Drake Express

Day 1: Punta Arenas

You will be met by a cruise representative on arrival at your hotel in Punta Arenas and updated on the schedule for the following day. The evening is free for you to explore.

Day 2: Fly to King George Island, South Shetland Islands and Embark

After an early breakfast you will transfer to the airport for your flight to King George Island, South Shetland Islands. On arrival you will be transferred to the ship for embarkation.

King George Island, South Shetland Islands Your charter flight lands in or departs from Eduardo Frei Montalva Station on King George Island, the Chilean air base for Antarctica expeditions with flight options over the Drake Passage. Lying within the Fildes Peninsula, where Chile laid claim to Antarctic territory, the base is an important research station. Made up of over 40 buildings that include a school, bank, hospital and post office, it resembles more a small village than a base. King George Island has come to be known as the unofficial capital of Antarctica with its various research stations located on the island. As a haven for an incredible amount of wildlife, including chinstrap and Gentoo penguins, and elephant, leopard and Weddell seals, it’s a prime locale for scientific research.

Day 3: Exploring the South Shetland Islands - Captain’s Choice, Antarctica

Part of the greater Antarctica region, the South Shetland Islands contain plenty of wildlife, scenic landscapes, hiking opportunities and magnificent viewpoints that inspire a sense of discovering another world. A possible landing on Elephant Island, named for the shape of its cliffside and the elephant seals that call it home, puts you on the same path as the famous Shackleton Expedition. Deception Island, another possible landing and named for its very nature, is in fact a volcanic caldera where you can find heated springs amid the striking black sands. Other stops could include Half Moon Island, Yankee Harbor, Point Wild and Barrientos Island, where you can find plenty of Gentoo penguin rookeries.

CAPTAIN’S CHOICE - Captain’s Choice ports of call add to the sense of adventure and an element of surprise. Your ship’s captain will sail around changing weather conditions as needed and take you to the best areas for wildlife viewing.

Day 4 to 6: Exploring Antarctica - Captain’s Choice

Nicknamed The White Continent for its vast expanse of icebergs, snow and glaciers, Antarctica is often the final frontier for experienced explorers to conquer. As you navigate Antarctic waters, you may set foot on sites like Beak Island, Brown Bluff, Cierva Cove, Hidden Bay and many more. Each landing throughout the continent offers its own unique landscape, from expansive tundra to rugged mountain peaks, all beckoning you to follow the paths that few explorers have trekked before.

CAPTAIN’S CHOICE - Captain’s Choice ports of call add to the sense of adventure and an element of surprise. Your ship’s captain will sail around changing weather conditions as needed and take you to the best areas for wildlife viewing.

Day 7: King George Island, South Shetland Islands

King George Island, South Shetland Islands Your charter flight lands in or departs from Eduardo Frei Montalva Station on King George Island, the Chilean air base for Antarctica expeditions with flight options over the Drake Passage. Lying within the Fildes Peninsula, where Chile laid claim to Antarctic territory, the base is an important research station. Made up of over 40 buildings that include a school, bank, hospital and post office, it resembles more a small village than a base. King George Island has come to be known as the unofficial capital of Antarctica with its various research stations located on the island. As a haven for an incredible amount of wildlife, including chinstrap and Gentoo penguins, and elephant, leopard and Weddell seals, it’s a prime locale for scientific research.

After breakfast you will disembark and transfer to the airport for your flight to Punta Arenas.

• Government Taxes & Fees
• 1 night in Punta Arenas hotel the day after your cruise and one night pre cruise in Punta Arenas
• Private charter jet service: Punta Arenas to King George Island and King George Island to Punta Arenas
• Group Transfer Punta Arenas Port to Punta Arenas Hotel on Disembarkation Day
• Shore landings led by expert field guides
• Escorted sightseeing safaris by Zodiac
• Polar plunge
• Parka and vest
• Use of knee boots
• Enrichment lectures and destination briefings
• Cultural immersion
• Dining venues with ever-changing menus
• Unlimited beverages, including fine wines, spirits and craft beers
• Open bars and lounges, including 24-hour bar service with specialty canapés
• Stocked in-room minibar
• Specialty coffees, teas and fresh-pressed juices
• Afternoon and high tea
• Champagne and gourmet canapés during meet and greet
• 24-hour room service, including spirits, wine and beer
• L'OCCITANE bath amenities
• Pre-paid gratuities
• Use of walking sticks and binoculars
• Reusable water bottle
• Butler service and expanded room service menu in suites

• International Airfares
• Internal airfares
• Airport entrance
• Passport, visa, and immigration fees
• Additional hotel nights
• Travel Protection Plan
• Any items not mentioned as included