The best Antarctica fly-cruises

Antarctica is a bucket-list destination and a once in a lifetime experience for so many. The White Continent is a photographer’s dream, and its beauty is almost beyond compare with the clear blue seas, snowy landscapes and icebergs creating a stunning backdrop. Wildlife is plentiful from several breeds of penguin to leopard seals, birds and of course whales including humpback and even orcas. The only way to experience Antarctica as a traveller is by cruise, sailing around the peninsula and going ashore each day to explore. One of the biggest talking points about Antarctica is the crossing of the Drake Passage, the passage of water between Cape Horn, Antarctica and the South Shetland Islands. Known as the roughest stretch of sea in the world, it is understandably a daunting prospect for many wishing to reach Antarctica and it is hard to predict what the crossing will be like. The Drake Lake, would be the ideal, with relatively waters over the two days it takes to cross this stretch of water, or the Drake Shake, which will often send your room service sliding across the cabin.

One way of eliminating the Drake Passage, is to take a fly cruise to Antarctica. This involves taking a flight from Punta Arenas in Chile out to King George Island in Antarctica, meaning that you reach Antarctica in just two hours instead of two days. This option is perfect for those short on time as it shortens the trip by up to four days, or for those nervous of the Drake Passage.

We have picked our favourite fly-cruise options for the best explorations of the Antarctic Peninsula.

Silversea

The Silver Endeavour is the newest addition to Silversea’s fleet of luxury ships, heralding a new class of luxury expedition travel. The ship features a PC6 ice-class rating and state-of-the-art exploration technology and equipment. It takes voyagers even deeper into some of the most remote polar destinations on the planet, all in complete luxury with the signature style we have come to expect from Silversea.

The Silver Endeavour offers facilities for up to 200 guests spread over eight public decks including seven different categories of luxury cabins. Each features featuring a balcony and butler service. Throughout the ship there are multiple leisure options and several excellent restaurants serving gourmet cuisine. The crew to guest ratio on the Silver Endeavour is an exceptional 1:1, meaning that service is second to none.

Silversea is renowned for its exceptional culinary experiences, and its Antarctica voyages are no exception. Passengers can indulge in gourmet cuisine prepared by talented chefs using the finest ingredients, with menus inspired by the flavours of the region and complemented by a selection of fine wines and spirits.

Guests can head to the Explorer Lounge for the daily briefing sessions and the variety of lectures that are on offer during the voyage. Relax and unwind in the spa after a day exploring on the ice or keep up with your exercise regime in The Fitness Centre with top class equipment, a range of classes and personal training sessions.

Silversea’s Antarctica voyages are led by a team of experienced expedition leaders, naturalists, and historians who are passionate about the region. These knowledgeable experts provide insightful commentary, lead shore excursions, and offer educational presentations, enhancing passengers’ understanding and appreciation of Antarctica’s unique environment and history.

The Observation Lounge is a favourite spot for enjoying the view onboard. 270-degree windows ensure that guests can be fully immersed in your destination. The pool deck is completely enclosed in glass, allowing guests to relax in the pool while still enjoying the breath-taking views.

Silversea demonstrates a deep commitment to the environment, from safe waste-management practices to reducing carbon emissions and installing water saving devices. Their environmental policy reflects its commitment to environmental sustainability, responsible tourism, and the protection of the world’s oceans and natural environments.

Silversea Expeditions’ Antarctica voyages offer a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to explore one of the last untouched wildernesses on Earth in unparalleled luxury and style. With a focus on adventure, education, and conservation, these voyages promise unforgettable experiences and memories that will last a lifetime.

Lindblad Expeditions

The Lindblad National Geographic Explorer is a state-of-the-art expedition ship operated by Lindblad Expeditions in partnership with National Geographic. Designed to navigate some of the world’s most remote and pristine regions, it offers passengers the opportunity to explore Antarctica in comfort and style.

The ship is purpose-built for expedition cruising, featuring ice-strengthened hulls that allow it to navigate polar waters safely. Despite its expedition focus, the Explorer provides comfortable and well-appointed accommodations for passengers. These range from cosy solo cabins to spacious suites, all designed to provide a comfortable retreat after a day of exploration. Communal areas offer the same comforts including a lounge area, library, observation decks, fitness centre, spa facilities, and dining venues serving gourmet cuisine.

One of the hallmarks of Lindblad Expeditions is its team of expert naturalists, historians, and photographers who accompany passengers on their voyages. These knowledgeable guides lead shore excursions, give informative lectures, and provide insights into the destinations visited.

In line with National Geographic’s commitment to exploration and education, the Explorer offers a range of educational programs and activities. Passengers have the opportunity to learn about the natural history, wildlife, and cultural heritage of the regions they visit through lectures, workshops, and hands-on experiences.

Lindblad Expeditions places a strong emphasis on environmental sustainability and conservation. The Explorer is equipped with advanced technology to minimize its environmental impact, and the company supports various conservation initiatives aimed at protecting the places it visits.

Overall, the Lindblad National Geographic Explorer offers a unique blend of adventure, comfort, and education, making it a popular choice for travellers seeking immersive and enriching expedition experiences in some of the world’s most remote and pristine destinations.

AE Expeditions

AE Expeditions specialises in small-group adventures to remote and wild destinations. Launched in 2019, the Greg Mortimer represents a new era of expedition cruising, combining innovative design, advanced technology, and a commitment to sustainability.

The ship boasts a sleek and innovative design, optimized for expedition cruising in challenging environments. It features a patented X-Bow® design, which enhances stability, reduces vibration, and improves fuel efficiency, providing passengers with a smoother and more comfortable experience, especially in rough seas.

