antarctic tours from australia

• Australia To Antarctica

Antarctica Cruises, Tours & Trips From Australia

Embark on an epic expedition from Australia to Antarctica with these Antarctica cruises, tours & trips from Australia’s port hub of Hobart, Tasmania.

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• With Partner/Friend
• With Family
• As Part Of A Group
• Emperor Penguin
• Photography
• Exploration Heritage
• Antarctic Peninsula
• Antarctic Circle
• Falklands/S. Georgia
• Weddell Sea
• Ross Sea/E. Antarctica

• TRAVEL AGENTS
• TESTIMONIALS

Expedition Cruises

• Fridtjof-Nansen
• Roald Amundsen
• Polar Pioneer
• Ocean Diamond
• Ocean Adventurer
• Ocean Endeavour
• G-Expedition

Expedition+Luxury Cruises

Greg mortimer, sylvia earle.

• Ocean Albatros
• Ocean Victory
• NatGeo Explorer
• Heritage Adventurer
• Magellan Explorer
• Ultramarine​
• World Explorer
• Ocean Explorer

Luxury C ruises

Silver cloud.

• Silver Wind
• Le Commandant Charcot
• World Traveller

Silver Endeavour

• Seabourn Venture
• Seabourn Pursuit

Scenic Eclipse

• Viking Octantis
• Viking Polaris
• World Navigator

Antarctica – South Georgia & Falklands

• Antarctic Peninsula
• South Georgia
• Falkland Islands
• East Antarctica | Ross Sea
• New Zealand Sub Antarctic Islands

Pre & Post Cruise Extensions

• Galapagos Islands & Ecuador
• Easter Island
• City Stopover & Iguazu Falls
• Machu Picchu & Peru
• ANTARCTICA GUIDE
• AUS 1300 787 987

Antarctica Cruise

Best deals  packages, all in one place, why antarcticacruise.au, simple, expert trip planning..

AntarcticaCruise.au makes planning a trip to the White Continent simple and gets Australians and savvy travelers around the world the best value on the perfect cruise for you.

We know that it can be overwhelming to choose between over 40 different ships and itineraries and that an Antarctic cruise is a significant investment. That’s where our team of Antarctica experts can help you find the best match for your interests, schedule, and budget.

Major options for

Antarctica cruises, what type of trip should i take.

• G Expedition
• Ultramarine
• National Geographic Explorer
• Viking Octanis

The Hand-Selected Best

Antarctica small cruise ships, for 2024-2025-2026.

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Contact us for a Free Custom Designed Itinerary

Popular south america extensions, continue your adventure choose from our selection of south american itineraries to complement your antarctica cruise, or allow us to create a tailor-made journey for you, exploring incredible destinations such as patagonia, iguassu falls, machu picchu, or the galapagos islands., machu picchu & galapagos islands.

Departures:

Price from: AU$

Santiago & Easter Island

Machu picchu & amazon, essential peru, rio – iguassu falls – amazon & machu picchu, best of south america for 27 days, antarctica cruising & travel guide.

What you need to know before you go to Antarctica

When is the best time to cruise Antarctica?

The Antarctic cruising season is from November through March, though the best weather is generally December through February.

How do I select the best Antarctic cruise for me?

The primary criteria are: The type of cruise ship (small vs. large), length of the cruise, whether you sail both ways between the tip of South America or fly one or both ways, and of course, price.  Our Antarctica cruise planning experts can help you select the perfect cruise ship and itinerary for you and your party.

Antarctica Cruise offers a wide variety of ships – from the rustic to absolute luxury to accommodate each traveler's taste and budget.

Each type of ship offers its own unique travel experience, amenities, and advantages. we’ll take the time to learn your travel style and preferences, and then help you book the voyage that’s right for you. our goal is to match you with the ship and tour that best meets your antarctica trip requirements and expectations. make the most of our exclusive cruise package deals not advertised on our site that you won’t find anywhere else., exclusive cruise package deals, tell us about your dream trip to antarctica and south america looks like. we will build you a custom itinerary even for packages not listed on our website., sail with antarcticacruise.au, get expert advice and the best value on a cruise to antarctica.

Antarctica Cruises

Book early for 2025 and 2026 sailings to Antarctica and save up to 25% with the HX Price Promise*.

Go with the global leader in expeditions to Antarctica

Nothing compares to an Antarctica expedition. For many, exploring this vast, frozen continent is a once-in-a-lifetime dream. To cross the Drake Passage and reach the last great frontier - a place where sun glints off pristine ice and wildlife reigns supreme - is truly life-changing. And that's why you'll want to do it with the experts. At HX, we've been exploring Antarctica for over 20 years, and we do so in a sustainable style, with a world-leading science programme that actively helps the fragile ecosystems we explore.

20 years and counting

We've been exploring the White Continent expedition-style for over 20 years, so for the best cruises to Antarctica choose HX.

Across selected sailings, we will cover the cost of your flights to Antarctica!

Meet the locals

The seas and shores around Antarctica teem with wildlife. See colonies of penguins, graceful whales and curious seals. On a trip to Antarctica, you'll marvel at pristine panoramas of snowy mountains, wind-sculpted icebergs and mighty glaciers.

The krill-rich waters around the White Continent support abundant wildlife: from humpback whales and fur seals to albatrosses and penguins. An estimated population of 12 million penguins of several species call the Antarctic Peninsula home.

Exploring Antarctica

An all-inclusive cruise to Antarctica with HX means entering explorer mode. You’ll join our experienced Expedition Team in small launches as we go on shore landings and seek out wildlife.

Other activities include kayaking, snowshoeing, camping, and perhaps even a polar plunge if you want to experience a pure Antarctic rush!

We go beyond Antarctica, with South Georgia, the Falkland Islands, Patagonia and more included on many of our voyages.

A symphony of ice and sky

Experience the tranquillity of vast panoramas and sail among the sublime frozen icescapes of Antarctica, as we pass between icebergs, close to calving glaciers, and past huge ice floes in the Southern Ocean.

Cruises to Antarctica

In-depth Antarctica & Patagonia Expedition | Southbound

Departure date

Price from $26,373

Antarctica & Patagonia Expedition | Southbound

Departure Dates

21 Oct 24, 1 Nov 24

Price from $18,613

MS Roald Amundsen +1

MS Roald Amundsen MS Fridtjof Nansen

Antarctica & Falkland Expedition

6 Nov 24, 20 Nov 24 + 4 more departures

Price from $16,785

MS Roald Amundsen

Adventure is All-Inclusive

An HX trip includes everything from daily excursions and activities to our onboard Science Centre, meals, gratuities, drinks and more. ​ All designed to give you the expedition experience of a lifetime.

Active exploration

On an HX expedition cruise to Antarctica, you’ll be an explorer not a passenger. Cross the Drake Passage and explore expedition-style as we seek out remote landing sites for nature encounters.

Activities in Antarctica

On your all-inclusive trip to Antarctica you'll get closer to the Seventh Continent than you ever dreamed. Experience the magic as you step off your expedition boat and feel the crunch of snow beneath your boots. Guided by your Expedition Team, you'll be able to paddle through icestrewn waters, photograph penguins and whales guided by our expert photographer, hike across pristine landscapes wearing snowshoes, and perhaps take a polar plunge if you're feeling brave. For a lucky few, camping in tents overnight is the ultimate Antarctic experience.

Snowshoeing

When the conditions are right, there's no better way to cross the frozen terrain than by wearing snowshoes. Our modern equipment makes it easy to walk on the soft snow, and the elements are usually best during our late spring and early summer Antarctica cruises.

Hear the beautiful 'symphony of the ice' as you glide silently past nature's frozen works of art in a sea kayak. Designed for close-up polar exploration, there's no better way to encounter the wildlife of Antarica and to enjoy its soul-stirring scenery.

Camping | Amundsen Night

Spend a magical night camping in a tent on the shore in Antarctica. In the style of the early explorers, we use our specialised equipment to spend the night under the stars for this once-in-a-lifetime experience. As you might expect, camping is a popular activity and numbers are limited. Who gets to go usually has to be decided by a lottery system. Feeling lucky?

* Please note that these are optional activities; an additional cost may apply.

Wildlife on ice

Even in the extreme environment of Antarctica, life not only survives but thrives. Its icy seas, isolated icebergs and snow-driven deserts are home to wildlife that surprises and charms.

Wildlife in Antarctica

Nowhere on Earth feels as remote as Antarctica, yet the wildlife here is abundant and spectacular. The icy shores are a haven for millions of penguins, as well as seals and seabirds, while the deep blue waters support a huge population of whales. Your Expedition Team will help you spot and photograph iconic animals, and there will be lectures on ornithology and natural history from our wildlife experts. In the Science Centre you'll learn more, and perhaps even help out with wildlife conservation through out Citizen Science projects.

Where science and learning meet nature

Science is at the core of our voyage into the heart of the natural world in Antarctica. Learn about geology, climatology and ornitholgy, and collect samples and take part in experiments with our onboard scientific experts.

Your Antarctica Expedition Team

You're in the best hands with your onboard Expedition Team. Handpicked experts from a range of backgrounds, you'll soon discover their passion and energy for Antarctica is infectious. They'll lead you on adventures off the ship, deliver fascinating lectures, unlock nature's wonders in the Science Centre, and perhaps even entertain you along the way. On your cruise to Antarctica, the Expedition Team will be your companions in adventure.

Expedition Ships | The perfect balance

Our state-of-the-art expedition vessels feature hybrid propulsion technology, ice-class hulls and advanced onboard waste-reduction systems. Large enough to offer excellent stability and a spacious onboard experience, yet small enough to get off the beaten track, you'll discover that HX ships are the perfect balance for the ultimate Antarctic adventure.

