If you\u2019re planning on going on the world\u2019s most epic bucket list adventure by booking an Antarctica cruise there\u2019s a few things you need to know first. In our ultimate guide we draw on our personal experience from multiple trips to share the how, who, when and why of travelling on a cruise to Antarctica!<\/u><\/em><\/strong><\/p>\n Whether you\u2019re ready to book, doing more research or simply interested in the idea of visiting Antarctica<\/a>, there\u2019s some very important things you need to know before dropping your hard-earned money on an expedition to the 7th continent.<\/p>\n We\u2019ve been travelling and working in Antarctica since 2017, first as photographers and content creators, then as tour guides taking our own groups to this beautiful part of the world.<\/p>\n Now we work as expedition photographers for a number of different companies.<\/p>\n One thing we\u2019ve discovered over the years is that no two Antarctic expeditions are the same \u2013 both in experience, and in service.<\/p>\n A quick Google will show that there are over 100 operators registered to IAATO, the International Association of Antarctica Tour Operators, to run trips down here, and then there are a handful of private enterprises and sailers that visit each year as well.<\/p>\n So how do you know which operator to book with? What time of year should you go? Why are some companies more expensive than others? And with so many different itineraries now available, which one should you choose?<\/p>\n That\u2019s what we have set out to answer for you in this comprehensive guide.<\/p>\n By the end of this article you will have a great understanding of the differences between the best Antarctica cruises and which companies we recommend based on personal experience and intimate industry knowledge.<\/p>\n Ready to embark on the journey of a lifetime? Let\u2019s dive into it!<\/p>\n READ MORE: Dive deep into our complete guide on travelling to Antarctica<\/a>!<\/strong><\/p>\n All commercial operators that run trips to Antarctica during the Southern Hemisphere\u2019s spring and summer months, stretching from late October to March, with the majority being between November and February.<\/p>\n Each month offers travellers a very different experience.<\/p>\n In November, as the continent emerges from its icy slumber, voyagers are greeted with pristine and untouched snowy landscapes.<\/p>\n Antarctica is at its most beautiful, but it also brings challenges for expedition teams due to weather, sea ice and snow density, meaning some landings might not be possible.<\/p>\n December and January are the peak months of the Antarctic summer, with the warmest temperatures (sometimes never dropping below freezing except at night), very long daylight hours, and the heartwarming sight of penguins nurturing their freshly hatched chicks.<\/p>\n It\u2019s also the busiest time of year though on the Peninsula.<\/p>\n As the season progresses into February and March, the continent witnesses the awe-inspiring migrations of thousands of humpback whales and penguins shedding their feathers in the molting season.<\/p>\n The Peninsula might look it\u2019s \u2018dirtiest\u2019 though, with much of the ground snow melted.<\/p>\n While the scenery is mesmerising throughout, the choice of month can tailor very different wildlife encounters and unique experiences.<\/p>\n We\u2019ve written another full guide on the best time to visit Antarctica<\/a>, but personally we prefer to travel early season (November) for landscapes and penguins, and late season (February and March) for whales.<\/p>\n After our very successful tour to Antarctica this season, we are going to be running another exclusive adventure down to the Peninsula in 2025, this time crossing the Antarctic Circle! Check out the tour page<\/a> if you\u2019d like to learn more.<\/span><\/p>\n Unfortunately tourists cannot visit Antarctica in winter due to the extremely cold weather and huge congestion in sea ice limiting access.<\/p>\n There are a variety of different itineraries that are available to book for cruises to Antarctica.<\/p>\n Depending on your style, budget, interests and length of time available you\u2019ll find some trips that are common (for good reason), and others that are very unique and only happen once every few years.<\/p>\n Here are the main Antarctic cruise itineraries you can book.<\/p>\n The most common itinerary to Antarctica is a trip to the Antarctic Peninsula, most often departing from the port of Ushuaia in Argentina, at the very southern tip of South America.<\/p>\n These trips usually take around 10-12 days, with 5-7 days spent on the western side of the Antarctic Peninsula (the rest of the days are travelling over the Drake Passage), and no two trips are the same.<\/p>\n Some of the main destinations that you might visit on an Antarctic Peninsula cruise are:<\/p>\n Just because it\u2019s the most common tour doesn\u2019t mean it\u2019s not worth doing. A Peninsula trip is truly mind-blowing, and allows you to officially step foot on the 7th continent.