Antarctica Luxury Cruises & Expeditions

Explore the icy frontier of the world’s 7th continent on a luxury Antarctica cruise with an authentic expedition experience in unparalleled comfort.

Introduction To Antarctica Luxury Cruises

Our handpicked Luxury Antarctica Cruises, selected by our in-house polar experts, allow you to experience the wilds of Antarctica with a team of naturalist guides.

An Antarctic cruise is a once-in-a-lifetime journey to one of the last great wildernesses on Earth. With regular shore landings and Zodiac cruises, you will visit beaches where fur seals barge and Gentoo penguins waddle along the shore. Sail past giant icebergs and stunning scenery and visit sites of historical and scientific interest.

A new generation of small luxury expedition ships offers the highest level of comfort, service, and onboard luxury while giving you a rich expedition experience with onboard experts, guides, scientists, and optional activities such as kayaking.

Whether you're a nature lover, an adventure enthusiast, or just looking for a once-in-a-lifetime experience, Antarctica has something for everyone. So start planning your trip to the White Continent today?

Luxury Cruises to Antarctica

Ultramarine
Includes Flight Seeing
Ushuaia - Ushuaia
Jan 18 - Jan 29 2025
11 Nights

Price from per person

£11,592
Antarctica fly the drake expedition cruise
Punta Arenas to Punta Arenas
Dec 15 - Dec 22 2024
7 Nights

Price from per person

£11,600
luxury expedition cruise ship in Antarctica
Door To Door
King George Island To King George Island
Oct 26 - Nov 1 2025
6 Nights

Price from per person

£16,010

Antarctica Luxury Cruise Highlights

Why Visit?

1

Antarctica's Unique Wildlife

Antarctica offers wildlife enthusiasts the chance to see wildlife up close to the ship, shore, or Zodiac with our naturalist guides.

2

Unspoiled Wilderness

Hike on snowy landscapes, see glaciers from the Zodiacs or take an optional kayaking trip through the sea ice. Antarctica is for explorers.

3

Antarctica's History

Visit historical sites and hear about the first people to reach the frozen South from our onboard historians.

4

Learn About Antarctica

Learn about Antarctica through the eyes of our scientists, expedition guides and guest speakers who are researching the polar regions.

5

Small Ship Expedition In Luxury

A big part of an Antarctica cruise is the ship itself. Enjoy fine dining, comfortable cabins with stunning views, luxury amenities and an experienced guide team.

What To See On An Antarctica Luxury Cruise

antarctica wildlife

Penguins and Wildlife

With five penguin species, leopard seals, orcas, wandering albatrosses, and numerous whale species, Antarctica is a wildlife and wildlife lover's paradise.

Tabular Icebergs in the Weddell Sea on a luxury Antarctica cruise

Giant Icebergs and Glaciers

With some of the most enormous icebergs on Earth and countless glaciers, an expedition cruise to Antarctica is the ultimate ice experience.

Scott's hut at Cape Evans Antarctica historical site

Historical Sites

From Point Wild, where Ernest Shackleton set out on his daring rescue to South Georgia, to a research station buried by an eruption on Deception Island, Antarctica has plenty of history.

The bow of a cruise ship in Antarctica

Polar Wilderness & Landscapes

Shore landings, wilderness hikes, Zodiac rides and optional activities such as kayaking are all part of the expedition experience.

How To Get To Our Antarctica Luxury Cruises

The most common way to get to Antarctica is on an expedition cruise from South America, departing from Chile or Argentina and sailing south to the Antarctic Peninsula. Most cruises depart from Ushuaia in Argentina, which has good air connections to Buenos Aires for international flights. There are also options to sail from New Zealand and explore Antarctica’s less visited Ross Sea side.

For guests who want to skip the two-day Drake Passage crossing, it is possible to fly to Antarctica and join an expedition cruise that departs from King George Island in the South Shetland Islands. These fly-and-sail cruises are for guests who have less time or want to avoid the crossing.

