Day by Day | Ships | Dates | Extension | Contact

Antarctic Summer Micro Fly Cruise - Sail One Way

Antarctic Peninsula 69°30’S, 65°00’W
Micro Cruise

Antarctic Summer Micro Fly Cruise — Sail One Way

Rates from
£11,995 €12,995 US$14,495 CA$19,995 AU$21,995 pp
Duration
9 days

Dates
Jan — Dec
Guests

Fly over and sail across the legendary Drake Passage to Antarctica’s summer wilderness in full bloom, where the continent comes alive with vibrant wildlife and the beauty of the polar frontier.

On this unique expedition, you’ll have the freedom to experience Antarctica your way—sail south to the white continent and return by air to Puerto Natales, or fly in and sail back. Either way, you’ll gain more time to explore while still crossing the legendary Drake Passage once, as wandering albatrosses soar overhead.

As you reach the peninsula, Antarctica bursts with life and light. Penguin colonies bustle with parents feeding their young chicks, seals  rest on ice floes, and whales breach in the krill-rich waters.

Endless hours of ethereal light illuminate sculpted icebergs, snowy peaks, and glassy bays—an epic stage for one of the greatest adventures on Earth.

Experience summer in Antarctica—when penguin chicks hatch and icebergs catch the sun.

Whether you’re a photographer inspired by the beauty of nature in remote places, a wildlife enthusiast, an aficionado of polar history, or an avid birdwatcher, this expedition has been thoughtfully tailored with you in mind. 

Our journey could include visits to iconic locations such as the South Shetland Islands, with the aim of reaching Deception Island, home to fur seals and chinstrap penguins. 

We’ll sail as far south as ice conditions allow, navigating narrow channels such as the Gerlache Straits, the Neumayer Channel and the Lemaire Channel to reach wildlife-rich sites and incomparable scenery like Paradise Bay and Cuverville Island—where gentoo penguins and Antarctic shags nest. 

Should conditions open to the east, we may venture into the remote Antarctic Sound and Weddell Sea—known for dramatic icescapes, rare sightings of Emperor penguins, and exceptional photographic moments.

With flexibility, freedom, and just 44 guests, you’ll venture where larger ships can’t. No queues, no crowds, no rigid itinerary. 

In this frozen, awakening world, nature leads—and we follow, quietly and respectfully.

Expedition highlights

  • Exclusive Antarctica Fly-Cruise via Puerto Natales—begin or end in Puerto Natales, Chile, the gateway to Torres del Paine. Or in Ushuaia, Argentina, the world’s southernmost city, on the stunning edge of Tierra del Fuego. Both offer the perfect prelude or finale to your adventure. You’ll fly one way and experience the legendary Drake Passage once.

  • Summer magic—experience Antarctica when the ice still holds, and life bursts into motion.

  • See penguin rookeries in full swing—gentoo, chinstrap, and Adélie chicks hatch and colonies come alive with activity.

  • See the first whales—humpbacks, minkes, seis, and orcas—drawn by the season’s first blooms of krill.

  • Explore iconic Antarctic locations—see sites such as Deception Island, Cuverville Island, Paradise Bay, and the Gerlache Strait — made accessible by our ice-strengthened ship.

  • Exceptional photographic opportunities—capture stunning wildlife encounters, dramatic icescapes, and the unique Antarctic light.

  • Expert-led exploration—join specialist lectures and excursions led by our experienced expedition guides, deepening your connection to this unique environment.

The Expedition Micro Cruise concept

couple enjoying group experience Secret Atlas
guides teaching photography in the field
Exiting zodiac cruises
Group of people exploring ice in Svalbard with Secret Atlas
Hot tub experiences onboard with Secret Atlas
Rocks of the Half Moon Island an Antarctic island Shutterstock Secret Atlas

“Take it all in. This is the last great wilderness. This is what the world looked like before humans.”

— George Llano, Polar Explorer and Botanist

Stories from the Ice

Every expedition leaves a mark. Discover honest reflections, unforgettable moments, and personal highlights shared by guests who have explored the polar regions with us.

Sail over Drake Fly to Puerto Natales Secret Atlas

Experiences

We don’t follow a fixed itinerary

We prefer to embrace spontaneity and make the most of every opportunity nature presents to us. This is how we believe a true, authentic expedition should run…for those who don’t just travel—they explore. 

