Explore our Antarctica Itineraries
Custom Antarctica Expeditions: The Fly-and-Sail Experience
A trip to the White Continent should feel personal and simple. At Dittmar Adventures, we plan custom Antarctica expeditions to match your exact goals. First, we eliminate the dreaded four-day ocean crossing through the rough Drake Passage. Instead, you take a smooth two-hour flight from Punta Arenas directly to King George Island. As a result, you save precious travel time and skip seasickness completely. Therefore, you can spend more time out on the ice. You can watch lively penguin colonies, cruise by blue icebergs, and explore deep polar fjords.
Fly the Drake in Comfort
Fly over the rough Drake Passage in just two hours. In fact, our flights use planes with short runway capability. Our flight crews have over 25 years of Antarctic flight experience.
- Save four days of rough travel at sea.
- Also, avoid motion sickness completely.
Small-Ship Freedom (76 Guests Max)
Polar rules limit shore visits to 100 people at a time. Large ships must split guests into groups. However, our small partner ships carry only 67 to 76 guests. Consequently, every traveler can go ashore at the exact same time.
- Enjoy double the time on the snow.
- Learn from 12 friendly polar guides on every trip.
Tailored Patagonia Trips
Your polar flight departs from Punta Arenas in Chilean Patagonia. Because of this, we can easily extend your journey on land. You can hike in Torres del Paine before or after you fly.
- Private road trips to Torres del Paine.
- In addition, enjoy custom hikes in El Chaltén and Bariloche.
Designing Your Bespoke Polar Journey
Every traveler has unique dreams for their trip. For example, you might want to see penguin chicks in mid-summer. Others may prefer to paddle among icebergs or cross the Polar Circle. Therefore, our team works with you to design your perfect voyage. We help you select your travel dates, cabin style, and daily activities:
| Custom Element | What We Curate for You | The Dittmar Value |
|---|---|---|
| Voyage Style & Route | Choose a classic peninsula trip, an active circle crossing, or a Cape Horn route. | We align your travel dates with peak wildlife activity. |
| Ship Selection | Choose between the modern Magellan Explorer or the nimble Ocean Nova. | Furthermore, we provide honest advice on cabin types and single travel options. |
| Adventure Upgrades | Add a spot on the sea kayak program or join guided snowshoe hikes. | We book your spot early before limited spaces sell out. |
| Custom Land Extensions | Add guided hikes in Torres del Paine, glacier walks, or city stays. | As a result, you enjoy private transfers and hotel bookings in one seamless plan. |
Curated Ships: Small, Friendly, and Nimble
We believe small ships offer the finest polar experience. You get off the ship quickly and enjoy warm hospitality. In addition, we work with two purpose-built expedition ships:
Magellan Explorer
Built in Chile in 2019 • Max 76 Guests • Polar Code PC6
This modern boutique ship offers exceptional comfort in polar waters. Nearly all cabins feature a private balcony. Also, guests enjoy an observation lounge, a gym, a sauna, and 10 Zodiacs. Best of all, an eco-friendly system uses engine heat to warm the ship.
Ideal for travelers wanting modern comfort and active wildlife outings.
Ocean Nova
Danish Ice-Class Hull (1A) • Max 67 Guests • Pure Adventure
This sturdy ship was built to sail through Greenland pack ice. It is nimble, quick, and can enter shallow bays with ease. Inside, you will find an observation lounge, a library, a bar, and 7 Zodiacs. Therefore, it is the ideal choice for travelers who want an active, casual expedition.
Ideal for adventure lovers seeking an authentic, relaxed polar cruise.
Ground Logistics Managed by Polar Specialists
End-to-End Care from Start to Finish
Smooth planning is critical for any polar adventure. Dittmar Adventures takes care of every single step. Because of our local network, your trip runs smoothly from start to finish:
- Exclusive Base: First, visit Explorers House in Punta Arenas to meet guides and test gear.
- Priority Polar Flights: In addition, fly on reliable jets with priority flight windows to avoid delays.
- Free Boot Loan: Next, borrow sturdy waterproof muck boots on Day 1 for all shore visits.
- Free Luggage Storage: Also, store your extra bags safely in Punta Arenas during your cruise.
- Full Weather Safety: Finally, every trip includes a clear backup plan and full refund protection.
Frequently Asked Questions
How does Dittmar Adventures customize an Antarctic journey?
We never sell one-size-fits-all cruise packages. Instead, our travel planners work with you one-on-one. We learn about your dream trip, budget, and favorite wildlife. Then, we choose the right dates, ship, cabin, and land tours for you.
Can we combine an Antarctica air-cruise with a Patagonia hike?
Yes, this is our most requested custom trip. Our polar flights depart from Punta Arenas in Chilean Patagonia. Therefore, we can easily plan private hikes in Torres del Paine or Los Glaciares. You can complete your hike right before or after you visit the ice.
How far in advance should we contact a specialist?
We advise reaching out 10 to 18 months ahead of your trip. Our partner ships carry only 67 to 76 guests. Consequently, private cabins and popular dates sell out quickly. In addition, sea kayak permits are limited to just 10 paddlers per voyage.
What happens if bad weather delays our polar flight?
Every flight operates with a proven backup plan. If weather grounds our plane, we cover your hotel, meals, and local tours in Punta Arenas. However, if the flight cannot leave by Day 4, you receive a full cruise refund.
Ready to Plan Your Custom Antarctic Journey?
Connect directly with a Dittmar Adventures expedition planner. We will find the ideal flight window and match you with the perfect boutique vessel. In addition, we will build a custom itinerary crafted around your goals.