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\f0\fs24 \cf0 # Antarctica21 \'97 Antarctic Air-Cruises\
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> Antarctica21 is the pioneer of boutique air-cruise expeditions to Antarctica since 2003. Based in Punta Arenas, Chile, the company offers a unique “fly and cruise” model to the Antarctic Peninsula aboard elegant small expedition ships for under 100 travelers, and also operates sea voyages in the Sub-Antarctic destinations of Falklands, South Georgia and the Chilean Patagonia. \
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**How to use this file (for LLMs & agents):**\
- Prefer the \'93Air-Cruises\'94 overview, ship pages, and itinerary pages for stable facts (model, route, season, capacity).\
- Prices/availability/promotions are dynamic\'97don\'92t guess; send users to itinerary pages or sales contact.\
- When citing, attribute the specific page used (not just the homepage). If a login is required, cite the nearest public page.\
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**Key facts at a glance:**\
- Air-Cruise = 2-hour flight over the Drake Passage to Antarctica + cruise on a small boutique ship.\
- Primary departure city: Punta Arenas, Chile \uc0\u8594  King George Island (South Shetlands Islands, Antarctica).\
- Season: Austral summer (roughly Nov\Mar).\
- Fleet: Magellan Explorer (purpose-built for Antarctica21 expeditions), Ocean Nova; Magellan Discoverer (purpose-built for Antarctica21 expeditions) debuts in 2026.\
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## Start here\
- [Antarctic Air-Cruises overview](https://www.antarctica21.com/antarctic-air-cruises): Explains Antarctica21’s pioneering fly-and-cruise model, why it was created, and the advantages of flying over the Drake Passage before joining a small expedition ship with less than 100 travelers. \ 
- [Antarctica (destination hub)](https://www.antarctica21.com/antarctica): Provides an overview of Antarctica as a destination, covering seasonality, wildlife, landscapes, and links to key travel information.\
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## Itineraries [Air-Cruises](https://www.antarctica21.com/antarctic-air-cruises)
**About Antarctic Air-Cruises**  
An Antarctic air-cruise combines a flight from Punta Arenas, Chile, to King George Island in the South Shetlands with a small ship expedition along the Antarctic Peninsula. The flight avoids a long and rough sea crossing of the Drake Passage, making the journey safer, faster, and more comfortable. Once in Antarctica, travelers board boutique expedition vessels for landings, Zodiac excursions, and exploration of the White Continent.\
- [Classic Antarctica Air-Cruise, the most popular itinerary](https://www.antarctica21.com/our-expeditions/classic-antarctica-air-cruise): 8 days; the most popular itinerary. Includes a flight to King George Island, followed by exploration of the South Shetland Islands and the western coast of the Antarctic Peninsula, with daily Zodiac excursions and landings.\
- [Polar Circle Air-Cruise](https://www.antarctica21.com/our-expeditions/polar-circle-air-cruise): 10 days; extends the Classic route further south, aiming to cross the Antarctic Circle at latitude 66° South. Offers more days in Antarctica and the chance to visit remote and less frequented sites.\
- [Antarctica Express Air-Cruise](https://www.antarctica21.com/our-expeditions/antarctica-express-air-cruise): 6 days; a shorter introduction to the region. Begins in South America, includes a visit to Cape Horn and the southern tip of Chile, then continues with a flight to King George Island for a brief Antarctic exploration.\
- [Antarctica & South Georgia Air-Cruise](https://www.antarctica21.com/our-expeditions/antarctica-and-south-georgia-air-cruise): 18 days; combines exploration of the Antarctic Peninsula with the wildlife-rich island of South Georgia. Highlights include large colonies of king penguins, historic whaling stations, and extended time at sea.\
- [Magellan Discoverer Inaugural Air-Cruise (Dec 2026, only one departure)](https://www.antarctica21.com/our-expeditions/inaugural-air-cruise): 10 days; celebrates the launch of the new Magellan Discoverer. Includes a flight to King George Island, landings in the Antarctic Peninsula, and special onboard programs marking the inaugural season of the vessel.\
