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The 7 top antarctica cruises for 2024 + tips from an expert.

Plan your next epic adventure to the White Continent.

The Top Antarctica Cruises

Yuri Matisse Choufour | Courtesy of Hurtigruten Expeditions

Experience otherworldly beauty on an Antarctica cruise.

An expedition to Antarctica is a once-in-a-lifetime adventure for intrepid travelers who want to explore this remote destination at the bottom of the world. The landscapes are surreal, with eerily blue icebergs, towering ice-capped mountains, dramatic weather conditions that change within seconds and species of wildlife that exist nowhere else on Earth – it's hard to imagine until you've made the long journey yourself.

The fifth-largest continent is home to the largest ice sheet on the planet, the Antarctic Ice Sheet, as well as the Transantarctic Mountains, with peaks soaring more than 14,700 feet into the sky. West Antarctica has volcanoes that are part of a tectonically active area around the Pacific Ocean known as the "Ring of Fire." This incredibly diverse and magical part of the world also has the coldest temperature ever recorded at -135.8 degrees Fahrenheit in 2010.

U.S. News has compiled a selection of seven different Antarctic experiences to help you plan your bucket list adventure to the White Continent.

Book an Antarctica cruise on GoToSea , a service of U.S. News.

Atlas Ocean Voyages: 11-night Ushuaia Roundtrip

Courtesy of Atlas Ocean Voyages

This 11-night expedition with Atlas is available on several dates in 2024. One highlight of the voyage is crossing the Antarctic Circle, along with four days exploring Antarctica and two days spent in the South Shetland Islands. You'll also have two days en route to Antarctica and two days on the return trip on the famed Drake Passage – also known as the "Drake Lake" (on smooth days) or the "Drake Shake" (when the seas are rough).

During your days at sea, take in all the onboard lectures and films about Antarctica, and head outside on the decks to see petrels and albatrosses soaring overhead. This is the perfect opportunity to practice your photography skills before reaching the Antarctic Peninsula, where you want to take nothing but pictures and leave nothing but footprints.

Atlas' Jan. 14 expedition is on the line's newest ship, World Voyager. The purpose-built yacht-style vessel features a hydro-jet propulsion system that's quieter and less disruptive to the fragile ecosystem. This feature also provides the opportunity for guests to see more wildlife during up-close encounters. Pricing is all-inclusive on board the ship with free open bars; all meals, wines, spirits and craft beers; a stocked in-room minibar; all landings, Zodiac excursions and lectures; the use of kayaks, walking sticks, knee boots and binoculars; and a souvenir Atlas jacket to take home. Fares also include a one-night pre-cruise stay and private charter jet service round-trip from Buenos Aires to Ushuaia, Argentina.

Aurora Expeditions: Antarctic Peninsula in Depth

Tyson Mayr | Courtesy of Aurora Expeditions

Aurora offers a 14-night Antarctic intensive voyage sailing round-trip from Ushuaia on Nov. 6, 2024, aboard the 132-passenger purpose-built expedition ship Greg Mortimer. This vessel was the first passenger ship to utilize the state-of-the-art Ulstein X-BOW, which provides a smoother, quicker and more efficient transit across the ocean. The ship also incorporates many environmentally conscious features, including low energy consumption and virtual anchoring, which protects the sea floor and minimizes damage caused by traditional anchors.

Guests will find expansive observation decks and hydraulic viewing platforms for optimal wildlife viewing on board. Other highlights of the expedition are nine full days to explore the Antarctic Peninsula in nearly 24 hours of daylight at the peak of summer. During this time, you can expect to see whales arriving to feed on the plentiful krill, fur seal pups and many entertaining penguins.

Prices are mostly all-inclusive, with a one-night hotel stay before boarding the ship; all meals, snacks and complimentary nonalcoholic beverages; beer and house wine at lunch and dinner; the use of Muck Boots for the expedition; all shore excursions and Zodiac cruises; educational lectures; and more. Adventurous explorers can add on activities (at an additional cost) such as sea kayaking, snowshoeing, camping, and skiing or snowboarding. The line also offers longer 20- to 24-day expeditions that include South Georgia Island.

Read: Sustainable Cruises: The Top Lines Making Progress

Hurtigruten Expeditions: Antarctica, Patagonia and Chilean Fjords Expedition

Dan Avila | Courtesy of Hurtigruten Expeditions

For an extended adventure that includes crossing the Drake Passage twice, spending up to five days in Antarctica and then landing on Cape Horn in Chile (weather permitting), consider the 25-night grand expedition cruise aboard the Hutrigruten Expeditions' MS Roald Amundsen. Additional highlights are scenic cruising in Garibaldi Fjord in Alberto de Agostini National Park to see the Garibaldi Glacier; visiting the town of Puerto Natales, the gateway to Torres del Paine National Park ; and seeing the longest Southern Hemisphere glacier outside of Antarctica (which grows by as much as 150 feet a day), the Pio XI Glacier in Bernado O'Higgins National Park. This epic adventure begins March 9, 2024, in Buenos Aires and ends in Valparaíso, Chile.

The ship for the voyage, MS Roald Amundsen, is a hybrid vessel that reduces CO2 emissions by using electrical propulsion – and it's designed specifically for use in polar waters. The vessel carries just 500 guests (to adhere to regulations for visiting Antarctica) and features all exterior cabins with Scandinavian inspired decor. Guests will also find an Explorer lounge and bar, three dining venues, the Science Center, a sauna and spa, and other amenities. Fares are mostly all-inclusive, covering a complimentary expedition jacket; the use of expedition equipment like boots and trekking poles; landing activities; most dining options; and wine, beer and soft drinks at meals.

Lindblad Expeditions – National Geographic: Journey to Antarctica: The White Continent

Ralph Lee Hopkins | Courtesy of Lindblad Expeditions

Lindblad Expeditions was the first company to bring citizen explorers to Antarctica in 1966, pioneering travel to this remote destination. The line's 13-night expedition to Antarctica is offered nearly 20 times throughout the summer season in 2024 on one of three ships. Depending on the ship, guests will have one evening in either Buenos Aires or Santiago, Chile , before flying to Ushuaia the next morning to embark the vessel.

With about five days to explore Antarctica, you'll have time to take in the awe-inspiring landscapes and look for seals and blue-eyed shags up close from Zodiacs. On land, watch thousands of Adélie and gentoo penguins as they playfully slide down the snow-covered hills on their bellies – one right after the other – diving headfirst into the icy waters. After the adventure, a private charter flight will return you to either Buenos Aires or Santiago before your return flight home.

The line's newest expedition vessel, National Geographic Resolution, accommodates just 138 guests – and there are two new cabins for solo cruisers . Guests on the Polar Class 5 vessel will have a National Geographic photographer and a Lindblad-National Geographic-certified photo instructor and video chronicler documenting the trip. Onboard amenities include a yoga studio, a wellness specialist, infinity-style hot tubs, two restaurants and a chef's table, and plenty of indoor and outdoor viewing areas. This ship also carries an ROV (a remotely operated vehicle) for underwater exploration and other high-tech video gear.

You can even book an overnight stay in an igloo (on a first-come, first-served basis) and spend the evening under the polar sky. Fares are mostly all-inclusive and include all onboard meals and most meals ashore; nonalcoholic and alcoholic beverages; transfers; excursions; a complimentary jacket; and more.

Silversea: King George Island to King George Island (Antarctica Bridge)

Courtesy of Silversea

Silversea's six-night Antarctica Bridge expedition takes guests round-trip by a business class flight directly to the Antarctica Peninsula, flying into King George Island from Punta Arenas, Chile. This itinerary is offered several times throughout the season for guests who don't have extensive time to travel – or are nervous about sailing the Drake Passage. Silversea 's pricing is all-inclusive, and guests can choose between door-to-door or port-to-port fares.

While the weather determines the specific itinerary in Antarctica, guests can expect to have several excursions in the Antarctic Sound and as many as nine excursions on the Antarctic Peninsula that include hiking, kayaking and scenic Zodiac cruises with the expedition team. There's also one excursion in the South Shetland Islands, where you can look for massive elephant seals. There will be an abundance of bird and animal viewing on wildlife-rich King George Island, the largest of the South Shetland Islands, which is home to Adélie, chinstrap and gentoo penguins as well as Weddell and leopard seals.

Oceanwide Expeditions and Swoop Antarctica: Quest for the Emperor Penguins of Snow Hill Island

Getty Images

Swoop Antarctica's 10-night adventure-filled journey takes wildlife and history enthusiasts into the ice-choked waters of the Weddell Sea, past towering tabular icebergs, in search of the emperor penguin's rookery on Snow Hill: one of the most remote penguin rookeries on the planet. The incredible itinerary also sails through the same waters where famed Antarctic explorer Sir Ernest Shackleton's ship, the Endurance, sank in 1915 – and to the rarely seen west slopes of the Antarctic Sound.

Other highlights include Zodiac and helicopter landings (weather permitting) to additional remote locales, including Seymour Island, where the Swedish Antarctic Expedition of 1901 to 1904 spent a winter season; Brown Bluff, one of the most scenic places on the northern tip of the Antarctic Continent and home to a large Adélie penguin rookery; and the volcanic crater of Deception Island.

There are two sailings in November 2024 on board the 1A-class, ice-strengthened Oceanwide Expeditions' Ortelius: a 108-passenger former Russian research vessel. Fares includes all meals and nonalcoholic beverages, all Zodiac and shore excursions, educational lectures, helicopter transfers, and group transfers. Optional adventure activities, alcoholic beverages and other personal expenses are at an additional cost.

The onboard helicopter pad is one of the features of the vessel and is used on select expeditions in the Weddell and Ross seas. It's important to note that very few companies offer expeditions to the Weddell Sea that include Snow Hill Island. While Ortelius is not a luxury vessel like other ships mentioned in this list, it is a stable expedition-style ship built for these icy – and at times treacherous – waters and weather conditions.

Viking: Antarctica & South Georgia Island

Courtesy of Viking

Viking's 18-night Antarctica and South Georgia Island expedition begins with an overnight stay in Buenos Aires followed by a flight the next morning to Ushuaia, the southernmost city in the world. The first two stops on the expedition are in the Falkland Islands, where you'll find beautiful scenery with imposing cliffs, many types of marine birds and five species of penguins. In South Georgia, watch for king penguins and seals. Then, it's on to Antarctica for days 12 through 16. Guests will have the option to reserve a spot on the Viking DNV-classed submarine for a thrilling journey into the depths of the frigid waters in Antarctica. The return sailing, by way of the Drake Passage, disembarks in Ushuaia.

In 2024, this itinerary is available Jan. 31 and again Dec. 15 on Viking Octantis. The purpose-built Polar Class 6 vessel accommodates up to 378 guests and offers many of the same venues found on Viking's ocean ships, including the Explorers' Lounge, World Café, Mamsen's, Manfredi's Italian Restaurant and the Nordic Spa. There are also expedition-specific features, such as Expedition Central, the Science Lab and – for educational lectures and briefings – the Aula theater. Viking's fares are mostly all-inclusive, with all meals and wine and beer served with lunch and dinner; 24-hour specialty teas, coffees and nonalcoholic beverages; a keepsake Viking jacket; complimentary use of the excursion gear; and more.

Find an Antarctica cruise on GoToSea.

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Expert tips on Antarctica expeditions

There are many factors to consider when planning an Antarctica expedition, including where you want to travel to, the length of the trip and whether you want to sail the famed Drake Passage twice.

To provide helpful insights and information to plan your trip, U.S. News reached out to an expert in the region, Aurora Expeditions' expedition leader, Ashley Perrin , for tips on planning your adventure to the White Continent. Perrin has degrees in both geography and oceanography from the University of Southampton. She was appointed as the first woman boating officer in Antarctica by the British Antarctic Survey in 2009, and has led multiple expeditions to Antarctica, South Georgia and the Falklands.

Which month is best (in your opinion) to travel to Antarctica and why? 

Perrin: "My favorite time to travel to Antarctica is the end of December or beginning of January, because the penguin chicks are starting to come out and you get the most wildlife spotting opportunities, with marine mammals, penguins and albatross – on top of the spectacular scenery."

What length of trip do you recommend for first-time visitors?

Perrin: "The 10- to 12-day Spirit of Antarctica or Antarctic Explorer (with Aurora Expeditions) is a fantastic introduction to the Antarctic Peninsula. If you had the additional time and opportunity, ideally you would also opt for a voyage that visits South Georgia. For many travelers, this is really the jewel in the crown of the Antarctic experience because of the incredible wildlife opportunities here."

What should you look for in an expedition ship/tour when planning a trip to Antarctica?

Perrin: "Travelers should look for a high-quality educational experience, including lectures and opportunities for Citizen Science. This is such a fascinating and important destination, and you want to ensure you can learn and take as much in as you can. A pivotal factor in this is also choosing a company that offers low passenger numbers.

"Travelers don't have enough of an understanding of the impact of this on their voyage. In the Antarctic Peninsula only 100 people are allowed on land at one time, while at some sites it is 30 to 50 people. Having smaller groups enables passengers to have more time off ship exploring and connecting with nature, and this has such a significant impact on your experience.

"If you like to be a little more active, I would also highly recommend an operator that offers activities, such as kayaking in Antarctica. This allows you to see Antarctica from a different viewpoint and the silence is amazing. You still have opportunities to do landings as well, so I think it's the best of both worlds."

Do you prefer the combination fly/sail for the Drake Passage or sailing the Drake Passage both ways?

Perrin: "I prefer to sail both ways as it's how you earn your right to get to Antarctica! You also get more opportunities to see wildlife like seabirds, and it gives you extra time to prepare for the Antarctic experience through pre-lectures and education. Travelers arrive with more of an understanding of what to expect."

Any other tips, advice or comments you'd like to share?

Perrin: "Do your research into the operator you are choosing and their different offerings – things like passenger numbers, expedition team experience and off ship activities – as these can all have a significant impact on the travel experience. There is also a big difference between traditional cruise operators and expedition operators and what travelers can expect. We ensure that our passengers are exploring and getting off the ship as much as possible.

"I would also add that it's important to do your research into the areas that you're most interested in. For example, it could be history, exploration and walking in someone's footsteps (such as Sir Ernest Shackleton), or the types of wildlife you might see. Having a deeper understanding of the history and the region really does enhance the experience once you are there."

Frequently Asked Questions

An expedition where you get off the ship and make landings on the Antarctic peninsula typically costs about $10,000 per person for a 10-night voyage. However, depending on the cruise line, the ship and dates of travel – and whether you sail or fly the Drake Passage – you could spend as much as $29,000 per person for a 12-night expedition or more. There are slightly lower prices for some expeditions, such as a few with Hurtigruten Expeditions, and you can find reduced fares and deals with lines like Atlas Ocean Voyages and Quark Expeditions. In addition, there are extended polar expeditions that range from a 14-night trip to the 94-night Pole-to-Pole Ultimate Bucket List Expedition Cruise with Hurtigruten Expeditions, which is priced at close to $48,000.

If you're not interested in getting off the ship in Antarctica to see penguins and seals up close (but no closer than 15 feet, according to the Antarctic Treaty), you can opt for a voyage on a large cruise ship that sails around the continent for a much lower cost. Just know that you won't be able to disembark at any point in Antarctica. For example, Norwegian Cruise Line has a 14-night Antarctica and South America voyage that makes a round trip from Buenos Aires, Argentina, for as low as $999 per person. You may be able to find even cheaper fares from lines such as Celebrity Cruises or Princess Cruises.

It's important to note that by the rules set forth in the Antarctic Treaty, only ships carrying 500 or less passengers are permitted to make landings on the Antarctica peninsula. The Antarctic Treaty, along with the International Association of Antarctica Tour Operators, has strict conservation protocols and regulates that no more than 100 passengers are allowed to go ashore at one time. The IAATO works with more than 100 Antarctica outfitters to create the guidelines and safety procedures to protect the fragile environment and wildlife in this remote part of the world.

The following cruise lines offer small ship expeditions in Antarctica with no more than 500 passengers. You can also look at tour companies – such as Abercrombie & Kent, G Adventures, Adventure Life and Swoop Antarctica – that exclusively charter ships or help navigate the decision-making process for their clients and book individual expeditions with the cruise lines.

• Atlas Ocean Voyages
• Aurora Expeditions
• Hapag-Lloyd Cruises
• Hurtigruten Expeditions
• Lindblad Expeditions – National Geographic
• Quark Expeditions
• Scenic Luxury Cruises & Tours
• Seabourn Cruise Line

These larger cruise lines offer sailings around the Antarctic Peninsula, which may include scenic cruising in and around the Gerlache Strait, Elephant Island, Paradise Bay and Schollart Channel.

• Celebrity Cruises
• Holland America Line
• Norwegian Cruise Line
• Oceania Cruises
• Princess Cruises
• Regent Seven Seas Cruises
• Royal Caribbean International

The answer depends on the expedition. The majority of passengers will depart from South America in either Ushuaia, Argentina – which is also known as the "End of the World" – or Punta Arenas, Chile. Then it will take approximately two days to cross the Drake Passage to reach the Antarctic Peninsula. Some lines also offer chartered flights from Punta Arenas to Antarctica, which only take about two hours. Some passengers who have taken the flight say it can be as unnerving as sailing the Drake Passage, since weather conditions can delay the flight for up to several days where you could potentially miss the trip.

Cruises on larger ships that only sail around the Antarctic Peninsula may embark in Buenos Aires; Santiago, Chile; Puerto Williams, Chile; Rio de Janeiro; ports in Florida or New Zealand; or even the South Shetland Islands.

The expedition and cruise season to Antarctica extends from November to March, which is during the austral summer in the Southern Hemisphere. But Antarctica is still the windiest, coldest and driest continent on Earth, so weather conditions are unpredictable and can change quickly – even during the summertime. One minute the sun may be out, and the next minute it can be snowing and extremely windy and cloudy.

Visitors in November can expect temperatures between a low of 25 degrees to a high of 32 degrees Fahrenheit. The warmest temperatures are typically in January, when you'll find days ranging between 33 to 36 degrees before they start to drop again in February.

Most expedition companies provide jackets that you can take home, so you won't need to bring a heavy parka if it's given to you on board. They may also provide waterproof boots that you'll need to use for wet landings. It's best to check with your expedition line to see what's available on the ship, what you can rent or buy, and what you'll need to pack and bring with you. Due to the unpredictable weather, it's advisable to bring different types of layers.

Here are some of the items you'll want to pack:

Layers: Pack at least two top and two bottom quick-drying base layers (or more, depending on the length of your expedition) that wick moisture, such as those made of silk, wool or bamboo. It does get toasty when you're layered up and moving around ashore, so choose lightweight options that will layer easily under the rest of your clothing and keep you warm and dry. For your mid-layer top, go with a lightweight polar fleece or vest; for the bottom, quick-drying warm tights or fleece pants are a good option.

You'll also want to layer what's on your feet, starting with a wicking pair of socks made from silk or synthetic polypropylene, followed by a good pair of merino wool socks from a brand like Smartwool. Glove liners are another must, especially if your hands tend to get cold. If you can, buy insulated waterproof gloves with removable liners to save packing an extra item. You may also want to toss a few hand and foot warmers in the suitcase in case you need extra warmth. Bring a lighter pair of insulated gloves for warmer days off the ship.

And don't forget a lined wool beanie, a set of earmuffs, and a balaclava or fleece neck gaiter to keep your ears and face warm and your nose and mouth protected from the cold air and wind.

Waterproof gear: The parka and tall waterproof boots may be provided on the ship, but if they're not, you'll need to bring your own. You'll also need wind- and waterproof pants to go over your base layer and mid-layers. If they're tapered at the bottom, you should be able to tuck them into your boots. Perrin says this is one of the most important items you should purchase and pack for your expedition.

Comfy clothes ­and shoes for around the ship: Most people dress casual on Antarctica cruises, so bring clothes that will be comfortable for days and evenings around the ship. It can get rough when crossing the Drake Passage, so you'll want flat or low-heeled shoes for those days at sea.

Other items you'll want to pack:

• Waterproof dry pack
• Sea-Bands and medications for motion sickness
• Camera and accessories with a waterproof cover
• Hiking poles (unless the ship has them available)
• Swimsuit (you may want to take the polar plunge!)
• Other necessary medications
• Hydrating lip balm and a good protective moisturizer
• Polarized sunglasses
• Books on the history of early exploration in Antarctica and the incredible wildlife

Why Trust U.S. News Travel

Gwen Pratesi has been an avid cruiser since her early 20s. She has sailed on nearly every type of cruise ship built, including the newest megaships, paddle-wheelers on the Mississippi River, and an 18-stateroom river ship on the Mekong River in Vietnam and Cambodia. She has also cruised on a traditional masted sailing ship and on a small luxury expedition vessel in Antarctica crossing the notorious Drake Passage twice. Pratesi covers the travel and culinary industries for major publications including U.S. News & World Report.

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Best Antarctica cruise ships: 11 stylish expedition vessels exploring the White Continent

There's never been a better time to travel to Antarctica -- at least when it comes to getting there in comfort and style.

The last few years have brought a stunning new crop of small "expedition" cruise vessels specifically designed for Antarctica sailings that are far more upscale and elegant than anything seen before.

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Built by longtime leaders in polar cruising such as Lindblad Expeditions and Hurtigruten Expeditions, as well as a few newcomers to the niche, these are vessels that are more spacious, more amenity-filled and more stable than Antarctica cruise ships of old -- and they're fundamentally changing the way travelers are experiencing the destination.

The best Antarctica cruise ships: Then and now

Tourists have been visiting Antarctica in small numbers since 1966, when adventure tour pioneer Lars-Eric Lindblad led a small group of "citizen scientists" to the Antarctic Peninsula on a chartered Argentine navy ship. But for many of the 56 years since then, a trip to Antarctica has meant a sailing on a relatively spartan vessel.

Like Lindblad's chartered navy ship, many of the early vessels used for tourism to the White Continent were tough-built government or scientific ships that were designed with navigating icy areas but not necessarily comfort in mind.

Related: An untamed world: Discovery the wild dreamscape of Antarctica

My first voyage to Antarctica, back in 2004, for instance, was on Akademik Ioffe -- a hardy, ice-class Russian oceanographic research vessel that was often chartered by adventure tour companies in those days for polar trips. I slept in a no-frills cabin originally designed for Russian oceanography researchers and ate with my fellow tourgoers in a cafeteria-like dining space. The crew mostly spoke Russian.

A lot has changed since then -- mostly in the last couple of years.

The new crop of vessels being built for Antarctica sailings have all the creature comforts that travelers have come to expect on cruise vessels in other parts of the world, including spacious and upscale cabins, often with balconies; elegant eateries with diverse menus; spas and fitness centers; and even pools and deck-top hot tubs.

Some of the fanciest of the newcomers also have such over-the-top amenities as helicopters for sightseeing from above and submarines for seeing what lurks just under the water. At the very high end, some ships feature all-suite accommodations with butler service.

In all cases, these are ships specifically built for "expedition cruising" -- a type of cruising that involves traveling to remote, hard-to-reach places on small, hardy vessels that carry their own landing craft. All of them sail with a large number of rigid inflatable Zodiac boats for landings and have strengthened hulls and other design features that let them operate in icy areas.

I've sailed on nearly all of these new vessels, in many cases in polar regions, and have been consistently amazed by just how much of an upgrade they really are.

Here, my picks for the 11 best new expedition cruise ships sailing to Antarctica:

National Geographic Endurance and National Geographic Resolution

Operator: Lindblad Expeditions.

These Lindblad Expeditions ships may be my favorite all-around picks for an Antarctica cruise. Sailing since July and November 2021, respectively, National Geographic Endurance and National Geographic Resolution each are designed to hold no more than 126 passengers -- a notably low number that allows for an intimate experience when exploring the White Continent.

They're also very stable ships, thanks to an unusual new sloping bow design -- something that can make a big difference when sailing to and from Antarctica across the notoriously rough Drake Passage.

Lindblad was the original pioneer of tourist trips to Antarctica, and it has years of experience in the region that has helped shape the way it designed these nearly identical vessels, both specifically built for polar travel.

Each of the ships has a polar class rating of PC 5 Category A (a notch above many Antarctica vessels), allowing them to travel through icy areas with ease. They're also loaded with observation areas for viewing the passing scenery. They carry kayaks, snowshoes and cross-country skis for polar exploring in addition to Zodiac boats for landings, and they have remotely operated vehicles -- just in case you want to see what's going on down below.

Each vessel has two glass-walled "igloos" on its top deck where passengers can spend the night under the stars. Comfortable, state-of-the-art rooms with balconies; stylish restaurants and lounges with upscale, Scandinavian-inspired decor; a spa; and a yoga studio with wall-to-wall windows round out the onboard experience.

