Highlights of Antarctica
Fly the Drake & Discover the Antarctic Peninsula aboard the MS Hebridean Sky with Antarctica21
- 28 January 2022
We are delighted to be working with our associates at Antarctica21 who have chartered our all-suite MS Hebridean Sky and made some suites available for our passengers for their air-cruise expedition to Antarctica, an undertaking they pioneered in 2003. For those with limited time or who would prefer to fly over the Drake Passage in two hours rather than sail across it in two days, this air-cruise alternative is ideal and offers quick and direct access to the White Continent.
It is hard to put into words the sheer grandeur of an Antarctic landscape. Enormous icebergs rise from the sea, hillsides are covered with thousands of penguins and seals bask on icebergs dotted in the ocean; the sights, sounds and emotions will stay with you forever. This expedition in February takes place during what is regarded as summer when whale and dolphin sightings are at their peak, penguin chicks begin to fledge and the snow algae is in bloom.
As pioneers of the Antarctica air-cruise sector, Antarctica21 understand intimately how to coordinate air and sea operations in the changeable Antarctic environment. They have completed over 200 fly-cruise departures, far more than any other company. For this expedition, they limit the number of guests on board the MS Hebridean Sky to just 75 which allows for a smooth and fast embarkation, an excellent staff to guest ratio with at least 12 expert polar guides joining you on board and perhaps most importantly of all, maximum time exploring ashore. To enjoy the wonders of this icy paradise in the company of a small and enthusiastic party is the perfect way to achieve the most from a visit to this extraordinary place. In between the landings and while at sea, you can pass the time on deck looking for wildlife, attend interactive workshop and discussions and participate in the citizen science programmes that collect data in support of scientists around the world.
Useful links & Travel Advice
Please find a selection of useful websites to refer to for information from the Foreign & Commonwealth Office, on visa requirements, NHS travel health advice and other useful travel tips.
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Aircraft & Explorer House
Antarctica21 use three similar aircraft for flight operations: the BAE 146-200, the AVRO RJ 85, and the AVRO RJ 100. These aircraft were manufactured in the United Kingdom by British Aerospace (which later became part of BAE Systems). They are high-wing aircraft with short runway requirements, which means they are particularly suited for this kind of destination. They are operated by Aerovías DAP, which have more than 25 years of experience flying in Patagonia and Antarctica.
Specifications
Model BAE 146-200, AVRO RJ 85, AVRO RJ 100
Capacity 75 passengers maximum
Engines 4 turbofans Honeywell ALF 502R-5
Length 93 ft. 8 in (28.55 m)
Cruise Speed 465 mph (750 km/h)
Wingspan 86 ft. 5 in (26.34 m)
Service Ceiling 31,200 ft. (9,500 m)
Explorers House - Antarctica21's Expedition Centre
An expedition to Antarctica is an experience like no other and success depends on preparation. Explorers House is an exclusive facility in Punta Arenas where the Antarctic21 team will help you prepare for your expedition. You can attend briefings, try on expedition gear, practice wearing a life jacket, and learn how to board a Zodiac so you will be ready and confident when you arrive in Antarctica. Explorers House also functions as Antarctica21’s own private club. It provides a modern environment where you can relax with a cup of coffee, review a wonderful collection of Antarctic books, and get to know your travel companions as excitement over the upcoming adventure builds.
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Expedition Travel & Contingency Plan
The Nature of Expedition Travel
This expedition is suitable for adventurous travellers who enjoy full mobility and reasonably good health. Expedition travel to Antarctica requires flexibility and adaptation to ever-changing circumstances. Every effort will be made to adhere to the planned programme. However, with this type of adventurous travel to Antarctica, changes to the itinerary may occur due to severe and changeable weather.
Contingency Plan
Antarctica21 has been organising Antarctic air-cruises since 2003. Over these years they have gained extensive experience in the delicate coordination of land, air and sea operations in the extreme Antarctic environment. While historically the majority of flights have operated on the scheduled day, in some instances weather conditions have required that adjustments to the departure time of Antarctic flights be made to avoid protracted delays. In the unlikely event that the flight to Antarctica cannot take place on the scheduled day due to unfavourable weather conditions, there is a Contingency Plan. The Contingency Plan is included in the cost of your expedition. The primary goal of the plan is to provide an engaging and comfortable travel experience whilst adapting to the weather. A change in the flight schedule can impact travel to Antarctica or return back to Punta Arenas, and the plan includes a range of activities determined by the circumstances. Additionally, the Contingency Plan offers you financial protection by providing a refund should weather conditions prevent us from reaching Antarctica.