<\/p>\n When researching Antarctic Peninsula cruises you\u2019ll probably see that the majority of the itineraries sail across the Drake Passage<\/a>, the infamous stretch of sea between South America and Antarctica, while a couple fly over the Drake to King George Island.<\/p>\n Many people are worried about the Drake Passage, which is understandable \u2013 it has the reputation for being the roughest sea in the world.<\/p>\n But one thing to keep in mind is that you\u2019re not sailing to Antarctica in a little boat. You\u2019re on a large expedition ship which is designed to handle much worse conditions than the Drake.<\/p>\n Seasickness might be a concern, but there\u2019s medication to help with that and every trip has a doctor onboard.<\/p>\n The alternative is to fly the Drake from Punta Arenas in Chile, and while this is very tempting (it saves 4 days of travel and no rough seas to cross), there\u2019s one very important thing to keep in mind:<\/p>\n Weather at King George Island<\/a> is very unpredictable, and with just one scheduled flight a day allowed, cancellations do occur.<\/p>\n Visibility needs to be very clear down there and the right direction of wind for the pilots to land safely. If they don\u2019t think they can land safely, they won\u2019t depart Chile.<\/p>\n If your flight to Antarctica is cancelled on one day, the company usually has only one more attempt to get their guests down there before they have to forfeit their spot for the next company\u2019s charter.<\/p>\n So if you\u2019re unlucky and just so happen to get two days of bad weather in either Punta Arenas or Antarctica during your scheduled days of departure, your entire trip can be cancelled.<\/p>\n Aurora Expeditions alleviates this by hosting longer itineraries for their \u2018Fly the Drake\u2019 voyages, which maximises your chances of touching down in Antarctica \u2013 and if the weather is good, you get much more time down there than most departures.<\/p>\n For that reason we recommend sailing the Drake Passage to Antarctica<\/strong> unless you are 10% positive that you mentally cannot handle the sea crossing, or have your heart set on a particular itinerary with more time down on the Peninsula.<\/p>\n Plus if you do cross the Drake by sea you get that added sense of achievement.<\/p>\n If stepping foot on the Antarctic continent isn\u2019t enough, you can become one of the 0.001% of the human population who will ever cross the fabled Antarctic Circle at 66\u00ba southern latitude.<\/p>\n A few companies offer Antarctica tours that aim to cross the Circle (we say aim because nothing is guaranteed down here), and these itineraries are usually around 14 days (with 7-10 days on the Peninsula).<\/p>\n One thing to note is that there isn\u2019t really anything \u2018different\u2019 once you cross the circle \u2013 the landscapes and wildlife are more or less same.<\/p>\n But you get more time in Antarctica, and get to venture to one of the most remote places on the planet.<\/p>\n Read more about Danco Island, Antarctica<\/a>. <\/strong><\/p>\n Some Antarctica tours go to the eastern side of the Peninsula and enter the Weddell Sea, which promises a different experience again and is not often visited by travellers.<\/p>\n There\u2019s a lot of fascinating history in the Weddell Sea, especially around Sir Ernest Shackleton<\/a> and his legendary tale of survival from the Endurance with his crew, so if this is of interest it\u2019s worth looking for an itinerary that follows this path.<\/p>\n One unique tour that\u2019s popped up recently, and has been pioneered by Quark Expeditions and now also offered by Ponant, is a trip to the emperor penguins of Snow Hill<\/a>.<\/p>\n This trip is only offered once every couple of years in the early season (October) and requires either an icebreaker ship or a Class 1A ice-strengthened ship with helicopters, which allows guests to get close to the emperor penguin colony.<\/p>\n It\u2019s known as one of the world\u2019s greatest wildlife experiences, and has the price to match.<\/p>\n We\u2019ve never personally done this but hope to one day.<\/p>\n The Falkland Islands, or Isla Malvinas, is a truly spectacular archipelago about 1.5 days cruising from Ushuaia.<\/p>\n You\u2019ll find some fantastic itineraries that include Falkland Islands, either as part of the trio (below), or sometimes starting in the Falkland Islands.<\/p>\n If you love British history, or just want something a little different, it\u2019s worth looking at an itinerary that includes the Falklands.<\/p>\n The wildlife here, while not as dense as South Georgia, is especially fascinating for birdlife like albatross.<\/p>\n Known as the Serengeti of the Southern Ocean, South Georgia<\/a> is one of the most incredible wildlife destinations on the planet.<\/p>\n Boasting dramatic mountains, huge glaciers and beaches filled with hundreds of thousands of king penguins, elephant seals and fur seals, it really is a sensory overload and we\u2019ve seen quite a few people shed a tear when they\u2019ve seen Salisbury Plain or St Andrews Bay for the first time.<\/p>\n In all honesty, as amazing as Antarctica is, most people who visit South Georgia end up saying that this spectacular island is their real highlight of the trip.