Related: I just spent the night in an igloo in Antarctica -- here's how you can, too

The details: Fares for 11-night Antarctica cruises on the two vessels start at $16,780 per person, based on double occupancy. Fares include a pre-cruise, one-night hotel stay in Buenos Aires, Argentina, or Santiago, Chile; flights from Buenos Aires or Santiago to Ushuaia, Argentina; drinks, including spirits and wines; and prepaid gratuities.

Note that as part of a 3-year-old partnership between Hyatt and Lindblad, World of Hyatt members can pay for a Lindblad cruise using Hyatt points — or earn 5 base points per dollar on eligible spending (excluding incidentals), plus the standard bonuses for Hyatt elite members, as well as elite tier-qualifying night credits. All members — regardless of status — will enjoy a $250 onboard credit to use on incidentals.

World Navigator

Operator: Atlas Ocean Voyages.

Just unveiled in August 2021, World Navigator is the first vessel for Atlas Ocean Voyages , an all-new cruise operator that's focused on "luxe adventure" trips -- and it's already high on my list of favorite ships for polar exploring.

Like the Lindblad vessels, it's designed to carry relatively few passengers (up to 184 on Antarctica sailings) and is loaded with indoor and outdoor observation areas including an innovative, close-to-the-waterline outside deck area with heated seating called The Water's Edge. High-tech touches include a GPS that lets it hover in sensitive areas without dropping anchor.

Built tough for polar exploring (it has a PC 6 rating, one notch below the Lindblad vessels), it also is designed to be upscale with elegant, 1940s-influenced decor, such pampering touches as a L'Occitane spa (the first at sea) and butler service in the top cabins.

Related: First look at World Navigator, a stylish new adventure ship

World Navigator is the first of five nearly identical sister vessels that Atlas Ocean Voyages will roll out by late 2024, many of which will sail regularly to Antarctica.

The details: Nine-night voyages to Antarctica start at $10,499 per person, based on double occupancy. Fares include drinks, including spirits and fine wines; shipboard Wi-Fi; prepaid gratuities; and emergency medical evacuation insurance for every passenger (the latter being a rare offering among companies cruising to Antarctica).

Roald Amundsen and Fridtjof Nansen

Operator: Hurtigruten Expeditions.

Hurtigruten Expeditions, a Norway-based expedition cruise company, has a long and storied history in polar travel, so it's no surprise that the company broke new ground in the polar cruising niche when it unveiled the 528-passenger Roald Amundsen and sister ship Fridtjof Nansen in 2019 and 2021, respectively.

Named after famous Norwegian polar explorers, the ships are the cruise industry's first to run on electric hybrid engines. This not only saves fuel but also allows for noiseless operation in sensitive polar areas where silence can make all the difference (near a penguin rookery, for instance, or a calving glacier).

Other unusual features include a full-blown science center with state-of-the-art gadgets and underwater drones for passenger use.

Related: These 8 books are must-reads before an Antarctica trip

Both of these vessels sail with a maximum of 500 passengers when operating in Antarctica, which is on the high side for an Antarctic-based vessel. If you're eager to make a lot of landings in Antarctica during a trip to the continent, Hurtigruten's newest ships may not be the best choice. With Antarctic regulations limiting landings to 100 people at a time, these ships only can land a small fraction of their passengers at any given time.

For that reason, I am partial to the older but more intimate Hurtigruten polar vessel Fram, which carries just 200 passengers when operating in Antarctica. But Roald Amundsen and Fridtjof Nansen have one big advantage versus that ship and many others operating in Antarctica, which is that their starting rates for trips to the region are significantly lower. As bigger ships, they also may feel more stable at times.

The details: Fares for 11-night Antarctica cruises start at $7,334 per person, based on double occupancy. Fares include a pre-cruise, one-night hotel stay in Buenos Aires; round-trip flights from Buenos Aires to Ushuaia; beer and wine with meals; and free Wi-Fi.

Scenic Eclipse

Operator: Scenic Luxury Cruises & Tours.

Unveiled in 2019, this super-swanky, 228-passenger "discovery yacht" was the first oceangoing vessel for luxury purveyor Scenic Luxury Cruises & Tours -- a brand better known for river cruises.

Like Scenic river ships, Scenic Eclipse is a high-end vessel with all-suite accommodations (and we're talking real suites, with separate living rooms), butler service for all and a wide range of onboard dining options including a sushi restaurant. It has a whiskey bar stocked with more than 110 whiskies and other high-end liquors, plus a spa and a yoga studio.

Scenic Eclipse also was the first Antarctica-bound cruise vessel to boast helicopters to take passengers on epic (and pricey) Antarctica excursions -- and it has a submarine for underwater exploring, too. Having experienced a helicopter excursion from the vessel, I can say that it's truly a once-in-a-lifetime experience.

On the downside, the helicopter pad and hangars eat up a lot of space on the vessel's top deck, as do the suites along the vessel's sharply sloping front. The combination leaves less available room for observation areas. The result is a ship with less outdoor space for viewing scenery than is typical for small vessels operating polar trips.

The details: Fares for 12-night Antarctica trips start at $15,655 per person, based on double occupancy. Fares include a pre-cruise, one-night hotel stay in Buenos Aires; round-trip flights from Buenos Aires to Ushuaia; drinks, including spirits and fine wines; and prepaid gratuities.

Le Soleal, Le Boreal, Le Lyrial and L'Austral

Operator: Ponant.

Launched between 2010 and 2015, these four sister ships are regular visitors to Antarctica -- both under the banner of Ponant, a French brand, and as vessels chartered to high-end, U.S.-based tour companies Tauck and Abercrombie & Kent.

A pioneer in polar travel, Ponant has a long tradition of operating voyages to Antarctica, and this series of ship was specially designed for such trips. They all are hardy (with 1C ice class ratings from Lloyd's Register) but also stylish, with contemporary interiors and comfortable rooms.

Note that the onboard ambiance of these vessels sometimes can be significantly different depending on whether they are sailing on a trip marketed by Ponant (where announcements and onboard programming will be in both French and English, with many of the passengers being French-speakers) or by Tauck or Abercrombie & Kent (where the onboard experience will have a much more distinctly American vibe).

Related: This new luxury tour gets you to Antarctica faster than most

In September 2021, Ponant unveiled an even tougher polar vessel, the 270-passenger Le Commandant Charcot. Equipped with ice breaking capabilities, it's able to sail to polar areas that most other polar cruise vessels can't reach. Note that, currently, its Antarctica sailings are being mostly marketed by Ponant itself, which means they may draw mostly French-speaking travelers.

The details: Fares for 11-night Antarctica trips start at $11,350 per person, based on double occupancy. Fares include a pre-cruise, one-night hotel stay in Buenos Aires; and round-trip flights from Buenos Aires to Ushuaia.

Viking Octantis

Operator: Viking.

Just unveiled in early 2022, Viking Octantis is fast-growing Viking's first-ever expedition cruise ship, and it boasts some unusual features that make it one of the best cruise ships for exploring Antarctica.

Most notable is The Hangar, an enclosed marina that allows passengers to transfer to small Zodiac boats for landings while still in the protected interior of the ship. It's a first for an expedition cruise ship.

Viking Octantis also has what may be the most stunning lecture hall ever at sea. Located at the back of the vessel, the high-tech room has sliding walls behind the spot where lecturers will stand that can open to reveal the surrounding scenery through floor-to-ceiling glass.

Viking Octantis is designed to carry 378 passengers, which is on the high side for Antarctica cruise ships. Like Hurtigruten's Roald Amundsen and Fridtjof Nansen, it isn't able to land all or even most of its passengers at once in Antarctica.

Like Scenic Eclipse, Viking Octantis carries a submarine for underwater exploring, as well as kayaks. In a first for polar expedition cruise vessels, every cabin has floor-to-ceiling glass walls that slide partially open from the top to create a balcony-like feel. Public areas feature the same elegant Scandinavian design found on Viking's ocean ships and river ships, as well as such familiar Viking venues as Italian restaurant Manfredi's and a top-of-the-ship, glass-walled Explorers' Lounge.

A sister vessel to Viking Octantis, Viking Polaris, will debut in August 2022 and also will sail to polar regions.

The details: Fares for 12-night Antarctica trips start at $13,995 per person, based on occupancy. Fares include a pre-cruise, one-night hotel stay in Buenos Aires; beer and wine with lunch and dinner; and shipboard Wi-Fi.

Planning an Antarctica cruise expedition? Start with these stories:

• Dreaming of Antarctica: How to book the trip of a lifetime
• Skip the Drake Passage: What it's like flying to Antarctica on a chartered plane
• 7 tips for visiting Antarctica before it's too late
• The ultimate packing list for an Antarctica trip

Antarctica Cruises & Tours

Explore Antarctica on an out-of-this-world adventure 

With us, it’s good trips only. And as far as good old-fashioned adventures go, this is the big one. You’ll cross the infamous Drake Passage and set foot on the Antarctic Peninsula. Explore ice-dotted bays by Zodiac. Marvel at waddling gentoo penguins and spot migrating blue whales. The reasons why you should visit Antarctica are endless. By traveling with us, you'll experience this incredible part of the world in a way that builds human connection and gets closer to nature while respecting the environment. 

'Antarctic cruises' doesn't really do it justice. These are Antarctic adventures. 

Our Antarctica trips

The ocean endeavour: inside our expedition ship.

The Ocean Endeavour, is built tough to withstand even the harshest conditions, yet provides additional comforts like warm, 3-course meals, spacious common areas and extra amenities – including our day spa. With an enviable 1:8 crew-to-passenger ratio, you’ll enjoy a more personal, informative and comfortable trip. 

Why choose us

Our Ocean Endeavour is built tough; designed to handle the harsh Antarctic wilderness with ease while ensuring your safety at every step of the adventure.

Our experienced expedition team are at the top of their fields. You’ll find out everything you want to know from our Antarctic experts, including naturalists and ornithologists.  

We don’t call them hands-on, feet-on adventures for nothing. Get closer to the action with, not one, but two daily excursions on land and, via Zodiacs, at sea. 

Our onboard creature comforts will warm you up after your Antarctic outings. Expect 3-course meals, 24/7 tea and coffee and fascinating evening seminars.  

We’re committed to providing the highest safety standards, which is why the Ocean Endeavour, and all our operations teams undergo regular safety audits.

We’re deeply committed to being a responsible business and take considered steps to minimize our impact, support vital research and promote conservation in the Antarctic.  

Antarctica tour reviews

Filter by rating

Journey to the Antarctic Circle (Ocean Endeavour)

Articles of Antarctica

Around the world at 80 years with Intrepid travellers Bob and Herry-Bear

Giant daisies, polar bears and a full circle moment: how Liz Carlson is living out all of our wildest dreams 

My trip to Antarctica was like grown-up summer camp at sea 

12 hours in the shoes (or muck boots) of a traveller visiting Antarctica  

When your day job is leading expeditions to the bottom of the earth in Antarctica 

Globetrotters share what it’s like to spend your birthday with Intrepid

This is what it’s like to collaborate with real scientists in Antarctica

Everything you need to know about the Ocean Endeavour

Antarctica Optional Experiences

Antarctica Camping

Antarctica Kayaking Adventures

Antarctica Snowshoeing

Antarctica photography

Antarctica Day Paddle

Antarctica Stand-up Paddleboarding

Extend your adventure

Beyond the Ocean Endeavour

Popular regions

Antarctica at a glance.

(UTC+13:00) New Zealand

CALLING CODE

Electricity.

Type A (North American/Japanese 2-pin) Type B (American 3-pin)

Learn more about Antarctica

Eating and drinking.

Eating and drinking in Antarctica is done aboard your expedition ship, with all meals provided for the duration of your journey. Tea and coffee, as well as soft drinks and juices, are ready to greet you when you come back from a shore landing and at meal times, while alcoholic beverages are also available, but for an additional price.

Breakfasts and lunches tend to be buffet style, while dinners are typically served tableside and usually feature three courses. The range of food is diverse, with professional chefs preparing a wide selection of gourmet dishes, and a vegetarian option is always included. Afternoon tea, with pastries or cookies, is also provided every day.

If you have any dietary requirements or food allergies, please let us know before the trip starts. If you have a more restrictive dietary requirement (vegan, gluten intolerance, fructose intolerance, etc) it is likely you can be catered for. Unfortunately, we are unable to cater for a kosher diet.

There may not be any stores on the Antarctic Peninsula, but that doesn't mean you can't do any shopping. The Ocean Endeavour has its very own polar boutique equipped with every little knickknack and thingamabob you might need to help commemorate your journey to the seventh continent (think all the essentials, clothing and souvenirs).

Geography and environment

Encompassed by the Antarctic convergence (an uneven line of latitude where the cold waters of the Antarctic merge with the warmer waters of the world's oceans), Antarctica is both cold and remote, located in the Southern Hemisphere. Due to its south-polar position, the Antarctic continent is covered in ice and experiences very harsh conditions unsuitable for permanent human residency.

While plenty of animals live in Antarctica (such as various species of whale, penguin, seal and bird), there are very few humans that call Antarctica home, instead using the region as a base for research. There are no cities in Antarctica but there are several research stations positioned on the continent belonging to various countries like Russia, the United States and Australia.

History and government

Antarctica was formed around 35 million years ago and remained undiscovered until around 1820 when Russian explorers spotted the mainland. However, this may have only been the first documented discovery of Antarctica, as it's believed that Pacific Islanders may have reached the white continent in 650 AD.

There were many attempts to set foot at the South Pole in the early 20th century, so much so that it was dubbed the 'Heroic Age of Antarctic Exploration', with many trying and failing until a Norwegian explorer by the name of Roald Amundsen reached in 1911. Exploration didn't stop there though with a total of 17 major expeditions launched in the following years from 10 different countries, the last one being Ernest Shackleton's last ill-fated voyage in 1917.

Antarctica isn't owned by one single country, instead governed internationally through the Antarctic Treaty system signed in 1959 by 12 countries who had sent scientists to Antarctica during and around that time. These countries included Argentina, Australia, France, Japan, New Zealand, the United States, and the United Kingdom.

Further reading

Antarctica travel faqs, where is antarctica.

Antarctica refers to the seventh continent of the world and is largely situated in the Antarctic Circle - a line of latitude sitting at around 66.5° south of the equator - at the base of the globe.

The Antarctic refers to the region made up of south polar zones that include the seas and some outlying islands. 

What country is Antarctica in?

Antarctica isn't part of one single country, rather it is a continent governed under a series of recognized guidelines and agreements called the Antarctic Treaty System.

What are the possible landing sites in Antarctica?

Each expedition includes stops at various landing sites around the Antarctic, but when and for how long you stop often depends on the weather, sea ice and wildlife movement. 

What types of animals live in Antarctica?

While Antarctica may not be hospitable to human life, there are plenty of animal species that call the seventh continent their home. This includes penguins, whales, sea birds, seals, and more. 

What is it like travelling solo on a cruise to Antarctica?

While you can't embark on an expedition to the world's seventh continent alone, you can travel solo on a group tour to Antarctica.

This means you'll still have plenty of free time to do your own thing (and use the ship's excellent amenities) but also have the comfort of knowing expert leaders are handling the pesky logistics.

You can also choose from a variety of accommodation arrangements, from single cabins to room-sharing, depending on your preference. 

When is the best time to visit Antarctica?

Antarctica is best visited in the summer months from November to March when the weather is warmer and the sea ice has melted enough to get closer to the island shore.

What is the weather like in Antarctica?

The climate in Antarctica is the coldest one on Earth with cold summers and freezing winters. The warmest month is January with averages of around 50°F.

What do I wear in Antarctica?

You have to be prepared and thorough when packing for Antarctica due to its remote location. Make sure you bring lots of layers, gloves, sunscreen, and moisturizer among other items.

Is there internet, wi-fi, email or telephone access available on the ships?

Internet access is available on most Antarctic ships, at a cost. Alternatively, there may be a ship-based email system where you will have an email account to stay in touch with family and friends. Because of the remoteness of Antarctica, connections can be slow, so all ships charge for data used rather than time spent online. Please refer to your detailed pre-departure information for more information on Internet facilities on your ship.

Will my cell phone work in Antarctica? 

Your cell phone will not work during your Antarctica cruise as the continent is still considered extremely remote and doesn't have the right telecommunication infrastructure in place.

Can my family and friends contact me while I’m on board in the case of an emergency at home?

Yes. There is a number to call the ship and you can purchase data for the wi-fi onboard, although the connection is intermittent and not to be relied on.

How do I choose an Antarctic cruise?

Deciding on the Antarctic cruise that suits you best comes down to figuring out the time of year you want to go, the itinerary, and how long you want the cruise to be.

How much does a cruise to Antarctica cost?

The cost of an Antarctica cruise largely depends on the departure date, the length of the cruise and the type of cabin you book on the ship, but most cruises start from USD$7,000.

How fit do I need to be to travel to Antarctica?

While the destination itself might conjure up images of nefarious voyages only the fittest can endure, you only need to be in good health and be able to move around freely to participate in and enjoy Antarctica's numerous activities and adventures.

If you have an average fitness level (and above) you are compatible with Antarctica travel, so you don't need to spend hours in the gym before considering booking a trip. 

How do we meet our responsible travel targets in Antarctica?

This question is something we thought long and hard about before deciding to run our own ship in Antarctica. We’re deeply committed to being a responsible business and understanding the impact we have on the places we visit. All Intrepid trips are  100% carbon neutral , but we are driven to do more, from committing to science-based decarbonisation targets to and recently updating our  Seven-point Climate Action Plan . 

We’ve approached responsible travel in Antarctica with three areas of focus that we believe will create the greatest positive impact: inspiring travellers, supporting science and protecting the environment. 

Does my trip to Antarctica support The Intrepid Foundation?

Yes, all Intrepid trips support the Intrepid Foundation. In fact, we make a donation on behalf of every traveller. Trips to Antarctica directly support our foundation partner, WWF.

WWF-Australia is a well-established conservation organisation helping protect our natural environment. Donations from our trips help their pioneering whale research and conservation efforts to establish marine protected areas around Antarctica and save whale species from extinction. 

Intrepid will double the impact by dollar-matching all post-trip donations made to The Intrepid Foundation.

Want to learn more about Antarctica?

Want more of a taste of what an adventure to the Great White Continent would be like? Our free guidebook shows you what wildlife you might see, the places you might go, how to be a responsible traveler, gives you tips on what to pack and more.  

Full list of Antarctica FAQs

If your question hasn't been answered,   read our full list of Antarctica FAQs   or contact us.

Can’t find what you’re looking for or want to know more? You can  contact us  24 hours 7 days a week, with any burning (or shall we say freezing?) questions. Our Antarctic specialists are here to help.

Best Antarctica Cruises & Cruise Lines

As a leading authority of  Antarctica cruises , we are often asked “What is the best Antarctica cruise?” Or “What is the Best Antarctic cruise line?” Below is our answer—a list of the best cruise lines that go to Antarctica. We profile each Antarctic tour company and why you should consider cruising with them.

More important than finding the best Antarctic cruise is finding the right operator, ship and trip for you. Our experts know the differences between cruise lines, ships and polar regions. We will help match you with the perfect fit. See our list below then contact us to find the best small ship Antarctica cruise for you.

IN THIS POST – Best Cruises to Antarctica: Antarctica 21 Antarpply Expeditions Aurora Expeditions G Adventures Intrepid Travel Lindblad Expeditions Oceanwide Expeditions Polar Latitudes Ponant Poseidon Expeditions Quark Expeditions Selecting the Best Antarctic Cruise Our Recommendations More Resources

FIND YOUR BEST CRUISE

Jump to the top 6 cruises that showcase these best Antarctica cruise lines, or view them all.

The Best Antarctica Cruises

The logistics of operating cruises in Antarctica are formidable and not to be taken lightly. These Antarctica travel companies are the best in the business. Each cruise company is committed to safety, service, guest experience and environmental stewardship. We are proud to partner with the best Antarctica cruise lines in the world. Wondering what cruise lines go to Antarctica? Your answer is below (in alphabetical order):

Antarctica 21

Antarctica 21 , an Antarctica only cruise line based in Punta Arenas, Chile, pioneered the concept of air cruises to Antarctica . This innovative concept of combining flights from Chile to the Antarctic Peninsula gave birth to an entire industry. Since their first cruises in 2003, many polar operators have copied the idea. In 2019 they applied their cumulative experience to design, build and launch the Magellan Explorer , custom built their Antarctic Air Cruise .

Why Cruise with Antarctica21

The logistics of operating a fly-and-cruise program in Antarctica are enormous. Antarctica21 has the right mix of strategic partnerships, operational experience and exceptional leadership that it takes to be at the forefront of this unique niche in expedition travel. More than an Antarctic cruise line, they are an air cruise institution. Of all the cruise lines that go to Antarctica, they are the fly cruise specialists. A21 is the best Antarctica air cruise option.

VIEW ALL ANTARCTICA AIR CRUISES

See the full list of itinerary options, plus reviews.

Antarpply Expeditions

Based in Ushuaia, Argentina, and operating only one ship of the same name, Antarpply Expeditions offers some of the most intimate and affordable Antarctic cruises available. Originally built for the United States agency NOAA (National Oceanic & Atmospheric Administration), the 90-guest Ushuaia is one of the smallest ships operating in Antarctica .

Why Cruise with Antarpply Expeditions

Antarpply keeps operations simple and straightforward, with one ship currently sailing all their itineraries. This offers guests a consistent onboard experience, with more specialized operational touches that only a small Antarctica cruise company, and a small ship like the Ushuaia, can provide. Antarpply is among the best Antarctica tour companies for affordability.

Aurora Expeditions

With a history of pushing the boundaries of expedition travel, Aurora Expeditions is known for pioneering several activities such as scuba diving and climbing in Antarctica. Indeed, they distinguish themselves from other small cruise lines by their selection and quality of extensive off-vessel activity options. They were the first adventure cruise company to introduce a passenger vessel, the Greg Mortimer , featuring Ulstein X-Bow technology. 

Why Cruise with Aurora Expeditions

Choose to cruise with Aurora Expeditions for more extensive adventure such as camping, sea kayaking, snowshoeing, ski and snowboard touring, scuba diving, snorkeling, trekking, ice climbing and stand-up paddleboarding. Aurora is also a certified B Corporation, 100% climate neutral, and their Sustainability in Action program features reduced fuel consumption and single-use plastics, women in conservation, environmental volunteer projects, and eco-friendly products aboard and in the office.

VIEW ALL ANTARCTICA CRUISES

Intrepid Travel

Intrepid has been an industry leader for over 30 years, using travel as a force for good. They are the largest travel industry B Corporation, and they’ve been raising standards since 2018, creating benefits for all stakeholders: travelers, staff, suppliers, shareholders, and the environments and communities they visit. The Intrepid Foundation, Intrepid’s philanthropic non-profit, provides visibility, connection and financial support to various organizations around the world.

Why Cruise with Intrepid Travel

Cruising in Antarctica with Intrepid is a feel-good opportunity. Your Antarctica voyage is carbon-neutral; in fact, 125% of emissions are offset. The company is working toward 100% renewable energy. And in Antarctica, Intrepid partners with World Wildlife Fund researchers, sources sustainable seafood, avoids single-use plastics and provides biodegradable toiletries. Also, they can get 100 guests off the ship via an impressive fleet of 22 Zodiacs.

CONNECT WITH AN ANTARCTICA EXPERT

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Lindblad Expeditions

Lindblad Expeditions is a pioneer in small ship expedition cruises and one of the biggest names in small ship cruising today. The company is synonymous with exploration, education and conservation. Operating under the idea that a cruise is passive but an expedition is active, Lindblad delivers an authentic and exhilarating travel experience through all-five-senses engagement with the world’s most exotic locations worldwide.

Why Cruise with Lindblad Expeditions

Lindblad’s reputation for being at the top of the expedition market is well deserved. A cruise aboard any one of Lindblad’s small ships is marked by a top-notch expedition team with some of the best service in the industry. Despite Lindblad’s luxury price tag, the onboard atmosphere is casual and practical in an expedition style. The true value is in the naturalists, historians, undersea specialists, guest lecturers, highly trained guides and partnership with National Geographic. Lindblad Expeditions is the best Antarctica cruise line if you are seeking the highest quality onboard educational programs and intellectual stimulation.