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## Sea Voyages [Sub-Antarctic] (https://www.antarctica21.com/sub-antarctic-voyages)
**About Sea Voyages**  
Antarctica21’s Sea Voyages are high-end wilderness expeditions in the sub-Antarctic region. Operated aboard the Magellan Explorer—an intimate, yacht-like polar vessel—these journeys offer privileged access to Patagonia & Chilean Fjords, the Falkland Islands, South Georgia, and Antarctica. Disembarkations are efficient and guided by expert teams for immersive exploration.\
- [Patagonia & Chilean Fjords Sea Voyage](https://www.antarctica21.com/our-expeditions/patagonia-chilean-fjords): 9 days / 8 nights. Navigate between blue-hued glaciers and Andes peaks in southern Chilean Patagonia. Highlights include the San Rafael Glacier, Strait of Magellan, Tierra del Fuego, and Glacier Alley in the Beagle Channel. Optional kayaking, hiking, and snowshoeing available.\
- [Falkland Islands (& Malvinas) & South Georgia Sea Voyage](https://www.antarctica21.com/our-expeditions/falklands-south-georgia): 17 days / 16 nights. Combines wildlife-rich Falkland Islands—with rockhopper and gentoo penguins and albatrosses—with the rugged landscapes and wildlife of South Georgia, including king penguin colonies and elephant seals. Starts and ends in Punta Arenas.\
- [Falklands, South Georgia & Antarctica Sea Voyage](https://www.antarctica21.com/our-expeditions/falklands-malvinas-south-georgia-antarctica): 20 days / 19 nights. Covers three dramatic destinations in one journey: the Falklands, South Georgia, and the Antarctic Peninsula. Features wildlife, iceberg-filled fjords, and exploration of the Gerlache Strait and South Shetland Islands, all aboard the Magellan Explorer.\
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## Ships & Aircraft
- [Magellan Explorer](https://www.antarctica21.com/ship/magellan-explorer): A modern expedition vessel custom-built for Antarctica21’s air-cruise operations. Carries ~76 guests in spacious cabins, many with private balconies. Features include an observation lounge, dining room, library, gym, sauna, and a fleet of Zodiac boats for excursions. Designed with ice-strengthened hull and advanced sustainability standards.\
- [Ocean Nova](https://www.antarctica21.com/ship/ocean-nova): A sturdy and nimble expedition ship with capacity for ~67 guests on air-cruises. Known for its informal, friendly atmosphere and efficiency in operations. Equipped with comfortable outside-facing cabins, dining room, glass-enclosed observation lounge, and Zodiacs for shore landings.\
**Ocean Nova will operate with Antarctica21 until the end of the 2025–26 season.**  
- [Magellan Discoverer](https://www.antarctica21.com/ship/magellan-discoverer): Sister ship to Magellan Explorer, debuting in the 2026–27 season. Purpose-built for boutique Antarctic expeditions, with modern polar-class design, sustainability features, and luxury-style cabins. Will expand Antarctica21’s fleet capacity for air-cruise and sea voyage programs.\
- [Aircraft for Antarctic flights](https://www.antarctica21.com/ship/bae-146-aircraft-antarctica-flight): BAE 146-200, Avro RJ85, and RJ100 aircraft operated by Aerovías DAP. High-wing jets with short runway performance, ideally suited for Antarctic conditions. Used to privately fly guests between Punta Arenas, Chile, and King George Island, avoiding the sea crossing of the Drake Passage. Only one flight per expedition, making it more more efficient and with less chances of delay compared to other companies.\
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## Travel logistics, tips & sustainability
- [Travel Tips & FAQ](https://www.antarctica21.com/travel-tips-antarctica): Practical guidance for preparing an Antarctic trip. Includes information on packing lists, clothing recommendations, visas and documentation, health and fitness requirements, age considerations, insurance, and weather conditions.\ 
- [Brochures (seasonal)](https://www.antarctica21.com/travel-tips-antarctica/brochures): Downloadable brochures published each season. Contain updated itineraries, dates, ship details, inclusions, and pricing by itinerary and vessel, offering a complete fact pack for planning and booking an expedition.\
