As a professional photographer, I’ve had the opportunity to travel to more than 100 countries, including some of the most off-the-beaten path places on Earth — from North Korea to the jungles of Borneo.
But one of the most photogenic places on Earth had eluded me until the winter of 2021: Antarctica.
This was, in part, self-inflicted. Though I love cruising, I could not stomach the idea of crossing the dreaded Drake Passage from Chile or Argentina. Then came a recommendation to fly over this legendary body of water from Punta Arenas, Chile, and board Antarctica21’s Magellan Explorer, which exclusively runs “air-cruises.”
Following are the top reasons for fellow Drakeophobes to consider this option and experience the magic and majesty of the Antarctic — while keeping seasickness largely at bay.
Skip the Side Effects of "the Drake Shake"
It is almost a guarantee that cruisers sailing the Drake Passage will experience high seas on either (or both) the outbound or inbound multiday crossings to/from South America. Opting for an air cruise onboard Antarctica21 is a great compromise for those who want to avoid seasickness while experiencing a cruise in the Antarctic. (But, be warned: Although it’s not anywhere as dramatic as the Drake Passage, the two overnight crossings between the South Shetland Islands — where the fly/cruise landing strip is located — and the Antarctic Peninsula can get rough, so it’s still a good idea to pack some Dramamine.)
A penguin during an “ecstatic display” in Neko Harbour, Antarctica
Credit: 2022 Mark Edward HarrisSail on a Brand-New, Super Intimate Ship
Antarctica21’s Magellan Explorer is a new state-of-the-art ship (built in Chile and launched in 2019) that can maneuver into areas of the Antarctic that large cruise ships cannot access. This is especially useful for being in a position to launch its expedition Zodiacs close to shore.
Antarctica21’s intimate Magellan Explorer began sailing in 2019.
Credit: 2022 Mark Edward HarrisEnjoy Fast Transfers During Excursions
A smaller ship means faster transfers from the ship onto Zodiacs for morning and afternoon excursions, landing on some of the most remote places on Earth. The Magellan Explorer carries a maximum of 73 passengers while its older sister, Ocean Nova, has a maximum capacity of 69 passengers.
When picking an Antarctica sailing, opt for ships that maximize excursion time.
Credit: 2022 Mark Edward HarrisRub Elbows With Subject Matter Pros
Experts in the fields of Antarctic wildlife, geology, photography and history offer nightly onboard programs, as well as being available on land for in-the-field studies and support.
Back onboard, wildlife experts share facts about Antarctica’s fascinating residents.
Credit: 2022 Mark Edward HarrisDo We Have to Mention the Penguins?
Chinstrap and gentoo penguins are not camera shy.
A group of chinstrap penguins socialize at Baily Head on Deception Island.
Credit: 2022 Mark Edward HarrisGo Eye to Eye With Whales
Whales are a common sight in the Antarctic and are best observed from sea level onboard a Zodiac.
Antarctica’s summer season is the best time to see whales.
Credit: 2022 Mark Edward HarrisKayak Amidst Icebergs
The Magellan Explorer offers kayaking opportunities for those who want to experience the amazing natural architecture of icebergs at their own pace.
Kayaking in Antarctica is a bucket-list adventure.
Credit: 2022 Mark Edward HarrisMaximize Precious Time
For those with limited time, the fly/cruise option offers the full Antarctic experience in a week. For those with more time, Punta Arenas, where the fly/cruise itinerary originates and concludes, is a major gateway to Patagonia.
By flying over the Drake Passage, travelers will maximize their time in Antarctica — making sure they won’t miss any memorable moments.
Credit: 2022 Mark Edward HarrisI added a couple of days at The Singular Patagonia at the front end of the trip to adjust to the local time zone and to explore this magnificent part of Chile, before boarding the two-hour flight to the South Shetland Islands to begin what became one of the greatest journeys of my life.
To see more of Mark Edward Harris’ photographic journey to the Antarctic, as well as his other camera-in-hand adventures visit his Instagram: @MarkEdwardHarrisPhoto
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