You can also fly to Antarctica and visit the South Pole or go on a land-based expedition to a remote Emperor Penguin colony.

See our guide below for all the options.

When To Go On An Antarctica Luxury Cruise

Antarctica cruises run during the southern summer months from Late October to March when the temperatures are warmest, and the wildlife is most active. The best month to go on an Antarctica cruise depends on your interests.

Late October and November are for photographers as Antarctica emerges from winter with deep snow and beautiful landscapes. December and January are for 20 – 24 hours of daylight, with penguin rookeries full of hatching penguins and mating seals. February is for extended trips to the Polar Circle as the sea ice is receding and passages further south are possible. March is autumn and the end of the season with the best whale watching.

See our When to Visit Antarctica Guide for more information on what Antarctica offers each month.

Antarctica Cruises

Antarctica luxury fly cruise

Luxury Antarctica Fly and Cruise

For those who need more time or want to avoid crossing the Drake Passage, there is the option to fly and take a luxury cruise in Antarctica. A selection of luxury cruise ships offer this option.
Luxury Antarctica Cruises on Silver Endeavour Luxury Expedition ship

Antarctica In Ultra Luxury

For the discerning traveller looking for ultimate comfort, choose from a selection of 5* and 6* small luxury expedition ships that offer service, cuisine and style never seen before.

Antarctica Small Ships

For wildlife enthusiasts, photographers and explorers who want to see more, choose from our small ship cruises to Antarctica on modern expedition ships with premium comfort.
Epic Antarctica cruises with PONANT

Epic Antarctica Luxury Cruises

For the real explorers, choose an extended Antarctica cruise with options to semi-circumnavigate the Antarctic Peninsula and the Ross Sea or go south to the Polar Circle.

Antarctica By Icebreaker

For the pioneer in you, choose a luxury Antarctica Icebreaker cruise early in the season to visit previously inaccessible places, such as the Weddell Sea.

Antarctica and South Georgia Luxury Cruises

For wildlife enthusiasts, combine your Antarctica cruise with a visit to South Georgia Island, home to over 400,000 King Penguins, Wandering Albatrosses, and southern elephant seals.

Places To Visit On An Antarctica Luxury Cruise

Emperor Penguins in Antarctica

Weddell Sea

Follow Shackleton's footsteps and visit the Weddell Sea, known for its giant icebergs and Emperor Penguin colonies.
sir Ernest Shackleton's hut covered in snow in East Antarctica

Ross Sea

Visit the less-visited side of Antarctica, famous for its historic sites, such as Shackleton's cabin and wildlife.
Mountains on the Antarctic Peninsula on a luxury cruise

Antarctic Peninsula

Antarctica's most popular place to visit is known for penguin rookeries and marine life..
Guests on Zodiacs in the polar circle in Antarctica on a luxury cruise

Antarctic Circle Cruises

the late season, go on an extended expedition to reach the southern polar circle and experience epic ice.

South Georgia

Visit this remote island, a wildlife haven and home to over 4000,000 King Penguin pairs.

Our Recommended Antarctica Luxury Cruise Ships

Silver Endeavour

192 Guests
PC6 Ice-Class
164 Metres
A new small luxury expedition ship built for polar exploration, Silver Endeavour offers guests a first-class expedition experience with never-before-seen levels of luxury. From its luxurious suites with verandas offering breathtaking views to thoughtfully designed interiors with large windows throughout, stylish lounges, and fine dining options, Silver Endeavour is for the luxury traveller looking for a genuine expedition experience.

SH Minerva

152 Guests
PC5 Ice-Class
113 Metres
SH Minerva is the newest luxury small expedition ship in the polar regions. Carrying under 152 guests, it offers an intimate 5* expedition experience. With 15 Zodiacs and an expert team of guides, guests can explore with expert guides. Onboard you can enjoy Michelin-star dining, staterooms with balconies, a stargazing deck with a lookout point and exciting itineraries.

