DESTINATION

Antarctica

Journey to the edge of the world where towering icebergs, sprawling penguin colonies, and breaching whales await. From the legendary Drake Passage to the pristine shores of South Georgia and the Antarctic Peninsula, discover why expedition cruisers call this the voyage of a lifetime.

Venture to Earth’s Final Frontier

An expedition cruise to Antarctica is unlike anything else on the planet. Summer temperatures hover around 0°C (32°F), and nearly 24 hours of daylight illuminate a world of staggering beauty — colossal glaciers calving into sapphire seas, vast colonies of penguins stretching to the horizon, and whales surfacing just metres from your Zodiac. It may not be on everyone’s radar, but those who make the journey unanimously agree: Antarctica changes you. Our expert advisors have navigated these waters and can walk you through every detail, from choosing the right expedition ship to picking the ideal month for the wildlife encounters you want most.

An excited passenger slides down a vibrant yellow water slide on a cruise ship, with blue and red water slides in the background and ocean visible beyond the ship's deck.
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A large MSC cruise ship docked at the pristine Ocean Cay marine reserve in the Bahamas, with a white lighthouse and turquoise waters surrounding a white sandy beach.
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A picturesque harbor view of Ketchikan, Alaska, featuring colorful waterfront buildings, fishing boats, and mountains at golden hour, showcasing the town's maritime character.
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Greenland Glaciers
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Remarkable Wildlife

Encounter Humpback, Minke, Orca, and Blue Whales in their feeding grounds. Witness vast penguin colonies — Gentoo, Chinstrap, Adélie, and the elusive Emperor — alongside leopard seals, elephant seals, and soaring albatross.

Expedition-Class Comfort

Today’s polar expedition ships pair ice-strengthened hulls with luxury amenities — think gourmet dining, full-service spas, and heated observation lounges. Explore the most remote continent without sacrificing an ounce of comfort.

Hands-On Polar Adventures

Take the legendary polar plunge, paddle a sea kayak between cathedral-sized icebergs, cruise right up to glacier faces in a Zodiac, and set foot on the 7th continent — experiences that redefine what adventure means.

Antarctica’s Expedition Routes

Three distinct itineraries let you tailor the expedition to your interests — whether you’re drawn to dramatic icebergs, massive wildlife colonies, or the rarest penguin species on Earth. Our expert advisors will help you choose the route that matches your sense of adventure.

A modern, spacious cruise ship suite with a large angled window offering an expansive ocean view. The room features a plush gray sectional sofa, minimalist furniture, and a wall-mounted flat-screen television.
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Antarctic Peninsula

Key Highlights: Drake Passage, Lemaire Channel, Paradise Bay, Port Lockroy

Known For: Towering icebergs, penguin rookeries, Zodiac shore landings, historic research stations

Ideal For: First-time polar explorers seeking a complete Antarctic introduction

Duration: 10–14 nights

Amazon Pink Dolphin
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Falklands & South Georgia

Key Highlights: Falkland Islands, South Georgia, Shackleton’s grave at Grytviken

Known For: Enormous King Penguin colonies, elephant seals, wandering albatross, historic whaling stations

Ideal For: Wildlife photographers and history enthusiasts

Duration: 18–23 nights

A picturesque view of a colorful Alaskan fishing harbor with vibrant boats docked along wooden piers, backed by snow-capped mountains and a distant glacier at sunset.
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Emperor Penguin Quest

Key Highlights: Snow Hill Island, Weddell Sea, helicopter excursions

Known For: Rare Emperor Penguin encounters, deep-ice exploration, icebreaker vessels

Ideal For: Seasoned adventurers seeking the ultimate polar wildlife experience

Duration: 10–14 nights

Compare Antarctica Expedition Routes

Feature Antarctic Peninsula Falklands & South Georgia Emperor Penguin Quest
Typical Duration 10–14 nights 18–23 nights 10–14 nights
Departure Port Ushuaia, Argentina Ushuaia, Argentina Ushuaia, Argentina
Best For First-time polar explorers, photographers Wildlife lovers, history enthusiasts Ultimate adventure seekers
Highlights Icebergs, Zodiac landings, penguin colonies King Penguins, Shackleton history, elephant seals Emperor Penguins, helicopters, Weddell Sea ice
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Let our expedition advisors guide you to the bottom of the world.

Planning a journey to the 7th continent can feel overwhelming — that’s exactly where our team shines. We’ve navigated these waters, we know the ships inside and out, and we understand what makes each itinerary special. Whether you’re drawn to the classic Antarctic Peninsula for its cinematic icebergs and penguin colonies, the extended Falklands and South Georgia route for its staggering King Penguin beaches and Shackleton history, or the rare Emperor Penguin Quest with its helicopter landings on Snow Hill Island — we’ll match you to the right voyage.

Expedition leaders like Scenic Eclipse, Lindblad (with National Geographic), Seabourn, Silversea, Ponant, and Quark each bring something unique to polar cruising. From ultra-luxury suites with butler service to expedition-focused vessels packed with Zodiacs and kayaks, the options are broader than you might expect. Talk to one of our advisors today — there are no fees, just honest guidance from people who’ve been there.

Extend Your Expedition

Many Antarctica voyages can be paired with nearby destinations to turn your expedition into a truly epic journey. Our advisors love building these extended itineraries.

