Antarctica XXI (Hebridean Sky)
8 Day cruise
This itinerary to Antarctica is perfect for those who do not wish to sail the Drake Passage. For some, sailing these typically rough seas is all part of the adventure of travelling to the continent of Antarctica, but for others, who may not have their sea legs, or simply have less time, this is a spectacular way to arrive at the end of the world.
You’ll board the Hebridean Sky, a small, all-suite expedition vessel. Built in 1992, refurbished in 2005 and again in 2016; the ship underwent an extensive, multimillion-dollar renovation that transformed her into one of the finest small-ships in the world.
Hebridean Sky offers an exclusive base for adventurous exploration in Antarctica. Public areas include “The Club” lounge, a Library, a presentation lounge with audio-visual facilities, a dining room, an outdoor cafe, a medical clinic, a wraparound deck, and an elevator serving all passenger decks. The ship has a fleet of 10 Zodiac boats.
The Hebridean Sky can accommodate 71 passengers. Each Suite features a sitting area, a private bathroom, a picture window, and twin beds that, on request, can be joined to form a queen-size bed. There are 8 different suite categories to choose from.
Tour highlights
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Incredible wildlife
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Experience Antarctica from a kayak (optional extra)
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Hike and snowshoe to locations for superb photographic opportunities (optional extra)
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Expert lecturers
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Be one of the select few seeing Antartica by air
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Dive (very quickly) into the Antarctic waters
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Fly the Drake Passage
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visit Chilean and Russian bases
Day 1
Arrive in Punta Arenas, Chile, before 2 PM where you are welcomed by ANTARCTICA XXI staff and transferred to your hotel. This afternoon, you’ll attend a mandatory briefing that provides important information about your voyage and reviews the essential guidelines for Antarctic visitors. This evening, gather for a welcome dinner and meet your fellow adventurers. If you want a more leisurely arrival, we recommend you arrive 1 day early to avoid any late flights or adverse weather. You don’t want to miss your trip of a lifetime!
Day 2
Your adventure begins with a 2hr flight from Punta Arenas to King George Island, located in the South Shetland Islands. As you depart the plane, you’ll breathe in your first Antarctic air. Explore Chile’s Frei Station and Russia’s Bellingshausen Station, before boarding a Zodiac to embark your expedition vessel.
Day 3 to 6
You’ll cruise between the South Shetland Islands and the western coast of the Antarctic Peninsula, where you will have the chance to see seabirds, whales, seals and penguins as you sail through the icy fjords and observe spectacular icebergs.
Every day, you’ll disembark by Zodiac and explore the landscape together with your expert polar guides.
On board the ship, attend an engaging program of lectures and presentations, and enjoy spectacular views from the lounge while sharing your daily adventures with fellow guests.
No journey is the same as flexibility is the key to success in Antarctica. The Expedition Team sets the voyage route to take advantage of the ever-changing opportunities provided by Nature, crafting a unique and extraordinary experience each 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 such as Paulet Island, Hope Bay, Port Lockroy, Petermann Island, Deception Island, Paradise Bay, the Lemaire Channel, or many other magnificent places.
Day 7
Head back to King George Island where you’ll bid farewell to Antarctica and board your flight back 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).
Tour details
Price from US$14,995 Per person based on twin share basis in a window suite
Price includes
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For Air-Cruises starting in Punta Arenas, group transfers airport/hotel on Day 1.
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For Air-Cruises starting in Punta Arenas, 1 overnight with breakfast in Punta Arenas at the Cabo de Hornos Hotel or similar, with a welcome dinner including drinks on Day 1.
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1 overnight with breakfast in Punta Arenas at the Cabo de Hornos Hotel or similar on the
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Day of the Scheduled Return Flight from Antarctica.
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Transfers airport/hotel on the Day of the Scheduled Return Flight from Antarctica, and transfers hotel/airport on last Day of the Air-Cruise Program.
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Flight from Punta Arenas to Frei Station on King George Island and/or vice versa as indicated in the program corresponding to each voyage.
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Ship cruise along the Antarctic Peninsula as indicated in the program corresponding to each voyage.
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Daily buffet breakfast and lunch on board ship offering a wide choice of dishes.
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Daily served dinner on board ship offering a choice of three main courses.
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Wine, beer, juice, and soft drinks served with lunch and dinner on board ship. Coffee, tea, chocolate, cappuccino, water and snacks on board ship throughout the expedition.
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All guided shore excursions.
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Lectures and entertainment on board. Comprehensive pre- and post-voyage information material.
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Loan of waterproof boots for landing in Antarctica.
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Contingency Plan as described in conditions at time of reservation enquiry.
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IAATO Passenger fee
Additional Extra's
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Sea Kayaking in Antarctica
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Hiking and snowshoeing in Antarctica
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Preferred seating on the Antarctic flight
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Extra night(s) in Punta Arenas from
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Expedition Jacket
Not included
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Accommodation, meals, excursions and transfers other than those included in the itinerary and the Contingency Plan corresponding to each voyage. Specifically, dinner in Punta Arenas upon return from Antarctica is not included.
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Beverages purchased at the ship’s bar.
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Personal travel insurance.
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Extra expenses (communication, laundry, souvenirs, etc.).
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Gratuities.
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Visas for Chile and/or Argentina if applicable
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International Airfares
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Immunisations