Oceanwide Expeditions

Oceanwide Expeditions is a Dutch vessel operator specializing only in polar cruising. Like the Dutch cartographers of their namesake ships, they follow meticulous attention to detail and refinement because safety and experience depends on it. Their fleet of three expedition ships are not fancy but known for excellent standards of service and comfort. Oceanwide operates a unique Antarctica basecamp cruise which is popular with travelers seeking ample opportunities for active exploration.

Why Cruise with Oceanwide Expeditions

A five-time winner of the World’s Leading Polar Expedition Operator award, Oceanwide is passionate about polar expedition cruising. The company distinguishes itself from other operators with an emphasis on educational lectures by experienced guides and by delivering an active shore program.

Polar Latitudes

Founded in 2010 by a group of veteran polar specialists, Polar Latitudes wanted to buck the trend of ever larger ships with more berths. The company aims to preserve the atmosphere and camaraderie, as well as the level of service, that can only be sustained aboard smaller vessels.  

Why Cruise with Polar Latitudes

People and passion distinguish Polar Latitudes. The company only cruises in Antarctica and this singular focus results in a deep knowledge of the continent. They are founder-owned-and-operated and it may be the only Antarctica cruise line where you might find an owner driving you on a Zodiac excursion.

Ponant is the world’s only French cruise ship operator specializing in intimately sized luxurious small ships all flying under the French flag. Their fleet of small expedition ships are the finest available. The “French touch” is exemplified by the presence of French Naval officers, elegant cuisine and internationally recognized interior design. French and English are spoken on board.

Why Cruise with Ponant

If you are seeking to explore aboard the most luxurious Antarctica ships available, Ponant is for you. You will not sacrifice experience for comfort as the off-vessel expedition program is exceptional. Ponant is the best Antarctica luxury cruise .

Poseidon Expeditions

Poseidon Expeditions is one of the leading providers of polar expeditions in the cruise industry. Founded in 1999, the company is a recognized leader in icebreaker cruises. Poseidon is very well known for their Arctic cruises and has successfully navigated to the North Pole well over 100 times. The company brings this expertise to Antarctica with an experienced expedition crew, a luxury expedition ship and a commitment to sustainability. 

Why Cruise with Poseidon Expeditions

Poseidon offers an upscale ship and one of the best staff-to-passenger ratios in Antarctica. Choose this Antarctica cruise line to combine the spirit of adventure with a generous measure of onboard comfort and well-being.

PICTURE YOURSELF HERE

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Quark Expeditions

Quark Expeditions is a recognized leader in polar cruising and offers the widest array of Antarctic expeditions on the planet. The company boasts a number of firsts including the first non-scientific visits to emperor penguin rookeries, first circumnavigation of Antarctica for commercial passengers, and the discovery of the emperor penguin rookery at Snow Hill Island. In 2015 they were recognized as the World’s Leading Specialty Cruise Line at the World Travel Awards.

Why Cruise with Quark Expeditions

When you cruise with Quark Expeditions, you can rest assured that you are traveling with one of the most conscientious companies in the polar expeditions industry, from safety standards to customer service and sustainability. Many of the most interesting itineraries and routes are offered by Quark Expeditions. 

How Does AdventureSmith Select the Best Antarctica Cruises & Cruise Lines? 

We created this list of the best Antarctica tour companies based on several factors. First and foremost is operational safety and experience in polar cruising. Off-vessel exploration and activity program logistics are an important consideration. Onboard programs, lectures and the experience of the expedition crew are critical for a top ranking.

The ships themselves must be polar class but ship amenities are a secondary consideration. There are ships for every style and budget, from simple research ships to extravagant luxury expedition ships. Take a deep dive to learn more about Antarctica expedition cruise ships . 

We personally inspect every ship and work with Antarctic cruise companies for many years before they make it on our best list.

Which Antarctica Cruise Lines Do We Recommend?

Each of the Antarctica cruise lines on our list is a good choice. We feel it is not our role to play favorites. Our job is to match the traveler with the right itinerary, ship and cruise line for their interests, budget and schedule. We take this commitment to our clients seriously and endeavor to personalize our recommendations. Ultimately the best cruise to Antarctica is the one that fits your style and budget.

View our full selection of partner small ship cruise companies and our full list of small expedition ships . Learn more about choosing a cruise in our Antarctica travel guide .

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MORE ANTARCTICA RESOURCES : Antarctica Travel Guide Antarctica Cruises Luxury Antarctica Cruises Falkland Islands & South Georgia Cruises Cruises with Flights to Antarctica Best Time to Visit Antarctica Antarctica Cruise Cost How to Get to Antarctica Things to Do in Antarctica Places in Antarctica Antarctica Ships Antarctica Cruise Deals Antarctica Cruise Reviews

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Book Aboard the Best Antarctica Cruise Line

Now that you know the best Antarctica cruise lines, it’s time to find the best cruise for your budget and interests. Browse our top Antarctica trips, or follow the link to view all and filter results. Our experts specialize in helping clients find the right trip at the best price, and are standing by to assist you find your match.

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Best Antarctica Cruise – Ultimate Guide to Who & How [2024]

• Last Updated: July 6, 2024

If you’re planning on going on the world’s most epic bucket list adventure by booking an Antarctica cruise there’s a few things you need to know first. In our ultimate guide we draw on our personal experience from multiple trips to share the how, who, when and why of travelling on a cruise to Antarctica!

Whether you’re ready to book, doing more research or simply interested in the idea of visiting Antarctica, there’s some very important things you need to know before dropping your hard-earned money on an expedition to the 7th continent.

We’ve been travelling and working in Antarctica since 2017, first as photographers and content creators, then as tour guides taking our own groups to this beautiful part of the world.

One thing we’ve discovered over the years is that no two Antarctic expeditions are the same – both in experience, and in service.

A quick Google will show that there are over 100 operators registered to IAATO, the International Association of Antarctica Tour Operators, to run trips down here, and then there are a handful of private enterprises and sailers that visit each year as well.

So how do you know which operator to book with? What time of year should you go? Why are some companies more expensive than others? And with so many different itineraries now available, which one should you choose?

That’s what we have set out to answer for you in this comprehensive guide.

By the end of this article you will have a great understanding of the differences between the best Antarctica cruises and which companies we recommend based on personal experience and intimate industry knowledge.

Ready to embark on the journey of a lifetime? Let’s dive into it!

READ MORE: Dive deep into our complete guide on travelling to Antarctica !

Table of Contents

Can You Travel to Antarctica in Winter?

Crossing the drake passage vs flying the drake passage, crossing the antarctic circle, the weddell sea and snow hill, falkland islands (islas malvinas), south georgia, the ‘trio’ – antarctica, south georgia and falkland islands, the ross sea from new zealand or australia, aurora expeditions, quark expeditions, hurtigruten, other operators, navigating antarctic waters, does a more expensive trip mean a better experience, 7 days – express (fly the drake), 10/11 days – classic antarctic peninsula, 14 days – crossing the antarctic circle or visit the weddell sea/snow hill, 20 days – falkland islands, south georgia island and antarctica, 21-24 days – trio and crossing the circle, 28 days – ross sea or ‘sailing’ to antarctica on a yacht, zodiac cruises, landings and hiking, onboard seminars, polar plunge, wildlife watching, sea kayaking, day paddling, mountaineering and climbing, skiing and snowboarding, scuba diving, photography workshops, citizen science programs, environmental responsibility when choosing an antarctica cruise operator, when is the best time to go on an antarctica cruise.

All commercial operators that run trips to Antarctica during the Southern Hemisphere’s spring and summer months, stretching from late October to March, with the majority being between November and February.

Each month offers travellers a very different experience.

In November, as the continent emerges from its icy slumber, voyagers are greeted with pristine and untouched snowy landscapes.

Antarctica is at its most beautiful, but it also brings challenges for expedition teams due to weather, sea ice and snow density, meaning some landings might not be possible.

December and January are the peak months of the Antarctic summer, with the warmest temperatures (sometimes never dropping below freezing except at night), very long daylight hours, and the heartwarming sight of penguins nurturing their freshly hatched chicks.

It’s also the busiest time of year though on the Peninsula.

As the season progresses into February and March, the continent witnesses the awe-inspiring migrations of thousands of humpback whales and penguins shedding their feathers in the molting season.

The Peninsula might look it’s ‘dirtiest’ though, with much of the ground snow melted.

While the scenery is mesmerising throughout, the choice of month can tailor very different wildlife encounters and unique experiences.

We’ve written another full guide on the best time to visit Antarctica , but personally we prefer to travel early season (November) for landscapes and penguins, and late season (February and March) for whales.

After our very successful tour to Antarctica this season, we are going to be running another exclusive adventure down to the Peninsula in 2025, this time crossing the Antarctic Circle! Check out the tour page if you’d like to learn more.

Unfortunately tourists cannot visit Antarctica in winter due to the extremely cold weather and huge congestion in sea ice limiting access.

Antarctic Cruise Itineraries

There are a variety of different itineraries that are available to book for cruises to Antarctica.

Depending on your style, budget, interests and length of time available you’ll find some trips that are common (for good reason), and others that are very unique and only happen once every few years.

Here are the main Antarctic cruise itineraries you can book.

Antarctic Peninsula

The most common itinerary to Antarctica is a trip to the Antarctic Peninsula, most often departing from the port of Ushuaia in Argentina, at the very southern tip of South America.

These trips usually take around 10-12 days, with 5-7 days spent on the western side of the Antarctic Peninsula (the rest of the days are travelling over the Drake Passage), and no two trips are the same.

Some of the main destinations that you might visit on an Antarctic Peninsula cruise are:

• Deception Island
• South Shetland Islands
• Vernadsky Station
• Elephant Island
• Paulet Island
• Damoy Point
• Portal Point
• Cuverville Island
• Errera Channel
• Gerlache Strait
• Lemaire Channel

Just because it’s the most common tour doesn’t mean it’s not worth doing. A Peninsula trip is truly mind-blowing, and allows you to officially step foot on the 7th continent.

When researching Antarctic Peninsula cruises you’ll probably see that the majority of the itineraries sail across the Drake Passage , the infamous stretch of sea between South America and Antarctica, while a couple fly over the Drake to King George Island.

Many people are worried about the Drake Passage, which is understandable – it has the reputation for being the roughest sea in the world.

But one thing to keep in mind is that you’re not sailing to Antarctica in a little boat. You’re on a large expedition ship which is designed to handle much worse conditions than the Drake.

Seasickness might be a concern, but there’s medication to help with that and every trip has a doctor onboard.

The alternative is to fly the Drake from Punta Arenas in Chile, and while this is very tempting (it saves 4 days of travel and no rough seas to cross), there’s one very important thing to keep in mind:

Weather at King George Island is very unpredictable, and with just one scheduled flight a day allowed, cancellations are very common.

Visibility needs to be very clear down there and the right direction of wind for the pilots to land safely. If they don’t think they can land safely, they don’t depart Chile.

If your flight to Antarctica is cancelled on one day, the company usually only has one more attempt to get their guests down there before they have to forfeit their spot for the next company’s charter.

So if you’re unlucky and just so happen to get two days of bad weather in either Punta Arenas or Antarctica during your scheduled days of departure, your entire trip can be cancelled.

For that reason we do not recommend flying over the Drake Passage to Antarctica unless you are 110% positive that you mentally cannot handle the sea crossing.

Plus if you do cross the Drake by sea you get that added sense of achievement.

If stepping foot on the Antarctic continent isn’t enough, you can become one of the 0.001% of the human population who will ever cross the fabled Antarctic Circle at 66º southern latitude.

A few companies offer Antarctica tours that aim to cross the Circle (we say aim because nothing is guaranteed down here), and these itineraries are usually around 14 days (with 7-10 days on the Peninsula).

One thing to note is that there isn’t really anything ‘different’ once you cross the circle – the landscapes and wildlife are more or less same.

But you get more time in Antarctica, and get to venture to one of the most remote places on the planet.

Some Antarctica tours go to the eastern side of the Peninsula and enter the Weddell Sea, which promises a different experience again and is not often visited by travellers.

There’s a lot of fascinating history in the Weddell Sea, especially around Sir Ernest Shackleton and his legendary tale of survival from the Endurance with his crew, so if this is of interest it’s worth looking for an itinerary that follows this path.

One unique tour that’s popped up recently, and has been pioneered by Quark Expeditions and now also offered by Ponant, is a trip to the emperor penguins of Snow Hill .

This trip is only offered once every couple of years in the early season (October) and requires either an icebreaker ship or a Class 1A ice-strengthened ship with helicopters, which allows guests to get close to the emperor penguin colony.

It’s known as one of the world’s greatest wildlife experiences, and has the price to match.

We’ve never personally done this but hope to one day.

The Falkland Islands, or Isla Malvinas, is a truly spectacular archipelago about 1.5 days cruising from Ushuaia.

You’ll find some fantastic itineraries that include Falkland Islands, either as part of the trio (below), or sometimes starting in the Falkland Islands.

If you love British history, or just want something a little different, it’s worth looking at an itinerary that includes the Falklands.

The wildlife here, while not as dense as South Georgia, is especially fascinating for birdlife like albatross.

Known as the Serengeti of the Southern Ocean, South Georgia is one of the most incredible wildlife destinations on the planet.

Boasting dramatic mountains, huge glaciers and beaches filled with hundreds of thousands of king penguins, elephant seals and fur seals, it really is a sensory overload and we’ve seen quite a few people shed a tear when they’ve seen Salisbury Plain or St Andrews Bay for the first time.

In all honesty, as amazing as Antarctica is, most people who visit South Georgia end up saying that this spectacular island is their real highlight of the trip.

There are a few itineraries that only visit South Georgia (usually after flying into Stanley in the Falkland Islands), but the majority will either include the Peninsula and possibly the Falklands.

Adding on South Georgia adds significant expense to an Antarctic trip due to how remote it is, but it is 100% worth it.

Check out our guide on the best time to visit South Georgia based on our personal experience.

Considered to be the pinnacle of best Antarctic tours is a trip that includes the Antarctic Peninsula, South Georgia and the Falkland Islands, often referred to as the ‘trio’.

These itineraries are usually around 20 days long, with quite a few days spent at sea navigating between each destination, so if you can find a longer itinerary that includes more days at each place it’s worth exploring.

This is the Antarctic cruise itinerary we most recommend.

Our own group tour on the trio includes the most amount of days in each location available.

An Antarctic cruise to the Ross Sea from either New Zealand or Australia is a very rare occurrence, with only a small number of companies making the journey, and is usually booked by people who have been to the Peninsula before and want to see a different side of the continent.

A trip to the Ross Sea involves a lot of sea days and can be very expensive, but they visit very important research bases, follow the explorers Mawson and Shackleton’s history and includes penguin colonies not often seen, or located on the Macquarie Islands in the Subantarctic.

Heritage Expeditions is one such operator that runs two trips a year to the Ross Sea, via the Subantarctic Islands.

As of 2025 Aurora Expeditions, the award-winning Australian polar company, will be returning to the Eastern side of Antarctica from Hobart on their newest X-Bow ship, the Douglas Mawson.

CEO Michael Heath says, “We are equally delighted to be offering passengers new itineraries departing from Australia as part of the ship’s inaugural season, including an exploration of Mawson’s Antarctica, which will visit Mawson’s Huts at Cape Denison, Commonwealth Bay, and New Zealand’s Subantarctic Islands.

“AE Expeditions has pioneered expedition travel to the world’s most remote places for more than three decades, and we know that exploration is not just about what you see, but how you see it.

“That is why we are committed to delivering life changing experiences with the newest, most advanced technology available, and with the most experienced and passionate team in the industry,” he added.

Our Best Tips for Choosing the Right Antarctica Expedition for You

Choosing the right Antarctic cruise is essential for crafting an unforgettable polar experience.

This remote, icy frontier promises unparalleled adventures and sights, but the vast array of cruise options available can be overwhelming.

From the more than 100 different companies that operate down there, different ship sizes and amenities and of course the nuances of itineraries and activities, every detail plays a big part in shaping your journey.

With such a significant investment of time, money, and anticipation, it’s crucial to make informed decisions.

As you dream of gliding past enormous tabular icebergs and observing wildlife in its purest habitat, here are our best tips to ensure you select the right Antarctic cruise and best Antarctica tour company that aligns perfectly with your expectations and desires.

The Best Antarctica Cruise Company – Our Recommendations

With more than 100 operators running trips to Antarctica it’s very easy to be overwhelmed with who to go with.

And if you ask for opinions from a travel agent, they’ll just tell you the one that either a) pays them the most commission or b) is going to offer them a free trip if they sell X number of spots.

Then if you ask in one of the popular Facebook groups, the answer will almost inevitably be whichever company that particular person went with, and they have nobody else to compare them to.

We’ve travelled with a whole variety of polar operators, and here’s our top 5 recommendations and why.

Australian enterprise Aurora Expeditions has carved a niche for itself in the realm of polar travel for being a bit more adventurous than the rest, without compromising safety.

Their focus leans towards a genuine and immersive experience rather than mere sightseeing, with activities such as snorkelling, scuba diving and stand-up paddleboarding available to purchase.

Aurora has a small fleet of luxury ships and a fantastic team of seasoned expedition guides, so travellers are in good hands.

They are also B Corp certified , a testament to their commitment to sustainability.

“Our pioneering spirit leads us to explore rarely visited locations and introduce unique itineraries for every season,” Hayley Peacock-Gower tells us, who is the Chief Marketing Officer of Aurora Expeditions.

“We pride ourselves on innovation and pushing the boundaries of discovery to provide unique, immersive experiences for our expeditioners while maintaining a light footprint.

“We’re constantly seeking new places to explore while on a voyage and want to share these findings with our expeditioners, so we’re comfortable adjusting our schedule to make the most of unexpected wildlife or scenic displays.”

In 2025 Aurora Expeditions will also be welcoming the brand new, 154pax X-BOW vessel, the Douglas Mawson, to their fleet, which will prove to be one of the most capable, luxury ships in the industry.

Their trips however are on the pricier side, which is something to consider. In our opinion though the quality product that you receive with Aurora is worth the price, and they are known in the industry for being one of the top operators.

Working as photographers, content creators and guides in Antarctica we have been fortunate enough to travel with quite a few different companies down here.

In 2025 after years of hearing incredible things about their product from both guests and crew, we will be joining forces with them to work in the polar regions.

EXCLUSIVE – We have partnered with two of the world’s top polar tour operators, Aurora Expeditions and Intrepid, to offer readers of NOMADasaurus a very special deal on any trip to Antarctica or the Arctic! Contact us ( [email protected] ) if you’d like to learn more about these exclusive discounts.

Canadian company Quark Expeditions is one of the true pioneers in polar adventures.

Established in 1991, this trailblazing company has spent decades perfecting the art of delivering unparalleled experiences in the planet’s most remote regions.

They were the the first to organise trips to Snow Hill and revolutionised North Pole tours, so they’re always looking for what’s next in the world of polar voyages.

Quark has an impeccable safety record and has a fleet of ice-class vessels, including the new, luxurious MV Ultramarine , which allows them to execute really unique itineraries.

All of their ships have under 200 passengers too, meeting IAATO regulations for number of people off the ship at any one time.

One of the most famous names in polar travel, Hurtigruten , hailing from Norway and originally started as a ferry company, offers excellent budget-friendly trips to the Antarctic and Arctic.

Their itineraries are fantastic and the service for guests is excellent. They also have an excellent onboard science program.

However , their ships are very large, with between 250 and 500 passengers on each trip, meaning your actual time spent off the ship is limited.

If price is a major factor for you they are a good option and they do have a great product, but the size of their ships is something to consider. Remember, in Antarctica, bigger isn’t better.

Intrepid is famous around the world for organising amazing small group tours around the world, and as of recently have now moved into the polar regions.

They operate a large, older ship, the Ocean Endeavour, but limit passengers to 199 to skate under the 200 pax limit.

Their trips attract a younger demographic and a lower price point, but they’ve worked hard to secure some of the best expedition team members in the industry.

Jarryd is now working with Intrepid as an Expedition Photography Guide during their Antarctic season, teaching others how to create beautiful images in the polar regions.

The average age onboard an Intrepid trip is around 45, so it’s an entirely different atmosphere compared to something like Ponant or Lindblad that has an older average age.

Neither is better or worse, just something to consider based on your own style.

Scenic is an old hand in the luxury river cruise industry, they have since branched out into polar tours and are doing an amazing job at it with their beautiful ships and brilliant expedition team.

They have some pretty unique offerings, including a submarine that you can book for seeing Antarctica beneath the surface, and really fun activities.

Many of our expedition guide friends are now working at Scenic as well, and we can vouch for just how good they all are.

Of course that’s just scratching the surface and there is plenty of other operators out there. These are some others worth considering:

• Islands and Ice – Small tour company run by the legendary expedition leader David Sinclair, chartering the MV Polar Pioneer for adventurous trips of less than 50 people.
• Ponant – Uber-luxurious cruise operator. If you like your icebergs with a side of caviar underneath a chandelier, this is the company to go with.
• G Adventures – Similar to Intrepid in that they focus primarily on small group trips in other parts of the world, but their Antarctic product is quite good.
• Oceanwide Expeditions – Small groups with under 100 passengers, operating some cool itineraries.
• Albatros Expeditions – Nice, sustainable operator with great ships and decent expedition team.

Ship Size Matters on Antarctica Cruises

You might be tempted to book a tour onboard a larger cruise ship for a number of reasons.

More space and amenities, cheaper price, familiarity with a particular company such as Carnival, etc.

But trust us when we say bigger is not bigger in Antarctica!

IAATO , the body that regulates tourism in Antarctica, has strict rules around the number of passengers from any one ship that can leave the vessel at any one time.

• Less than 100 passengers – Everybody can leave the ship at the same time and step foot on the continent at the same time
• Between 101-200 passengers – Everybody can leave the ship at the same time, but only 100 people can step foot on the continent at any one time, so the rest of the guests will often do a zodiac cruise
• Between 201-500 passengers – Only 200 people can leave the ship at any one time, so 100 maximum people will land on shore, 100 people maximum will go on a zodiac cruise and the rest waits on the ship for a group to come back.
• More than 501 passengers – Nobody leaves the ship at all.

So as you can see if you are booking a trip to Antarctica on a large ship, you run the risk of not even getting off the ship.

You don’t really want to spend all that money just to get down there and look at the continent from your balcony.

For that reason we don’t recommend booking a trip on a vessel that carries any more than 200 people total, and ideally less than 100 people if you can find one.

Let us say that again;

DO NOT BOOK A TRIP WITH MORE THAN 200 PASSENGERS!

Besides that, there’s other considerations when it comes to ship size and choosing the best Antarctica expedition.

Smaller ships have much better manoeuvrability, which allows them to navigate through narrow channels and into tight bays to allow you to access Antarctica close up.

A smaller ship often means a shallower draft too, so they can get into some areas that may not be deep enough for larger vessels.

This might not be something you think about, but when you book a smaller ship you have a greater sense of intimacy with your fellow guests and expedition team.

There is often just the one dining room and one, maybe two, lounges to relax in. That means everybody congregates in the same areas and it doesn’t take long to start getting to know everybody.

The larger ships can feel like a labyrinth, and we’ve heard of people going entire expeditions and not ever finding the library for example.

Personally, we prefer smaller ships.

How Much is a Cruise to Antarctica?

Heading off on an Antarctic adventure is both a dream and a significant financial undertaking.

With such a wide variety of cruise options, ranging from small, older vessels to high-end luxury ships, it can be hard to determine what is worth spending your money on.

At the budget-friendly end, less extravagant ships may lack the luxurious amenities, but they often deliver an authentic, intimate connection with the Antarctic wilderness.

These ships focus on the adventure and Antarctica expedition with an authentic flare, where you feel encouraged to be out on deck or in the lounge areas when you’re onboard rather than sprawled out in your cabin.

On the other hand, luxury cruises offer plush accommodations, gourmet dining, spa services, and even onboard entertainment.

Some of them even have helicopters and submarines onboard, opening up a whole new world that isn’t possible with other operators.

While these amenities come at a premium, it ensures an unparalleled level of comfort amidst a wild Antarctic backdrop.

Essentially, you get what you pay for when it comes to the ship; the more you pay, the nicer the onboard experience.

So how much should you expect to pay for a cruise to Antarctica?

On average, USD$10,000 per person for the standard itinerary, and around USD$18,000 for a trip that includes the Falkland Islands and South Georgia.

Of course you can sometimes find trips for as long as USD$5,000 per person if you book it super last minute on a special deal, and ones as expensive as USD$50,000 or more.

However when you look at the individual itineraries for different operators, you might notice something interesting…

They are often the exact same, whether you’re playing $8,000 or $20,000.