  • Patagonia – Hike Torres del Paine and explore Tierra del Fuego before setting sail
  • Buenos Aires – Immerse yourself in Argentina’s vibrant capital for a few days pre-cruise
  • Chilean Fjords – Thread through dramatic glacial valleys and pristine waterways
  • Fly-Cruise Options – Skip the Drake Passage with a direct flight to King George Island
A large group of emperor penguins gathered on a snowy landscape with a massive white ice shelf in the background under a cloudy gray sky. The penguins are densely clustered across the frozen terrain, showcasing the harsh Antarctic environment.
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Find your specialty cruise today!

We’ll help find the perfect specialty cruise—whether you’re crossing oceans, transiting canals, or exploring the ends of the Earth.

When to Set Sail for Antarctica

Antarctica’s expedition season spans November through March — the Southern Hemisphere’s summer — and each window delivers a distinctly different experience. Our advisors will help you pick the timing that aligns with your priorities.

November – December (Early Season): The ice is just beginning to break up, revealing pristine landscapes blanketed in fresh snow. Penguins are courting and nesting, daylight stretches nearly around the clock, and the scenery is at its most photogenic.

January – February (Peak Season): Temperatures reach their warmest (around 0–5°C), penguin chicks are hatching across the colonies, and whale activity surges. This is prime time for Zodiac landings and the widest range of shore excursion options.

Late February – March (Late Season): Whale watching reaches its peak as humpbacks and orcas feed before migration. Penguin chicks are fledging, spectacular sunsets return to the sky, and fewer ships mean quieter, more intimate landings.

A breathtaking coastal scene featuring a small boat, seals on rocky shores, and bald eagles soaring against a vibrant sunset in a lush Alaskan landscape with snow-capped mountains.
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Why Book with Cruise Help

Expert Advisors

Specialty cruise specialists who understand the unique requirements of expedition and world voyages.

Exclusive Perks

Access to special deals, onboard credits, and amenities not available when booking direct.

Personalised Planning

Custom recommendations for ships, itineraries, and cabin selection on complex voyages.

Full Support

Assistance from booking through disembarkation and beyond—we’re with you every step.

Antarctica Expedition FAQs

The Antarctic expedition season runs from November through early March, during the Southern Hemisphere’s summer. November and December deliver pristine snowscapes and penguin nesting activity. January and February bring the warmest conditions and peak wildlife encounters. Late February into March is outstanding for whale watching as species feed before their migration north.

The Antarctic Peninsula itinerary is our most popular recommendation for first-time polar travellers. Departing from Ushuaia, Argentina, it typically runs 10–14 nights and packs in the classic highlights — the Drake Passage crossing, Lemaire Channel, penguin landings, and Zodiac cruises past towering icebergs. It’s the perfect introduction to the White Continent.

The Antarctic Peninsula focuses on dramatic ice scenery, penguin colonies, and shore landings along the peninsula itself. The Falklands and South Georgia route is a longer voyage (18–23 nights) that adds massive King Penguin colonies, elephant seals, and Shackleton’s historic grave at Grytviken. The Emperor Penguin Quest ventures into the Weddell Sea with helicopter transfers to Snow Hill Island for rare Emperor Penguin encounters.

Voyage lengths range from about 10 nights for an Antarctic Peninsula expedition to 23 nights for extended Falklands and South Georgia itineraries. Keep in mind that roughly two days each way are spent crossing the Drake Passage (unless you opt for a fly-cruise that bypasses the crossing). Our advisors will help you choose a duration that fits your schedule and wish list.

Yes — a valid passport is required for every Antarctica expedition. Most voyages depart from Ushuaia, Argentina, so your passport must be valid for at least six months beyond your travel dates. Some itineraries also stop at the Falkland Islands (a British Overseas Territory), which may have additional entry requirements. We strongly recommend ensuring your passport is up to date well in advance.

Bring waterproof outer layers (jacket and trousers), warm thermal base layers, a warm hat and gloves, UV-protective sunglasses, high-SPF sunscreen, binoculars, and a quality camera with spare batteries — cold temperatures drain batteries fast. Many expedition ships provide waterproof boots and parkas for your use onboard. Dress code is casual on most ships, though select luxury lines offer formal dining evenings. We’ll send you a detailed packing guide once you book.

Several outstanding operators lead Antarctic expeditions. For ultra-luxury, look at Scenic Eclipse, Seabourn, or Silversea. Lindblad Expeditions partners with National Geographic for immersive educational experiences. Quark Expeditions focuses exclusively on polar voyages. Ponant and Hurtigruten also offer well-regarded itineraries. Our team of 23+ advisors will match you with the line that fits your style, comfort level, and budget — with no fees, ever.

Absolutely. Reputable expedition lines operate purpose-built ships with ice-strengthened hulls, state-of-the-art navigation, and highly experienced ice pilots. All shore activities follow strict IAATO (International Association of Antarctica Tour Operators) guidelines. Weather and ice conditions are monitored continuously, and itineraries flex as needed to prioritise safety. You’re in very capable hands.

Antarctica delivers some of the most thrilling wildlife viewing anywhere on Earth. You can expect to see multiple penguin species (Gentoo, Chinstrap, Adélie, and potentially Emperor on specialist itineraries). Marine mammals include humpback, minke, and orca whales, plus leopard seals, Weddell seals, and elephant seals. Birdlife is equally impressive — wandering albatross, giant petrels, skuas, and Antarctic terns are commonly spotted.

The polar plunge is a once-in-a-lifetime experience offered on nearly every Antarctic expedition. You’ll take a brief, supervised dip in the frigid Southern Ocean — water temperatures sit around -2 to 0°C. It’s entirely voluntary, exhilarating (our advisors who’ve done it say it’s unforgettable), and you’ll earn bragging rights plus a certificate to prove it. We always say: you’ll regret not doing it far more than doing it!