Le Commandant Charcot

245 Guests
Icebreaker PC2 Ice-Class
150 Metres
A 5* luxury icebreaker which breaks new ground (or should we say ice!) Le Commandant Charcot offers the most thrilling itineraries with her icebreaking hull; she can go where others can't. She's the only ship that can reach the Geographic North Pole, Antarctica, and East Greenland's sea ice early in the season. Onboard, you can enjoy gourmet dining options, spacious staterooms and luxury suites, a large outdoor heated lagoon and an indoor relaxation area with a pool and stunning views.

Why Antarctica?

Antarctica, the White Continent, is a destination like no other. It's a place of stunning landscapes, incredible wildlife and unparalleled adventure. Here are just a few reasons why you should consider visiting Antarctica:

Unique Landscapes: Antarctica is home to some of the planet's most beautiful and unique landscapes. The scenery is breathtaking, from towering glaciers and giant icebergs to snow-capped mountains and frozen tundras. The Antarctic Peninsula offers stunning views that are a photographer's paradise.

Incredible Wildlife: Antarctica is a wildlife lover's paradise. The continent is home to an astonishing array of species, including penguins, seals, whales, and seabirds. On guided shore excursions, you can see these amazing creatures up close and personal. Imagine seeing humpback whales breach the icy waters or a colony of Gentoo penguins.

Adventure and Exploration: Antarctica is the ultimate adventure destination. From kayaking and camping to mountaineering and cross-country skiing, endless opportunities exist to explore the continent and push your limits. Whether you're paddling through the icy waters of the South Shetland Islands or hiking across the rugged terrain of South Georgia, every moment is an adventure.

Scientific Research: Antarctica is a hub for scientific research, with numerous research stations and expeditions on the continent. You'll be able to learn about the latest research and discoveries from expert scientists and researchers. Discover the fascinating work being done to understand climate change, marine biology and glaciology in the polar regions.

Luxury and Comfort: Despite its remote location, Antarctica can be experienced in style and comfort. Luxury Antarctica cruise ships offer spacious suites, fine dining, and exceptional service, making your journey to the bottom of the world a truly unforgettable experience. Enjoy gourmet meals, relax in your suite, and take advantage of the amenities on board as you sail through this pristine wilderness.

Antarctica Luxury Cruises FAQ

The cost of an Antarctica luxury cruise varies depending on many factors, such as ship size, level of luxury, number of guests, time of year, and length of itinerary.

A luxury cruise to the Antarctic Peninsula starts from € 15,348 per person for nine days on SH Diana, departing from Ushuaia, Argentina, in a balcony stateroom, up to € 23,625 for a suite.

Luxury flight and cruise options in Antarctica start from € 12,750 per person for a day luxury cruise, including flights from Punta Arenas in Chile to King George Island in Antarctica and accommodation in a Classic Veranda Suite on Silver Endeavour. Prices go up to € 62,400 per person for the owner suite.

For a 28-day epic expedition to do a semi-circumnavigation of Antarctica, including the Antarctic Peninsula and the Ross Sea on Le Commandant Charcot from Ushuaia to New Zealand, prices start from £36,640 per person for a prestige stateroom and go up to £70,000 per person for the top range suites.

Our Travel Experience Team will help you plan your expedition, advise you on which ship suits you, and recommend different accommodation options.

To find out more please see our guide How Much does An Antarctica Cruise Cost?

Some Antarctica cruises offer kayaking, hiking, snowshoeing, snorkelling, and polar plunges. Activities are subject to availability and weather conditions.

Please let us know which activities you are interested in during the booking process, and we will find the right voyage for you. Some activities are included in the cost, and others are extra.

Yes, we offer no single supplement on some Antarctica cruises. Our Travel Experience Team has access to the best offers for solo travellers. Please contact us with your requirements, and we will find the best no-single supplement Antarctica cruise for you.

Luxury expedition cruises to Antarctica include a 6-day fly-and-cruise, a 10-day Antarctic Peninsula tour, or a 28-day semi-circumnavigation of Antarctica.

