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Visit Antarctica On Viva's Antarctic Cruises

Cruising to the 7th continent is a must for animal lovers. Different cruises are available for a trip of a life time through spectacular white icy landscapes.

Visit Antarctica on one of our Antarctic Cruises. Explore the most comprehensive array of experiences to the southernmost continent.

This is a great opportunity to discover the Antarctic Peninsula, but it doesn't end there, other Islands like South Georgia or the Falklands also have a lot to offer. Our cruises give you the opportunity to visit new places every day, seeing new landscapes from when the sun rises, and having intimate wildlife encounters thanks to our land-based excursions.

About 90% of the ice on Earth is found in Antarctica. Due to the unique environment, Antarctica provides spectacular landscapes and natural phenomena. In addition, there is an incredible abundance of wildlife. The best-known animals living around this continent are whales, seals, penguins and other birds. It is a great opportunity to get up close with these funny species unafraid of humans. It is a precious place on Earth that not many people get to experience.

The Antarctica season runs from late October until late march.

Choose from our range of unique trips or contact us and we’ll be happy to tailor the perfect itinerary to suit your requirements.

Access the Ultimate Antarctica Guide HERE

FAQs

When is the best time to go to Antarctica?

The Antarctic cruising season starts late October and runs until March. These are the only months of the year when temperatures 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.

What do I need to bring to Antarctica?

Antarctica is an extreme environment and although Antarctic cruises depart during the spring and summer months, the weather can change dramatically, with no warning and so you need to be prepared for conditions in this harsh region.

  • A Parka, but don’t bring your own, it will be provided.
  • Waterproof boots and pants
  • Warm socks, gloves, scarf and a hat
  • Sunscreen, sunglasses
  • Zip lock plastic bags or dry sacks for carrying camera, batteries, etc. 

How many people will be on the ship?

It depends on the ship but the majority of our ships carry between 50 and 150 passengers. A few of the mega-yachts and purpose-built cruise ships carry around 250 passengers. 

What is there to do while on the ship?

Generally, the majority of ships have a lecture theatre, library, bar and restaurant, as well as the main deck. Some ships also have a gym, sauna or a small pool.

To help you prepare for what lies ahead, you are offered a series of lectures focusing on the geology, history and wildlife of Antarctica and the Southern Ocean.

You have the opportunity to interact with the crew and expedition team, or for the more adventurous, you can stand on deck taking in the spectacular scenery and wildlife, scanning the horizon for whales, seals and seabirds, or this can be done from the comfort of the lounges and observation decks.

What is the currency used in Antarctica?

There is no currency in Antarctica but the unit of currency in Argentina is the Argentinian Peso, the main currency at the Port Lockroy Post Office is the US dollar, the UK pond and euro are also accepted. All meals are included, alcohol, laundry and souvenirs need to be paid for separately, as well as gratuities and any drinks or snacks consumed outside of mealtimes. Most cruise ships accept euros and US dollar. Major credit cards, in particular Visa and MasterCard are also widely accepted on board. If the Falkland Islands are included on your cruise, the currency of the islands is the Falkland Islands pound (FK £), although the British pond is also accepted.

Type of food on Antarctic cruise ships?

Food on board is excellent, professional chefs prepare a wide selection of gourmet dishes. Breakfast and lunches tend to be buffet style, with 3, sometimes 4 courses served for dinners. 

Is there a laundry on board the ship?

Yes, a laundry service is available on every ship at a reasonable cost. 

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The Antarctic Peninsula

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Admire the wildlife

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Falklands Islands

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A popular archipelago to visit due to their stunning scenery, abundant wildlife (elephant, Weddell, and leopard seals, Adelie, chinstrap and gentoo penguins).and location enroute to Antarctica.

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Our Vessels
MV Plancius | Arctic & Antarctic Cruise Ship

108 Passengers
MV Ortelius | Arctic & Antarctic Cruise Ship

108 Passengers
MV Hondius | Arctic & Antarctic Cruise Ship

176 + 72 Staff & Crew Passengers
MS Fram

max. 318 Passengers
Ocean Endeavour | Antarctic Cruise Ship

200 Passengers
Ushuaia | Antarctic Cruise Ship

90 passengers and 38 staff Passengers
Ocean Diamond | Antarctic Cruise Ship

189 Passengers
World Explorer | Arctic & Antarctic Cruise Ship

125 Passengers
Ocean Adventurer | Arctic & Antarctic Cruise Ship

132 Passengers
Ultramarine | Antarctic & Arctic Cruise Ship

199 Passengers
Le Boréal

264 (200 in Antarctica) Passengers
Le Lyrial

260 (200 in Antarctica) Passengers
Heritage Adventurer

140 Passengers
Greg Mortimer | Arctic & Antarctic Cruise Ship

160 (120 in polar regions) Passengers
Sylvia Earle | Arctic & Antarctic Cruise Ship

138 Passengers
G Expedition | Antarctic & Arctic Cruise Ship

134 Passengers
Ocean Nova | Antarctic Cruise Ship

67 Passengers
Magellan Explorer | Antarctic Cruise Ship

75 fly cruise (100 maximum) Passengers
Ocean Adventurer

128 Passengers
MS Roald Amundsen

530 (500 in Antarctica) Passengers
Le Commandant Charcot

270 (200 in Antarctica) Passengers
L'Austral

264 (200 in Antarctica) Passengers
MS Seaventure | Antarctic Cruise Ship

139 - 149 Passengers
MS Fridtjof Nansen

500 in Antarctica (530) Passengers
Island Sky | Antarctic Cruise Ship

108 Passengers
Le Soleal

264 Passengers
Ocean Victory

186 Passengers
Ocean Albatros

193 Passengers