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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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Discover another world beyond our own

Experience the ultimate adventure on an Antarctica cruise

Are you ready for a real adventure? Then set out on one of our thrilling expedition cruises to Antarctica, where you’ll experience the ultimate in polar exploration.

Our Antarctica cruises fully immerse you in the otherworldly polar environment, introducing you to an exotic variety of Antarctic wildlife – whales, seals, penguins, and many other seabirds that can be seen in few other places on the planet.

Not only that, you’ll enjoy exhilarating outdoor activities like kayaking, hiking, mountaineering, scuba diving, and even camping. On our Antarctica cruises, there is never a dull moment.

What you’ll do and see on your cruise to Antarctica

An Oceanwide Antarctica cruise takes you to another world. Enchanting icescapes, beautiful wildlife, and exhilarating shore landings will bring out your inner explorer.

Because you won’t just experience Antarctica from the decks of a vessel; you’ll explore it firsthand, either on foot or in one of our Zodiacs. Our cruises to Antarctica take you as close as possible to every glacier front, iceberg, and mountainous shoreline.

Not to mention all the humpback whales, gentoo penguins, fur seals, and wandering albatrosses you may encounter along the way. On an Antarctic cruise, epic is just the beginning.

Antarctica cruise destinations, activities, and options

Our cruises to Antarctica are as varied as the wildlife. Do you want to take a helicopter flight to a Weddell Sea emperor penguin colony? Do you want to walk the stunning shores of South Georgia, surrounded by elephant seals and king penguins? Or is an activity-filled Basecamp cruise more your speed?

Whatever expedition experience most appeals to you, we have the Antarctica cruise for it. Check out our current list of available cruises to Antarctica, and take the first step in an unforgettable adventure.

Cruises to Antarctica

Atlantic Odyssey incl. Antarctic Peninsula to Cape Verde

HDS30D25 The Atlantic Odyssey cruise visits some of the remotest islands in the world, crossing the migratory paths of Arctic Terns, Long-tailed Skuas, other birds, and a variety of whales as they make their annual expeditions north for the breeding season.

m/v Hondius

Cruise date:

14 Mar - 25 Apr, 2025

Berths start from:

PLA31B26 The Atlantic Odyssey cruise visits some of the remotest islands in the world, crossing the migratory paths of Arctic Terns, Long-tailed Skuas, other birds, and a variety of whales as they make their annual expeditions north for the breeding season.

m/v Plancius

23 Mar - 4 May, 2026

Atlantic Odyssey incl. Antarctic Peninsula to St. Helena

HDS30C25 The Atlantic Odyssey cruise visits some of the remotest islands in the world, crossing the migratory paths of Arctic Terns, Long-tailed Skuas, other birds, and a variety of whales as they make their annual expeditions north for the breeding season.

14 Mar - 15 Apr, 2025

PLA31A26 The Atlantic Odyssey cruise visits some of the remotest islands in the world, crossing the migratory paths of Arctic Terns, Long-tailed Skuas, other birds, and a variety of whales as they make their annual expeditions north for the breeding season.

23 Mar - 24 Apr, 2026

Atlantic Odyssey to Cape Verde

HDS31C25 During the days at sea the chances of meeting whales are high. Witness the northbound spring migration of northern birds like Arctic Terns and Long-tailed Skuas who join us in crossing the Equator (“the Line”).

23 Mar - 25 Apr, 2025

We have a total of 69 cruises

Antarctica cruise video

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Crossing the Drake Passage rewards thousands of tourists every year with one of the most incredible paradises on planet Earth!

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Latest highlight and wildlife

See the highlights you may experience:

• — Hiking on Ascension Island
• — Hiking the Falkland Islands
• — Hiking on St. Helena
• — Zodiac Cruising around the South Orkney Islands

More highlights

• — Antarctic Fur Seal
• — Arctic Tern
• — Emperor Penguin
• — Adelie Penguin

More wildlife

Antarctica cruise photos

Antarctica cruise reviews

Polarkreis expedition, more than perfect, team members.

The destination of this trip were Antartica, Falkland Island , South Georgia in January 2024, for 18 days cruising. For the most part on Hondius, we felt we were discriminated by some of the Expedition team members. This can be seen especially at lunch and dinner time. Most of the team members sit only with Caucasian guests. There were also different attitudes towards Caucasian vs second language English speakers seen throughout this trip. I tried to initiate conversations with some of the team members but gotten minimum replies. It was very different attitude when this team member interacted with Caucasian guests which was always with lots of enthusiasm. I remembered the first day we arrived on the ship, the Team Lead said ‘’ we are on the same ship and we are a big family.’’ But it didn’t feel that we were welcomed throughout the journey. Most of the time it felt been treated as secondary. I understand there was a group of people from other countries who don’t speak English well or at all. But, It doesn’t mean it’s okay to ignore or treat one who doesn’t speak English or who is not Caucasian differently. I am not taking about Language barriers but more about attitudes and Oceanwide appearance in front of its customers from its own expeditions team members. Only the last day or two, some of the team members finally started been seen doing their “homework “ it felt like, by company’s standard I guess..to sit with second language English speaking guests at lunch/dinner whom they have almost never interacted with. The positive sides were the expedition team members were very knowledgeable about Antarctica, from water, ice , birds, whales, winds, penguins, Hondius ….etc. They were able to answer every question, putting efforts to lectures and landings. They even tried to use rope to show us how long each different whale looked like. The Team from the restaurant was impressive, very nice service, excellent food. Front desk, super sweet, friendly and helpful. Housekeeping, they kept our room and bed clean and cozy, surprised towel animals every day. However it does not justify how we were been discriminated. Once again, you can’t treat your guests differently by skin color.

Atlantic odyssey

Atlantic odyssey.

The best Atlantic Odyssey

FAQ's about Antarctica cruises

Where is antarctica.

Antarctica is the fifth largest of the seven continents. Antarctica has two large indentations which are the Ross Sea and the Weddell Sea. The nearest continent is South America. The total surface of Antarctica is 14.2 Million square kilometres (about 5.5 million square miles) in summer.

What is the time zone in Antarctica?

The time zone in Antarctica is the same as the time zone in New Zealand:  GMT + 12 hours. On regular Antarctic trips we operate in the same time zone as Ushuaia, Argentina: GMT – 3 hours. 

Is it dangerous to visit Antarctica?

No, the remote location, frozen landscape, and unpredictable weather can make tourism operations in Antarctica tricky, but Oceanwide Expeditions has the right experience, knowledge, and expertise to stay safe in the Antarctic. 

What is the climate at Antarctica?

Antarctica is the coldest and also the windiest continent in the world. The lowest temperature on Earth was recorded in Antarctica. There are three climatic regions in Antarctica:

During the summer months temperatures in the Antarctic Peninsula range between -2°C - +5 °C. In the Ross Sea it can get significantly colder with temperatures down to -20°C. 

Can I do the polar plunge during my trip?

What is your protocol regarding avian flu.

We follow the protocol advised by IAATO. Before leaving for your voyage, please make sure anything you bring that may come into contact with the environment (clothes, equipment, etc.) is thoroughly cleaned and disinfected. We ask that you do not sit, kneel, or lay down during our landings. Please also do not place anything on the ground. You will receive a document with further information after booking.

On this page you find all information you need to know about the avian influenza outbreaks, including biosecurity protocols.

Photo gallery

89 photos of the Antarctica in the gallery »

About Antarctica cruises

Weather you can expect on your cruise to antarctica.

Your Antarctica cruise will show you some of Earth’s most beautiful scenery in one of its least hospitable environments: Antarctica is the coldest, windiest, and driest of all the continents, though it grants travelers access to some of the most dazzling sights the planet has to offer.

Grey peaks stab out of the wind-carved snow, passing icebergs dot the dark blue waters, and wildlife that can be seen nowhere else reminds you that you’re truly in another world when you are on an Antarctica cruise.

Along the Antarctic coastline, temperatures can reach as high as 10°C (50°F) during a hot summer day. On a regular day, it can plummet to barely above freezing. But that doesn’t mean you’ll be uncomfortable. Our vessels are designed to make your cruise to Antarctica as pleasant as possible, and we’ll give you all the packing info you need to stay warm and dry from beginning to end.

Fun facts to prepare you for your Antarctica cruise

• Antarctica is larger than Europe
• Because Antarctica experiences so little precipitation, it is technically a desert
• The name “Antarctica” comes from a Greek phrase meaning “opposite to north”
• Almost 62% of the freshwater ice on Earth exists in Antarctica, enough to raise the oceans by about 60 meters (197 feet) if it melted today
• The coldest temperature ever recorded was at the Antarctic research station Vostok, on July 21, 1983, when the thermometer dropped to -89.2°C (-128.6°F), cold enough to shatter steel
• Despite the cold, the biggest documented mass of living creatures — a 10,000,000-ton school of krill — was spotted in the Antarctic
• The first confirmed sighting of Antarctica was in 1820, though it would take almost a century — until 1911, to be exact — before a human being set foot on the continent

Join us on a once-in-a-lifetime cruise to Antarctica

An Antarctica cruise introduces you to a seldom-seen side of our planet. It means visiting a part of Earth that has remained largely unchanged since Aristotle first wrote of Terra Australis, or the “Land of the South,” centuries before Antarctica would be seen by human eyes.

Taking a cruise to Antarctica also means acquainting yourself with the real survivalists of the Antarctic: the seals, whales, penguins, and other seabirds who call the region home.

Our Antarctica cruises offer you an experience unlike any you have ever had. Whether you’re kayaking among towering icebergs, hiking near inquisitive penguins, or camping beneath the wild polar skies, your cruise to Antarctica will redefine your notion of adventure.

• Expeditions
• Complimentary Brochures
• Buenos Aires to Ushuaia

Antarctic Explorer

• From $12,995
• 2 Countries
• Dates & Pricing
• 2024 2025 2026

Antarctic Explorer Map

Discover the “Last Continent”

This ultimate adventure takes you to the Antarctic peninsula, where you will witness towering glaciers, snow-covered landscapes, immense icebergs and once-in-a-lifetime wildlife viewing. In the footsteps of explorers such as Amundsen, Shackleton and Scott, you will be one of the few to discover the world’s last truly wild frontier. Each day brings new surprises and the opportunity to change plans to maximize wildlife sightings and adapt to ever-changing weather.

SUMMER SOLSTICE SALE

Viking Inclusive Value

We include more features & services than others

To learn more about each port of call and our included as well as optional excursions, click on the individual days below.

Itinerary and shore excursions are subject to change and may vary by departure.

More features, services and excursions included

One complimentary landing or shore excursion in every port of call

Free Wi-Fi (connection speed may vary)

Beer, wine & soft drinks with onboard lunch & dinner

24-hour specialty coffees, teas  & bottled water

Port taxes & fees

Ground transfers with Viking Air purchase

Visits to UNESCO Sites

Enrichment lectures & Destination Performances

Complimentary access to The Nordic Spa & Fitness Center.

Self-service launderettes

Alternative restaurant dining at no extra charge

24-hour room service

Kayaks, Zodiacs & Special Operations Boats — A Viking Expedition Kit with a variety of equipment to explore at no extra charge

Keepsake Viking expedition jacket (on polar itineraries)

All Viking excursion gear needed for any relevant excursions

Your Stateroom Includes:

King-size bed (optional twin-bed configuration) with luxury linens & pillows

55" OLED flat-screen TV featuring CNN, CBC, MBC2, beIN Sports

Interactive TV with complimentary movies and documentaries, as well as Viking.TV proprietary content, lectures and expert interviews

Personal coffee machine with premium coffee & tea selections

Floor-to-ceiling heated drying closets for expeditions gear

Spacious glass-enclosed shower

Heated bathroom floor

Anti-fog mirrors

Premium Freyja® toiletries

110/220 volt outlets & USB ports

Meopta Optika MeoPro 8x42 binoculars

Pre & Post Cruise Extensions

Explore more before or after your expedition. Ask your Viking Expert for more information. Pre & Post Cruise Extensions vary by itinerary and are subject to change.

Pre: Buenos Aires & the Paraná Delta

From $1,999 | 3 Nights

Pre: Iguazú Falls

From $4,999 | 4 Nights

Pre: Rapa Nui (Easter Island)

From $4,599 | 4 Nights

Pre: Atacama Desert

From $4,599 | 5 Nights

Post: Gateway to Patagonia

From $4,499 | 5 Nights

Post: Buenos Aires

From $199 | 1 Nights

Post: The Best of Peru

From $5,599 | 5 Nights

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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.

For more cruise guides, tips and news, sign up for TPG's cruise newsletter .

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 & Expeditions

Antarctica Cruise Ships

Expedition cruise vessels are a world apart from your average ocean cruise liner; small, agile and exclusively designed for intrepid exploration, built to withstand the most extreme environs and climatic conditions around the Southern Ocean .

Select from the finest selection of polar class Antarctica cruise ships available below, operated by only the most trusted of partners, preeminent pioneers in polar exploration who offer exceptional itineraries, unrivaled knowledge, and utmost levels of service.

For more information to help you choose between ships, and to better understand the differences between vessel categories and their polar classifications, see our Antarctica cruise ship guide .

Ocean Albatros

Ultramarine

Greg mortimer.

Ocean Victory

World Explorer

Sylvia Earle

Magellan Explorer

Ocean Adventurer

Ocean explorer.

MS Fridtjof Nansen

MS Roald Amundsen

Ocean Endeavour

Le Lapérouse

MS Expedition

Heritage Adventurer

Le Commandant Charcot

Antarctica cruise routes.

Part of the adventure of an Antarctic expedition is in the difficulty and anticipation of getting there , a rite of passage for the privilege of visiting one of the most spectacular, awe-inspiring places on the planet, its geographical prominence and vast scale affording a variety of ways to reach and witness its cornucopia of natural wonders.

Explore the most popular routes to cruise Antarctica, its prized peninsula, and its equally alluring sub-Antarctic island neighbors below.

Unsure which route you prefer? Learn more about their differences in our helpful Antarctica cruise routes guide .

Antarctica Fly-Cruise

Drake passage cruise, antarctic peninsula cruise, antarctica, falklands & south georgia cruise, antarctic circle cruise, weddell sea cruise, ross sea & east antarctica cruise, best-selling antarctica cruises.

Whilst most Antarctic voyages and expeditions entail exploration of the more temperate and accessible Antarctic Peninsula, the Seventh Continent and surrounds are privy to a plenitude of polar delights: the habitat for hardy penguin , pinniped and pelagic species ; historic setting for the Heroic Age of Antarctic Exploration ; and pristine playground for adventure pursuits of all kinds—from snowshoeing and kayaking, to camping on the ice itself.

Indulge in them all with the most popular Antarctica cruises available below.

Classic Antarctica Air-Cruise

Antarctic explorer: discovering the 7th continent.

In-Depth Antarctica, Falklands & South Georgia Expedition

South shetland islands & antarctic peninsula.

Antarctica - Basecamp

Antarctic Circle Expedition

Antarctic express: fly the drake, classic antarctica, spirit of antarctica, antarctica cruise themes.

To help you filter the Antarctic forays above, we’ve curated a series of Antarctica cruise themes, subdividing the expedition cruise sector into styles of exploration to suit your preferred type of experience.

Are you a spellbound solo traveler or shutterbug , captivated kith and kin , or enthralled nature or history buff? Perhaps you’re someone seeking more active adventure , a guaranteed White Christmas , the chance to see the iconic Emperor penguin , or the high latitude high life ? Or maybe you’re a large group of explorers ? Whatever your preference, discover the draws of this pristine, primordial polar paradise your way.

• Emperor Penguin
• Photography

The Antarctica Expedition Experience

There are no words to adequately describe Antarctica, no superlatives sufficient for capturing and conveying its ineffable immensity and importance, its sheer scale and significance too great to distill into logical sentences.

For centuries this glistening, glacial-encrusted continent has been a siren for sealers, scientists, and adventure seekers alike, a brilliant white beacon for brave explorers and pinnacle of polar odysseys exalting from pack ice.

Amid the haunting laments of calving icebergs and raucous calls of resident penguins, seals and seabirds, arresting, awakening and visceral experiences abound here, ones that you’ll eternally evoke as the trip of your lifetime.

Explore With Experts

As purveyors of pioneering, small-ship expeditions that optimize a passenger’s polar experience, we promise to minimize your time on ship and maximize your time on shore for a more immersive and authentic Antarctic adventure.

Guided by specialist advisors pre-trip to select the ideal expedition for you, and escorted by distinguished naturalists on excursion, you’ll actively explore this wild and wonderful frozen continent, gliding around enormous tabular icebergs and breaching whales by Zodiac or kayak, and walking along beaches peppered with penguins and seals. Let our experts take you deep into the heart of this majestic environment so it can get into yours.

Cross The Drake Passage

Antarctica doesn’t give up its prized natural treasures easily. Everyone who comes to this isolated continent must ‘earn it’, none more so than those embarking on an expedition cruise from South America’s “Land of Fire”, Tierra del Fuego , bound for Antarctica’s antithetical “Land of Ice”.

In your path, lies one of the world’s most violent bodies of water, the Drake Passage, where three seas converge in a frenzied cocktail of inconceivably strong currents and cyclones, whipping up ferocious waves and winds of frightening magnitudes. Crossing this legendary waterway is a rite of passage, following in the wake of many of history’s greatest explorers.

Meet The Penguins

Synonymous with this most southerly of continents, these ever-anthropomorphised birds fearlessly greet newcomers to the White Continent, a myriad of bustling miniature butlers in waiting, perhaps more accurately portrayed as the jostling and jovial jesters of this ice-crowned court with their playful, clumsy and comical antics.

From the perfect “tuxedo” plumage of the Adélie penguin and bushy-browed Macaroni to the fabulously debonair Emperor penguin, the world’s largest, the polar region of Antarctica offers an intimate look inside a world of unique avifauna and sea life that have adapted to survive the most extreme climate on earth. 

Live The Fairytale

Discover a frozen fairytale land whose very existence defies logic, a desert covered in prehistoric ice, dislodged from time itself, a dreamscape drenched in the eerie, eternal light of the austral summer sun where katabatic winds can remake the view before your very eyes.

Here, bizarrely no official time zone exists, and all the lines of longitude segmenting the planet converge at the South Pole, a singular, frigid focal point where confoundingly every hour on earth is happening instantaneously. It is a place preserved for peace and science that does not belong to any one person or nation, a paragon of cooperation, and shimmering symbol of hope for all humanity.

Follow In Their Footsteps

Antarctica’s shores echo with the travails of the great polar explorers from Shackleton and Mawson, to Amundsen and Scott. Follow in their frosted footsteps, feel their pioneering spirit of adventure on the sea air, and imagine their plight forging their way through pack ice on a creaking wooden boat or hauling sledges lionheartedly across the Polar Plateau.

Visit some of the historic huts that still remain, preserved in rime ice, literally frozen in time, to tell the story of Antarctic adventures long since past, and enjoy an honored front-row seat to their gallant scientific endeavors and the incredible history of the Heroic Age of Antarctic Exploration.

Go With The Floe

Antarctica is a destination that demands absolute adaptability, not just from the hardy species that have evolved to survive its seemingly uninhabitable climate but also from those visiting tourists who will find themselves at the whim of the White Continent’s capricious and formidable elements. Here it is ice and weather, not clocks and calendars, that dictate polar proceedings, and patience and flexibility are paramount.

Absolve yourself of preconceived notions of particular landings, scheduled pursuits and wildlife sightings—every expedition is unique—and instead embrace the unknown and blissfully freeing lack of a plan. Bow to the will of providence, surrender any semblance of control, and enjoy the spoils.

Pen Your Polar Experience

Commit your personal polar experience to paper and eternity, as Douglas Mawson, famous Antarctic explorer so eloquently did:

“The tranquility of the water heightened the superb effects of this glacial world. Majestic tabular bergs whose crevices exhaled a vaporous azure; lofty spires, radiant turrets and splendid castles; honeycombed masses illumined by pale green light within whose fairy labyrinths the water washed and gurgled.

Seals and penguins on magic gondolas were the silent denizens of this dreamy Venice. In the soft glamor of the midsummer midnight sun, we were possessed by a rapturous wonder: the rare thrill of unreality.”

Become An Antarctic Ambassador

Many visitors to Antarctica leave having been deeply affected by its humbling grandeur, experiencing soul-stirring epiphanies, and gaining profound new perspectives about the planet and their place within it.

To witness Antarctica’s beauty and fragility first-hand, to connect with it and its inhabitants, and learn of its centrality to life as we know, will undoubtedly inspire you to become an Antarctic Ambassador, championing the importance of protecting its spectacular biodiversity in the face of climate change and unsustainable resource consumption, educating and uniting others in its cause, and advocating the collective responsibility for its crucial conservation.

