Travelling to Antarctica is the ultimate wilderness experience, and one that’s once in a lifetime — unless perhaps you’re an actual explorer. Only sighted for the first time in 1820, this frozen landmass is today synonymous with heroic explorations by stalwarts like Scott and Shackleton. Their brave adventures on this remote White Continent still inspire visitors today. Despite historic rivalries in crossing the ice, no single nation owns Antarctica; it’s governed and protected by an international treaty, which ensures a haven for future generations.
Modern-day visitors can choose between two routes to reach this icy paradise: flying across the occasionally turbulent Drake Passage from the southern tip of Argentina or embarking on a cruise, usually conducted between November and March. Cruises also set sail from Australia and New Zealand, expanding the options for intrepid travelers. Large ships often focus on sail-by experiences only, while smaller, expedition-style vessels, which must carry fewer than 500 passengers, receive permits for landings. Usually staffed with experts, these ships offer guests in-depth knowledge about the stunning environment and the diverse wildlife that inhabits it, including whales and iconic penguins.
Seabourn
£££ | PASSENGERS 264 | Best for epicureans
Cruises to Antarctica are available aboard the line’s two purpose-built “ultra-luxury” expedition ships, Seabourn Venture and Seabourn Pursuit, launched in 2023. You can expect lavish suites with private verandas, thoughtful touches like round-the-clock room service, and fully stocked minibars. With a 24-strong team of scientists, naturalists, and expert guides on board, adventures are all but guaranteed. Gastronomically, you’d be treated to fine wines and gourmet dining between excursions, including freshly made sushi bites and artisanal gelato. Some voyages even include six days visiting the Antarctic peninsula, with additional stops in South Georgia and the Falkland Islands.
Hapag-Lloyd Cruises
£££ | PASSENGERS 230 | Best for views
For those wishing to get closer to nature, the German cruise line Hapag-Lloyd boasts more open deck space than its competitors. The expedition ships—Hanseatic Nature, Hanseatic Inspiration, and Hanseatic Spirit—feature glass-floored balconies to observe the marine life below as you cruise, complemented by an observation lounge offering panoramic views. Cruises typically last around 20 days, often including the Argentinian port of Ushuaia, although there’s a lengthy 31-day journey that semi-circumnavigates Antarctica.
Celebrity Cruises
£ | PASSENGERS 2,852 | Best for value
For those who may not wish to kayak or snowshoe, but still want to feast their eyes on the dramatic landscapes of Antarctica, Celebrity Cruises offers a financially friendly alternative. Round-trip itineraries from Buenos Aires aboard the Celebrity Equinox last 14 days and feature stops in the Falkland Islands and Uruguay. While Celebrity doesn’t utilize expedition ships, meaning you won’t set foot on the continent, the onboard experiences vary from casino fun to spa days all while taking in breathtaking sights like Elephant Island and Paradise Bay.
Silversea Expeditions
£££ | PASSENGERS 274 | Best for short voyages
Silversea operates several ships that provide five-star offerings, including spa facilities and multiple dining venues. Voyages can range as short as six days, starting from King George Island, or extend to 40 days, incorporating key locations like South Georgia and the Falkland Islands. Their vessels—Silver Endeavour, Silver Cloud, and Silver Wind—are designed for both comfort and elegance, creating an impeccable experience for travelers.
HX
£££ | PASSENGERS 500 | Best for sustainability
HX operates three purpose-built vessels designed to minimize the environmental impact while maximizing the exploration experience. The MS Roald Amundsen and MS Fridtjof Nansen can each accommodate 500 guests, all featuring private balconies. With a focus on sustainability, these ships employ hybrid power systems, significantly reducing carbon footprints. Smaller, refurbished vessels like MS Fram offer educational while adventure-centric voyages, including unique underwater explorations thanks to their advanced facilities.
AE Expeditions
£££ | PASSENGERS 132 | Best for families
The Australian-owned AE Expeditions has a long history of Arctic and Antarctic adventures, introducing unique activities, including ice camping. Their two vessels feature innovations like the X-Bow design for smoother voyages, ensuring both comfort and fuel efficiency. Flexible itineraries allow for activities like diving and skiing, while children over eight are warmly welcomed, especially on the Sylvia Earle, which includes a swimming pool.
Scenic
£££ | PASSENGERS 200 | Best for style and comfort
With ships like Scenic Eclipse and Eclipse II, this line embodies luxury with the added adventure of two helicopters and a submarine onboard. Operating with an air of sophistication and class akin to a six-star hotel, itineraries extend to explore the vast, icy landscapes filled with extraordinary wildlife.
Ponant
£££ | PASSENGERS 264 | Best for Francophiles
This French line brings a touch of elegance to Antarctic voyages, with several ships offering experiences that pay homage to legendary polar explorer Jean-Baptiste Charcot. Culinary delights speak of fine French dining complemented by eco-friendly hybrid-powered travel experiences.
Quark Expeditions
£££ | PASSENGERS 199 | Best for heli adventures
Focusing exclusively on polar regions, Quark Expeditions is renowned for its educational approach. Their fleet includes the Ultramarine, equipped with helicopters and Zodiacs, ensuring an unparalleled exploration experience. Various itineraries highlight both endemic wildlife and stunning natural wonders of Antarctica.
Viking
££ | PASSENGERS 378 | Best for all-inclusive package
Viking simplifies travel with an all-inclusive approach covering everything from flights to 24-hour room service. Their specially-built ships feature amenities that cater well to diverse mobility needs, making Antarctic exploration accessible to all, including adventures with the ship’s own submarine.
Eyos Expeditions
£££ | PASSENGERS 22 | Best for bespoke experiences
Focusing on unique, custom experiences, Eyos Expeditions offers journeys aboard stylish superyachts that prioritize safety without sacrificing luxury. With chartered vessels allowing for flexible itineraries, travelers are afforded the chance to explore the frigid wonderland of Antarctica while enjoying catered comforts.
Lindblad Expeditions
£££ | PASSENGERS 148 | Best for epic voyages
Having initiated the first non-scientific Antarctic cruise, Lindblad Expeditions has gained a strong reputation for originality and quality. Their ships attend to the needs of a sophisticated traveler while providing rich narrative experiences featuring National Geographic experts on board.
Antarctica 21
£££ | PASSENGERS 73 | Best for small-ship cruising
Antarctica 21 revolutionized air-cruise expeditions that allow travelers to bypass the rough seas of the Drake Passage, opting instead for scenic flights. This small-vessel cruise line features intimate and inclusive experiences, befitting both seasoned explorers and curious first-timers alike.
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