Purpose-built as an expedition cruise ship, MS Fram is an exceptional base camp for explorers. On board, comfort is a top priority, so after a day of exploration you can relax in a hot tub, dine in your choice of two restaurants or at the outdoor BBQ and catch up with your fellow guests with a cocktail in hand as you watch the scenery glide past in the Explorer Lounge & Bar. In the Science Centre, at the heart of the ship, you’ll discover more about the places you sail to and listen to talks by the Expedition Team.  With key expedition features and technology, MS Fram is primed to bring you on a journey of discovery to our planet’s most alluring and unspoiled regions. 

Named after the first man to cross Antarctica and to reach the South Pole, MS Roald Amundsen leads the way towards an even more sustainable way of travelling. The ship is specially constructed for voyages in polar waters. It serves as a comfortable base camp at sea – bringing adventurers from all over the world to the most spectacular destinations in the most sustainable way.

MS Fridtjof Nansen

The newest addition to our fleet will honor the heritage of her namesake – the Norwegian explorer, scientist, humanitarian, and Nobel Peace Prize laureate Fridtjof Nansen. Known for his innovations in Arctic expeditions, Nansen led the first crossing of Greenland on cross-country skis. He is perhaps most famous for his attempt to reach the geographical North Pole during the Fram Expedition (1893-1896). Interestingly, after Nansen's Fram expedition, the ship was passed on to another great explorer who secretly planned an expedition to the South Pole - Roald Amundsen.

Make a difference

Support the scientific community in collecting valuable data on Antarctica that contributes to global research by participating in our Citizen Science Programme.

Stories from Antarctica

Expedition Travel Guide to Antarctica

Antarctica is the pinnacle of expedition and adventure travel! Start planning your journey to exploring this pristine world of ice, wildlife, and awe-inspiring beauty.

15 Interesting Facts About Antarctica

On the southern-most tip of the planet rests one of the world's most massive and mysterious landmasses - the frozen realm of Antarctica.

Seven Incredible Drake Passage Facts

You might assume that the Drake Passage was first sailed by British explorer Sir Francis Drake, but the truth behind this waterway’s somewhat misleading name is just one of many interesting facts about the passage.

Antarctica is the only continent with no significant plant life and no native land mammals, reptiles, or amphibians. Even in the extreme environment of Antarctica, life not only survives but thrives. Its icy seas, isolated icebergs and snow-driven deserts are home to wildlife that surprise and charm all who visit them.

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Svalbard is a Norwegian archipelago in the High Arctic between mainland Norway and the North Pole, also know as Spitsbergen. A destination of a lifetime, our expeditions to Svalbard connect you to the majesty of this Arctic wilderness, where dramatic fjords, rugged mountain ranges and a fossil-rich polar desert await.

Overhead, puffins, guillemots and other native Svalbard avian circle, commanding your attention, while the scree slopes house the island’s largest little auk colony. Witness sea walruses puncturing the ice, beluga whales breaching or a fluffy Arctic fox.  Svalbard is the kingdom of the polar bear – witness one of these majestic, elusive creatures if you’re lucky. All leave a lasting impression.

The polar summer spans from May to September, where the Midnight Sun’s beautiful colours and contrasts adds an extra dimension to Svalbard’s glaciers, majestic mountains and Arctic tundra. This is the best time to enjoy outside exploration and take in this frozen land.

Svalbard is large and diverse, showcasing nature’s surprisingly rich and extremely varied landscapes. Life in Longyearbyen, Svalbard’s capital city, may be perceived as harsh, but for those fortunate to live here, it’s hard to imagine living anywhere else. Its inhabitants strive to live as one with nature, working in harmony to uphold their unique way of life throughout the enormous seasonal variations in temperature, light and darkness.

Antarctic Peninsula Cruises & Expeditions

Home > Destinations > Antarctic Peninsula Cruises & Expeditions

Antarctic Peninsula Cruises

The Antarctic Peninsula is a 1,300 kilometre jagged finger that juts out of the Antarctic continent, pointing towards South America. With a mountain range that extends for more than half its length, and peaks approaching 3,000 metres, the Peninsula offers the most dramatic scenery in Antarctica.

It also boasts the biggest collection of Antarctic wildlife, with numerous species of seals, penguins and whales that flock to its nutrient-rich waters to feed on krill. Experience stepping foot on the 7th continent, Zodiac cruising past tabular icebergs to mammoth glacier fronts observing the ice calving, and visit historic sites including the most southerly post office in the world. 

An Antarctic Peninsula expedition is the classic way to experience the white continent and the first taste of Antarctica for most expeditioners.

• Expeditions

Destination Highlights

Antarctic Peninsula: Fly the Drake

USD $ 20,820.75

Epic Antarctica: Crossing the 7th Continent

USD $ 35,036.00

Antarctica Active (All Inclusive Activities)

USD $ 14,870.75

Spirit of Antarctica featuring the Chilean Fjords

USD $ 13,116.00

Antarctic Explorer featuring the Chilean Fjords

USD $ 16,316.00

In Shackleton’s Footsteps

USD $ 20,096.25

South Georgia & Antarctic Odyssey featuring the South Sandwich Islands

USD $ 23,836.00

Antarctic Peninsula in Depth

USD $ 13,676.00

Antarctic Explorer Express

USD $ 12,575.75

Antarctic Explorer

USD $ 14,621.25

Falklands, South Georgia & Antarctic Peninsula

USD $ 22,396.00

Antarctica Complete

USD $ 29,915.75

Spirit of Antarctica

USD $ 10,556.00

Wild Antarctica featuring the Weddell Sea

USD $ 11,676.00

Across the Antarctic Circle

USD $ 14,190.75

South Georgia, Falklands & Antarctic Odyssey

USD $ 19,646.25

Why Join Our Antarctic Peninsula Cruises and Expeditions?

The Antarctic Peninsula is the most accessible part of the continent, which makes Aurora Expeditions’ Antarctic Peninsula Cruises perfect for people who dream of ticking Antarctica off their travel bucket list. Our Antarctic cruises usually start here before moving even further south towards the South Pole, in the Weddell Sea and Antarctic Circle regions. 

It’s hard to prepare for an Antarctic Peninsula expedition. Every day will bring new experiences, from your first Zodiac cruise to shore for a closer look at busy penguin colonies, swooping skuas and curious seals, to cruising past majestic icebergs the size of skyscrapers in our purpose-built expedition ship and seeing an enormous glacier calve – the sound of which will remain with you forever. 

On our Antarctic Peninsula cruises, you’ll have the opportunity to visit well-known sites, including Deception Island and Port Lockroy, and maybe even discover some new favourites alongside your Expedition Team.

Towering icebergs, rugged cliffs and the clearest water in the world create a stunning backdrop for photographers. Your onboard photographer will be on hand to help you capture those unforgettable moments. 

Antarctic Peninsula Cruise Wildlife Encounters

The Antarctic Peninsula becomes a bustling metropolis of wildlife from late spring, when we commence our expeditions to Antarctica. For the best wildlife encounters, visit in the peak of summer, when tiny penguin chicks are growing quickly and fur seal pups are being weaned.

Get to know the different penguin species that have penguin rookeries across the Antarctica Peninsula. Gentoo penguins, emperor penguins, chinstrap penguins and Adélie penguins all thrive here. Our expedition leaders will provide valuable information about their lives and how they manage to survive in colonies scattered across the harsh Antarctic Peninsula.

Zodiac cruise or kayak in search of leopard seals on ice floes, be delighted by fur seals swimming playfully near your vessel, fall in love with Weddell seals’ puppy-dog eyes, and learn about the recovery of the elephant seal population after they were prized by sealers for decades.

Antarctic Peninsula cruises offer a unique opportunity to witness some of the most magnificent creatures on earth –  whales. The waters around the peninsula are home to several species of whales, including the humpback whale, the minke whale and the orca, also known as the killer whale. Search for whales in the icy bays and witness their tail flukes as they dive to feed on krill. These gentle giants can often be seen swimming close to the ship, putting on a spectacular show for lucky spectators. The experience of witnessing these majestic creatures in their natural habitat is truly unforgettable and is one of the highlights of any Antarctic Peninsula expedition.  Although whales are present throughout the season, late season voyages in February and March offer the best whale watching opportunities.

Our Antarctic Peninsula cruises are an incredible opportunity to witness a diverse array of fascinating seabirds in their natural habitat. Among the species that expeditioners may encounter are the majestic wandering albatross, famous for its impressive wingspan, the elegant snow petrel, whose snowy plumage blends seamlessly with the icy landscape, and the playful Antarctic tern. Other species that may be spotted include the southern giant petrel, the Antarctic shag, and the strikingly beautiful Cape petrel. These birds are not only a joy to observe but also play crucial roles in the Antarctic ecosystem.

Unique Antarctic Peninsula Cruise Experiences

The drake passage.

The fastest way to visit Antarctica by sea is by crossing the Drake Passage, which has become a rite of passage for many polar explorers. Learn about the brave explorers who came before you as you sail the infamous Drake Passage in one or both directions on new, purpose-built expedition ships that were built for these dramatic waters.

Zodiac Cruising

Not just a mode of transportation, Zodiac cruising in the Antarctic Peninsula is a highlight for many on our Antarctic voyages. Your expert driver will manoeuvre you over sea ice and around beautifully sculpted icebergs to scenic bays and viewpoints of glaciers calving which are not accessible by ship. 

Shore Excursions

After being shuttled to shore, visit penguin rookeries, discover historic huts and explore some of our favourite spots along the Peninsula. Stretch your legs by wandering along pebbly beaches or up snow-covered ridgelines to vantage points with mountains towering overhead and ice-speckled oceans below.

Activity Program

There is so much more to the Antarctic Peninsula than what is visible above the surface. Explore icy underwater worlds that few get to experience by adding scuba diving or snorkelling to your expedition. If these aren’t for you, you will still have the chance to immerse yourself in polar waters and earn the ultimate bragging rights by participating in a polar plunge. 