Antarctica Expedition Cruise Guide

Laying undiscovered to mankind until the eighteenth century , no continent is as remote or uncharted as Antarctica, an otherworldly, timeless realm steeped in heroic tales of human endeavor.

With its heady allure of unbridled adventure, inquisitive inhabitants, and dazzling icescapes, it’s perhaps easy to forget this is one of the world’s wildest frontiers, and an Antarctic expedition should not be undertaken lightly .

Prepare yourself properly for the voyage of a lifetime with our comprehensive Antarctica travel guide .

Why Visit Antarctica? Top 10 Reasons To Go

Antarctica cruise routes: which itinerary is best for you, 8 best places to visit in antarctica.

Antarctica Cruise Ships: Which Expedition Vessel Is Best?

The most inhospitable travel destinations in the world, best time to visit antarctica: wildlife & weather by month, optional adventure activities on antarctica cruises, ready for the adventure of a lifetime.

Get in touch with us via phone or form today and you’ll be assigned a dedicated Antarctica specialist who’ll be with you every step of the way to help you choose, book and plan the right Antarctica cruise for you. Here’s how it works:

Listen & Match

We’ll carefully listen to your aspirations and curate an impartial shortlist of personalized polar cruise recommendations—and pre- and post-cruise extensions—to match your desired experience.

Reserve & Relax

Next we’ll place a free, no obligation, 24-hour cabin hold on your preferred cruise option whilst we discuss the final details. Book and relax safe in the knowledge you’ll be paying the lowest price guaranteed.

Prepare & Travel

Then we’ll provide you with our expert packing advice, insider travel tips, and more to ensure you are fully prepared for—and maximize your enjoyment of—your once-in-a-lifetime Antarctica expedition.

• With Partner/Friend
• With Family
• As Part Of A Group
• Exploration Heritage
• Antarctic Peninsula
• Antarctic Circle
• Falklands/S. Georgia
• Weddell Sea
• Ross Sea/E. Antarctica

DEAL FLASH: Get 30% Off & An Exclusive $600 Air Credit On The Nov 14 Departure On World Explorer

Antarctica Cruises

Unforgettable Antarctica Cruises

Embark on an unforgettable adventure to the last great wilderness: Antarctica. AdventureSmith Explorations offers a curated selection of Antarctica cruises designed to immerse you in the pristine beauty and raw power of this frozen continent. Unlike the generic Antarctica cruise experiences, our small ship expeditions prioritize personalized attention, expert-led exploration, and intimate encounters with the region’s awe-inspiring wildlife.

Whether you seek exhilarating Zodiac rides through ice floes teeming with penguins and seals, awe-inspiring hikes on glaciers sculpted by millennia of wind and ice, or simply the profound peace of standing amidst a landscape untouched by time, we have the perfect Antarctica cruise for you. Ditch the ordinary and choose an expedition that will leave you breathless with wonder. Contact us today to plan your life-changing Antarctica adventure.

Experience unparalleled access to activities and adventure gear on this 12- to 14-day Antarctica air cruise aboard two modern polar ships designed for adventure, education and conservation. Fly one way and skip the Drake Passage to dive, snorkel and kayak sooner.

Cruise the Antarctic Peninsula in style aboard a selection of premier expedition ships. Antarctica cruises combine wildlife viewing, shore landings, visits to scientific bases, breathtaking waterways, glaciers and icebergs.

These 13 days are packed with activities led by expert guides: kayaking, hiking, snowshoeing, camping, mountaineering and photography or navigation workshops. Spend more time in fewer locations and capitalize on getting to know Antarctica through unrushed exploration.

Cruise aboard adventure-ready ship Greg Mortimer for this all-inclusive activities expedition. Pay nothing extra to enjoy paddling, camping, snowshoeing and snorkeling while exploring the Antarctic Peninsula.

Celebrate the opportunity to cross the Antarctic Circle on this 14-day voyage aboard 138-guest Ocean Explorer or 199-guest Ultramarine and enjoy in-depth exploration of the Antarctic Peninsula, penguins and icebergs.

Simply put, National Geographic vessels have the finest naturalist program of all Antarctica cruises. This expedition features included activity options, a unique ROV and an extremely knowledgeable expedition crew.

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Why AdventureSmith Explorations?

Antarctica Cruises with AdventureSmith

Cruising Antarctica with AdventureSmith is the ultimate way to explore up close and in style. Since 2003 thousands of travelers have trusted our small ship cruise and expedition cruise specialists to help them research, choose, book and plan the right Antarctica small ship cruise at the best price.

We are award-winning U.S.-based experts with decades of experience. You will benefit from our firsthand knowledge. Our professional crew will help you with everything you need for a seamless cruise package. Why book Antarctica with AdventureSmith Explorations?

Personalized

Work with one full-service Adventure Specialist to research, purchase, & prepare for your cruise.

We’re well traveled & savvy to the latest options, including all the new Antarctic itineraries and ships.

Kayaking, camping, skiing… Our staff has experience doing it all & can match your activity interests.

Take advantage of early-booking deals, discounted flights & other cruise perks. We’re here to help you save.

Antarctica Small Ship Cruises Our Specialty

When choosing an Antarctica vessel, know this: small ships explore where the big ships cannot. Landings are limited to 100 guests on shore. Ships carrying more than 500 guests aren’t allowed to land at all. Smaller is better on Antarctic cruises. Learn how to choose the best cruise and find in depth articles with our detailed Antarctica cruising guide .

The ships we work with carry 72-200 guests ensuring active and intimate explorations. We specialize in this size range because we know from experience it’s the most active, informative and sustainable way to cruise Antarctica. Learn more about the unique ships on our Antarctica expeditions. We’ll find your perfect Antarctica ship .

Antarctica Expeditions for Every Interest

An expedition is defined as a journey or voyage undertaken by a group of people with a particular purpose. This perfectly captures the spirit of Antarctica small ship expeditions, which focus on daily off-vessel explorations with expert naturalist guides.

Travelers seeking more adventure can book a range of activities including sea kayaking, camping, skiing, snowshoeing, scuba diving or trekking. Learn more about the active things to do in Antarctica .

Other specialties include luxury Antarctica cruises , Falkland & South Georgia Island cruises , cruises with flights to Antarctica . Our experts are your guide to the perfect voyage.

Timely South Pole Cruise Info

Find up to date information on the current, upcoming or future Antarctica seasons. Read about Antarctica 2024 for the latest updates, check availability or plan ahead to Antarctica 2025-2026 . We have the most up-to-date Antarctica travel requirements to inform your planning.

“ Smaller is better on Antarctic cruises. ”

PICTURE YOURSELF HERE

Our experts have been. We’ll get you there.

100+ combined years of experience, 7 continents explored, decades of expedition cruising around the world & here to help you find & book your dream trip.

Antarctica Ships

Our Antarctica expedition ships carry 70-200 passengers and are designed for every travel style and budget. Boats range from simple and budget-minded small ships to mid-range vessels with years of experience and modern luxury expedition ships.

View the top ships below. Or visit our Antarctica ship page and our how to choose an Antarctica cruise guide to learn everything you need know about selecting the perfect boat for your cruise to Antarctica.

Book onto this brand new expedition ship—launching in 2025—to enjoy adventure-ready, sustainable, comfortable and cutting-edge design. Expect skilled and knowledgeable guides who share the same passion for exploration as the ship's namesake.

The 138-guest National Geographic Resolution is one of the newest additions to the National Geographic fleet. This expedition ship is specifically designed for stability, efficiency, scholarship and long-range exploration in the polar regions.

The new Ultramarine 199-passenger polar ship is purpose-built for safety and far-off exploration in Antarctica and the Arctic. Dual helicopter pads and an incredible 70-day cruising range allow access to the hardest-to-reach places.

The 76- to 96-guest Magellan Explorer is a brand new expedition ship built specifically for Antarctica fly cruises. This polar class 6 vessel features stylish design with technical advances for smooth and safe expeditions.

The 200-passenger Ocean Endeavour is a comfortable, well-appointed small expedition ship expertly engineered to explore the polar regions. The ship has an ice-strengthened hull, Zodiacs for exploration and remote landings, generous deck space and advanced navigation equipment.

The 170-guest M/V Hondius was built exclusively for cruises in Antarctica and the Arctic. She is one of the strongest ice-strengthened vessels currently cruising in the polar regions.

Planning Your Antarctica Cruise

Planning an Antarctic expedition requires a lot of logistics. Most of our clients have many questions such as: How do I get to Antarctica? Where do I embark the ship? What is the best time to view penguin chicks? How do I  prepare for rough seas on a cruise  to Antarctica? Our comprehensive  Antarctica travel guide  answers your questions about planning a cruise. See what’s new. Identify the essentials for cruises to Antarctica and pin down what to expect once you arrive. Learn about  Antarctica cruise cost ,  how to get to Antarctica , the  best time is to visit Antarctica  and more. We share tips and tricks to ensure you have the best experience cruising Antarctica.

There are more small ships than ever cruising Antarctica with vessels and itinerary options for every style and budget. This up-to-date guide culls the best tips for a comprehensive look at Antarctica travel today.

From cruise costs by season to money-saving tips, our experts crunch the numbers to help you answer the question “How much does it cost to go to Antarctica?”

When is the best time to go to Antarctica? On the White Continent, the answer isn’t so black-and-white. Consult this month-by-month list covering everything from penguins to pack ice to help guide your travel timing.

Learn about things to do in Antarctica, and how our experts can help you achieve your bucket list activities. Antarctica has so much to offer and our small ship cruise lines focus on experiencing the White Continent in an active, up-close way; here we explain how.

Learn more about the Antarctica landscape with our guide to places in Antarctica. Select your regions as a starting point for booking your perfect Antarctica trip, with the knowledge of our experts.

What Travelers Say About Their Cruises to Antarctica

Excellent, a crown jewel in our world travels. There wasn't a flaw in the arrangements and the experience.

All of the staff were very professional and had the experience needed to make the trip the best!

Wow, wow, wow!!! 3 course dinners, 5 star food, 100% satisfied. The staff and crew on the Plancius was amazing!!!

Each and every landing was unique. My husband and I enjoyed not just every one but their frequency as well.

Antarctica is a winning destination...but the fantastic service and attitude of the staff put this trip right over the top! I'm TELLING YOU, this was a FANTASTIC TEAM that I will never forget!

Excellent, a crown jewel in our world travels. There wasn't a flaw in the arrangements and the experience. All of the travelers were enthusiastic and friendly.

Meals Review

The chef and her staff were amazing and the menus absolutely gorgeous.

Crew & Guides Review

All of the experts and guides were topnotch.

Traveler Advice

Open heart, open mind and pack lightly. There were at least 2000 people trying to pass immigration and zero organization in the [Buenos Aires] airport. I would suggest, when possible, booking arrival for closer to noon.

Accommodations Review

Cabin was quite comfortable and staff took good care each time we were out. Camping was fun.  The only thing I was upset about was that there were not enough bivvies for all 60 people who signed up for camping and we literally had to make a run for it to be one of the lucky ones. For me, this was a criteria for picking this trip and had I NOT been one of the lucky ones I would have been quite disappointed.

Most meals were quite well done and certainly presentation was excellent. Some meals lacked flavor but that did not prevent us from eating enough. I know it is a challenge to make every meal GREAT and still compliment the chef.  

Shane did a very good job of keeping things on track. A couple of suggestions - make sure you have enough hiking poles for everyone on each hike. One of them the first wave of people took all of the poles and for us there were none left and the snow was quite deep. We were on the first landing and the staff caught on for the 2nd landing and notified those folks to please just take 1 pole so everyone has at least 1 pole.   

AdventureSmith Explorations Review

Nicely done and quickly answered all questions we had.  

Follow all the tips given on the Quark/AdventureSmith websites - it pays off. 

Featured in this Traveler Review

• Antarctic Explorer
• Quark Expeditions

The staff and crew on the Plancius was amazing!!! Professional, funny, knowledgeable, and friendly. The ship was perfect for small outings. I never felt cramped, no long lines, and it allowed everyone to experience the landings. The staff gave us the most for our dollar and even squeezed in an extra landing! Everything was well organized and planned. The added surprise bonus was the food!! Wow :) I was not expecting such high quality food a day presentation.

It was a little warm with no AC, but the room layout, space, storage, etc was perfect.

Wow, wow, wow!!! 3 course dinners, 5 star food, 100% satisfied.

Andrew Bishop was phenomenal! Well organized, humorous, and obviously loves his job. Liz Pope was equally amazing, the hotel manager and assistant (Johnny and Heidi) were so helpful and responsive. Kasper Jaeger was a great help with photography and really knew the areas. Louise adie was an incredible kayak guide! She was as excited as all of us when going out. She was honest about whether the kayak or zodiac landing was better and was knowledgeable in so many areas.

Provided information timely, followed up if I forgot something, and provided material to help make transitions and travel easier.

Each and every landing was unique. My husband and I enjoyed not just every one but their frequency as well. The Ortelius crew went above and beyond to ensure we spent as much time on land as possible.

It would have been great for there to be a fruit basket or something along those lines available around the clock for when we got hungry (which was surprisingly more than usual).

All of the guides were very professional and knowledgeable. I especially enjoyed listening to their lectures.

No surprises and quick responses from Aaron Gaines. Both of those things were greatly appreciated.

Antarctica is a winning destination...but the fantastic service and attitude of the staff put this trip right over the top!  Everything ran extremely smoothly and was well organized by coordinators.  I felt well prepared with information and expectations for the trip.  The on-board expedition staff was just great: enthusiastic, filled with expertise, accommodating, and just a joy to be with!

Cheli Larsen (Expedition leader) has a wonderful set of skills: very well versed in all aspects of the trip, fantastic at assessing her customers and their interests, and great at communicating what was going on and why. The customer's frankly all fell in love with the expedition team and it was clear they were all in love with Cheli! Subject Matter experts: Colin, Colin S., Jim, and Damien were a great team. Time spent with them was my best time on the trip! Guides Emma, Marla, Val, and Dave were all exceptional. I don't mean to simply be "gushy" in this feedback; I'm TELLING YOU, this was a FANTASTIC TEAM that I will never forget!  

I felt well prepared for the trip.  Given the guidance I was given, I had all my papers properly organized for the phases of the trip in case I needed to refer to any (reciprocity tax, proof of evacuation insurance, etc.). The logistics went very smoothly. AdventureSmith clearly works with the creme-de-la-creme of Adventure Travel companies. Their selection of Quark Expeditions for this adventure was one that was very well placed. Having AdventureSmith to help me coordinate the logistics and prepare myself helped to ensure everything went extremely smoothly!

Don't take too many clothes!  Bring adequate and make use of on-board laundry!

Save on Your Antarctica Cruise

Our Antarctica cruise deals page lists every current special offer available. Find tips to help you save on Antarctic cruises. Ultimately the best way to get the lowest price is to speak with one of our Antarctica experts. Our professional crew know the nuances of Antarctic cruising logistics, including the ideal time to book and how to secure the best-priced cabin.

Save up to 20% per person when you book your select 2024-2025 or 2025-2026 Antarctica expedition aboard the Seaventure.

Stop dreaming about Antarctica and start planning! For a limited time, this offer saves you up to $2,000 on select 2025-2026 Antarctica Air-Cruise departures.

Book your select 2024-25 Antarctica expedition cruise now to receive up to 20% off and $2,000 in air credit per person.

Book your select Antarctica expedition cruise and save up to 30% based on trip, departure and cabin type.

Save up to 25% when you book your select 2024 or 2025 Antarctica expedition aboard Ocean Endeavour.

Save 10% per person on select October 2024-March 2025, or save up to 20% on select October 2025-March 2026 departures of the below-linked Antarctic Latitudes polar expedition.

Offer valid on new bookings only, subject to availability and cannot be combined with any other offer, except an additional 5% off on all October 2024-March 2025 departures when you pay in full within 7 days of booking. Discount is based on departure and cabin selection. See all  Antarctica cruise deals  for a comprehensive list of current savings on this and other adventures.

• Antarctic Latitudes

Reach Antarctica quickly by flight and cruise through icy and magical landscapes. Book your select 2025 or 2026 departure of the below-linked Classic Antarctica Air-Cruise aboard Ocean Nova or Magellan Explorer to save up to $2,000 per person.

Offer valid on new bookings only, subject to availability and cannot be combined with any other offer. See all  Antarctica cruise deals  for a comprehensive list of current savings on this and other adventures.

• Antarctica Air Cruise

Receive up to 20% off and up to $2,000 in air credit per person when you book a select 2024-25 season departure of the below-linked Antarctica expeditions aboard Greg Mortimer or Sylvia Earle.

Offer valid on new bookings only, subject to availability and cannot be combined with any other offers. See all Antarctica cruise deals for a comprehensive list of current savings on these and other adventures.

• Spirit of Antarctica Expedition
• South Georgia & Antarctic Odyssey Cruise
• Active & Wild Antarctica Air Cruise

Save up to 30% when you book a select 2024-25 or 2025-26 departure of the below-linked Antarctica expedition cruises.

Offer valid on new bookings only, subject to availability and cannot be combined with any other offer. Discount varies by cabin selection. Ask your Adventure Specialist for details and applicable savings; rates listed on our website reflect the currently available discount. See all  Antarctica cruise deals  for a comprehensive list of current savings on these and other adventures.

• Crossing the Antarctic Circle
• Antarctic Express: Fly the Drake
• South Georgia & Antarctic Peninsula: Penguin Safari
• Epic Antarctica: Crossing the Circle via Falklands & South Georgia
• Explorers & Kings
• Emperor Penguin Quest: Expedition to Snow Hill

Save up to 25% when you book your select 2024 or 2025 departure of the below-linked expeditions aboard Ocean Endeavour.

20-25% off:

• Shackleton's Antarctica, South Georgia, & Falklands Explorer ; Oct 13-Nov 19, 2024
• Best of Antarctica: Pristine Wilderness ; Nov 18-Nov 28, 2024 & Nov 27-Dec 7, 2024
• Best of Antarctica: In Depth Expedition ; Dec 6-Dec 19, 2024
• Best of Antarctica: Wildlife Explorer ; Dec 18-Dec 28, 2024 & Dec 28, 2024-Jan 6, 2025

10-15% off:

• Best of Antarctica: Wildlife Explorer ; Jan 26-Feb 5, 2025
• Journey to the Antarctic Circle ; Feb 4-Feb 17, 2025 & Feb 25-Mar 10, 2025

Offer valid on new bookings only, subject to availability and cannot be combined with any other offer. Applicable on category 1-4 cabins. See all  Antarctica cruise deals  for a comprehensive list of current savings on these and other adventures.

• Best of Antarctica
• Journey to the Antarctic Circle
• Shackleton’s Antarctica, South Georgia & Falklands Explorer

Our Experts Are Your Ticket to Antarctica

Need help narrowing down all the options to cruise Antarctica? Our experts are just a phone call or email away. Contact us to receive a free quote and a personalized recommendation. We are eager to assist you with the best small ship cruise to Antarctica for your interests, timing and budget. Still want to research cruises to Antarctica yourself? Head to our Antarctica Cruise Search to filter cruises by travel dates, month or price range. Your cruise to Antarctica awaits!

Contact Us - Antarctica Cruises

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9 Best Small Ship Expedition Cruises to Antarctica

Published 2nd November 2023 in Travel Advice By Edwina Lonsdale /adventure-news/travel-advice/best-antarctica-cruises

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An expedition cruise to Antarctica is a truly remarkable adventure, a voyage to a pristine land of ice and snow, populated by an all-star cast of penguins, seals and whales. These are 9 of the best Antarctica cruise ships and expedition cruises to Antarctica to book now.

But with ever more expedition cruises visiting the 'White Continent', it can be tricky to work out which ship is the right one for you. As you would expect, trips to Antarctica are not cheap, so this is an important decision to get right. For some travellers, luxury and comfort will be of the utmost importance, while others will be more concerned with the quality of the onboard expedition team or the tools and gadgets on offer to facilitate in-depth exploration.

With this in mind, we've put together this guide to the best Antarctic expedition cruises.

9 of the best expedition cruises to Antarctica to book now

1. silversea expeditions.

Excitingly, in 2022 the new Silver Endeavour , formerly the Crystal Endeavour, replaced Silver Explorer in the area leaving Silversea operating one of the best and most luxurious purpose-built expeditions vessels in the region; along with their ships Silver Cloud and Silver Wind , which both joined the expedition fleet after being converted from a 'classic' ship in 2017 and 2022 respectively, offering enhanced comfort levels on board.

