Do you dream of visiting Antarctica? Turn this into a reality and book a trip to see the white continent for yourself.
So many travel operators offer cruise holidays and expeditions to Antarctica allowing you to see this incredible destination up close in comfort.
You can book luxury trips and also economical cruises to see the Antarctic Peninsula, Falkland Islands, South Georgia and the Ross Sea. There are lots of different itineraries available with most trips departing from November to March.
Find your perfect Antarctic tour today by checking out our featured top rated holidays below. Rather than listing hundreds of options, we have added what we consider to be the top 3 trips.
1. Antarctica Classic
• Duration: 11 days
• Start/Finish: Ushuaia to Ushuaia
• Price: From USD$9,699
The Antarctic Peninsula is anything but a world of white desolation. Join this true adventure and discover a world of immense scale and visual splendour. Passing huge icebergs in the flat calm of a polar morning will reshape the way you look at your world.
Encounter huge whales, enormous rookeries of penguins, and stunning landscapes few have ever witnessed. This 11-day expedition will introduce you to the magic of the South Shetland Islands and the Antarctic Peninsula.
2. Quest for the Antarctic Circle
Duration: 14 days
Start/Finish: Ushuaia to Ushuaia
Price: From USD$10,899
A massive rookery of penguins shuffles across a frozen shore; a pod of whales glides through frigid waters; dramatic landscapes float off in the distance — welcome to Antarctica. Join this voyage of discovery to our planet’s last frontier — a mysterious and virtually pristine paradise.
The ice-strengthened expedition ship is ideally suited to cruising this icy wilderness, and her expert staff are on hand to ensure you’ll fully appreciate all the majesty you encounter. Sail the Drake Passage past the South Shetland Islands, then really explore the western coast of the Antarctic Peninsula.
Prepare yourself for an adventure like no other — more like a private expedition than a traditional cruise.
3. Spirit of Shackleton
Duration: 21 days
Start/Finish: Ushuaia to Ushuaia
Price: From USD$23,899
Experience vast penguin rookeries and seal colonies on this awe-inspiring voyage to Antarctica, South Georgia, and the Falkland Islands. This 21-day voyage illuminates Ernest Shackleton’s legend and recounts his courageous exploration of Antarctica.
You’ll visit historical sites of past explorers, as well as Shackleton’s final resting place — the wildlife-rich island of South Georgia. Antarctica is beyond comprehension and sure to amaze any traveller seeking a true adventure to the world’s most remote wilderness.
Travel to Antarctica FAQ
Best Time of Year to Visit Antarctica
The main season for travelling to Antarctica is from October to March, with January and February regarded as the best months for weather and also chances of seeing wildlife. Booking in-advance is essential as spaces on boats fill up quick.
How to Get There
Most cruises depart from Ushuaia, Argentina or Punta Arenas, Chile. Some operators include flights in the overall cost, whilst others you will be required to book this yourself. If you also want to include the Ross Sea in your itinerary, ships generally depart from New Zealand and South Africa.
Ships
You can book to travel on small expedition ships, luxury cruise ships or even book flying/cruise combination trips.
Duration
Every trip is unique and operates different schedules. Most trips to the Antarctic Peninsula last a minimum of 6 days if flying, or 10 days if departing by boat from Ushuaia. The distances involved in going to Antarctica are huge. If you also wanted to include the Ross Sea, Falkland Islands and South Georgia you will need at least 18 – 30 days.
Activities
You can choose between sightseeing onboard the ship, to actually going to step foot on Antarctica. Some companies offer boat excursions, sea kayaking, walking tours, hiking trips, skiing and even camping trips in Antarctica!
Wildlife
Animals you might get to see include penguins, seals & whales.
Tour Guides
You will get information and advice from onboard tour guides who will be able to tell you more about the history, nature and wildlife of Antarctica.
Weather
The weather in both Patagonia and Antarctica can be unpredictable and extreme. This can have impacts on both flights and sea itineraries, which can be subject to change depending on the weather. If you suffer from motion sickness you might want to pack medication for when going through rough seas.
Cost
Are you wondering how much does a trip to Antarctica cost? Cruises aren’t cheap, the average cost is around US$10000. The final cost really depends on the travel operator, ship, itinerary and level of comfort.
Some longer trips can cost around $20,000. Generally trips departing for a round trip from Ushuaia are the cheapest way to experience Antarctica. There are lots of ways to save money. Try to book as far in-advance as possible, or last minute to get the best deals.
Book Your Trip to Antarctica
Hopefully our guide has inspired you to travel to Antarctica, discover this spectacular region for yourself. This really is one of the best world adventures. Also be sure to check out some articles including things you probably don’t know about Antarctica.
