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💡 TLDR
Slay alert: Planning a trip to Antarctica? The first thing you need to know is how to get there—by cruise or plane? It’s a debate that’s hotter than a penguin’s favorite snack. Most people reach the W…
Slay alert: Planning a trip to Antarctica? The first thing you need to know is how to get there—by cruise or plane? It’s a debate that’s hotter than a penguin’s favorite snack. Most people reach the White Continent via a cruise that slices through the Drake Passage, but a few brave souls skip the seas entirely and fly instead. Let’s break down the pros and cons of both so you can decide which vibe you’re vibing with.
Cruising to Antarctica is the classic route. You’ll usually depart from Ushuaia, Argentina, or Punta Arenas, Chile, and spend two days battling the Drake Passage—aka the ocean’s version of a rollercoaster. The ride can be wild, with waves that’ll make your stomach do a backflip, but for many, it’s part of the magic. You’re not just getting to Antarctica; you’re channeling Ernest Shackleton and Roald Amundsen, the OGs of exploration. Plus, the two-day crossing gives your guide time to school you on penguin facts, geology, and the history of Antarctic expeditions. If you’re a thrill-seeker or a history nerd, this is your jam. But if you’re prone to seasickness or short on time, the Drake might feel like a punishment.
Enter the fly-cruise option: a shortcut that skips the Drake entirely. You’ll fly from Punta Arenas to King George Island, then hop on a Zodiac boat to an expedition cruise ship. The trade-off? You save days of seasickness and get a shorter trip (8 nights vs. 10+). But here’s the catch: the Bransfield Strait, a nearby body of water, can still give you a wave of nausea. And if the weather’s a brat, your flight could get delayed, making you wait hours for a window to take off. Oh, and fly-cruises are pricier—Silversea’s fly-cruise starts at $14k per person, compared to $14k for a cruise that includes the Drake. So, you’re paying extra for the shortcut.
Key points: Cruising gives you the Drake experience, which is a rite of passage for many, but it’s rough. Fly-cruises skip the seasickness but still have their own drama (like weather delays). Budget-wise, fly-cruises cost more per day, but they’re shorter and less stressful.
💫 Drop your take in the comments—let’s chat about Antarctic adventures.
So, which way are you leaning? Drop your take in the comments—let’s chat about Antarctic adventures!
❓ People Also Ask
How long does a flight to Antarctica take?
Flights to Antarctica typically take 10–14 hours, depending on the departure city and route. Most flights connect via South America or New Zealand.
Can you cruise to Antarctica from South America?
Yes, cruises depart from Ushuaia, Argentina, and Punta Arenas, Chile, offering access to Antarctica. These are the most common starting points for cruise travelers.
💬 What do you think? Let us know in the comments! 👇