The Silversea all-inclusive proposition ensures you avoid any added extras to the (admittedly high) up-front cost. Most cruises depart from Ushuaia or Puerto Williams , and Silversea offer a chartered air connection from Buenos Aires or Santiago. You can also avoid the Drake Passage crossing with Silversea's 'Antarctica Bridge' itineraries, which include return flights between Punta Arenas and King George Island, though some would argue that if you haven't sailed the Drake, you haven't really been to Antarctica!

Lectures are of a high standard, and you can expect to always be with an expert, whether in the zodiacs or ashore, as a result of the excellent guest to guide ratio of about one guide to every 12 guests. You can expect two landings per day, weather permitting.

2. Quark Expeditions

Quark's expertise is specifically polar - they focus on Arctic and Antarctic sailings only. With a variety of Antarctica cruise ships and price points, you have quite a choice of different itineraries, including a rare opportunity to sail as far south as the Antarctic Circle (66 degrees 33). Of their fleet we recommend the Ultramarine, their newest vessel and the first fully Quark-owned and operated ship and the World Explorer, which launched in 2019.

Look out for sailings with included opportunities for camping, kayaking and stand-up paddle boarding, which distinguish some Quark vessels from the competition. Those wishing to avoid the potentially bumpy journey across the Drake Passage can fly the Drake from Punta Arenas and join their ship in King George Island. This is an interesting option but one that may suffer from adverse weather conditions.

Find out more about Antarctica...

Our expedition cruising guide to Antarctica will tell you everything you need to know, including when to visit, what to see and how to get there.

3. Lindblad Expeditions

The pioneer Lars-Eric Lindblad led the first ever citizen-explorer expedition to Antarctica in 1966, inventing the concept of expedition travel. Experience matters, particularly when you are travelling way off the beaten track. For safety and insight, Lindblad, with hundreds of Antarctic expeditions under their belts, really stand out.

Lindblad ships carry a whole range of 'Tools for Exploration': Zodiacs and kayaks of course, but also a remote-controlled crow's nest camera with real-time footage broadcast on video screens within each cabin; a video microscope to view Antarctica's invisible facets, and a hydrophone to listen in on whales.

Their ice masters and expedition leaders are the best, and include an undersea specialist aboard every voyage who dives to capture video footage shown in the ship's lounge. National Geographic Explorer and Orion are also each equipped with an ROV (Remotely Operated Vehicle) capable of exploring depths up to 1,000 feet. What's more, there's a National Geographic photographer on every departure.

4. AE Expeditions (part of Aurora Expeditions)

AE Expeditions have been operating in Antarctica since 1991, perviously under the name Aurora Expeditions, with a focus on immersive experiences rather than onboard luxury. They offer an innovative range of activities in Antarctica , including trekking, camping, scuba diving, sea kayaking, cross-country skiing, snowshoeing and climbing.

We are particularly impressed with AE Expedition's modern ships. The Greg Mortimer, named after company founder, arrived in 2019 and was joined by a sister ship, the Sylvia Earle, in 2022. The the first expedition vessel in the Antarctic to use the revolutionary X-BOW design, which offers a smoother sailing experience, reduces noise and vibrations, and results in reduced emissions.

5. Hapag-Lloyd Cruises

Hapag-Lloyd's much loved Hanseatic recently retired after wintering in Antarctica since the early '90s, and Hapag was for years the only luxury operator in the area, with a stand-out Berlitz five star rating. Three exciting new ships - Hanseatic Nature, Hanseatic Inspiration and Hanseatic Spirit - have now joined the fleet, bringing a new level of luxury to Hapag's polar operation. Hanseatic Inspiration will be of the greatest interest to English-speaking travellers, as the ship operates bilingually, whereas the other two are German-speaking only.

To make the most of your extraordinary Antarctica voyage , you need high levels of expertise from the operator. The key issues are of course safety, an efficient and speedy operation for landings and zodiac excursions, and an outstanding team of experts, naturalists, expedition leaders and guides. As regular visitors to the area, Hapag-Lloyd have rightly achieved a prestigious status and reputation amongst experts and customers alike, and will ensure a very special Antarctica experience.

French cruise line Ponant is another operator investing in new hardware, with an incredible six new expedition yachts arriving over the last couple of years. Their Antarctica programme includes voyages on sister yachts Le Boréal, Le Soléal, Le Lyrial and L'Austral and the high-tech Explorer Class with ice-strengthened hulls. Also kitted out for polar exploration is the luxurious Le Commandant Charcot, the world's first electric hybrid polar icebreaker and revolutionary in the industry.

Ponant takes guests to areas of Antarctica that other ships can't reach, including the Charcot and Peter I islands, the Weddell Sea and the ice-covered Amundsen Sea, a truly remote region that remains mostly unexplored. Ponant's new ships are equipped with the latest environmentally friendly tech, including dynamic positioning and advanced waste water treatment systems, and all of your meals, drinks and excursions are included.

7. Seabourn

Luxury line Seabourn have been slowly edging into the expedition arena over the last few years, introducing their 'Ventures by Seabourn' programme of excursions by zodiac and kayak in selected destinations. So it was no great surprise when plans for two purpose-built expedition ships were announced for Antarctica sailings.

The first, Seabourn Venture, launched in 2022, with interiors by designer Adam D Tihany and high-tech toys including a pair of six-seater submarines whilst Seabourn Pursuit has recently launched. Antarctica is a key destination for the new ships, building on the successful Antarctic programme developed on board Seabourn Quest. The Ventures by Seabourn programme allows you to dip into the more adventure-minded activities as and when you feel like it, while enjoying the high levels of all-inclusive luxury and personalised service that Seabourn is renowned for. This is a great option for those who are not quite sure yet whether expedition cruising is right for them.

Scenic Eclipse , Scenic's 'Discovery Yacht', launched in summer 2019, and offers high levels of luxury on board in Antarctica, with an exciting programme of adventures ashore. Extras include a helicopter, a submarine (at an additional charge) and kayaks, and the ship is equipped with state-of-the-art technology. Almost identical sister ship Scenic Eclipse II also recently launched, and both are some of the most luxurious vessels operating in Antarctica.

Expect all-inclusive pricing and 6-star service on your Antarctic expedition cruise - including butlers for every suite, and all suites featuring a private verandah. Lots of dining options and an outstanding spa will enhance your experience on board, and guest numbers are restricted to 200 in Antarctica to give the opportunity for frequent landings.

9. Hurtigruten Expeditions

With over 100 years of experience in operating the renowned Norwegian Coastal Voyage, taking equipment, post and people along the coast of Norway from Bergen every single day of the year, Hurtigruten is no stranger to the operation of hardy vessels in inhospitable waters.

More recently their purpose-built expedition ship Fram has begun venturing to another hemisphere during our winter to explore the Southern Seas, and two high-tech new expedition ships, Roald Amundsen and Fridtjof Nansen, joined the fleet in 2019 and 2020 respectively. The Hurtigruten vessels are some of the largest in the region, which limits landings, but they offer an excellent cost effective option.

Edwina Lonsdale is Managing Director and together with husband Matthew, owner of Mundy Adventures. Her most recent adventure was a cruise on Silver Origin and she has also sailed with Seabourn, Ponant and Aqua Expeditions. Her favourite adventure destination is the Galapagos however she's also enjoyed cruises in the Middle East, East Africa & Indian Ocean, Brahmaputra, Vietnam, Cambodia, Laos, the Mekong, Thailand, Singapore, Malaysia, the Philippines and the Arctic. When she’s not travelling she loves reading, food and wine.

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20 Oct - 10 Nov 2024 (21 Nights)

From £10,264 pp

Antarctica & Patagonia Expedition | Southbound

21 Oct - 7 Nov 2024 (17 Nights)

From £7,734 pp

35-Day From The Amazon To The Antarctic

21 Oct - 25 Nov 2024 (35 Nights)

From £15,808 pp

Falklands, South Georgia & Antarctic Peninsula

AE Expeditions

24 Oct - 13 Nov 2024 (20 Nights)

Spirit of Antarctica

27 Oct - 7 Nov 2024 (11 Nights)

Puerto Williams to Puerto Williams

Silversea Expeditions

29 Oct - 16 Nov 2024 (18 Nights)

From £22,800 pp

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Antarctica Cruises

ANTARCTICA CRUISES

Small ship expedition cruises to antarctica with 48 guests, antarctica cruises: an introduction.

Welcome to our Antartica cruises.

What makes our expeditions different? We take the smallest group sizes only – choose from our expeditions with 48 or 73 guests on our voyages and enjoy the spectacular wildlife and scenery of Antarctica in a small group.

The Antarctic peninsula is an amazing natural place to explore with its wildlife, glaciers, and stunning natural scenery unspoilt by human kind.

We offer a richer way to experience the raw nature and wildlife of Antarctica on a small ship experience free from the crowds and the rush of larger vessels.

Our Antarctica Cruises

Explorer Small Ship

with 89 Guests

November 2024

Antarctica Wildlife & Photography Expedition

Small Ship Expedition Cruise with 89 Guests

Explore the Antarctic peninsula on a 10-day small ship expedition cruise with just 89 guests in total. 

On this expedition we will do an exploration of the South Shetland Islands and Antarctic Peninsula visiting many places of interest for short hikes, wildlife watching and historical sites. As our group size is under 50 we will have access to all landing sites, some of which are off limit to larger vessels.

South Georgia Explorer

Explore South Georgia on a 15-day small ship expedition cruise with just 48 guests in total. This expedition takes place on the newly refitted Polar Pioneer , the smallest and most rugged expedition cruise ship visiting South Georgia.

On this expedition we will do an extensive exploration along the coast of South Georgia visiting many key wildlife and historical sites. As our group size is under 50 we will have access to all of South Georgia’s landing sites, some of which are off limit to larger vessels.

with 48 Guests

February 2024

See The Experience

What can i see on an antarctica cruise.

Antarctica is home a diverse array of wildlife that we encounter on our voyages.There are 18 species of penguin which is the most common bird in Antarctica. The rich seas around Antarctica are home to Orcas, whales, elephant seals and leopard seals which are often sighted on our Antarctica cruises.

A great sight is the countless icebergs you will see from the ship. The icebergs in Antartica calve off the surrounding glaciers and form these magnificent ice sculptures in the sea. If you look closely you will see penguins or seals taking a rest on an iceberg.

Glaciers are one of the most magnificent sites on a cruise in Antarctica. Witness ice calving off the glacier face and forming fresh icebergs right in front of you. You will see countless glaciers on your Antarctica expedition from the ship and during Zodiac cruises.

Antarctica is home to some of the most magical landscapes on earth. Imagine cruising past icy mountains and then going ashore by Zodiac to witness the true polar wilderness. On our voyages we spend the maximum amount of time ashore exploring.

Plan Your Antarctica Cruise

The Secret Atlas blog has a wide variety of articles to help you plan your Antarctica cruise.

Antarctica Cruise Information

Departure port.

Ushuaia, Argentina or Port Stanley, Falkland Islands

Ushuaia (USH), Port Stanley (PSY)

UTC – 3, UTC – 4

Time Of Year

October – February

Onboard Languages

English & German

‘The luxury of being alone in nature and getting close to animals is worth it.  This trip is also great for slowing down and reconnecting with the wild.  Smaller groups meant no waiting to go ashore. We anchored and the landing craft was ready to go. It is a much more adventurous feeling on a small ship and you are really immersed in nature.’

Julia, Secret Atlas Guest

Antarctica Cruises FAQ

The cruise season in Antarctica runs from November until the end of March. Outside of this period there are no cruises to Antarctica due to the harsh weather and ice conditions.

Each month offers something different in Antarctica.

November is spring in Antarctica and penguin chicks begin to hatch. As the month goes on the days get longer.

December has the longest hours and warmest temperatures for visiting the 7th continent. Wildlife is very active during this month making it one of the best months to visit.

January is our favourite month in Antarctica. We have near 24 hours a day of sunlight. There are plenty of penguin chicks and it’s a great month for seeing seals and whales. The sea ice also further breaks up making more places access.

Secret Atlas run a 12-day expedition cruise to explore Antarctica during January.

February also offers great opportunities for wildlife watching. The sea ice is usually at its lowest.

March As autumn gets underway in Antarctica the nights get darker and the temperatures get colder. It s a good month to spot whales and seals although many of the penguin chicks will be gone.

Our Antartica cruises depart from Ushuaia in Argentina.

Ushuaia has good international connections to Buenos Aires for international connections to the rest of the world. LATAM airlines serve Ushuaia on a frequent basis.

Our Antarctica cruises take just 48 guests, the smallest group size available. In Antarctica some landing sites are restricted to ships with greater gust numbers. A small ship gives us greater flexibility and allow us to explore areas larger ships cannot visit.

Unlike larger vessels with higher passenger capacities, our voyages are personal and unique in their approach. Travelling with a small group of guests means more time and flexibility exploring and less time waiting to go ashore.

Our small expedition vessels will get you closer to nature and landscapes that you came than larger ships can due to their smaller size, offering you a great deal more intimacy.

Our Small Ship Adventures give you the opportunity to experience Antarctica first hand on a real adventure without the crowds of people on larger ships. Our goal is to make you part of the adventure.

A number of companies offer expedition cruises to Antarctica.

The average number of passengers on these large ships is over 250. In our opinion that is too many people to be landing at sensitive places in Antarctica. Quite often guests are split into groups as not all guests can visit the shore at the same time due to restrictions in size at the landing sites.

Our small ship allows all guests to be ashore at the same time and have unrestricted access to all the landing sites in Antarctica.

Many companies advertise small ship cruises to Antarctic but their definition of a ‘small ship’ varies and can range from anything from 500 guests down to 50 guests. The experience between travelling with 250 guests and 48 guests is huge. Our Small Ship Cruises to Antarctica are the way they should be, intimate, low impact, and offer our guests the richest experience.

During Your Antarctica Cruise

One of the main reasons to take a cruise to Antarctica is to spend time marvelling at the awe inspiring wildlife.

The great thing about Antartica is that it is very easy to encounter wildlife close up and we visit many key wildlife sites on our expeditions.

Antartica is home to a variety of birdlife including penguins. We will aim to explore many penguin rookeries where you will see these amazing creatures close up.

On our expeditions we frequently encounter Gentoo, Adelie, Chinstrap and King Penguins. In the water and on the ice we frequently sight leopard, Crab-eater, and Weddell seals. Swimming near the ship we often encounter whales and Orcas.

A part of the adventure of an expedition cruise is to spend time exploring the wilderness which means every trip is different. Our route is decided on the day of boarding and is chosen by the expedition leader and the captain in line with the prevailing weather and ice conditions. Their aim is to ensure that you see the very best that Antarctica has to offer.

On a typical cruise, you can expect daily shore landings (usually 2 per day depending n the conditions) along with Zodiac cruising. We will visit penguin rookeries, remote beaches and visit sites of historical and natural interest such as glaciers and undertake short wilderness hikes.

The temperature in on the Antarctic peninsula during the summer months is warmer than most people imagine, and not unlike a northern European winter.

During the summer time the temperatures are usually above freezing in January with temperatures of around 1 or 2 degrees Celsius. When the sun is out and there is no wind it can feel much warmer.

The weather in Antarctica is changeable and temperatures can feel much colder when it is windy.

We will supply you with a comprehensive packing list at the time of booking that outlines the types of clothing you will need to keep you comfortable on your Antarctica cruise.

Our cruises are suitable for the vast majority of people and we aim to make them as accessible as possible. We ask that our guests have a good level of mobility as it is a requirement that you can safely step down from the vessel into the landing craft and then exit the landing craft on the beach. Due to the remote areas we visit and the distance from medical assistance, we advise that you have a reasonable level of fitness and are in good health. During the shore landings, we have multiple guides which enable us to split the group if we have some keen hikers and some other guests with more limited range.

We don’t have any age restrictions on our trips and we pride ourselves on having diverse guests from all over the world with a passion for exploring. In the past we have had young professionals eager to explore, middle-aged solo travellers, looking for their next adventure, through to retirees looking to see Antarctica in a more in-depth way. Our trips are friendly and inclusive for all our guests.

Yes, you can and every year we welcome solo travellers onboard where you will find a warm and welcoming atmosphere.

We offer accommodation options for single cabins or sharing a cabin with travellers of the same gender.

Sustainability

That’s a great question and one we want to answer honestly.

The vessels we work with don’t burn heavy fuels which are particularly detrimental to the environment and run on standard marine diesel. As a part of our commitment to the environment, we climate compensate all of our emissions by planting trees with our sustainability partner in Greenland. The cost of this is covered within the fares our guests pay and we don’t charge an additional fee for this.

Secret Atlas don’t sell flights but we are aware our guests have to fly to our destinations to board our cruises. As a part of our climate commitment, we will match the offset costs for any guests who would like to offset their flights with us. This is offered at the time of booking.

During our cruises, we follow very strict guidelines as set out by AECO (Association Of Arctic Expedition Cruise Operators) to ensure minimal impact on the wildlife and places we visit. This includes following strict rules about not disturbing wildlife in its natural habitat. We employ highly experienced expedition leaders to run our expeditions in accordance with the rules and safety code laid out by AECO. The principal rules are:

• Leave no lasting signs of your visit
• Do not pick flowers
• Do not take anything with you
• Do not disturb animals and birds
• Leave cultural remains alone Cultural remains are protected by law and a zone of 100 meters around the remains is also considered a protected zone. Watch where you are walking and standing. Walk around and not in between obj
• Take the polar bear danger seriously
• Respect local culture and local people

Our expedition leaders are highly trained in safety and following these rules and brief guests at the beginning of each departure. They ensure the safety of the guests throughout the cruise and that the AECO rules are followed.

As a member of AECO we take great efforts to ensure our trips don’t have any negative impact on the wildlife or environment. You can find out more  here. 

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Antarctica Cruises

• WHICH TRIP IS BEST FOR ME
• POPULAR TOURS

TRAVELLING TO Antarctica Cruises

An Antarctica cruise is the ultimate journey. Filled with awe-inspiring wildlife encounters and sensory experiences of indescribable beauty. To see Antarctica is to experience your place in the world from a whole new perspective.

Breathtaking, otherworldly, and life-changing are common phrases travellers use to describe an Antarctic expedition. But when it comes to Antarctica, language fails us. We simply do not possess the capacity to articulate the profound experience of setting foot on the Great Southern Continent. To truly understand, you must see it for yourself.

We have incredible deals available across a wide range of small-ship expedition cruises for both 2024/2025 and 2025/2026 Antarctic seasons, search for your ideal trip in the search filter above or contact us and we'll find it for you. 

WHICH ANTARCTICA CRUISE IS BEST FOR ME?

Once you’ve decided to go to Antarctica, the next step is to determine which trip is best suited to you.

The key considerations are:

  WHICH ITINERARY SHOULD I CHOOSE?

  how do i get there - cruise or fly,   when is the best time to go,   what type of ship is best for me why,   popular cruise itineraries, which antarctic itinerary should i choose.

As genuine Antarctica specialists, we have the largest range of Antarctica expeditions on offer, and Chimu staff have first-hand knowledge of the many ways to experience this incredible destination. Depending on your interests, availability, and budget, we can help you decide which Antarctica itinerary is right for you.

To help get you started, we have listed the 4 main itineraries that operate in Antarctica:

ANTARCTIC PENINSULA

(10 - 12 days)

Due to its proximity to South America, the Antarctic Peninsula is the best value and most popular Antarctic destination. The peninsula is renowned for its stunning scenery and abundant wildlife. View cruises

ANTARCTIC CIRCLE

(14 - 22 days) 

Cross the fabled Antarctic Circle to the land of the midnight sun. Home to desolate, beautiful landscapes, continually shifting ice, and hardy Weddell seals. View cruises

SOUTH GEORGIA

(18 - 23 days) 

One of the world’s truly great wildlife areas. South Georgia is home to over 30 million breeding birds, thousands of seals, 4 penguin species including large colonies of King penguins and macaroni penguins rarely encountered elsewhere, plus many more amazing creatures. South Georgia is a must-see for many wildlife enthusiasts. View cruises

FALKLAND ISLANDS

Often visited alongside South Georgia, the Falklands Islands offers up plenty of natural beauty, wildlife, and intriguing history. View cruises

ANTARCTICA FLY CRUISES

(5-9 days) 

For the time poor, or those not keen on a crossing of the famous Drake Passage, yet still keen to visit the last frontier of Antarctica. Flying to King George Island to begin your journey to the Antarctic Peninsula is a fantastic option. View cruises

EAST ANTARCTICA & ROSS SEA

(30+ days) 

Perhaps the ultimate Antarctica experience. Voyages to East Antarctica & Ross Sea embrace an icy world of extreme weather, wildlife, scenery and fascinating history as you visit some of the most remote places on earth. View cruises

HOW DO I GET TO ANTARCTICA?

