Antarctica Family Vacation: A Trip to Remember!

Author: Suman Pathak on Dec 16,2018

Take your family on an unforgettable adventure to the bottom of the world–Antarctica! As you traverse the Weddell Sea and pass through the iceberg channels, you will discover the beauty of the seventh continent and create lasting memories. You will hear the Emperor penguins’ call and the historical tales of shipwrecks. Watch for whales while passing through the Drake Passage; seeing them slap their tails against the surface of the water is incredible. Note that the recommended age for Antarctica trips is 8-years-old. While expedition vessels do not have play areas or other facilities made just for kids, many have twin beds and are happy to have them on board to join in the adventure.

 

Trip at a Glance

 

Day 1: Arrive Punta Arenas – Welcome!

Day 2: Fly to King George Island

Days 3 - 9: Weddell Sea & the Antarctic Peninsula

Days 10 - 11: Drake Passage - Argentina

Day 12: Ushuaia – Disembark 

 

Trip Highlights

 

1. The icy landscape is alive with an array of polar wildlife who call Antarctica home.

2. The Weddell Sea is a powerful sight with its massive tabular icebergs.

3. With its position close to the South Pole, the sun never dips in Antarctica!

4. With snow-bleached hills, sporadic rocky terrain, and frozen shores, the Elephant Island adds to the perfectly superb image of Antarctica. Enjoy its incredible view!

Tour Price

Our private tours typically range from $500 - $1000 per person/per night depending on chosen hotels and room categories, vehicles used, types of tours, flight cost, time of year and other factors. Make an inquiry for a customized trip quote.

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Detailed Itinerary

Day 1: Punta Arenas – Welcome!


A representative will greet you upon your arrival in Punta Arenas, for the transfer to your hotel.
Punta Arenas overlooks the Straits of Magellan, along a legendary trade route. Its key position in history is clear from the rich mix of global cultures living in the city. Today it receives visitors from around the world, eager to explore Antarctica.
This evening, attend a briefing to meet some of the crew and your fellow passengers and prepare for your exciting voyage.

Day 2: Fly to King George Island

 

You will be transferred to the airport this morning for the flight to King George Island, Antarctica, one of the world’s most remote destinations.  The expedition team will meet you on arrival and help you into Zodiacs (small inflatable boats) so you can board the vessel. Attend a safety briefing and setting into your cabin.

 

Days 3-9: Weddell Sea & the Antarctic Peninsula

 

When your ship begins to pass floating landmasses and tabular icebergs, you will know you are navigating through the Weddell Sea. These icebergs have formed from the breakdown of the Filchner and Larsen ice shelves.

As the sun never sets, you will have 18 - 24 hours of daylight each day to explore. The expedition team will take into account the weather, ice conditions and wildlife activity to make sure you get the most out of each day.

On most days, you will board Zodiacs for an excursion or two. While in the water, look out for whales, seals, and penguins at play. On land, you can hunt for fossils and visit penguin rookeries. Explore the South Shetland Islands archipelago, which is considered the safest harbor in Antarctica. Deception Island has an element of risk with the possibilities of volcanic eruptions, so the crew will assess if it is safe to visit. You may also pass by Spanish and Argentinian research bases.

 

The crew will share with you the tale of Sir Ernest Shackleton and his tumultuous journey to Antarctica over 100 years ago. Children will be fascinated by this true-life adventure story. 

 

Days 10 - 11: Drake Passage - Argentina

 

Now it is time to return to South America via the legendary Drake Passage. On board, the crew will keep you entertained with films and talks to learn even more about this magical place. The whole family should keep watch for whales spouting in the distance and friendly pods of dolphins.

 

Day 12: Ushuaia – Disembark

 

You and your family will be warmly greeted in Ushuaia and transferred to the Malvinas Argentinas International Airport, from where you will take your international departure flight. 

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