<\/p>\n There are a few itineraries that only visit South Georgia (usually after flying into Stanley in the Falkland Islands), but the majority will either include the Peninsula and possibly the Falklands.<\/p>\n Adding on South Georgia adds significant expense to an Antarctic trip due to how remote it is, but it is 100% worth it.<\/p>\n Check out our guide on the best time to visit South Georgia<\/a> based on our personal experience.<\/p>\n Considered to be the pinnacle of best Antarctic tours is a trip that includes the Antarctic Peninsula, South Georgia and the Falkland Islands, often referred to as the \u2018trio\u2019.<\/p>\n These itineraries are usually around 20 days long, with quite a few days spent at sea navigating between each destination, so if you can find a longer itinerary that includes more days at each place it\u2019s worth exploring.<\/p>\n This is the Antarctic cruise itinerary we most recommend.<\/strong><\/p>\n Our own group tour on the trio<\/a> includes the most amount of days in each location available.<\/p>\n An Antarctic cruise to the Ross Sea from either New Zealand or Australia<\/a> is a very rare occurrence, with only a small number of companies making the journey, and is usually booked by people who have been to the Peninsula before and want to see a different side of the continent.<\/p>\n A trip to the Ross Sea involves a lot of sea days and can be very expensive, but they visit very important research bases, follow the explorers Mawson and Shackleton\u2019s history and includes penguin colonies not often seen, or located on the Macquarie Islands in the Subantarctic.<\/p>\n Heritage Expeditions is one such operator that runs two trips a year to the Ross Sea, via the Subantarctic Islands.<\/p>\n As of 2025 Aurora Expeditions, the award-winning Australian polar company, will be returning to the Eastern side of Antarctica from Hobart on their newest X-Bow ship, the Douglas Mawson.<\/p>\n CEO Michael Heath says, \u201cWe are equally delighted to be offering passengers new itineraries departing from Australia as part of the ship\u2019s inaugural season, including an exploration of Mawson\u2019s Antarctica, which will visit Mawson\u2019s Huts at Cape Denison, Commonwealth Bay, and New Zealand\u2019s Subantarctic Islands.<\/em><\/p>\n \u201cAE Expeditions has pioneered expedition travel to the world\u2019s most remote places for more than three decades, and we know that exploration is not just about what you see, but how you see it.<\/em><\/p>\n \u201cThat is why we are committed to delivering life changing experiences with the newest, most advanced technology available, and with the most experienced and passionate team in the industry,\u201d <\/em>he added.<\/p>\n Choosing the right Antarctic cruise is essential for crafting an unforgettable polar experience.<\/p>\n This remote, icy frontier promises unparalleled adventures and sights, but the vast array of cruise options available can be overwhelming.<\/p>\n From the more than 100 different companies that operate down there, different ship sizes and amenities and of course the nuances of itineraries and activities, every detail plays a big part in shaping your journey.<\/p>\n With such a significant investment of time, money, and anticipation, it\u2019s crucial to make informed decisions.<\/p>\n As you dream of gliding past enormous tabular icebergs and observing wildlife in its purest habitat, here are our best tips to ensure you select the right Antarctic cruise and best Antarctica tour company that aligns perfectly with your expectations and desires.<\/p>\n With more than 100 operators running trips to Antarctica it\u2019s very easy to be overwhelmed with who to go with.<\/p>\n And if you ask for opinions from a travel agent, they\u2019ll just tell you the one that either a) pays them the most commission or b) is going to offer them a free trip if they sell X number of spots.<\/p>\n Then if you ask in one of the popular Facebook groups, the answer will almost inevitably be whichever company that particular person went with, and they have nobody else to compare them to.<\/p>\n We\u2019ve travelled with a whole variety of polar operators, and here\u2019s our top 5 recommendations and why.<\/p>\n Canadian company Quark Expeditions<\/a> is one of the true pioneers in polar adventures.<\/p>\n Established in 1991, this trailblazing company has spent decades perfecting the art of delivering unparalleled experiences in the planet\u2019s most remote regions.<\/p>\n They were the the first to organise trips to Snow Hill and revolutionised North Pole tours, so they\u2019re always looking for what\u2019s next in the world of polar voyages.<\/p>\n Quark has an impeccable safety record<\/a> and has a fleet of ice-class vessels, including the new, luxurious MV Ultramarine<\/a>, which allows them to execute really unique itineraries.<\/p>\n All of their ships have under 200 passengers too, meeting IAATO regulations for number of people off the ship at any one time.<\/p>\n We now work as expedition guides for Quark Expeditions, and Jarryd is one of the photography guides running their new Photography Program as of the 2026\/27 Antarctic season, and could not be more happy with the quality of the company.