Cruise from south america.

Have you heard the phrase ‘getting to Antarctica is half the fun?’ If so, you can bet they were referring to crossing the infamous Drake passage between South America and the South Shetland Islands. These expedition cruises departing from Ushuaia, at the southern tip of South America are the most popular way to get to Antarctica.

FLIGHT & CRUISE OPTIONS FROM SOUTH AMERICA

For those hesitant to cross the Drake, there is an option to fly from Patagonia to the South Shetland Islands. From here you can join an expedition cruise to the Antarctic Peninsula.

PRIVATE JET FROM SOUTH AFRICA

Leaving Cape Town via a Gulfstream private jet, you can fly to the inland of Antarctica landing on Wolf's Fang Runway to experience Antarctica in complete luxury.

EXPEDITION CRUISES FROM AUSTRALIA & NEW ZEALAND

Antarctica cruises departing from Australia & New Zealand offer the most exclusive and unique journey to Antarctica of all. Departing from Hobart (Australia) and Bluff (New Zealand) these expeditions are usually longer and provide exceptional opportunities to see more remote regions of the peninsula.

SCENIC FLIGHTS FROM AUSTRALIA

Departing from select Australian capital cities, a scenic flight is a fun and easy way to see Antarctica in a day! Travelling aboard a comfortable Qantas Dreamliner, equipped with larger windows than traditional aircraft, you'll fly over vast icebergs, glaciers, and iconic Antarctic landscapes. 

WHEN IS THE BEST TIME TO GO TO ANTARCTICA?

The best time to travel to Antarctica will depend on the type of experience you are after. Wildlife highlights, length of daylight hours, and the overall feel of your expedition will change dramatically throughout the cruising season (October to March). Read more

EARLY SEASON

(october - november).

Getting ahead of the pack is a great way to experience the splendour of Antarctica. As an early-season visitor, be rewarded with pristine landing sites, dramatic ice formations, animal courtship routines, and excellent photographic opportunities courtesy of the lightly setting sun. You may see packs of elephant and fur seals marking their breeding territories in the sub-Antarctic islands, and if you’re lucky, you could witness the first major iceberg calvings of the year, a truly breathtaking event.

  Beautiful frozen scenery

  Less Penguin mess

  Affordable pricing

  Ice can sometimes restrict

(DECEMBER - JANUARY)

Mid-summer is the most popular time to visit Antarctica. Temperatures are at their warmest, and longer days means there are more opportunities for landings. Expect to see sunbathing seals, adorable penguin hatchlings, and increasing numbers of whales arriving for the summer. Coupled with calmer seas and less sea ice to prevent you from reaching the shore, you can see why many people choose to travel at this time of year. As the mid-season is the busiest time, booking early is highly recommended.

  Wildlife at its prime

  20 hours of sunlight

  Peak season pricing

  More ships/tourists

LATE SEASON

(february - march).

The weather may be getting colder, but there are plenty of wildlife highlights during the late season. February is peak whale spotting season, seal numbers are up on the peninsula, and penguin rookeries are bursting at the seams on South Georgia. The shorter days provide sensational sunsets, awesome night-time sky gazing and some of the best value-for-money expeditions of all. February is also the busiest month for cruises departing from Australia and New Zealand headed for East Antarctica.

  Peak season for Whales

  Baby penguin & seal pups

  Snow melting - can be slushy on landing sites

  Penguin mess

WHAT ANTARCTIC SHIP IS BEST FOR ME?

Your choice of expedition vessel will play an essential role in your overall Antarctic experience. For many people setting off on an Antarctic expedition, this is one of the most critical questions. As genuine Antarctica specialists, we have the knowledge and experience to help you get this decision just right.

Arguably, the most crucial consideration for any Antarctic expedition. In our opinion, smaller ships are ideal. There are many restrictions placed on Antarctic expeditions, and the number of passengers on your ship will impact when, where, and how often you can make landfall. For example, vessels carrying more than 500 guests are prevented from landing at all. Being able to get off the ship and experience Antarctica up close and personal offers the most immersive and memorable experience. Read More

SMALL SHIPS (200PAX and under)

•   MORE ACCESS TO REMOTE LOCATIONS
•   LESS TIME QUEUEING MORE TIME EXPLORING
•   MORE INTIMATE
•   BETTER SELECTION OF UNIQUE SHORE TOURS
•   LESS ENTERTAINMENT ONBOARD

LARGE SHIPS (200+PAX)

•   MORE STABILITY IN ROUGH SEAS
•   MORE FEATURES
•   RESTRICTED ON-SHORE TIME
•   RESTRICTED ACCESS
•   CAN BE CROWDED

Want a deeper look - > WATCH THIS VIDEO

POPULAR ANTARCTIC SHIPS

Ocean Endeavour

With her ice-strengthened hull and advanced navigation equipment, the Ocean Endeavour is ideally suited for expedition cruising to the Polar Regions

Ocean Adventurer

This comfortable ship carries a maximum of 132 passengers, accommodated in 66 cabins all with private en-suite facilities. The ship also features a large..

Safe, sturdy and fast, the MS Expedition is amongst the most comfortable and spacious expedition ships in its class, with great stability and performance in..

Sailing under the French flag, Le Boréal is a superb mega-yacht that was built in Italy with a sophisticated French design. With its tasteful décor and discreet elegance..

VIEW All SHIPS

BLOGS ON Antarctica

Whether you are looking for advice on when to travel to Antarctica or the Arctic, which ship to travel on or which itinerary will suit you best, Chimu blogs are likely to have it covered. The range of topics is vast, with new and fascinating blogs being added regularly. There is ship information, guides about the activities you can do in the Polar regions, what to pack and what not to pack, and even blogs on various Polar explorers!

A typical day in Antarctica

What happens every day when you are down in Antarctica? This example is for a two landing day, but please be aware that every day is different..

Antarctica Travel Guide

This is how you make that first step towards your Antarctica travel dream. From the myriad of ways to travel to Antarctica to the costs involved..

10 Best Cruises to Antarctica

Antarctica may be just one continent but it offers avid explorers a nearly endless array of experiences. To narrow down the choices we have..

Why You should Travel to Antarctica… Solo!

At the southernmost tip of the earth lies one of the largest and most mysterious landmasses in the world, the Antarctic Frozen Empire.

Antarctica Photography: 11 Essential Tips

From the right gear to pack to how best to care for it and the most trusted techniques to capture the overwhelming beauty of Antarctica

FEATURED Antarctica TRIPS & DEALS

All inclusive flight package antarctica untouched.

Buenos Aires, Antarctic Peninsula, South Shetland Islands

Ship:  MS Seaventure

START: Sydney, Australia

FINISH: Sydney, Australia

PRICED FROM

AUD 16,949*

Best of Antarctica: Pristine Wilderness - SONY Departure

Antarctica, Antarctic Peninsula

Ship:  Ocean Endeavour

START: Ushuaia, Argentina

FINISH: Ushuaia, Argentina

PRICED FROM Was AUD 13,880

NOW AUD 11,104*

Antarctica CRUISES

Falklands, south georgia & antarctica.

Antarctic Peninsula, Falkland Islands, South Georgia

SHIP: Sea Spirit

PRICED FROM Was AUD 26,895

NOW AUD 22,861*

Antarctic Circle

Antarctic Peninsula, Antarctic Circle

PRICED FROM Was AUD 28,895

NOW AUD 24,561*

Journey to the Antarctic Circle

SHIP: Ocean Endeavour

PRICED FROM Was AUD 16,570

NOW AUD 14,913*

The Great Adventure

Antarctic Peninsula, South Georgia & South Orkney…

SHIP: L'Austral

START: Buenos Aires, Argentina

FINISH: Buenos Aires, Argentina

AUD 25,430*

Best of Antarctica: In Depth

Antarctic Sound, Lemaire Channel, Antarctic Peninsula and…

PRICED FROM Was AUD 17,690

NOW AUD 14,152*

Best of Antarctica

Antarctic Peninsula

PRICED FROM Was AUD 13,130

NOW AUD 10,504*

Antarctica REVIEWS

All Chimu Adventures' clients are given the opportunity to review their trip once they return home. These reviews are administered by a third party and as such are unfiltered by Chimu Adventures.

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

1 . there are so many antarctic trips – how do i pick the right one for me.

We pride ourselves on our customisable range of Antarctica tours that allow you to tailor the perfect Antarctic experience for your own goals and wishes. We also offer a wide range of tours to suit a diverse array of budgets, from 6 day express cruises, to 35 day expeditions. Speak to one of our consultants who can help you plan your perfect Antarctica cruise, which includes all of the elements you’re looking for in your trip.

2 . What do I need to pack for my Antarctica cruise?

Antarctica is an extreme environment and although Antarctic cruises depart during the spring and summer months, the weather can change dramatically, with no warning and so you need to be prepared for conditions in this harsh region. When packing, avoid weighing yourself down with too many clothes or too much gear. Select informal, practical attire for your trip that can be worn in layers, including: • Parka jacket - lightweight, wind and weather-resistant shell • Warm trousers - ski pants or sturdy trousers • Waterproof trousers - Gore-Tex or similar waterproof and "breathable" fabrics are recommended • Long thermal underwear - silk or polypropylene is highly recommended • Sweaters - wool sweaters or a polar fleece jacket • Turtlenecks • Mittens and gloves - thin polypropylene gloves underneath warm mittens • Woollen cap and a scarf or balaclava • Warm socks - sturdy, long wool socks and thin pairs of silk, polypropylene or cotton/wool socks • A sturdy, lightweight and waterproof daypack for landings or Zodiac excursions • Sunglasses with U.V. filter • Protective sunscreen for lips, hands and face • Swimsuit for hotels, aboard some ships and (maybe) for a polar plunge • Camera with spare batteries and memory cards • Extra pair of prescription glasses • Prescription medicines and other remedies such as seasickness medication • Binoculars • Zip lock plastic bags or dry sacks for carrying camera, batteries, etc. • T-shirts or other casual warm weather clothes • Clothes for gateway cities. For more information on what to pack, read our blog

3 . What sort of things can I do onboard the ship?

Whilst some of our Antarctic cruise ships boast a gym, sauna and small pools, this is rare and generally the majority have a lecture theatre, library, bar and restaurant, as well as the main deck. All ships offer a series of lectures focusing on the geology, history and wildlife of Antarctica and the Southern Ocean, to help you prepare for what lies ahead. You can interact with the crew and expedition team as well as your fellow passengers in the common areas and either brave the elements to stand on deck taking in the spectacular scenery and wildlife-watching, scanning the horizon for whales, seals and seabirds, or do so from the comfort of the lounges and observation decks.

4 . How many other people will be on my Antarctic cruise?

The number of people on board varies depending on the ship but the majority of our ships carry between 50 and 200 passengers, plus your expedition and ship crew. 

5 . Why should I travel to Antarctica with Chimu Adventures?

Chimu Adventures are the Antarctica specialists and an Associate Member of the International Association of Antarctica Tour Operators. We offer the largest range of vessels, an experienced, expert team of travel enthusiasts, and comprehensive, flexible itineraries, tailoring each cruise to your wishes and making your Antarctic Cruise unique and unforgettable.

6 . Is it safe to go to Antarctica?

All of our tours are 100% tried and tested to ensure that when you travel with us, you’re doing so in a controlled and safe environment with trained experts. We consistently monitor weather conditions and will always provide you with the best possible adventure without risk of injury to you or the vessel. While some activities may need to be rescheduled or cancelled due to weather, every effort is made to have a contingency plan should such conditions become a reality during your expeditions. We’ve been the experts in Antarctic travel for well over 10 years and use our vast experience and knowledge when picking the vessels we sell to provide you with an adventure that’s unforgettable for all the right reasons.

7 . Will I get sea sick on the Drake Passage?

It is true that at times the Drake Passage can produce turbulent seas, but our vessels are built for maximum stability and comfort to ensure that even in rough conditions, sea and motion sickness are kept to a minimum at all times. We also have a host of services and facilities available should symptoms befall you. It also might be possible to fly over the Drake Passage, so speak to one of our destination specialists for more information about this.

Antarctica Cruises, Ships & Tours

10 top antarctica cruises & tours for 2024-2025, classic antarctica air cruise, antarctica - basecamp, antarctic express: fly the drake, antarctic small ship expedition, south shetland islands and antarctic peninsula, antarctica express air cruise, antarctic explorer: discovering the 7th continent, antarctic peninsula: fly the drake - fly/fly expedition, 8 antarctica cruise deals for 2024-2025, find the perfect antarctica trip, cruise one way & fly one way, adventure expeditions, luxury cruises, our most remote antarctic expeditions.

• South Georgia

Falkland Islands

Weddell sea, tips for planning your antarctic cruise, how to choose an antarctic cruise.

• Book early! Fewer than 60,000 people step foot on Antarctica each year and many ships fill up many months or even years ahead of time. Plan your trip at least a year ahead of time, or even earlier if you can, for the best prices and selection.
• Choose a smaller ship, preferably with less than 200 passengers. By choosing a smaller cruising vessel for your Antarctica cruise, you are guaranteeing yourself a superior on board  experience with more opportunities for daily excursions to small bays and ports. Ships carrying more than 500 passengers are not allowed to land their passengers ashore in Antarctica.
• Choose your cruise based on activities, destinations, and cruise line experience. Use this guide, or contact one of our Antarctica cruise experts  and we'll help you find the itinerary and ship that is best suited to your you. 
• Be prepared for rough seas. If you are affected by motion sickness, then take tried and tested medications or treatments. Consider taking a flight cruise that can fly you either one, or both ways from Punta Arenas, Chile to King George Island.

Top-Rated Small Antarctic Cruise Ships

Magellan explorer, sylvia earle, ultramarine, greg mortimer, national geographic endurance, ocean albatros, world explorer, ocean adventurer (sea adventurer), ocean victory, ms seaventure, antarctica highlights.

• Zodiac Expeditions: Delve into the heart of Antarctica's icy realm on Zodiac expeditions. Get unbelievably close to massive icebergs and glaciers that defy imagination. Encounter unique wildlife such as seals, penguins, and majestic whales, making every moment a captivating memory.
• Antarctica Camping Trips: For an unparalleled connection with the environment, camp under the starry skies of Antarctica. Some cruises offer camping experiences complete with all the necessary equipment, ensuring your safety while you immerse yourself in the raw beauty of the continent.
• Kayak Among Marine Life: Glide through the pristine waters of Antarctica in a kayak, coming face to face with the remarkable marine life that calls this continent home. Paddle through stunning ice formations and observe seals and penguins in their natural habitat.
• Snowshoeing and Skiing: Embrace the adventure spirit by snowshoeing or skiing on the pristine slopes of Antarctica. Some cruises include these exhilarating activities in their itineraries and provide top-notch equipment for guests seeking an adrenaline rush.
• Glacier Hikes: Embark on glacier hikes through awe-inspiring white landscapes, all while spotting the incredible wildlife that inhabits this unique region. It's an opportunity to stay active and witness wildlife thriving in their natural habitat.
• Scientific Explorations: Visit science research stations and onboard science labs to delve into the cutting-edge research conducted in Antarctica. Learn about the history of exploration in Antarctica and gain insights into the current challenges facing the continent.
• Breathtaking Sceneries: Be prepared to be mesmerized by the inspiring and breathtaking sceneries of Antarctica. Marvel at the incredible species that call this pristine wilderness home every step of the way.
• Relaxation and Luxury: Amidst the adventure, take time to unwind and pamper yourself. Enjoy moments of relaxation as you tour or sail through the blue waters of Antarctica. Many cruises offer onboard services like spas, massages, fine dining, hot tubs, and more, ensuring you have the best of both worlds during your expedition.

Top 10 Things to Do and See in Antarctica: A Complete Guide

Antarctic wildlife, top places to visit in antarctica.

• Antarctic Peninsula : This is one of the most visited regions in Antarctica and is known for its stunning landscapes, research stations, and abundant wildlife, including penguins, seals, and whales. Cross the Lemaire Channel back or from notable visitor sites along the Antarctic Peninsula include Paradise Bay , Deception Island , Neko Harbor, Cuverville Island, Half Moon Island, and Petermann Island.
• East Antarctica: The vast and largely unexplored eastern portion of Antarctica contains the coldest and driest areas of the continent.
• West Antarctica: This region is characterized by its massive ice sheets and glaciers, including the West Antarctic Ice Sheet. It is an important area for scientific research on climate change.
• Ross Sea : Located in the southernmost part of the Pacific Ocean, the Ross Sea region is home to the Ross Ice Shelf, the largest ice shelf in Antarctica. It is a critical area for studying the continent's marine ecosystem, Visit Brown Bluff (Tabarin Peninsula) or sail to the remote Peter I Island and Macquarie Island as you approach New Zealand .
• Weddell Sea : Situated off the eastern coast of the Antarctic Peninsula, the Weddell Sea is known for its diverse wildlife and historic significance, including the famous Shackleton expedition.
• South Orkney Islands: These islands are a sub-Antarctic archipelago located in the Southern Ocean, not far from the Antarctic Peninsula. They are home to various bird species and marine life.
• South Shetland Islands : This archipelago is a popular stop for Antarctic cruises, serving as a gateway to the continent. It is known for its research stations and wildlife, including penguins and seals. Notable visitor sites within the South Shetland Islands include Livingston Island, Hannah Point (Livingston Island), Elephant Island , and Aitcho Islands.
• South Sandwich Islands : This group of uninhabited islands located in the South Atlantic Ocean is home to a variety of seabirds and marine mammals, including chinstrap penguins, fur seals, albatrosses, and orcas.
• Sub-Antarctic Islands: These islands are scattered throughout the Southern Ocean and are known for their unique ecosystems, including various bird species and marine life. Sail to the Falkland Islands and South Georgia Island . Explore visitor sites such as Port Stanley (capital), Saunders Island, Carcass Island, West Point Island, and Sea Lion Island.
• Scotia Arc: This chain of islands and undersea ridges connects South America with the Antarctic Peninsula. It is an important migratory route for marine animals.
• Balleny Islands: These remote sub-Antarctic islands lie in the Southern Ocean and are known for their isolation and unique geology.

Antarctica Travel Guide

Ushuaia airport & transportation, antarctica fly + cruise, best time of year to travel to antarctica, antarctica weather.

• November: This is when tourism to Antarctica begins to kick off. Days start to lengthen, and sea ice retreats, marking the Antarctic "spring" in full force. While temperatures are still chilly, it's a great time for those seeking pristine landscapes and wildlife, including penguin mating rituals and seals having pups. Skiers and snowshoers will find ideal conditions in November and early December
• December: Among the most popular months for visiting, December offers optimal weather, long days, and access to stunning scenery and wildlife. It includes the austral summer solstice, providing extended daylight and relatively warmer temperatures. Penguin hatchlings and chicks are a highlight, and it's a great time for various activities, including kayaking and camping.
• January: Another prime month for tourism, January features ideal weather conditions, long daylight hours, and extensive access to the mainland and coastline. Temperatures are at their warmest, and there's an abundance of wildlife to observe, including penguins and increasing numbers of whales.
• February: Although tourist numbers start to decline from the December/January peak, February continues to offer fine weather. Daylight remains ample, and sea ice is at its yearly minimum, allowing for deeper exploration into the Antarctic wilderness. Whale-watching is particularly rewarding during this time. Scuba divers may prefer mid-December through mid-February
• March: The tail-end of the austral summer provides less-crowded sightseeing opportunities, minimal sea ice, and the chance to experience the "Antarctic fall." While temperatures cool off, March offers lower cruise prices, clearer waters for diving, and unique wildlife experiences, such as leopard seals hunting penguin chicks.
• Don't introduce any non-native species that could become invasive species.
• Always listen to your guides and the ship's crew while on day-trips.
• Make sure to observe animals from a safe distance and never try to touch them (at least 15 feet is a good recommendation).
• Don't feed any animals.
• Stay on designated walking paths.
• Allow animals enough space to make their own navigation decisions. 
• Do not surround any animal or go between baby animals and their mothers.

What's it like on an Antarctic Cruise?

A Typical Day on an Antarctica Cruise

Expeditions to the south pole, south pole expeditions.