Our listed itineraries are for guidance only. The day-to-day activities may vary depending on the ice, the weather, and the wildlife. Landings are subject to site availability and permissions, and always in line with IAATO guidelines and Antarctic Treaty regulations. We pledge to follow the strictest environmental protocols. 

For even more flexibility, get in touch about making this a private yacht charter.

What your expedition could look like

Day 01
Strait Of Magellan Puerto Natales Patagonia Chile Shutterstock Secret Atlas

Arrive in Puerto Natales, Chile

Begin your Antarctic journey in the remote Puerto Natales, and experience Patagonia’s soul from the first moment. Our team will meet you at the airport upon your arrival and transfer you to your hotel.

Day 02
Regional airliner British Aerospace BAe 146 landing at Teniente R Marsh Airport King George Island Antarctica Alamy Secret Atlas

Fly from Puerto Natales to King George Island, Antarctica

After meeting our team in Puerto Natales, Chile, you’ll board a two-and-a-half-hour charter flight with your fellow guests across the Drake Passage to King George Island, your gateway to Antarctica.

Upon landing, a Zodiac transfer will take you to your ship, where your voyage into the white continent begins.

Day 03-06
Icebergs floating off the coast of Antarctica in the Gerlache Strait Shutterstock Secret Atlas

Exploring Antarctica's raw and untouched beauty

We often sail into the heart of the Antarctic Peninsula through the scenic Gerlache Strait, flanked by jagged peaks. If ice conditions allow, we’ll venture into regions renowned for impressive tabular icebergs and dramatic landscapes.

Day 03-06
Female elephant seal with newborn pup on beach shingle at King Haakon Bay South Georgia Island Shutterstock Secret Atlas

Into Antarctica’s hidden places

Prepare to enjoy a Zodiac cruise through sapphire-blue iceberg-filled coves and serene reflective waters, as we are on the lookout for humpback whales, leopard seals, and calving glaciers. We’ll also hope to land on islands, where gentoo penguins nest among whalebone relics, and young fur seals frolic in shallow waters, while elephant seals will be hauled out on shore. 

Day 03-06
A waddle of Gentoo penguins on the ice in the daylight in Antarctica

Dramatic coastlines and penguin colonies

We plan to visit remote and rugged islands along the peninsula, where you’ll see dramatic volcanic cliffs, glacier-sculpted shorelines, and encounter large colonies of Adélie, chinstrap and gentoo penguins nesting side by side.

You’ll glide through the narrow and stunning channels often packed with glittering sea ice and steep mountains on both sides by still waters. 

Day 07-08
Sunsets Drake Crossing Antarctica 2024 Jean Pauldelaharpe Secret Atlas

At Sea – Drake Passage

As your voyage north unfolds, icebergs and the Antarctic continent fade on the horizon. While crossing the Drake Passage, albatrosses may glide above as you enjoy workshops, and expert-led lectures.

Day 09
Ushuaia aerial view. Ushuaia is the capital of Tierra del Fuego province in Argentina.

Disembarkation in Ushuaia

Sail through the Beagle Channel before concluding your journey with disembarkation in Ushuaia, Argentina.

Day 01
Catamaran boats in the Ushuaia harbor port. Ushuaia is the capital of Tierra del Fuego province in Argentina.

Embarkation in Ushuaia, Argentina 

Our expedition team will collect you from your hotel and transfer you to the ship. After transiting the Beagle Channel, you’ll begin your crossing of the Drake Passage. 

Day 02-03
A snowy or wandering albatross flies over the Drake passage near Antarctica

At Sea – Drake Passage

After leaving the Beagle Channel, you’ll cross the Drake Passage. During this time, you’ll enjoy expert-led lectures, workshops, and wildlife spotting from the deck, as wandering albatrosses and petrels glide above. By day three, you can expect your first sightings of icebergs and the Antarctic continent on the horizon.

Day 04-07
King Penguins Aptenodytes patagonicus at the beach Salisbury Plain South Georgia Antarctic Shutterstock Secret Atlas

Dramatic coastlines and penguin colonies

We plan to visit remote and rugged islands along the peninsula, where you’ll see dramatic volcanic cliffs, glacier-sculpted shorelines, and encounter large colonies of Adélie, chinstrap and gentoo penguins nesting side by side.