If you choose an expedition cruise early in the season, you can choose to spend a night camping under Antarctica’s pastel skies, listening to the uninterrupted sounds of raw nature – ice cracking and popping all around you, glaciers calving, a whale breaching in the distance… Unsurprisingly, many are too entranced to doze off!

Svalbard Tours Regions

The Svalbard archipelago has nine main islands; some of these islands are connected by sea ice and expedition cruises are the only safe way to move between them. A lot of these islands are national parks, in fact, Svalbard has seven national parks in total. Find out more about the main islands below.

Spitsbergen

Svalbard’s largest island is 39,044 square kilometres. Its landscape is dominated by rugged mountains indented by post-card perfect fjords, and more than half of the island is covered in ice year-round. Six national parks protect its delicate environment and diverse fauna, which makes it a favourite for travellers visiting Svalbard. Spitsbergen is the only permanently inhabited part of Svalbard, with Longyearbyen the biggest settlement and administrative centre of Svalbard.

Nordaustlandet (North East Land)

The second largest island in the Svalbard archipelago is completely uninhabited. Situated entirely within the Nordaust-Svalbard Nature Reserve, it is made up of sizable ice caps and tundra.

Edgeøya (Edge Island)

Edgeøya is a Norwegian island situated in the southeast of the Svalbard archipelago. With an area of 5,073 square kilometres, it is the third-largest island in this archipelago. It forms part of the Søraust-Svalbard Nature Reserve and is home to polar bears and reindeer.

Barentsøya (Barents Island)

Named after the Dutch explorer Willem Barentsz, almost half of this island in the Søraust-Svalbard Nature Reserve is glaciated. While the island has no permanent human inhabitants, it is a favourite of polar bears and seabirds, especially kittiwakes.

Prins Karls Foreland (Prince Charles Foreland)

This long island on Svalbard’s west coast and its surrounding seas constitutes Forlandet National Park. It boasts jagged peaks and wild glaciers that remind one of the Antarctic peninsula, alongside vast green plains and polar deserts. The harbour seal is commonly found here.

Kvitøya (White Island)

When ice conditions allow, adventure seekers can discover Svalbard’s easternmost island, where polar bears roam and walrus swim. This island is the resting place of Andrée’s Arctic balloon expedition of 1897, which was one of the great mysteries of the Arctic for decades.

Kong Karls Land (King Charles Land)

This small island group is part of the Nordaust-Svalbard Nature Reserve and boasts the largest concentration of polar bears in Svalbard. Because of this, there is a ban on traffic to the island, with ships and aircraft not being able to come within 500 metres of the area.

Bjørnøya (Bear Island)

The southernmost island of Svalbard is rarely visited because it can be challenging to access, with no protected bays, rough weather, strong wind and thick fog. While its history revolves around hunting, it is now an important scientific research site and the whole island is a nature reserve with restricted access.

This small, remote island in the far southeast is part of the Southeast Svalbard Nature Reserve. Visiting can be a lucky dip because of heavy ice, fog, rough waters and unprotected beaches. The island has been identified as an Important Bird Area (IBA), supporting breeding colonies of thick-billed guillemots, black guillemots and black-legged kittiwakes.

Antarctic Peninsula Cruise Activities

Visit the Antarctic peninsula with Aurora Expeditions and explore one of the world’s last wilderness frontiers. Our Expedition Team will guide you on excursions to witness breathtaking landscapes and wildlife encounters unique to Antarctica, fully included in the cost of your expedition. For those seeking even more adventure, we offer optional activities* such as sea kayaking and camping on the ice. Our Antarctic peninsula expeditions offer a perfect mix of comfort and adventure, allowing you to make memories that will last a lifetime.

Bird Watching

Photography

Polar plunge

Trips ashore

Whale and mammal spotting

Zodiac cruises

Lecture on wildlife, our environment, history and destinations

Add-on Activities

Snowshoeing

Snowshoeing makes walking up gentle slopes and across Antarctica’s soft, powdery snow a breeze allowing you to explore places others struggle to reach. Snowshoeing holidays in the beautiful…

Ski/Snowboard Touring

Ski/snowboard touring offers adventurers a chance to take on some of the word’s most incredible slopes. Ski & snowboarding holidays in the awe-inspiring…

Snorkelling

Witness wildlife and scenery unlike any other place while snorkelling in Antarctica. Aurora Expeditions launched our snorkelling holidays…

Paddling holidays  visiting wild regions on an expedition to Antarctica, Costa Rica and Western Scotland are thrilling in our inflatable kayaks… 

Camping offers you the unique opportunity to roll out your sleeping mat and wriggle into your thermal sleeping bag for a night out on the Antarctic ice…

Alpine Trekking & Climbing

Sea Kayaking

Sea Kayaking is one of the most exhilarating ways to experience Antarctica, the Arctic and beyond. Sea kayaking holidays in the…

Scuba Diving

Explore mysterious underwater worlds in Antarctica, the Arctic and beyond. Aurora Expeditions operated scuba diving holidays…

*Optional add-on activities are available on select voyages. They are listed on each itinerary page and additional fees apply. 

Antarctic Peninsula Cruises FAQs

Exploring the pristine landscapes of the Antarctic Peninsula through a cruise comes with varying costs, influenced by factors such as the selected voyage type, cabin preference, and specific itinerary.

For accurate and detailed pricing information, we recommend reaching out to our friendly team , downloading our latest brochure , or exploring our website .

The duration of a cruise to the Antarctic Peninsula hinges on factors like the chosen itinerary and expedition type, typically spanning from 10 to 20 days or more. Explore our website for details on specific voyages and their durations, ensuring you find the perfect Antarctic Peninsula cruise.

Careful planning is essential when packing for an Antarctica cruise to the Antarctic Peninsula.

Shipboard attire leans towards casual with recommendations such as jeans, long pants, long-sleeved shirts, and jumpers for indoor wear in the polar regions. You’ll want to keep your jacket within reach for spontaneous wildlife sightings.

While formal clothing is unnecessary, some people like to have a more elegant outfit for the Captain’s Farewell drinks.

Every passenger on our Antarctic Peninsula cruises will receive an expedition jacket upon boarding. It’s crucial to pack additional cold and wet weather gear, including waterproof trousers and gloves, for onshore landings.

Refer to our comprehensive packing list , detailing the recommended types of layers and materials suitable for the unique Antarctic Peninsula environment.

Undertaking an Antarctic cruise to the Antarctic Peninsula is an unparalleled, once-in-a-lifetime adventure.

The experience of witnessing the pristine landscapes, unique wildlife, and breathtaking beauty of Antarctica is genuinely extraordinary and unforgettable. Many describe Antarctica as a feeling that eludes description until personally experienced.

Travellers from Australia and New Zealand can typically access Antarctica by flying to South America , where they’ll board a cruise ship destined for the Antarctic Peninsula.

Common departure points include Ushuaia, Argentina, or Punta Arenas, Chile, if flying. Connect with our team for detailed guidance on planning your journey to the Antarctic Peninsula.

The optimal time for an Antarctica cruise to the Antarctic Peninsula is during the austral summer, spanning from November to March. This season promises milder weather, longer daylight hours, and abundant wildlife sightings, ensuring a memorable and comfortable expedition.

Travellers from Australia and New Zealand planning a visit to the Antarctic Peninsula should consult their healthcare provider for guidance on necessary vaccinations and health precautions.

Good health and physical preparedness are crucial for the demands of the expedition.

Aurora Expeditions requires passengers to submit a signed medical form from their healthcare provider during the booking process.

Travellers must adhere to environmental protection guidelines and practice responsible tourism to safeguard Antarctica’s delicate ecosystem throughout their cruise.

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A lot of us say we're open to new experiences  – t o putting the map aside, tasting the strange, diving into the deep end – but how open are we really?

A lot of us say we’re open to new experiences – to putting the map aside, tasting the strange, diving into the deep end. But how open are we really? 

If you’re the type of person who’s constantly chasing the thrill of the unknown, Intrepid's new one-off Uncharted Expedition might be just the adventure you’re looking for. Why? Because on this departure, you won’t know where you’re going. We’ll give you start and finish points, but everything in between will remain a mystery until you get there. 

One day you could be exploring a 3000-year-old volcanic village; the next, fossicking for post-Soviet memorabilia at an open-air flea market, then learning an ancient language that doesn’t involve speech. 

You’ll need to embrace your inner explorer, trust your own adventurous traits, and join us on a journey that is undefined, unmapped, and uncharted. You’ll need to be Intrepid. In fact, you’ll need to be the most Intrepid. 

Join us aboard the Ocean Endeavour for an extraordinary voyage to the Antarctic Peninsula in search of humpback and minke whales, seals and penguins. Meet WWF-Australia’s team of scientists and explorers and spend your days learning about their mission to protect Antarctica’s whale populations. Explore the ice-filled waters by Zodiac then set foot on the rock and ice that makes up this mysterious continent. With a scientific focus on preserving Antarctic wildlife, this is a journey you’ll carry with you for a lifetime.

Spots are limited.

A unique expedition in partnership with WWF-Australia

On the surface, Antarctica’s pristine landscapes may appear untouched but look beneath the waves and you’ll find this beautiful wilderness is under threat. As climate change and krill fishing increase in the Antarctic, local whale populations face growing challenges to their food chain and survival.

Most of the world’s large whale species are found in the Antarctic, among a diverse marine ecosystem of over 9,000 species, more than half of which are seen nowhere else in the world. Now, more than ever, learning more about Antarctica’s whale population is key to their survival. New technologies are helping scientists better understand and map the most important areas where whales feed, so we can protect them before it’s too late.

WWF-Australia, with the support of Intrepid Travel, is collaborating with a team of ecologists to carry out a non-invasive whale research project aboard the Ocean Endeavour designed to grow our understanding of these fascinating creatures.