<\/p>\n EXCLUSIVE \u2013 We have partnered with the world\u2019s top polar tour operator, Quark Expeditions, to offer readers of NOMADasaurus a very special deal on any trip to Antarctica or the Arctic! Contact us (hello@nomadasaurus.com<\/a>) if you\u2019d like to learn more about these exclusive discounts.<\/span><\/p>\n US-based Polar Latitudes has built its reputation on keeping things genuinely small. Their fleet \u2014 the Discoverer, Ocean Albatros, Ocean Victory and Ocean Nova \u2014 never carries more than 180 passengers, and several of their charters run well under that.<\/p>\n Rather than chasing scale, Polar Latitudes leans into intimacy: fewer guests off the ship means faster Zodiac boarding, more one-on-one time with the expedition and photography teams, and less of that \u201clabyrinth\u201d feeling you get on the bigger vessels.<\/p>\n Their ships are purpose-built or purpose-refitted for polar work, with ice ratings that hold up in the areas that turn lesser ships away.<\/p>\n The onboard experience skews toward comfortable rather than ultra-luxury \u2013 think well-appointed suites and a strong expedition program, rather than helicopters and submarines.<\/p>\n Polar Latitudes is a solid pick for travellers who want a genuinely small-ship experience without stretching to the very top of the price bracket, and who\u2019d rather have a real relationship with their guiding team than a longer amenities list.<\/p>\n One of the most famous names in polar travel, Hurtigruten<\/a>, hailing from Norway and originally started as a ferry company, offers excellent budget-friendly trips to the Antarctic and Arctic.<\/p>\n Their itineraries are fantastic and the service for guests is excellent. They also have an excellent onboard science program.<\/p>\n However<\/strong>, their ships are very large, with between 250 and 500 passengers on each trip, meaning your actual time spent off the ship is limited.<\/p>\n If price is a major factor for you they are a good option and they do have a great product, but the size of their ships is something to consider. Remember, in Antarctica, bigger isn\u2019t better.<\/p>\n Lindblad Expeditions is the closest thing the polar industry has to old money. Partnered with National Geographic since 2004 (an alliance recently extended through 2040), Lindblad has been running expedition travel for over 55 years, and it shows in the level of onboard science and storytelling they deliver.<\/p>\n Their Antarctic fleet centres on the National Geographic Endurance and her sister ship, National Geographic Resolution \u2014 both purpose-built, X-Bow expedition vessels with a PC5 Category A ice class, the highest rating in the industry for ships this size.<\/p>\n Passenger numbers sit around 126-138, comfortably under the 200-pax cutoff that matters so much down here.<\/p>\n Their trips lean towards an older, more affluent demographic, and the price point reflects that \u2014 Lindblad sits at the premium end, similar to Ponant.<\/p>\n What you get in return is a genuinely exceptional expedition team, deep-rooted NatGeo science programming (embedded photographers, naturalists and researchers as standard, not an add-on), and some of the newest, most capable ice-class ships operating in Antarctica today.<\/p>\n The average age onboard tends to be noticeably higher than something like Polar Latitudes, so it\u2019s a very different atmosphere \u2014 more refined, less backpacker energy. Neither is better or worse, just something to factor into your decision.<\/p>\n Something to note here \u2013 you do really pay a premium to travel with Lindblad, based purely on the \u2018National Geographic\u2019 branding.<\/p>\n They\u2019re not better than any of the operators just because it\u2019s linked to NatGeo, although we do consider them on-par with Quark in terms of quality. <\/p>\n Scenic<\/a> is an old hand in the luxury river cruise industry, they have since branched out into polar tours and are doing an amazing job at it with their beautiful ships and brilliant expedition team.<\/p>\n They have some pretty unique offerings, including a submarine that you can book for seeing Antarctica beneath the surface, and really fun activities.<\/p>\n Many of our expedition guide friends are now working at Scenic as well, and we can vouch for just how good they all are.<\/p>\n Of course that\u2019s just scratching the surface and there is plenty of other operators out there. These are some others worth considering:<\/p>\n You might be tempted to book a tour onboard a larger cruise ship for a number of reasons.<\/p>\n More space and amenities, cheaper price, familiarity with a particular company such as Carnival, etc.<\/p>\n But trust us when we say bigger is not bigger in Antarctica!<\/strong><\/p>\n IAATO<\/a>, the body that regulates tourism in Antarctica, has strict rules around the number of passengers from any one ship that can leave the vessel at any one time.<\/p>\n They are:<\/p>\n So as you can see if you are booking a trip to Antarctica on a large ship, you run the risk of not even getting off the ship.<\/p>\n You don\u2019t really want to spend all that money just to get down there and look at the continent from your balcony.