Discover the wonders of the White Continent on an expedition cruise to Antarctica: witness incredible wildlife and stunning landscapes, see penguins, whales, and icebergs, and explore the delicate polar beauty.
Discover the wonders of the White Continent on an expedition cruise to Antarctica: witness incredible wildlife and stunning landscapes, see penguins, whales, and icebergs, and explore the delicate polar beauty.
Antarctica, the southernmost continent on Earth, is a place unlike any other. Here, the sun never sets during summer and never rises during winter.
The landscape is dominated by ice and snow, with glaciers covering over 98% of the surface. Towering mountains, icebergs of all shapes and sizes, and vast frozen seas make for some jaw-dropping scenery.
About Antarctica
A lucky visitor could spot both endemic and migratory species, including seals, whales, and, of course, penguins — thriving in their natural habitat at the edge of the pack ice.
Antarctica is surrounded by the Southern Ocean, home to a diverse range of marine life.
About Antarctica
Most expedition cruise ships depart from Ushuaia, which is a short flight from Buenos Aires, the capital of Argentina. And then it’s a few days at sea to cross the infamous Drake Passage. There are also direct flights to Antarctica from Punta Arenas in Chile, South America.
Getting to Antarctica can seem challenging, but there are actually several options.
About Antarctica
Wildlife enthusiasts add South Georgia and the Falkland Islands to their bucket list, while avid explorers can venture farther into the Weddell Sea and the Ross Sea.
Cruises to Antarctica usually focus their itinerary on and around the Antarctic Peninsula.
Why travel to Antarctica?
The Antarctic nature is picture-perfect. The breathtaking scenery of the White Continent is dominated by ice in all forms: mountain caps, icebergs, and glaciers are everywhere you look. Against this unusual backdrop, wildlife roams free, almost as if putting on a show for visitors’ cameras.
During the summer season, Antarctica is under almost 24-hour daylight. Penguins are busy tending to their rookeries and diving for fish, seals rest peacefully on huge ice floes, and whales make spectacular jumps out of the water. Numerous seabirds add to the lively Antarctic sound.
Tourism in Antarctica is strictly regulated to protect its fragile ecosystem. Still, an Antarctic traveler gets to be more than just a mere observer: they can become a true explorer of this wilderness. Beyond the adventure, an Antarctic cruise is an opportunity to learn first-hand about the pristine polar regions, their history, and influence on the climate.
Travel to Antarctica with us on the Amazone or Eldorado sailing ship and cross Drake passage once or twice
Antarctica is home to a diverse range of wildlife that has adapted to the harsh conditions. Emperor penguins, one of the most iconic species in the world, can be found in large colonies throughout the White Continent. During Antarctic cruises, one is likely to see other penguin species: Adélie, Gentoo, Rockhopper, king penguins, and Magellanic penguins.
Minke wales, humpbacks, and killer whales frequent the frigid Antarctic waters. Above the surface, lounging on the ice, are seals and sea lions. Elephant seals, known for their massive size, prefer shores for breeding. Dependent on the abundance of marine wildlife, birds like albatrosses or terns can be spotted nearby. Despite popular belief, polar bears are not found in Antarctica, as they are native to the Arctic.
Antarctic wildlife
Antarctic experiences
Each day of an Antarctic cruise holds new adventures to be had and new discoveries to be made.
Landings and trips ashore allow travelers to explore the region’s hidden gems. Visiting historical sights with the expedition team provides a glimpse into the continent’s fascinating past. Seeing how scientists work on research stations is a look into the present times of living in Antarctica. And observing how life is born, whether it’s fluffy chick penguins or playful seal pups, is almost like a glimpse into the future.
Destination highlights
Main points
The Drake Passage
The Drake Passage can be considered as an initiation, the final challenge to overcome before seeing Antarctica. Any modern expedition ship is able to cross it, even when the seas are a bit rough. Taming the seas really brings the travelers and crew together, united before the forces of nature. Of course, you may also choose to fly over it instead.
Half Moon Island
Half Moon Island is a must-see Antarctica destination for an enthusiast birdwatcher. Located near the Antarctic Peninsula, this small crescent-shaped island hosts a large colony of chinstrap penguins, skuas, petrels, Antarctic terns, and other nesting birds. Stunning views of the surrounding glaciers and mountains add to the appeal.
Deception Island
Deception Island provides Antarctica cruise passengers with a natural harbor for ships. From the outside, it appears as a regular island, but a narrow entrance reveals its ‘deceptive’ ring-like nature of a flooded caldera. The volcano is believed to be active, although the last eruption happened in 1970. The island has a rich history as a former whaling station.
Port Lockroy
A polar base to the west of the Antarctic Peninsula, Port Lockroy offers a fascinating glimpse into Antarctic life, with exhibits on the history of exploration and current scientific research. Visitors can also send postcards from the southernmost post office in the world.