Protecting the giants of Antarctica

DAYS 1-4 Cross the infamous Drake Passage

Named after the famous English explorer, Sir Francis Drake, this passage of water between Ushuaia and the Antarctic Peninsula is an adventure in its own right. Meet the team of scientists onboard and learn about their conservation mission with insightful seminars. They’ll be joined by our regular team of geologists, biologists and historians. If conditions are calm, enjoy time out on deck spotting dolphins, orcas and albatross.

DAYS 5-8 Explore the Antarctic Peninsula

Spend four incredible days exploring the Antarctic Peninsula with a team of experts. Accompanied by WWF-Australia's researchers, you’ll have the opportunity to learn about non-invasive whale tracking and get incredible insight into the mysteries of whale migrations, feedings and lives beneath the water’s surface. Explore landing sites, bays and channels on Zodiac excursions, keeping a keen eye out for penguin rookeries and whales who greet the surface. Make the most of optional activities, including kayaking and snowshoeing, or choose a slower pace and relax at the onboard spa.  

DAYS 9-11 Return to Ushuaia

Say goodbye to the Antarctic Peninsula as we set off for Ushuaia. Take the opportunity to share photographs with fellow travellers, scout for wildlife once again from on deck and enjoy final lectures from WWF-Australia's onboard team.

WWF-Australia's Giants of Antarctica Expedition was created to support scientific researchers, providing them with safe passage to Antarctica and a base from which to conduct their research on the Ocean Endeavour. The data obtained from these expeditions will directly contribute to our understanding of Antarctica’s whale populations and to developing a conservation strategy.

This is part of Intrepid Travel’s larger commitment to giving back to the planet. In addition to supporting WWF-Australia, we’ve carbon offset every passenger’s journey on the Ocean Endeavour in 2021 and 2022, and we’re investing in sustainable initiatives across the Antarctic region.

Travel with a purpose

With the support of The Intrepid Foundation

Intrepid Travel and WWF-Australia share a commitment to protecting the planet’s natural environments and the wildlife who live in them. That’s why we’ve joined forces to help facilitate whale research in Antarctica – with our not-for-profit  The Intrepid Foundation  supporting WWF-Australia’s  Protecting Antarctic Giants project  over the next two years with  AUD $150,000  in funding. The data collected during the project  will directly contribute to our understanding of Antarctica’s whale populations and to developing  a  conservation strategy.

The itinerary

Giants of Antarctica Expedition

Intrepid Travel and WWF-Australia present

Intrepid Travel is the world’s largest small group adventure tour company.  We believe in travelling in a responsible and sustainable way, while giving back to the destinations we visit by partnering with local communities, employers and staff. In 2018 we became the world’s first travel B Corp, reinforcing our commitment to using travel as a force for good.

In partnership with  WWF-Australia. With the support of The Intrepid Foundation.

[email protected]

Planning Your Antarctica Cruise from Australia

Planning your antarctica cruise from australia.

Antarctica Travel Centre can look after all aspects of your Antarctica cruise from Australia; the voyage, flights, pre and post accommodation, transfers and travel insurance.

We start by asking you lots of questions – where to (just the Antarctic Peninsula, or a voyage with the lot – Antarctica, Falklands & South Georgia), when, for how long, what standard and style of ship or cabin, and whether you have any particular personal interests that may help select the voyage or ship. Once we have a good understanding of just what you’re looking for, we can begin to select the best voyage to meet your time and budget requirements and, most importantly, that will deliver interest and enjoyment in an experience to exceed your expectations.

Please book early: Many of these ships book out 12-18 months in advance, particularly over the December/January period. Please also consider that there may be only a small number of cabins in the category you would prefer.

If you’re thinking of travelling over the Christmas and New Year period our advice is simply to book as early as you can, even a year or more, and we can add flights as soon as they become available.

So, to reiterate, BOOK EARLY to allow us to put together the very best itinerary for you.

The Seasons

In simple terms the Antarctic Peninsula, Falkland Islands and South Georgia open up for exploration in late October and early November and the season runs through until March (i.e. our Australian summer) when the shortening days and encroaching sea ice close this magical place to all but the hardiest visitor.  There is no bad time to go on an Antarctica cruise from Australia and below you’ll find a summary of the three seasons and the benefits of travelling at those times.

Early Season: LATE OCTOBER, NOVEMBER AND EARLY DECEMBER

ANTARCTIC PENINSULA

In October and November the pack ice starts to break up and allows ice-strengthened ships to access a pristine landscape unexplored by humans since March the previous season. So this makes for a unique experience for your Antarctica Cruise from Australia.

As the season progresses more and more penguins (Adelie, chinstrap and gentoo) return to their colonies and are busy at first with courtship and mating and not long after settle to incubate their eggs.

SOUTH GEORGIA

If you would like to witness the dominant bull elephant seals battling for control of a harem of females on the beaches of South Georgia, you must take an early season voyage – leave it too long and the bulls will have headed out to sea. On the Peninsula the penguins are arriving and beginning their courtship displays.  Just as on the Antarctic Peninsula the penguins are also busy courting, mating and laying eggs.  Last seasons juveniles will still be in the colonies.  Wandering Albatross may also be seen re-establishing their bonds with their life-long partners.  Fur seals will be particularly active with females mating soon after giving berth to the new season’s young.

FALKLAND ISLANDS

Just as on the Peninsula and South Georgia activity on the Falklands Islands is well underway in October (being a little further to the North).  Five species of penguin (Rock-hopper gentoo, Magellanic, macaroni and king) will all be busy.  Several migratory bird species will also have arrived.

High Season: DECEMBER, JANUARY AND EARLY FEBRUARY

HIGH SEASON: LATE DECEMBER, JANUARY & EARLY FEBRUARY

As the season progresses the daylight hours increase which all of the Antarctic peninsula’s wildlife makes use of; the beaches and hillsides are now hectic with tens of thousands (sometimes more) of penguins (Adelie, gentoo & chinstrap).  Not all penguins chicks hatch at the same time, as you go further south they generally hatch a little later (also as the tops of hills clear of snow and ice earlier than the base the penguins that grab the ‘top spots’ often have chicks earlier than those at the bottom of the hill).

With both parents at first taking turns to incubate and soon making ever more frequent fishing trips the colonies get busier and the chicks larger.  Chicks grow very quickly and as soon as they are mobile it can be very entertaining, quite chubby, slightly ungainly, hungry juveniles chasing their parents for some more krill.

Seals, skuas, petrels and penguins are all busy attending to their sub-adult young as the short Antarctic ‘summer’ will soon be over. Whales are ever present and as the season progresses they start to become more inquisitive (partially as they’ve been feeding for the last 2 months).

The early season snow will slowly be lost at lower levels (fresh snow can fall at any time), only the peaks will remain snow-capped. This can mean trekking opportunities from your Antarctic cruise from Australia are increased and the weather will always determine what’s possible (safe). Temperatures can vary significantly and over a very short period of time; if it’s sunny and the winds are lights (a relatively rare occurrence) it will be quite warm (10-15 degrees Celsius), if it’s cloudy and there are strong winds and snow it can feel bitterly cold (we’ll advise so you have appropriate clothing).

The beaches of South Georgia are soon littered with fur seal pups. The adult males of fur and elephant seals having completed their task have returned to the southern ocean for a much needed meal (the large bull elephant seals can lose over a third of their body weight during the breeding season).

King Penguins

Many of South Georgia’s beaches are also home to vast colonies of king penguins, several in their tens of thousands. Due to king penguins unsynchronised breeding and a 13-16 month breeding cycle you can usually witness courting, penguins with eggs in pouches above their feet (laid from November to April), brow fluffy chicks and adults throughout the year. The number of young in the colonies fluctuates (highest number in Dec/Jan/Feb) with larger brown fluffy juveniles forming large crèches whilst their parents are ‘gone fishing’.

South Georgia’s other penguins (chinstrap, Gentoo, macaroni) and four albatross species (black-browed, grey-headed, light mantled & wandering) will all be busy raising their chicks during the short Antarctic summer.

As with South Georgia the days are long and the temperatures generally higher (average 12 degrees Celsius). The same systems that eventually reach South Georgia will also affect the Falkland Islands and a warm summer’s day can feel quite like a southern Australian coast (Phillip Island comes to mind) and it can still very occasionally drop below freezing.

Seals (seal lions and elephant seals), penguins (king, Gentoo, rock-hopper, macaroni & Magellanic) and perhaps over half a million black –browed albatross will all be busy raising their young.

Late Season: LATE FEBRUARY & MARCH

LATE SEASON: LATE FEBRUARY & MARCH

Please don’t assume ‘late season’ equates to bad time to go on an Antarctic cruise from Australia – it isn’t. The days are a little shorter and it’s still light for more than 12 hours of the day, plenty of time for all your excursions.

The penguin colonies will have large chicks that are losing their down and preparing to enter the place they are most at home in – the great southern ocean.

Leopard seals are also quite prominent during this time; simply as they know that sub-adult penguins learning to swim are easy prey. Fortunately for the penguins the number of these apex predators is relatively low.

It seems that by the end of February and during March most of the whales that are there for the summer feeding have achieved that goal and have more time to be inquisitive of the other visitors that don’t dive below the surface. Spy-hopping humpbacks are probably the most common easily seen whale species. Six other species can be seen (minke, orca, sei, sperm and very occasionally blue).

The other wonderful place to see whales is near the Antarctic convergence, where the warm northern waters meet to called southern water and this causes an upwelling of nutrient rich water which the whales love.

SOUTH GEORGIA & FALKLAND ISLANDS

Given both Island groups lie much further north (than the Antarctic Peninsula) the breeding seasons are extended a little. King penguin colonies will have sub-adult chicks and late season chicks.

Whales, who have been busy feeding throughout the Antarctic summer, seem to have more time now to investigate their visitors (us!); leopard seals have an easy time catching juvenile penguins who are taking their first swim – and then the brief season abruptly comes to a close.

So, when you are ready to take your Antarctic Cruise from Australia, there are a range of times to choose from, each with varying benefits.