<\/p>\n For that reason we don\u2019t recommend booking a trip on a vessel that carries any more than 200 people total, and ideally less than 100 people if you can find one.<\/p>\n Let us say that again;<\/p>\n DO NOT BOOK A TRIP WITH MORE THAN 200 PASSENGERS!<\/span><\/strong><\/p>\n Besides that, there\u2019s other considerations when it comes to ship size and choosing the best Antarctica expedition.<\/p>\n Smaller ships have much better manoeuvrability, which allows them to navigate through narrow channels and into tight bays to allow you to access Antarctica close up.<\/p>\n A smaller ship often means a shallower draft too, so they can get into some areas that may not be deep enough for larger vessels.<\/p>\n This might not be something you think about, but when you book a smaller ship you have a greater sense of intimacy with your fellow guests and expedition team.<\/p>\n There is often just the one dining room and one, maybe two, lounges to relax in. That means everybody congregates in the same areas and it doesn\u2019t take long to start getting to know everybody.<\/p>\n The larger ships can feel like a labyrinth, and we\u2019ve heard of people going entire expeditions and not ever finding the library for example.<\/p>\n Personally, we prefer smaller ships.<\/p>\n Heading off on an Antarctic adventure is both a dream and a significant financial undertaking.<\/p>\n With such a wide variety of cruise options, ranging from small, older vessels to high-end luxury ships, it can be hard to determine what is worth spending your money on.<\/p>\n At the budget-friendly end, less extravagant ships may lack the luxurious amenities, but they often deliver an authentic, intimate connection with the Antarctic wilderness.<\/p>\n These ships focus on the adventure and Antarctica expedition with an authentic flare, where you feel encouraged to be out on deck or in the lounge areas when you\u2019re onboard rather than sprawled out in your cabin.<\/p>\n On the other hand, luxury cruises offer plush accommodations, gourmet dining, spa services, and even onboard entertainment.<\/p>\n Some of them even have helicopters and submarines onboard, opening up a whole new world that isn\u2019t possible with other operators.<\/p>\n While these amenities come at a premium, it ensures an unparalleled level of comfort amidst a wild Antarctic backdrop.<\/p>\n Essentially, you get what you pay for when it comes to the ship; the more you pay, the nicer the onboard experience.<\/p>\n So how much should you expect to pay for a cruise to Antarctica?<\/p>\n On average, USD$10,000 per person for the standard itinerary, and around USD$18,000 for a trip that includes the Falkland Islands and South Georgia.<\/strong><\/p>\n Of course you can sometimes find trips for as long as USD$5,000 per person if you book it super last minute on a special deal, and ones as expensive as USD$50,000 or more.<\/p>\n However when you look at the individual itineraries for different operators, you might notice something interesting\u2026<\/p>\n They are often the exact same, whether you\u2019re playing $8,000 or $20,000.<\/p>\n A typical 10-day \u2018Best of Antarctica\u2019 itinerary, which actually only includes 4.5 days in Antarctica, has the same number of days and excursions on the continent, often doing the same thing (zodiac cruises, landings, ship exploring, etc).<\/p>\n Adventure activities, such as kayaking, stand-up paddle-boarding and camping, usually have an additional cost no matter which company you\u2019re with too.<\/p>\n So really, in most situations you\u2019re paying more money for a nicer ship and cabin.<\/p>\n There are exceptions of course, especially if your ship has helicopters.<\/p>\n But if the company you\u2019re looking at doesn\u2019t have any obvious benefits such as helicopters or more days at sea, most of the price increase is for better food and nicer rooms.<\/p>\n Is that worth it the difference in cost?<\/p>\n That\u2019s a question only you can answer.<\/p>\n Look further into Antarctica trip costs with our complete guide<\/a>!<\/p>\n Either way, it\u2019s paramount to really look into what\u2019s included in your package. Some voyages may seem very cheap upfront but then charge extra for essentials like shore excursions, gear rentals, or even certain onboard facilities.<\/p>\n All of the operators we recommend though include daily excursions, all meals and gear rental included, regardless of price and itinerary.<\/p>\n And if you have some flexibility in your travel plans, there\u2019s a big potential to lock in some remarkable last-minute deals.<\/p>\n Subscribe to the newsletters of Antarctic cruise operators or follow their social media channels to see what\u2019s available.<\/p>\n Or get in touch with us for the best price possible with our current favourite operator, Quark Expeditions, even better than what they advertise to the public.<\/p>\n The length of Antarctica cruises vary quite a bit, with options ranging from a week right up to an entire month.<\/p>\n The length of your voyage determines not only how much of Antarctica you get to explore but also how much time you spend on the open sea versus the continent itself.