Antarctica

How to Choose an Antarctic Cruise

Laura Pattara

Laura Pattara  |  13 May 2025

So you’ve finally decided to head off to the southernmost continent on earth—excellent choice! Now comes the tricky part: how to choose the best Antarctica cruise. At first glance, trips may seem similar, but once you start looking closely, you'll find a host of variables that can shape your experience. From routes and ships to cabins, inclusions, and travel dates, these are the key things to weigh up when you want to compare Antarctica cruises and choose the one that's truly right for you.

 

Here's what we'll cover in this guide:

  1. Antarctica Cruise Routes

  2. Choosing the Right Ship

  3. When’s the Best Time to Visit Antarctica?

  4. How Long Should Your Antarctica Cruise Be?

  5. What’s Included in an Antarctica Cruise?

  6. Final Tips for Choosing the Best Antarctica Cruise

 

 

> Click HERE to see All Antarctica Cruises 

 

Antarctica Cruise Routes

When choosing the best Antarctica cruise, your route plays perhaps the biggest role in shaping your experience. While every voyage is extraordinary in its own right, the destinations vary quite a bit—each with its own highlights and a few trade-offs worth knowing about.

Here are the main Antarctic destinations you can visit.

how to choose an Antarctic destinations

Let’s start with the most popular route: from Ushuaia to the Antarctic Peninsula.

 

Antarctic Peninsula

This is the classic Antarctic experience and the most coveted—for good reason. Fantastic for first timers.

Pros

  • The shortest and most accessible route from South America

  • Breathtaking landscapes: towering glaciers, sculpted icebergs, and snow-covered peaks

  • Excellent chances to see Gentoo, chinstrap and Adélie penguins, plus leopard seals and humpbacks

  • The widest range of itineraries, ships, and budgets to choose from

  • More frequent landings due to calmer seas and shorter sailing distances

best Antarctica cruise group of gentoo penguin

Gentoo penguins and glacier with icebergs at Neko Harbour, Antarctica.

 

Considerations

  • Since it's the most visited part of Antarctica, you will likely encounter other ships, although they won’t be landing at the same spot at the right time.

  • Set sail towards the end of the season, and the most popular landing spots will be "well-trodden"

  • Wildlife is abundant but not as densely concentrated as in other places like South Georgia

  • Some trips focus only on the Peninsula, which may feel brief if you're after a longer adventure

 

>Click HERE to see all Antarctic Peninsula tours

 

South Georgia

Sometimes called the 'Serengeti of the Southern Ocean,' this remote island teems with wildlife. Expect jaw-dropping wildlife scenes and a rich whaling history. Widely considered the crown jewel of Antarctic cruising.

Pros

  • One of the most spectacular wildlife destinations on earth—dramatic scenery with rugged mountains and grassy shores

  • Home to hundreds of thousands of king penguins, elephant seals, fur seals, and seabirds.

  • Steeped in history—this is Shackleton country, with fascinating landing sites

compare Antarctica cruises and visit the colony of King penguin in South Georgia

Wildlife spotting in South Georgia – the best option for animal lovers

 

Considerations

  • Remote and isolated, South Georgia requires a longer itinerary—typically at least 16–23 days

  • Rougher seas en route, with several days at sea each way—read Tara’s Top Tips on Dealing with Seasickness

  • Comes at a higher price point, but most agree it's well worth it

 

The Falkland Islands

Quirky British heritage meets remote island wildlife. The Falklands are all about wildlife and windswept beauty. A remote destination best paired with South Georgia and the Peninsula.

Pros

  • Diverse penguin species, including rockhopper, Magellanic, Gentoo, and king penguins

  • Thriving birdlife and dramatic scenic coastlines

  • Unique cultural vibe with a fusion of British and South American influences

  • A chance to explore small towns like Stanley and interact with locals

best Antarctic ca cruise Black browed Albatross in Falkland Islands

Black-browed Albatross (Diomedea melanophris) at the Falkland Islands

 

Considerations

  • Less dramatic landscapes compared to Antarctica proper

  • Like South Georgia, itineraries including the Falklands are longer and often pricier

  • Wildlife watching is excellent but not quite as dense as in South Georgia

 

>Click HERE to see all South Georgia and Falklands tours 

 

Crossing the Antarctic Circle

A more in-depth, slightly longer journey. If you have the time, this is a bucket-list adventure like few others.