• The cruising season in the Arctic is from May to September, while in Antarctica it runs from November through March.
• While temperatures in Antarctica can be more extreme than in the Arctic, the cruising season tends to stay between 20-30 degree Fahrenheit, with plenty of sunny days (sometimes with 24 hours of sunlight each day). 
• A trip through the Arctic might bring you through any of the following countries: Canada, the US, Greenland, Iceland, Norway, Russia, Sweden and Finland. Longer comprehensive cruises might do the whole Northwest Passage or cruise almost all of the Arctic Circle. Cruises board either in Scandinavia, Russia, or Canada.
• Antarctica trips either start in Ushuaia, Argentina for cruises or Punta Arenas for the fly cruises over the Drake Passage . 
• Polar bears or Penguins - While penguins are so prolific in Antarctica and the Southern Ocean that the idea of not seeing hundreds on your cruise seems absurd, the polar bears of the Arctic can be much harder to spot (though some feel that they are more majestic and rewarding when you do spot them). NOTE: Polar bears live in the Arctic and penguins live in the southern hemisphere, so there is nowhere (other than perhaps a zoo) where you will see them both living in their natural habitat on the same trip. 
• Wildlife in Antarctica features more whales and many different types of seals. 
• Active travelers might prefer Antarctica for the chances to do activities like camping, kayaking, mountaineering, cross-country skiing, paddleboarding or scuba diving, which aren't included on Arctic tours for safety reasons.
• Ice vs. Land: Antarctica is aptly named the White Continent because its landmass is almost entirely permanently frozen ice and glaciers with towering rocky mountains, while the Arctic Circle goes through a summer season of lush vegetation when its icy coat melts away.

Antarctica Cruise Lines

Penguins of antarctica.

• Adelie Penguins - are common along the entire coast of the Antarctic continent and is the most widely-spread penguin species.
• Emperor Penguins - the tallest, heaviest and perhaps most famous of the penguin species.
• King Penguins - the second largest penguin, and similar in appearance to the Emperors, King Penguins live in the sub-antarctic islands and northern regions of Antarctica.
• Rockhopper Penguins  - get their name because they are found jumping from jagged rock to rock instead of waddling like most penguins. 
• Chinstrap Penguins - are easily distinguishable by their black chinstrap, which makes it look like they're wearing a bicycle helmet!
• Gentoo Penguins  - are related to the Adelie and Chinstraps, and perhaps the speediest of the penguins in the water. 
• Macaroni Penguins - with their distinctive spikey orange crests, are perhaps the world's most abundant penguin species, though they only visit Antarctica part of the year.

Antarctica Travel FAQ's

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The Antarctica Cruise Guide

This Antarctica Cruise Guide contains everything you need to know if you are looking to travel to Antarctica. From crossing the mighty Drake Passage to learning about what to expect when you finally set foot on this icy continent, this guide is full of information to help you plan your trip.

Our Experience on an Antarctica Cruise

I LOVE adventure and have been very lucky to have travelled to over 50 countries across this amazing planet. One of my favorite places to visit is Antarctica. I have explored this amazing continent extensively and it is truly one of the most awe-inspiring travel destinations on the planet. 

About Antarctica

Antarctica is a place that many travelers dream of going, but many people do not know much about it. We have read the stories about great explorers like Scott, Amundsen, and Shackleton, who all made epic journeys across this frozen continent. It is the ultimate travel destination and one that belongs on everyone’s bucket list. You may think that only the lucky few go to Antarctica, but you might be surprised to learn that over 70,000 people make the journey via Antarctica cruise ships each year.

History of Antarctica

In 1773, Captain James Cook crossed the Antarctic circle and circumnavigated Antarctica. Even though he didn’t see the landmass itself, there were plenty of rock deposits in icebergs showing that a southern continent did exist. Declaring it of “no benefit” to the world, he didn’t investigate further.  

The next visit came from Captain Bellingshausen , a Russian naval officer in 1819-1821. He first saw the actual continent in January 1820, describing it as an “icefield covered with small hillocks.”

In the 1840s, separate British, French, and American expeditions established Antarctica as a continent. British naval officer James Clark Ross took two ships within 80 miles of the coast until being stopped by the vast ice barrier now known as the Ross Ice Shelf.

Some historians believe Carsten Borchgrevink led the first confirmed landing on continental Antarctica in 1899. His team landed at Cape Adare and built huts to survive the winter on the Antarctic landmass. In 1901, Captain Robert Falcon Scott led the first expedition to try and reach the South Pole with Ernest Shackleton and Edward Wilson. They were forced to turn back at 82 degrees south, yet Ernest tried again between 1907 and 1909. In 1907 he reached within 156 km of the South Pole but had to turn back once again. In 1909, Australian Douglas Mawson was the first man to reach the South Magnetic Pole. The south magnetic pole was located on land outside the Antarctic Circle and is about 2,860 km away from the South Geographic Pole.

The first man to reach the South Geographic Pole was Roald Amundsen in December 1911. His Antarctic expedition relied on sled dogs, and along with four fellow Norwegian explorers, they beat the British team lead by Scott by over 30 days.

From here on, radio is introduced, whaling begins in the oceans around Antarctica, map making begins, and more, as the continent is increasingly explored by humankind. This culminated in the International Geophysical Year, where 12 nations established over 60 stations in Antarctica and began international cooperation in Antarctica, cementing it as “non-national.”

Famous Antarctic Explorers

Sir James Clark Ross, Great Britain

James Ross led expeditions on the HMS Erebus in 1839 and the HMS Terror in 1843. He was the first man to formally recognize Antarctica as a continent, rather than just a collection of islands. He discovered Mt Erebus, Mt Terror, the Ross Ice Shelf, the Ross Sea, Victoria Land, Seymour Island, Snow Hill Island, and James Ross Island.

Roald Amundsen, Norway

Amundsen explored the Antarctic region between 1909 and 1911. He and the British Naval Officer Robert Falcon Scott engaged in the Race to the South Pole of 1911 , with Amundsen winning out by roughly a month. Being highly competitive, Amundsen originally wanted to be the first person to reach the North Pole, but the Americans got there first – he promptly set his sights on the South Pole instead!

Sir Ernest Shackleton, Great Britain

Shackleton made several voyages to the Antarctic region, with an Australian member of his team, Edgeworth David, leading the first ascent of Mt Erebus in 1908. In his second mission, his ship was sunk by an iceberg, but Shackleton managed to keep himself and his crew alive against all the odds.

Robert Falcon Scott, Great Britain

Scott tried twice to reach the South Pole, the first time with Sir Ernest Shackleton in 1901 when they made it further than any men previously. Known primarily for the disastrous second attempt, Scott encountered several unfortunate problems with his team, though he and his team did reach the Pole in January 1912. Unfortunately, Amundsen beat them to it, and Scott passed away at Camp Evans before making it home.

People Living in Antarctica

Many often ask, “do people live in Antarctica?” With no land bridging between Antarctica and other continents for over 35 million years, there were never any settlers who inhabited the icy continent. The extreme weather in the continent’s interior and the remoteness and lack of resources make it a very inhospitable place to live. Today, Antarctica is still virtually uninhabited. It is estimated that only 1,000 people live on Antarctica year-round on a total of 66 scientific bases. Though there are no cities in Antarctica, population numbers can temporarily be as high as 4,200 people at peak times.

Many nations have built their own Antarctica research station to demonstrate some sovereignty over a little slice of Antarctica, though no nation actually owns the continent. Major countries around the world came together to agree to the Antarctic Treaty in 1959, which stated that it is “in the interests of all mankind that Antarctica shall continue forever to be used exclusively for peaceful purposes and shall not become the scene or object of international discord.”

The treaty entered into force from 1961 and currently has 54 countries as signatories. While the treaty allows for freedom of scientific research and observation and exchange of information across nations, it significantly restricts Antarctica from mining or using its natural resources. Under the treaty, the continent must only be used for peaceful purposes. 

Antarctic Landscape

The vast majority of Antarctica’s serene landscape is covered by glacier ice. It is divided into giant ice sheets, the East and West Antarctic Ice Sheets. The East Antarctic Sheet is more extensive, thicker, and older. The West Antarctic Sheet is smaller and lies between the Weddell Sea and the Ross Sea. The ice thickness in Antarctica varies depending on the type of ice-sheet. It’s thickest point is nearly 5,000 meters.

Antarctica also contains many islands alongside the large landmass. Some are permanently linked to the mainland by ice. However, others are connected only by seasonal Antarctic sea ice. The coastline is mostly fringed with ice shelves, the biggest being the Ross Ice Shelf in the Ross Sea, and the Filchner-Ronne Ice Shelf in the Weddell Sea. To put this into perspective, the Ross Ice Shelf is almost twice the size of the United Kingdom.

The Antarctic landscape features are vast and varied. Mountains are dotted across the landscape, and there are occasional dry valleys as well. These are extremely low humidity areas, surrounded by mountains that prevent the flow of ice from nearby glaciers. The Antarctica continent is a desert with the inner regions receiving less than two inches of precipitation a year of snow. That is less precipitation than the Sahara desert, and no living organisms have ever been found in the permafrost in these areas.

Antarctic Geography

Antarctica is made up of two distinct parts connected by an ice sheet. The East part of the continent averages 1.6 miles in thickness, whereas the West side is made up of many small blocks covered by the West Antarctic ice sheet and a mountain range, which helps to form the Antarctic Peninsula. The ice sheet is 4,776 meters deep at its thickest, but it averages 2,160 meters thick in much of the continent.

Antarctica is a landmass unlike any other, covered in snow and ice; it contains 90% of the world’s ice and 70% of the world’s freshwater. It is for these reasons that Antarctica gets so much attention from climate change scientists. Experts stress the importance of keeping global temperatures from going up to prevent rising sea levels from melting Antarctic ice.

The Weather

People get chills by just thinking about the Antarctic! For many people who are interested in traveling to Antarctica, weather is a main concern. However, there is a strong distinction between the weather where you would go on an Antarctica cruise versus if you were at the South Pole. It is essential to understand the difference.

The general climate of Antarctica is the coldest on Earth. The lowest air temperature recorded was -128.6 degrees Fahrenheit (-89.2 degrees Celsius) at Russia’s Vostok Station. Even lower ground temperatures have been gathered, and the landscape is also arid. There is an average of only 166mm of precipitation each year, meaning Antarctica is a desert. However, unless you are walking to the South Pole, the temperatures in many of the areas you may visit on an Antarctica sea cruise will average 24 degrees Fahrenheit during the austral summer.

Because the snow rarely melts in many parts of the continent, the snow becomes compressed to form the ice sheet’s glacier ice. Traveling weather fronts rarely make it very far into the continent because of strong cold winds originating from Antarctica’s surface peaks.

Antarctic Wildlife

There’s a good chance you’ll encounter some killer whales, humpback, or minke whales when you go on an Antarctica cruise, especially during the warmer months from November to March. Watch them feed on fish, squid, and plankton. Killer whales are likely to go after seals or birds and can be visible to tourists during a hunt!

However, seals can be dangerous, so it’s essential to know where you are walking in Antarctica. Do not stray from designated areas, and be aware not to get too close as this can make territorial seals uncomfortable. The leopard seal is particularly territorial and can attack. Keep your distance and admire it from afar!

Penguins may come up and walk next to you when you land on Antarctica; however, it is important not to touch them. They won’t hurt you! But don’t walk too close or make them feel threatened.

You might also spot albatrosses, petrels, and other kinds of seabirds on your visit. Most bird species found on Antarctica are just visitors – the conditions are very harsh for more creatures to survive!

About Sea Cruising to Antarctica

Visiting Antarctica is a dream for many travelers. This vast, magnificent land is unlike any other on earth. There are several ways to explore this beautiful continent, but an Antarctica cruise is by far the most popular option.

A majority of Antarctica cruise ships begin their journey in Ushuaia, the southernmost city in the world. Ushuaia is at the bottom tip of Argentina, and it typically takes 36 hours of sailing through the infamous Drake Passage to reach Antarctica from this small port city.

When going on an Antarctica cruise, travelers often visit the South Shetland Islands and the Antarctic Peninsula, located approximately 600 miles south of Ushuaia. Some popular sites which we will explore more in this article are the Lemaire Channel and Paradise Harbour. With striking, iceberg-filled passageways, the majesty of the landscape is undeniable. There is also Port Lockroy, a former British research station which is now a museum. On an Antarctica cruise, you can see a variety of local wildlife, including penguins, whales, and seals. This isolated terrain shelters the rich diversity of fauna, providing a charming encounter with the Antarctica animal kingdom.

Getting to Antarctica

About buenos aires.

For those wanting to reach Antarctica, flights via Buenos Aires is the most common, as it is the international hub for explorers heading south! Your next step is to take a flight to Ushuaia, which can either be a direct flight or contain a layover. The average direct flight to Malvinas Argentinas Ushuaia International Airport takes 3h 35m, covers a distance of 1477 miles, and costs an average of US$250 for the trip.

About Ushuaia

Ushuaia is the southernmost city in the world and has a population of roughly 75,000 people. The city of Ushuaia was formally founded on October 12th, 1884, by Augusto Lasserre, an Argentine naval officer, with missionaries and naval officers signing an act naming Ushuaia as the capital of Tierra del Fuego. Tierra del Fuego is an archipelago jointly controlled by Argentina and Chile. The former controls the eastern half of the main island, and the latter controls the western part, including the islands south of the Beagle Channel. It is a very isolated city and can only be reached by a ferry from the mainland, thus earning the nickname “The End of the World.”

It’s a good idea to arrive in Ushuaia two days before your Antarctica cruise. Use this opportunity to visit the sites, get all your gear in order, and get ready for your trip. Also, it’s essential to arrive early to ensure that the ship doesn’t leave without you if there are flight delays for any reason.

Ushuaia Hotels and Accommodation

Below are two popular hotels that our guests have enjoyed in the past:

• Arakur Resort & Spa
• Los Cauquenes Resort & Spa

Dining and Restaurants in Ushuaia

Ushuaia is home to some excellent Fuegan cuisine, which features a lot of local seafood (including sea bass, octopus, mussels, and king crab) and grilled lamb. Typical Argentine asados can be eaten here, filled with red meat, and accompanied by red wine. 

Below are two popular restaurants that our guests have enjoyed in the past:

Sites of Interest in Ushuaia

Ushuaia is a unique city, which features many natural wonders as well as historical treasures. This city is a great place to experience a blend of historical sights particular to its history as a penal colony, with profound and dramatic natural landscapes like glaciers and national parks. Here are just some of the many sites of interest in Ushuaia:

Tierra del Fuego National Park

Here you can experience the dramatic waterfalls, lakes, and snow-capped mountains of Ushuaia’s natural landscape. The southernmost national park on Earth is a place for scenic walks, where you can hike through to the peat bogs, or look over the landscape at the Beagle Channel viewing point or hike Cerro Guanaco. There are lagoons and rugged beach shores that you can access via the Seaside Path. The Hito XXIV trail is also popular and will take you along the coast of Lago Roga. It is possible to camp in the park, and you can also go on tours and learn more about the Yamana people who originally lived here.

Martial Glacier

Ushuaia is home to the Martial Glacier, which is a beautiful place for nature lovers to explore. This peak was named after Luis Fernando Martial, a French scientific expedition leader that arrived in the area in 1883. From a winding street, you can visit the glacier yourself! It’s an excellent area for trekking in the summer, and the street is kept free of snow for safety on the roads in the winter. A ski center is easily accessed by a chair lift and features alpine and off-piste skiing, which is excellent for more experienced skiers.

Ushuaia Prison

Built in 1896, the Ushuaia prison was in operation until 1947 and housed up to 800 convicts at its peak. It had only 380 cells, making it a crowded place. The jail served a series of important functions, with convicts providing labor to build houses and public buildings, as well as services like tailoring, shoemaking, blacksmithing, and more for the local community. You can visit and learn all about the people who were imprisoned here, look at the ship replicas housed here, and learn other information relating to the Tierra del Fuego region’s history.

Laguna Esmerelda

This vivid blue-green glacier is a unique sight to behold, and can be accessed by hiking the dedicated trail. It is a muddy route through bogs, streams, and some ancient forest, but is an otherwise easy hike.

The Ushuaia port area is filled with shops and places to stop and enjoy a local craft beer. You can get your passport stamped at the End of the World Museum nearby, and learn about the great explorers as well as the history of the penal colony here and the maritime history of the port.

Getting Ready to Travel from Ushuaia to Antarctica

Your day has finally come! You’re ready to pack up your belongings, leave your hotel, and board your ship southbound to Antarctica. This is the exciting day you’ve been waiting for!

Ships tend to leave the port of Ushuaia to Antarctica between 3 PM and 5 PM local time. Ensure you arrive approximately 3 hours before your departure time to clear the port security.

To enter the port and board your ship, you need to go through customs. Have your passport and Antarctica cruise ship ticket ready. The customs office will cross-check your paperwork with their cruise manifest – your details must match to board the Antarctica cruise ship.

Once through customs and on the dock, there is a 100-meter walk to the Antarctica cruise ships. You’ll see ships docked on your left and right! Your ship will let you board a few hours before the departure, so you can get settled into your room and become familiar with the ship itself.

Once everyone has boarded the vessel, your ship captain or expedition leader will offer a series of briefings. They will give you an overview of the expedition, introduce key areas where you can and cannot go on the ship, and introduce the staff. The expedition team will also give you a lifeboat drill, other safety instructions, and an overview of preparing for the Drake Passage. Your safety drill will include your designated area in the case of an emergency, so pay close attention!  

The ship’s staff will ask you to “Drake-Proof” your cabin aboard your Antarctica cruise ship. This means learning to pack your personal items and cabin fixtures in the cabin safely to prepare for the rough seas . Also, the staff will instruct you on how to walk on the ship safely. This means maintaining two points of contact at all times (e.g., one hand, one leg) with a secure structure (e.g., a railing or floor). Restrictions to use of the decks and other ship areas will apply during rough seas on the Drake Passage. Your staff will offer guidance for dealing with seasickness and will introduce or point out the doctor on staff who is there to help out.

About the Beagle Channel

As you leave Ushuaia, you enter into the Beagle Channel. The Beagle Channel sits within the Tierra del Fuego archipelago, near the southernmost tip of South America. It is named after the British ship, The Beagle, in which Charles Darwin famously explored the area. It separates the main archipelago island to the north from many smaller islands to the south. The eastern portion of the channel is a part of the Chile-Argentina border. The three islands at the end of the channel were disputed for some time before an agreement in 1985 meant they became part of modern-day Chile. Once passing through the Beagle Channel, you will reach Cape Horn.

About Cape Horn

Cape Horn is named after the Dutch city of Hoorn in the Netherlands. It is the southernmost headland of the Tierra del Fuego archipelago, located on the small Hornos Island. Technically, it isn’t the most southern point of South America, but it marks out the Drake Passage’s northern boundary, which is where the Atlantic and Pacific Oceans intersect! This makes the waters around Cape Horn quite hazardous, with strong winds and waves, currents, and icebergs. It’s well known as a sailor’s graveyard with the turbulent seas and strong winds, causing many problems for the early ships going on expeditions to Antarctica.

About the Drake Passage

In the Ushuaia section above, we talked through preparations for the Drake Passage, but many people wonder what the experience is like. The passage is notorious for rough seas, but the truth is that it can also be extremely calm, like a flat lake. When the waves do get rougher , they are incredibly tall, reaching 10 to 15 meters in turbulent conditions. On average, you can expect seas to be between 3 to 5 meters. If the situation is rougher, travelers are asked to stay inside the Antarctica cruise ship, away from the outside deck. Ships will limit programming or planned lectures in harsh conditions, as many may not feel well during this period. The ride lasts approximately 36 hours through the passage from Ushuaia to the South Shetland Islands. There is typically not much to worry about regarding the rough seas – modern ships are well made, with good sonar and radar systems, and are built for these conditions.  

Landings in the South Shetland Islands and Antarctica

You’ve made it through the Drake Passage! You’re about to make your first landing – a dream for so many people. It’s a very exciting time, but there are some restrictions you should know about ahead of the landing itself.

No more than 100 people are allowed on land at any one time, in either the South Shetland Islands or on the Antarctic shores themselves. This is highly controlled by the ship staff, in coordination with other ships, and is part of the rules established and governed by the International Association of Antarctica Tour Operators (IAATO) . Ships also maintain a distance so that they are not within sight of each other.

Due to these restrictions, and considering that Antarctica cruise ships are often very large, guests are transferred to land in small groups. The large vessels can only go so close to land without running aground, and therefore guests must go via a Zodiac boat. This type of boat is used by militaries worldwide, made of reinforced rubber and a rigid hull. It combines the stability and portability of inflatable boats with a rigid-hull boat (namely, comfort, agility, and speed!).

You’ll have an opportunity to go off ship twice a day. This will typically include one landing onshore per day and a Zodiac cruise amongst the incredible icebergs and wildlife. When you go to the land, the staff will guide you and give instructions for where you can walk. For your safety, these areas are marked with flags. This is not only for your protection from local wildlife (especially leopard seals, as previously mentioned) but also to prevent any disturbance to the natural habitat. Generally, the places you can walk are close to the beach. Staff will not want you to stray far away from the permitted areas, as there may be crevices in the land that are hard to spot. You could fall between these gaps in the ice, which can go down 20-30 feet. Staff inspects the area before landing so that you will have up to date information for your safety.