The Details
In case the outbound flight to Antarctica is moved forward, in some cases, it may be necessary to move forward the Antarctic flight to the afternoon or evening of Day 4 of the itinerary. This will result in an early departure from Punta Arenas and early arrival in Antarctica. In case the outbound flight to Antarctica is delayed the group will remain in Punta Arenas while waiting for an improvement in the weather and for the opportunity to fly to Antarctica. If by 2 PM on Day 7 of the itinerary it is still impossible to depart for Antarctica, the trip will be interrupted and the cruise fare will be refunded. In case the return flight to Punta Arenas is moved forward in those cases when the forecast suggests the likelihood of unfavourable weather conditions in Antarctica persisting for several days, the flight back to Punta Arenas may be moved forward to the previous evening as a way to avoid a protracted delay in Antarctica. In case the return flight to Punta Arenas is delayed the group will remain in Antarctica and wait for the opportunity to fly to Punta Arenas.
Hebridean Sky with Antarctica21
For ‘Highlights of Antarctica’, Antarctica21 have chartered our very own MS Hebridean Sky and are making some suites available for our passengers. The all-suite MS Hebridean Sky can usually accommodate up to 118 passengers, however for their fly-cruise expeditions in Antarctica, Antarctica21 limit the number of guests on board to just 75 and configure the vessel differently to our usual deck plan. The vessel is one of the finest small ships in the world and benefits from unusually large suites, luxuriously appointed public areas and spacious outside decks.
The atmosphere on board is warm and convivial and more akin to a private yacht or country hotel in which you can learn more about the wonders of Antarctica in the company of like-minded people. There is a high ratio of crew to passengers and the friendly crew are mainly Filipino and Eastern European. After a day exploring ashore you will return to the comfort and peace of a well-run and exceedingly comfortable ship. The excellent and informative port briefings and lectures from the expedition staff, the convivial onboard atmosphere and of course good food, all contribute to make any voyage aboard this wonderful vessel a memorable and joyful experience.
Please note that these details pertaining to the MS Hebridean Sky are only applicable for the ‘Highlights of Antarctica’ expedition.
Itinerary
Day 1 London to Santiago, Chile.
Fly by scheduled indirect flight.
Day 2 Santiago.
Arrive this morning and transfer to our hotel for an overnight stay. Spend the afternoon and evening at leisure to relax and enjoy the hotel facilities or explore the city independently.
Day 3 Santiago to Punta Arenas.
After breakfast in the hotel we transfer to the airport for our scheduled flight to Punta Arenas. Arrive this afternoon and transfer to our hotel for a two night stay. The remainder of the day is under your own arrangements. (B)
Day 4 Punta Arenas.
After a leisurely morning, we will make our way to the Explorers House to meet our fellow travellers and attend a mandatory briefing which will provide important information about our air-cruise and reviews the essential guidelines for Antarctic visitors. Later, we will enjoy our welcome dinner and meet our fellow adventurers while enjoying a typical regional menu. (B, D)
Day 5 Punta Arenas to King George Island, Antarctica.
Our Antarctic adventure begins this morning with a two-hour flight from Punta Arenas to King George Island, in the South Shetland Islands. Upon exiting the plane, there will be a two kilometre walk (1.25-mile) passing Chile’s Frei Station and Russia’s Bellingshausen Station to reach the shore and board a Zodiac which will take you to the MS Hebridean Sky. Embark and enjoy drinks and dinner and drinks on board. (B, D)
Days 6 to 9 Antarctica.
Cruise between the South Shetland Islands and the western coast of the Antarctic Peninsula, sailing along ice-filled fjords and among spectacular icebergs, while enjoying the company of seabirds, penguins, seals and whales. Each day, there will be the opportunity to disembark by Zodiac and explore the landscape together with expert polar guides. Whilst on board you can attend an engaging programme of educational presentations and enjoy spectacular views from the lounge while sharing your daily adventures with fellow guests. No two journeys in Antarctica are the same and flexibility is the key to success in Antarctica. The onboard expedition team plans the voyage route to take advantage of the ever-changing opportunities provided by nature, crafting a unique and extraordinary experience every time. While the exact itinerary changes with each expedition, you will explore several spots that offer the best possible overview of the varied Antarctic environment. Your voyage may include visits to sites in the South Shetland Islands, the Antarctic Sound, the Garlache Strait and the Penola Strait. (B, L, D)
Day 10 King George Island to Punta Arenas, Chile.
Return to King George Island and bid farewell to Antarctica before boarding the flight back to Punta Arenas. Upon arrival, transfer to your hotel for an overnight stay. (B)
Day 11 Punta Arenas to Santiago.
