King George Island
Where is it?
King George Island is the largest of the South Shetland Islands and lies 75 miles off the coast of Antarctica.
About King George Island
The island was first claimed by the British in 1819 and named after King George III, however the following years were turbulent with many disputes about who owned the island. In some form or another, Argentina, Brazil, Chile, China, South Korea, Poland, Russia, Uruguay, the Netherlands, Ecuador, Germany, Peru and the US all have a presence on the island. In so doing, these countries earn the status of a consultative party, or full member, of the Antarctic Treaty.
King George Island now serves as an aerodrome for flights to Antarctica, and is known as the unofficial capital of the continent because of the numerous research stations there. Aside from the scientific significance, the island is a haven for wildlife, and is home to many marine mammals such as Elephant, Weddell and Leopard seals, and colonies of Chinstrap and Gentoo penguins.
How to Visit:
Antarctic Peninsula cruises often start with a visit to King George Island as it is the first major outcrop of land after navigating the Drake Passage.
Fly-and-Cruise expeditions land / take off from the runway at King George. Fly across the famous Drake Passage from the town of Punta Arenas in southern Chilean Patagonia, saving 2-3 days of time at sea - an important consideration for those either short on time or avert to sea-travel. Travellers then board their cruise ship when in Antarctica, thereby sailing across the Drake only once.
Photos of King George Island
King George Island, Antarctica
Gentoo penguins
Map of King George Island
Nearby landmarks
Trips that visit King George Island
Flexibility is the key to success in Antarctica. All voyage routes take advantage of the ever-changing opportunities provided by nature, crafting a unique and extraordinary experience each time.
Special Offers:Swoop has access to the widest range of offers and can help you find the right trip, cabin, & price.
Explore the White Continent aboard one of the polar fleet's newest additions, a state-of-the-art expedition vessel combining adventure with comfort. As well as being limited to only 130 passengers, there’s a wide range of optional activities on this classic Antarctic…
- 12-15 Days
- $12,395
By offering time saving flights, extended time in Antarctica and the chance to reach the Polar Circle, this 10-day voyage maximises the polar experience. Minimum travel time and maximum exploring time and all the benefits of only 76 people…
- 10 Days
- $15,495
A cost-effective Antarctic adventure. This itinerary is also ideal for those with limited time wanting to combine Antarctica with time exploring Patagonia. Sailing one way and flying back, you get to combine two iconic places: Antarctica and Cape Horn. Note,…
- 6-7 Days
- $5,995
Fly over the Drake Passage in just 2 hours, both to and from Antarctica. Ideal for those wanting a high comfort level, but who have limited time or are anxious sailors. An outstanding program, successfully operated for over 15 seasons.…
- 8 Days
- $12,995
This unique express trip saves time by flying to Antarctica, cutting out 2 sailing days and skipping the Falklands. Maximising your time amid the spectacular wildlife and scenery of Antarctica and South Georgia is the focus of this voyage. The…
- 17 Days
- $15,995
Combining the twin advantages of flying to Antarctica with travelling on one of the polar fleet’s smallest and most advanced vessels, this voyage is hard to beat. Added benefits include an extra day or two on the Peninsula than usual,…
- 9 or 10 Days
- $13,975
Enjoy the best of both worlds by sailing south, experiencing the journey across the Drake Passage and the elation of spotting your first iceberg, then expedite your return to civilisation by plane at the end. In between, spend four days…
- 10 Days
- $11,950
Fast-tracking your arrival into Antarctica by flying and skipping the Drake Passage means a compressed journey of only 2 hours before embarking on your spacious and well-appointed 148 guest expeditionary ship. Touches other travellers have appreciated include the onboard National…
- 8 Days
- $11,975
Get the best of both worlds on this time-efficient Antarctic adventure. Sail south on a thrilling journey across the Drake Passage, then take a swift two hour flight back to civilisation at the end of your voyage. In between, spend…
- 12 Days
- $17,195
For maximum time in Antarctica with flights both ways, this trip really stands out. An extended fly & cruise voyage spending eight full days actually in Antarctica onboard a small, state-of-the-art expedition ship. Optional kayaking & polar…
- 12 Days
- $14,795
A rare and popular voyage which flies to Antarctica in just two hours, then sails back across the Drake Passage, maximising both expediency and experience. Spend 5 to 7 days exploring Antarctica on a small, purpose-built expedition ship, with kayaking…
- 9-13 Days
- $11,695