<\/p>\n The sweet spot is the classic 11-day itineraries, which just visits the Peninsula, but let us break down the general ones you\u2019ll find.<\/p>\n One thing to keep in mind though is that the length of time the companies advertise is not how much time you get to spend in Antarctica.<\/strong><\/p>\n For example an 11-day itinerary often means just 4-5 days in Antarctica, and the rest of the time is spent before the trip in Buenos Aires or Ushuaia and the two days each way on the Drake.<\/p>\n Misleading? Perhaps. But that\u2019s just what it is.<\/p>\n For those that are on a super tight schedule or really, really<\/em> don\u2019t want to cross the Drake, you can fly down to join your cruise to Antarctica.<\/p>\n You\u2019ll usually have one full day in Punta Arenas, Chile, then schedule to fly to King George Island the next day. Then you\u2019ll have 4 days on the ship, before flying back for another night in Punta Arenas.<\/p>\n This is the trip most people do.<\/p>\n You\u2019ll meet your group in Ushuaia on the first day, then jump on the ship the next day (or start in Buenos Aires and take a charter flight the next morning).<\/p>\n After that it\u2019s two days sailing across the Drake Passage, 4 days to explore Antarctica, then two days back to Ushuaia.<\/p>\n You wake up in Ushuaia and the trip either ends there for you, or you jump on a charter flight back to Buenos Aires.<\/p>\n Essentially the same structure as above, but you\u2019ll have an extra couple of days to travel the distance required to hopefully cross the Antarctic Circle, or sail around to the east side of the Peninsula to get into the Weddell Sea and maybe see the emperor penguins.<\/p>\n Our personal favourite length, as it ticks off all the major highlights.<\/p>\n Starting in Buenos Aires or Ushuaia, you then have one sea day to make it to Falkland Islands, then usually have two days exploring around the British archipelago.<\/p>\n Then it\u2019s two more days at sea to get to South Georgia, with 3 to 4 days spent visiting the most spectacular place on earth.<\/p>\n You\u2019ll then have a massive three sea days to get to the Peninsula for your 4 days hanging around here.<\/p>\n Then back across the Drake you go.<\/p>\n As above, but with a few extra days to cross the Antarctic Circle.<\/p>\n Basically the ultimate Antarctica trip.<\/p>\n If you have a month up your sleeve you can either take the historic Ross Sea trips from New Zealand or Tasmania, or be a real adventurer and jump on tall ship to sail down to Antarctica.<\/p>\n When you\u2019re heading down to the Antarctic region on an expedition cruise ship there\u2019s quite a few activities that you can do.<\/p>\n Some are included in the price for everybody, and others have limited availability for an additional cost.<\/p>\n Here\u2019s what you can expect for what to do in Antarctica<\/a>:<\/p>\n There are no ports in Antarctica that allows for a ship to dock, so the only way to get off the ship and explore land is on a small, inflatable boat called a Zodiac.<\/p>\n Zodiacs not only allow you to step food on land, but they also let you get up close to icebergs, glaciers, and wildlife.<\/p>\n Zodiac cruises offer an intimate and immersive experience, allowing passengers to navigate through stunning icy waterways.<\/p>\n The frequent Zodiac landings, integral to most Antarctic cruises, transport passengers from the ship to the very heart of the continent.<\/p>\n Setting foot on the Antarctic mainland, or one of its many islands, is an indescribable moment.<\/p>\n Zodiac excursions are included in most small ship cruises.<\/p>\n Once you\u2019ve used a zodiac to get to shore you have a few other included activities \u2013 landings and hiking.<\/p>\n You can wander around a predetermined path, set out by the expedition guides, to visit research stations and viewpoints, or get closer to penguin colonies.<\/p>\n Any decent company, like the ones we recommend above, will also have daily onboard seminars from guides, scientists, biologists and historians to share information about the continent.<\/p>\n They fill the sea days and evenings, and you shouldn\u2019t miss any.<\/p>\n If you want the ultimate bragging rights after your trip to Antarctica make sure you don\u2019t miss the polar plunge.<\/p>\n What is it? Well, it\u2019s going for a swim in Antarctica, of course.<\/p>\n You wander down the gangway, strap a harness and rope to you, and literally jump off a perfectly good (and warm) ship into the icy water.<\/p>\n It\u2019s included in most trips, weather permitting, and you\u2019ll get to come home with some cool photos to prove you did it.<\/p>\n Of course Antarctic wildlife watching is always free and included in your trip.<\/p>\n Some of the animals you could see are many penguin species such as gentoos, ad\u00e9lie penguins, Magellanic penguins, rockhoppers, chinstraps, king penguins, emperors (if you\u2019re super lucky) and macaronis.<\/p>\n You can see lots of whales too such as humpback whales, minke whales and orca (killer whales), and occasionally blue or southern right whales in the Southern Ocean.<\/p>\n Sea birds also make part of the abundant wildlife, with albatross, skuas, petrels and terns commonly found.