Transfer to the airport for our scheduled flight to Santiago. On arrival we transfer to our hotel for an overnight stay. (B)
Day 12 Santiago to London.
Return to the airport this morning for our scheduled flight to London. (B)
Day 13 London.
Arrive this morning.
Dates and Prices
LAUNCH OFFER – SAVE £1000 PERSON FOR A LIMITED TIME ONLY
Prices per person based on double occupancy
| 28 January to 9 February 2022 | ||
|---|---|---|
| Category | Brochure Price | Special Offer Price |
| Triple Suite | £12995 | £11995 |
| Window Suite | £14995 | £13995 |
| Promenade Suite | £15695 | £14695 |
| Deluxe Suite | £15995 | £14995 |
| Veranda Suite | £16995 | £15995 |
| Penthouse Suite | £19295 | £18295 |
| Owners Suite | £20995 | £19995 |
| Window Suite for sole use | £23995 | £22995 |
| Promenade Suite for sole use | £24595 | £23595 |
Tour Reference Code: SCHKII28122
Please note the price shown for Triple Suite is per person based on triple occupancy
Price Includes: Economy class scheduled international air travel • Specially chartered flights between Punta Arenas and King George Island • Two nights hotel accommodation in Santiago & three nights hotel accommodation in Punta Arenas • Meals as indicated (B - Breakfast, L - Lunch, D - Dinner) • Five nights aboard the MS Hebridean Sky on a full board basis • House wine, beer and soft drinks with lunch and dinner on board • Onboard expedition team • Noble Caledonia Tour Manager • Dinner on day 4 • Gratuities • Transfers • Airport taxes • Port taxes • Use of waterproof boots on board the MS Hebridean Sky.
Not Included: Travel insurance.
NB: Please note that a deposit payment of £2500 per person is required for this tour.
Preferred seating on the Antarctic Flight
For an extra level of comfort, you can purchase Preferred Seats on your Antarctic flight. This option offers you a guaranteed aisle or window seat at the front of the aircraft. It also offers you priority boarding in Punta Arenas and an amenities kit. Please note that due to the nature of the operation in Antarctica, priority boarding is not available on the return flight.
Capacity is limited to rows 2, 3, 4 and 5 of the aircraft.
Price per person: £400
Sea Kayaking in Antarctica
Experience Antarctica from the unique vantage point of a sea kayak. The majestic landscape, the icebergs, the wildlife - everything looks different as you paddle quietly through the icy waters. The sea kayaking programme is an optional small-group experience limited to a maximum of 10 participants per cruise. The group enjoys multiple excursions throughout the voyage, under the guidance and leadership of an experienced Kayak Master. Every day in Antarctica, your Kayak Master will work with the expedition team to look for the best kayaking opportunities based on suitable and safe weather conditions. The group will be supported by a dedicated safety Zodiac. Each kayaking excursion will be approximately one and a half hours. The Kayak Master will strive to offer some time at the landing site so you can also explore on land. To take part in the kayaking programme you must have previous experience and must know how to swim. Space is limited. We recommend booking the Sea Kayaking programme upon reservation of your air-cruise.
Price per person: £725
Note: Sea Kayaking is offered as a full programme of excursions delivered throughout the expedition to the same group of participants. It is not possible to join individual, one-off kayaking excursions.
Hiking and Snowshoeing in Antarctica
See more of the Antarctic landscape with the Hiking & Snowshoeing programme. Excursion locations are selected for their scenic appeal and will provide unique vantage points for your photographs. The Hiking & Snowshoeing programme is an optional small-group experience that is offered on board as a one-off excursion. Groups are limited to 12 participants and are led by a Hiking and Snowshoeing Guide. Every day you are in Antarctica your Hiking and Snowshoeing Guide will work with the Expedition Leader to look for the best hiking or snowshoeing opportunities within the trip’s schedule, based on suitable and safe weather conditions. Each excursion will be approximately one and a half hours in duration. Depending on the conditions of the terrain, some excursions may require the use of snowshoes and/or trekking poles, which are provided. Participants can select the excursions they want to join, paying a per-excursion fee. The activity can be booked and paid on board the ship. To take part in the Hiking & Snowshoeing program you do not need previous experience. However, your level of physical fitness should be good.
Hebridean Sky with Antarctica21
For ‘Highlights of Antarctica’, Antarctica21 have chartered our very own MS Hebridean Sky and are making some suites available for our passengers. The all-suite MS Hebridean Sky can usually accommodate up to 118 passengers, however for their fly-cruise expeditions in Antarctica, Antarctica21 limit the number of guests on board to just 75 and configure the vessel differently to our usual deck plan. The vessel is one of the finest small ships in the world and benefits from unusually large suites, luxuriously appointed public areas and spacious outside decks.