A typical 10-day ‘Best of Antarctica’ itinerary, which actually only includes 4.5 days in Antarctica, has the same number of days and excursions on the continent, often doing the same thing (zodiac cruises, landings, ship exploring, etc).

Adventure activities, such as kayaking, stand-up paddle-boarding and camping, usually have an additional cost no matter which company you’re with too.

So really, in most situations you’re paying more money for a nicer ship and cabin.

There are exceptions of course, especially if your ship has helicopters.

But if the company you’re looking at doesn’t have any obvious benefits such as helicopters or more days at sea, most of the price increase is for better food and nicer rooms.

Is that worth it the difference in cost?

That’s a question only you can answer.

Either way, it’s paramount to really look into what’s included in your package. Some voyages may seem very cheap upfront but then charge extra for essentials like shore excursions, gear rentals, or even certain onboard facilities.

All of the operators we recommend though include daily excursions, all meals and gear rental included, regardless of price and itinerary.

And if you have some flexibility in your travel plans, there’s a big potential to lock in some remarkable last-minute deals.

Subscribe to the newsletters of Antarctic cruise operators or follow their social media channels to see what’s available.

Or get in touch with us for the best price possible with our current favourite operator, Quark Expeditions, even better than what they advertise to the public.

How Long Should You Book to Visit Antarctica?

The length of Antarctica cruises vary quite a bit, with options ranging from a week right up to an entire month.

The length of your voyage determines not only how much of Antarctica you get to explore but also how much time you spend on the open sea versus the continent itself.

The sweet spot is the classic 11-day itineraries, which just visits the Peninsula, but let us break down the general ones you’ll find.

One thing to keep in mind though is that the length of time the companies advertise is not how much time you get to spend in Antarctica.

For example an 11-day itinerary often means just 4-5 days in Antarctica, and the rest of the time is spent before the trip in Buenos Aires or Ushuaia and the two days each way on the Drake.

Misleading? Perhaps. But that’s just what it is.

For those that are on a super tight schedule or really, really don’t want to cross the Drake, you can fly down to join your cruise to Antarctica.

You’ll usually have one full day in Punta Arenas, Chile, then schedule to fly to King George Island the next day. Then you’ll have 4 days on the ship, before flying back for another night in Punta Arenas.

This is the trip most people do.

You’ll meet your group in Ushuaia on the first day, then jump on the ship the next day (or start in Buenos Aires and take a charter flight the next morning).

After that it’s two days sailing across the Drake Passage, 4 days to explore Antarctica, then two days back to Ushuaia.

You wake up in Ushuaia and the trip either ends there for you, or you jump on a charter flight back to Buenos Aires.

Essentially the same structure as above, but you’ll have an extra couple of days to travel the distance required to hopefully cross the Antarctic Circle, or sail around to the east side of the Peninsula to get into the Weddell Sea and maybe see the emperor penguins.

Our personal favourite length, as it ticks off all the major highlights.

Starting in Buenos Aires or Ushuaia, you then have one sea day to make it to Falkland Islands, then usually have two days exploring around the British archipelago.

Then it’s two more days at sea to get to South Georgia, with 3 to 4 days spent visiting the most spectacular place on earth.

You’ll then have a massive three sea days to get to the Peninsula for your 4 days hanging around here.

Then back across the Drake you go.

As above, but with a few extra days to cross the Antarctic Circle.

Basically the ultimate Antarctica trip.

If you have a month up your sleeve you can either take the historic Ross Sea trips from New Zealand or Tasmania, or be a real adventurer and jump on tall ship to sail down to Antarctica.

Activities and Excursions on Antarctica Trips

When you’re heading down to the Antarctic region on an expedition cruise ship there’s quite a few activities that you can do.

Some are included in the price for everybody, and others have limited availability for an additional cost.

Here’s what you can expect for what to do in Antarctica :

There are no ports in Antarctica that allows for a ship to dock, so the only way to get off the ship and explore land is on a small, inflatable boat called a Zodiac.

Zodiacs not only allow you to step food on land, but they also let you get up close to icebergs, glaciers, and wildlife.

Zodiac cruises offer an intimate and immersive experience, allowing passengers to navigate through stunning icy waterways.

The frequent Zodiac landings, integral to most Antarctic cruises, transport passengers from the ship to the very heart of the continent.

Setting foot on the Antarctic mainland, or one of its many islands, is an indescribable moment.

Zodiac excursions are included in most small ship cruises.

Once you’ve used a zodiac to get to shore you have a few other included activities – landings and hiking.

You can wander around a predetermined path, set out by the expedition guides, to visit research stations and viewpoints, or get closer to penguin colonies.

Any decent company, like the ones we recommend above, will also have daily onboard seminars from guides, scientists, biologists and historians to share information about the continent.

They fill the sea days and evenings, and you shouldn’t miss any.

If you want the ultimate bragging rights after your trip to Antarctica make sure you don’t miss the polar plunge.

What is it? Well, it’s going for a swim in Antarctica, of course.

You wander down the gangway, strap a harness and rope to you, and literally jump off a perfectly good (and warm) ship into the icy water.

It’s included in most trips, weather permitting, and you’ll get to come home with some cool photos to prove you did it.

Of course Antarctic wildlife watching is always free and included in your trip.

Some of the animals you could see are many penguin species such as gentoos, adélie penguins, Magellanic penguins, rockhoppers, chinstraps, king penguins, emperors (if you’re super lucky) and macaronis.

You can see lots of whales too such as humpback whales, minke whales and orca (killer whales), and occasionally blue or southern right whales in the Southern Ocean.

Sea birds also make part of the abundant wildlife, with albatross, skuas, petrels and terns commonly found.

And if you like seals in their natural habitat, there’s southern elephant seals, weddell seals, ross seals, leopard seals, crabeater seals and Antarctic fur seals.

Sorry, there’s polar bears down here. You’re thinking of the Arctic.

Optional Activities on your Antarctic Cruises

While almost all Antarctic cruises offer shore landings and Zodiac cruises as standard, there’s a whole bunch of optional activities for those eager to try something different down in the continent.

If you’re ready to step up the adventure, here’s a guide on what’s on offer and how to ensure you don’t miss out.

Gliding silently through the icy waters, kayakers get an intimate perspective of Antarctica’s coastlines.

As icebergs loom majestically overhead and seals laze on floating ice, you can navigate through a surreal world rarely experienced by others.

When you book a sea kayaking package you are given a dry suit and instruction from your experienced guides, and the goal is to get out as much as possible during your itinerary.

Most expedition ships that offer kayaking in Antarctica have a limited number of kayaks, so early reservation is crucial.

It’s also only suited for those with some prior sea kayaking experience.

If you love the idea of kayaking but don’t want to do it every single day on your trip, many companies now offer what’s called ‘day paddle excursions’, where you sign up for a once-off and jump in an inflatable kayak for an hour or two.

It’s absolutely beautiful and is perfect for those that just want to try it once.

Imagine sleeping under the Antarctic sky , surrounded by snow and ice, with the distant calls of penguins lulling you to sleep.

Sounds majestic doesn’t it?

Truth is it’s not comfortable at all, most people get anxious about it and there’s the fear of being too cold to sleep, but we’ll let you in on a little secret – Camping in Antarctica is nowhere near as bad as it sounds and is the ultimate experience.

You are given strict instructions on how it works and will be given your own bivvy sack to sleep in (not a tent), which is rated to the temperatures down there so you won’t freeze.

Given the stringent environmental regulations and the limited gear available, only a few spots are open per cruise. Book in advance.

If you’re a hardcore mountaineer or experienced rock climber there are a number of small expedition companies that offer these activities on certain itineraries.

With the guidance of expert mountaineers, you can ascend icy peaks or navigate glacial routes for an epic bucket list adventure.

You must be an experienced climber, and be able to prove it, before a company will accept your booking for these challenging adventures.

A couple of companies now also offer skiing and snowboarding trips to Antarctica.

As above, you need to prove you have backcountry skiing/snowboarding experience, all the right gear and avalanche rescue training before you can sign up.

Fancy doing a bit of scuba diving in Antarctica? Well you can…on the condition that you have the right tickets and experience.

Diving in Antarctica is a very unique experience where you can see marine mammals, krill and ice, but it does require advanced PADI certification, ice-diving certs and at least 20 logged ice dives.

There’s also only a couple of companies that are equipped for this and it’s quite expensive.

While most ships have an expedition photographer onboard whose job it is to document the entire trip, providing the images and videos to the guests at the end, most companies don’t have dedicated photography workshops.

There are some exceptions, Intrepid being a notable one who Jarryd worked with as a photography guide this year, where you join a small group of people to get daily workshops on photography techniques, camera settings, composition, creativity, editing and more.

For those who wish to contribute to our understanding of this remote region, some companies collaborate with research institutions to allow passengers to participate in data collection and other scientific activities.

Details are often available in cruise itineraries, and early registration ensures you’re part of these enriching experiences.

Finally, remember that it’s a privilege to visit Antarctica and you should always make sure you do so responsibly .

Only every book a trip with a company that is registered of IAATO, which is an official organisation that designates Antarctica purely for the purpose of science and research.

Newer ships produce less emissions and are more fuel efficient, so consider spending a little bit more money for a ship that wasn’t built in the 80s.

Protect the unique wildlife, stunning environment and exploration history of one of the world’s most spectacular places by selecting a reputable company to travel with, like the ones we recommended in this article.

Alesha and Jarryd

Hi, We’re Alesha and Jarryd!

We’ve been traveling the world together since 2008, searching for the planet’s best destinations and adventures.

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From start to finish, their organization was impeccable, ensuring every moment aboard our sturdy ship, with its exceptional hotel team, was filled with excitement and wonder. My favorite moment was witnessing polar bears and walruses against the backdrop of breathtaking landscapes. I have to highlight, the expedition team's deep insights into the region's history and culture enriched our journey profoundly. Their passion for adventure, respect for wildlife, and commitment to climate awareness made the experience unforgettable. I can't wait to embark on another adventure with them. Highly recommended for anyone craving an enriching Arctic experience aboard a ship that felt like home.

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Natalya Getman was very supportive and quickly responding to each my questions. The trip to Antarctica was one of the best experiences. It was very well organized - there was time for learning a lot about Antarctica, for explore Antarctica with zodiacs and walking on the land, for nice conversations with interesting people, for relax and enjoy the moments there. I strongly recommend this trip to each adventureous.

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The adventure of a lifetime: Each day was a new discovery. I never felt so connected with nature and wildlife. Entering the realm of ice, cruising through sea ice and among glaciers was an experience I'll never forget. We dropped zodiacs to explore endless remote places and wildlife, we even had a close up encounter with a polar bear. I had so much fun doing the polar plunge in the arctic sea. Every member of the crew was fantastic and excellent in doing their job. The cuisine exceeded my expectations, every meal was a piece of art. Rethinking about all these unforgettable memories makes me want to book for another trip. I recommend to anyone who wants to create unforgettable memories in the polar regions on a very cozy boat with only 12 guests that will make you feel like home for the entire journey.

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One of the best trips we ever did: We had some of the best experience with Secret Atlas on our micro expedition in Svalbard, in August 2023 onboard Kinfish. The crew was very professional and the whole experience was really smooth from start to finish. Swimming near the North Pole was easily one of the best experiences of my life. We were very lucky to see an abundance of unique wildlife every single day. Sailing on a small boat like ours (Kinfish), with only 12 guests onboard, allowed us to navigate and explore places that other (bigger) ships simply couldn't. Would 100% recommend this to anyone looking for a once in a lifetime adventure while exploring the Arctic.

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ANTARCTICA CRUISES

The ultimate guide (2023/24), cruises to antarctica.

A quick search of Antarctica cruise options on the internet brings thousands of results back that can often seem a little overwhelming.

This is enhanced by the fact that there are literally hundreds of Antarctica cruise operators all offering different cruises and at varying prices.

So how do you decide on your perfect Antarctic Cruise?

With over 70 Antarctica cruise itineraries, we know it can seem daunting, so we’ve pooled all our resources and produced a detailed page that will help you choose the ideal Antarctica cruise.  

There are many factors that need considering, such as budget , itinerary , cruise size , destinations , what activities you’re looking to do and lastly, what to look for in a great Antarctica cruise operator.

This page deals with all of the above mentioned factors in detail and by the end of the page you should have a great idea of what Antarctica cruise you’re after.

We have also listed the most popular Antarctica itineraries to give you a flavor of what your typical Antarctica cruise operator might offer. Please use the quick-links below if you want to jump to a particular section. Otherwise, read on! 

To enquire about visiting Antarctica, please use this form .

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Antarctica cruise budget, choosing the right antarctica cruise ship, antarctica cruise destinations, antarctica cruise activities, choosing an antarctica tour operator.

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The first thing you need to decide upon when travelling to Antarctica is the type of cruise you’re looking for.

Assuming you want to see the wildlife-rich peninsula, you have three options: either a standard cruise from Ushuaia , a Fly-cruise from Punta Arenas or a luxury cruise .

All three options have their positive points as we discuss below.

Standard Cruise from Ushuaia

By far the most popular option for Antarctica tourists is a standard Antarctic cruise from Ushuaia.

This means sailing from the port of Ushuaia to the Peninsula and returning either straight back or via the Falkland Islands and South Georgia, depending on your itinerary.

All operators offer on-board lectures and, depending on your vessel size, you’ll have the option to go ashore.

To reach the Antarctic Peninsula via boat, you need to first cross the notoriously rough Drake Passage. This is an experience in itself and the more hardy travelers relish the crossing.

Not only do the rough seas make for an exciting journey, there is also the chance to see whales and seabirds on the crossing. The crossing usually takes 48 hours, depending on weather and many travelers consider the crossing as rite of passage to reach Antarctica.

Fly Cruise from Punta Arenas

If the Drake Passage doesn’t sound like your thing, then the other option is to do what is known as a fly-cruise .

This is a great option for people who suffer from sea sickness or for people who have less time on their hands .

A Fly-cruise allows you to fly (usually from Punta Arenas) to King George Island and then take a cruise around the peninsula before flying back to Argentina. Many operators also offer the option to fly one way and cruise the other.

The seas around the peninsula are much calmer than the Drake Passage and people who struggle with constant motion should be fine on the peninsula.

For more detailed information, please read our Drake Passage sea sickness page .

If you suffer from sea sickness quite considerably then the only option open to you would be to fly into the interior of Antarctica and take an expedition camping tour. You’ll need to be quite hardy though as temperatures are extremely cold in the interior, however, you have the chance to see the elusive Emperor Penguins !

Luxury Antarctica Cruise

Like most cruises across the world, there is the option of a luxury cruise. Luxury Antarctica cruises cost more than your typical Antarctica cruise and not every operator has a luxury option.

A luxury Antarctica cruise provides better facilities with a higher on-board service. This means that all cabins will be larger than standard, have ocean views and private en-suite with a bath. Suite rooms and state rooms come with a personal butler and 24 hour room service.

You’ll be able to sit where you want in the ships dining room and all beverages, including fine wine and champagne, are included in the price.

The guides provided on the ship will be world experts and you’ll also have access to professional photographers , authors and destination experts on-board. If you have the money, a Luxury Antarctica cruise is certainly worth considering as the experience is like none other.

Because Antarctica is such a remote destination, cruises do not come cheap. The average price for an Antarctica cruise is US$10,000 per person. 

Price varies considerably depending on when you sail, what itinerary you take, and what ship you choose. Also keep in mind that you will need to budget for flights and optional activities such as kayaking or camping. 

The graph below gives you a broad idea of the price you can expect to pay for different Antarctica cruise itineraries. 

For more information on costs, please see our Antarctica cruise cost page . 

Lower Budget

Firstly, don’t be shocked by the high prices, Antarctica cruises cost far more to run than normal cruises and often provide more activities (like shore landings).

Most Antarctica cruises start at around US$8,500 . At that price you’ll be looking at a fairly short itinerary of around 11 days and you’ll also need to be in a cabin of 4 people.

If you are traveling solo then the price will be more expensive.

Some Antarctica cruise operators offer twin rooms for two solo travelers to share, however, this is not always the case and you will need to check before booking.

If you want to avoid crossing the infamous Drake Passage then you’ll need to budget for a fly-cruise which is more expensive.

Generally a fly-cruise trip will last 8 days and will cost roughly US$10,000 . Again, this is a budget price and you’ll be sharing a cabin once on-board your ship.

People often write that it’s possible to camp out Ushuaia and wait for a last-minute booking  price. Although this is possible, in our experience, it’s not as frequent and easy as people believe. You’ll need time on your hands – which costs money – and you’ll need to be lucky as most Antarctica cruises book out months in advance.

Please keep in mind that lower cabins tend to be less affected by motion and if you do suffer from sea sickness, a lower cabin will be the best option. Lower cabins will also be less expensive on average. Remember, not only do cabins cost different amounts, but also ships. Antarctica cruise operators will often run more than one ship and these vessels will usually be kitted out differently inside which will impact price. If you notice an operator offering two different prices for the same itinerary, this will usually be the reason.

Higher Budget

If you can afford to splash out a little more than your itinerary and cabin options open up considerably.

A standard cruise to the peninsula for 10 days in a nice double cabin will cost anywhere between US$10,000 – $15,000 .

Whilst it is considerably more, if you can afford it then go for it as it makes the whole experience much more pleasurable.

If your budget is above US$10,000 then you can potentially lengthen your trip to take in the spectacular Falkland Islands and South Georgia. Cruises to the peninsula via the Falklands and South Georgia usually start at around US$15,000 for 20 days.

Once again, this is in shared accommodation. If you would like a longer itinerary with your own well-appointed cabin, you should budget more towards $20,000.

Whilst the graph above is a good indicator of general itinerary prices, it is by no means a 100% accurate and every Antarctica cruise operator will charge slightly differently and offer slight variations in itinerary.

This is often the case where certain activities are offered such as Kayaking , camping , scuba diving , swimming etc.

Your cruise ship will impact your travel experience considerably.

Antarctica cruise ship sizes range from vessels that carry less than hundred passengers to vessels that carry over 500!

If your goal is to go ashore as often as possible then you should consider a small vessel as ships carrying less than 200 passengers have access to most landing spots along the peninsula.

Ships with more passengers are often heavily restricted on where they can land and vessels carrying over 500 passengers cannot land at all.

Whilst the smaller ships have the advantage of landing spots, larger ships are generally better appointed and have a much more luxurious feel.

Larger ships also have the added benefit of swaying less in the rolling seas – an important note for people who suffer from sea sickness.

If you want a cruise to Antarctica that allows you to go ashore and get up close and personal with some of the wildlife , then a smaller vessels may be your best option. Cruise boats that carry less than 200 passengers have the right to land at most places, whereas larger ships are more restricted. Cruise ships carrying over 500 people cannot land at all.

Another option is a small yacht. This is not a common option and tourists generally stick to bigger ships. However, there are several registered yacht tours and these tours have great versatility in terms of landing options. Yachts are more affected by sea motion though and tend to cost far more than a cruise – generally in the region of US$1,000 per day per person.

Find out more information on our  Antarctica cruise ships page .

Here are some of our favourite ships.

National Geographic Explorer

National Geographic Orion

Choosing what you specifically want to see and do on your Antarctica cruise can go a long way in helping you decide what tour itinerary to choose.

Below we have listed the most popular destinations and which itineraries include them.

For more information on popular destinations in Antarctica, read our top things to see in Antarctica . 

Antarctica Peninsula

All Antarctica cruise itineraries will visit the Antarctic Peninsula. However, as the route itinerary images above demonstrate, different itineraries will see different points on the peninsula.

The Lemaire Channel

Without doubt one of the most stunning sections of the Antarctica Peninsula. Huge ice cliffs surround you on a narrow channel and provide an ‘out of this world’ landscape. All standard itineraries should visit the Lemaire Channel as it is located at the tip of the peninsula.

The Antarctica Circle

Few people venture past the Antarctica Circle. However, it well worth considering as it takes you further down the Antarctic Peninsula and allows you to explore less-visited sites like the historic research stations at Marguerite Bay. You’ll not cross the Antarctic Circle on a classic itinerary as it is much further south than most cruises go. However, almost all Antarctica cruise companies will operate an Antarctic Circle tour . They’re often called exactly that in fact. You’ll find the price is more expensive than a standard cruise, but less than a cruise that takes in South Georgia and the Falklands.

Known as Iceberg Alley, Hope Bay is home to some stunning ice formations and incredibly large icebergs. The icebergs glow a light blue in the water and you’ll have the opportunity to go ashore and visit the historical expedition huts from the Swedish Antarctic Expedition that wintered in the bay in 1903. All Antarctica cruise operators stop here.

Paradise Harbor (or Paradise Bay)

A great place to visit for wildlife lovers! The ice floes provide great lounging spots for seals and whales are often seen in the deep bay. Lovely ice formations make this one of our favourite spots and ideally, you should see it in a zodiac. All Antarctica cruise itineraries stop here.

Deception Island

One of the most visited spots on the peninsula, Deception Island is home to a colony of Chin Strap penguins. The island is also home to one of the most famous whaler bays in the region – Deception Bay. Historically used by whalers, the bay is now a hot-spot for swimmers as the bay is a caldera of a volcano and provides ‘hot springs’. From our own personal experience, we can tell you the water is anything but ‘hot’ – in fact, it’s freezing! But still worth doing! Standard itineraries will stop here and all operators will give you the option of swimming.

South Georgia and Falklands Island

If you have the time and the budget, these islands should not be missed! Packed with wildlife, they’re often termed the ‘Arctic Galapagos’ as most species don’t mind people sitting close by. Perfect for photographers. Literally millions of seals and penguins gather on these islands and the vast array of sea birds will keep you busy for days! Standard itineraries do not visit these islands. All operators offer an extended cruise option that does visit the islands, however, it is usually the most expensive option.

Activities are another important factor when budgeting for your cruise to Antarctica. Zodiac rides and shore landings are usually included in the cruise price, however, if you want to go kayaking, scuba diving, skiing, camping or climbing, you’ll need to arrange this with your operator and pay extra.

Prices for each activity vary considerably and you’ll need to ask your operator.

Kayaking is the most popular activity and generally costs around US$750 – $1,000 on top of your base cruise cost.

Camping, skiing and climbing all cost in the region of US$500 per person. Paddle-boarding is usually the cheapest activity costing around US$150, however, not every operator offers this option.

Scuba diving is one of the most expensive option and will cost you upwards of a US$1,000.

When booking your cruise to Antarctica, make sure you consult with your operator as to what activities are included on your Antarctica cruise. Most operators are very transparent about this, but it’s always good to check. If you are very keen on activities then some companies operate ‘Adventure Tours’ which is a combination of skiing, camping, climbing and kayaking all rolled into one.

For more information, please read our detailed activities page .

The first thing to make sure of is that your Antarctica cruise operator is a member of The International Association of Antarctic Tour Operators (IAATO) .

IAATO is an umbrella industry group that have set strict standards for all Antarctica cruise operators in an attempt to protect the pristine and unspoiled environment of Antarctica. Your tour operator should be a member of IAATO and adhere to their guidelines at all times.

Knowing Their Ship

All good Antarctica cruise operators should know their ship. This means being able to tell you exactly what cabin would suit you, what vessel would suit you and what on-board activities would suit you. For example: If you often feel slightly sea sick, but still want an ocean view, your operator should know which cabin is least affected by motion but still has an ocean view.

Food Quality & Options

All operators offer something slightly different when it comes to food. Make sure your Antarctica cruise company can cater to any specific food requirements you have. Ask how often hot meals are served. Some operators offer buffet style meals whilst others offer menu course. Dinner can range from one course to three – check with your operator.

Lectures & Guides

One of the most important aspect about your Antarctica cruise will be your lectures and your guides. When it comes to guides, a good ratio to look for is 1 guide for every 10 passengers. This varies slightly from operator to operator. As you’ll want tons of information on the Antarctic wildlife and scenery, the more guides the better. Most Antarctica cruise operators will provide highly knowledgeable biologists, naturalist and historians (depending on itinerary). On-board lectures should occur at least twice a day and really good operators will usually provide on-shore talks as well. Top cruises will often provide photography  experts also.

Eco-friendly

Choosing a conscientious Antarctica cruise operator is vitally important. The environment should be everyone’s number one concern and this should be reflected in your choice of operator. Many operators work with charities and there are several ships now that have a carbon neutral scheme.

Antarctica Video

Below is a stunning video detailing what it’s like to travel to the White Continent. Film by Chris Stanley.

Antarctica Cruise 2023/24 Itinerary Options

When choosing an Antarctica cruise itinerary, always make sure to look at the route map.

This is particularly important for the peninsula section as there are a number of varying routes around the region and some itineraries will simply visit the tip of the peninsula whilst other itineraries will explore further south.