Designed for polar exploration, the Greg Mortimer is ice-strengthened and equipped with state-of-the-art navigation and safety equipment. It can comfortably navigate through ice-choked waters, allowing passengers to explore Antarctica with ease.

Despite its expedition focus, the Greg Mortimer offers comfortable and stylish accommodations for passengers. The ship features a range of cabin options, including twin, double, and triple cabins, as well as suites, all elegantly appointed with modern amenities and panoramic views of the surrounding landscapes. There are a range of onboard amenities to ensure passengers’ comfort and enjoyment during their expedition. These include a spacious lounge and bar area, a well-equipped gym, a sauna and spa facilities, and a dining room serving delicious meals prepared by onboard chefs.

AE Expeditions prides itself on its team of experienced expedition leaders, naturalists, and guides who accompany passengers on their adventures. The knowledgeable staff provides informative lectures, leads shore excursions, and offers insights into the wildlife, history, and geology of the destinations visited. In line with the expedition experience, the Greg Mortimer offers educational programs and activities designed to enhance passengers’ understanding of the environments they explore. This may include lectures, workshops, and hands-on experiences focused on topics such as wildlife biology, climate science, and cultural anthropology.

The Greg Mortimer is equipped with advanced waste management systems, energy-efficient technologies, and low-impact shore excursion practices to minimize its environmental footprint and preserve the pristine wilderness areas it visits.

The Greg Mortimer offers an exceptional expedition cruise experience, combining comfort, adventure, and sustainability in some of the world’s most remote and breathtaking destinations. Whether exploring the polar regions or other wild landscapes, passengers aboard the Greg Mortimer are sure to create unforgettable memories of their expedition journey.

Antarctica21

The Magellan Explorer is a modern expedition vessel operated by Antarctica21, designed to provide travellers with an intimate and comfortable experience while exploring the pristine wilderness of Antarctica.

The Magellan Explorer is purpose-built for navigating the icy waters of Antarctica, equipped with ice-strengthened hulls and state-of-the-art technology to ensure safe passage through polar environments. Its small size allows for access to remote locations and wildlife-rich areas that larger ships cannot reach.

With a capacity for around 73 passengers, the Magellan Explorer offers an intimate and personalized expedition experience. This smaller size fosters a sense of camaraderie among travellers and allows for close interactions with expedition staff.

Despite its compact size, the Magellan Explorer provides comfortable and well-appointed accommodations for passengers. The ship features a variety of cabin options, including suites with private balconies, all elegantly furnished and equipped with modern amenities to ensure a comfortable stay. While the primary focus of the Magellan Explorer is on exploration, the ship also provides amenities to ensure passengers’ comfort and enjoyment during their expedition. These may include a dining room serving delicious meals prepared by onboard chefs, a lounge area for socializing and relaxation, and observation decks for enjoying the breathtaking Antarctic scenery.

Antarctica21 prides itself on its team of experienced expedition leaders, naturalists, and guides who accompany passengers on their Antarctic adventures aboard the Magellan Explorer. These knowledgeable experts provide insightful commentary, lead shore excursions, and offer educational presentations, enriching passengers’ experiences with their expertise.

In addition to wildlife viewing and exploration activities, guests can take advantage of educational programs and lectures designed to enhance understanding of Antarctica. Enjoy the opportunity to learn about the region’s wildlife, history, and environmental conservation efforts through engaging presentations and workshops.

Antarctica21 works hard to promote environmental sustainability and preserve the fragile Antarctic ecosystem. The Magellan Explorer is equipped with advanced waste management systems and eco-friendly technologies to minimize its environmental impact.

The Magellan Explorer offers an exceptional expedition cruise experience, combining comfort, adventure, and environmental responsibility in one of the world’s most remote and breathtaking destinations. Whether observing penguins, cruising past glaciers, or marvelling at the beauty of the Antarctic landscape, passengers aboard the Magellan Explorer are sure to create unforgettable memories of their Antarctic expedition.

Quark Expeditions

The Ocean Explorer, is the newest member of the Quark fleet, is a modern and elegant ship, purpose-built for polar exploration.The 138-passenger vessel has been designed with the latest in expedition ship technology. A key feature is the ULSTEIN X-BOW®, a marine engineering innovation that ensures a comfortable and smooth sailing experience thanks to the inverted bow.

The cabins are spacious and decorated in a bespoke Scandinavian design, creating a light and airy feel. Guests make use of the various amenities throughout the ship including a spacious gym, sauna and two outdoor Jacuzzis, allowing for relaxation with exceptional views. 

Ocean Explorer offers facilities that allow guests to make the most of the spectacular surroundings as they explore Antarctica. Viewing areas and multi-height outer decks, are ideal for long-view photography and wildlife viewing. The fleet of Zodiacs allows guests to get off the ship quickly and safely for onshore exploration.

Quark Expeditions prides itself on its team of experienced expedition leaders, naturalists, and guides who accompany passengers on their polar adventures. These knowledgeable experts lead shore excursions, provide informative lectures, and offer insights into the wildlife, history, and geology of the polar regions. In line with the expedition experience, the Ocean Explorer offers educational programs and activities aimed at enhancing passengers’ understanding of the polar environment.

Quark is committed to environmental sustainability and responsible tourism practices. The Ocean Explorer is equipped with advanced technology to minimize its environmental impact, and the company adheres to strict guidelines to protect the fragile polar ecosystems.

The Ocean Explorer offers a unique opportunity for adventurous travellers to explore the polar regions in a small, intimate setting, with experienced guides leading the way and providing insights into these remote and fascinating environments.