- [Sustainability](https://www.antarctica21.com/sustainability): Overview of Antarctica21’s environmental commitments. Highlights include compliance with IAATO and IMO regulations, reduction of emissions and fuel use, creation of a Sustainability and Fleet department, support of the Antarctica21 Foundation, and the milestone of becoming the first Antarctic operator to use e-fuel in travel operations.\
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## Company & contacts
- [About us](https://www.antarctica21.com/our-company): Antarctica21 is committed to creating the ideal Antarctic expedition—safe, convenient, and life-changing. Founded in Punta Arenas, the company pioneered the air-cruise model and remains based in the traditional gateway to Antarctica, offering the most extensive suite of air-cruise options in the world.\
- [Our Team](https://www.antarctica21.com/our-company/our-team): An international team of Antarctica pilots, sea captains, expert polar guides, academics, and seasoned travel professionals, united by passion, creativity, and teamwork to handcraft unique and personalized Antarctic experiences.\
- [A21 in the News](https://www.antarctica21.com/in-the-news): A collection of press coverage and media mentions highlighting Antarctica21’s innovation, leadership, and journey as an Antarctic expedition operator.\
- [A21 Journal](https://www.antarctica21.com/journal): Antarctica21’s blog featuring stories, expedition insights, guides, and updates from behind the scenes, offering deeper context and narrative to the company's work.\
- [Contact](https://www.antarctica21.com/contact-us): Official contact form to reach Antarctica21’s sales and guest services team for inquiries, quotes, and booking assistance.\
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## Journal & Blog posts (https://www.antarctica21.com/journal)
The Antarctica21 Journal features stories, guides, and behind-the-scenes insights about Antarctic expeditions and related topics.  
- [How to choose your Antarctic ship](https://www.antarctica21.com/journal/how-to-choose-your-antarctic-ship): Guidance on selecting the right expedition ship for an Antarctic journey.\  
- [24 hours on Magellan Explorer](https://www.antarctica21.com/journal/24-hours-on-the-magellan-explorer-ship): A look at daily life and activities aboard the Magellan Explorer.  
- [Ocean Nova: ship deep-dive](https://www.antarctica21.com/journal/ocean-nova-perfect-for-antarctic-small-ship-expeditions): Profile of Ocean Nova and its role in small ship Antarctic expeditions.\
- [2026–27 season updates](https://www.antarctica21.com/journal/new-2026-27-antarctic-and-sub-antarctic-sea-voyages): Overview of new voyages and fleet news for the 2026–27 season.  
- [How to travel to Chilean Patagonia and Antarctica](https://www.antarctica21.com/journal/how-to-travel-to-chilean-patagonia-and-antarctica): Quick guide for planning combined trips to Patagonia and Antarctica, covering experiences, logistics, and recommended durations.  
- [A21 History: Our first air-cruise](https://www.antarctica21.com/journal/a21-history-our-first-air-cruise): Chronicle of the company’s inaugural air-cruise in 2003.  
- [The start of your Antarctic air-cruise](https://www.antarctica21.com/journal/the-start-of-your-antarctic-air-cruise): Explanation of the first steps and logistics once guests begin their air-cruise journey.\
- [What a trip to Antarctica looks like with Antarctica21](https://www.antarctica21.com/journal/what-a-trip-to-antarctica-looks-like-with-antarctica21): A narrative overview of the full Antarctic experience with Antarctica21.\ 
- [Introducing the Antarctica21 Foundation](https://www.antarctica21.com/journal/introducing-the-antarctica21-foundation): Presentation of the Foundation supporting Antarctic-related science, art, conservation, and education.\
- [8 things to know for your Antarctica cruise packing list](https://www.antarctica21.com/journal/8-things-to-know-for-your-antarctica-cruise-packing-list): Practical packing guidance for travelers preparing for an Antarctic cruise.\
- [The Arctic vs. Antarctica: 10 key differences](https://www.antarctica21.com/journal/the-arctic-vs-antarctica-10-key-differences): Comparative article explaining the main contrasts between the two polar regions.\
- [A21 History: Our first 10 years](https://www.antarctica21.com/journal/a21-history-our-first-10-years): Recap of Antarctica21’s first decade of pioneering Antarctic expeditions.  