You’ll glide through the narrow and stunning channels often packed with glittering sea ice and steep mountains on both sides by still waters. 

Day 04-07
Leopard Seal and Emperor Penguins Antarctica Shutterstock Secret Atlas

Into Antarctica’s hidden places

Prepare to enjoy a Zodiac cruise through sapphire-blue iceberg-filled coves and serene reflective waters, as we are on the lookout for humpback whales, leopard seals, and calving glaciers. We’ll also hope to land on islands, where gentoo penguins nest among whalebone relics, and young fur seals frolic in shallow waters, while elephant seals will be hauled out on shore. 

Day 04-07
Ice Formation in Antarctica in the Gerlache Strait Shutterstock Secret Atlas

Exploring Antarctica's raw and untouched beauty

We often sail into the heart of the Antarctic Peninsula through the scenic Gerlache Strait, flanked by jagged peaks. If ice conditions allow, we’ll venture into regions renowned for impressive tabular icebergs and dramatic landscapes.

Day 08
A plane coming into land at Teniente Rodolfo Marsh Martin airport at Frei Station on King George Island South Shetland Islands Antarctica Alamy Secret Atlas

Fly back to Puerto Natales from King George Island, Antarctica

On the final day, we hope to disembark at King George Island and take a charter flight back to Puerto Natales. There, you’ll stay at our very comfortable lodge, where you can relax and reflect on your extraordinary Antarctic experiences.

Day 09
Exterior Weskar Lodge Photos Puerto Natales Secret Atlas

Enjoy your last day in Puerto Natales, Chile

For those continuing their adventure, there’s the opportunity to join our Torres del Paine extension package, where you may go horseback riding through the stunning Patagonian landscapes, take a scenic hike to Mirador Base Las Torres, visit Laguna Sofia, explore the Milodón Cave, or enjoy other carefully planned activities.

A plane coming into land at Teniente Rodolfo Marsh Martin airport at Frei Station on King George Island

Fly & Cruise

This convenient fly-and-cruise expedition cuts down time at sea with a private charter flight between Chile and Antarctica. 

Flying aboard a British Aerospace 146, you’ll enjoy sweeping views over South America and the Southern Ocean.

Flight departure times depend on the weather, with contingency plans in place

Flight time
Approx 2.5 hours
Plane
British Aerospace 146
Baggage
20kg checked luggage, 5kg carry-on

Antarctic Summer Micro Fly Cruise — Sail One Way

From £11,995 €12,995 US$14,495 CA$19,995 AU$21,995 pp
01 Jan — 09 Jan 2027 9 Days TBD 36 Guests SOLD OUT
09 Jan — 17 Jan 2027 9 Days TBD 36 Guests SOLD OUT
31 Dec — 08 Jan 2028 9 Days TBD 36 Guests SOLD OUT
08 Jan — 16 Jan 2028 9 Days TBD 36 Guests SOLD OUT

EXTENSION PACKAGE

Torres del Paine 3-Night Extension: Discover Patagonia’s Wonders

Extend your Antarctic adventure with a 3-night Torres del Paine Patagonia trip - Venture into Patagonia’s stunning UNESCO-listed Torres del Paine National Park, where you'll have the extraordinary opportunity to track pumas, watch guanacos graze, and witness Andean condors soar amid turquoise lakes, granite peaks, and glaciers
View Extension
Trekking in the south of Chile Tierra del Fuego Torres del Paine Nature in its purest state Shutterstock Secret Atlas

Why Secret Atlas?

Because we’re explorers, delivering expeditions for explorers like you.

We’re fuelled by the long-lost spirit of adventure, guided by environmental and cultural responsibility, and committed to creating transformative travel experiences.

We’re pioneers of the Expedition Micro Cruise, offering the smallest group sizes at both poles. That means a flexible itinerary. It means more time exploring and photographing. It means a deeper connection with your team and the natural world.

We understand that, out here, less is more. Less waiting to board Zodiacs, more time ashore. Less strict itineraries, more adventure. Less crowd, more immersion.

That’s why we’re not just small. We’re micro.

Meet Secret Atlas

What's Included?

