An Antarctica cruise is a trip to the coldest, windiest and most remote continent on Earth. Most voyages visit the Antarctic Peninsula, the arm of land that reaches toward South America, and many add the Falkland Islands and South Georgia. It suits travelers who want wildlife, ice and wild scenery more than nightlife or shopping, and who are comfortable with weather that can change plans.
When to go
The season runs from about November to March, during the southern summer. Outside those months the sea ice and darkness close the region to cruise ships.
| When | What to expect | Good for |
|---|---|---|
| November | Thick snow and pristine ice. Penguins begin courtship and nest building. Cooler temperatures. | Snowy landscapes, photographers, fewer ships |
| December–January | Longest daylight, often close to 20 hours. Penguin chicks hatch. The busiest and most popular weeks. | Wildlife activity, holiday travel, mildest weather |
| February–March | Chicks grow and fledge. Whale sightings increase. Snow melts back in places. | Whale watching, active penguin colonies |
Routes compared
Antarctic Peninsula
The classic voyage is roughly 10 to 12 nights round trip from Ushuaia, Argentina. Ships cross the Drake Passage in about two days each way, then spend several days among the South Shetland Islands and the channels and bays of the Peninsula. Landings by Zodiac boat bring you ashore at penguin colonies and research-station areas.
Falklands, South Georgia and the Peninsula
Longer voyages of about 18 to 23 nights add the Falkland Islands and South Georgia. South Georgia is known for very large king penguin colonies, elephant and fur seals, and the history of Ernest Shackleton. These trips include more sea days but give the fullest picture of the Southern Ocean.
Fly-cruise options
Some operators fly guests from Punta Arenas, Chile, to King George Island and start the cruise there. This skips the Drake Passage crossing, but flights depend on the weather, so build in spare days.
Scenic cruising on larger ships
Larger ships on South America itineraries sometimes spend a few days cruising Antarctic waters without landing anyone. Under the IAATO guidelines that tour operators follow, ships carrying more than 500 passengers do not land guests, and smaller ships limit how many people go ashore at one time. If setting foot on the continent matters to you, choose an expedition ship.
Where cruises leave from
Most Antarctic expedition cruises start in Ushuaia, at the southern tip of Argentina. Many travelers fly through Buenos Aires and spend a night there before the charter or scheduled flight south. Some voyages begin in Punta Arenas, Chile, and scenic-cruising itineraries usually sail between Buenos Aires and Santiago (San Antonio or Valparaíso) around Cape Horn. See our departure ports for other gateways.
Which cruise line?
Expedition ships are small, ice-strengthened and carry Zodiacs, kayaks and teams of naturalists and lecturers. Luxury lines have invested heavily in this region.
- Silversea offers all-inclusive expedition voyages and is one of the lines that operates fly-cruise options.
- Seabourn sails purpose-built expedition ships with an emphasis on comfort and dining.
- Viking runs expedition ships with science programs and a calm, enrichment-led style.
- Holland America Line and Princess Cruises include Antarctic scenic cruising on some longer South America voyages, a lower-key way to see the ice from deck.
Packing and travel documents
Expedition lines usually provide a parka and lend waterproof boots. You still need layers you can add and remove.
- Waterproof pants, thermal base layers, a warm hat, a neck gaiter and waterproof gloves.
- Polarized sunglasses and strong sunscreen. Light reflects strongly off snow and ice.
- Binoculars and a camera with spare batteries, which drain fast in the cold.
- Seasickness remedies for the Drake Passage. Talk to your doctor before you travel.
You need a valid passport for travel through Argentina or Chile. Check current entry requirements for each country on your route, and read our US passport information. Many expedition lines require proof of travel and emergency evacuation insurance, and some ask for a medical form, so read your cruise documents early.
Browse current Antarctica cruises, or request a quote and an advisor will help you compare ships, routes and cabin options.