The atmosphere on board is warm and convivial and more akin to a private yacht or country hotel in which you can learn more about the wonders of Antarctica in the company of like-minded people. There is a high ratio of crew to passengers and the friendly crew are mainly Filipino and Eastern European. After a day exploring ashore you will return to the comfort and peace of a well-run and exceedingly comfortable ship. The excellent and informative port briefings and lectures from the expedition staff, the convivial onboard atmosphere and of course good food, all contribute to make any voyage aboard this wonderful vessel a memorable and joyful experience.
Please note that these details pertaining to the MS Hebridean Sky are only applicable for the ‘Highlights of Antarctica’ expedition.
Aircraft & Explorer House
Antarctica21 use three similar aircraft for flight operations: the BAE 146-200, the AVRO RJ 85, and the AVRO RJ 100. These aircraft were manufactured in the United Kingdom by British Aerospace (which later became part of BAE Systems). They are high-wing aircraft with short runway requirements, which means they are particularly suited for this kind of destination. They are operated by Aerovías DAP, which have more than 25 years of experience flying in Patagonia and Antarctica.
Specifications
Model BAE 146-200, AVRO RJ 85, AVRO RJ 100
Capacity 75 passengers maximum
Engines 4 turbofans Honeywell ALF 502R-5
Length 93 ft. 8 in (28.55 m)
Cruise Speed 465 mph (750 km/h)
Wingspan 86 ft. 5 in (26.34 m)
Service Ceiling 31,200 ft. (9,500 m)
Explorers House - Antarctica21's Expedition Centre
An expedition to Antarctica is an experience like no other and success depends on preparation. Explorers House is an exclusive facility in Punta Arenas where the Antarctic21 team will help you prepare for your expedition. You can attend briefings, try on expedition gear, practice wearing a life jacket, and learn how to board a Zodiac so you will be ready and confident when you arrive in Antarctica. Explorers House also functions as Antarctica21’s own private club. It provides a modern environment where you can relax with a cup of coffee, review a wonderful collection of Antarctic books, and get to know your travel companions as excitement over the upcoming adventure builds.
.
Expedition Travel & Contingency Plan
The Nature of Expedition Travel
This expedition is suitable for adventurous travellers who enjoy full mobility and reasonably good health. Expedition travel to Antarctica requires flexibility and adaptation to ever-changing circumstances. Every effort will be made to adhere to the planned programme. However, with this type of adventurous travel to Antarctica, changes to the itinerary may occur due to severe and changeable weather.
Contingency Plan
Antarctica21 has been organising Antarctic air-cruises since 2003. Over these years they have gained extensive experience in the delicate coordination of land, air and sea operations in the extreme Antarctic environment. While historically the majority of flights have operated on the scheduled day, in some instances weather conditions have required that adjustments to the departure time of Antarctic flights be made to avoid protracted delays. In the unlikely event that the flight to Antarctica cannot take place on the scheduled day due to unfavourable weather conditions, there is a Contingency Plan. The Contingency Plan is included in the cost of your expedition. The primary goal of the plan is to provide an engaging and comfortable travel experience whilst adapting to the weather. A change in the flight schedule can impact travel to Antarctica or return back to Punta Arenas, and the plan includes a range of activities determined by the circumstances. Additionally, the Contingency Plan offers you financial protection by providing a refund should weather conditions prevent us from reaching Antarctica.
The Details
In case the outbound flight to Antarctica is moved forward, in some cases, it may be necessary to move forward the Antarctic flight to the afternoon or evening of Day 4 of the itinerary. This will result in an early departure from Punta Arenas and early arrival in Antarctica. In case the outbound flight to Antarctica is delayed the group will remain in Punta Arenas while waiting for an improvement in the weather and for the opportunity to fly to Antarctica. If by 2 PM on Day 7 of the itinerary it is still impossible to depart for Antarctica, the trip will be interrupted and the cruise fare will be refunded. In case the return flight to Punta Arenas is moved forward in those cases when the forecast suggests the likelihood of unfavourable weather conditions in Antarctica persisting for several days, the flight back to Punta Arenas may be moved forward to the previous evening as a way to avoid a protracted delay in Antarctica. In case the return flight to Punta Arenas is delayed the group will remain in Antarctica and wait for the opportunity to fly to Punta Arenas.
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Book with Confidence
Speak to one of our advisors on 020 7752 0000