  • Lectures, workshops on board, and daily exploratory activities

  • Free use of ship’s Wi-Fi powered by Starlink

  • Full board (breakfast, lunch and dinner) beverages served during meals, while on board our micro cruises

  • Rubber polar standard boots for shore landings

  • One piece insulation suits available on board

  • IAATO and AECO fees, and operational fees and permits included

  • Provision of an onboard basic medical clinic and an expedition doctor

Expeditions Starting in Puerto Natales

  • Private charter flight to Antarctica

  • Transfer airport-lodge on arrival to Puerto Natales, and en route to Antarctica

  • Complementary night & welcome dinner at a classic Patagonian Lodge

Expeditions Starting in Ushuaia

  • Luggage pick up from your hotel the morning of embarkation

Expeditions Ending in Puerto Natales

  • Private charter flight from Antarctica

  • Complementary night & farewell dinner at a classic Patagonian Lodge

  • Transfer airport-lodge on arrival from Antarctica, and departing Puerto Natales

  • Exclusive Peace of Mind Extension Package, at UNESCO World Heritage Site Torres del Paine!

Expeditions Ending in Ushuaia

  • Luggage delivery at your hotel or drop off point the morning of disembarkation

Not included

International flights – we recommend booking early. For excellent service and support, consider using our partner Exito Travel

Travel and cancellation insurance – we strongly recommend securing coverage to protect your expedition. For guidance, see our Travel Insurance Checklist

Additional expenses outside of what is included in the voyage or optional activities

Gratuities

Additional purchases or services on board

Other transfer or hotels unless specified as included as part of the voyage description

Blonde girl in the snow Antarctic Secret Atlas

Solo explorers

Solo travellers are welcome on all our voyages. We often host solo travellers – the chances are you won’t be the only one. We offer the following accommodation options:

  • Single cabins (where available)

  • The option to share a twin cabin with another traveller of the same gender

  • The option to have your own double cabin for an additional supplement. Please contact us for this option as the price varies depending on trip and availability

FAQs

What is the best time to visit Antarctica?

The Antarctic season runs from November through March. Each month offers unique conditions—Antarctica in November is pristine, Antarctica in December and January brings peak wildlife activity, and Antarctica in March is golden and whale-rich.

Can flights to King George Island be delayed?

Yes. Antarctic weather is unpredictable, and flights can be postponed until it is safe to travel. Secret Atlas builds flexibility into itineraries to accommodate these potential delays.

When is penguin breeding season in Antarctica?

Penguin breeding begins in spring (November–December) with courtship and nesting, while by January and February chicks hatch and colonies are at their busiest.

Is Antarctica colder in spring, summer or autumn?

Spring and autumn are cooler than midsummer. Antarctica weather in November and December is crisp and snowy, while Antarctica in March is milder but with shorter days and golden light.

Can you visit Antarctica in winter?

No. Antarctic cruises only run November to March. Winter brings extreme cold, darkness, and impassable sea ice.

What is the warmest month in Antarctica?

January is typically the warmest, with highs between 0°C and 5°C (32–41°F). Wildlife is at its most active, with penguin chicks hatching and whale sightings increasing.

When is the best month for whale watching in Antarctica?

Whales can be seen throughout the season, but Antarctica in February and March offers the richest encounters, with humpbacks, minkes, orcas, and sei whales gathering in large numbers.

How long does it take to fly to Antarctica from Puerto Natales?

The flight from Puerto Natales to King George Island takes just two to two and a half hours, compared to the two full days required to cross the Drake Passage by sea.

Is sailing the Drake Passage dangerous?

While the Drake Passage is infamous for its rough seas, modern expedition ships are designed to handle the conditions safely. For many, the crossing is a challenging but rewarding rite of passage and a story to tell for years to come.

How much luggage can I bring?

We recommend bringing a soft-sided luggage bag that can be easily stored in your cabin. It’s important to check with your airline about luggage size or weight restrictions. 

Do you cater for specific dietary requirements (e.g. vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free, allergies)?

Yes, we can accommodate all dietary requirements. After you make your booking, we’ll ask you to provide details about your specific needs.

What if the outbound flight is moved forward or delayed?

  • Outbound Flight – Moved Forward

    At times, outbound flights may be rescheduled to the afternoon or evening of Day 1. To help your journey begin smoothly, we ask that guests plan to arrive in Puerto Natales by 5pm (check in from 3pm) on the first day of the itinerary. Arriving later than this may mean we’re unable to board you onto the flight, and we want to avoid anyone missing the start of their adventure.

