Antarctica Express Air-Cruise
Overview
Antarctica Express Air-Cruise was designed for travelers who are looking to make a quick and affordable expedition to Antarctica. The journey offers the chance to visit Cape Horn, travel the Drake Passage and land in Antarctica before returning by air.Small Ship Cruising
- Guaranteed Departures
- Small Ship Cruise
- Unique Itineraries
Itinerary
Boarding in Ushuaia in the afternoon. The vessel sails through the Beagle Channel toward Puerto Williams before heading south toward the Drake Passage.
After an overnight trip through Nassau Bay you will wake up to a stunning view of Cape Horn. You can hop in a Zodiac if the weather permits and be one of the few who have the privilege to visit this famous and rarely-visited Island. After returning to your ship, you will continue on the voyage towards Antarctica. You will cross the famous passage named after Sir Francis Drake the 16th century British explorer.
Continued crossing of the Drake Passage. Onboard lectures and wildlife observation take place as the ship approaches Antarctic waters.
Arrival in Antarctica. After crossing the Antarctic Convergence, the ship reaches the South Shetland Islands. Zodiac landings are conducted, including visits to penguin colonies, taking advantage of extended daylight hours.
Disembarkation in Antarctica and return flight. Guests land at Fildes Bay on King George Island and fly back to Punta Arenas. Transfer to the hotel upon arrival. Dinner is not included.
After breakfast, guests are transferred to the airport for onward flights.
Inclusions
Ship-based expedition as described in the selected itinerary
Scheduled flight between Punta Arenas and King George Island (as applicable)
Airport–hotel–airport group transfers in Punta Arenas (for itineraries starting or ending there)
One hotel night in Punta Arenas before and/or after the expedition (as per itinerary)
Welcome dinner at Explorers House (for Punta Arenas starts)
Daily breakfast and lunch on board
Three-course dinners on board
Wine, beer, soft drinks, and juice during meals on board
Coffee, tea, water, hot chocolate, and snacks throughout the voyage
All guided Zodiac excursions and shore landings
Lectures and educational programs on board
Loan of waterproof boots for Antarctic landings
IAATO passenger fee
Contingency Plan
Internet access (standard or premium, depending on cabin category)
Exclusions
International or domestic flights to/from Punta Arenas or Ushuaia
Meals in Punta Arenas not specifically listed as included
Beverages purchased at the ship’s bar
Personal travel or medical insurance
Optional activities not included in the base itinerary
Laundry, communications, souvenirs, or personal expenses
Gratuities
Visa fees or passport-related expenses
Arrival or departure taxes, if applicable
Notes
Highlights
Zodiac landings, hikes, and expert-led presentations offer a comprehensive Antarctic experience.
Observe diverse wildlife like whales, seals, penguins, and seabirds.
Witness the first icebergs and landmasses as you approach the continent.
Magellan Explorer is the first expedition ship meticulously designed for Antarctic air cruise operation. It represents a convergence between top-tier expeditions and boutique hotel hospitality.
The Magellan Explorer was designed by a team of designers, engineers and naval architects who worked together to create a robust, yet agile vehicle. Magellan has incorporated intelligent, sustainable and tailored solutions to enhance the guest experience. This will position Magellan at the centre of air-cruise endeavour.
Interior Design
Interiors designed to provide utmost luxury and modern aesthetics invite guests to relax and enjoy the journey. Enrique Concha & Co. of Santiago de Chile, a renowned design studio, carefully curated each aspect from colours, materials and lighting to enhance your onboard experience.
Cabins and Suites
Magellan Explorer air cruises can accommodate up to 73 passengers in seven different categories. All cabins have private balconies, except for Porthole Cabins. In most double cabins, twin beds can be configured into a larger bed. The accommodation includes a closet, an individually-controlled heating system, a comfortable sitting area and a bathroom with heated floors and a shower.
Destination Experience from the Inside
Magellan Explorer’s public areas are designed with care to create a connection between the vessel and its environment. Accessible bow provides guests with a close proximity to water, allowing for unmatched wildlife photography and observation. A forward-facing lounge, bar and educational program, led by experts, create a memorable experience. Outdoor observation decks provide sweeping panoramas, encouraging close engagement with natural landscapes. Dining in the dining room is a scenic experience with its large windows. A meeting room is available, as are a library themed on Antarctica, a gift store, and an outdoor BBQ area with a shelter. There's also a sauna and gym.
Magellan Explorer Features
The ship is Polar Class 6 ice class (Lloyd's Register, PC6). The ship's stabilizers, bow thrusters and stern propellers ensure comfortable navigation and manoeuvrability. An ice-detecting system and an energy recovery system reduce the environmental impact of the vessel by reusing the heat produced by the engine to warm up the vessel.
OPTIONAL / ADDITIONAL SERVICES
Sea Kayaking Program (must be booked in advance)
Hiking & Snowshoeing excursions (booked on board)
Private charter flights
Cabin upgrades
Single-use cabin supplements
Additional hotel nights in Punta Arenas
Private transfers