About the South Shetland Islands

As you leave the Drake Passage, you will notice the weather changes – if you’ve been experiencing strong, rough seas on the route to Antarctica, weather will turn and become flat and crystal clear as you emerge from the passage. You will also start to see more wildlife (like birds and whales) as you leave the Drake Passage, and you will now begin to see land, including small mountains, icebergs, and the dynamic landscapes of Antarctica – you’re very close now! The South Shetland Islands will likely be your first sighting of land.

The South Shetland Islands are a series of islands that lie 75 miles north of the Antarctica Peninsula. The Islands are not owned by any country and are free to be used by anyone, though some governments (like the UK and Chile) have tried to claim them in the past. There are several research stations on the islands. It’s highly likely that you will make a landing on one of these islands as part of your Antarctica cruise.

About the Antarctic Peninsula

Once you reach the destination of your Antarctica travel, everything is bigger and more plentiful – the mountains are vast, the wildlife is incredible. It’s a pristine, untouched landscape, and can be a very emotional experience for many who are visiting. The first sighting of Antarctica is often a dream for travelers.

Looking on your Antarctica map, the Antarctic Peninsula is the northernmost part of mainland Antarctica and protrudes 810 miles from between Cape Adams and a point on the mainland, south of Eklund Island. The peninsula consists of a series of bedrock islands beneath the covering of sheet ice and is home to many research stations. Though many nations have attempted to claim sovereignty, none are internationally recognized.

Be aware that your first landing may be at either location, which isn’t known ahead of time, as it depends on many factors. The ship’s schedule may have a plan, but the sea conditions or unpredictable Antarctica weather can cause this to change. Manage your expectations, but be aware that cruises are doing their best.

Best Time of the Year to Visit Antarctica

When people hear about Antarctica, they worry about the extreme cold temperatures they would have to endure to visit this icy continent. While the chilly climate of the southernmost continent may seem daunting, Antarctica weather varies enough during the year to create a good traveling season.

The best time of the year to go on an Antarctica cruise is from November to March. The average temperature in the northern Antarctic Peninsula during this period is approximately 24 degrees Fahrenheit. This is the summer in Antarctica, and as the ice has melted back, there is an abundance of penguins and other wildlife to see. Also, the Antarctic summer is an excellent time for whale spotting, as well!

Gear, Training, and Preparation 

You’ve booked your trip, you’re excited for your Antarctica travels, and now you want to be physically prepared and have the right gear with you to help protect you from the elements. There are several things to prepare ahead of your journey, so here’s what you need to know to feel ready.

Gear and Equipment

You will likely have most of what you need for your Antarctica visit if you ski or snowboard or enjoy other winter sports. At a high level, you will need a parka, knee-high waterproof boots, waterproof pants, and plenty of warm upper and lower layers and socks, hat, scarf, and gloves. If you get to Ushuaia and have forgotten to purchase a few items, several shops have plenty of gear and clothing options for your trip. Some Antarctica cruise ships will give you a brightly-colored parka, as they will want to see you easily on land, but not all ships offer this.

Be sure to bring plenty of sunscreen as the sun can be very strong in Antarctica, especially when it reflects off of the ice and snow. When you are on the ship relaxing, you will want to be wearing comfortable clothing so bring everyday clothes as well. Some ships will offer a laundry room; others will ask you to use a bag that you leave to the cabin steward (though this can be an extra expense).

You might also like to bring a good backpack, binoculars, a camera, a sturdy waterproof bag for your camera, sunglasses, and any seasickness medication you may need. Don’t forget some entertainment while on the ship, like a good book, as internet connectivity is limited.

Fitness and Training

Unless you are planning on skiing to the South Geographic Pole when in Antarctica, depending on the activities offered as part of your cruise, you don’t need a lot of physical training ahead of your visit. Altitude is not a factor in the area of Antarctica where you are likely to be visiting, so there typically is no need to train for high altitude hiking.

Logistics for Travel to Antarctica

Passports and visas to visit antarctica.

You booked your trip, you’ve got your plan in order. But you want to ensure that you have the proper identification and other paperwork to visit South America and make sure you can fully enjoy your adventure. It is highly likely that on your way to Antarctica, travel will take you through Buenos Aires, Argentina, en route to Ushuaia.

Depending on the country you are traveling from, you may need a visa to enter Argentina, which will need to be arranged in advance. If you require a visa, it is advised that you acquire this well in advance of your trip. We have experienced situations where travelers have waited too long to apply for their visas and were unable to participate in the journey.

It is essential to ensure you have an updated passport with an expiration date at least six months after the arrival date in Argentina. You will need to keep your passport with you in Ushuaia as the passport will be required to enter the port and will be collected when you board the cruise ship. The details must match those you have given the operator in advance, and if there are any changes, you must notify the operator as quickly as possible. The passport will be given back to you once you return to Ushuaia on the final day of your Antarctica cruise.

About the Ship

Antarctica cruise ships vary in size and facilities, but they do tend to have all the essentials for comfortable travel. You will have had an overview when boarding, including an introduction to the staff who often come from all over the world. They will be very friendly and knowledgeable and excited to engage with you.

There tends to be a small shop onboard if you need anything, but be sure to bring any specialized medications as they don’t have everything. TVs onboard have limited channels, and phones are costly and are also not guaranteed to connect. Remember that you are in Antarctica – think of it as a chance to disconnect and enjoy the present moment in this idyllic landscape.

Internet and Phone Connectivity

Most ships have Wi-Fi, but this service can be minimal. Not only is it expensive, but you may only get a connection once or twice a day for about 10 mins. It will suffice for email and Whatsapp updates, but you will not be able to stream movies or videos. It’s a time to disconnect from the net and embrace the dynamism of the natural world instead.

Activities during your Antarctica Cruise

Ship activities.

Your Antarctica cruise will offer a variety of activities for your entertainment and education on the way to Antarctica. This is likely to include multiple deck levels and places to go onboard, including bars, a gym, and a screening room for movies and documentaries. The ship will also offer lectures on climate change and other topics pertinent to the care of the great icy continent. At night, many ships offer karaoke or host live music. Meals are served either as a buffet or sit down option, and most ships can cater to vegetarian or vegan diets.

Adventure Activities Off-Ship

Once you arrive in Antarctic waters, depending on the ship you are on; there are a variety of activities you can do. This includes:

• Cruising with the Zodiac boats: Cruising with the boats offers the chance to encounter local wildlife in their natural environment and explore the pristine landscape.
• Shore excursions: Enjoy walking and hiking across the terrain. This includes snowshoe walking, though it’s essential to follow marked areas and your guide’s advice carefully.
• Paddleboarding and kayaking: experience tranquil Antarctic waters up close and personally, by kayak or paddleboard. A popular activity, this really hammers home the expansive size of Antarctica.
• Cross-country skiing: for those who feel fit and strong for the challenge, cross-country skiing is a great activity. Some experience is required.
• Scuba diving: For experienced divers, this is a unique activity that is well worth trying. You will need cold water diving experience and suitable dry suit experience. Be aware that all Antarctica cruises do not offer this.

Overnight camping is also a popular option for travelers, but it is quite risky. For this reason, it has become far less common in recent years.

Antarctica Day by Day – a 10-Day Sample Itinerary

There are hundreds of different types of cruises and itineraries when traveling to Antarctica. They differ in length, activities, locations covered, where you may visit, and many other details. Here is what you might expect from a typical ten-day visit to the Antarctic Peninsula.

You will arrive in Ushuaia at least one day before the Antarctica cruise departs. Check into the hotel. Afterward, take advantage of the free time to explore Argentine cuisine and the vibrant and friendly social scene in Ushuaia. Buy any last-minute gear or items, and prepare for the departure.

At approximately 2 PM local time, you will head to the dock to check-in, you will board your ship. In the late afternoon/early evening, you will set sail through the Beagle Channel to Antarctica. The Beagle Channel is a strait in the Tierra del Fuego Archipelago, with picturesque glaciers and rocky isles. In the channel, there is an opportunity to enjoy ample wildlife watching, with seals and whales. Just after midnight, the excitement builds as you enter the Drake Passage.

On this day of your Antarctica cruise, you wake up in the middle of the Drake Passage – the body of water between Cape Horn and the South Shetland Islands of Antarctica. Cape Horn is on the small island of Hornos,  marking the point at which the Pacific and Atlantic Oceans come together. You will have an opportunity to “Turn the Horn,” a traditional reference to sailing from 50 degrees south of one coast to 50 degrees south of the other, literally moving around Cape Horn itself to enjoy the scenery from all angles. There is typically very low educational programming from the ship as seas may be rough, and people spend the time in their cabins. Depending on how you feel, you may walk about the ship or read a book.

This is the second full day of your exploration at sea. At last, you will experience the end of the mighty Drake Passage. It is an exciting time for all Antarctic travelers as the end of the Drake Passage is approaching, and your first sight of Antarctica is near. As you head through the South Shetland Islands, all eyes will be on the horizon watching for the first iceberg as Antarctica comes to meet you. It is likely that on this day, you will depart the ship for your first adventure activity. This may be a landing on the South Shetlands or a Zodiac adventure cruise through the waters.

It is important to note that there are many potential landing spots for visitors on an Antarctica cruise, and it can be impossible to predict which sites that you will visit during your expedition. This is dependent on several factors that include and is not limited to sea conditions, other ship schedules, and weather. In this sample itinerary, we provide information on a few selected sites so you can have a window into what you might see.

A potential first destination may be Crystal Sound, a supremely impressive body of water. Take in the blueish-white ice around you; this location is nothing short of stunning. After crossing the Crystal Sound, you may journey to the Fish Islands, which are home to thousands of penguins and other wildlife.

A potential destination for your second day in Antarctica is Neko Harbor! Neko Harbor is set against steep rock cliffs and glacier fronts, the site boasts a unique topography. Visit Meditation Rock, where you can reflect on the scenery and this extraordinary adventure. Gentoo penguins mate here, leopard seals play in the water, and if you’re lucky, you might also see a Minke whale or two! Neko Harbor was discovered in the early 20th century and named for the Scottish whaling boat, the ‘Neko,’ which operated in this area between 1911 and 1924, making it a source of rich history for climate change observers.

Another glorious expedition day of your Antarctica cruise awaits. You may get the opportunity to visit Wilhelmina Bay. The site gained recognition through the Belgian Antarctic Expedition (1897- 1899) under Adrien de Gerlache. Wilhelmina Bay has jagged mountain peaks rising out of a snow-filled landscape. Be on the lookout for Humpback Whales as Wilhelmina Bay is a favorite spot for whales and whale watchers alike.

On your final day in Antarctica, you are hopefully lucky enough to see one of the most popular destinations of the journey: Deception Island. The site of an active volcano, Deception Island, will transport you to another world entirely, as you survey the ash-layered glaciers, steaming beaches, and barren volcanic slopes. The island itself is a very distinctive horseshoe shape, opening out through a narrow channel to the sea from what is known as Neptune’s Bellows. The island is a window back in time to the Antarctic whaling industry of the 19th and 20th centuries. You will see skeletons of whales and the infrastructure of buildings still preserved in Whaler’s Bay.

As you navigate further north, you will head back toward the South Shetland Islands and begin your journey back to Ushuaia through the mighty Drake Passage. Reflect upon the splendor of Antarctica.

As you continue your Antarctica cruise back through the Drake Passage, while the end of the expedition will be near. It will be your last chance to enjoy time with your new friends.

As dawn rises over the horizon, your Antarctica cruise ship will arrive back in Ushuaia and disembark.

Key Sites to Visit in Antarctica

Crystal sound.

The Crystal Sound is a channel situated between the southern part of Biscoe Islands and the coast of Graham Land. A uniquely magnificent location to see snow-covered mountains, it also plays a big part in scientific research in Antarctica as a critical site used for ice crystal research. As you navigate through the Sound on your Antarctica cruise, floating icebergs, crystal clear water, and more permeate the vista.

Fish Islands

These islands are a small group lying to the north entrance of Holtedahl Bay, off the west coast of Graham Land. They were discovered and named in 1934-1937. There are colonies of Adelie penguins and blue-eyed shags in this area, and wonderful sites of icebergs dotted across the seas around you.

Prospect Point

Prospect Point is a headland at the very west extremity of Velingrad Peninsula on Graham Coast. It sits immediately east of Fish Islands and was first roughly charted in 1934-1937. The name was given to the Point by E. P. Arrowsmith, Governor of the Falkland Islands. Sometimes, Emperor penguins can be sighted here, though they are becoming increasingly rare! Enjoy the unspoiled iceberg-spattered landscape as you approach on your Antarctica cruise.

Gullet Channel

The Gullet Channel is extremely narrow and separates Hansen and Day Islands, connecting the heads of Hanusse Bay and Laubeuf Fjord. First explored by the French under Charcot in 1909, it was only first surveyed and sketched in 1936. It was later given its descriptive name in 1948 by the members of the Falklands Islands Dependencies Survey.

Antarctic Circle

The Antarctic Circle is the most southerly circle of latitude on the map of Earth. The region south of the circle is the Antarctic, and the zone to the north is the Southern Temperate Zone. To the south, the sun is visible above the horizon for 24 hours at least once a year. The angle of the sun from Antarctica means that there is high refraction and lots of mirages – these tend to be even more spectacular than those in the Arctic, creating the illusion of a series of sunsets and sunrises while the sun remains under the horizon. A truly unique sight!

Horseshoe Island

The Horseshoe Island base was established in 1955 as part of the push to increase scientific research on Antarctica by the United Kingdom. It is situated along the west coast of Graham Land in Antarctica. Used primarily for geology and surveying, the aim was to create a ground control network for the air photography being carried out in the area at the time. It is now closed and being conserved.

Stonington Island

Also known as Marguerite Bay, Stonington Island is an excellent spot for observing the local geology and biology. The station itself on this site was closed in 1950, as the Antarctic sea ice prevented access to relieve the station in 1949. Reopened in 1960 as a center for fieldwork in south Antarctica, the site was eventually closed and is now being conserved as a site of historical importance.

Lemaire Channel

Known for being one of the most photogenic spots in Antarctica, this channel is nicknamed the ‘Kodak Gap.’ It was discovered by a German expedition in the 1870s but wasn’t fully explored until 1898. This was achieved by Belgian explorer Adrien de Gerlache, and he chose to name it after a fellow explorer, Charles Lemaire. It is called the ‘Kodak Gap’ because of its serenely beautiful views. Surrounded by steep glacial cliffs on their side, the still waters create incredible reflections. Sometimes icebergs can block the way, meaning that Antarctica cruise ships have to backtrack and sail around Booth Island, though this is more of a concern earlier in the season. Later in the season, you might even be lucky enough to spot a whale in the channel – a perfect Kodak moment!

Port Charcot

A thoroughly historical spot, Port Charcot is where Jean-Baptiste Charcot wintered his ship in 1904. It is situated at the north side of Booth Island. Charcot built a cairn which you can still climb to at this spot, or you can just stop and enjoy the local fauna – the Gentoo penguins that nest in these more sheltered areas are a wonderful sight.

Pleneau Bay

Just south of Lemaire Channel, Pleneau Bay separates Hovgaard Island from the Antarctic Peninsula. Here you can see a variety of very entertaining seal life Crabeater, Leopard, and Weddell seals from your Antarctica cruise ship.

Vernadsky Research Base

This is a Ukrainian Antarctic Station, situated at Marina Point on Galindez Island. Within the Argentine Islands, it is still named for the Soviet and Ukrainian mineralogist Vladimir Vernadsky. This site was originally owned by the British and sold to the Ukrainians in 1996 for a symbolic one pound!

Neko Harbor

Neko Harbor is a small bay on the northern coast of Andvord Bay. This bay’s coast is made mostly of glacier fronts and steep rock cliffs, making it tricky to land on the coast in this vicinity. It is possible only at a few select stops, with Neko Harbor being one! Substantial swathes of granite are situated on the coastline, a compelling reason to stop for geologists and tourists alike.

Danco Island

Located in the middle of the beautiful Errera Channel, Danco Island is home to a large population of Gentoo penguins. Some of the best Zodiac cruising can be done around the island, and you can climb to the top of the island for some of the most spectacular views in Antarctica.

Wilhelmina Bay

Named for the Queen of the Netherlands, Wilhelmina Bay is known for its population of humpback whales and plays host to a splendor of Antarctic vistas. It is situated along the west coast of Graham Land in Antarctica, between the Reclus Peninsula and Cape Anna.

Deception Island

Deception Island is in the South Shetland Islands archipelago and has one of the safest harbors in Antarctica. It is now an excellent spot for Antarctica cruise tourists going to Antarctica with tremendous natural beauty as it is formed of the caldera of an active volcano. It is also an important area for scientific research on Antarctica due to its legacy as a major whaling station.

We hope you found our Antarctica Cruise Guide to be informative and helpful. 

Happy Adventuring!

Jeff Bonaldi Founder & CEO The Explorer’s Passage

About Jeff Bonaldi

Jeff Bonaldi is the Founder and CEO of The Explorer’s Passage, a premier adventure travel company. His mission is to provide travelers with the opportunity to transform their lives and the planet through the power of adventure.

Learn more about Jeff’s story and his company HERE .

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Antarctica & Falklands Expedition

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Cruise Overview

Antarctica cruise - antarctica & falklands expedition (northbound).

Join us on a late austral summer expedition to experience unmatched landscapes, unique wildlife, and amazing sunsets while exploring the great white continent, the Falkland Islands, and Puerto Madryn.

Get close to icebergs and spot wildlife like whales and penguins. You will have chances to go hiking, kayaking, ice-cruising, and even camping on the Antarctic snow.

Land on scenic beaches and follow grassland trails to see the wildlife of the Falkland Islands up close. You will also visit the charming capital, Stanley

The frozen continent 

Set sail through icy waters as we journey from Ushuaia to Antarctica. When we arrive in the thrilling and otherworldly Seventh Continent, we’ll enter expedition mode. Monitoring the conditions to give us the best adventure possible, and we’ll attempt kayaking, ice-cruising, wildlife watching, hiking and more. 

Lush green landscapes of the Falklands 

Explore the rolling green hills and white sands of the picturesque Falklands archipelago. You’ll enjoy a visit to the charming capital Stanley and see the penguin, albatross, and seal colonies that populate the shores. Continuing north to Puerto Madryn, warm sandy beaches and a tranquil nature reserve await you.

Know before you go

Practical information you need to know

• Expedition Health & Safety
• Travel Entry Requirements
• What to pack?
• Frequently Asked Questions About Life on Board

Health and Safety

Health & Safety Onboard

The safety of our guests, our employees, and the communities we visit is our top priority.  This is why we have partnered with leading experts in health and safety to design and implement protocols/procedures across our expedition fleet.

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We'll help you plan where to go, when to visit and how long to stay

If you thought romance was dead, you’ve never been to Buenos Aires. The sophisticated yet down-to-earth Argentine capital thrives on its strong traditions: proud soccer fans, a cultured theater scene, and the seductive tango. Wander past French and Italian architecture in Recoleta, finding respite from the summer sun in the sprawling plazas and parks of Palermo, where fleets of parrots and songbirds roost. At night, try a choice cut of steak in San Telmo before heading to a local bar, club, or confitería along Avenida Corrientes for a late night fueled by tango dancing.

Consider arriving a few days early to participate in our Pre-Program and explore the wild land of Patagonia.

Rendez-vous with the ship

Your plane leaves Buenos Aires for the southern port city of Ushuaia in the early morning. From the plane, you might catch views of Lago Fagnano and the snow-capped Monte Darwin in Alberto de Agostini National Park to the west.

Hybrid electric–powered expedition ship MS Fridtjof Nansen will be waiting for you to start your adventure on the shores of the Beagle Channel. We are sure you will come to know the ship well, and see it as your home away from home with all of its premium comforts. After boarding, you’ll attend a meeting with the Expedition Team, who will take you through key health and safety principles. Then enjoy the welcome dinner, your first of many delicious meals on board. Finish the day with a stroll on deck, gazing at the stars up above.

Crossing continents

The two-day voyage across the Drake Passage will fly by. When you’re not on deck looking for albatross, petrels, humpback, and fin whales, our expert Expedition Team will prepare you for the adventures ahead.

The Expedition Team’s lectures will teach you about the history, environments, and challenges of the places we plan to visit. You will learn what it takes to be an Antarctic ambassador and how to safely and sustainably explore the continent’s frozen habitats while observing IAATO regulations. Our precautions include, among many others, special rubber boots for landings. The Expedition Team will also introduce you to the Citizen Science programs that will help you better understand these intricate ecosystems while contributing to current scientific research. Meanwhile, have a chat with our onboard photographer, who will sharing some useful tips on how to improve the quality of your photos.

