Antarctica by Private Expedition Ship

Due to the limited capacity of our small expedition ship, this trip accommodates a maximum of 12 travelers, plus our Nat Hab Expedition Leader and six crew members. Such a small group guarantees an intimate and inimitable experience of Antarctica, with highly personalized guide, staff and guest relationships.

• Trip price includes: Accommodations on the mainland in Puerto Natales, Chile and aboard our private expedition ship, services of Nat Hab's professional Expedition Leader(s), boat crew and local guides, all meals from dinner on Day 1 through breakfast on final day, some alcoholic beverages, some gratuities, airport transfers for those arriving by air on Day 1 and departing by air on the final day, gear including all kayaking equipment and camping equipment for optional overnights, all activities and entrance fees, all taxes, permits and service fees.

Travel to and from the start and end point of your trip, some alcoholic beverages, some gratuities, passport and visa fees (if any), optional activities, items of a personal nature (phone calls, laundry and internet, etc.), airline baggage fees, airport and departure taxes (if any), required medical evacuation insurance, optional travel protection insurance.

Sea Sickness
Sea sickness is very common as we do have some transit days; some days can be rough, depending on the weather and where we are navigating. Travelers who are susceptible to motion sickness (and even those who are not!) or who have back problems or other health issues that could be exacerbated by such conditions) should take this into consideration and consult their physician before attempting this expedition.

Medical Form
Due to the extremely remote nature of this adventure, all travelers are required to submit a medical form prior to departure. This form will be emailed to you approximately six months before your trip. It must be completed and signed by your primary care physician, confirming that you are medically cleared to participate based on the physical requirements outlined for this itinerary.

Optional Camping
Weather and local conditions permitting, we may also have the opportunity to camp ashore overnight, as allowed by our special permits. As this activity is completely dependent on weather, as well as other factors, it is important to note that there is no guarantee that camping will be offered on every departure. We will provide appropriate tents and sleeping bags rated for winter camping, as well as expedition-style camping pads, but keep in mind that overnight temperatures can fall below freezing (though it is usually warmer in the tents). Travelers who choose not to camp may sleep aboard the boat if they prefer.

Optional Sea Kayaking
Sea kayaking is offered; our intent is to paddle in largely calm seas, though weather can change with little notice, and excursions can take place in windy, snowy or rainy conditions. Shifting ice may also force us to alter our kayaking itineraries. Paddlers should be aware that kayaking in the weather, sea and ice conditions on the Antarctic Peninsula requires confidence and physical ability. The paddling group will be accompanied by the Expedition Leader and followed by a Zodiac at all times, and if the weather deteriorates, we will return to the boat promptly. No one will be allowed to paddle on their own without the group and guide.

Flight & Sailing Delays
Please note that weather-related delays or changes to your scheduled flight and/or sailing departures may occur. In light of unpredictable weather and its potential impact on flight schedules and operations, guests are strongly advised to have sufficient travel insurance to protect against both flight cancellations and delays, as well as potential marine delays. It may be necessary, for instance, to spend an additional night in Puerto Natales or an extra night aboard the ship on King George Island, in order to wait for favorable weather conditions. Given the potential for such an event, we also recommend that guests consider booking an additional hotel night on the back end of their trip, in case of such a delay.

Environment & Weather
Summer in Antarctica can exhibit all kinds of weather—mostly governed by the prevailing westerly winds and the Antarctic ice sheet. The weather pattern is an unpredictable mixture of marine low-pressure systems and a more stable high-pressure inland climate. The weather is largely influenced by the immense ice sheet that covers the earth's southernmost continent. Temperatures typically range from 30 to 40°F. In other words, you should prepare for all kinds of weather—sunshine and milder temperatures as well as showers and snowstorms. Winds can be both fierce and shifting, and the Antarctic seas are famous for ferocious katabatic storms (rare, but possible).

Meals
Please understand that the meals on board, while hearty and delicious, are specially planned and prepared for well in advance. Dietary requirements due to serious medical conditions or strict personal restrictions can be met, with ample notice, but must be adhered to while on the adventure.

Please arrive in Puerto Natales by 5 pm on Day 1 in order to participate in our group welcome dinner. You are free to depart Puerto Natales at any time on the final day of the trip.

We can serve you best if our Natural Habitat Adventures Travel Desk makes your reservations, as we are intimately familiar with the special requirements of this program and can arrange the most efficient travel. Also, in the case if you are delayed at King George Island and must spend an additional night on the boat, we would be able to make international flight changes on your behalf. Please call us at 800-543-8917. Note that while we offer you the best possible rates available to us on airfare and additional nights' accommodations, you may find special web rates or better fares online.