The Weather

It’s difficult to provide a weather chart that would be valuable as Antarctica is a place of extremes. That said, on the Peninsula the daytime temperatures are often well above freezing. There is a saying that is quite apt – “There’s no such thing as bad weather, just inappropriate clothing”. We will advise what you should pack for your Antarctica Cruise from Australia (and what will be provided to you on board) to ensure the above maxim does not apply to you.

The Drake Passage can be the ‘Drake Lake’ (calm) or the ‘Drake Shake’ (rough) although, surprisingly, many voyages have relatively smooth crossings.

We have access to a wide range of wholesale airfares and have excellent relationships with our key airline partners. Our main airline partner is LATAM Airlines.

Irrespective of whether you book directly with us or with your preferred travel agent, we’ll want to know the details of all of your fights – flight times frequently change and we want to make sure your transfers and other arrangements are amended accordingly.

NOTE: We only book flights in conjunction with tailor-made land (and sea) arrangements booked through us – we don’t book just flights, sorry.

• LATAM Airlines
• Air New Zealand
• King Georgia Island Flights

LATAM Airlines have daily services from Sydney to Santiago.  Most flights fly via Auckland, with direct services in conjunction with Qantas.  For those of you who live in, or near to, Melbourne the good news is that LATAM now fly directly to Santiago three times a week.

LATAM Airlines have an new fleet of planes as well as many new airports throughout South America.  If flying to join an Antarctic voyage you will need to fly first to Santiago, Chile’s modern capital, and then onto either Buenos Aires and then Ushuaia, or to Punta Arenas if flying to King George Island, on the Antarctic Peninsula, or to Mount Pleasant in the Falkland Islands to board your chosen ship.

Antarctica Travel Centre & South America Travel Centre have access to wholesale fares and work closely with LATAM Airlines.

QANTAS fly from Sydney directly to Santiago three times a week (currently X Y Z).

It’s worth noting that if you’re adding several flights within South America it’s worth considering flying on one of QANTAS’ codeshare flights with LATAM to enable you to have access to LATAM’s Airpass within South America.  One of our specialists will be happy to explain the benefits as well as booking all of your flights to ensure they link appropriately with your chosen Antarctic voyage.  It is our company policy to have all clients arrive into the departure port/city at least one day prior to the voyage departure date – we do not want you to watch your ‘trip of a lifetime’ sailing down the Beagle Channel without you on-board.

Air New Zealand fly from Auckland to Buenos Aires (Argentina) three times a week.  If you are joining a voyage departing from Ushuaia this can be a good option; as if you fly (with LATAM or QANTAS) via Santiago you still have to fly to Buenos Aires (2 hours) before flying south to Ushuaia (3 hours 35 minutes).

A BAE-146 aircraft is used for flights from Punta Arenas (Chile) to King George Island in the South Shetland Islands.  The plane was manufactured in the UK by British Aerospace (now part of BAE Systems ). It is a high-wing aircraft with very short runway requirements, which makes it particularly suited for landing and take-off in Antarctica. The aircraft is expertly operated by Aerovias DAP, which has more than 20 years of experience flying in Patagonia and Antarctica. Weather effected flight Delays

While very few Antarctica Fly and Cruise departure have ever been cancelled due to weather conditions, some departures have experienced delays of up to three days. It is important that prospective participants understand that weather conditions could impact the operation. Should weather delay a departure, contingency plans will be put into operation. Either leg of the flight can be delayed so flexibility should be allowed when returning home (which is why a night in Punta Arenas either side of your voyage is necessary).

Please also note that as the plane takes a maximum of 70 passengers – larger ships have to utilise two flights – with double the chance of delays on flight days.

There are a wide range of ships to travel on your Antarctica Cruise from Australia.  Visit the ships page to find out what makes each vessel unique.

Roos Sea Antarctic Cruises F rom New Zealand and Australia

Adventure travel, cruises in antarctica with cool antarctica and antarctica travels.

Information : Request Contact | Antarctic travel | more details | fly to Antarctica | FAQ's | clothing | boots Regions : Antarctic Peninsula | South Georgia | South Shetland Islands | Falkland Islands | Arctic

  Travel to the Ross Sea / Commonwealth Bay Region - Eastern Antarctica

Cruises to Eastern Antarctica from Australia and New Zealand usually leave from Invercargill / Port of Bluff in New Zealand ( 2 - map below) Invercargill has an airport, Bluff, 30km away by road has a deep-water port. Less frequently trips may leave from Hobart in Australia 1 . They may also leave/return from Dunedin in New Zealand which is about 180 km / 110 miles from Invercargill.

Departure and return may be to the same port or leave from one and return to the other in either direction. It takes about seven days sailing to reach Antarctica from Australia or New Zealand, the journey there and back is usually broken up with visits to the wildlife rich Macquarie Island 3 and others such as Snares, Auckland and Campbell Islands that lie between Macquarie and New Zealand.

On reaching Antarctica trips usually spend their time either in the Commonwealth Bay area 4 or the Ross Sea region between Cape Adare 5 and McMurdo 6 with possibly a short trip along the front of the Ross Ice Shelf R

1 - Hobart - Australia 2 - Invercargill / Port of Bluff - New Zealand 3 - Macquarie Island 4 - Commonwealth Bay 5 - Cape Adare 6 - McMurdo / Scott bases R - Ross Ice Shelf

• Mount Erebus - t he world's southernmost active volcano.
• Historic huts and sites - from the Heroic Age of Antarctic Exploration from 1898-1922. Scott, Shackleton , Mawson and Borchgrevink's the oldest in Antarctica from the first overwintering here in 1899. These huts were all left behind , sometimes used later or available for emergencies, they are now preserved as historic relics and time capsules that can be visited.
• The Ross Ice Shelf - which presents a 600 km long wall of ice between 15m and 50m high , the world's largest floating ice shelf about the size of France.
• Isolated scientific bases - including the largest in the Antarctic, the American base at McMurdo Sound.
• Emperor Penguins - t he birds of the deep south that rear their young in the depths of the Antarctic winter, the largest of all penguins.
• Sub-Antarctic Islands - o n the way south and on the return journey back north, Snares, Auckland, Macquarie and Campbell islands, these are oases of abundant wildlife, especially bird s which nest here in their almost countless thousands.

In the Wake of Scott and Shackleton, Ross Sea, Antarctica 2025

  Travelling to the Antarctic Peninsula From Australia and New Zealand

If you live in or near Australia or New Zealand it is well worth considering travelling to South America and visiting the Peninsula Region of Antarctica . Also, once you have travelled to South America, there is about half the world in between you and home again with a whole wealth of opportunity to visit many other counties on your outward or return journey .

A trip to the Antarctic Peninsula from South America is much shorter than to the Ross Sea region due to the reduced distance and therefore the length of time spent at sea. If this is your first trip to Antarctica then it may be better to visit the Peninsula where the trips start at 6 days and are less expensive, it is also possible to fly from South America to Antarctica and join your ship there, an option that is not available in Eastern Antarctica. Wildlife is also much more plentiful around the Peninsula so for the majority wanting to see the beautiful scenery, penguins, whales etc. the Peninsula is the best option.

Cruises usually leave from Ushuaia in Argentina, Flights usually leave from Punta Arenas in Chile.

Shorter trips visit the Peninsula 6 and nearby islands such as the South Shetlands 5 . Longer trips may also take in the Falkland Islands 3 and / or South Georgia 4 and possibly some other landings en route.

Cruises most commonly go down the western side of the Peninsula as they are less likely to encounter problematic sea ice that is more often found on the Eastern side in the Weddell Sea.

1 - Ushuaia, Argentina, 2 - Punta Arenas, Chile 3 - Falkland Islands, 4 - South Georgia 5 - South Shetland Islands, 6 - Antarctic Peninsula

Eastern Antarctica, Ross Sea Region v Antarctic Peninsula Cruises

• Remoteness - You will see few if any other ships and get a greater feeling of isolation and being at the end of the world, this is a little visited part of the planet. You are going where the world's biggest icebergs are and the most extreme weather conditions.
• Greater chance of rough seas due to longer spent crossing the open ocean which can take 6-7 days in each direction, no flights available.
• See Emperor Penguins, the birds of the deep south that rear their young in the depths of the Antarctic winter, the largest of all penguin species.
• See Mount Erebus, the world's southernmost active volcano and the Ross Ice Shelf, a 600km long wall of ice between 15m and 50m high.
• Visit the huts of Scott, Shackleton, Mawson and other Heroic Age explorers depending on where your cruise goes. This is the area where much of the early exploratory history of Antarctica was played out and where historical remains still stand.
• Exclusivity - of the people who go to Antarctica, only a small proportion visit regions other than the Peninsula, there are relatively few trips here and they are often fully booked up well in advance.
• Trip length of 26-30 days, sometimes there may be the possibility of a semi-circumnavigation over a similar time period from the Ross Sea to the Peninsula.
• It takes 2 days to cross the Drake Passage to reach the Antarctic Peninsula, rough seas are possible though short-lived, you can also fly across it in 2 hours on a fly-cruise trip.
• Varied mountainous scenery with glaciers and icebergs, some of the most beautiful scenery on earth.
• The most wildlife rich area, with huge penguin colonies, and many other breeding birds, seals are common and whales may be seen. The sub-Antarctic islands you may visit en route are particularly wildlife rich, especially South Georgia.
• Historic preserved British Base, now a working Post Office at Port Lockroy, you may also visit other currently active research bases and historic sites.
• Easier to reach, The closeness of the peninsula to the tip of South America  means that travel time to reach Antarctica here is much less than in the East. It also means that a greater portion of the trip is spent in Antarctica rather than travelling there and back.
• A larger number and variety of trips available, duration from 6-24 days, a wide range of ships and choice of travel dates and itineraries.

