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Latest update: October 16, 2021
Chile is our gateway to Antarctica on this trip, so the situation there has of course been the most vital to monitor.
STATUS OF COVID IN CHILE
STATUS OF COVID IN CHILE
Progress against Covid in Chile the past three months has been excellent, with the past two months seeing some of the lowest case numbers of the last 17 months.
The daily new case rate since mid-August has been hovering between 2 to 6 per 100,000. Rates in the U.S., by comparison, have been x5 to x25 higher in the same period hovering between 25 to 52 per 100,000 nationally (or even over 100 per 100K in the more afflicted states, with rates x30 higher).
Vaccination in Chile has also reached impressive numbers, with about 90% of the adult population receiving at least one dose so far (and 96% even in the Magallanes region of Chile that our starts and ends in).
ENTRY REQUIREMENTS & PARAMETERS FOR CHILE
ENTRY REQUIREMENTS & PARAMETERS FOR CHILE
In light of this progress, Chile took its first step of a gradual opening to international travelers in October.
As of November 1st, entry requirements for non-resident foreigners are:
proof of full vaccination (verified via an online portal)
a negative PCR test taken within 72 hours of boarding a flight to Chile
completion of an online form & affidavit
travel insurance with at least $30,000 in medical coverage
a second negative PCR test taken on arrival in Chile
That last requirement takes the place of the 5 day quarantine in place through October during the first stage of opening. The government is putting a system in place for PCR test results to be ready within 12 hours. This timeframe seems increasingly reliable per trusted sources & official announcements, though we already have a back-up arrangement in place with a private testing service just in case.
ABOARD SHIP, FOR ANTARCTICA
ABOARD SHIP, FOR ANTARCTICA
You can find Antarctica21's detailed Health & Safety Plan for the upcoming season at this link. This multi-page PDF was first announced in early August and we expect an update soon.
One key note you'll find in there: Chile's entry requirements aside, Antarctica21 is also requiring that everyone aboard ship (passengers, crew & expedition staff) be fully vaccinated.
FAQ / ASSURANCES
FAQ / ASSURANCES
While the trip is confirmed and it is exceedingly unlikely at this point that it would need to be cancelled due to Covid (thanks to enduring favorable statistics, Chile's opening to travelers, etc), we understand *any trip booking* this year may come with this concern. To answer a few related questions:
What will happen if Antarctica21 has to cancel the trip before departure?
You will have the option to either reschedule for a future date (keeping your 2021 price even if it increases) OR to receive a full refund.
What if I already purchased flights?
Most airlines are still offering Covid-related flexibility. If you work with our flights coordinator, she can make sure to steer you to those airlines (or otherwise make you aware of restrictions that are worth understanding), and will be able to assist with any needed changes.
For the following questions on travel insurance, we can at least answer for the policies from our partner Travel Insured International (mentioned here).
What will happen to the insurance policy I purchased if Antarctica21 cancels the trip, or if I decide to postpone?
Travel Insured International will simply adjust the policy to new trip dates, or simply offer you a credit for future use.
Will my insurance policy cover me if I fall ill or test positive for Covid?
Certainly. As per TII: "COVID-19 is treated that same as any other sickness for purposes of all coverages that are triggered by a sickness or that can reimburse losses resulting from a sickness." So, if getting Covid prevents you from traveling, your policy will cover you. If you get Covid while you are traveling, benefits will apply. Etc.
For additional specific questions regarding Covid & travel insurance, the following FAQs & resources from TII may be reassuring to review: Covid-19 FAQs & Coverage | Additional FAQs | Coronavirus Resources
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