Pros

  • A more remote and less-visited region

  • A sense of exploration, solitude, and raw wilderness

  • Great opportunities to encounter sea ice and icy landscapes at their most extreme

  • A true bragging rights moment: few travellers make it this far!

how to choose an Antarctic destination, blue icebergs

Blue icebergs in Antarctica – the farther south you voyage, the more jaw-dropping the landscapes

 

Considerations

  • Limited landings due to heavier sea ice and longer distances

  • Itineraries are often weather-dependent and may need to be adjusted on the go

  • Limited departures per season, so you need to book early

 

 >Click HERE to see all Antarctica Circle tours

 

East Antarctica (from New Zealand/Australia)

Longer, more remote, and steeped in adventure, cruises from New Zealand or Australia appeal to those chasing that old-world explorer feel. Departing from Hobart, Invercargill or Bluff, these rare voyages retrace the routes of Antarctic legends like Mawson and Scott, covering far greater distances than South American itineraries. Expeditions like this one can be life-changing experiences.

Pros

  • Access to the Ross Sea—home to incredible biodiversity and rarely visited by travellers

  • Fascinating insight into the Heroic Age through historic explorer huts and research bases

  • A more profound sense of isolation and scale—perfect for those seeking true expedition spirit

compare Antarctic cruises and get an upclose encounter of Giant icebergs

Giant icebergs in the Ross Sea – East Antarctica expeditions are on a whole other level

 

Considerations

  • Itineraries are long (25–30+ days) and include extended stretches at sea

  • Departures are few each season, often more expensive, and require advance planning

  • Weather and sea ice can heavily influence daily plans and landing success

 

>Click HERE to see all Antarctica cruises departing Australia and New Zealand

 

Every route has its own rewards. If you're dreaming of wildlife in jaw-dropping numbers, South Georgia is a strong contender. Short on time or budget? A Peninsula-focused cruise still delivers an unforgettable Antarctic experience.

Still unsure how to choose the right cruise? Let’s take a look at vessels.

 

Choosing the Right Ship

Once you've settled on your destination, the ship is the next big decision. While all Antarctic vessels must meet strict safety and environmental standards, there's still a surprising amount of choice in size, style, and onboard atmosphere. Some ships are sleek and luxurious, while others lean toward the rugged expedition style. The choice isn't just about aesthetics—ship size and style can dictate how many landings you get, how comfortable your downtime feels, and how personalised your experience is.

how to choose the perfect antarctic cruise with MV Ushuaia

The MV Ushuaia exploring Antarctica

 

Here’s what to consider when you wish to compare Antarctica cruises.

Cabin Type: What’s Your Comfort Level?

When you compare Antarctica cruises, you'll find cabins vary more than you might expect—from compact berths to spacious suites with balconies that make you feel like you’re in a 5-star floating hotel. A premium cabin can make the experience feel extra memorable for those wanting more privacy or celebrating something special. Yet if you plan to spend most of your time exploring, a simple twin cabin may be all you need. Solo travellers can look for ships with dedicated single cabins or shared options to avoid high supplements. Some cruises waive the single supplement entirely, depending on the itinerary and departure—just ask us if you’re thinking of cruising Antarctica solo and we can point you in the right direction.

best Antarctica cruise cabin aboard the Ocean Albatros

Category A cabin aboard the Ocean Albatros

 

Passenger Numbers: How Ship Size Impacts Your Experience

The number of passengers on board affects not just the atmosphere but logistics, too. Antarctic regulations limit the number of people allowed ashore at one time, so ship size plays a huge role in how your landings work. Smaller ships (under 200 passengers) are often considered the sweet spot. They allow everyone to land at once, meaning more time on shore and a more immersive experience. Larger vessels may rotate guests in shifts or offer fewer landings overall—but they do often come with more facilities, like multiple lounges, wellness areas, and a broader dining offering. It’s essentially a trade-off between intimacy and amenities. 

how to choose a perfect Antarctic adventure is to cruise with small ship

The major benefit of choosing a smaller ship is that you can explore smaller inlets and landing spots larger vessels simply can't reach


 

Crew and Expedition Team: Who’s Guiding You?

