Antarctica21, an Antarctic tourism operator, has renewed its exclusive partnership with HIF Global to power its fleet of 10 Zodiac boats with e-gasoline. This synthetic fuel, made from green hydrogen and recycled CO2 at HIF's Haru Oni plant in Punta Arenas, Chile, is a "drop-in" replacement, meaning it requires no engine modifications. This alliance, first launched in October 2024, positions Antarctica21 as a leader in decarbonizing polar travel, having completed a second season using the carbon-neutral fuel for their Zodiac fleet and achieving 92% occupancy for the 2025-26 season with 2,847 passengers from 53 nationalities across 42 expeditions.
The cost of e-fuels remains a factor, as they are more expensive than conventional petroleum. While Antarctica21 has not disclosed the pricing impact, the high-margin nature of Antarctic expedition cruises, typically ranging from $8,000 to $15,000 per passenger for a week-long voyage, may allow for easier absorption of these additional costs. The proximity of the HIF Global plant to Punta Arenas, a common embarkation point, provides a logistical advantage by reducing transportation costs and the carbon footprint of fuel delivery, creating a closed-loop model that is difficult to replicate elsewhere.
Other operators are exploring sustainable alternatives. White Desert, another luxury Antarctic travel outfitter, has been using Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF) derived from waste oils and greases for its logistics and South Pole journeys since September 2024. They are testing high blends of up to 50% SAF, which can provide a 24-40% overall carbon saving. White Desert offers luxury experiences with high price tags, including a "Greatest Day" adventure starting at $15,950 per person and a "South Pole and Emperor Penguins" journey priced at $110,000 for seven days. This year, White Desert is also establishing solar arrays to transition to fully renewable power for its camps in the coming seasons.
Antarctica21's operational model, which allows travelers to fly directly to Antarctica from Punta Arenas, avoiding the two-day Drake Passage crossing, continues to attract a diverse customer base. The company achieved 99% guest satisfaction and recommenation rates in post-expedition surveys. Sustainability is a core focus for Antarctica21, which has maintained its CarbonNeutral® certification for seven consecutive years. Guests also contributed over $100,000 to the Antarctica21 Foundation, supporting community initiatives, scientific research, and educational programs, while the solar panel system at their Explorers House in Punta Arenas supplied 52% of the facility's energy consumption.
