Antarctic Cruises for Every Explorer
Experience the World's Last Great Wilderness
Antarctica Cruises is the ultimate Travel Experience.
Explore the White Continent on a modern cruise, hike over the ice, kayak between floating glaciers, and spend the night beneath the amazing colors of the Antarctic sky on an Antarctica cruise from Argentina
Traveling to Antarctica is seasonal due to its extreme weather conditions. The most popular time for traveling to Antarctica is during the Southern summer (between November and March), when temperatures are relatively milder, wildlife is abundant, and there is 24-hour daylight.
Antarctica is rich in wildlife. Visitors can expect to see various species, including penguins (such as Emperor, Adélie, Gentoo, and Chinstrap), seals (like Weddell and Fur seals), numerous bird species (albatross, petrels, and terns), and if fortunate, whales such as humpback, minke, and orca.
Antarctic cruises offer a variety of activities, including zodiac excursions for up-close wildlife encounters, guided shore landings to explore penguin colonies and scientific stations, wildlife watching from the ship, kayaking, photography workshops, and educational lectures by expert naturalists.
Packing for an Antarctic cruise requires preparation for extreme cold and changing weather conditions. Essential items include waterproof clothing, sturdy boots, gloves, a hat, sunscreen, sunglasses, and a camera! Your travel specialist will provide a detailed packing list before your trip.
Safety is a priority due to the extreme conditions. Cruise ships have experienced staff and medical facilities to handle emergencies. Health concerns often revolve around seasickness, sunburn, and the effects of extreme cold. It’s crucial to follow guidelines, dress appropriately, and listen to instructions from the expedition leaders.
Yes, children are allowed on many Antarctica cruises. However, minimum age requirements can vary among different itineraries. Typically, children around eight or older are permitted.
Why go on an Antarctica Cruise?
Because it’s a journey like no other. While many places might remind you of familiar landscapes, Antarctica is in a league of its own with its awe-inspiring glaciers, wildlife, and untouched expanses. This destination remains a land of exploration, even more so than Patagonia ever was.
Embarking on an Antarctic cruise is the most rewarding way to experience this pristine wilderness. Ships designed for South America Antarctica cruises can navigate the harshest conditions, while expert guides and scientists ensure your safety. Enhance your adventure with Ushuaia tours and El Calafate tours to complete your exploration of this stunning region.
Best Destinations to Combine with Antarctica Cruises
Ushuaia in Argentina
Ushuaia is the capital of the Tierra del Fuego. Here is where people come to explore Tierra del Fuego National Park, The Jail “At the end of the world”, and try the best seafood in Argentina.
But also, Ushuaia is the privileged port for Antarctic cruises. Many depart from here, pass through the Beagle Channel, and sail into the challenging water of the Drake Passage.
You can combine your Antarctic trip with three days before or after the Antarctic expedition and visit the natural highlights of Ushuaia.
El Calafate in Argentina
If your Antarcti cruise departs and returns to Ushuaia in Argentina, it is straightforward to fly to El Calafate. This is not a chance to waste.
El Calafate is still Patagonia but north to Ushuaia. You can plan a couple of days in El Calafate (let’s say, 3) to see the Perito Moreno Glacier, navigate the National Park, and take a relaxing ranch day in a typical Patagonian location.
Puerto Natales in Chile
Once your Antarctic cruise is over, you can extend your trip to Puerto Natales in Chilean Patagonia. This little village is known to be the gateway to another amazing destination – Torres del Paine National Park.
Torres del Paine is a minimum 5-day trip. At least if you want to enjoy some serious trekking and camping on the many refuges of the so-called W Circuit inside the park.
If this sounds like too much, you can always make a day trip to see some of the famous viewpoints inside the park and return to Puerto Natales. Milodón Cave is another 1-day attraction you can visit from Puerto Natales, an archeological tour of the wildlife living in the area thousands of years ago.
Punta Arenas in Chile
This city is in southern Puerto Natales and Torres del Paine National Park. Which means that you will be even closer to the magnificent Chilean Fjords. Navigation through the many water roads is usual and an unmissable tour of this area.
Travel Tips to Explore Antarctica
Be Prepared
Be Prepared
Although doctors are on board during your Antarctic cruises, bring extra seasickness medication if needed, especially for the unpredictable waters of a South America Antarctica cruise
Tipping
Tipping
Tipping is optional but common on Antarctica cruises, ranging from $10-20 USD per day.
Connection
Connection
On an Antarctica cruise from Argentina, expect limited communication. Embrace the chance to disconnect from the outside world.
Drake Lake or Drake Shake?
Drake Lake or Drake Shake?
Prepare for the Drake Passage’s ever-changing mood. Whether calm or rough seas, the wildlife sightings on South America Antarctica cruises make it worthwhile.
The Emperor Penguin
The Emperor Penguin
These majestic penguins can only be seen in Antarctica, a highlight of Antarctic cruises.
Be Good with Wildlife
Be Good with Wildlife
On Antarctic cruises, respect the wildlife—don’t touch or disturb animals. Consider adding Patagonia tours to enhance your adventure before or after your Antarctic expedition.
Be Prepared
Although doctors are on board during your Antarctic cruises, bring extra seasickness medication if needed, especially for the unpredictable waters of a South America Antarctica cruise
Connection
On an Antarctica cruise from Argentina, expect limited communication. Embrace the chance to disconnect from the outside world.
The Emperor Penguin
These majestic penguins can only be seen in Antarctica, a highlight of Antarctic cruises.
Tipping
Tipping is optional but common on Antarctica cruises, ranging from $10-20 USD per day.
Drake Lake or Drake Shake?
Prepare for the Drake Passage’s ever-changing mood. Whether calm or rough seas, the wildlife sightings on South America Antarctica cruises make it worthwhile.
Be Good with Wildlife
On Antarctic cruises, respect the wildlife—don’t touch or disturb animals. Consider adding Patagonia tours to enhance your adventure before or after your Antarctic expedition.
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