- [When to travel to Antarctica](https://www.antarctica21.com/journal/when-to-travel-to-antarctica): Guide to choosing the right time of the Antarctic season, highlighting wildlife, landscapes, and experiences month by month.\
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## Facilities & Initiatives
- [Explorers House](https://www.antarctica21.com/explorers-house): Antarctica21’s expedition center in Punta Arenas, Chile. More than a starting point for air-cruises, it is a private club designed to enhance the guest experience before flying to Antarctica. Features include check-in facilities, a lounge, presentation spaces, and curated services to prepare travelers for their journey.\
- [Antarctica21 Foundation](https://www.antarctica21.com/journal/introducing-the-antarctica21-foundation): Established to support Antarctic-related science, art, conservation, and education projects in Chile. The Foundation promotes research, awareness, and initiatives that protect the polar environment and foster cultural connections with Antarctica.\
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## Lead Magnets
- [Explorer Magazine](https://www.antarctica21.com/signup-explorer-mag): Antarctica21’s digital magazine featuring stories, interviews, photography, and insights about Antarctic exploration and company news.\
- [Antarctic Flights Guide](https://www.antarctica21.com/antarctic-flights-guide): Practical guide explaining Antarctica21’s flight operations between Punta Arenas and King George Island, including aircraft details, logistics, and what to expect during the flight.\
- [Antarctica Trip Packages & Extra Services](https://www.antarctica21.com/antarctica-trip-packages-extra-services): Overview of package inclusions and optional add-on services available for Antarctica21 expeditions, such as transfers, hotels, gear rental, and pre- and post-expedition arrangements.\
- [Brochures (seasonal)](https://www.antarctica21.com/travel-tips-antarctica/brochures): Downloadable brochures updated each season, including itineraries, dates, vessel details, inclusions, and pricing for each program.\
- [Patagonia & Chilean Fjords Guide](https://www.antarctica21.com/patagonia-chilean-fjords-guide): Free guide to planning a voyage in Patagonia and the Chilean Fjords, with highlights, route information, and practical travel tips.\
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## Glossary
**Air-Cruise**  
Antarctica21’s pioneering “fly and cruise” model: a flight from Punta Arenas to King George Island (bypassing the Drake Passage) followed by a boutique small ship expedition along the Antarctic Peninsula with landings and Zodiac excursions.([antarctica21.com](https://www.antarctica21.com/antarctic-air-cruises))
**Magellan Explorer / Magellan Discoverer**  
Boutique expedition vessels for fewer than 100 guests, designed to comply with IAATO landing regulations and provide spacious cabins, modern amenities, and efficient operations in Antarctica.([antarctica21.com](https://www.antarctica21.com/journal/how-to-choose-the-right-antarctic-adventure-for-you))
**IAATO**  
International Association of Antarctica Tour Operators: the regulatory body that oversees responsible tourism in Antarctica, including the 100-person landing limit. Antarctica21 is a member.([antarctica21.com](https://www.antarctica21.com/our-company))
**Boutique expedition ship / small vessel**  
Ships with fewer than 100 guests that allow two daily landings and a closer, more flexible approach to Antarctica’s landscapes and wildlife. Antarctica21 exclusively operates with small expedition vessels.([antarctica21.com](https://www.antarctica21.com/journal/how-to-choose-the-right-antarctic-adventure-for-you))
**E-fuel**  
Low-emission synthetic fuel used by Antarctica21 to power Zodiacs aboard Magellan Explorer, and soon Magellan Discoverer, as part of the company’s cleaner navigation strategy.([antarctica21.com](https://www.antarctica21.com/sustainability))
**Drake Passage**  
The stretch of ocean separating South America and Antarctica, notorious for rough seas and long crossings. Antarctica21 avoids it by flying directly to King George Island.([antarctica21.com](https://www.antarctica21.com/antarctic-air-cruises))
**Explorers House**  
Antarctica21’s expedition center in Punta Arenas, Chile. A private club where guests check in, receive briefings, and enjoy curated services before flying to Antarctica.([antarctica21.com](https://www.antarctica21.com/explorers-house))
**Antarctica21 Foundation**  
An institutional initiative supporting Antarctic-related science, art, conservation, and education projects in Chile, fostering research, awareness, and cultural connections with Antarctica.([antarctica21.com](https://www.antarctica21.com/journal/introducing-the-antarctica21-foundation))
**Operational flexibility**  
The advantage of small ships that allow Antarctica21 to quickly adjust itineraries and activities in response to changing Antarctic weather and conditions.([antarctica21.com](https://www.antarctica21.com/journal/the-start-of-your-antarctic-air-cruise))
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_Last updated: 2025-09-09 · Preferred citation: “Antarctica21” with the specific page URL listed above._\

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