Antarctic Cruises & Expeditions

The most popular and accessible Antarctic expedition is the classic cruise around the Antarctic Peninsula and neighboring South Shetland Islands. These 10-14 day voyages operate during the Antarctic summer, departing from the southern tip of Argentina.

After navigating across the famed Drake Passage, ships enter the icy waters of the Antarctic Peninsula where guests can take guided landings, zodiac excursions and cruise amid towering glaciers and icebergs. Spot large colonies of penguins like Gentoo, Adelie and Chinstrap up close. Whales, seals and abundant marine life are commonly seen. Camping, kayaking, snowshoeing and mountaineering are also options on many cruises.

While Antarctic Peninsula cruises cover the most accessible region, they still provide an epic journey into the Great White Continent. Cruise operators like Quark, Lindblad, Silversea, Hurtigruten and others run these popular voyages.

Antarctic Peninsula Cruises

The Antarctic Peninsula is the most accessible and popular destination for expedition cruises to Antarctica. This narrow strip of land extends towards South America and is renowned for its stunning scenery, towering icebergs, and abundant wildlife.

Key Highlights:

Wildlife Encounters: Visitors can expect to see large colonies of penguins, including Gentoo, Chinstrap, and Adélie species. Humpback whales, orcas, and various seal species are also frequently spotted in the surrounding waters.
Scenic Wonders: Highlights include navigating through the breathtaking Lemaire Channel, often called “Kodak Alley” due to its photogenic beauty, and visiting Deception Island, an active volcano with a natural harbor.
Historic Sites: Explore historic research stations and relics of early Antarctic explorers, including bases like Port Lockroy, now a museum and post office.

Cruise Experience: Typical Antarctic Peninsula cruises last between 10-14 days, departing from Ushuaia, Argentina. Passengers cross the Drake Passage, experiencing the excitement of open ocean travel before reaching the icy landscapes of the peninsula. Daily excursions via Zodiac boats allow for close-up views of the wildlife and ice formations, as well as opportunities for activities like kayaking, ice climbing, and even camping on the continent.

Ross Sea Region Cruises

Discover the Last Great Wilderness: The Ross Sea is one of the most pristine and untouched marine environments on Earth, often described as the “last ocean.” This region is less visited due to its remote location and challenging conditions, but it offers unmatched beauty and historical significance.

Key Highlights:

Emperor Penguins: One of the few places where visitors can see the majestic Emperor Penguins in their natural habitat, particularly around Cape Washington.
Historic Huts: Visit the well-preserved huts of early explorers like Ernest Shackleton and Robert Falcon Scott, providing a glimpse into the heroic age of Antarctic exploration.
Ross Ice Shelf: Witness the world’s largest ice shelf, an awe-inspiring expanse of floating ice stretching hundreds of miles.

Cruise Experience: Ross Sea cruises are lengthy, often exceeding a month, and typically depart from ports in New Zealand. These expeditions navigate through the icy waters of the Southern Ocean, offering passengers the chance to explore one of the most remote places on the planet. The journey includes opportunities for Zodiac landings, wildlife viewing, and in-depth educational lectures about the region’s history and ecology.

Fly/Cruise Antarctic Air Adventures

Fly Over the Drake Passage: For those short on time or seeking to avoid the sometimes rough seas of the Drake Passage, fly/cruise options provide a unique way to reach Antarctica. These adventures combine the convenience of flying with the immersive experience of an expedition cruise.

Key Highlights:

Quick Access: Fly from Punta Arenas, Chile, to King George Island in the South Shetland Islands, bypassing the Drake Passage and reducing travel time.
Immediate Immersion: Upon landing, passengers board their expedition vessel and begin exploring the Antarctic Peninsula almost immediately.
Flexible Itineraries: Options range from short 7-day cruises to longer 15-day expeditions, allowing for tailored experiences.

Cruise Experience: Fly/cruise packages offer the best of both worlds: the convenience and speed of air travel combined with the deep exploration possibilities of a cruise. Passengers can engage in typical Antarctic activities such as Zodiac excursions, wildlife watching, and visiting scientific research stations, all within a more condensed timeframe.

Other Experiences

Unique Antarctic Expeditions: Beyond the traditional cruise routes, there are several other extraordinary ways to experience Antarctica, catering to various interests and adventure levels.

Key Highlights:

Subantarctic Islands: Explore the remote and wildlife-rich islands such as South Georgia and the Falklands, often included in longer Antarctic itineraries. These islands are home to large populations of king penguins, elephant seals, and numerous bird species.
Icebreaker Voyages: For the ultimate adventure, join an icebreaker expedition to venture deep into the Weddell Sea or even attempt a crossing of the Antarctic Circle. These robust vessels can navigate through thick sea ice, reaching areas few have ever seen.
Photography Expeditions: Specialized photography cruises offer workshops and guided tours focused on capturing the stunning landscapes and wildlife of Antarctica. Led by professional photographers, these trips provide in-depth instruction and ample opportunities for capturing the perfect shot.

Cruise Experience: Each type of unique expedition offers specialized itineraries and activities tailored to the interests of its participants. Whether it’s hiking across subantarctic landscapes, visiting remote penguin colonies, or photographing the ethereal light of the Antarctic midnight sun, these experiences provide an unparalleled way to explore the southernmost continent.