The people leading your adventure matter as much as the places you visit. Expedition teams vary from ship to ship, with the best crews bringing deep polar expertise, infectious enthusiasm, and a genuine love for the region.

Look for ships with a strong guide-to-guest ratio, which allows for smaller group excursions and more personal interaction. Many ships also have onboard experts in glaciology, marine biology, or polar history who offer lectures and are out in the field with you, turning every excursion into a learning opportunity. 

best Antarctic cruise with amazing guide and activities

A thoughtful, experienced crew can transform your cruise from scenic to extraordinary.

 

Public Spaces: What’s Life Like Onboard?

After a morning navigating sea ice or watching penguins waddle past, it's wonderful to settle into a warm, inviting lounge or sip a coffee while the landscape drifts by. Some ships offer wraparound windows, outdoor decks for whale watching, lecture rooms, or even a sauna or hot tub. Yes, you read that right! Whether you prefer a quiet corner to read or somewhere to share stories with fellow travellers, the right public spaces can really add a whole new layer to your Antarctic adventure.

compare Antarctica cruises, Pool deck & Jacuzzi aboard the Ocean Albatros

Pool deck & Jacuzzi aboard the Ocean Albatros

 

 

When’s the Best Time to Visit Antarctica?

Antarctica’s season runs from late October to March. While the landscapes may look equally icy throughout, each part of the season offers something unique. The best time for your Antarctica cruise depends on what you're most excited to experience: pristine scenery and peak wildlife or quiet moments with fewer travellers around? Your choice!

 

October–November: Fresh Snow & First Arrivals

Early in the season, Antarctica feels untouched—snow is deep and clean, the light is dramatic, and only a few ships are out. Penguins return to nest and icy landscapes at their most pristine. 

Keep in mind: It's colder, wildlife is just arriving (no chicks yet), and sea ice may limit landings. But it's a magical time to go for photographers and those seeking stillness.

 

December–January: Wildlife in Full Swing

This is high summer and the most popular window for cruising. Expect long daylight hours, warmer temperatures, and loads of wildlife activity—penguin chicks hatching, seals on the beaches, and whales beginning to appear.

Keep in mind: It's the busiest and most expensive time to travel, so ships book up early. Still, this is hard to beat if you want peak wildlife and smoother conditions.

best Antarctica cruise, Emperor penguin chicks on the move

Emperor penguin chicks on the move

 

February–March: Whales, Chicks & Golden Light

Late season brings the best whale watching, more independent penguin chicks, and stunning sunsets. There’s a raw, wild energy in the air as the season winds down. 

Keep in mind: Some colonies begin to thin out, and conditions ashore can be muddier—but it’s quieter, and the wildlife action is still spectacular.

 

How Long Should Your Antarctica Cruise Be?

Cruise lengths range from just over a week to nearly a month. The best Antarctica cruise for you depends on how far you want to go and how much time you’re ready to spend at sea.

Shorter cruises (10–13 days) usually focus on the Antarctic Peninsula and offer a rich overview of landscapes and wildlife without needing weeks away. Many include the Drake Passage crossing for that classic expedition feel, while fly-cruise options skip the rough seas and maximise time on the ice. A short-and-sweet 12-day expedition is perfect for first-timers who are hesitant to cruise, but still want to experience Antarctica. Once they soak up a little of that magic, though, they often come back for more. 