<\/p>\n And if you like seals in their natural habitat, there\u2019s southern elephant seals, weddell seals, ross seals, leopard seals, crabeater seals and Antarctic fur seals.<\/p>\n Sorry, there\u2019s polar bears down here. You\u2019re thinking of the Arctic.<\/p>\n While almost all Antarctic cruises offer shore landings and Zodiac cruises as standard, there\u2019s a whole bunch of optional activities for those eager to try something different down in the continent.<\/p>\n If you\u2019re ready to step up the adventure, here\u2019s a guide on what\u2019s on offer and how to ensure you don\u2019t miss out.<\/p>\n Gliding silently through the icy waters, kayakers get an intimate perspective of Antarctica\u2019s coastlines.<\/p>\n As icebergs loom majestically overhead and seals laze on floating ice, you can navigate through a surreal world rarely experienced by others.<\/p>\n When you book a sea kayaking package you are given a dry suit and instruction from your experienced guides, and the goal is to get out as much as possible during your itinerary.<\/p>\n![\"Penguins](\"https:\/\/www.nomadasaurus.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/12\/Neko-Harbour-Penguins-with-Glacier-2-Intrepid-OE4-1-Jarryd-Salem.jpg\"\/)
![\"Penguins](\"https:\/\/www.nomadasaurus.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/12\/Neko-Harbour-Penguins-with-Glacier-2-Intrepid-OE4-1-Jarryd-Salem.jpg\")
When is the Best Time to Go on an Antarctica Cruise<\/span><\/h2>\n
Can You Travel to Antarctica in Winter?<\/span><\/h3>\n
![\"Zodiac](\"https:\/\/www.nomadasaurus.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/12\/Zodiac-Near-Big-Iceberg-Danco-Island.jpg\"\/)
![\"Zodiac](\"https:\/\/www.nomadasaurus.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/12\/Zodiac-Near-Big-Iceberg-Danco-Island.jpg\")
Antarctic Cruise Itineraries<\/span><\/h2>\n
Antarctic Peninsula<\/span><\/h3>\n
![\"Errera](\"https:\/\/www.nomadasaurus.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/12\/Errera-Channel-Golden-Sunset-Views-Intrepid-OE4-1-Jarryd-Salem.jpg\"\/)
![\"Errera](\"https:\/\/www.nomadasaurus.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/12\/Errera-Channel-Golden-Sunset-Views-Intrepid-OE4-1-Jarryd-Salem.jpg\")
Crossing the Drake Passage vs Flying the Drake Passage<\/span><\/h4>\n
![\"Great](\"https:\/\/www.nomadasaurus.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/12\/Southern-Giant-Petrel-Intrepid-OE4-1-Jarryd-Salem.jpg\"\/)
![\"Great](\"https:\/\/www.nomadasaurus.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/12\/Southern-Giant-Petrel-Intrepid-OE4-1-Jarryd-Salem.jpg\")
Crossing the Antarctic Circle<\/span><\/h3>\n
![\"Mushroom](\"https:\/\/www.nomadasaurus.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/12\/Antarctic-Mushroom-Danco-Island.jpg\"\/)
![\"Mushroom](\"https:\/\/www.nomadasaurus.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/12\/Antarctic-Mushroom-Danco-Island.jpg\")
The Weddell Sea and Snow Hill<\/span><\/h3>\n
![\"Adelie](\"https:\/\/www.nomadasaurus.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/12\/Group-of-Adelies-One-Standing-Paulet-Island.jpg\"\/)
![\"Adelie](\"https:\/\/www.nomadasaurus.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/12\/Group-of-Adelies-One-Standing-Paulet-Island.jpg\")
Falkland Islands (Islas Malvinas)<\/span><\/h3>\n
![\"Black](\"https:\/\/www.nomadasaurus.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/12\/Black-Browed-Albatros-Colony-West-Point-Falkland-Islands.jpg\"\/)
![\"Black](\"https:\/\/www.nomadasaurus.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/12\/Black-Browed-Albatros-Colony-West-Point-Falkland-Islands.jpg\")
South Georgia<\/span><\/h3>\n
![\"King](\"https:\/\/www.nomadasaurus.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/12\/King-Penguins-fill-Scene-St-Andrews-Bay.jpg\"\/)
![\"King](\"https:\/\/www.nomadasaurus.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/12\/King-Penguins-fill-Scene-St-Andrews-Bay.jpg\")
The \u2018Trio\u2019 \u2013 Antarctica, South Georgia and Falkland Islands<\/span><\/h3>\n
![\"Zodiac](\"https:\/\/www.nomadasaurus.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/12\/Cuverville-Island-Zodiac-Cruising-Intrepid-OE4-2-Jarryd-Salem.jpg\"\/)
![\"Zodiac](\"https:\/\/www.nomadasaurus.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/12\/Cuverville-Island-Zodiac-Cruising-Intrepid-OE4-2-Jarryd-Salem.jpg\")
The Ross Sea from New Zealand or Australia<\/span><\/h3>\n
![\"Blue](\"https:\/\/www.nomadasaurus.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/12\/Cuverville-Island-Glistening-Iceberg-Intrepid-OE4-2-Jarryd-Salem.jpg\"\/)
![\"Blue](\"https:\/\/www.nomadasaurus.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/12\/Cuverville-Island-Glistening-Iceberg-Intrepid-OE4-2-Jarryd-Salem.jpg\")
<\/figure>\n<\/div>\nOur Best Tips for Choosing the Right Antarctica Expedition for You<\/span><\/h2>\n
The Best Antarctica Cruise Company \u2013 Our Recommendations<\/span><\/h3>\n
Quark Expeditions<\/span><\/h4>\n
![\"Ultramarine](\"https:\/\/www.nomadasaurus.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/01\/Ultramarine-and-Refugio-Hut-Petermann-Island.jpg\"\/)