  • Outbound Flight – Delayed

    If weather delays the outbound flight, the group will remain in Puerto Natales, with accommodation, meals, and, when possible, guided excursions to local attractions.

    With Secret Atlas, our micro fly cruise voyages extend the flight window, giving you a much higher chance of reaching Antarctica. By contrast, while most operators set a cut-off on Day 4 (afternoon), we extend ours to Day 5 evening, increasing the operational flight window by over 45%.

What if the return flight is moved forward or delayed?

  • Return Flight – Moved Forward

    To avoid prolonged delays in Antarctica, the return flight may be moved forward. Accommodation and all other inclusions remain as per the original itinerary. No refund will be extended in this scenario.

  • Return Flight – Delayed

    If weather delays the return, the group will remain in Antarctica with meals and accommodation provided on board. Should delays exceed two days with no improvement forecasted, the captain may choose to sail back to South America for safety. The trip concludes at Puerto Natales airport, and guests are responsible for any onward travel adjustments.

mountain peak is covered with white snow in Antarctica

Explorer's Handbook

Everything you need to know to help you plan your polar expedition, from destination guides to weather insights and what to pack…

VIEW HANDBOOK
Iceberg off coast of Antarctica Zodiac cruise Secret Atlas

Antarctica Travel Guide

Our ultimate travel guide to Antarctica will help inspire your journey to the extreme south.
View Guide
Glacier lagoon in Antarctica

Best Time to Visit Antarctica

The Antarctic travel season runs from November through March, when the continent's weather conditions allow for safe navigation and shore landings.
View Guide
Female Antarctic fur seal (Arctocephalus gazella) on Half Moon Island in the South Shetland Islands, Antarctica. Secret Atlas

Animals in Antarctica | What Animals Call the Antarctic Home?

What animals can you spot during an Expedition Micro Cruise to Antarctica?
View Guide
Catamaran boats in the Ushuaia harbor port. Ushuaia is the capital of Tierra del Fuego province in Argentina.

Ushuaia to Antarctica | How to Get There and Travel Tips

Explore the world's southernmost city, Ushuaia, in Argentina's Tierra del Fuego. Gateway to Antarctica with stunning mountain views, hiking trails, and maritime history.
View Guide
IcebergsAndIslands DrakeCrossing Antarctica 2024 JeanPauldelaharpe Secret Atlas

Drake Passage | Antarctica’s Legendary Crossing

The Drake Passage, often considered ‘the most dreaded bit of ocean on the globe’, is a final challenge for explorers visiting the Antarctic Peninsula.
View Guide
Iceberg at sunset,King George island,Antarctica

King George Island | Gateway to Antarctica

Antarctica's most accessible island, home to research stations from eight nations. Experience penguin colonies, dramatic glaciers, and beautiful landscape on King George Island.
View Guide
Female Photographer Antarctica Cruise Ship Professional Telephoto Lens Expedition Side Railing Beautiful Glacier Views Tourist Passenger Travel

How to Get to Antarctica

The journey to Antarctica requires careful planning and consideration. You'll need to choose between two main approaches – travelling by ship or by air. Each option offers its own distinct advantages and considerations for your Antarctic adventure.
View Guide
Guests scouting and photographing wildlife in Svalbard

What to Pack for Antarctica and South Georgia

What to wear – and what not to wear – on your Antarctica and South Georgia adventure.
View Guide
Patagonia Town Of Puerto Natales Chile Shutterstock Secret Atlas

Puerto Natales | Gateway to Torres del Paine and Antarctica

Puerto Natales is the natural starting point for exploring Torres del Paine National Park — and one of the southern gateways for travellers bound for Antarctica.
View Guide
Guests hiking back to zodiac in Svalbard Private family tour with Secret Atlas

Travel Insurance Checklist

Everything you need to know about travel insurance for your Secret Atlas expedition.
View Guide

Design your own private expedition micro cruise with Secret Atlas

Share the journey with those who matter most.

Booking info
Micro Cruise

Antarctic Summer Micro Fly Cruise — Sail One Way

Rates
£11,995 €12,995 US$14,495 CA$19,995 AU$21,995 pp
Duration
9 days
Dates
Jan — Dec
Book Now

Twin Porthole

The Classic Twin cabin offers a cosy, Scandinavian-inspired space featuring two lower twin beds and a porthole window. 

