Antarctica Cruises

The most affordable Antarctica cruises are 'Classic Routes' departing Ushuaia and visiting the Antarctic Peninsula for about 10-11 days. Antarctica cruises have been notoriously expensive for years, although more recently stiff competition among cruise companies has driven the overall price down considerably. The cost of a cruise to Antarctica depends on a few factors:

1) where you’d like to depart from

2) where in the Antarctica region you’d like to go (add South Georgia and the Falklands, for example, and the price increases)

3) when you’d like to set sail (pre, during or post the height of Antarctic cruising season?)

4) what kind of luxury level are you happy to pay for

5) how long you’d like to cruise

At Viva Expeditions, we keep our eyes firmly peeled on the ‘special deal fronts’, which include:

- early-bird sales

- last-minute deals

- special charters

- introductory deals on new vessels

Our Specials Page is constantly updated with new deals as they’re offered and do note that the list can cover all cruise itineraries: from classic routes to extended itineraries including South Georgia and the Falklands, Antarctic Circle cruises and plenty of Fly+Sail options, whereby you fly to King George Island, bypassing a crossing of the Drake Passage, and join a shorter cruise from there.

When it comes to mitigating costs, note that booking months in advance (both flights and cruises) can actually save you a neat bundle, often more than if you were to simply wait for a deal on the cruise alone. Moreover, know that being on one of the first or last voyages of the Antarctic cruise season can also slash the cost considerably, as the great majority of visitors head down over the Christmas break, making December and January the busiest and most expensive months of all. Early and late Antarctic cruises also offer unique advantages that go beyond savings – the former offering pristine landing sites with not a footstep to be seen and, the latter, sensational whale-watching galore.

The Antarctic cruising season starts in late October and runs until March (the austral summer). These are the only months of the year when expedition cruises travel to Antarctica. Temperatures at this time of year are known to reach above 0 degrees Celsius during the day on the Antarctic Peninsula, and though the east tends to be colder, it is still more tolerable at this time of the year. 

Weather in Antarctica is unpredictable, in addition to the cold temperatures, it is often windy as well.

• Knee high waterproof boots
• Waterproof pants
• Base Layers
• Warm socks
• Hat, gloves and scarf
• Sunscreen
• Everyday clothes to wear on board

Other gear;

• Camera
• Binoculars
• Backpack
• Waterproof camera
• Waterproof camera bag
• Sunglasses
• Seasickness medication
• Something to read 

No, special immunisations are not required when cruising to Antarctica. However, you can consult your doctor about taking a drug to combat sea-sickness, the sea can be quite rough between Ushuaia and Antarctica.

Although you cannot fly to the Antarctic Peninsula proper, there is an option to fly to the South Shetland Islands, a sub-Antarctic archipelago that floats off the peninsula’s northern coastline. The airport at King George Island offers fantastic Fly+Sail options for those who are short on time and/or just wish to bypass the Drake Passage. Simply board a plane in South America, fly to King George and board your cruise ship there.

You can choose to fly only once (and cruise the Drake once) or in both directions, depending on just how much time or Drake-apprehension you have. This fly+sail option is available on almost every route, whether you want to only sail around the Peninsula, had beyond the Polar Circle or visit the Falklands and South Georgia as well. Do note that Fly+Sail options are not available for cruises departing directly from New Zealand or Australia.

You can read more on our blog for advice from our Antarctic travel specialists on the advantages and disadvantages of flying to Antarctica.

Expedition cruises to Antarctica depart from various points along the southern coast of South America, with Ushuaia in Argentina being the most common starting point. Known as the "End of the World," Ushuaia is the prime gateway to the Antarctic Peninsula due to its proximity and established infrastructure for Antarctic expeditions. The port city offers the most extensive range of expedition ships of varying itineraries, comfort levels, and price points.

Other departure ports may include Punta Arenas in Chile or occasionally from from New Zealand or Australian ports for longer voyages. These departure points offer access to the Southern Ocean and provide embarkation for longer and more intense expedition cruises to Antarctica.

The best time to book an expedition cruise to Antarctica is typically several months and preferably up to a year in advance. Antarctic cruises operate during the southern summer, from November to March when temperatures are milder and wildlife is most active. Since these cruises are in high demand and have limited capacity in such a short travel season, booking early ensures availability. It also allows for more cabin selection and itinerary options. Early booking discounts and promotions are also standard.

However, if you have specific preferences or requirements, such as travelling during a particular holiday period or joining a special expedition cruise to Antarctica, a specific ship or a distinct itinerary, then it's advisable to book even further in advance to secure your spot.

Yes, the size of the ship can impact your overall experience on expedition cruises to Antarctica. At Viva, we specialise in small ship cruising by expedition vessels, as they can navigate into smaller, more remote areas, offering a more immersive and intimate experience. Smaller vessels also offer more flexibility in the itinerary and activities, allowing for closer wildlife encounters and off-the-beaten-path exploration.

It’s important to know that ships with more than 200 passengers are restricted from docking at certain sites in Antarctica, as outlined by the International Association of Antarctica Tour Operators (IAATO).