If you want to see more wildlife, we recommend a longer cruise.

Antarctica is cold even in summer when temperatures are milder than expected. The continent has a polar climate with freezing temperatures, high winds and unique light conditions. Here’s what you can expect regarding weather on an Antarctica luxury cruise.

In Antarctic summer, from late November to early March, temperatures are milder than the rest of the year. But “milder” is a relative term in Antarctica, and temperatures remain cold.

Temperature

Summer temperatures range from -2 °C to 8 °C (28°F to 46°F) along the Antarctic Peninsula, where most of the cruise activities take place. However, temperatures can be colder inland and at higher elevations.

Daylight

Summer brings the midnight sun, and there is continuous daylight for an extended period. This means more time to explore and watch wildlife.

Conditions

Although it’s the warmest time of the year, conditions can still be rough, with strong winds and rapid weather changes. Expect a mix of sunny days, overcast days, and occasional snow.

Sea Ice

Sea ice reduces slightly during the summer months, making navigation easier and some areas more accessible.

Factors to Consider

Variable Weather

Antarctica’s weather is known to be variable; conditions can change quickly. Be prepared for different weather scenarios, from calm and clear to windy and snowy.

Wind Chill

Wind chill makes temperatures feel colder than they are. High winds are common, and wind chills can significantly affect temperature.

Clothing

You will need to pack the right clothing, including insulated and waterproof layers, to stay warm and dry in cold and wet conditions. We will send you a packing list when you book.

At North Pole Cruises, we want to give you an unforgettable experience while being environmentally responsible. Our Antarctica cruises are designed with sustainability in mind, and we take several measures to have minimal impact on this pristine and fragile environment.

IAATO Membership

All our Antarctica cruise operators are IAATO members. IAATO is the leading organization that promotes and regulates responsible tourism in Antarctica. As members, our cruise operators abide by the IAATO guidelines and standards, so you can be assured of a commitment to sustainability, environmental protection and responsible tourism.

Latest Ships

We work exclusively with the latest ships, which have the latest technology and design elements for sustainability. These ships have advanced waste management systems, energy-efficient technology, and low-impact propulsion systems to minimize their environmental footprint. By using the latest vessels, we ensure our cruises are up to date with the latest industry standards.

Operator Commitment to Sustainability

We partner with operators who share our commitment to sustainability. These operators actively practice environmental conservation, wildlife protection and responsible tourism. From onboard waste reduction to responsible wildlife viewing guidelines, our operators work hard to maintain the highest standards of sustainability throughout the entire cruise.

Environmental Education and Awareness

Our Antarctica cruises are about more than just about the scenery and wildlife. We are committed to educating our guests. Onboard naturalists and guides will provide educational programs about the Antarctic ecosystem, conservation and how travellers can help preserve these pristine landscapes.

Compliance with the Antarctic Treaty

We strictly comply with the Antarctic Treaty, an international agreement that designates Antarctica as a scientific preserve and prohibits military activity on the continent. By following the treaty’s guidelines, we help preserve Antarctica’s environment and promote responsible tourism in the region.

We recommend booking your Antarctica luxury cruise for 12-18 months to secure your preferred ship and cabin. However, we always have last-minute availability on some departures.

Contact our Travel Experience Team to find out about last-minute availability.

Accommodation in luxury cabins, meals, guides, guest lecturers as per itinerary, Zodiac cruises and excursions, and charter flights.

See the tour page for full inclusions.

To book your Antarctica luxury cruise, first contact our Travel Experience Team. They will help you choose your itinerary and provide you with availability and pricing for your chosen voyage.

We know financial security is key for our clients, which is why all bookings made with North Pole Cruises come with 100% financial protection and supplier failure insurance free of charge. Thus, you have the best possible protection on your booking.

Payment options will be quoted when you book your chosen itinerary.

Typical payment terms are a 30% deposit to reserve your cabin and a balance due 90 days before departure.

We accept credit cards or bank transfers.

Do you need help planning your expedition cruise?

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