Over these years we have gained extensive experience in the delicate coordination of land, air, and sea operations in the extreme Antarctic environment. While historically most flights have operated on the scheduled day, in some instances weather conditions have required that adjustments to the departure time of Antarctic flights be made to avoid protracted delays. In the unlikely event that the flight to or from Antarctica cannot take place on the scheduled day due to unfavorable weather conditions, we will apply a Contingency Plan.
The Contingency Plan is included in the cost of your expedition. The primary goal of the plan is to provide an engaging and comfortable travel experience while we adapt to the weather and we keep you informed of developments, whether in Punta Arenas or Antarctica. A change in the flight schedule can impact travel to Antarctica or return to Punta Arenas, and the plan includes a range of activities determined by the circumstances. Additionally, the Contingency Plan offers you financial protection by providing a refund should weather conditions prevent us from reaching Antarctica.
In case the outbound flight to Antarctica is moved forward
In some cases, it may be necessary to move forward the Antarctic flight to the afternoon or evening of Day 1 of the itinerary. This will result in an early departure from Punta Arenas and early arrival in Antarctica. It is one reason why it is important that guests arrive in Punta Arenas by 2 PM on Day 1 of the itinerary. Travelers who miss the 2 PM arrival deadline will be considered “no-show.”
In case the outbound flight to Antarctica is delayed
The group will remain in Punta Arenas while waiting for an improvement in the weather and for the opportunity to fly to Antarctica. Included are accommodation, meals, and, when possible, based on the circumstances, guided excursions to local attractions. If by 2 PM on Day 4 of the itinerary it is still impossible to depart for Antarctica, the trip will be interrupted, and the cruise fare will be refunded.
In case the return flight to Punta Arenas is moved forward
In those cases when the forecast suggests the likelihood of unfavorable weather conditions in Antarctica persisting for several days, the flight back to Punta Arenas may be moved forward to the previous day to avoid a protracted delay in Antarctica. Accommodation is included upon arrival. All other inclusions will remain per the original itinerary. No refund will be extended.
In case the return flight to Punta Arenas is delayed
The group will remain in Antarctica and wait for the opportunity to fly to Punta Arenas. In the unlikely event that the delay exceeds 2 days and the weather forecast indicates the impossibility to fly over several more days, the captain of the vessel may decide to sail back to South America for safety reasons. Included are meals and accommodation on the ship and local excursions. Upon arrival in Punta Arenas, the trip will end at the airport. Travelers are responsible for any expenses associated with the rescheduling of their airline tickets or onward travel plans.