Ones that explore further south are usually knows as ‘Antarctic Circle’ tours or something similar. Below are the most popular Antarctica 2023/24 cruise itineraries. 

Classic Antarctica Cruise

Prices from: US$7,000 pp | Trip Length: 10-12 days

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The Classic Antarctica itinerary is the quintessential Antarctic trip. By far the most popular option among travelers, the classic cruise takes its visitors across the Drake Passage, before exploring the Antarctic Peninsula. Highlights include several shore landings, swimming in Deception Bay and viewing whales, penguins and seals. Being the cheapest option, the classic cruise is the ideal option for tourists who want a first-time taste of Antarctica and for tourists on a budget.

Antarctica Circle Cruise

Prices from: US$8,500 pp | Trip Length: 14 days

The Antarctica Circle itinerary is the perfect option for those wishing to explore further down the continent’s peninsula. The circle cruise has a similar start to that of the Classic Antarctica Cruise. You begin by crossing the notorious Drake Passage before arriving at the peninsula. After exploring for several days, the circle cruise continues south taking in the western coast of Antarctica, an area that not many on earth have seen. You’ll celebrate with your fellow travelers and guides as you cross the Antarctic Circle.

Antarctica Via Falklands and South Georgia Cruise

Prices from: US$10,500 pp | Trip Length: 20-22 days

Probably the second most popular Antarctica itinerary available, the Antarctica via Falklands and South Georgia cruise offers travelers the chance to explore not only the stunning landscape of the peninsula, but also the wildlife rich islands to the north. The Galapagos of the Antarctic region, both the Falkland Islands and South Georgia are abundant in wildlife, often displaying over a million seals and penguins on one beach, including the charismatic King Penguins. This is generally one of the more expensive cruise, but certainly one of the best.

Antarctica Express Cruise

Prices from: US$8,500 pp | Trip Length: 8 days

The Antarctica Express itinerary is the ideal option for travellers who don’t have much time on their hands or for people who suffer from severe  sea sickness . The express cruise itinerary avoids the 2 day Drake Crossing, instead, travellers take a flight from Punta Arenas which then lands at King George Island. Once landed, you will have the chance to explore the island before embarking your ship to explore the peninsula region. Afterwards you take a flight back.

Antarctica Fly South – Cruise North Tour

Prices from: US$10,000 pp | Trip Length: 10 days

The Antarctica Fly South – Cruise North itinerary takes visitors one way by plane and the other by ship. The fly south -cruise north option is perfect for travelers who are short on time but still wish to experience the epic Drake Passage crossing. Many people believe the crossing is a rite-of-passage for Antarctic visitors and it’s certainly unforgettable. After flying in to  King George Island , you’ll board your  chosen ship and sail around the main peninsula attractions, viewing stunning landscapes and amazing wildlife.

Antarctica Circle via Falklands and South Georgia Cruise

Prices from: US$14,000 pp | Trip Length: 23 days

The Antarctica Circle via Falklands and South Georgia is one of the most in-depth Antarctic cruises that can be done. Not only do you take in the wildlife-rich islands of  South Georgia and the Falklands, but you also sail much further down south along the Peninsula than most other Antarctic itineraries to cross the Antarctic Circle! This really is one of the most amazing cruises on offer in the region and is a great option for  wildlife lovers and people with a real spirit for adventure.

Antarctica Basecamp Cruise

Prices from: US$7,500 pp | Trip Length: 11-12 days

The Basecamp Cruise is the ideal cruise for active people with an adventurous spirit! Unlike other peninsula cruises that explore the region, the Basecamp Cruise itinerary focuses on activities such as kayaking, mountaineering,  camping  and snowshoeing! The cruise is anchors in only one or two spots (basecamp) whilst you attempt all the fun activities on offer. Unlike other Antarctic itineraries, these activities are all included in the price. You not only conduct your activities, but you also get the chance to visit some of the most spectacular areas in the region including the  Lemaire Channel and Port Lockroy! You’ll also get the chance to get up close and personal with some of the amazing wildlife.

Epic Antarctica

Prices from: US$15,000 pp | Trip Length: 22 days (weather dependent)

The Epic Antarctica itinerary is probably the most comprehensive Antarctica itinerary ever offered! Only polar researchers spend more time on the ice. You take in both sides of the Antarctic Peninsula, including the much less visited Weddell Sea region. You explore the peninsula for an unprecedented 16 days whilst also heading further south to cross the Antarctic Circle! This is the perfect cruise itinerary for adventure lovers who want to explore every inch of the Antarctic Peninsula and its surrounding islands.

Antarctica via Chilean Fjords Cruise

Prices from: US$8,500 pp | Trip Length: 15-18 days

The Antarctica Peninsula via the Chilean Fjords itinerary provides a fantastic mix of landscapes! On the one hand you experience the incredible harsh and stunning environment of Antarctica, on the other you experience the isolated islands, tall green mountains and quiet bays of the Chilean Fjords. The contrast is something to behold! Your trip takes off from Punta Arenas where you explore the fjords for a few days before heading across the  Drake Passage to reach the Antarctic Peninsula where you make daily landings.

East Antarctica Cruise

Prices from: US$16,000 pp | Trip Length: 27 days (weather dependent)

The East Antarctica itinerary is one of the few Antarctic trips that leaves from New Zealand. The journey explores one of the least visited places on earth – East Antarctica. Your cruise explores wildlife rich islands, historical huts and desolate landscapes of ice and rock. You’ll visit Mawson’s hut, see the only breeding area of Royal penguins and even spot an Emperor penguin or two! This is the perfect cruise for wildlife lovers and people with an adventurous spirit. Please note that this is a long cruise in ice conditions and exact shore landings cannot be guaranteed.

Antarctic Peninsula and Coastal Patagonia Cruise

Prices from: US$11,000 pp | Trip Length: 18 days

The Antarctica Peninsula and Coastal Patagonia itinerary is the perfect option for people who not only wish to explore Antarctica, but also explore the coast of Chile and Patagonia. The cruise sets out from Ushuaia across the Drake Passage before reaching the Antarctic Peninsula. After exploring the region and making a number of landings, the cruise then sail back across the passage and begins its journey northwards along the Chilean coastline. This Antarctica itinerary takes in stunning fjords, isolated villages and vibrant towns as you make your way up to  Santiago .

Ross Sea Cruise

Prices from: US$23,000 pp | Trip Length: 23-35 days

One of the most remote areas on our planet, the Ross Sea is a region steeped in human exploration history. Few people have ever stepped foot in the region and the area provides a fascinating mix between incredible  wildlife and polar exploration. The highlights are without doubt the Ross Sea ice shelf and the wildlife rich sub-Antarctic islands of New Zealand. People with a sense of curiosity will be delighted every day as you visit  penguin rookeries, seal colonies and historic exploration huts.

Weddell Sea Cruise

Prices from: US$10,000 pp | Trip Length: 11 days

The Weddell Sea itinerary is a true expedition voyage. If you fancy something totally unique, then this may be the cruise for you. After crossing the Drake Passage, you begin by exploring the western peninsula like other Antarctic itineraries, however, you then sail around to the eastern side of the peninsula to explore a region less traveled. Here you will take several helicopter journeys and search for the famous emperor penguins, an animal that is rarely seen, even in Antarctica.

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Other Useful Resources

Antarctica Packing List

Things to do in Antarctica

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Antarctica Travel Resources

If you would like to know more about Antarctica cruises please leave a comment below and we will endeavor to get back to you within 24 hours! Alternatively, please see our FAQ page here . If you would like to get a cruise quote, please use this form.

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Tags: Antarctica cruise, how to choose an Antarctica cruise, choosing the right Antarctica cruise, deciding on an Antarctica cruise, best Antarctica cruise

If you found this article useful please share it...

inbal caspi says

3 years ago

Burnham Arlidge says

Larry Eisenberg says

6 months ago

How far is King George Island from the peninsular? How much time does that trip take? Is that sea rough and prone to causing seasickness?

Burnham says

5 months ago

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This Cutting-edge Expedition Ship Takes Travelers to Antarctica in Cool Scandinavian Style

Viking Polaris is a sleek expedition vessel that takes travelers to the Southern Ocean — but doesn't skimp on comfort. Here's a closer look at what it's like on board.

Staterooms and Suites

Bars and restaurants, where viking polaris sails, shore excursions, amenities and entertainment, family-friendly offerings, accessibility.

Courtesy of Viking Cruises

To be honest, Antarctica was never on my must-visit list. I don’t hold anything against the continent, of course, but it always seemed to me that Antarctica’s a place for rough-and-ready types: people more interested in the frigid outdoors than the creature comforts on board. Trudging through knee-deep snow to spot seals or enduring biting winds while hoping to see a humpback? I figured that was somebody else’s ideal adventure, not mine.

How wrong I was.

On a recent trip to Antarctica aboard Viking Polaris , I not only discovered the multidimensional allure of the ice — but I also realized that you don’t have to sacrifice amenities for adventure.

That’s thanks in large part to Polaris , which was launched in 2022. One of two identical expedition ships from Viking, this 378-passenger vessel has much in common with the nine ocean and 90 river ships of the brand that’s a favorite of Travel + Leisure readers . Aboard this newly constructed expedition ship, the décor is an elegant interpretation of modern Scandinavian style and there are no inside cabins, a particularly important consideration for trips on the sometimes rocky Drake Passage.

As is the case on all Viking ships, some shore excursions and meals in specialty restaurants are included in the fare, as are wine and beer with meals. Viking’s signature emphasis on onboard enrichment is demonstrated through partnerships with the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration and the Cornell Lab of Ornithology, among others, who help with programming on Polaris .

But as plush as the ship may be, it can’t compete with the surroundings. In spite of my skepticism — I’ve always considered myself a warm-weather cruiser — Antarctica’s dreamy, otherworldly landscape was a revelation. Penguins, whales, and towering icebergs were tantalizingly close, seemingly just a sliding glass door away.

The ship’s expedition team worked like a well-oiled machine, ensuring that guests understood the protocols for behavior ashore and abided by the International Association of Antarctica Tour Operators (IAATO) regulations to ensure the protection of wildlife and the environment.

With its capacity of 378 passengers, Polaris is one of the largest ships operating in the Southern Ocean that’s allowed to take guests ashore. Because no more than 100 people are allowed at a given landing site at a time, trips to the ice for us were fewer in number — and shorter overall — than they can be on smaller vessels.

If maximizing your time on terra firma is a priority, Polaris might not be the best choice for you. If, on the other hand, you like your shoreside adventures with a touch of luxury back on board, this ship might be just right. It certainly changed my mind.

Read on for more about Viking Polaris , the ship’s many amenities, the feel of the onboard experience, and details on the vessel’s Antarctic itineraries.

Viking Polaris

• Itineraries in Antarctica that put guests face-to-face with penguins, whales, and more — and navigate some of the most breathtaking landscapes on the planet.
• All staterooms have floor-to-ceiling windows that open, allowing for ocean views, iceberg photography, and bracing Antarctic breezes from the comfort of your cabin.
• Mamsen’s is a daytime dining option that celebrates Nordic specialties, including heart-shaped waffles, which are served all day with sour cream, jam, and brown cheese.
• The onboard spa offers complimentary traditional hot-and-cold therapies, including a snow grotto, thermal beds, an open-air hot tub, and cold bucket shower. 

Polaris has half a dozen stateroom categories. At the top end, the 1,200-square-foot owner’s suite on deck 6 has its own dining room, living room, butler’s pantry, and outdoor lounge with a hot tub. Entry-level Nordic Balcony suites clock in at 215 square feet, with a floor-to-ceiling window — known on Viking as a Nordic Balcony — that partially retracts to let fresh air in. Depending on the category you book, you may get priority boarding on embarkation day and access to your stateroom from as early as 11 a.m.

There are no inside cabins on Polaris — you’re here for the views, after all — and staterooms of all categories are comfortable and elegantly furnished in Viking’s signature Scandinavian style: think muted tones of beige, blue, white, and gray, with blond woods and wool accents. All suites have generous closet space, and a heated drying closet to store outdoor clothing and footwear — another key consideration on polar cruises.

I was particularly impressed by the heated bathroom floor, roomy walk-in shower (never a given on expedition ships), and capacious bathroom drawers in my Deluxe Nordic Balcony stateroom, one step up from the entry level category. (I would’ve liked a volume control for the in-cabin speaker, over which announcements were often made.)

All cabins have a mini fridge that’s restocked as needed with soft drinks and snacks at no charge, a Nespresso coffee maker, two pairs of binoculars, and a small library of books. Bedside and deskside outlets have both 110- and 220-volt sockets and USB ports. Every guest receives a Viking-branded Helly Hansen jacket and lightweight puffer, ordered online pre-cruise, and passengers are loaned waterproof pants and rubber boots that are essential for landings.

Viking doesn’t charge for dining in its specialty restaurants, and depending on your stateroom cabin category, you can make as many as four guaranteed reservations at both premium restaurants up to 100 days in advance. Manfredi’s is an elegant Italian trattoria (the bistecca Fiorentina is a standout) and at the Restaurant, expect a menu of typical formal dining staples, such as New York strip, beef tenderloin, and poached salmon. Beyond the allotted reservations, guests can dine at either restaurant as many times as they like, provided there’s availability. (Room service is also complimentary — and guests on my sailing were raving about the southern-fried chicken.)

Elsewhere on board, World Café is the all-day buffet, with live cooking stations and open kitchens. Of note are two stations within the Café: one has raw seafood and sushi, with an ever-evolving lineup of rolls and nigiri, while the other is a pick-your-cut grill with a selection of aged steaks, pork chops, and burgers.

Aquavit Terrace is another dining venue, overlooking the swimming pools, with seating to accommodate overspill from the buffet. Its light-filled Aquavit bar — look up to admire the dog sled suspended from the ceiling — is a good spot for pre-dinner cocktails and ocean views.

Mamsen’s is a small restaurant serving Norwegian cuisine for breakfast, lunch, and afternoon tea. The grab-and-go venue offers a smörgåsbord of open-face sandwiches, traditional split pea soup, desserts, and made-to-order heart-shaped Norwegian waffles that were, for me at least, irresistible. 

Across the ship, passengers with food restrictions are welcome to request appropriate substitutions.

Several bars play to the convivial spirit of most Antarctica-bound passengers. Most popular is the one in the Living Room, where everyone gathers to read, join group activities, and enthusiastically compare notes on the day’s landings. Second in popularity is the Hide, an intimate lounge secreted on Deck 1. By day, it’s a quiet spot for reading or undisturbed post-lunch naps. In the evenings it takes on a speakeasy vibe, the bartender serving from a tightly edited selection of premium spirits with the cozy mood set by a water-vapor fireplace. At the front of the ship, Pap’s bar in the Explorer Lounge is a good place for cocktails with a view; the Viking Bar outside Manfredi’s and the Restaurant is handy for aperitifs.

From October through March, the Antarctic summer, Polaris cruises to the White Continent from Ushuaia, Argentina. Viking’s 13-day Antarctic Explorer itineraries begin with an overnight in Buenos Aires then a flight to Ushuaia for embarkation. After a two-day crossing of the Drake Passage, passengers spend the next seven days exploring Antarctica before returning to Ushuaia.

In March, after a final Antarctic cruise, Polaris heads north, following the coast of South America, transiting the Panama Canal, and stopping in cities such as New York and Toronto. The ship typically reaches the Great Lakes in May, where it spends the Northern Hemisphere summer until it turns south once again.

As is the case on all Viking ships, there’s at least one complimentary shore excursion every day, weather permitting. On my journey aboard Polaris , we typically got to choose from two: a Zodiac ride to a landing site — or a tour of the surrounding seas if landing wasn’t possible — or a 45-minute jaunt on what Viking calls its special operations boats, each with a dozen comfortable seats. To control capacity on land, both options must be booked in advance. (In Antarctica, unpredictable wind speeds and ever-changing sea conditions mean that no landing can ever be guaranteed, so expect adjustments along the way: midway through my sailing, the captain had already revised landing locations four times.)

Still, there were several opportunities to set foot on the seventh continent. I was blown away by the sight — and, honestly, the overwhelming stench — of the Gentoo penguin colony at Damoy Point. Depending on the time of year, other penguin species will be around, as will fur and Weddell seals. On one excursion, I caught an awe-inspiring glimpse of a humpback’s forked tail, as it arced briefly above the surface of Fournier Bay.

During one trip on the special operations boat, whizzing through the Melchior Islands, I found myself unexpectedly impressed by the massive and majestic icebergs. Guests can also get on the water by signing up for guided tours by two-person kayaks; Polaris carries 12 of them.

The only activity with an extra cost is a 30-minute dive on one of two submersibles aboard. The $500 trip, with as many as five other passengers, takes the adventurous few as far as 500 feet below the surface, looking for animals including penguins and the rare phantom jellyfish. The 11-ton, egg-yolk yellow subs are, it’s worth mentioning, named Ringo and George; the expedition ship Viking Octantis carries twin subs named John and Paul.

The best entertainment on Polaris is what’s going on outside the ship, and the onboard enrichment program is focused on wildlife, history, topography, and oceanography. On my sailing, there were lots of talks about the animals we’d see and very detailed briefings, held in the Aula theater, about our landing sites. The team of expedition guides on my cruise included an ornithologist, cetacean specialist, naturalist, and an ecotoxicologist. These scientists encouraged guest participation in their real-world research, whether it was collecting water samples to gauge the presence of microplastics or remotely shooting underwater video footage to measure the abundance and diversity of the region’s sea life.

Polaris and its sibling ship Octantis are the only commercial cruise vessels authorized to release weather balloons into the atmosphere. Once per departure, guests can watch a launch; data from the sensors on the balloons is used by meteorologists to inform weather forecasts all over the world.

Besides all the expedition and science activities, entertainment options are somewhat limited: expect to find low-key things like art classes, nautical knot demonstrations, and movie and documentary screenings. In the evenings, a classical or contemporary musical duo would play in the Explorer Lounge and the Living Room, where loveseats and chaises draped in reindeer hides are arranged around water-vapor fireplaces. When they weren’t out on the ice, my fellow passengers occupied themselves with books, board games, and moments of solitude. I enjoyed walking the ship and taking in the many paintings and photographs centered around the theme of Antarctic exploration, which are detailed in an audio tour available through Viking’s mobile app.

Spa lovers, like me, should enjoy the ship’s deck 2 sanctuary; I found it a heavenly haven after spending hours ashore. The wellness area is filled with traditional Nordic hot-and-cold therapies, including things such as a jetted pool, stone thermal beds, a “snow grotto” of constantly falling shaved ice, an ice-bucket shower, and a sauna. There’s also a badestamp , or hot tub, with a window permanently open to the ocean, for sightseeing while you soak.

Polaris also has an impressively large fitness center, one side equipped with cardio machines, the other a spacious wood-floored studio for yoga, meditation, or weights. (I was able to seamlessly stream Peloton workouts on my phone in the gym, thanks to the ship’s strong Wi-Fi.) The ship also has a hair salon and, on deck 3, a small boutique with sundries — and much-coveted Viking Antarctica jacket patches that my fellow passengers had to have.

This isn’t a ship for kids: all Viking cruises, including those on the Viking Polaris, are adults-only, with a minimum age of 18.

Two Nordic Junior Suites on Deck 4 comply with ADA regulations. That said, Viking requires all passengers headed to Antarctica to present a doctor’s attestation that they are healthy enough to travel on such an expedition, with no pre-existing conditions that could require the sort of advanced medical attention that’s unavailable in this remote corner of the world. Because all Antarctica landings are “wet,” with cruisers climbing from the ship to an inflatable tender then onto shore in water up to the calves, some people with limited mobility may not find these trips to be practical, in spite of the accommodations on board.

Related Articles

Antarctica Ross Sea Cruises 2025

Antarctica's ross sea cruises, nature so grand there are no words to describe it.

BOOK EARLY & SAVE: Save 20% on Heritage Suites and 15% on Worsley Suites in 2025 & 2026 Ross Sea cruises when you book by 31 July 2024!*

Expedition cruise to one of the most remote places on Earth, and one of the world’s last pristine ecosystems, into the ‘heart of Antarctica,’ the Ross Sea. Due to the pack ice, access to the Ross Sea is limited to just two months, January and February when wildlife thrives.

Cruise from New Zealand and walk on the ice with Emperor Penguins, visit the world’s largest and oldest Adélie penguin colony, and observe Snow Petrels, Southern Fulmars and many more species of bird. Enjoy magnificent whale watching opportunities including Minke, Orca and Southern Right Whales which feed in these nutrient-rich waters. Explore massive penguin rookeries and witness the astounding Ross Ice Shelf and enormous icebergs. Step inside the historic huts of Shackleton and Scott, observe Mt Erebus and visit McMurdo Station and Scott Base (weather permitting). Each day is an epic adventure of discovery – as seen on documentary travel shows Go Further South and Antarctica from Above.

Join us, New Zealand's family-owned and operated pioneering expedition cruise company, as we explore the Ross Sea and Subantarctic Islands aboard our luxury 140-guest flagship. Heritage Expeditions is the most experienced Ross Sea and Subantarctic operator with more than 35 years of experience exploring these regions. Purpose-built for adventure, Heritage Adventurer, boasts the highest passenger ship ice class rating (1A Super) and has a fleet of Zodiacs for landings and excursions.

Antarctica Photo & Video Gallery

Antarctica season 2025 & 2026, join us in antarctica's extraordinary ross sea, in the wake of scott & shackleton: ross sea antarctica.

2025 - SAVE UP TO 20%* 7 Jan – 3 Feb 2 Feb – 1 Mar 

2026 - SAVE UP TO 20%* 10 Jan – 6 Feb  5 Feb – 4 Mar 

Bluff, New Zealand and Return

• 12 incredible days to explore remote Antarctica
• Walk in Sir Ernest Shackleton’s footsteps at his hut at Cape Royds
• Venture back in time at Borchgrevink’s Hut at Cape Adare 
• Gaze at the towering figure of Mt Erebus amongst a dramatic landscape of glacial ice
• Visit Subantarctic Snares, Auckland, Campbell & Macquarie Islands
• Spend the day hiking amongst megaherbs on the unforgettable landscapes of Enderby and Campbell Islands
• Visit Enderby Island in sea lion breeding season and watch beach master bulls defend their harem
• See the festivities of Royal Penguins on Macquarie Island at their peak
• Marvel at the abundance of wildlife with Emperor Penguins, Royals, Kings, Adelie Penguins, whales, seals and more.
• Observe the raucous Adelie Penguins with chicks about to start fledging  
• Catch the peak flowering of the megaherbs in the Subantarctic Campbell Island
• Experience the beauty of 24-hour sunlight in the Ross Sea
• Spot Orca feeding amongst the ice, especially in McMurdo Sound
• Navigate through pack ice that guards the entrance to the Ross Sea

SUITE DEALS! Save 20% on Heritage Suites and 15% on Worsley Suites in 2025/26!* *T&Cs apply, new bookings only, excludes landing fees when booked by 31 July 2024.

Get the Brochure

About Heritage Expeditions

Ambassadors for conservation, pioneers of discovery, and leaders in expedition travel to the world’s best-kept secrets..

For 40 years, Heritage Expeditions has pioneered voyages to some of the most wild and biologically rich regions on the planet. Our mission is to increase awareness and conservation of the natural world through responsible expedition travel.

Expert Team

Our team of naturalists, historians, biologists and ornithologists bring an enormous wealth of experience, knowledge and passion to our expeditions, both in the field and onboard our ship during our lecture series.

Our new flagship, the 140-guest Heritage Adventurer, combines the highest passenger ship iceclass rating with an international flair and luxury amenities. Guests enjoy spacious suites, elegant common areas and cuisine prepared by top chefs.

Heritage Adventurer

Heritage Adventurer,  formerly known as  MS Hanseatic ,   is a true pioneering expedition vessel of exceptional pedigree. Originally designed for 184 guests, Heritage Adventurer now welcomes just 140 travellers ensuring spacious, stylish and comfortable voyages, and with a fleet of 14 Zodiacs to maximise the adventure. Savor daily international gourmet cuisine from talented chefs across two lavish restaurants, and settle into spacious and well-appointed accommodations each night. Enjoy 360-degree views and comfortable sun loungers on the Observation Deck, relax in the Observation Lounge with library, bar and panoramic views, and reinvigorate in the heated salt water pool, well-equipped gym, hot tub, sauna and steam room. 

