Fly the Drake: 7-Night Aurora Antarctic Peninsula Voyage

Antarctic Peninsula: Fly the Drake is Aurora Expeditions’ quickest way to the White Continent. The 7-night trip begins in Punta Arenas, Chile, on January 10, 2028, flies you over the Drake Passage to King George Island to meet Douglas Mawson, and returns the same way on January 17. It suits travelers with limited time, those worried about seasickness, and anyone who’d rather spend their days in Antarctica than getting there.

Punta Arenas sits on the Strait of Magellan and makes a pleasant base for a night or two before flying south. King George Island, in the South Shetland Islands, hosts several international research stations and has the airstrip that makes this fly-cruise possible. From there, the ship heads out for four days along the Antarctic Peninsula.

Those four days are Captain’s Choice, with the expedition team watching ice and weather to choose landings and Zodiac routes. January is midsummer in Antarctica: penguin chicks are hatching and growing, days are long, and whales are increasingly active. Typical experiences include landings near gentoo colonies, Zodiac cruising among icebergs and, conditions permitting, a chance to step onto the Antarctic continent itself.

Because the flights depend on weather at King George Island, departures in either direction can be delayed. We’ll walk you through how Aurora manages that and why a buffer night in Punta Arenas is smart. Douglas Mawson is a small, purpose-built expedition ship, and Aurora is known for its expert guides, Zodiac landings and citizen science.

Fly-cruise cabins tend to go quickly for midsummer dates, and the number of seats on each flight is limited. Let us know when you’d like to travel and your preferred cabin, and we’ll check availability and current fares.

Frequently Asked Questions

What does Fly the Drake mean on an Aurora Antarctica cruise?
It means you fly between Punta Arenas and King George Island instead of sailing the Drake Passage, saving roughly two days at sea each way. Flights depend on weather and can be delayed.

Is January a good month to visit Antarctica?
January is peak summer, with long daylight, milder temperatures and busy penguin colonies. It’s one of the most popular times to go.

Do I need a visa for Chile for an Antarctica fly-cruise?
You’ll need a valid passport to enter Chile, and visa requirements depend on your citizenship. We’ll confirm the current entry rules when you book.