Recently refurbished, it includes a wardrobe and a shared shower and toilet, providing a stylish yet homely retreat. The perfect place to unwind after exploring the remote corners of the planet. 

Twin Porthole

In your cabin

  • Starlink Wi-Fi
  • 220v 2-pin European plug socket
  • Complimentary toiletries
  • Towels
  • Bedding and throw
  • Hairdryer
  • Rubber Muck boots (provided by Secret Atlas for the duration of your expedition)
  • Slippers
Twin Porthole Suite Location

Classic Twin

The Classic Twin cabin combines comfort and charm with its Scandinavian-inspired design. 

This welcoming space offers two lower twin beds, and natural light gently brightens the room through thoughtfully placed windows. Enjoy the convenience of an ensuite shower and toilet, ample wardrobe space, and a dedicated desk area. A homely setting on your polar journey.

Classic Twin

In your cabin

  • Starlink Wi-Fi
  • 220v 2-pin European plug socket
  • Complimentary toiletries
  • Towels
  • Bedding and throw
  • Hairdryer
  • Rubber Muck boots (provided by Secret Atlas for the duration of your expedition)
  • Slippers
Classic Twin Suite Location

Classic Suite

The Classic Suite is a roomy and stylish Scandinavian-inspired sanctuary. This light and airy cabin features large windows, a plush double bed, a cosy lounge with a corner desk and a comfortable sofa, perfect for curling up on with a good book. 

With an ensuite shower and toilet, and thoughtful touches throughout, this is the perfect place to relax and enjoy peaceful moments after a day exploring the polar wilderness.

Classic Suite

In your cabin

  • Starlink Wi-Fi
  • 220v 2-pin European plug socket
  • Complimentary toiletries
  • Towels
  • Bedding and throw
  • Hairdryer
  • Rubber Muck boots (provided by Secret Atlas for the duration of your expedition)
  • Slippers
Classic Suite Suite Location

Signature Suite

The Signature Suite is Polar Athena’s most luxurious accommodation, fully refurbished with an elegant Scandinavian design. This spacious retreat features a plush double bed, a relaxing lounge area with a sofa, and a stylish corner desk—perfect for journaling your travel adventures. 

Large windows fill the cabin with natural light, offering scenic polar views and a tranquil sanctuary after your days of exploration.

Signature Suite

In your cabin

  • Starlink Wi-Fi
  • 220v 2-pin European plug socket
  • Complimentary toiletries
  • Towels
  • Bedding and throw
  • Hairdryer
  • Rubber Muck boots (provided by Secret Atlas for the duration of your expedition)
  • Slippers

Signature Suite Suite Location

Signature Single

The Single Signature cabin is where Scandinavian design meets practical comfort, offering either two lower beds or bunk beds. 

Each cabin features windows that fill the space with natural light, a wardrobe for storage, and a private ensuite bathroom with an ensuite shower and toilet. Perfectly suited for solo travellers, these cabins provide a peaceful retreat to relax and recharge.  

Signature Single

In your cabin

  • Starlink Wi-Fi
  • 220v 2-pin European plug socket
  • Complimentary toiletries
  • Towels
  • Bedding and throw
  • Hairdryer
  • Rubber Muck boots (provided by Secret Atlas for the duration of your expedition)
  • Slippers
Signature Single Suite Location

We use cookies to provide a better online experience. Please let us know if you agree to them. You can read our Privacy Policy for more information.

Join the Secret Atlas newsletter

Secret Atlas

Join the Secret Atlas newsletter

Thank you for signing up!

Welcome to Expedition Micro Cruising. Discover the difference.

We will be exclusively sharing with you our best-kept secrets. You'll receive first-hand expert advice and inspiring stories from our team of explorers, plus our latest news and offers.

Secretatlas

Plan Your Journey

Speak to an Expedition Specialist

Book a Video Call

30 min
Google Meet video conference

Speak face-to-face with an expedition specialist. Ask questions, explore ideas, and start shaping a journey built around you.

Book a Phone Call

30 min
Phone call

Talk with an expedition specialist. Get clear, honest guidance to help you plan your next Expedition Micro Cruise.

Download your brochure

Just enter a few details to receive your brochure.