Included activities such as art classes are also a great way to spend your down time. Or relax in the sauna. Work out in the indoor gym or strap on your running shoes to test the outdoor running track, which is just under one-tenth of a mile. Then enjoy a massage or a facial in the Wellness Area, or grab a healthy snack in one of our three onboard restaurants.

A world of ice and wildlife

Welcome to Antarctica. This vast continent is covered almost entirely by ice and snow. Enormous ice shelves tower over our ship, flanked by building-sized icebergs. Glaciers cascade down the mountains, crumbling toward the shoreline where they calve into the water. Austral summer is coming to an end when we arrive, and you can expect to see these landscapes beautifully illuminated by breathtaking sunsets. This is also the best time of year to see penguins in their final stage of molting and to spot different whale species as they gorge themselves on krill.

Over five days, we plan to visit several possible sites in the South Shetlands and on the Antarctic Peninsula, depending on when and where conditions are the best. We don’t just waive and sail by. The Expedition Team has big plans for you. They will guide ice-cruises and on-shore landings, bringing you to historic and scenic sites and to penguin colonies (always at a respectful distance). You may even have the opportunity to go kayaking among the icebergs, an optional activity. The Expedition Team will also continue their lecture program and, should you choose to participate, you will find plenty of wildlife to catalog as part of a Citizen Science project.

The itinerary for an expedition cruise is not set in stone, nor should it be. This allows us to be flexible and adapt to our best options throughout the voyage. After sailing these waters for years, we know all the possible landing sites, and maximize the experience by knowing when and where to go.

Join the Expedition Team in their ongoing lecture program, which covers topics ranging from the history of great explorers to marine biology, wildlife, oceanography, and climate change. You might also have the opportunity to examine seawater samples taken in Antarctica, allowing you to study its wildlife at the cellular level. Watch for wildlife from the deck, relax in the Explorer Lounge & Bar, or just watch the scenery glide by from an outdoor hot tub or the heated infinity pool. As we approach the Falkland Islands, the ship is usually followed but a number of different bird species, such as gulls, fulmars, petrels, and albatross.

Pubs and penguins

The barren, white wilderness of Antarctica will seem a world away when we reach the lush green grass, white sands, and farms of the Falkland Islands. Similar to Antarctica, our itinerary will be flexible during our three days here exploring the islands. This allows the captain and Expedition Team to pick the best spots for each day, based on the conditions at the time.

This is a paradise for birds such as ducks, geese, albatross, caracaras, and wrens, not to mention the four different species of penguins found here: the king, rockhopper, Magellanic, and gentoo. The gentoo penguins typically hang out in large colonies around the islands, which you might be able to spot from the ship. If conditions allow, we might even visit a penguin colony during a landing.

Stanley, the archipelago’s capital, lies on East Falkland Island and is easy for the ship to access. Small enough to be explored on foot, it is complete with icon English red buses, inviting restaurants, and pubs full of friendly locals.

Enjoy a day at sea.

As we set out for another day at sea, the Expedition Team will host new lectures and presentations. You can spend some time going through your pictures from Antarctica and the Falklands, or swap stories with your fellow travelers. And if you haven’t already, gazing at the scenery and watching for wildlife from the sauna or one of the hot tubs isn’t a bad way to spend some time! There are so many ways to enjoy a day at sea…

World Heritage wildlife haven

Visit a UNESCO wildlife haven  

Puerto Madryn boasts warm temperatures and beautiful beaches. It’s also the gateway to the dramatic Valdes Peninsula, and while we’re here, you can explore the stunning nature reserve and UNESCO World Heritage Site.  

You might get the chance to see marine mammals. There are also no less than 180 species of birds living on the peninsula, so don’t forget to bring your binoculars. Stroll through the tranquil natural beauty of the reserve, enjoy a delicious bite to eat and browse the local arts and crafts shops.

Final days at sea

Your adventurous expedition cruise is coming to an end after a fascinating tour that included Antarctica, the Falkland Islands, and Puerto Madryn. The temperature will get warmer as we work our way north, so head out to the deck and soak up some sun by the infinity pool or at the outdoor gym.

Spend a little time chatting with members of the Expedition Team. They are always ready to delight you with their wealth of knowledge, insights, and interesting stories. Enjoy a farewell dinner on the last evening. After, watch the stars mirrored in the water beneath the ship one last time before heading to bed.

Back to the beginning

Sadly, all good things must come to an end, and your expedition cruise is no exception. Given the intensity and number of experiences you’ve had, it may seem like months since you left Buenos Aires, even though it has only been 19 days since you departed. Use this second opportunity to discover this exotic Latin city that pulsates to the rhythm of the tango. If you can stay a few extra days, venture on a Post-Program to the famous Iguazú Falls, one of the largest and most impressive waterfalls in the world.

Whether you carry on with your adventure or head home, we bid you a fond farewell and wish you many more adventures in the years to come. Who knows? Maybe we’ll see you on an expedition to another destination we explore, or perhaps Antarctica will tempt you back again!…

What's included

Landing activities

• Escorted landings with small boats (RIBs) while in Antarctica
• Loan of boots, trekking poles, and all equipment needed for the activities
• Complimentary wind- and water-resistant expedition jacket
• Expedition photographer will help configure your camera settings before landings

What's not included

International flights

Additional overnight(s) if required due to international flight timings 

Travel protection

Baggage handling

Optional shore excursions with our local partners

Optional small-group activities with our Expedition Team

Optional treatments in the onboard wellness and spa area

Special offers

Expedition exclusive cost savings and rare opportunities.

* Certain offers may not be combinable, up to two savings opportunities except where noted otherwise

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Included Programs

It's a mixture of adventure activities for individuals of all ages

Landing Sites in Antarctica

An endless white wilderness, Antarctica is nature at its most sublime. Read more about some of the possible landing sites you could explore on a sailing to Antarctica with Hurtigruten.

During our expeditions to Antarctica , you will learn of the great explorers who paved the way into these southern oceans, gazing out across landscapes that have remained as awe-inspiring and unchanged as the day that man first set eyes upon them.

Hurtigruten's expedition ships take you as close as possible to Antarctic wildlife and untouched wilderness. Each of these vessels offer a fascinating and varied schedule of  landings, all designed to create unforgettable memories.  MS Fram hosts only 200 guests, our new hybrid electric-powered ships, MS Roald Amundsen and MS Fridtjof Nansen , each carry 500 guests. This relatively small passenger size allows Hurtigruten expedition ships to make landings in some of the most spectacular regions of Antarctica and the Antarctic peninsula, following IAATO regulations.

How Does Hurtigruten Land in Antarctica?

Completing successful landings requires experience—at Hurtigruten, we have 125 years of it, and take pride in offering seamless landings to all of our guests. From our tender pit—a small pier folded out on the side of the ship—you will board small rubber boats that hold up to 20 people, that take you ashore. Before you land, we make sure to follow a few simple principles so every landing runs smoothly:

Guests are divided into boat groups of approximately 40 guests . To make it easier for guests to remember their group, we name them after animals in Antarctica, like albatross, krill, or penguin species.

Groups are called by name over the ship's speakers to avoid lines . All guests receive a patch with the animal of their group for their Explorer jacket before the very first landing.

Groups are put together by the Expedition Coordinator by language. Friends and family also stay together.

All guests can eat whenever they want, either before or after their outdoor activity. We put expeditions first, and fit your meals around landings , which is what our guests really love.

Once ashore, you will be greeted by an Expedition Team Member at the landing site, offering a helping hand to ease your disembarkation from the explorer boat. Information about the landing site is provided, with tips on where to go and where to see animals. All guests are able to explore the area on their own, with team members nearby to answer any questions or provide information. Special hikes and other excursions are always guided by experienced lecturers and team members.

Weather, wind, ice, and local conditions will determine the exact nature of your program and schedule. Safety is paramount and the ship’s captain will decide the final sailing itinerary during the voyage, making each expedition unique.

Below, you will find a selection of some of the possible landing sites in Antarctica:

Deception Island, South Shetland Islands

One of the highlights of the South Shetlands, Deception Island is a distinctive ring-shaped volcanic caldera, a portion of which has collapsed and created a navigable opening into the flooded interior. The natural harbor within includes Whalers Bay, home to an abandoned whaling station known as Hektor, as well as a derelict British base.

Half Moon Island, South Shetland Islands

Staggeringly photogenic and blessed with some of the most spectacular Antarctic scenery imaginable, Half Moon Island is a glittering gem amongst these island treasures. Its serrated and creviced cliffs are home to a large colony of chinstrap penguins, as well as Antarctic terns, kelp gulls, snowy sheathbills, Wilson’s storm petrels, and several species of seals who are regular visitors to the island.

Yankee Harbor, South Shetland Islands

Early sealers in the area used Yankee Harbor on Greenwich Island as a frequent base of operations, its remarkable setting providing a natural safe haven for the sailors. Remnants of those early days can still be seen littering the shoreline, but the big draw for visitors here is the large colony of gentoo penguins, whose numbers are estimated to be around 4,000 breeding pairs.

Cuverville Island

Situated in the scenic Errera Channel, Cuverville Island boasts the largest known colony of gentoo penguins. The narrow Errera Channel offers a spectacular passage to and from Cuverville as icebergs become trapped and grounded in the nearby shallows. Watching from the observation decks, as our navigators weave the ship carefully between the icebergs, is as exciting as being surrounded by the throngs of nesting penguins onshore.

Neko Harbor

Neko Harbor, home to another gentoo penguin colony, lies nestled in Andvord Bay, surrounded by the mountains and high glacier walls of the peninsula. Named after a factory whaling ship from the early 1900s, Neko is one of the rare places in this area where you may land on the Antarctic mainland.

Paradise Bay

The harbor is paradise not only in name, but in splendor and scenery, as well. Protected from the winds of the nearby Gerlache Strait, Paradise Harbor offers another rare opportunity for a mainland landing and some of the finest vistas the Peninsula has to offer. Here, you can find the Argentine base Almirante Brown and the Chilean base Gonzalez Videla, as well as colonies of neighboring penguins.

Lemaire Channel

This nearly 7-mile long and 1-mile wide channel is one of the most beautiful passages in Antarctica. It bestows upon the traveler a glimpse into what fascinates us most about this incredibly contrasting environment; it is sublime yet imposing, delicate yet daunting, alluring yet inhospitable.

Petermann Island

Its location in the picturesque Penola Strait makes Petermann Island a great spot for iceberg- and whale-spotting, and offers spectacular views across the channel to the Antarctic Peninsula.

Port Lockroy

The British base of Port Lockroy on Goudier Island was built in 1941 and abandoned in 1962. It lay empty until 1996 when it was refurbished as a museum by the Antarctic Heritage Trust. It has since become one of the most popular sites in Antarctica and offers a unique peek into life on an Antarctic base in the 1950s.

Wilhelmina Bay

The mountains and high glaciers around Wilhelmina Bay ensure plenty of dramatic scenery, from tiny floating bergy bits to large icebergs. The bay is a prime feeding ground for whales and seals, and has been nicknamed "Whale-mina Bay," due to the large number of mammals frequently seen.

Antarctic Sound

The huge ice shelves of the Antarctic continent give birth to mile-long tabular icebergs. The strong currents of the Weddell Sea conspire to bring these massive flat-topped bergs north into the Antarctic Sound, at the northeastern end of the Antarctic Peninsula.

Brown Bluff

Brown Bluff lies on the coast of the Antarctic Sound at the tip of the Antarctic Peninsula. As the name suggests, the landscape is dominated by an ominous, nearly half-mile high cliff. The towering, rust-colored bluff is volcanic in origin and the beach is peppered with lava “bombs.” Adélie penguins, gentoo penguins, kelp gulls, and cape petrels can be found breeding here, and Weddell seals are also regular visitors.

Onboard Science Program

Our Science Program has one goal: to increase your curiosity, knowledge and interest of the areas you are sailing to.

Our expedition ships serve as the perfect platform for scientific research; with access to remote regions of the world and onboard experts, we can provide invaluable data to the scientific community—with help from our guests!

We invite our guests to participate in science activities, developing a greater understanding of the region in which they travel, becoming true ambassadors, and returning home to champion the protection of our planet's most fragile ecosystems.

The core of the Citizen Science programs

Delivery of our own lecture program.

Interacting with guests in our Science Centers to reinforce the lecture program with practical hands-on guest experiences.

Citizen science program involving guests in programs for third-party organizations.

Carrying scientific equipment for sample collection on behalf of research institutes.

Hosting scientific personnel on board to conduct collaborative science programs.

Examples of Scientific Research Onboard

Seabird Distribution with the Antarctic Site Inventory  — Surveys throughout the Antarctic Peninsula help scientists understand how seabirds are using different habitats and provide valuable information about their life cycles.

Cloud Observations with the Globe Program  — By observing and recording cloud cover timed to NASA satellite fly-overs, guests can help scientists understand how surface and air temperature are affected by cloud cover, and how clouds will respond to a changing climate.

Happywhale  — We assist in tracking individual whales throughout our world’s oceans by harnessing the power of whale watching enthusiasts - our guests - expanding our scientific knowledge of their behavior and distribution. 

Sea Leopard Project  — A non-profit study aimed at a better understanding of the behavior, ecology, and population dynamics of leopard seals on the Antarctic Peninsula to promote their conservation and safe human-seal interactions.

Fjord Phyto  — Study phytoplankton to better understand how they respond to water temperature changes in the polar regions, providing a key to help mitigate future environmental impacts. 

Science Center

Join the Expedition Team here for a range of lectures, photography workshops, and Citizen Science Projects. The area also features scientific and educational equipment, such as microscopes and interactive maps.

Lecture Hall

In-depth talks on history, climate change, sustainability, wildlife, Earth science, culture, and other topics specific to the destination you are visiting are held here. Learning more about each subject is certain to enhance your expedition experience.

Webinar: Science Program

Our Science Program has one goal: To increase your curiosity, knowledge and interest of the areas to which you are sailing. 

In this webinar you can learn more about:

What the Science Program is about 

Learning from the experts on board

Facilities, equipment and activities

Citizen Science research projects- and how you can contribute

Speaker: Verena Meraldi

Excursions & Activities

Learn more about what you can experience when going with us

Stanley - Community Walk

Enjoy a leisurely and informative stroll through the charming town of Stanley and learn more about its intriguing history.

Puerto Madryn Walking Discovery

Guided town walk of Puerto Madryn to discover the Welsh history of the city.

Port Stanley Highlights

Discover the highlights of Stanley, the Falkland Islands’ charming capital, on this two-hour guided coach tour.

Pre-post programs

The Highlights of Buenos Aires (Pre)

Join our guided bus tour and discover the highlights of Buenos Aires, Argentina’s vibrant capital.

The Iguazú Experience (Post)

Extend your adventure and see the spectacular Iguazú Falls from both the Argentinian and Brazilian sides.

Patagonia’s Wild Landscapes and Gaucho Life (Pre)

Experience gaucho life and wild Patagonia on an exhilarating four-day tour before your expedition begins.

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Expedition cruises: The ultimate guide to cruising to remote, hard-to-reach places

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One of the fastest-growing segments of cruising in recent years has been “expedition cruising,” a type of cruising that involves traveling to remote, hard-to-reach places such as Antarctica on small, hardy vessels.

This is a type of cruising so different from what the big mass-market lines offer that it might as well be considered an entirely different form of travel.

With traditional cruising, the experience often revolves heavily around shipboard activities, dining, drinking and entertainment. Yes, a traditional cruise is partly about getting you to (mostly mainstream) destinations for brief visits. But at its core, it’s a resort experience.

For more cruise news, guides and tips, sign up for TPG’s cruise newsletter .

An expedition cruise, by contrast, isn’t designed to be a resort experience. It’s a cruise that is all about getting you to an off-the-beaten-path place that, in many cases, has little or no land-based infrastructure and can be reached no other way but by ship. You are “cruising” in the sense that you are traveling by ship. But the trip isn’t about the ship. It’s about where the ship can get you.

As I’ve been lucky enough to experience many times over nearly three decades of writing about cruising, expedition cruises can get you to some of the least visited and most wondrous places in the world — including parts of the Arctic and Antarctica that as recently as a century ago had never been seen by humans.

Here is a guide to everything you need to know about expedition cruises and cruising.

What is an expedition cruise?

Expedition cruises are ship-based trips designed to get you to remote and hard-to-reach places that most people never get to see.

It is travel by ship to places so far off the beaten path, such as Antarctica, that the journey itself is a bit of an adventure. Adding to the adventure is that, in some cases, you don’t know what you’re going to do from day to day once you reach your destination. Your expedition leader will make the call depending on the movement of wildlife, changing ice conditions (if you’re in a polar region) and the waves and the weather around possible landing sites.

Should whales pop up off your bow on an expedition cruise to Antarctica, for instance, your expedition leader might decide to scrap morning plans for a landing near a penguin colony in favor of whale watching. Then you’ll visit penguins in the afternoon. Or not.

Maybe changing ice conditions will make it possible to do a landing on floating ice for a hike. Eventually, you’ll probably make multiple landings at penguin colonies, maybe hike across floating ice and hopefully see whales and other wildlife. But how it all happens will be at the whims of nature.

In that sense, being on an expedition cruise is a bit like being part of a team of explorers on an “expedition” — hence the name.

As vacations go, expedition cruises have more in common with safari vacations in Africa or trekking trips in the Peruvian Andes than traditional cruises.

On an expedition cruise, the focus is on remote wilderness areas and the wildlife that inhabits them. This could be Antarctica’s rocky, ice-lined shoreline, with its massive penguin colonies, or the uninhabited islands of the Galapagos, with their giant tortoises and Darwin’s finches.

What is an expedition cruise ship like?

The typical expedition cruise vessel is custom-built for these remote and rugged areas. Expedition ships typically are small and agile, so they can tuck into remote bays and waterways that big ships can’t reach.

And they’re inordinately tough. Expedition ships are typically built with strengthened hulls to allow them to bump through ice in polar regions and with unusually large fuel tanks and food storage areas to allow them to operate long periods in remote areas without re-provisioning (in some cases, as long as 40 days).

In addition, expedition cruise ships travel with their own landing craft — typically small rubber Zodiac boats —  to get passengers ashore in remote areas. Expedition ships also often carry other adventure gear for exploring in remote areas, including kayaks, paddleboards, snowshoes, snorkeling equipment, wetsuits and sometimes diving equipment.

A handful of expedition cruise ships even travel with submarines for underwater exploration and helicopters.

Expedition ships also will have “mud rooms” where you will find cubbies to store your outdoor clothing and gear. Many expedition cruise ships will have waterproof rubber boots for you to borrow — either for free or for an extra charge — that you will need for “wet landings” on beaches by Zodiac boats. They’ll be stored in the mud room, as well.

Instead of a cruise director and the other entertainment staff found on traditional cruise ships, you’ll typically be accompanied on expedition cruises by an “expedition team.” The group is made up of expedition leaders with deep knowledge of the destination along with scientific experts such as biologists, geologists and ornithologists, and often a historian, who will lead landings and lecture on board.

Many expedition ships also sail with a photography expert. One well-known expedition cruise company, Lindblad Expeditions, staffs many of its ships with National Geographic photographers who will teach you how to use your own cameras to capture the scenery and wildlife you’re experiencing.

In short, expedition cruises are designed for exploring and learning. Unlike most traditional cruises, an expedition cruise is not meant to be a resort experience, though an increasing number of expedition ships are being outfitted with more upscale amenities than in the past.

These luxury touches include a greater variety of dining venues, including high-end restaurants, as well as elegant bars and onboard spas. However, these amenities will play second fiddle to the off-the-ship adventures at the core of the experience.

How small are expedition cruise ships?

Historically, expedition ships have carried no more than 200 passengers — a manageable number for an exploration-focused vessel operating in a remote location such as Antarctica. But a growing number of expedition ships carry more. Viking designed its new expedition ships to carry 378 passengers. Some new Hurtigruten expedition vessels are designed for around 500 people.

Even these bigger vessels are far smaller than traditional, resortlike cruise ships, which often can carry 3,000 passengers or more (with some capable of carrying nearly 7,000 passengers).

Note that by international agreement, some remote places that expedition ships visit, including Antarctica and parts of the Arctic, have limits on how many passengers can land from an expedition cruise vessel at any given time — an agreement designed to protect wildlife and historical structures from the impacts of large group visits.

In some places, such as Antarctica, the limit is broadly set at 100 people, with some sensitive landing spots having even tighter restrictions. As a result, expedition ships that carry more than 100 people only can land a portion of their passengers in a destination such as Antarctica at once.

