One Ocean Expeditions (OOE) has expanded its Antarctica program for 2018-2019 with the addition of fly-cruises, giving a choice of start and end points in South America, plus the option of travelling by ship across the Southern Ocean or flying to provide more time in destination, the company said, in a prepared statement.

The company operates a pair of Russian research vessels on charter agreements in Antarctica, the Arctic and the Canadian Arctic.

OOE’s Managing Director Andrew Prossin commented: “Our Antarctic 2018-19 program is based on proven itineraries combined with an increase in demand from clients to expand the gateways to Punta Arenas (Chile), King George Island (Antarctica) and Ushuaia (Argentina). “We’ve listened to our guests and built in a greater amount of flexibility, enabling them to experience the wonders of Argentina and Chile pre- and post cruise, as well as to spend more time in Antarctica.”

Also new from OOE for the 2018-2019 season is an increase in back-country ski groups up to a maximum of 16 guests on its Antarctica Off The Beaten Track itinerary.

Additional departure dates have also been added for Falkland Islands, South Georgia and Antarctica cruises, with a special focus on the 16-night voyages, which incorporate flights from King George Island to Stanley.

A choice of either a 14-night or a 16-night itinerary is also now available on South Georgia in Depth cruises, both of which spend eight days exploring South Georgia’s east coast. In addition, the first departure will host OOE’s annual Antarctic photography symposium, with five professional photographers onboard. By offering these two departure options, guests can choose their preferred gateway city for pre- and post-cruise travel, as well as opt to cross the southern ocean either onboard the ship or by plane.