

I used to be anticipating some fairly tall waves, however the journey was not as scary as I had imagined. As soon as we safely arrived at Puerto Williams, Chile, I boarded the ultimate aircraft again to Punta Arenas. On this journey, I discovered the most effective reminiscences occur when your detailed plans journey off beam. I am completely satisfied I used to be in a position to expertise each, and whereas there are extra advantages to flying than crossing the Drake by ship, what’s most vital is that each are thought of secure. 

Julie Jones is a member of Journey + Leisure’s A-Record and makes a speciality of customized small and expedition ship journeys. You’ll be able to create a tailored itinerary with Jones by contacting her at julie@topflight.journey.