Technical Specs

Year Built: 1991

Shipyard: Rauma, Finland

Classification: Lloyds 1AS, GL E4

Accommodation: 140 guests

Length: 124 metres

Cruising Speed: 12 knots

Zodiacs: 14

What our travellers are saying:

We are overwhelmed by the excellence of absolutely every aspect of this trip. The staff were so professional, engaging, helpful, knowledgeable, and friendly. We felt safe and well looked after at all times. I doubt having that level of experience and knowledge about Antarctica in one place has not been done before! We were amazed by the quality of the meals, and the cabins and life on board were also more than expected. Please DO NOT CHANGE ANYTHING. It was worth every cent... We truly believe you guys are one of the best travel companies we have ever dealt with... Ben and Ros

We had such a wondrous time on the ship... still reeling from it all, it was just fabulous and the thousands of penguins we saw were just amazing and exceeded all our expectations! Four new species for us seen was just amazing...Snares, Royals, SIX EMPERORS and an Erect-crested! We were in penguin heaven! We've now seen 15 of the 18 penguins in the wild! Thanks to wonderful Heritage – you have all made dreams come true for us. We loved the islands, the ice, all the birds, whales, seals, ice, crazy sea, calm sea, bergs, sky, peace, beauty and wonder of so far south. We loved the walks on land, all the landings, Zodiac cruises, food, crew, staff, passengers. It was all just fantastic.

Julie and Tim

A fantastic time! Trip of a lifetime and memories to last for ever. To experience the historic huts and especially to go into Scott's hut at Cape Evans where my grandfather had been in the early 1900s and 60s... Rodney kept on saying "You don't know how blessed you are..." and he was so right. Thank you for your help, advise and assistance you gave me in the months leading up to my departure. Robin

Choose Your Adventure!

Select your voyage(s) to receive the e-brochure.

For all voyages, exact landings depend on weather and ice conditions and wildlife sightings can never be guaranteed; however, our 40+ years of experience in operating expeditions mean that we are well equipped to make the most of the conditions at the time. Past trip logs and species lists are available for all expeditions. 

• DESTINATIONS

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• Capain’s Log
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TOP ANTARCTICA CRUISES: Destinations, Ports, Itineraries, and Resources

by development | Aug 11, 2021 | places , Top 21 | 0 comments

TOP ANTARCTICA CRUISES:

Destinations, ports, itineraries, alternatives, and resources.

In this article you will find:

Antarctica Cruises and Travel

Exhilarating and expensive polar tourism, 44 interesting facts about antarctica, pros and cons of cruising the antarctica, popular embarkation ports and ports of call, things to see and do, pre- and post-trip extensions, sample itineraries of companies operating in antarctica, recommended resources: books, movies, videos.

By   Ronald L. Krannich, Ph.D.

The Antarctica has become a popular bucket list destination for many people in search of unique water, ice, wildlife, and outdoor experiences in a beautiful blue and white, but cold and desolate, polar setting. Indeed, many travelers claim an Antarctica cruise was their “best ever” travel experience. This is an intriguing area of killer whales (orcas), cute penguins, beached seals, soaring albatross, turbulent seas, awesome icebergs, and a strange dead-cold desert.

Here’s what’s going on in this compelling cold, windy, and wild world that attracts nearly 60,000 curious visitors each year who come in a variety of research, expedition, and cruise ships to study, sightsee, kayak, trek, ski, climb, scuba dive, swim, camp, make new friends, visit research stations and old explorer huts, challenge themselves, and learn exciting new things.

Since rugged sea- and ice-worthy vessels are the primary way to reach this southern-most continent, everyone visiting Antarctica more or less becomes an expedition cruiser . Some arrive in private jets or high-tech luxury yachts equipped with submarines and helicopters (Scenic, Seabourn, and Viking). Others tour in small and aging exploration icebreakers with basic cabins fitted with bunkbeds and offering few creature comforts. And still others arrive in small and mid-sized expedition ships (100 to 500 passengers) that offer many comforts between these two extremes. Several small luxury cruise lines, such as Seabourn, Silversea, Ponant, Viking, Scenic, and Atlas Ocean Voyages visit the Antarctica with ice-class vessels. A few large mainstream cruise lines (Princess, Holland America, Celebrity, and Norwegian), with ships carrying from 2,000 to 3,800 passengers and crew members, include sightseeing cruises to the Antarctica; their passengers do not set foot on land. And several expedition companies, such as Hurtigruten, Lindblad Expeditions, Quark Expeditions, and Aurora Expeditions – the true polar expedition cruise pioneers offering both water and onshore adventures — have long been in this cold and windy business. And some well-heeled visitors skip the often turbulent 2-day cruise experience through the Drake Passage and quickly fly over the Passage in private jets that land on special landing strips on King George Island and at the South Pole.

The Antarctic is truly an exhilarating (amazing and weird) experience for travelers who now have many pricey sea, air, and land options to experience the wonders of this place from multiple embarkation points – Argentina, Uruguay, Chile, New Zealand, Australia, and South Africa – that tackle different areas of the continent (Antarctic Peninsula, Weddell Sea, Ross Ice Shelf, and South Pole). The Antarctic Peninsula includes many research stations as well as such beautiful places as Paradise Bay and Dorian Bay. The most visited islands are the South Shetland Islands (includes King George, Elephant, and Deception).

Antarctica is unlike any other place you’ll ever visit – the world’s underbelly known for its water, ice, majestic scenery, winds, and wildlife of marine mammals (whales, seals, and penguins) as well as a triumphant and tragic history of polar exploration during the Heroic Age of Antarctic Exploration (1897–1922) when such explorers as Amundsen, Scott, Borchgrevink, Mawson, and Shackleton became world celebrities (see “Recommended Resources” section at the end of this article). It’s also a polar desert that receives less than .8” of precipitation a year. If you’re looking for polar bears, reindeer, fox, and wolves, you’re at the wrong pole – that’s the signature wildlife of the North Pole and Arctic Circle. Bring your cameras and put on your ship-issued foul weather gear – this is going to be an unusual experience you’ll want to document as evidence supporting your once-in-a-lifetime Antarctic adventure stories.

It’s an adventure, it’s exhilarating, and it’s not cheap. Indeed, get ready to spend $1,000 to $3,000 a day to cruise this fascinating world of water, ice, aquatic wildlife, scientific outposts, traces of exploration madness, new climate challenges, luxury yachts, and annual marathon footrace. But that’s just for starters. For a lot more money ($10,000 per day) you can fly into the South Pole from Cape Town, South Africa on a Gulfstream jet and camp and trek there for a few days ( White Desert ) – the ultimate luxury adventure in Antarctica. Or, if you’re part of the adventuresome super-rich class, you can skip cruising altogether and fly your private jet onto the only runway designed for private jets in Antarctica! Perhaps this is another place where billionaires go to escape from millionaires – the ultra-rich who may also occasionally escape to exclusive private Caribbean islands , such as Petit St. Vincent, Canouan, Neckter, Moskito, and Mustique.

Whether you embark from the tip of South America or New Zealand, fly in from Chile or South Africa, survive the challenges of the turbulent Drake Passage, or learn to walk and trek on ice without the convenience of restroom facilities, the Antarctic is simply an adventure of a lifetime – a trip that makes bucket list-travel both exciting and worthwhile.

The Antarctica is different. It’s a “Travel-Plus” destination – filled with the unexpected and unpredictable, starting with the weather, which can go through four seasons in a single day! So be prepared to encounter some of the following realities when you visit the world’s driest, highest, coldest, windiest, most barren, inhospitable, darkest (winter), brightest (summer), timeless, directionless, and weirdest place on Earth:

• The 5th largest continent (5.5 million square miles) — 1½ the size of the U.S., twice the size of Australia, and much larger than Europe.
• Boasts the highest elevation of all continents.
• A dry polar desert that receives less than .8” precipitation each year, which primarily falls in milder coastal areas.
• Embarking from Ushuaia, Argentina, the Antarctic Peninsula is the best place to start your onshore visit. It offers the most beautiful settings, the most diverse wildlife, the least frigid climate, the most inviting shorelines and base camps, and the shortest distance between continents (South America and Antarctica). The inhospitable desert interior is cold, windy, and devoid of wildlife.
• Rules for visiting the Antarctic are governed by the International Association of Antarctica Tour Operators (IAATO) . Always remember to “leave no crumbs behind,” “take your poop and pee with you,” and “penguins have the right away.”
• Southern-most active volcanos are found on Ross Island and Deception Island .
• Surrounded on all sides by the Southern Ocean (also known as the Antarctic Ocean).
• The Earth’s most alien landscape comparable to another planet; visitors walk unsteadily on ice and rocks.
• Coldest place on Earth – lowest temperate ever recorded of 128.5˚ Fahrenheit in 1983 at Vostok Station . The Antarctic Peninsula (“ banana belt ”), which is the size of the UK and the target area for most cruises, has the mildest climate because of its warm ocean location. Antarctica’s interior is unbelievably cold and windy, forbidden territory for most humans and animals.
• Windiest continent – up to 200 mile per hour winds called the  katabatic winds .
• The interior Dry Valleys are the driest places on earth – low humidity, gravel, dust, and almost no snow or ice cover.
• Antarctic has no time zones – research stations adapt the time zones of their host countries.
• All directions in Antarctic are North.
• Antarctic first discovered in 1820 by Russian naval officers, cartographers, and expedition explorers Fabian Gottlieb von Bellingshausen and Mikhail Lazarev . They and several subsequent explorers were part of the famous Heroic Age of Antarctic Exploration that began at the end of the 19th century and ended after World War I (with the failed Shackleton–Rowett Expedition  of 1921–1922).
• Norwegian Roald Amundsen was the first to reach the South Pole in 1911.
• Famous British polar explorer Robert Falcon Scott and his party starved and froze to death in 1912 during a failed exploration at the Ross Ice Shelf . This critical expedition is chronicled in Apsley Cherry-Garrard’s 1922 memoir of Scott’s tragic Terra Nova expedition to the South Pole in 1910–1913 — The Worst Journey in the World .
• The legendary British explorer Ernest Shackleton made three failed attempts to cross Antarctica via the South Pole. His final attempt in 1916 ended in disaster, but he and his party of 28 (27 crew + 1 stole away) survived beyond all odds and became the subject of one of the most exciting polar exploration and leadership books ever written – Alfred Lansing’s Endurance: Shackleton’s Incredible Voyage   (1959).
• Largest gateway city to Antarctica is Buenos Aires, Argentina, but the major departure port for cruise ships is Ushuaia, Argentina, a 3-hour flight south of Buenos Aires.
• You can fly into Antarctica (land on King George Island) via Punta Arenas, Chile; one company ( White Desert ) flies from South Africa to a special jet-friendly landing strip at the South Pole.
• Three luxury cruise lines (Scenic, Seabourn, and Viking) come equipped with submarines and helicopters to explore the Antarctic.
• Scuba diving, swimming, and camping are increasingly popular activities for brave and adventuresome visitors to Antarctica.
• Antarctic lands and seas are home to over 9,000 animal species. The predominant species are whales, seals, penguins, and birds. The penguin colonies alone include 5 million penguins.
• Orcas are also known as killer whales. But they are not whales — just big and ferocious porpoises.
• Leopard seals (also known as the sea leopard), which can weigh 440 to 1,320 pounds, are the most dangerous Antarctic animals – not to be petted! Their only natural predator is the killer whale (orca).
• There are no indigenous peoples or permanent residents native to Antarctica.
• Antarctic is home to over 4,000 temporary residents in the summer and 1,000+ temporary residents in the winter – primarily researchers assigned to the 80 research stations operated by 30 countries. The majority of researchers represent five countries – USA, Russia, Chile, Argentina, and Australia.
• You can visit several active Antarctic research stations through Polar Latitudes and a few other tour operators.
• You can have your passport stamped and mail a postcard from the world’s most remote post office at Dorian Bay (don’t hold your breath – the mail may take 8 weeks to arrive).
• Over 50 research, expedition, and luxury cruise ships cruise to Antarctica each year. Some are small research vessels with fewer than 25 passengers whereas others are large mainstream cruise ships with more than 3,000 passengers. Most expedition ships carry fewer than 500 passengers; many of these are in the 100 to 200 passenger range.
• Nearly 60,000 tourists visit Antarctica each year – representing a 100% increase in tourist traffic over a 10-year period. More and more cruise lines are planning polar expeditions as part of their adventure and bucket list collection of cruises experiences.
• Ushuaia, Argentina , at the very tip of South America, is the major embarkation port for cruises to Antarctica. It’s an attractive city for planning a 2-3 day extension.
• The Drake Passage is one of the most challenging areas to cruise because of the often-turbulent convergence of the Atlantic and Pacific oceans (can expect to ride 20-40’ waves). Taking a cruise from Ushuaia through the Drake Passage may result in two days of seasickness each way. Be forewarned and prepared with medications, although it may not be as bad as the 19th century stories of ill-equipped wooden boats navigating this area. It definitely is a “Right of Passage” for tourists. An alternative (more expensive but a real time-saver) is to fly over the Drake Passage. A two-hour flight offered by  Antarctica21  and  Intrepid Travel  goes from Punta Arenas (gateway to Chilean Patagonia ) to the South Shetland Islands (King George Island is the largest island) where visitors initially board their Antarctic expedition ship.
• Most cruise ships visit the Antarctic Peninsula that stretches north to South America and is known for Lemaire Channel , Paradise Harbor , and Port Lockroy with its many icebergs.
• Covered by an average of 1-mile-thick ice; in some areas the ice is 3 miles thick.
• Includes over 400 underground (subglacial) lakes. Lake Vostok is about the size of Lake Ontario and is found 2.5 miles underground.
• Holds 70% of the world’s fresh water and 90% of the world’s ice.
• No plant life exists.
• Includes a massive mountain range, Gamburtsev Mountains .
• 10 people born in Antarctica – first birth took place in 1979.
• No one owns Antarctica, but visitors need permission to go there from one of the 53 countries that signed the Antarctic Treaty (most tourists receive de facto permission through their cruise line).
• Only ships with 500 or fewer passengers can land in Antarctic; larger-sized ships can only cruise by (the water equivalent of a “drive by”).
• The Antarctic Peninsula is the staging area for the annual (since 2011) 250-kilometer multi-stage desert footrace sponsored by RacingthePlanet . In November/December, participants spend up to 12 hours a day onshore where no one has yet to complete all 250 challenging kilometers in the ice, snow, and sketchy weather conditions! Calling the Antarctic “The Last Desert,” participants in this ultramarathon also must complete similar footraces, crossings, and marches through three other grueling and hot deserts – Atacama (Chile), Gobi (Mongolia), and Namib (Namibia).
• Only 100 passengers can go onshore at a time; small ships with fewer than 100 passengers are ideally suited for everyone boarding zodiacs and going onshore together.
• The ice cover is melting at an alarming rate, especially around the fast warming Western Antarctic Peninsula, due to climate change . If all of Antarctica’s ice melted, the Earth’s sea level would rise by 200 feet!

Pros and Cons of Visiting the Antarctica

• Many different types of cruises – from luxury to exploration – are available from two major embarkation points – South America (Chile and Argentina) and the lower South Pacific (New Zealand and Australia). A few cruises now depart from South Africa – Cape Town and Port Elizabeth. The shortest, least expensive, and most interesting cruises depart from Ushuaia, Argentina.
• Intimate small ship experiences.
• Offer cruising, trekking, and even camping opportunities.
• Interesting onboard enrichment programs and experts related to the Antarctica.
• Amazing visual experiences and great photo opportunities.
• Fascinating wildlife, especially majestic Killer, Humpback, and Sperm whales (7 species), 17 species of penguins (most common being Emperor, Adelie, Gentoo, and King), and 46 species of birds, including the seemingly forever aloof albatross (can stay in flight for 10,000 miles in a single journey and circumnavigate the globe in 46 days!).
• Very experienced expedition cruise companies.
• Interesting cruise mates concerned with environmental issues.
• Unusual and unforgettable travel experience.
• Unexpected fine dining experiences.
• Few people but lots of fascinating wildlife and ice formations.
• A unique and satisfying personal adventure.
• Photographer’s paradise.
• Pristine and transforming landscapes.
• Great embarkation cities – Santiago and Buenos Aires .
• Wonderful cruising through the Chilean fjords ( Patagonia ) prior to departing from Punta Arenas (Chile) or Ushuaia (Argentina) for crossing the Southern Ocean to Antarctica.
• Focus on science and ecology.
• Cute, picturesque, and friendly penguins.
• Interesting kayaking and trekking activities.
• Learn a great deal about the environment and climate change.
• Very educated, experienced, and likeable cruise mates, crew, and staff members.
• Survive the challenging Drake Passage cruise experience which wasn’t bad at all.
• Experience the Southern Lights (Aurora Australia) between March and September.
• Ecotourism in action – several expedition cruise companies minimizing impact of tourism on a fragile environment by practicing responsible tourism.
• Very expensive cruises – expect to pay luxury cruise prices of $500 to $10,000 per person per day for what may turn out to be less these luxurious adventure experiences (“roughing it gently”). Here’s what the really rich get for $10,000 a day!
• Limited onshore experiences – after seeing whales, seals, and penguins, and not interested in scuba diving, swimming, and camping, what else is there to see and do?
• Zero Internet connections and limited international communication.
• Very cold, windy, and barren place – but cold may be a “pro” for some who find the climate exhilarating.
• Few standard onboard cruise ship experiences.
• Long wait time to go onshore because of the large ship size.
• Dreaded two-day Drake Passage crossing + major bouts of seasickness – but a Drake Passage experience is a “pro” for some cruisers who have it on their bucket list of adventuresome water experiences.
• Lack of onshore restroom facilities – may need to wear adult diapers (Depends) if you’re unable to make it back to your ship in time to “go”.  Relieving yourself on the ice will get you confined to your ship for the rest of your Antarctic adventure!
• Long cruises ranging from 12 to 30 days (longest depart from Australia and New Zealand).
• Very fragile eco system.
• Cut off from communication with the rest of the world – a “pro” for some.
• Bright all day long during the summer; dark all day long during the winter.
• Unpredictable and sometimes miserable weather – can experience all four seasons in a single day!

Most expedition cruise ships specializing on the Antarctic depart from the tip of South America (Ushuaia). While some cruise lines make Santiago (Chile) and Buenos Aires (Argentina) their official departure points, in most cases these cities are only pre-cruise meeting destinations for flights elsewhere; clients initially gather at hotels, enjoy the cities, and then fly together for three hours to key embarkation ports where they board and familiarize themselves with their ship. A few large ships (2,000 to 3,800 passengers) actually depart from Santiago and Buenos Aires and make brief sightseeing passes near Antarctic, but the bulk of their cruise focuses on Patagonia — Chile’s Andes Mountains, fjords, lakes, and glaciers and Argentina’s deserts, tablelands, and steppes.

The major departure port (90%) for Antarctic expedition cruises is Ushuaia (Argentina). Other departure ports include Punta Arenas (Chile), which is also used for air-cruise trips of Antarctica21 (fly from Punta Arenas to South Shetland Islands where its three ships dock at King George Island ) and Stanley (Falkland Islands). Some cruise lines (Silversea and Aurora Expeditions) now use Punta Williams (Chile) as a departure port. A limited number of expedition cruises (Ponant, Oceanwide Expeditions, Heritage Expeditions, National Geographic Endurance) also originate in New Zealand and Australia. The embarkation ports include Invercargill / Port of Bluff , Dunedin , and Lyttelton-Christchurch in New Zealand and Hobart in Australia. Compared to the more popular South America-based Antarctic cruises, the Australia- and New Zealand-based cruises are much longer, more expensive, and less awe-inspiring. They go to the historic Ross Ice Shelf (where famous British polar explorer Robert Falcon Scott and his party tragically died in 1912). This is also the area of early Antarctic explorations. Here you can visit the huts of Scott, Shackleton, and Mawson. This is also one of the most remote areas of Antarctica with tall icebergs, extreme weather conditions, and turbulent seas. Some companies, such as Hapag-Lloyd, combine both areas in a single expedition cruise – embark in Ushuaia, Argentina and disembark in Lyttelton-Christchurch, New Zealand.

One cruise line – Viking Cruises – offers an ultimate 44-day Arctic to Antarctica cruise that includes stops in 9 countries.

The size of your cruise ship is very important to enjoying an Antarctic cruise adventure. Large ships (more than 500 passengers) are prohibited from landing in the Antarctic. If you’re on such a ship, you’ll only pass by land masses for wildlife watching and photo opportunities – no onshore experiences. For ships under 500 passengers, only 100 passengers are allowed to go onshore at a time. Therefore, passengers with smaller ships (under 100 passengers) are able to spend more time onshore as well as travel together in zodiacs from ship to shore. Ships between 101 and 500 passengers will need to limit the onshore time of multiple groups that go onshore. More of their time will be spent on the logistics of moving passengers back and forth to the ship. Time spend on shore may be only one hour unless you opt for overnight camping or join the annual footrace sponsored by RacingthePlanet (participants spend 12 hours onshore).

Depending on the ship you choose, Antarctica cruises offer a wide variety of onboard, on water, and onshore things to see and do. If, for example, you join a research vessel as a paying passenger, you may have an opportunity to participate in an ongoing research project related to wildlife and ecology. These can be Spartan ships On large luxury cruise ships that are prohibited from taking passengers ashore, most of your activities will be onboard — range from participating in enrichment (lecture/presentation) programs, shopping, gambling, and dancing to specialty dining, exercising, spa treatments, and entertainment. Since these are primarily scenic cruises, passengers have many opportunities to take photos of the Antarctic world around them, which means viewing amazing wildlife and beautiful ice formations and landscapes.

Expedition ships under 500 passengers organize many on-the-water and onshore activities. Ships under 100 passengers are able to simultaneously involve most passengers in these activities:

  ON-THE-WATER ACTIVITIES/EXPERIENCES:

• Zodiac safaris to explore waters and observe/photograph amphibious wildlife (whales, seals, and penguins)
• Zodiac safaris to view icebergs, glacial coastlines, mountains, and beaches.
• Ship-to-shore zodiac trips
• Photo shoots
• Swimming (polar plunges with photos)
• Scuba diving
• Submarining (special luxury yachts only)
• Bird watching

ONSHORE ACTIVITIES/EXPERIENCES:

• Snow shoeing
• Mountaineering
• Camping on snow/ice
• Flyovers/landings by helicopter
• Visiting research stations
• Stop at noted bases (church on King George Island, post office at Dorian Bay, historic explorer huts on Rose Ice Shelf)
• Special events and traditions (RacingthePlanet’s ultramarathon footrace in November/December and other celebrations and traditions )

Most pre- and post-trip extensions offered by cruise companies focus on spending two to four extra days in the four major gateway cities for Antarctic cruises – Buenos Aires, Santiago, Ushuaia, and Punta Arenas. If you’ve never been to Buenos Aires or Santiago, you’re well advised to take some extra time to visit these two delightful cities and perhaps use them as bases for visiting other interesting areas of South America, such as Peru and Brazil.

If you want to experience more outdoor adventures, plan to explore Patagonia, which spans both Chile and Argentina, although the Chilean side with the Andean Mountains and fjords is the most dramatic area to visit. Also consider trips to the Amazon region, Brazil’s Rio de Janeiro and coastal areas, Peru’s Cusco and Machu Picchu, Chile’s and Argentina’s wine country, Chile’s Atacama Desert, Argentina’s Iguazu Falls, Chile’s Easter Island, Ecuador’s Galapagos Islands, Chile’s Torres del Paine National Park, and cruise Chile’s and Argentina’s Tierra del Fuego. Your travel agent should be able to recommend several trip extension options.

If you take an Antarctic cruise from New Zealand or Australia, you’ll have many pre- and post-trip extension options in these two countries. In New Zealand, you’ll already be on the South Island which offers many interesting travel opportunities to wine country and interesting arts and crafts centers. In Australia, exploring Sydney and Melbourne should be “must visit” trip extensions. An extra four or five days in each of these countries will be well worth the trip.

Each year over 50 research, expedition, and luxury cruise ships offer a variety of Antarctic cruise and land experiences. Be sure to check out the detailed itineraries of each cruise line. While many small expedition cruise lines offer passengers hands-on water experiences (submarining, kayaking, scuba diving, and swimming), go ashore (zodiacs and trekking), and even camp on the ice, other companies (mainly large cruise lines) only do scenic cruises (the “drive-by” specialists) to sightsee and take photos rather than engaged in active water and onshore adventures. And some mainstream luxury cruise lines (Silversea, Crystal, Hapag-Lloyd, and Viking) now have small expedition-class ships to compete in this cruise space. One operator – Zegrahm Expeditions – decided after 30+ years in this business to fold up operations in 2022 because of the crowded field of competitors.

