
Polar Circle Air-Cruise
The Polar Circle air-cruise is one of our most adventurous itineraries. Our main goal on this expedition is to attempt to reach the Antarctic Circle located at approximately 66° south of the equator. The Expedition Team crafts every voyage depending on the Antarctic weather and each day of the Polar Circle air-cruise is filled with ample opportunities to explore.
Magellan Explorer
Ocean Nova
Hiking Snowshoing
Hotel & Transfer
Package
Itinerary at a Glance
An extended 10-day journey venturing toward the Antarctic Circle, offering intrepid travelers a deeper exploration of the White Continent's most remote and spectacular regions.

Day 1
Start of the Air-Cruise
Arrive in Punta Arenas, Chile, where you are welcomed by Antarctica21 staff and transferred to your hotel. Before 2 PM, you are expected at Explorers House for your check-in, for a mandatory briefing that provides important information about your air-cruise and essential guidelines for Antarctic visitors. Later, gather for a welcome dinner and meet your fellow adventurers while enjoying a typical regional menu.
Day 2
Scheduled Flight to Antarctica
A two-hour flight takes you from Punta Arenas to King George Island, in the South Shetland Islands. Your Antarctic adventure begins as you exit the airplane, and the clear Antarctic air fills your lungs for the first time. You then board a transfer vehicle and pass Chile’s Frei Station and Russia’s Bellingshausen Station to reach the shore and board a Zodiac that will take you to your boutique expedition vessel.
Day 3-8
Exploring Antarctica
Sail along ice-filled fjords and among spectacular icebergs, while enjoying the company of seabirds, penguins, seals, and whales. Visit the South Shetland Islands and the western coast of the Antarctic Peninsula, disembarking by Zodiac each day. In small groups, hike to extraordinary sites and take part in exploratory Zodiac excursions to otherwise inaccessible areas. Our expert polar guides share their passion for Antarctica through an engaging
Enjoy spectacular views, from the glass-enclosed lounge, while sharing your daily adventures with fellow guests over a drink. The goal of this expedition is to sail far south in the attempt to reach the Polar Circle. The Expedition Team plans the specific voyage route based on local conditions and takes advantage of the ever-changing opportunities provided by nature. Flexibility will be the key to a successful voyage. Your voyage may include visits to sites in the South Shetland Islands, the Gerlache and Penola Straits, and the Crystal Sound. Each voyage is unique, and crafted to provide the best possible overview of the varied Antarctic environment.
Day 9
Scheduled Return Flight from Antarctica
Back at King George Island, bid farewell to Antarctica as you board the flight to Punta Arenas. Upon arrival, transfer to your hotel for the night. (Note: Meals in Punta Arenas are at your leisure and not included in the program).
Day 10
End of the air-cruise
After breakfast, transfer to the Punta Arenas airport for your onward flight.
Choose your ship
The Polar Circle air-cruise is available on two of our expedition ships. Review which small vessel is best for your Antarctic cruise.
A State-of-the-Art Polar Vessel with Modern Design
This custom-built expedition vessel, launched in 2019, was designed for Antarctic air-cruises and meets the latest Polar Code specifications. It offers seven accommodation categories, with most cabins featuring private balconies. The ship includes a spacious observation lounge, a presentation room with advanced audiovisual equipment, a stylish dining room, bar, library, meeting room, gym, sauna, and medical clinic. A forward-facing observation deck leads to the ship's bow, providing close access to marine wildlife.
For complete Air-Cruise pricing details review our brochure.
A Small Vessel Built for Adventure
Ocean Nova is a sturdy and nimble expedition vessel, with an ice-strengthened hull that is ideally suited for expedition travel in Antarctica. The ship offers three accommodation categories: Single Cabins, Twin Cabins, and Triple Cabins.In addition to a glass-enclosed observation lounge, it also features a spacious dining room, a bar, a library, a small gym, and an infirmary. The vessel has a fleet of seven Zodiacs that are well suited for disembarking and wildlife watching.
For complete Air-Cruise pricing details review our brochure.
Antarctic Air-Cruise inclusions
Pre- and Post-Voyage Info
Comprehensive pre- and post-voyage information material.
Airport - Hotel Transfers
Group transfers from the airport and hotel on Day 1 for guests arriving in Punta Arenas and from the hotel to the airport on the last day of the air-cruise itinerary.
Welcome Dinner at Explorers House
Welcome dinner on Day 1 at Explorers House in Punta Arenas.
Hotel in Punta Arenas
Two nights stay with breakfast in Punta Arenas at the Cabo de Hornos Hotel or similar on Day 1 and the day of the scheduled return flight from Antarctica.
Antarctic Flight & Cruise
Ship cruise and flight from Punta Arenas, Chile, to King George Island, Antarctica, and/or vice versa as indicated in the program corresponding to each air-cruise itinerary.
Excursions & Activities
Guided shore landings and Zodiac excursions in Antarctica, as well as lectures and entertainment on board your boutique vessel.
Meals & Beverages
Daily buffet breakfast and lunch, and à la carte dinner, as well as wine, beer, juice, soft drinks, coffee, tea, chocolate, cappuccino, water, and snacks on board the ship.
Contingency Plan & More
Contingency plan, loan of waterproof boots for landings in Antarctica, and IAATO passenger fee.
Exclusive Access to Explorers House
Special access to Explorers House for guests in Punta Arenas.
Optional Extras
For your air-cruise, you can choose a few additional services to enhance your expedition experience with us.
Sea Kayaking
Our Sea Kayaking program is an exclusive experience under the guidance and leadership of an experienced Kayak Master, who takes our guests on a sea journey through icy waters while observing massive glaciers and aquatic wildlife.
Hiking & Snowshoeing
A Hiking & Snowshoeing Guide leads a small group of adventurers who wish to explore further while on land as they gain elevation and explore the landscape.
Hotel & Transfer Package
Most air-cruises start and end in Punta Arenas. Should you wish to arrive in Punta Arenas a day earlier or spend an extra night after you return from Antarctica, we offer a convenient Hotel & Transfer Package.The package includes accommodation at the Cabo de Hornos Hotel or similar and combines perfectly with your Antarctic air-cruise. With a single check-in you will ensure that the hotel room for your extra night in Punta Arenas is the same as that included in your air-cruise itinerary.
Take Advantage Of Our Promotions
Upcoming Departures
Our Polar Circle air-cruises are available across multiple seasons onboard our polar vessels.



See Our Brochures for More Details
Download our trip collections available for the 2025-26 and 2026-27 seasons.



Keep exploring our range of expeditions
Antarctica21 operates Fly & Cruise Expeditions to Antarctica and Sea Voyages to Antarctica, the Falkland Islands (Islas Malvinas), South Georgia, and Patagonia & Chilean Fjords. Our trips are boutique wilderness adventures taking you to Antarctica and beyond.
Traveler Reviews
"Expedition leader and staff more than exceeded my expectations – so qualified, intelligent, passionate and patient. By the end of our few days, they felt like old friends. I’ll really miss them and the environment they created for me and my family."
Lucy M - Traveler from USA
Experience the Extraordinary
From dramatic landscapes to close wildlife encounters, every journey to the White Continent is unique. Let's start planning yours together.