Antarctic Peninsula Sample Cruises - 2024 / 2025

Air-cruise, fly the drake sample cruises - 2024 / 2025, south georgia with the falkland islands and / or antarctic peninsula sample cruises - 2024 / 2025, contact me about my trip to antarctica, please complete the form and an antarctic expert will contact you.

Departures from late October to late March

Our partner company, Antarctica Travels , passionately help people to reach their ultimate destination.

All enquiries will be answered from our office in Patagonia, Argentina.

Dozens of trips - unique combinations of ship + itinerary

Choice of ships - 67 to 199 passenger capacity

Prices from $5,900 per person

6 to 28 days

Please note - we cannot help directly to find employment in Antarctica, please do not use this form to request any other information than for Antarctic tourist trips

5 Best Antarctica Tours For 2020 – 2022

It's often called the trip of a lifetime, but for many the cost of getting to Antarctica is off putting due to the huge costs and confusing itineraries which each travel agency claiming to offer the best experiences. So today we decided to look at the best Antarctica tours available.

The secret to travelling to the bottom of the planet, to see the amazing glaciers, snow, sea-life and if you're brave enough, an ice swim, is to book your tour up to 2 years in advance. Doing this, you can secure a cheap tour almost guaranteed. 

If you're ready to get the lowdown on the best Antarctica tours, with maximum satisfaction continue reading below and learn more. Grab your camera , winter gear and book your tour. 

Credit: G Adventures

1. Antarctica Classic

• Operator : G Adventures 
• Duration : 11 Days 
• Ship:  G Expedition
• Starts : Ushuaia
• Group Size: 134

Starting with the best Antarctica tour in our opinion, at the cheapest price of any other Antarctica tours we could find, this 11 day tour has rave reviews from over 200+ previous adventurers, which is quite a lot considering most people never leave positive reviews online. 

The tour begins in Ushuaia and offers 9 nights aboard the semi luxury G Expedition vessel which is a 1B class ship cable of carrying 134 passengers and a handful of crew. 

The G Expedition was recently refurbished in 2009 and offers comfort, space and expertise, along with the latest safety equipment, kayaks, zodiacs and full immersion cold weather survival suits for all passengers and crew on board. 

You'll feel right at home with breakfast, lunch and diner served in the Albatross dining room, with a quiet library and fully stocked polar bear pub bar available too. 

The tour offers a choice of 5 different cabins where you'll either stay alone, with a friend or as a group. Depending on your budget you can opt for an internal room with a small window or something larger. 

The tour begins on the second day where you'll leave the mainland behind before sailing through the Beagle Channel and on to the Drake Passage with a 1000km crossing named in honour of Sir Francis Drake from the 16th-century. 

The drake passage is well known for it's abundant wildlife including whales and albatross, as well as your first glimpse of ice bergs. 

Days 5- will see you experience the South Shetland Islands and Antarctic Peninsula where (weather permitting) you'll get two shore landings per day to encounter Gentoo, Adelie penguin rookeries, Weddell, crabeater, leopard seals, orca, humpback and minke whales. 

It's important to note that you need to add kayaking to your package which costs $1289 per day or ice camping ($499+) which is pretty pricey but is a full day experience accompanied by skilled guides. You must book this prior to your trip to ensure enough kayaks are loaded on to the ship. 

If you're looking for the best budget Antarctica tour, this is definitely the one for you. If you book far enough in advance you can score yourself a seriously discounted adventure of a lifetime. 

2. Quest For The Antarctic Circle

• Operator : G Adventures
• Duration:  14 Days
• Ship : G Expedition
• Group Size : 134
• WiFi : Yes 

This tour follows the same style as the Antarctica Classic with the main difference that they include a couple of days down in the Antarctic Circle. While most tours turn back, this one will have you going further south than 99.9% of the other travellers that make it down there. 

You'll get to experience some colossal icebergs as well as countless numbers of penguins, who travel together in large colonies. You'll eventually push on and actually cross the Polar Circle. 

Once you've done that your tour will return via the Drake Passage back to Ushuaia. 

If you want to experience the Polar Circle then you need to spend the extra money and purchase this tour, which turns in to a 14 day tour instead of 12 days. 

You'll still be able to take advantage of the same excursions such as ice camping and kayaking which both need to be booked prior to the tour start date. 

If you can spare two extra days and have the cash, this is the a good budget tour to consider.  

Credit: Tourradar

3. Best of Antarctica

• Operator : Intrepid
• Duration : 11 Days
• Ship : Ocean Endeavour
• Group Size : 200

Intrepid tours offer their own version of the G-Adventures classic, aboard their own vessel called the Ocean Endeavour, which is their largest boat capable of carrying up to 200 passengers. 

A larger vessel than other expedition ships, it is equipped with more luxuries such as saunas, heated salt water swimming pool, gym's and yoga space. Additionally there is a spa on board.

Cabins are more luxurious too, all coming with ensuite facilities and external views (except single interior state rooms). Cabins are also serviced daily, much like a true cruise ship. 

An on board bar and dining room is the perfect place to get acquainted with your fellow travellers, as well as eating breakfast, lunch and dinner which is provided. 

Similar to other days, the boat departs on the second day and you'll spend 9 nights on board. The first few days will be cruising down the Beagle Channel and into the Drake Passage. 

By the end of day four and hopefully after seeing a lot of marine wildlife, you'll make it to dry land, where your excursions will begin. They offer 2 per day, weather permitting.

The best excursions are definitely the Zodiacs which whizz through the water and get you close to the wildlife which include penguin rookeries, spot humback and minke whales and if you're lucky maybe even some leopard seals.

You can book excursions such as kayaking, stand up paddleboarding, ice camping, cross country skiing, mountaineering and snowshoweing on various departures so be sure to check at the time of booking and add these to your itinerary. 

This tour doesn't cross the Polar circle and on day eight actually starts the return journey to Ushuaia. During the three days at sea you can make use of the on board facilities and share those all important photos with your new travel buddies. 

Credit: Antarctica21

4. Antarctica Express Air Cruise

• Operator : Antarctica21
• Duration : 6 Days
• Ship : Various
• Group Size : 72

Antarctica21 offers some of the most affordable sail in fly out Antarctica expedition tours at very affordable prices. When you sit down and work everything out they are actually similar to full 9 day tours, but you only have to cross the Drake Passage once.  

They offer various departure dates in 2020 and 2021 and use various 72 passenger vessels including Ocean Nova, Hebridean Sky and Magellan Explorer. 

These vessels are all very modern indeed with the Megellan Explorer only being launched this year and features a stylish design and luxurious cabins. 

Ocean Nova is also fairly modern and features a ton of tech to ensure you have a safe journey. 

By only offering comfort for up to 72 passengers, some of which will actually fly to and from Drake Passage, you've got a really small and quiet ship, that makes the experience much more enjoyable.

You'll journey down the Beagle Channel and Drake Passage and also board a Zodiac at Cape Horn if the weathers on your side. 

Down at the South Shetland Islands you'll enjoy more Zodiac excursions as you visit a penguin colony and take endless photos of the ice bergs, glaciers and wildlife. 

The boat then continues to King George Island where you'll walk through Chile's Frei Station and Russia's Bellingshausen station directly to your awaiting plane. This small plane will fly you all the way back to Punta Arenas, Chile. 

You can also choose a seat on the plane, window? for an extra $245 USD. 

This tour also offers on board lectures and programs by expert naturalist guides as well as how to take the best photography. 

5. South Shetlands + Antarctic

• Operator : Albatros
• Duration : 10 Days
• Ship : Ocean Atlantic

The last tour we're looking at is a 9 night tour that starts on the very first day and heads straight for the Beagle Channel and on to the Drake Passage. 

This tour spends 2 days in the South Shetland Islands with landfalls in King George Island, Deception Island and Half Moon Island. Weather depending you'll get on to land and checkout the extint volcano of Deception as well as see nesting Wilson's storm petrels and chinstrap penguins. 

The tour then proceeds to the Antarctic Peninsula where you'll get to head out on the Zodiacs and kayaks, weather depending of course and even go for a swim, attached to a rope!

The vessel then returns to Ushuaia and you'll enjoy a few days at sea before disembarking. 

The Ocean Atlantic is an expedition vessel with an ice-strengthened hull that was recently renovated and offers capacity for 200 passengers. On board you'll find a gym, libary, lecture theatre for on board learning, a polar boutique and a sundeck for observation. 

Below deck there's a fully stocked and staffed bar, a nautical lounge and a TV room. Readers rejoice over a library and there's a dining room for your breakfast, lunch and dinner. 

If you want to explore the South Shetland Islands then this budget tour is a good idea as most don't stop off here, instead heading straight for the Polar Circle or Peninsula. 

Choosing The Best Antarctica Tour

When looking for the best tours, it can be difficult to look at what you want to experience. Ultimately the best experiences are usually reserved for those with the deepest pockets, however you should look at what your budget can afford and then look at the various options. 

Just because you're on a budget doesn't mean you can't enjoy the same as those on longer, more luxurious tours. Ultimately you may have to trade different features for different experiences. 

Below we'll look at different factors to consider when choosing your Antarctica cruise. 

Length of Tour

The first thing you'll want to consider when choosing an Antarctica tour is how long you've got to work with. At a minimum you'd be looking at 9 nights away from dry land. 

This is due to the time required to cross the Drake Passage from Ushuaia , where most tours actually start. This is the lowest port in Argentina that connects passengers from flights to their cruise ships. 

If you're short on time then you can find some operators that allow you to take a flight from Argentina down to King George Island in Antarctica and join your ship there. It's actually pretty uncommon for those on a budget to fly as the cost can be huge. 

Shorter tours almost never stop at additional ports such as the Falklands or South Georgia Islands, so if you want to visit those locations you'll need to choose a longer tour. 

Unlike a traditional cruise ship, most tours are fixed, meaning you can't simply extend the tour to visit another port. You'll likely need to agree to a fixed length during the time of booking. You can often add land based excursions or additional nights if required.

