Travelling to Antarctica is the ultimate wilderness experience—an adventure that beckons those with a spirit for exploration and a thirst for the incredible. First sighted in 1820, this icy expanse remains a symbol of heroism and discovery, with tales of legendary explorers like Robert Scott and Ernest Shackleton still resonating today. Governed by an international treaty, Antarctica is a testament to collective stewardship, shared by no single nation.
Modern-day adventurers are met with options: fly over the tumultuous Drake Passage from Argentina or embark on a cruise during the late spring and summer months (November to March). Cruises depart not just from South America but also from Australia and New Zealand, offering myriad ways to reach this pristine paradise.
Large vessels generally provide sail-by experiences, while only smaller expedition-style ships, accommodating fewer than 500 passengers, are authorized to make landings. Onboard experts often share their knowledge, enhancing your understanding of the breathtaking surroundings and the rich wildlife, from playful penguins to majestic whales. Depending on your vessel, you might enjoy gourmet meals and luxurious amenities or a rugged, science-focused journey. Here’s a curated list of the best luxury cruises to Antarctica.
1. Seabourn
£££ | PASSENGERS 264 | Best for epicureans
Seabourn offers ultra-luxury experiences aboard its purpose-built expedition ships, the Seabourn Venture and Seabourn Pursuit. Launched in 2023, these ships boast lavish suites with private verandas, round-the-clock room service, and spacious wardrobes for expedition gear. Onboard, a 24-member team of scientists and naturalists awaits, alongside 24 Zodiacs and custom submarines for unique explorations. Expect exquisite dining, complete with gourmet sushi and artisanal gelato, alongside exceptional wines.
2. Hapag-Lloyd Cruises
£££ | PASSENGERS 230 | Best for views
With three expedition vessels, Hapag-Lloyd prides itself on open deck spaces that heighten your experience of the breathtaking landscapes. The ships feature glass-floored balconies for a unique view below, plus lounges that afford panoramic views of the surrounding seascape. Typical voyages last around 20 days, visiting the Argentinian port of Ushuaia and possibly circumnavigating Antarctica with itineraries leading to South America.
3. Celebrity Cruises
£ | PASSENGERS 2,852 | Best for value
If you seek dramatic Antarctic views without the commitment of landing on the continent, Celebrity offers an economical solution. Cruises aboard Celebrity Equinox take you on a 14-day round trip from Buenos Aires, including stops like Port Stanley in the Falkland Islands. While not an expedition ship, Celebrity provides comfortable amenities like a casino and spa, ensuring you savor the icy surroundings from the deck.
4. Silversea Expeditions
£££ | PASSENGERS 274 | Best for short voyages
Silversea offers ultra-luxurious expeditions with three vessels—Silver Endeavour, Silver Cloud, and Silver Wind. Spa facilities, multiple dining venues, and the option for voyages as short as six days appealingly cater to varied preferences. For those attracted to extensive voyages, a more indulgent 40-day itinerary awaits, leading adventurers from Puerto Williams to Cape Town, with additional stops in South Georgia.
5. HX
£££ | PASSENGERS 500 | Best for sustainability
The HX fleet operates with a conscience, emphasizing eco-friendliness. Equipped with hybrid power systems, ships like the MS Roald Amundsen and MS Fridtjof Nansen accommodate 500 passengers, and even feature private balconies. Voyages emphasize learning and adventure, with educational sessions on wildlife conservation and underwater exploration with drones.
6. AE Expeditions
£££ | PASSENGERS 132 | Best for families
Australian-owned AE Expeditions packs adventure into every itinerary, offering unique activities like ice camping and mountain climbing. Its two state-of-the-art ships, Greg Mortimer and Sylvia Earle, feature modern designs that enhance cruising efficiency. While catering to families with kids aged eight and above, the vessels offer various comforts, including a swimming pool and library.
7. Scenic
£££ | PASSENGERS 200 | Best for style and comfort
Blending the luxury of a superyacht with hotel-like amenities, Scenic’s ships, including Scenic Eclipse and Eclipse II, come equipped with helipads and submarines for exclusive excursions. Offering multiple dining venues, comprehensive wellness facilities, and comfortable suites, these ships are designed for a 13-day adventure focusing on the extraordinary wildlife of the Weddell Sea.
8. Ponant
£££ | PASSENGERS 264 | Best for Francophiles
Ponant adds a touch of French elegance to Antarctic cruising. With ships like Le Commandant Charcot, a hybrid vessel featuring eco-friendly technology, guests are treated to sumptuous cuisine and itineraries that pay homage to historical explorations. These voyages can lead guests to witness emperor penguins or other unique wildlife across various landscapes.
9. Quark Expeditions
£££ | PASSENGERS 199 | Best for heli adventures
Quark specializes exclusively in polar adventures and boasts over three decades of expertise. Available ships like the Ultramarine are equipped with helicopters for breathtaking aerial excursions. With voyages that can stretch from eight to twenty-three days, you have options to tailor your Antarctic experience, even offering “Fly the Drake” itineraries to skip the turbulent sea crossing.
10. Viking
££ | PASSENGERS 378 | Best for all-inclusive packages
Viking’s all-inclusive offerings encompass everything from accommodations and meals to shore excursions, ensuring a seamless experience. Crafted for accessibility, two ships sail to Antarctica with features like a special operations boat for direct sea access. Enhancements, including opportunities to dive in the chilly waters, make Viking a strong contender for those seeking comprehensive packaged experiences.
11. Eyos Expeditions
£££ | PASSENGERS 22 | Best for bespoke experiences
Eyos focuses on intimate journeys aboard superyachts, ensuring personalized exploration of secluded destinations. They utilize vessels like the Hanse Explorer for tailored itineraries, granting flexibility amid dynamic weather conditions while blending safety and luxury.
12. Lindblad Expeditions
£££ | PASSENGERS 148 | Best for epic voyages
With a rich history dating back to the first non-scientific cruise to Antarctica in 1966, Lindblad has formed a robust partnership with National Geographic. Passengers on vessels like the National Geographic Explorer receive unique insights from onboard photographers and naturalists, with options for voyaging that include expansive excursions to areas of biological significance.
13. Antarctica 21
£££ | PASSENGERS 73 | Best for small-ship cruising
Pioneering air-cruise expeditions, Antarctica 21 offers unique itineraries that include flights across the Drake Passage, allowing you to focus on experiencing regions like King George Island without the lengthy crossing. Their small vessels provide an intimate ambiance, ideal for those prioritizing a close connection with the stunning landscapes and wildlife.
• How to travel to Antarctica: everything you need to know
• Read our full guide to Cruise holidays
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