Longer itineraries (16–23 days) delve deeper, reaching South Georgia, the Falklands, or the Antarctic Circle. These cruises build in more time for weather flexibility and allow for a fuller experience of the region’s wildlife, history, and wild remoteness. At the far end, East Antarctica expeditions from New Zealand or Australia run 25–30+ days and feel more like rare, remote, and deeply immersive historic voyages. Several continuous days at sea, an astronomical amount to learn and an experience unlike any other. If you set aside mainstream cruise ships, you'd be hard-pressed to find a longer expedition voyage anywhere in the world.

 

What’s Included in an Antarctica Cruise?

When you compare Antarctica cruises, it quickly becomes clear that not all trips are created equal. Inclusions can vary significantly—from flights and activities to gear and gratuities—so it's worth looking at what's covered (and what isn't) before making your final choice.

 

Flights and Transfers

Some itineraries include charter flights—especially on fly-cruise options that skip the Drake Passage and begin on King George Island. Others might require you to arrange your own flights to Ushuaia or Punta Arenas. Look carefully: charter flights can add significant value, and sometimes, they're only available as part of the cruise package.

Also, check for airport transfers and pre- or post-cruise hotel nights. Some ships bundle these in, while others leave you to organise your own connections.

compare Antarctic cruise experience between ship only or ship with heli

On a fly-cruise expedition, you’ll fly over the Drake Passage, land on King George Island and join a cruise ship from there

 

Activities

All Antarctic cruises include shore landings and Zodiac excursions, but beyond that, optional activities can vary greatly. Depending on your ship, you might be able to book:

  • Sea kayaking

  • Paddleboarding

  • Snowshoeing

  • Camping on the ice

  • Mountaineering

  • Photography workshops

  • Citizen science programs

Some cruises include one or more of these in the fare; others offer them as paid add-ons with limited spots. If you’ve got your heart set on a particular activity, book early and check whether gear is provided or needs to be rented separately. A cost-saving hack is to book a bareback cruise that doesn’t include any extras but offers them as optionals. This way, you’ll only ever pay for what you actually want to do.

 

 

Gear and Clothing

Most cruises will lend you sturdy, insulated rubber boots for shore landings. Some also include a branded parka to keep—and it's worth checking because a good-quality jacket is a considerable cost saver. Other ships expect you to come fully equipped, so look closely at packing lists and rental options, especially if you're travelling from afar.

Food and Drink

All cruises will include meals, snacks, tea and coffee—but not all include alcohol. Some luxury cruises include wine and beer with meals or offer an open bar, while others charge separately for all drinks beyond the basics.

Internet

Internet is generally available on most ships but varies in speed, availability, and price. A few operators include basic Wi-Fi, while others sell data packages—usually limited and expensive. If staying connected is essential, this is something to check in advance. That said, many travellers welcome the digital detox.

Other Touches

You may also want to look at things like:

  • Onboard lectures: Most cruises offer these, but the quality and frequency vary. Check reviews for specific mentions, as the best ones are usually praised

  • Medical support: All ships carry a doctor, but it's worth understanding what care is available onboard.

compare Antarctica cruises, leopard seal and emperor penguins

No matter where in Antarctica you go, you’re bound to have an unforgettable experience

 

 

Final Tips for Choosing the Best Antarctica Cruise

When you're down to choosing between two or three promising options, the small details often tip the balance. Here are a few final factors to keep in mind as you continue to compare Antarctica cruises:

  • Environmental Credentials: Look for ships that are members of IAATO (the International Association of Antarctica Tour Operators). This is how you know the operator adheres to responsible travel practices in such a fragile environment.

  • Language Onboard: Most cruises operate in English, but check ahead if you need another language. Some ships cater to multilingual guests with translation headsets or bilingual guides.

  • Health and Mobility: Landings can be physically demanding, although you don't need to be an athlete. If you have mobility concerns, speak to us about ships with easier access and more flexible landing options.

 

There’s a lot to weigh up when planning your Antarctic adventure—but you don’t have to figure it out alone. If you're unsure how to choose the right itinerary or want help comparing quotes, contact Viva’s Destination Specialists. We’ve been there, we know the ships, and we’re here to help you find the cruise that’s truly the best fit for you.

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