Aircraft charter specialist Chapman Freeborn has partnered with EYOS Expeditions to offer high-end excursions to Antarctica that combine private jet flights and a cruise aboard a state-of-the-art expedition yacht.
The two luxury travel firms first teamed up earlier in 2014 when they launched their fully customisable Arctic cruise, but the duo are now inaugurating the Enigma XK yacht and taking intrepid travellers to the far south.
The door-to-door package incorporates private aircraft transfers from Chapman Freeborn and a multi-day cruise on the 72-metre luxury expedition vessel, courtesy of EYOS Expeditions.
The bespoke expeditions are described as the best chance to witness the stunning white vistas of Antarctica and kayak among icebergs.
Expert staff are on hand to guide guests through the teeming penguin colonies and rarely accessed glacial sites, before retiring each day to the luxury setting of Enigma XK, which has its own on-board sauna to help travellers unwind and escape the frosty weather. Guests will also have full access to the on-board gym, hair salon and masseuse.
“The ENIGMA XK is one of the very few yachts designed to be a true expedition vessel,” said Ben Lyons, CEO at EYOS Expeditions.
“She has a professional crew that understands the unique demands of an expedition, a sturdy hull to punch through Antarctic ice flows and the range to explore far away from any supporting infrastructure. When you combine the incredible scenery of Antarctica with the facilities of the ENIGMA XK and the convenience of private jet transfers, you truly have the ultimate Antarctic experience.”
A typical 10-day itinerary involves jetting to Punta Arenas in Chile, before boarding a specially equipped aircraft to the Antarctic continent. Another option is for guests to fly into Ushuaia, Argentina, and begin their expedition by circumnavigating Cape Horn.
Enigma XK charter rates start at EUR 250,000 (US $330,366) per week, plus expenses. Return private jet charters to Puntas Arenas from New York start from EUR 145,000 ($191,620). Charters are available from most worldwide departure points.
A day-by-day example expedition to Antarctica can be found here.