Lemaire Channel
The Lemaire Channel is a breathtaking passage with towering ice cliffs and narrow channels, perfect for ice cruising. Seabirds, humpback whales, and Minke whales also frequent these waters. Nicknamed ‘Kodak Gap’, it is one of the top destinations in Antarctica for the stunning photography opportunities it provides.
Cuverville Island
Cuverville Island is home to one of the largest colonies of Gentoo penguins in Antarctica, with over 7,000 breeding pairs. Visitors can also take in the stunning scenery of glaciers and snow-capped mountains, with icebergs drifting in the adjacent Errera Channel.
The Drake Passage
The Drake Passage can be considered as an initiation, the final challenge to overcome before seeing Antarctica. Any modern expedition ship is able to cross it, even when the seas are a bit rough. Taming the seas really brings the travelers and crew together, united before the forces of nature. Of course, you may also choose to fly over it instead.
Half Moon Island
Half Moon Island is a must-see Antarctica destination for an enthusiast birdwatcher. Located near the Antarctic Peninsula, this small crescent-shaped island hosts a large colony of chinstrap penguins, skuas, petrels, Antarctic terns, and other nesting birds. Stunning views of the surrounding glaciers and mountains add to the appeal.
Deception Island
Deception Island provides Antarctica cruise passengers with a natural harbor for ships. From the outside, it appears as a regular island, but a narrow entrance reveals its ‘deceptive’ ring-like nature of a flooded caldera. The volcano is believed to be active, although the last eruption happened in 1970. The island has a rich history as a former whaling station.
Port Lockroy
A polar base to the west of the Antarctic Peninsula, Port Lockroy offers a fascinating glimpse into Antarctic life, with exhibits on the history of exploration and current scientific research. Visitors can also send postcards from the southernmost post office in the world.
Lemaire Channel
The Lemaire Channel is a breathtaking passage with towering ice cliffs and narrow channels, perfect for ice cruising. Seabirds, humpback whales, and Minke whales also frequent these waters. Nicknamed ‘Kodak Gap’, it is one of the top destinations in Antarctica for the stunning photography opportunities it provides.
Cuverville Island
Cuverville Island is home to one of the largest colonies of Gentoo penguins in Antarctica, with over 7,000 breeding pairs. Visitors can also take in the stunning scenery of glaciers and snow-capped mountains, with icebergs drifting in the adjacent Errera Channel.
Millions of penguins and seabirds return to Antarctica for the start of their breeding season. There’s still plenty of snow and ice all around the frozen continent.
October – November
Best time to visit Antarctica
December – January
The warmest weather for a visit to Antarctica. Frenetic wildlife activity, including great numbers of whales feeding on krill, takes place near the Subantarctic islands.
February – March
Curious chick penguins, energetic seal pups, and cooperative whales in their prime months. Dramatic wildlife events make for amazing photo opportunities.
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Expeditions to Antarctica
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One of the hallmarks of a real Antarctic expedition is the ability to leave the ship, be it via Zodiac excursions or trips ashore.
During landings, travelers get to experience the pristine polar nature, wildlife breeding areas, and poignant historical sights. There’s rarely a dull moment to be had, with each day bringing along new unscripted adventures and spontaneous discoveries of Antarctica.
Zodiac excursions
Nature photography
Shore excursions
Visiting historical sights and Inuit villages
Wildlife watching
Lectures and workshops from the expedition team
Walking and hiking
Seamanship and sail handling
Antarctic regions
Antarctic Peninsula
The mountainous terrain of the Antarctic Peninsula is covered in permanent snow. Deep blue seas carry ice of every size and description, from gigantic blue icebergs to crackling brash ice. An expedition cruise itinerary here boasts numerous islands and bays. Attractions include a wide variety of wildlife, along with an overview of the region’s history of exploration and scientific research.
The Falkland Islands
The Falkland Islands are a British overseas territory in the Atlantic Ocean. Still, they are often included as an extension of an Antarctic Peninsula cruise. Rare bird species, an occasional penguin rookery, and accessible albatross colonies make the Falklands a perfect destination for bird lovers. The charming capital, Stanley, adds a nice touch of civilization, contrasting the rest of Antarctica.
Weddell Sea
South Georgia
Perhaps not as prominent a region as the Antarctic Peninsula, South Georgia, or the Falkland Islands, the Weddell Sea deserves to be mentioned as well. This large body of water located off the coast of Antarctica is home to a wide variety of marine life, including seals, whales, and penguins.
A remote Subantarctic island in the southern Atlantic Ocean, South Georgia is renowned for its staggering abundance of exotic wildlife. Penguin colonies, thousands in number, elephant seals, albatrosses, and other seabirds overcrowd the local shores. Travelers can hike through the rugged terrain to see abandoned whaling stations and visit the history museum at Grytviken, the largest settlement on South Georgia.
Antarctic Peninsula
The mountainous terrain of the Antarctic Peninsula is covered in permanent snow. Deep blue seas carry ice of every size and description, from gigantic blue icebergs to crackling brash ice. An expedition cruise itinerary here boasts numerous islands and bays. Attractions include a wide variety of wildlife, along with an overview of the region’s history of exploration and scientific research.