Style of Tour

Nearly all budget tours start from Ushuaia in Argentina which means you'll need to get to this city from your hometown in Australia. This can add to your costs dramatically, especially during peak time. Flying in economy class can still add thousands to the price of your cruise. 

With that said you should look at the price of tours departing from New Zealand as well. While they are infrequent, you might actually find a longer tour that works out to the same price once you factor in all your costs. 

Most people combine their tour with a holiday in Argentina, such as Buenos Aires. 

Tours are usually split up into two main categories, Ice Cruises or Expedition Cruises.

Expedition cruises are often the preferred option among travellers as you get a hands on tour which often includes Zodiac boat tours, walking on the ice, swimming and tracking wildlife. Many tours also include on board conservation studies, lectures and access to scientists. 

Ice cruises are luxury cruises to Antarctica and include access to better facilities, more comfortable accommodation and better dining. It's unlikely any water based activities take place and is a more relaxing and photogenic approach to travel. 

In a more recent trend, some tour operators combine both ice cruises and expeditions to give travellers a little bit of both. 

On board Accommodation

If you're on a budget you can save a lot of money by choosing an older vessel with very few, if any, luxuries on board. This might be sharing with a person you've never met before or sleeping in a dorm room. 

For those looking for more comfort but still within a budget, travelling with a companion and sharing a twin room can lower your costs. While single rooms do exist, there's often a surcharge for having such a room. This can be expensive, especially if the tour is popular. 

Most ships are fairly old and won't have the luxury modcons that you see on Caribbean cruise ships, but offer a more rustic and heritage instead. 

Most tours are small in comparison with larger cruise ships you'd experience in Europe. On average Expedition cruises usually accommodate 100 - 150 passengers. 

Some of the larger ships can accommodate much more (up to 500 at a time), although these are likely to be Ice Cruises instead. Other smaller research trips may only have 30-50 passengers. 

The disadvantage to larger ships is that according to rules set out by the International Association of Antarctic Tour Operators ( IAATO ), only 100 passengers can disembark the vessel at any one time. This means you'll likely need to take turns when partaking in land or water based excursions. 

That's another benefit to choosing an expedition cruise as they often have two groups and you'll go out and return at a set time, ensuring everyone gets the same experience level. 

Ship Ice Rating

You can't take any cruise ship down to the antarctic because it would probably sink as soon as a piece of ice went through the hull. All the boats that offer tours down there are specialised and have reinforcements made to their hulls.

Some are specifically designed to be operated as ice breakers which are even safer. Most ships offer a ranking based on the Swedish Ice Class which uses 1A Super, 1A, 1B and 1C to determine the level of strength in the stern and hull. 

While some tourists are confident they aren't going on any ship that isn't 1A Super, most of the budget ships are often 1A and 1B instead. However, regardless of the ice rating, there have been very few fatal accidents concerning boats down in Antarctica lately. 

Tour Activities & Excursions

Why go all that way and not even get off the ship? If that's what you want then choosing an Ice Cruise is perfect but for those of you looking for once in a lifetime activities, you'll be pleased to know there is a wide range of Antarctica excursions and activities on offer.

Most common is Zodiac tours where you'll head out on the water on small rafts with engines that are capable of high speeds. From these boats you can get up close to wildlife such as whales and also glaciers. Taking photos from these boats is amazing. 

Most expedition boats also offer kayaking in the form of sea kayaks. These are usually 2 or 3 person and offer pedals for aiding with your steering. Life jackets and drysuits are nearly always included and should be worn at all times. 

Less popular is helicopter excursions which can be expensive but a once in a lifetime opportunity should you have good weather and visibility. 

Another popular activity on longer tours is the ability to camp on the ice, sleeping in high tech sleeping bags and then returning to the ship the next morning for a hot shower. 

Other activities such as snow shoeing and skiing is also possible on some tours. Additionally you can even go for an ice bath (I give you 15 seconds in the water) or take a snorkelling tour. 

There will be endless photo opportunities and longer tours always spend more time taking excursions on the Antarctic peninsula. 

Research & Charitable Work

While most tours offer on board scientists and research academics, you might be able to join tours that are heading down to perform specific research or charity work. 

This is especially common on tours that leave from Wellington or Bluff in New Zealand. While getting on such a tour can be difficult, you can always be on the look out. 

If you want to learn more about the environment or local wildlife, nearly all tour operators offer some form of education on the days at sea, when there's not much else to do except stare at the endless scenery or get to know your fellow adventurers. 

Travel Insurance For The Best Antarctica Tours

While most tour operators offer some form of insurance, you will need your own emergency medical evacuation insurance before you'll be allowed on board. The minimum recommended coverage is at least $100,000 USD per person. 

However, you probably want to look at coverage of at least $1 million dollars. Getting air lifted out of the Antarctic by helicopter or plane from a foreign country is bound to cost a fortune so ensure you have adequate cover that covers medical evacuation. 

You should purchase your travel insurance as soon as possible after purchasing your tour. Don't wait until you're heading to the airport, or worse, actually in Agrentina. 

You can check out the best cruise ship insurance providers here.

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Destination

Antarctica Tours from NZ and Australia

Cruising to antarctica from new zealand / australia.

Sail south from New Zealand to the remote and icy wonderland of Antarctica. Discover a place unlike any other, where nature reigns supreme and every moment is filled with wonder and amazement.

There are cruises to Antarctica that depart from New Zealand, although most Antarctic tours depart from Ushuaia, in Argentina. South America is closer to Antarctica than New Zealand is, so Antarctic cruises that depart from South America are less expensive, and therefore more popular.

However, New Zealand or Australia are great gateways to discover this amazing land of ice, with possible stops at sub-Antarctic islands such as Macquarie, Snares, Auckland and Campbell Islands. By visiting the eastern part of Antarctica, you’re guaranteed to experience a very remote location. Named “home of the blizzard” by Sir Douglas Mawson during the 1911-1913 Australasian Antarctic Expedition, very little of this part of Antarctica is not covered with ice.

Bustling with wildlife, East Antarctica is home to incredible animals. Get up close with penguins, or witness many different species of birds, seals and whales.  Generally higher in altitude than west Antarctica, you’ll be amazed to discover the immensity of the glaciers and snow-covered mountains.

Just starting to plan your Antarctic adventure? Read our  Ultimate Antarctica Guide    to learn more about travelling to this incredible bucket-list destination.

What wildlife can be seen in the Antarctic Circle?

The most famous animal in Antarctica is the penguin, 17 species in total. Different species of birds, whales , killer whales, dolphins and seals can also be seen. A paradise for animal lovers. 

What is the weather like in Antarctica?

The lowest temperature ever recorded was in July 1983 at -89.2 degrees Celsius. The average annual temperature is about -10 on the Antarctic Coast . However, our tours run in summer, from late October until March, known to be the warmest months at about 0 degrees.

Do I need to be fit to cross the Antarctic Circle?

Being fit is not a must, however, being in a good health is necessary. You need to be able to get in and out of zodiacs during land expeditions , knowing that it can be slippery. A doctor is on board during the tour, but you are still a long way from any other medical assistance.

Do I need a visa to travel to East Antarctica?

A pre-arranged visa is not required to enter Antarctica from Australia and New Zealand. 

How long will it take to reach East Antarctica?

Cruises to Antarctica from Tasmania or New Zealand take longer than going from Ushuaia. It is possible to reach Antarctica in 6 or 7 days. Most voyages include a break by visiting The Snares, Auckland Islands, Macquarie Island and Campbell Island.

Is it safe to travel to Antarctica?

All our tours are 100% tried and tested to ensure that when you travel with us, you are doing so in a controlled and safe environment with trained experts. Also, one of our biggest concerns is the weather conditions to ensure you have the best adventure without risk of injuries to you or the vessel. For your safety, activities may occasionally need to be rescheduled or cancelled.

Destination Map

Learn more about travelling to Antarctica

Recommended Tours

Small Ship Cruising: Small ship expedition cruises are a wonderful way to explore. Choose from Antarctica cruises & Sub-Antarctic Island cruises, Arctic cruises or sail the Patagonian Fiords, Galapagos Islands Cruising or New Zealand’s wonderful Fiordland.

Wildlife and Nature: Our wildlife and nature holidays will take you to some of the most remote and unspoilt regions. From encountering rich exotic wildlife in Latin America and Africa to the magnificent marine life in Antarctica and spotting spectacular birds in New Zealand.

Scott & Shackleton's Antarctica Ross Sea

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• Antarctica from NZ & AU

Voyage from New Zealand on an epic Antarctica expedition. Explore surreal landscapes, discover wildlife, & the historic huts of Scott & Shackleton

Luxury: We design unique luxury holidays and experiences that allow you to experience the most spectacular and remote parts of the World. From the best hotels and lodges to luxury small ship cruises and exclusive Heli-tours.

New Zealand's Sub Antarctic & Macquarie Island

• Sub Antarctic Islands & Cruises

Visit some of the most unspoiled environments on Earth: New Zealand's Sub Antarctic Islands & Australia's Macquarie Island

In the Wake of Scott & Shackleton: Antarctica

Antarctica cruise from New Zealand. Visit the Ross Sea region of Antarctica and New Zealand's Sub antarctic Islands, plus Macquarie Island

Galapagos of the Southern Ocean Ex Hobart

This is without doubt one of the most inspirational and informative expeditions to the Sub Antarctic Island south of New Zealand.

Some of the main attractions

Antarctica is a destination that not many people get to experience. Be adventurous and experience a trip of a lifetime.

Macquarie Islands

Spot Royal Penguins. The raw beauty of the landscapes and abundance of wildlife makes it a must visit destination during a tour to Antarctica.

Campbell Island

Described as a nature reserve, unspoilt land where you can witness birds as it is the most important place of breeding for the Southern Royal Albatross.