![\"Ultramarine](\"https:\/\/www.nomadasaurus.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/01\/Ultramarine-and-Refugio-Hut-Petermann-Island.jpg\")
Polar Latitudes Expeditions<\/span><\/h4>\n
![\"Sylvia](\"https:\/\/www.nomadasaurus.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/01\/Sylvia-Earle-with-Penguins-St-Andrews-Bay-South-Georgia.jpg\"\/)
![\"Sylvia](\"https:\/\/www.nomadasaurus.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/01\/Sylvia-Earle-with-Penguins-St-Andrews-Bay-South-Georgia.jpg\")
Hurtigruten<\/span><\/h4>\n
Lindblad (National Geographic)<\/span><\/h4>\n
![\"Intrepid](\"https:\/\/www.nomadasaurus.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/12\/Neko-Harbour-Endeavour-in-Channel-OE4-1-Jarryd-Salem.jpg\"\/)
![\"Intrepid](\"https:\/\/www.nomadasaurus.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/12\/Neko-Harbour-Endeavour-in-Channel-OE4-1-Jarryd-Salem.jpg\")
Scenic<\/span><\/h4>\n
Other Operators<\/span><\/h4>\n
\n
![\"Akademik](\"https:\/\/www.nomadasaurus.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/12\/In-The-Lemaire-Channel.jpg\"\/)
![\"Akademik](\"https:\/\/www.nomadasaurus.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/12\/In-The-Lemaire-Channel.jpg\")
Ship Size Matters on Antarctica Cruises<\/span><\/h3>\n
\n
![\"People](\"https:\/\/www.nomadasaurus.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/12\/Neko-Harbour-People-Photographing-Penguins-2-OE4-1-Jarryd-Salem.jpg\"\/)
![\"People](\"https:\/\/www.nomadasaurus.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/12\/Neko-Harbour-People-Photographing-Penguins-2-OE4-1-Jarryd-Salem.jpg\")
Navigating Antarctic Waters<\/span><\/h4>\n
Intimacy<\/span><\/h4>\n
![\"Penguins](\"https:\/\/www.nomadasaurus.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/12\/Neko-Harbour-Penguin-Colony-OE4-1-Jarryd-Salem.jpg\"\/)
![\"Penguins](\"https:\/\/www.nomadasaurus.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/12\/Neko-Harbour-Penguin-Colony-OE4-1-Jarryd-Salem.jpg\")
<\/figure>\n<\/div>\nHow Much is a Cruise to Antarctica?<\/strong><\/span><\/h3>\n
![\"Penguins](\"https:\/\/www.nomadasaurus.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/12\/Penguins-on-Ice-Big-Glacier-Damoy-Point-2.jpg\"\/)
![\"Penguins](\"https:\/\/www.nomadasaurus.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/12\/Penguins-on-Ice-Big-Glacier-Damoy-Point-2.jpg\")
<\/figure>\n<\/div>\nDoes a More Expensive Trip Mean a Better Experience?<\/span><\/h4>\n
![\"Zodiac](\"https:\/\/www.nomadasaurus.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/12\/Cierva-Cove-Zodiac-Front-Big-Iceberg.jpg\"\/)
![\"Zodiac](\"https:\/\/www.nomadasaurus.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/12\/Cierva-Cove-Zodiac-Front-Big-Iceberg.jpg\")
<\/figure>\n<\/div>\nHow Long Should You Book to Visit Antarctica?<\/strong><\/span><\/h3>\n
7 Days \u2013 Express (Fly the Drake)<\/span><\/h4>\n
10\/11 Days \u2013 Classic Antarctic Peninsula<\/span><\/h4>\n
14 Days \u2013 Crossing the Antarctic Circle or Visit the Weddell Sea\/Snow Hill<\/span><\/h4>\n
20 Days \u2013 Falkland Islands, South Georgia Island and Antarctica<\/span><\/h4>\n
21-24 Days \u2013 Trio and Crossing the Circle<\/span><\/h4>\n
28 Days \u2013 Ross Sea or \u2018Sailing\u2019 to Antarctica on a Yacht<\/span><\/h4>\n
![\"Damoy](\"https:\/\/www.nomadasaurus.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/12\/Damoy-Point-Drone-Bay.jpg\"\/)
![\"Damoy](\"https:\/\/www.nomadasaurus.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/12\/Damoy-Point-Drone-Bay.jpg\")
<\/figure>\n<\/div>\nActivities and Excursions on Antarctica Trips<\/span><\/h2>\n
Zodiac Cruises<\/strong><\/span><\/h3>\n
Landings and Hiking<\/span><\/h3>\n
![\"Hiking](\"https:\/\/www.nomadasaurus.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/12\/Portal-Point-Guests-Walking-Up-Hill-Intrepid-OE4-2-Jarryd-Salem.jpg\"\/)
![\"Hiking](\"https:\/\/www.nomadasaurus.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/12\/Portal-Point-Guests-Walking-Up-Hill-Intrepid-OE4-2-Jarryd-Salem.jpg\")
Onboard Seminars<\/span><\/h3>\n
Polar Plunge<\/span><\/h3>\n
![\"Polar](\"https:\/\/www.nomadasaurus.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/12\/Paradise-Bay-Polar-Plunge-1-Intrepid-OE4-2-Jarryd-Salem.jpg\"\/)
![\"Polar](\"https:\/\/www.nomadasaurus.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/12\/Paradise-Bay-Polar-Plunge-1-Intrepid-OE4-2-Jarryd-Salem.jpg\")
Wildlife Watching<\/span><\/h3>\n
![\"Humpback](\"https:\/\/www.nomadasaurus.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/12\/Humpback-Whale-in-Ererra-Channel.jpg\"\/)
![\"Humpback](\"https:\/\/www.nomadasaurus.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/12\/Humpback-Whale-in-Ererra-Channel.jpg\")
Optional Activities on your Antarctic Cruises<\/span><\/h3>\n
Sea Kayaking<\/span><\/h4>\n
![\"Kayaks](\"https:\/\/www.nomadasaurus.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/12\/Errera-Channel-Zodiac-with-Kayaks-Intrepid-OE4-1-Jarryd-Salem.jpg\"\/)
![\"Kayaks](\"https:\/\/www.nomadasaurus.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/12\/Errera-Channel-Zodiac-with-Kayaks-Intrepid-OE4-1-Jarryd-Salem.jpg\")
<\/figure>\n<\/div>\n