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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 laundry facilities onboard ships that go to Antarctica?

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

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Some of the main attractions

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Visit South Georgia

Experience the amazing wildlife where silence can only be broken by the call of the birds. Stroll through lively crowds of Penguins as you walk.

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The Antarctic Peninsula

Experience stunning landscapes, glaciers, volcanoes and unique wildlife in a snow-covered and unspoilt land. Set foot on the continent of Antarctica.

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Admire the wildlife

Unafraid of humans, you could experience penguins checking you out closely. A must go destination for animal lovers.

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Antarctica Circle

Cross the most southerly of the five major circles of latitude that mark maps of the Earth. Be one of just a few hundred who’ll get to travel across a latitude of 66°33’ S.

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Falklands Islands

The Falkland Islands (Islas Malvinas) are a rugged and remote archipelago in the South Atlantic with great wildlife including Rockhopper, Gentoo, Magellanic, and King penguins.

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South Shetland Islands

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

World Explorer

125 Passengers

Ultramarine

199 Passengers

Ocean Explorer

138 Passengers

MV Plancius

108 Passengers

MV Ortelius

108 Passengers

MV Hondius

176 Passengers

Ocean Endeavour

200 Passengers

Ushuaia

88 passengers and 38 staff Passengers

Le Boréal

264 (200 in Antarctica) Passengers

Le Lyrial

260 (200 in Antarctica) Passengers

L'Austral

264 (200 in Antarctica) Passengers

Heritage Adventurer

140 Passengers

Ocean Nova (Antarctica)

80 Passengers

Greg Mortimer

132 Passengers

Sylvia Earle

132 Passengers

Douglas Mawson

154 Passengers

G Expedition

134 Passengers

Sea Spirit

114 Passengers

The Ocean Nova

71 (67 on fly-cruise) Passengers

Magellan Explorer

96 (76 on fly-cruise) Passengers

Magellan Discoverer

96 (76 on fly-cruise) Passengers

MS Seaventure

138 Passengers

Seabourn Pursuit

264 Passengers

HANSEATIC Spirit

230 Passengers

Le Commandant Charcot

270 (200 in Antarctica) Passengers

Ocean Victory

175 Passengers

Ocean Albatros

175 Passengers

Le Soléal

264 (200 in Antarctica) Passengers

Seabourn Venture

264 Passengers

Hanseatic Inspiration

199 Passengers