South Georgia
A remote Subantarctic island in the southern Atlantic Ocean, South Georgia is renowned for its staggering abundance of exotic wildlife. Penguin colonies, thousands in number, elephant seals, albatrosses, and other seabirds overcrowd the local shores. Travelers can hike through the rugged terrain to see abandoned whaling stations and visit the history museum at Grytviken, the largest settlement on South Georgia.
The Falkland Islands
The Falkland Islands are a British overseas territory in the Atlantic Ocean. Still, they are often included as an extension of an Antarctic Peninsula cruise. Rare bird species, an occasional penguin rookery, and accessible albatross colonies make the Falklands a perfect destination for bird lovers. The charming capital, Stanley, adds a nice touch of civilization, contrasting the rest of Antarctica.
Weddell Sea
Perhaps not as prominent a region as the Antarctic Peninsula, South Georgia, or the Falkland Islands, the Weddell Sea deserves to be mentioned as well. This large body of water located off the coast of Antarctica is home to a wide variety of marine life, including seals, whales, and penguins.
Expedition ships that go to ANTARCTICA
Eldorado
This two-masted schooner is perfectly ready for a polar voyage, featuring a strong main engine and all the necessary navigation equipment.
The silent generators, heating, air-conditioning, and six cozy double cabins ensure the comfort of passengers. Trainees coming aboard to reach the Arctic won’t be disappointed.
This two-masted schooner is perfectly ready for a polar voyage, featuring a strong main engine and all the necessary navigation equipment.
The silent generators, heating, air-conditioning, and six cozy double cabins ensure the comfort of passengers. Trainees coming aboard to reach the Arctic won’t be disappointed.
I’m travelling a lot since my childhood. I saw the geysers of Iceland, deserts of Mongolia, landscapes of “Lord of the Ring” in New Zealand, waterfalls of La Reunion, Bahá’í Gardens in Israel, lakes of Canada, bears of the Arctic, old timers on the roads of Cuba, volcanos of Kamchatka and many other fascinating places of the world. But the trip to Antarctic in February 2022 is difficult to exceed, actually impossible. Extraordinary experience with fantastic people on the sail boat. It is like a trip to another planet full of pinguins, seals, whales, dolphins and seabirds. As the backstage for them are the breathtaking landscapes of ice mountains and meditation peace. And as a company – small family of sailors, who shared with me the night shifts, ice swimming and pancakes (mmm, our cook – it is a separate topic:)) middle of the nowhere. And the worst thing about it – I wish to do it again even more, than I wished before (it was my dream since 20 years).
I'd like to share my impressions from an Antarctic sailing expedition in 2022. As I told my friends that I'd like to SAIL to Antarctica (and I don't have any licenses and only a very little sailing experience), there were 2 opinions, either "Oh, cool!!", or " You're crazy!!". Now I can say that both were right. It was a really cool, but a little bit crazy expedition. To sail through the Drake's passage – it's a unique experience! As a reward after 4 days you see the shore...
We could visit a several research stations, islands with penguin colonies, sea leopards and, of course, the whales. We were lucky to sail with a very professional crew - they made it possible to sail through the iceberg field. That made us feel to visit an other world in all shades of blue.
The night watch, the Southern Cross overhead, the rumble of glaciers crumbling in the dark and the whales puffing their fountains around you... It's an experience you probably won't get anywhere else.
It was a unique experience: I don't think there are too many people in the world who have ever travelled to Antarctica on a sailing ship. I think it is probably the most vivid and memorable experience of my life.
The cost of cruises to Antarctica can vary depending on the length of the trip, the level of luxury, and the specific itinerary. It can cost anywhere from $5,000 to $15,000 per person for an Antarctic Peninsula cruise. Some cruises may also include stops at other destinations such as South Georgia or the Falkland Islands, which can add to the overall cost.
One way to save on your trip to Antarctica would be to choose a smaller expedition ship. It would require fewer people for the expedition team, plus less supplies and equipment, which usually adds extra to the cost of traveling to Antarctica.
Cruising in Antarctica takes place from late October through March, when the austral summer floods the region with light and food. All season long, you’ll be able to see penguins, whales, and other wildlife in different phases of their breeding cycles
Antarctica cruises may be affected by extreme weather conditions and rough waters in the area. However, both a small ship and larger ships are able to handle the moderate ice and weather conditions of Antarctica, so there’s no need to worry
Visiting Antarctica is a once-in-a-lifetime experience that offers stunning views of the Antarctic landscape, unique wildlife encounters, and the opportunity to visit remote areas like South Georgia, with nature at its finest.
Since you’re likely to come to Antarctica during the summer in the Southern Hemisphere, the temperatures won’t be too cold. The coast of the Antarctic Peninsula will have temperatures of 0°C (32°F), so with the right clothing, you’ll stay warm.