Here are some of the major Antarctic operators with sample itineraries (most are similar with Ushuaia being the key port):

• Adventure Canada (Ocean Endeavor) : “Ushuaia to Ushuaia.” 14 days. Includes Ushuaia, Drake Passage, South Shetland Islands, Antarctic Peninsula, Antarctic Circle, Drake Passage, and Ushuaia.
• Antarctica21 (fly-cruise – BAE-146 + Ocean Nova) : “Punta Arenas to Punta Arenas.” 8 days. Includes flight from Punta Arenas to King George Island, South Shetland Islands, Antarctic Peninsula, and return flight to Punta Arenas.
• Atlas Ocean Voyages (World Navigator and World Traveller):   “Ushuaia to Ushuaia.” 11 nights. Includes Ushuaia, Drake Passage, South Shetland Islands, Antarctic Peninsula, Antarctic Circle, and Ushuaia.
• Aurora Expeditions (Greg Mortimer) : “Punta Arenas to Puerto Williams: Falklands, South Georgia, and Antarctic Peninsula.” 22 days. Includes Punta Arenas, Chilean Fjords, Drake Passage, South Shetland Islands, Antarctic Peninsula, South Georgia, Falklands-Malvinas, and Puerto Williams.
• Azamara  (Azamara Pursuit) : “Buenos Aires to Buenos Aires.” 17 nights. Includes Buenos Aires, Montevideo, Ushuaia, Antarctic Peninsula, Elephant Island, Port Stanley, Puerto Madryn, and Buenos Aires. A “drive by” scenic cruise.
• Celebrity  (Celebrity Infinity) : “Buenos Aires to Buenos Aires.” 14 nights. Includes Buenos Aires, Ushuaia, Cape Horn, Paradise Bay (Antarctica), Elephant Island, Port Stanley, Puerto Madryn, and Buenos Aires. A “drive by” scenic cruise.
• G Adventures (G Expedition) : “Ushuaia to Ushuaia.” 10 nights. Includes Ushuaia, Drake Passage, South Shetland Islands, Antarctica Peninsula, Drake Passage, and Ushuaia.
• Hapag-Lloyd (Hanseatic Inspiration) : “Ushuaia to Lyttelton (Christchurch, New Zealand).” 33 days. Includes Ushuaia, Drake Passage, South Shetland Islands, Antarctic Peninsula, Ross Island, Terra Nova Bay, Victoria Land, Balleny Islands, Macquarie Island, Campbell Island, Snares Islands, and Lyttelton-Christchurch.
• Heritage Expeditions (Spirit of Enderby) : “In the Wake of Scott and Shackleton: Rose Sea Antarctica.” 30 days. This is a Russian research vessel (not luxury) that accommodates paying tourists. Includes Invercargill, Port of Bluff, The Snares (North East Island), Auckland Islands, Macquarie Island, Campbell Island, and Invercargill or Christchurch.
• Holland America (Westerdam) : “Santiago to Buenos Aires.” 22 nights. Includes Santiago, Puerto Montt, Puerto Chacbuco, Chilean Fjords, Amalia Glacier, Strait of Magellan, Punta Arenas, Ushuaia, Cape Horn, Antarctic, Port Stanley, Puerto Madryn, Punta del Este, Montevideo, and Buenos Aires. A “drive by” scenic cruise.
• Hurtigruten  (MS Fridtiof Nansen) : “Santiago to Buenos Aires.” 17 nights. Includes Santiago, Castro, Puerto Eden, Puerto Natales, Chilean Fjords, Antarctic Peninsula, Ushuaia, and Buenos Aires (fly).
• Lindblad Expeditions (Endurance) : “Buenos Aires to Buenos Aires.” 24 nights. Includes flying from Buenos Aires to Ushuaia, Drake Passage, Antarctic, South Shetland Islands, South Georgia, Falkland Islands, Ushuaia, and flight back to Buenos Aires.
• National Geographic Expeditions (Endurance) : “Epic Antarctica Voyage: Peninsula to the Ross Sea.” 35 days. Includes Ushuaia, Drake Passage, Antarctic Peninsula, Western Antarctica, Ross Sea, Macquarie Island, Australia, New Zealand’s Subantarctic Islands, Dunedin, and Auckland.
• Oceania  (Marina) : “Buenos Aires to Buenos Aires.” 20 nights. Includes Buenos Aires, Montevideo, Punta del Este, Puerto Madryn, Port Stanley, Antarctica, Drake Passage, Ushuaia, Punta Arenas, Chilean Fjords, Laguna San Rafael, Puerto Chacabuco, Puerto Montt, and Santiago. A scenic “drive by” cruise.
• Oceanwide Expeditions (M/V Hondius) : “Puerto Madryn to Ushuaia.” 20 nights. Includes Puerto Madryn, Falkland Islands, South Georgia Island, South Orkney Islands, Antarctic Peninsula, and Ushuaia.
• Polar Latitudes (MS Seaventures) : “Ushuaia to Ushuaia.” 13 days. Includes Ushuaia, Drake Passage, Antarctic Peninsula, Drake Passage, and Ushuaia.
• Ponant (Le Soleal) : “Dunedin to Dunedin (New Zealand).” 21 nights. Includes Dunedin, Campbell Island, Ross Sea Region, Balleny Islands, Macquarie Island, Snares Islands, and Dunedin.
• Poseidon Expeditions (M/V Sea Spirit) : “Ushuaia to Ushuaia.” 11 days. Includes Ushuaia, Drake Passage, South Shetland Islands, Antarctic Peninsula, Drake Passage, and Ushuaia.
• Princess (Sapphire Princess) : “Santiago to Buenos Aires.” 16 nights. Includes Santiago, Punta Arenas, Ushuaia, Cape Horn, Antarctic Peninsula, Port Stanley, Montevideo, and Buenos Aires. A “drive by” scenic cruise.
• Quark Expeditions (Ultramarine) : “Buenos Aires to Santiago.” 14 nights. Includes Buenos Aires, Ushuaia (fly), Cape Horn, Diego Ramirez Islands, Glacier Alley, Dainelli Glacier, Chilean Fjords, Puerto Natales, Canal de las Montanas, Tuckers Islets, Ainsworth Bay, Bahia Brookes, Marta Island, Punta Arenas, and Santiago (fly).
• Seabourn (Seabourn Quest) : “Santiago to Buenos Aires.” 21 nights. Includes Santiago, Puerto Montt, Castro, Chilean Fjords, Strait of Magellan, Punta Arenas, Beagle Channel, Ushuaia, Antarctic Peninsula, Port Stanley, Montevideo, and Buenos Aires.
• Scenic  (Scenic Eclipse) : “Buenos Aires to Buenos Aires.” 11 nights. Includes Buenos Aires, Ushuaia (fly), Drake Passage, Antarctic Peninsula, Ushuaia, and Buenos Aires (fly).
• Silversea (Silver Wind) : “Ushuaia to Ushuaia.” 14 nights. Includes Ushuaia, New Island, West Point, Port Stanley, Elephant Island, Antarctic Sound, Antarctic Peninsula, South Shetland Islands, Drake Passage, and Ushuaia.
• Swan Hellenic (SH Minerva) : “Ushuaia to Ushuaia.” 10 days. Includes Ushuaia, Antarctic Sound, Antarctic Peninsula, South Shetland Islands, and Ushuaia.
• Vantage (Ocean Explorer) : “Ushuaia to Buenos Aires.” 12 nights. Includes Ushuaia, Drake Passage, Antarctic Peninsula, South Shetland Islands, Ushuaia, and Buenos Aires.
• Viking (Viking Polaris) : “Buenos Aires to Ushuaia.” 13 nights. Includes Buenos Aires, fly to Ushuaia, Drake Passage, Antarctic Peninsula, Drake Passage, Cape Horn, and Ushuaia.

Dozens of travel companies offer a variety of Antarctic travel adventures, from cruises to air-cruise combinations. Since these are travel rather than cruise line companies, most of these travel operators charter cruise ships owned by major Antarctic expedition and luxury cruise lines such as Quark Expeditions and Ponant. Here is a sampling of a few major travel companies offering Antarctic adventures:

• Abercrombie & Kent (Charters Ponant’s 199-passenger Le Lyrial) : “Buenos Aires to Ushuaia.” 13 days. Includes Buenos Aires, Ushuaia, Drake Passage, Antarctica, Drake Passage, and Ushuaia.
• Adventure Life : Books cruises with many different Antarctic expedition and luxury cruise lines. A useful one-shop website for getting an overview of Antarctic cruise options, including reviews of individual expedition ships.
• Chimu Adventures (Fly-cruise, Ocean Adventurer — chartered from Quark Expeditions) : “Punta Arenas to Punta Arenas.” 8 days. Includes flight from Punta Arenas to South Shetlands Islands, Antarctic Peninsula, and return flight to Punta Arenas.
• Intrepid Travel (Ocean Endeavor) : “Ushuaia to Ushuaia.” 11 days. Includes Ushuaia, Drake Passage, Antarctic Peninsula, Drake Passage, and Ushuaia.
• Overseas Adventure Travel (M/C Corinthian) : “Buenos Aires to Buenos Aires.” 14 days. Includes Buenos Aires, fly to Ushuaia, Tierra del Fuego National Park, Beagle Channel, Drake Passage, South Shetland Islands, Drake Passage, Ushuaia, and fly back to Buenos Aires.
• Polar Cruises : Offers numerous Antarctic cruises – from basic to luxury – conducted by a variety of expedition cruise companies. A good portal for surveying cruise options.
• Polartours : This is a booking portal that works with several expedition cruise and tour companies specializing in the Antarctic.
• Road Scholar (Fly-cruise — charters M/V Ocean Nova) : “Punta Arenas to Punta Arenas.” 11 nights. Includes Punta Arenas, fly to King George Island in South Shetland Islands to board M/V Ocean Nova, multiple visits to western coast of the Antarctic Peninsula, and flight back to Punta Arenas.
• Swoop Antarctica : A specialty travel and booking agency that offers a wide range of cruises and flights to Antarctica.
• Tauck (charters 3 Ponant ships — Le Boréal, L’Austral, or Le Lyrial) : “Buenos Aires to Buenos Aires.” 13 days. Includes Buenos Aires, fly to Ushuaia and board ship, Drake Passage, 5 stops along Antarctic Peninsula, Drake Passage, Ushuaia, and return flight to Buenos Aires.
• Travel Wild Expeditions : Works with several expedition cruise lines in offering a variety of cruises and air-cruise combinations in the Antarctica.

The following resources will give you a good orientation into various aspects of the Antarctic, from the tragic and triumphant history of exploration to today’s best cruise experiences.

• Alone on the Ice: The Greatest Survival Story in the History of Exploration (David Roberts, 2014)
• Amundsen’s Way: Race to the South Pole (Joanna Grochowicz, 2019)
• Antarctic Cruising Guide (Peter Carey and Craig Franklin, 2018)
• Antarctica: A Guide to the Wildlife (Tony Soper, 2018)
• Antarctica: An Intimate Portrait of the World’s Most Mysterious Continent (Gabiella Walker, 2012)
• Antarctica: The Waking Giant (Sabastian Copeland, 2020)
• Antarctica Cruise Guide (online)
• The Birthday Boys: A Novel (Beryl Bainbridge, 2016)
• Chimu Antarctica Travel Guide (online)
• End of the Earth: Voyaging to Antarctica (Peter Mattiessen and Birgit Freybe Bateman, 2004)
• Endurance: Shackleton’s Incredible Voyage (Alfred Lansing, 1959)
• Horizon Guide to Antarctica (online)
• Into the White: Scott’s Antarctic Odyssey (Joanna Grochowicz, 2017)
• The Last Place on Earth: Scott and Amundsen’s Race to the South Pole (Roland Huntford and Paul Theroux, 1999)
• Lonely Planet Antarctica (2017)
• The Lost Men: The Harrowing Saga of Shackleton’s Ross Sea Party (Kelly Tyler-Lewis, 2007)
• Madhouse at the End of the Earth: The Belgica’s Journey into the Dark Antarctic Night (Julian Sancton, 2021)
• Mawson’s Will: The Greatest Polar Survival Story Ever Written (Leonard Bickel and Edmund Sir Hillary, 2000)
• Responsible Travel Guide to Antarctica (online)
• Terra Incognita: Travels in Antarctica (Sara Wheeler, 1999)
• With Byrd at the Bottom of the World: The South Pole Expedition of 1928-1930 (Norman D. Vaughan and Cecil B. Murphey, 2016)
• The Worst Journey in the World (Apsley Cherry-Garrard, 1922)

Antarctic-Themed Movies

• Antarctica: Ice and Sky (2015)
• Antarctica: A Year on Ice (2017)
• Cold Skin (2017)
• Cry of the Penguins (1971)
• Desert Runners (2013)
• Dirigible (1931)
• Eight Below (2006)
• Encounters at the End of the World (2007)
• The Endurance: Shackleton’s Legendary Antarctic Expedition (2000)
• The Great White Silence (1924)
• Hell Below Zero (1954)
• March of the Penguins (2007)
• March of the Penguins 2 (2017)
• Penguins (2019)
• Penguins: Life on the Edge (2020)
• Red Knot (2014)
• Scott of the Antarctic (1948)
• Shackleton’s Captain (2012)
• South (1919)
• The Thing (1982)
• Where’d You Go, Bernadette (2019)
• Whiteout (2009)
• With Byrd at the South Pole (1930)

Videos of Antarctica and Cruise/Travel  Experiences

You’ll find numerous videos about Antarctica online. Most cruise lines post videos of their expeditions on their websites as well as on YouTube. Lindblad includes numerous short videos on a variety of cruise subjects. Hurtigruten offers some of the most informative videos. A few travel experts, such as Gary Bembridge, also post informative videos about Antarctic cruises and cruise ships. For starters, sample some of the following videos to acquaint yourself with what’s going on in the Antarctic cruise and travel worlds:

• Antarctic Travel Videos
• Welcome to the Antarctica
• Is Hurtigruten the Right Antarctica Cruise for YOU?
• Silversea: Antarctica
• Silversea Silver Cloud Expedition Ship: What You Need to Know Before Cruising
• How to Choose Your Antarctica Cruise Ship
• MA Roald Amundsen Antarctica
• Quark Expedition Videos of Antarctica
• Lindblad Expeditions: Antarctica
• Aboard National Geographic Explorer: Antarctica
• Luxury 10- Day Antarctica Cruise on Board Le Lyrial by Ponant
• Seabourn’s Antarctica and Patagonia Experience
• Antarctica21 Air-Cruise to Antarctica
• Scenic Eclipse Antarctic Discovery Yacht with Submarine and Helicopter
• Viking Cruise Antarctic Expeditions
• Abercrombie & Kent Cruise to Antarctic
• Poseidon Expeditions Videos of Antarctic Cruises
• Expedition Antarctica with Hapag-Lloyd Cruises
• Crystal Yacht Expedition Cruise on Crystal Endeavor
• Tauck Cruising in Antarctic
• Hapag-Lloyd in Antarctica
• Swoop Antarctica Cruises
• Overseas Travel Adventure Video Library on Antarctica
• White-Desert Pioneering Luxury Travel in Antarctica
• Land of Pure Silence
• Amazing Antarctica: World’s Nature Laboratory
• 360° Antarctica: Journey Through the Ice
• Antarctica: Exploring Oceans
• The Secrets of Antarctica
• Best Antarctic Animal Moments
• Expedition Antarctica
• Antarctica: A Message From Another Planet
• National Geographic’s Antarctic Peninsula
• The Antarctic Peninsula
• Cruises to the Antarctic Peninsula
• 6 Greatest Cruises in the World
• 5 Worst Things About an Antarctica Trip: Should They Stop You Going?
• RacingthePlanet’s Annual 250-Kilometer Footrace in the Antarctic

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Some Antarctica cruises and tours from Ushuaia include camping in Antarctica, kayaking, whale watching, and wildlife viewing. If you are cruising to Antarctica from Ushuaia or Punta Arenas, you'll be cruising the Drake Passage or Mar de Hoces (Sea of Hoces), named after Francisco de Hoces who was a Spanish sailor who during the Loaisa Expedition in 1526 was said to precede Sir Francis Drake's expedition by over 50 years. The Drake Passage, which historians in both Argentina and Chile believe should be renamed Mar de Hoces is a 600 mile wide tumultuous body of water lying between Cape Horn and Antarctica. Some consider the voyage to be a rite of passage into Antarctica due predominantly to what is known as The Drake Shake, named after the rough seas caused by the unpredictable weather patterns. The Drake Passage Crossing takes approximately 48 hours and that's if you're traveling through favorable conditions.

Landing Rights are required in order to step foot onto Antarctica...  escorted Antarctica travel companies that offer Antarctica travel packages and or Antarctica cruise tours must be members of IAATO (International Association Antarctica Tour Operators), companies that are committed in supporting and preserving Antarctica. There are a total of fifty Antarctica travel companies that are currently IAATO Members that will provide several 2022 Antarctica cruises and tours.

Here at Escorted Antarctica Tours, we only provide our customers with tour operators that are members of The IAATO, which include land as well as sea operators. We have a cruise page, that focuses on major cruise lines like Celebrity, Hurtigruten, Holland America, Hapag Lloyd, Princess, SilverSea, Seabourn, Ponant, Viking, and Crystal among others. On our Antarctica tour page, we focus on land operators like A&K, G Adventures, Lindblad, Quark, and Tauck.

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Embarking on a journey to the end of the Earth is a dream for many adventurers, and several cruise operators offer unique voyages to Antarctica, each with its own flavor of exploration.

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Atlas ocean voyages, aurora expeditions, australis expeditions, g adventures, quark expeditions, hurtigruten, lindblad expeditions, national geographic expeditions, oceanwide expeditions, scenic ocean voyages, seabourn expedition cruises, secret atlas expeditions, swan hellenic, celebrity cruises.

All antarctica operators are high quality and offer an incredible experience. We have sent guests on cruises with all operators. Let us find you the best cruise for you.

Atlas Ocean Voyages offers luxury expeditions to Antarctica. Their small ships provide personalized service, gourmet dining, and enriching experiences in this pristine environment.

Embark on breathtaking cruises and expeditions to Antarctica, the Arctic, Greenland, Iceland, and beyond with Aurora Expeditions. With over 30 years of experience, they specialize in small-group voyages to the world's most beautiful and remote destinations. Their commitment to travel with a positive impact makes them a leader in responsible exploration.

Sail on board an all-inclusive expedition Patagonia cruise and explore the pristine corners of Tierra del Fuego with Australis Cruises. Since 1990, they have been touring the main attractions of Tierra del Fuego, the Strait of Magellan, the Beagle Channel, and Cape Horn.

G Adventures caters to the spirited small-group traveler. Their Antarctic expeditions are crafted to bring guests up close with the continent’s abundant wildlife and pristine environments. The emphasis on exploration and wildlife encounters ensures that each traveler has a personal and profound connection with the natural wonders of Antarctica.

Quark Expeditions is a trailblazer in polar adventures, offering a diverse array of adventure cruises to Antarctica. Their expeditions are designed for those who seek to combine adventure with environmental stewardship. With helicopter-supported activities, Quark allows guests to experience Antarctica from the air and ground, providing a comprehensive view of its breathtaking landscapes.

Hurtigruten is synonymous with sustainable travel. Their expedition cruises to the polar regions are conducted aboard advanced hybrid ships, minimizing environmental impact. Hurtigruten’s commitment to eco-friendly travel doesn’t compromise the adventure, as guests can still enjoy a full Antarctic experience with a lighter ecological footprint.

For those who prefer to explore in luxury, Silversea’s Antarctic cruises offer an elegant experience aboard intimate vessels. Silversea’s ships navigate to remote destinations, providing an upscale and exclusive view of Antarctica’s untouched beauty, all while ensuring the comfort and service synonymous with luxury travel.

In partnership with National Geographic, Lindblad Expeditions emphasizes educational and immersive experiences. Their expert guides, many of whom are scientists and researchers, provide in-depth knowledge and insights, making a trip with Lindblad both an adventure and a learning experience.

National Geographic Expeditions combines adventure with education. Their cruises to Antarctica offer expert-led programs, photography workshops, and immersive experiences in this remote region.

Oceanwide Expeditions is renowned for their deep polar expertise. They offer a variety of activities and educational programs that allow guests to engage with Antarctica in a hands-on manner. From kayaking among icebergs to participating in citizen science projects, Oceanwide turns a cruise into an active expedition.

Oceanwide Expeditions specializes in polar adventures. Their cruises to Antarctica focus on exploration, wildlife encounters, and outdoor activities, providing an authentic and immersive experience.

Ponant brings a touch of French elegance to polar expeditions. Their luxury cruises are designed for fewer than 200 passengers, creating an intimate atmosphere that allows for personalized service. Ponant’s ships are not only luxurious but also equipped to navigate the challenging waters of Antarctica, ensuring a safe and stylish adventure.

Scenic Ocean Voyages provides all-inclusive luxury cruises to Antarctica. Experience the pristine landscapes, abundant wildlife, and breathtaking icebergs while enjoying top-notch amenities onboard.

Seabourn Expedition Cruises combines luxury with adventure. Their Antarctica cruises offer personalized service, gourmet dining, and Zodiac excursions to explore the icy landscapes.

Secret Atlas Expeditions specializes in off-the-beaten-path adventures. Their cruises to Antarctica focus on unique itineraries, hidden gems, and authentic encounters with the natural world.

Swan Hellenic offers cultural and educational expeditions to Antarctica. Explore the history, wildlife, and natural wonders of the region with expert guides and comfortable accommodations.

Celebrity Cruises provides a mainstream cruise experience that doesn’t skimp on the amenities. Their approach to Antarctic exploration combines the comforts of a traditional cruise with the excitement of an expedition, making it an excellent choice for those who want to explore in comfort.

Each of these operators offers a distinct way to experience Antarctica, from adventure-packed expeditions to luxurious voyages. Whether you’re looking to engage in sustainable travel, enjoy intimate wildlife encounters, or explore in comfort, there’s an Antarctic cruise that fits your style.

Let us find you the best operator to take you to Earth's last great wilderness. Antarctica promises an unforgettable journey no matter how you choose to explore it!

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The Ultimate Antarctica Family Cruise Guide - From A Mom Who's Done It! (2024)

O ur Antarctica family cruise during Christmas 2023 was a hallmark adventure for us. We spent 2.5 years driving the Pan American Highway and visited the Antarctic while we were down there.

From witnessing the ethereal glow of polar sunrises to encountering the continent’s charismatic wildlife in their natural habitat, each day unfolded like a page from an explorer’s diary.

Our 16-day journey with Princess Cruises provided a unique view of the frozen beauty of Antarctica. From polar sunrises to encountering charismatic wildlife in their natural habitat it was the best Antarctica cruise for families we could have imagined!

We know that planning a trip to Antarctica is on many family’s bucket lists, but they don’t know how to do it. Especially if you want to visit Antarctica on a budget. This article will help you do just that! Let’s go!

Planning the Best Antarctica Cruise for Families

Choosing the right Antarctica family cruise is essential for a memorable family adventure. I spent more time than I’d care to admit trying to figure this out for our family!

Cruises with family-friendly amenities, diverse dining, and stability for rough waters like the Drake Passage. Unique experiences, wildlife sightings, and affordable options for families on larger ships.

Our Antarctica Family Cruise Overview

Our 16-day Antarctica Christmas cruise was unforgettable. We set sail from Santiago, Chile, and then explored Punta Arenas. Unfortunately, we missed Ushuaia due to high winds, but sailed into the Drake Passage early.

We even saw Iceberg A23a with that bonus time! Antarctica’s scenery and wildlife were simply stunning. Next, we visited the Falkland Islands and saw thousands of penguins!

After a quick stop in Montevideo, Uruguay, our cruise concluded in Buenos Aires, where we enjoyed the vibrant culture and warm summer weather.

Experiencing Antarctica on a Large Cruise Ship

The Sapphire Princess isn’t the most family-friendly cruise ship we’ve ever been on, as there aren’t any water slides or trampoline parks, but Little Man loved every second.

He loved that he could check himself in and out of kids club (any kid age 8 and up can do this on Princess with parental approval) and we loved the medallion technology so we could see where he was on the ship at any time.

Sapphire Princess offers many activities for kids, with a lively kids club for crafts, games, and learning. Even teens have a dedicated space to hang out, meet new friends, and enjoy age-appropriate entertainment.

Families enjoy mealtime onboard the Sapphire Princess with diverse dining options for all tastes, from casual poolside snacks to formal global cuisines. Special kids’ menus make dining stress-free for parents.