If you’re on such a vessel, you’ll have to wait your turn to go ashore and might miss out if changing weather forces the ship to reposition. This is one reason travelers who want the most in-depth expedition cruise experience should choose a small ship with relatively few passengers.

I prefer expedition ships that carry in the vicinity of 100 people for this reason. I also look for vessels that are built for toughness, as they can access more remote and hard-to-reach places than less-tough-built vessels.

How tough are expedition ships?

When sailing in polar regions, you’ll want to look at a ship’s polar-class rating to gauge its toughness. There are seven polar classes, from PC1 (which stands for polar class 1) to PC7 (polar class 7). PC1 is the highest polar-class rating, meaning the ship can go anywhere in polar regions year-round. At this level, the ship is a true icebreaker that can crunch through all sorts of floating ice (and, as you’ll learn on an expedition cruise to a polar region, there are many types of floating ice).

There currently are no passenger vessels with a PC1 rating, though a new Ponant icebreaker called Le Commandant Charcot has an almost-as-high PC2 rating. With such a rating, the 245-passenger ship is cleared to crunch through ice all the way to the North Pole, which it sometimes does .

Most expedition cruise ships are rated PC5 or PC6, which means they can operate in medium first-year ice (ice that is only a year old and not outrageously thick) with some older ice inclusions. But they’re not designed to go to a place like the North Pole.

A ship rated PC7 is only designed to sail through thin first-year ice, and ships without polar-class ratings should steer clear of icy areas. This is one reason you don’t see a lot of big, mass-market cruise ships heading down to Antarctica or up to the Arctic — at least not in particularly icy areas. These ships generally don’t have polar-class ratings.

Where can I go on an expedition cruise?

You’ll find expedition cruises to remote places all over the world. But two destinations account for a disproportionately large portion of all expedition cruises: Antarctica and the Arctic.

This is not by coincidence. Antarctica and large portions of the Arctic are tough to reach any other way than by expedition ship. They are the last two places in the world with large uninhabited areas without infrastructure for tourism.

Many expedition cruise ships will spend nearly all their time in either Antarctica or the Arctic, oscillating between the two destinations based on the changing seasons. They will explore the Arctic from June to September, when the weather is warmest in the region, before repositioning to Antarctica for the months of November to March, when the weather there is warmest.

Related: The best cruise destinations for every type of traveler

That leaves just a few months when the ships move between the Arctic and Antarctica. Sometimes, they’ll sail empty between the two regions. Other times, they’ll offer a handful of one-off voyages while in transit.

Other destinations known for expedition cruising include the Galapagos, the Amazon River, the coasts of Costa Rica and Panama, Mexico’s Sea of Cortez and Alaska.

Take a look at some of the key expedition cruise destinations:

In many ways, Antarctica is the ultimate expedition cruise destination. It’s a place that is almost impossible to reach other than by expedition cruise ship, and getting to it by expedition ship is a true adventure that merits being called an expedition.

It’s also one of the most spectacularly scenic places you will ever see, with wildlife found nowhere else. Getting to experience Antarctica on an expedition cruise — something I’ve done several times and hope to do again — is a true trip of a lifetime.

Antarctica trips typically start in Ushuaia, Argentina, or Punta Arenas, Chile — the southernmost settlements in South America. From there, your ship will make a two-day crossing of the Drake Passage — the notoriously rough waterway between South America and Antarctica — before spending five or six days exploring the icy coast of the continent. A return trip across the Drake comes at the end.

Some longer Antarctica itineraries add in visits to South Georgia Island and the Falkland Islands on the way to or from Antarctica.

Alternatively, a handful of tour companies operate so-called fly-cruise trips to Antarctica that use hardy airplanes to fly tourists directly to the continent from Punta Arenas — no sailing across the Drake required. On such trips, travelers still explore the coast of Antarctica by cruise vessel. But they don’t board the vessel that will take them exploring until after they land on the continent.

As I’ve written about before, there are pros and cons of both types of Antarctica trips .

Related: Skip the Drake: What it’s like flying to Antarctica on a chartered plane

A few cruise vessels sail to Antarctica from Australia and New Zealand, though this is less common.

Once in Antarctica, you’ll land by Zodiac boats to visit penguin colonies and hike through the snow to the remnants of early explorer huts, sail through ice-filled fjords, and (if you’re lucky) watch whales during Zodiac boat outings. All around you will be soaring mountains, glaciers and floating icebergs.

TPG has a broad array of guides to cruising to Antarctica, all written by in-house writers who have firsthand experience traveling to Antarctica, including:

• How to get to Antarctica: The pros and cons of flying vs. cruising
• 6 ways to travel to Antarctica in luxury and style
• The 11 best Antarctica cruise ships
• These are the best times to visit Antarctica
• Antarctica gear guide: What you need to pack 
• An untamed world: Discovering the wild dreamscape of Antarctica
• I just spent the night in an igloo in Antarctica — here’s how you can, too
• Why kayaking in Antarctica should be on your bucket list
• Antarctica reading list: These 8 books are must-reads before a trip

The Arctic is the second great destination for expedition cruising — and, for me, it’s a toss-up as to which polar region I find more mesmerizing.

Like Antarctica, it’s a land of ice and icebergs and snow, and often spectacular wildlife on display, as well as historical sites related to early explorers. It also has a cultural element that you won’t find in Antarctica, as some land areas in the Arctic are home to Indigenous peoples such as the Inuit, who have occupied the areas for hundreds of years, if not longer.

On some Canadian Arctic itineraries, for instance, expedition ships will stop at one or more of the Inuit settlements that dot the region. Sometimes an Inuit guide will be along for the voyage to talk about Inuit culture and life.

The Arctic offers a far more diverse array of expedition cruise itineraries than Antarctica. You’ll find sailings that typically focus on just one but occasionally more of the following Arctic destinations:

• The Canadian Arctic, including the Northwest Passage
• The North Pole

Until recently, a handful of expedition cruise companies also operated sailings to remote parts of the Russian Arctic, including the ice-covered islands of Franz Josef Land and polar bear hot spot Wrangel Island. A few expedition cruise vessels even have made a complete crossing of the so-called Northeast Passage — the 4,000-mile-long, ice-clogged route across the Russian Arctic that connects Western Europe to the Americas.

Related: 8 things to know about cruising to the Arctic

The latter trips have included stops in remote places that had never been seen by humans until the 20th century, and such voyages have been relatively rare. In 2018, I took part in just the fourth expedition cruise across the Northeast Passage by a Western cruise vessel — a monthlong trip that included many days where we never saw signs of civilization. Additional vessels operated by Russian companies also have made the journey with travelers over the years.

All such trips in the Russian Arctic have been canceled since Russia’s invasion of Ukraine, and it’s unclear if and when they might resume.

While there are commonalities to the expedition cruises offered in all the Arctic regions (you’ll see ice, for instance, and probably a polar bear, no matter which one you choose), each region of the Arctic is a little different.

If I had to choose just one Arctic cruise (and this is a question I get a lot from would-be Arctic cruisers), I probably would pick a sailing around Svalbard. Located between the top of mainland Norway and the North Pole, it’s a relatively compact archipelago where you can get a taste of many of the Arctic’s allures in a relatively short time. You’ll see ice-carved mountains and glaciers, as well as polar bears, reindeer, Arctic foxes and massive bird colonies.

Related: I didn’t think I’d like an Arctic cruise — here’s why I was wrong

That said, an expedition cruise down the west coast of Greenland would be a close contender. I’m not sure I’ve ever seen anything as stunning as the Ilulissat Icefjord and the huge icebergs that spill out of it into Disko Bay. Put that place on your bucket list. You will not regret it.

The Galapagos

The wildlife-filled Galapagos, where most islands are uninhabited, is another classic expedition cruise market — one with an expedition vessel ecosystem all its own, thanks to unusual local regulations.

By law, only vessels based year-round in the Galapagos can offer expedition sailings in the islands. As a result, expedition ships that sail in other parts of the world can’t operate in the Galapagos, and the ships that do operate there are unique to the destination.

In addition, vessels that operate in the Galapagos can’t hold more than 100 passengers. That means that most Galapagos-based expedition vessels are small. Many hold just 16 to 48 passengers.

Cruise companies that have expedition vessels based in the Galapagos include Hurtigruten Expeditions, Lindblad Expeditions, Silversea Cruises and Celebrity Cruises . The latter is a big-ship line that, a bit incongruously, also owns a Galapagos cruise operation using vessels a small fraction of the size of the rest of its ships.

Other cruise companies and tour operators that offer expedition cruises in the Galapagos, typically using chartered vessels, include Avalon Waterways and Abercrombie & Kent. Note that it’s not uncommon for more than one travel company or cruise brand to sell sailings on the same ship in the Galapagos.

The Galapagos comprises 19 larger islands, all but four uninhabited, and the typical weeklong Galapagos cruise includes stops at just five or six of them. That said, many lines offer back-to-back itineraries that include stops at different islands, allowing you to create a longer sailing that is more diverse in its stops.

Cruise lines will generally break the islands into north, south, east and west loops. However, some lines offer inner, outer and central loops. Others feature a combination. The best way to choose among them is to decide which islands you’d most like to visit.

Related: TPG’s ultimate guide to cruising the Galapagos

Several expedition cruise companies and adventure tour companies offer expedition-style sailings up the Amazon River, particularly in the portion located in Peru. These trips are generally operated by tiny vessels that remain on the river year-round.

Among the companies known for Amazon sailings is Aqua Expeditions, which operates two small vessels on the Amazon out of Iquitos, Peru — the 32-passenger Aria Amazon and the 40-passenger Aqua Nera.

The vessels travel along the Maranon River, the Amazon’s largest tributary, as well as other neighboring rivers (the Yarapa and Yanayacu-Pucate) in search of such local wildlife as three-toed sloths, toucans, macaws, taricaya turtles and the Amazon’s elusive pink dolphins.

Most Amazon voyages also include stops at small villages along the riverways, though the focus is on wildlife watching from the river.

Other companies offering similar trips include Exodus Travels, Lindblad Expeditions, Pandaw and Delfin Amazon Cruises.

When imagining an Alaska cruise, most people think of the many sailings offered by big-ship lines such as Princess Cruises and Holland America — traditional cruise voyages that focus on Southeast Alaska’s main tourist towns of Juneau, Skagway and Ketchikan. But Alaska also is the stomping ground of a handful of expedition cruise operators — most notably UnCruise Adventures and Lindblad Expeditions — that offer expedition cruises into the wilderness areas of Southeast Alaska. On these trips, the focus is not on the region’s towns but on its scenic wild lands and wildlife.

Both UnCruise and Lindblad operate small expedition ships in Alaska that mostly carry fewer than 100 passengers (even the biggest UnCruise vessel in Alaska carries just 82 people) and have Zodiac boats for landings as well as kayaks, paddleboards and other adventure equipment.

The ships essentially serve as a floating adventure platform to get you into the most remote areas.

A typical seven-night Alaska expedition cruise might include whale watching in Frederick Sound; a visit to Dawes Glacier and ice-filled Endicott Arm; landings in Tongass National Forest for hiking as well as kayaking, paddleboarding and Zodiac boat touring; and boat-based searching for bears, Sitka deer, sea lions, eagles, mink, porpoises and mountain goats.

The trips often begin and end in one of Southeast Alaska’s small towns, such as Juneau or Sitka.

One other small cruise company, American Queen Voyages, operates a 186-passenger expedition ship in Southeast Alaska that combines wilderness experiences with more traditional cruise-type stops at the area’s towns. Every sailing includes a visit to Ketchikan, Petersburg and Wrangell, as well as outdoorsy pursuits, making it a hybrid of a traditional sailing and an expedition cruise.

Related: The pros and cons of small-ship cruising in Alaska

Alaskan-owned Alaskan Dream Cruises offers small-ship, expedition-style voyages that combine wilderness experiences with at least one and sometimes several stops at small Southeast Alaska settlements such as Pelican, Kasaan, Wrangell, Petersburg and Kake.

Which cruise companies offer expedition cruises?

Most of the big cruise brands that offer traditional cruises (think Royal Caribbean or Norwegian Cruise Line ) don’t own expedition ships or offer expedition cruises. Instead, for the most part, specialized expedition cruise companies have emerged over the past few decades that do nothing but expedition cruises.

That’s not always the case. Traditional luxury cruise operator Silversea Cruises , for instance, in 2008 began building up a separate expedition cruise division that has become a major player in expedition cruises. In just the last two years, traditional cruise brands Viking and Seabourn also have gotten into expedition cruising with new, specialized expedition ships.

In addition, luxury river cruise specialist Scenic Luxury Cruises & Tours recently unveiled its first two expedition ships.

Indeed, a move by traditional cruise operators to add expedition cruises to their offerings is one of the big trends in cruising right now.

Still, many of the best-known brands in expedition cruises aren’t companies you would know if all you know is traditional cruising.

The biggest and most notable players in the expedition cruising space as of 2023 include:

• Antarctica21 (only in Antarctica)
• Aqua Expeditions
• Atlas Ocean Voyages
• Aurora Expeditions
• Celebrity Cruises (only in the Galapagos)
• Lindblad Expeditions
• Hurtigruten Expeditions 
• Hapag-Lloyd Cruises
• Heritage Expeditions
• Ponant Cruises
• Quark Expeditions
• Scenic Luxury Cruises
• Silversea Cruises 
• Swan Hellenic
• Oceanwide Expeditions
• Poseidon Expeditions
• UnCruise Adventures

In addition, many well-known tour companies such as Abercrombie & Kent and Overseas Adventure Travel market expedition trips on vessels chartered in whole or in part from other companies. Abercrombie & Kent, for instance, operates trips to polar regions on vessels chartered from Ponant.

Among the companies with the longest track records in offering expedition cruises to remote places are Lindblad Expeditions and Hurtigruten Expeditions.

Lindblad Expeditions was founded in 1979 by Sven-Olof Lindblad, whose father, Lars-Eric Lindblad, led the first expedition trips to Antarctica (in 1966) and the Galapagos (in 1967). Lindblad Expeditions later pioneered expedition cruise voyages to places like Baja California and parts of the Arctic.

Lindblad Expeditions currently offers more than 100 expedition cruise itineraries across all seven continents.

In recent years, Lindblad Expeditions has partnered with National Geographic and has renamed its ships to include National Geographic in their monikers. For instance, one of Lindblad’s premier vessels sailing in polar regions is called National Geographic Resolution. If you hear someone say they did an expedition cruise with National Geographic, they probably mean Lindblad Expeditions.

Related: Why Lindblad’s new ship may be the ultimate polar exploration vessel  

Hurtigruten Expeditions, a Norway-based company that caters to an international clientele, traces its roots to a cruise service from Norway to Svalbard in the Arctic that started in 1896. The company likes to say this early entry into cruising to a remote place makes it the founder of expedition cruising. It also bills itself as the world’s largest expedition cruise line.

Hapag-Lloyd Cruises, a German company that caters heavily to Germans but draws some English speakers, also was a pioneer in expedition cruising, operating some of the first voyages in parts of the Arctic. The first four voyages by a Western cruise vessel through the Northeast Passage, including the one that I did in 2018, for instance, were on Hapag-Lloyd Cruises expedition ships. Hapag-Lloyd Cruises also did some of the first sailings across the Northwest Passage — the fabled routing across the Canadian Arctic.

Some of the brands mentioned above, including Lindblad, Silversea and Ponant, offer expedition cruises in a wide range of destinations. Others are more focused.

UnCruise Adventures, for instance, is a specialist in adventurous, outdoorsy, ship-based trips in remote parts of Alaska, although it also offers expedition cruises in the Sea of Cortez and other parts of Central America. It also offers Hawaii cruises that combine outdoorsy pursuits with a cultural-focused visit to the island of Molokai and a day in the town of Lahaina on the island of Maui.

Expedition cruise operator Antarctica21 only operates voyages in and around — you guessed it — Antarctica.

How long are expedition cruises?

As with traditional cruises, there is a wide range of lengths for expedition cruises. For trips to remote places such as Antarctica and parts of the Arctic, even the shortest trips available can be 10 days. Some itineraries extend to two weeks or more.

If you’re planning a trip to Antarctica, note that just getting to the starting points for such trips in Ushuaia, Argentina, or Punta Arenas, Chile, from the United States (assuming that’s your home) can take two full days — longer if, like many Antarctica-bound travelers, you add in a stop in Buenos Aires, Argentina, or Santiago, Chile, on the way. (Pro tip: You may want to do just that to break up a grueling transit.)

As a result, even the shortest vacations to Antarctica from the United States are usually two-week-long affairs. If you pick a sailing that includes a stop at South Georgia Island and the Falkland Islands, you’re looking at a minimum of three weeks away from home.

Related: The ultimate guide to picking the right cruise line for you

Expedition cruises in the Arctic also can stretch into multiple weeks. If you’re short on time, as noted above, your best bet is a sailing around Svalbard, which can be done in a week plus travel time to reach the archipelago.

You can find some expedition cruises in the Galapagos that are shorter than a week. But as with Antarctica, it’s a destination that takes a long time to reach. The typical U.S. traveler heading to the Galapagos will fly first to Quito, Ecuador, and spend at least a night there, maybe several, before continuing to the Galapagos. After all that travel, you might want to make the most of it and stay in the islands longer.

Expedition cruises in the Peruvian Amazon typically are short — sometimes just three days long. But they’re often paired with other touring to create longer South America trips.

How much do expedition cruises cost?

Expedition cruises can be expensive, with pricing on par with traditional luxury cruises. It’s not unusual to see expedition cruises to Antarctica and the Arctic priced at $1,000 per person per day — or more. Add in flights to reach the starting points for such trips, pre- and post-cruise hotel stays and other extra costs, and you could pay $15,000 or more per person for such trips.

If that seems high, remember that expedition ships are specialized vessels that are expensive to build on a per-berth basis (particularly those with polar-class ratings). They also require a relatively high ratio of staff to passengers to operate compared with mass-market cruise ships.

In short, expedition cruise companies face a high cost on a per-berth basis to operate their vessels — and those costs will be reflected in the cruise fares.

Related: These expedition cruises are $30,000 and have no set itinerary

Can anyone do an expedition cruise?

Travelers with mobility issues may find it difficult to get the most out of expedition cruises, as the trips are relatively active.

By definition, expedition cruises involve visiting remote places with little or no infrastructure for tourists, and the lack of infrastructure extends to a lack of docks and tender boat services that would allow a passenger with mobility issues to get on and off the vessel. In addition, once you land at an expedition cruise destination, you will often be moving over uneven terrain.

In many cases, touring from an expedition ship starts with stepping off the side of the vessel onto a small, open-to-the-air rubber Zodiac boat bobbing in the waves and then being driven by a guide in that small vessel a considerable distance to the shore, sometimes in choppy seas. Once at the shore, passengers often must climb over the side of the boat into ankle-deep or deeper water and wade ashore in what is known as a “wet landing.”

Touring from there can involve hiking over rocky areas, snowfields and ice in search of wildlife.

If all of the above sounds like something you wouldn’t enjoy doing, you might want to skip an expedition cruise and focus on more traditional cruises instead.

That said, I’ve seen many travelers with mobility issues on expedition cruises enjoying the experience, even if the landings part of the trip came with some difficulty.

One line that has designed its expeditions vessels specifically to be more widely accessible for passengers with mobility issues is Viking, a line that traditionally has catered to travelers ages 55 to 75 years old.

Viking’s two expedition ships, which debuted in 2022, were built with an unusual enclosed marina that allows passengers to easily transfer into 12-seat “special operations boats” while still in the protected interior of the ship. It’s a first for an expedition cruise ship, and it makes it easier for passengers with mobility issues to get on and off the ship and see wildlife and scenery up close.

Bottom line

Expedition cruising is nothing like traditional cruising. It’s all about getting to off-the-beaten-path destinations, including places with no infrastructure for tourism, such as Antarctica and parts of the Arctic, Galapagos and Amazon River basin. If you’re hoping to see scenic wonders and wildlife, and you’re up for an adventure, then an expedition cruise may be right for you. If so, you’ll find a wide range of both destinations to visit by expedition cruise ship and companies that offer them.

Planning a cruise? Start with these stories:

• The 5 most desirable cabin locations on any cruise ship
• The 8 worst cabin locations on any cruise ship
• A quick guide to the most popular cruise lines
• 21 tips and tricks that will make your cruise go smoothly
• 15 ways cruisers waste money
• 15 best cruises for people who never want to grow up
• What to pack for your 1st cruise

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Editorial Disclaimer: Opinions expressed here are the author’s alone, not those of any bank, credit card issuer, airlines or hotel chain, and have not been reviewed, approved or otherwise endorsed by any of these entities.