Pro Tip: On Princess cruises, you can enjoy complimentary hot cocoa while in Antarctica. It’s a cozy treat after braving the chilly outdoors. Just ask a buffet server.

Other Large Ships with Antarctica Itineraries

Don’t want to cruise on Princess? Or just want to know your other options? No problem! Here are a few other cruise lines that offer itineraries visiting the White Continent.

• Holland America Line : Offers kids’ clubs, family-friendly dining, and educational programs.
• Celebrity Cruises : Features the Camp at Sea program with over 500 activities for kids, family-friendly dining, and spacious family staterooms.
• Norwegian Cruise Line : Known for its Freestyle Cruising concept, offering flexible dining options, kids’ clubs, and family entertainment.
• Royal Caribbean : Boasts extensive amenities including water parks, kids’ clubs, family-friendly dining, and spacious family suites.
• Seabourn : Provides a more intimate experience with personalized service, though fewer specific family amenities compared to larger lines.

Large Cruise Ships vs Small Expedition Ships in Antarctica

Choosing between large cruise ships and small expedition ships for an Antarctica family cruise involves weighing their pros and cons.

By considering costs and benefits, families can choose the best Antarctica cruise for families that want a memorable adventure.

Large cruise ships offer extensive amenities, stability, and affordability, making them ideal for families. However, they provide fewer (or no) opportunities to step foot on the Antarctic continent and have less personalized experiences.

Small expedition ships offer intimate, personalized experiences with closer wildlife encounters and landings on the continent.

They have fewer amenities and are less stable in the Drake Passage, with higher costs ranging from $5,000 to $15,000 USD per person.

Large Ship Pros

• Extensive amenities and entertainment for families.
• More stable and comfortable for those prone to seasickness.
• Wide range of dining and accommodation options.
• Lower cost per person make it more budget friendly.
• Better medical resources available in case of emergencies.

Large Ship Cons

• Limited/no opportunities to step foot on the Antarctic continent.
• Larger groups can lead to less personalized experiences.

Small Ship Pros

• More intimate and personalized experiences.
• Opportunities to land on the Antarctic continent and explore.

Small Ship Cons

• No kids club or childcare.
• Smaller, potentially less stable vessels.
• Fewer amenities and entertainment options.
• Limited dining and accommodation choices.
• More expensive per person cost.
• Fewer medical resources available for emergencies.

For our family, a large cruise ship was perfect. We enjoyed wildlife sightings and breathtaking scenery with added comfort and family-friendly amenities.

One day, we spent several hours relaxing in a hot tub just watching the icebergs (with penguins) float by!

Does a large cruise ship count as visiting Antarctica if you never get to walk on the continent?

Yes, a large cruise ship does count as visiting Antarctica if you never get to walk on the continent because most of the wildlife observed is in the water anyway.

The Antarctic encompasses not just the landmass of Antarctica but also islands and the waters surrounding it (aka: the Antarctic Convergence ), offering a comprehensive view of its unique ecosystem.

Wildlife Encounters on Your Antarctica Family Cruise

During our Antarctica family cruise, we spotted a wide variety of wildlife daily – playful penguins, majestic whales, and different penguin species like Emperor, Adélie, Chinstrap, and Gentoo.

Also, we got to see Megallanic and King Penguins during our stop in the Falkland Islands in addition to sea lions and Commerson dolphins, which were really cute!

And the whale! We saw Blue Whales, the largest animals in the world, and Humpback Whales as well as Orcas (aka: Killer Whales) and Southern Right Whales, too.

We even saw what the on board biologist called Fake Orcas, which are actually dolphins that look like Orcas. I didn’t even know they existed!

Wildlife Viewing: Large Cruise Ships vs. Small Expedition Ships

Large Cruise Ships:

Large cruise ships have their advantages, making bonus stops in places like Punta Arenas and the Falkland Islands, where wildlife abounds on shore. These stops offer additional opportunities to see various species up close.

Despite not navigating as closely to the ice as smaller vessels, large ships still provide an excellent experience.wildlife viewing from the deck, with the added comfort and amenities of a larger ship.

Small expedition ships offer advantages like navigating closer to ice and land for potentially intimate wildlife encounters. Seeing wildlife is never guaranteed.

But with fewer passengers, they do provide personalized experiences. Expedition ships also offer frequent shore excursions, increasing the chances of up-close wildlife sightings.

Tips for Maximizing Wildlife Sightings

• Bring Binoculars : Essential for spotting distant wildlife from the ship. If you don’t bring any, you may want to buy them on board. We bought a great pair at the photography studio!
• Join Shore Excursions : Take advantage of every opportunity to go ashore, as some species are best observed on land. We saw penguins all over South America, not just in Antarctica. But our port stop in the Falklands was pretty epic!
• Stay on Deck : Spend as much time as possible on deck, especially during peak wildlife viewing times like early morning and late afternoon. Wear many layers so you don’t get too cold, and take frequent hot tea or cocoa breaks!

Listen to Guides : Pay attention to the naturalists and guides on board; they have expert knowledge on where and when to spot wildlife.

We had some amazing naturalists and historians on board and spent a lot of time chatting with the on board naturalist, who specializes in Antarctic biology.

• Be Patient : Wildlife sightings can be unpredictable, so patience is key. Enjoy the journey and the stunning landscapes while you wait. Bonus points for the rear deck hot tubs! A great place to relax and watch the scenery float by.

Essential Tips for Families Planning an Antarctica Cruise

Choosing the right Antarctica family cruise requires a harmonious balance between your family’s needs and the offerings of the adventure.

First, consider the age restrictions and child-friendly activities provided by the cruise line, ensuring they cater to young explorers with educational programs and engaging experiences.

Many expedition ships aren’t ideal for families with kids under 10 or 12 years old.

Selecting a ship with amenities suitable for families, such as larger cabins or interconnected rooms, and a medical facility on board is also crucial for comfort and safety.

Getting ready for an Antarctic trip has its own challenges but comes with great rewards. Getting your family used to the cold weather beforehand can help with the adjustment.

Talking about what to expect can make everyone excited and less worried. Teach kids to care for the environment and respect wildlife to instill a sense of responsibility in them.

Packing for Antarctica with Kids

Packing essentials for an Antarctica cruise should focus on combating the cold while enhancing the experience. Invest in high-quality thermal layers, waterproof outerwear, and insulated boots for each family member.

Don’t forget accessories like gloves, hats, and UV-protective polarized sunglasses. Trust me, polarized lenses are essential for better seeing wildlife in the water!

Bringing Dramamine or other motion sickness remedies is wise due to potentially rough seas. You’ll almost certainly need it while crossing the Drake Passage. I did, and I’m not normally affected!

A good camera is essential for capturing breathtaking landscapes and wildlife encounters, while binoculars will bring distant sights closer without disturbing nature’s tranquility.

Preparing thoughtfully ensures that your family’s Antarctic journey will be comfortable, enriching, and full of wonder. Don’t skimp on warm clothes.

Things to Know Before Cruising in Antarctica

When planning an Antarctica family cruise, be aware of specific regulations and guidelines to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience. Here are some crucial things to know before embarking on your Antarctic adventure:

1. Drones Are Prohibited

Due to the International Antarctic Treaty, drones are not allowed in Antarctica. This regulation is in place to protect the delicate ecosystem and prevent any disturbances to wildlife.

Cruise lines strictly enforce this rule, and violating it can result in severe penalties, including being banned from future cruises.

2. Pools and Outdoor Activities Are Closed

While cruising in Antarctic waters , all pools, outdoor ping pong tables, mini golf courses, and other outdoor recreational activities are closed. Except hot tubs. For some reason, those are allowed to stay open.

This is to prevent any objects from falling into the pristine waters, which could harm the environment. Families should plan for indoor activities and entertainment during this part of the journey when you aren’t on deck watching for wildlife.

3. Strict Environmental Guidelines

Cruise lines operating in Antarctica adhere to stringent environmental guidelines to minimize their impact on the region.

This includes proper waste disposal, avoiding introducing non-native species, and ensuring no pollutants enter the water. Passengers are often briefed on these guidelines and are expected to follow them diligently.

4. Limited Shore Excursions

Due to the fragile nature of the Antarctic environment, shore excursions are limited and highly regulated. Only a certain number of passengers are allowed to disembark at a time, and they must be accompanied by experienced guides.

Large ships over 500 people aren’t allowed any land excursions on the Antarctic continent. This ensures that human impact on the land and wildlife is minimized. Families should be prepared for these restrictions and plan accordingly.

5. Weather Conditions Can Be Unpredictable

Antarctica is known for its extreme and unpredictable weather conditions. High winds, snowstorms, and rough seas can affect the cruise itinerary and planned activities.

It’s essential to pack appropriate clothing and gear for all weather conditions and to be flexible with your plans.

6. Wildlife Viewing Etiquette

Respecting wildlife is paramount in Antarctica. Passengers must maintain a safe distance from animals, avoid making loud noises, and never feed or touch the wildlife.

Cruise lines provide guidelines on how to interact with the environment responsibly, ensuring that families can enjoy wildlife sightings without causing harm.

7. Health and Safety Precautions

Given the remote location, medical facilities on board are limited. It’s crucial to have comprehensive travel insurance that covers medical emergencies.

Plus, passengers should bring any necessary medications and be prepared for the possibility of seasickness due to the rough waters.

8. Educational Opportunities

Many cruise lines offer educational programs and lectures about Antarctica’s history, wildlife, and environmental significance. Every sea day and every day in Antarctica, we had at least one speaker scheduled from ice pilots and naturalists to historians.

We even got to watch the video footage Earnest Shackelton took on his famous expedition!

These programs are excellent for families, providing valuable knowledge and enhancing the overall experience. Encourage your children to participate in these activities to make the most of the journey.

What is the Best Month to Cruise in Antarctica?

Choosing the right time to cruise in Antarctica can significantly enhance your experience. I know we had the most amazing time because of when we took our Antarctica family cruise.

Here’s what you need to know about the cruise season and the best times to go:

Antarctica Cruise Season

The Antarctica cruise season runs from late October to early March, during the Southern Hemisphere’s summer.

This period provides optimal weather and longer daylight hours, perfect for exploring the White Continent. David stayed up until sunrise at 2am one night during our family’s Antarctic cruise. It never even got fully dark!

Best Time to Go

Early Season (Late October to November): This is when the ice begins to break up, and the landscape is pristine and untouched.

It’s an excellent time for photography, with dramatic ice formations and fewer tourists. Wildlife is also starting to become more active.

Mid-Season (December to January): This is the peak season for Antarctic cruises. The weather is relatively mild, with temperatures ranging from -2°C to 8°C (28°F to 46°F).

This period is also the best time to see wildlife babies, such as penguin chicks and seal pups. The long daylight hours provide ample time for excursions and wildlife viewing.

Late Season (February to Early March): As the season progresses, the ice continues to melt, allowing ships to venture further south.

This is the best time for whale watching, as many species are more active and visible. The weather remains relatively mild, and the days are still long.

Christmas Cruises: A Magical Experience

Cruising to Antarctica over Christmas is an unforgettable experience. Our family cruise with Princess Cruises during Christmas 2023 was the most festive and memorable Christmas we’ve had in years. Here’s why:

• Festive Activities: The ship was decked out in holiday decorations, creating a magical atmosphere . There were daily festive activities, including Christmas carolers, themed drinks and foods, and special meals for Christmas Eve and Christmas Day.
• Family-Friendly Events: The cruise offered a variety of family-friendly activities, such as an ugly sweater contest, Christmas cookie decorating, and gingerbread house decorating. These activities brought families together and added to the holiday cheer.
• Santa’s Visit: On Christmas Day, Santa visited the ship and brought presents for every child on board. The gifts were the same for all kids, ensuring no one felt left out or argued over who had the better gift. With over 150 kids on board, the cruise was incredibly accessible and enjoyable for families.
• Unforgettable Memories: Celebrating Christmas in Antarctica, surrounded by breathtaking scenery and unique wildlife, made for an extraordinary holiday experience that our family will cherish forever.

I’m already planning another one, and I never feel inclined to repeat a cruise! So that has to tell you how amazing our experience was!

Booking an Antarctica Cruise with Kids

If you’re looking to book an Antarctica family cruise on a large ship, just check the sites for the lines I mentioned above and put a hold on the Antarctica itinerary you want, just like you would any other cruise.

Booking Antarctica expedition cruises with kids is a bit trickier. Unless you have a large budget and can pay the sticker cost for the dates you want, your best bet is to try and get a last minute deal.

While showing up in Ushuaia and pounding the pavement used to work, it’s no longer necessary. Just find a tour company based in Ushuaia and sign up for their email list. They’ll send you deals throughout the year.

I signed up for an email list a year before we planned to go to Antarctica, to get a feel for the prices. The lowest rate I saw in two years was $3,995 for an interior double room on an expedition ship.

Usually, the deals are closer to $5,000 USD per person, and the cost for special times like Christmas usually runs closer to $8,000 USD per person…if there are deals at all for the holidays!

Final Thoughts on Antarctica Family Cruises

From witnessing the majestic beauty of icebergs to sharing unforgettable moments with penguins and seals in their natural habitat, every experience on our Antarctica family cruise was truly unique.

If you’re looking to see everything Antarctica has to offer, the best Antarctica cruise for families on a budget or families with small children is a large ship itinerary.

Whether you book on a large ship or an expedition vessel, an Antarctica family cruise offers more than just breathtaking landscapes; it provides valuable lessons in ecology, perseverance, and the importance of conservation efforts in these pristine environments.

FAQs for the Best Antarctica Cruise for Families

Do you still have questions about Antarctica family cruises? Here are answers to some frequently asked questions.

Can kids go on an Antarctic cruise?

Yes, kids can go on an Antarctic cruise, but it’s important to check with the cruise line as they may have age restrictions and specific guidelines for young travelers. Large ship itineraries are great for kids of all ages.

Is Antarctica good for kids?

Antarctica is great for kids. Expedition cruises may not be ideal for young children due to its extreme weather conditions and the complexity of travel.

However, older kids with a strong interest in wildlife, science, or adventure might find it a fascinating and educational experience. Or book a large ship itinerary if you want to see the wildlife and don’t mind not trekking on the continent itelf!

What is the age limit to visit Antarctica?

There isn’t a strict age limit for visiting Antarctica; however, most expedition cruise companies recommend that travelers be at least 10-12 years old. On the other hand, large ship cruises to Antarctica are suitable for children of all ages, offering a fantastic adventure for the entire family.

Can I take my family to Antarctica?

Yes, you can take your family to Antarctica! Many tour operators offer family-friendly expeditions that cater to all ages, providing a unique and educational adventure into one of the world’s most remote destinations.

The post The Ultimate Antarctica Family Cruise Guide – From A Mom Who’s Done It! (2024) appeared first on Our Offbeat Life .

• Travel Guide

Antarctica Tourism, The Role Of IAATO & Responsible Travel

History of antarctica tourism, the first sightseeing cruise, growth of ecotourism in antarctica, the international association of antarctica tour operators (iaato): managing tourism in antarctica, what modern antarctica tourism looks like, antarctic tourism statistics: how many tourists visit antarctica, responsible travel in antarctica: protecting the integrity of the white continent.

Antarctica stands icy and glistening at the bottom of the planet as a truly special travel destination—and an increasingly popular one. As farflung as the Earth’s landmasses come, it remains a place that comparatively few people have visited firsthand, but each year brings greater and greater numbers of sightseers, keen to experience the last true wilderness and its astonishing scenery and wildlife.

Compared to other corners of the globe, the timeline of Antarctic tourism is pretty darn short. People didn’t even lay eyes on the White Continent until 1820, and needless to say leisure travel wasn’t exactly on the radar in this staggeringly remote, ice-ruled polar realm for many decades afterward. Antarctica long remained a little-seen realm mainly drawing adventurers, whalers, sealers, and—mainly from the early 20th century onward—scientists.

The dawn of true Antarctic tourism came in January of 1966, with the first-ever expedition cruise to the White Continent led by Lars-Eric Lindblad, a Swede who came to the United States in the 1950s and there established a tour company, Lindblad Travel.

As Lindblad’s son Sven told Elite Traveler , Lars-Eric hatched the plan to lead a tour down to the bottom of the world in the early 1960s, around a campfire in the Gobi Desert of Mongolia. Lindblad asked his guests where they’d like him to bring them next, and a woman answered: “Why not Antarctica?”

The inaugural 1966 expedition cruise led by Lindblad— documented on film , by the way—went down on a specially chartered ship of the Argentine Navy, the Lapataia . Three years later, Lindblad began leading cruises on the first vessel purpose-built for Antarctic cruising: the ice-strengthened MV Lindblad , which continued to ferry sightseers into the 21st century. (It sank due to human error in the Bransfield Strait in 2007.)

Lindblad’s expeditions launched the era of sightseeing tours in Antarctica, and by the late 1980s four operators were leading cruises into these polar waters. In 1985, a company began running the first tourism flights to Antarctica, bringing clients to a field camp in the interior for the purposes of mountaineering, skiing, and the like.

Cruising towards the South Pole

In 1991, the parties signed on to the Antarctic Treaty adopted an important addition to that regulatory system: the Protocol on Environmental Protection to the Antarctic Treaty . Fully implemented by 1998, this protocol declared Antarctica a “natural reserve” and laid out a variety of guidelines and requirements for the continued protection of the White Continent’s largely pristine state. Those guidelines and requirements applied to the growing tourism industry as well as all other human activities in the Antarctic.

Prompted by the adoption of the Protocol, seven tour companies active in Antarctica at that time established that same year the International Association of Antarctic Tour Operators (IAATO) , which, per the IAATO website , is “a global, non-profit industry alliance dedicated to safe and responsible private-sector travel to the White Continent.”

Minimizing the impacts of tourism on Antarctica and upholding the tenets of the Antarctic Treaty’s Protocol on Environmental Protection help guide the IAATO’s efforts. These range from ensuring the most rigorous of training for guides and other staff to supporting scientific work (many scientists and staff of Antarctica’s research bases hop rides on tour vessels to reach the White Continent, for example).

Today IAATO comprises better than 100 members representing the following globe-spanning countries:

• Netherlands
• New Zealand
• South Africa
• Switzerland
• United Kingdom (and the British Overseas Territory of the Falkland Islands)
• United States

As of 2019-2020, according to IAATO records, nearly 50 tour operators are active in Antarctica, with a fleet of some 63 vessels making more than 400 voyages to the White Continent that season.

Most tourism to Antarctica takes place by ship, with IAATO-registered sightseeing vessels categorized as traditional expedition ships carrying 12 to 200 passengers and making landfall ( C1 vessels); midsize ships carrying 201-500 and making landfall ( C2 vessels); large cruise ships carrying 500-plus passengers without making landings ( CR vessels); and small sailing or motor yachts ferrying a dozen or fewer passengers ( YA vessels).

The majority of Antarctic sightseeing cruises embark from South America and head for the Antarctic Peninsula, potentially visiting the Falklands, South Georgia, and other islands en route. But some ships proceed deeper into polar waters, crossing the Antarctic Circle and foraying into the Weddell or Ross seas; a relative handful journey along the coast of East Antarctica.

Some Antarctic tourists leaving from South America skip the ship-borne crossing of the Drake Passage and fly to the South Shetland Islands, thereafter joining a cruise to the Antarctic Peninsula. And some operators lead flights into the Antarctic interior for mountain-climbing, visiting the South Pole, and other bucket-list adventures.

Camping in Neko Harbour

The White Continent has grown in popularity as travelers hunger for new, exotic locations and interest in this comparatively untouched wilderness—not least in this era of climate change and heightened concern over humanity’s impact on the biosphere—continues to mount.

The IAATO keeps record of how many tourists go to Antarctica each year. The first tourism season after the organization’s establishment, 1992-1993, saw 6,704 tourists make landings in Antarctica courtesy of 10 tour operators and 59 voyages.

During the aforementioned 2019-2020 season—when the sightseeing fleet had ballooned past 60 vessels and voyages numbered in the hundreds—almost 60,000 tourists made landfall in Antarctica, with another 18,420 cruise-only passengers enjoying the sights from offshore.

There are both positive and negative impacts of tourism in Antarctica, as anywhere. Experiencing the White Continent firsthand—its fluted icebergs, looming ice-shelves, seal colonies, penguin towns, ice-armored summits, whale-plowed leads and bays—inspires vital awareness of how precious, and how vulnerable, this incredible place is. Part of the IAATO’s mission , for example, is using responsible tourism to “create a corps of ambassadors for the continued protection of Antarctica.”

But the chance to see the dreamscape that is Antarctica comes with some heady responsibility. That’s only as it should be, given the White Continent is the last great subaerial wilderness on Earth. Everybody coming here—researchers, tour operators, guides, and tourists—must do their part to lighten their impact on the landscape and seascape and their ecosystems.

Choosing an Antarctic experience via an IAATO outfit is fundamental to responsible ecotourism. The IAATO maintains an excellent collection of online resources focused on visitor guidelines for Antarctica, well worth checking out even if you’re only in the early stages of considering such a trip.

Indeed, there’s plenty you can do before leaving to ensure you’ll be lessening your footprint in the Antarctic as much as possible. That includes selecting environmentally conscientious products such as reusable items, non-plastic packaging, and eco-friendly formulations and fabrics.

It also means taking steps to avoid bringing any unwanted living cargo along with you. After all, exotic (i.e., non-native) species are a major risk to the Antarctic ecosystem—some 200 have already been introduced to this remotest continent, most notably plants such as grasses and sedges and invertebrates such as midges and fruit flies—and it’s all too easy to transport seeds or insects in your clothing and gear. Thoroughly cleaning your belongings before your departure helps lower the chance of spreading such pests to and around the White Continent. While traveling, meanwhile, abide by the cleaning/decontamination protocol established by your operator, and generally stay aware of when you may be picking up organic matter on your clothing or equipment; clean such debris off before moving on to another site.

Penguin family in Port Lockroy

Enjoying Antarctica’s spectacular wildlife responsibly means giving animals an adequate amount of space and doing everything possible to avoid altering their behavior, even minimally. If you flush a seabird or startle a hauled-out seal into the water, you’re forcing these creatures to expend valuable energy, and also very likely boosting stress hormones.

Tour operators are, of course, expected to shoulder much of the burden of navigating respectfully around wildlife: keeping vessels a minimum distance from animals (a contextual judgment), avoiding pursuing or boxing in dolphins and whales, keeping travel lanes amid bird or seal rookeries clear, and so on. But tourists themselves must always bear in mind that their individual actions can definitely disturb animals, and aside from following all instructions from guides, they should be familiar with responsible wildlife-watching guidelines on their own.

Other essential—and hopefully common-sense—practices for lightening your impact on the Antarctic environment include leaving all rocks, egg shells, and other natural objects where they lie; keeping close tabs (and a tight grip) on your belongings to avoid littering; and being sure not to deface or otherwise disturb historical sights and artifacts, not to mention scientific instruments and infrastructure.

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Our travel guides are for informational purposes only. While we aim to provide accurate and up-to-date information, Antarctica Cruises makes no representations as to the accuracy or completeness of any information in our guides or found by following any link on this site.

Antarctica Cruises cannot and will not accept responsibility for any omissions or inaccuracies, or for any consequences arising therefrom, including any losses, injuries, or damages resulting from the display or use of this information.

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Albatros Expeditions Launches Halal Cruise

• July 23, 2024

Albatros Expeditions announced the launch of the first-ever Halal-certified cruise to Antarctica in 2026, according to a press release.

Starting in 2026, Albatros Expeditions will become the first cruise line to operate a Halal-certified kitchen in Antarctica. Led by Southeast Asia Business Development Manager Rashidah Lim, the project is being developed and marketed with the support of Johanna from Marketing, Sara from Middle East Business Development and Product Managers Janina and Steffan.

The 10-day voyage departs on Jan 3. 2026 from Ushuaia aboard the Ocean Albatross.

“We are very proud to be the first movers in the Polar Industry to launch a new, exciting expedition adventure,” said Jens Rasmussen, COO and board member of the Albatros Group. 

“We have always been innovative, exploring new products and ideas inspired by our team, partners, and guests. This is an exciting milestone for us to launch the first Halal-certified cruise to Antarctica. Big thanks to the team behind the project, and Rashidah Lim for her great work making this idea a reality.”

According to the company, travelers of all religious backgrounds are welcome to join the voyage, emphasizing that no pork or alcohol will be served. Additionally, guests are not permitted to bring outside food or beverages onboard.

In addition to Halal-certified dining (Halal accreditation by CrescentRating), the special sailing will also feature ladies-only hours in the onboard sauna.

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