This region of Antarctica is one of the most untouched environments in the world, visit Ross Island, where you may be able to see Mount Erebus, it is also home to the biggest scientific station of Antarctica, American McMurdo

Snares Islands

The Snares Islands are part of the New Zealand Subantarctic World Heritage Site. No landings are permitted on The Snares but Zodiac cruising gives great views of the three of endemics; the Snares Crested Penguin, the Snares Tomtit and the Fernbird.

Auckland Islands

Home to many species of plants and animals not found anywhere else in the world, despite hostile weather. Because they are rarely visited, the islands are in near-virgin condition and have the richest flora of all the Subantarctic Islands.

Our Vessels

Heritage Adventurer

140 Passengers

264 (200 in Antarctica) Passengers

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Antarctica Cruises & Tours

Explore Antarctica on an out-of-this-world adventure 

With us, it’s good trips only. And as far as good old-fashioned adventures go, this is the big one. You’ll cross the infamous Drake Passage and set foot on the Antarctic Peninsula. Explore ice-dotted bays by Zodiac. Marvel at waddling gentoo penguins and spot migrating blue whales. The reasons why you should visit Antarctica are endless. By traveling with us, you'll experience this incredible part of the world in a way that builds human connection and gets closer to nature while respecting the environment. 

'Antarctic cruises' doesn't really do it justice. These are Antarctic adventures. 

Our Antarctica trips

The ocean endeavour: inside our expedition ship.

The Ocean Endeavour, is built tough to withstand even the harshest conditions, yet provides additional comforts like warm, 3-course meals, spacious common areas and extra amenities – including our day spa. With an enviable 1:8 crew-to-passenger ratio, you’ll enjoy a more personal, informative and comfortable trip. 

Why choose us

Our Ocean Endeavour is built tough; designed to handle the harsh Antarctic wilderness with ease while ensuring your safety at every step of the adventure.

Our experienced expedition team are at the top of their fields. You’ll find out everything you want to know from our Antarctic experts, including naturalists and ornithologists.  

We don’t call them hands-on, feet-on adventures for nothing. Get closer to the action with, not one, but two daily excursions on land and, via Zodiacs, at sea. 

Our onboard creature comforts will warm you up after your Antarctic outings. Expect 3-course meals, 24/7 tea and coffee and fascinating evening seminars.  

We’re committed to providing the highest safety standards, which is why the Ocean Endeavour, and all our operations teams undergo regular safety audits.

We’re deeply committed to being a responsible business and take considered steps to minimize our impact, support vital research and promote conservation in the Antarctic.  

Antarctica tour reviews

Filter by rating

Journey to the Antarctic Circle (Ocean Endeavour)

12 hours in the shoes (or muck boots) of a traveller visiting Antarctica  

When your day job is leading expeditions to the bottom of the earth in Antarctica 

Globetrotters share what it’s like to spend your birthday with Intrepid

This is what it’s like to collaborate with real scientists in Antarctica

Everything you need to know about the Ocean Endeavour

Arctic vs Antarctic cruises: How to choose your polar expedition

The 10 Antarctica questions you want answered

Pro tips and travel tales from Antarctica photography guide Andrew Miller

Antarctica Optional Experiences

Antarctica Camping

Polar Kayaking Adventures

Antarctica Snowshoeing

Antarctica photography

Antarctica Day Paddle

Antarctica Stand-up Paddleboarding

Extend your adventure

Beyond the Ocean Endeavour

Popular regions

Antarctica at a glance.

(UTC+13:00) New Zealand

CALLING CODE

Electricity.

Type A (North American/Japanese 2-pin) Type B (American 3-pin)

Learn more about Antarctica

Eating and drinking.

Eating and drinking in Antarctica is done aboard your expedition ship, with all meals provided for the duration of your journey. Tea and coffee, as well as soft drinks and juices, are ready to greet you when you come back from a shore landing and at meal times, while alcoholic beverages are also available, but for an additional price.

Breakfasts and lunches tend to be buffet style, while dinners are typically served tableside and usually feature three courses. The range of food is diverse, with professional chefs preparing a wide selection of gourmet dishes, and a vegetarian option is always included. Afternoon tea, with pastries or cookies, is also provided every day.

If you have any dietary requirements or food allergies, please let us know before the trip starts. If you have a more restrictive dietary requirement (vegan, gluten intolerance, fructose intolerance, etc) it is likely you can be catered for. Unfortunately, we are unable to cater for a kosher diet.

There may not be any stores on the Antarctic Peninsula, but that doesn't mean you can't do any shopping. The Ocean Endeavour has its very own polar boutique equipped with every little knickknack and thingamabob you might need to help commemorate your journey to the seventh continent (think all the essentials, clothing and souvenirs).

Geography and environment

Encompassed by the Antarctic convergence (an uneven line of latitude where the cold waters of the Antarctic merge with the warmer waters of the world's oceans), Antarctica is both cold and remote, located in the Southern Hemisphere. Due to its south-polar position, the Antarctic continent is covered in ice and experiences very harsh conditions unsuitable for permanent human residency.

While plenty of animals live in Antarctica (such as various species of whale, penguin, seal and bird), there are very few humans that call Antarctica home, instead using the region as a base for research. There are no cities in Antarctica but there are several research stations positioned on the continent belonging to various countries like Russia, the United States and Australia.

History and government

Antarctica was formed around 35 million years ago and remained undiscovered until around 1820 when Russian explorers spotted the mainland. However, this may have only been the first documented discovery of Antarctica, as it's believed that Pacific Islanders may have reached the white continent in 650 AD.

There were many attempts to set foot at the South Pole in the early 20th century, so much so that it was dubbed the 'Heroic Age of Antarctic Exploration', with many trying and failing until a Norwegian explorer by the name of Roald Amundsen reached in 1911. Exploration didn't stop there though with a total of 17 major expeditions launched in the following years from 10 different countries, the last one being Ernest Shackleton's last ill-fated voyage in 1917.

Antarctica isn't owned by one single country, instead governed internationally through the Antarctic Treaty system signed in 1959 by 12 countries who had sent scientists to Antarctica during and around that time. These countries included Argentina, Australia, France, Japan, New Zealand, the United States, and the United Kingdom.

Further reading

Antarctica travel faqs, where is antarctica.

Antarctica refers to the seventh continent of the world and is largely situated in the Antarctic Circle - a line of latitude sitting at around 66.5° south of the equator - at the base of the globe.

The Antarctic refers to the region made up of south polar zones that include the seas and some outlying islands. 

What country is Antarctica in?

Antarctica isn't part of one single country, rather it is a continent governed under a series of recognized guidelines and agreements called the Antarctic Treaty System.

What are the possible landing sites in Antarctica?

Each expedition includes stops at various landing sites around the Antarctic but when you stop at them and for how long often depends on the weather, as well as sea ice and wildlife movement. 

What types of animals live in Antarctica?

While Antarctica may not be hospitable to human life, there are plenty of animal species that call the seventh continent their home. This includes penguins, whales, sea birds, seals, and more. 

What is it like travelling solo on a cruise to Antarctica?

While you can't embark on an expedition to the world's seventh continent alone, you can travel solo on a group tour to Antarctica.

This means you'll still have plenty of free time to do your own thing (and use the ship's excellent amenities) but also have the comfort of knowing expert leaders are handling the pesky logistics.

You can also choose from a variety of accommodation arrangements, from single cabins to room-sharing, depending on your preference. 

When is the best time to visit Antarctica?

Antarctica is best visited in the summer months from November to March when the weather is warmer and the sea ice has melted enough to get closer to the island shore.

What is the weather like in Antarctica?

The climate in Antarctica is the coldest one on Earth with cold summers and freezing winters. The warmest month is January with averages of around 50°F.

What do I wear in Antarctica?

You have to be prepared and thorough when packing for Antarctica due to its remote location. Make sure you bring lots of layers, gloves, sunscreen, and moisturizer among other items.

Is there internet, wi-fi, email or telephone access available on the ships?

Internet access is available on most Antarctic ships, at a cost. Alternatively, there may be a ship-based email system where you will have an email account to stay in touch with family and friends. Because of the remoteness of Antarctica, connections can be slow, so all ships charge for data used rather than time spent online. Please refer to your detailed pre-departure information for more information on Internet facilities on your ship.

Will my cell phone work in Antarctica? 

Your cell phone will not work during your Antarctica cruise as the continent is still considered extremely remote and doesn't have the right telecommunication infrastructure in place.

Can my family and friends contact me while I’m on board in the case of an emergency at home?

Yes. There is a number to call the ship and you can purchase data for the wi-fi onboard, although the connection is intermittent and not to be relied on.

How do I choose an Antarctic cruise?

Deciding on the Antarctic cruise that suits you best comes down to figuring out the time of year you want to go, the itinerary, and how long you want the cruise to be.

How much does a cruise to Antarctica cost?

The cost of an Antarctica cruise largely depends on the departure date, how long the cruise goes for, and the type of cabin you book on the ship but most cruises start from USD$4,500.

How fit do I need to be to travel to Antarctica?

While the destination itself might conjure up images of nefarious voyages only the fittest can endure, you only need to be in good health and be able to move around freely to participate in and enjoy Antarctica's numerous activities and adventures.

If you have an average fitness level (and above) you are compatible with Antarctica travel, so you don't need to spend hours in the gym before considering booking a trip. 

How do we meet our responsible travel targets in Antarctica?

This question is something we thought long and hard about before deciding to run our own ship in Antarctica. We’re deeply committed to being a responsible business and understanding the impact we have on the places we visit. All Intrepid trips are  100% carbon neutral , but we are driven to do more, from committing to science-based decarbonisation targets to and recently updating our  Seven-point Climate Action Plan . 

We’ve approached responsible travel in Antarctica with three areas of focus that we believe will create the greatest positive impact: inspiring travellers, supporting science and protecting the environment. 

Does my trip to Antarctica support The Intrepid Foundation?

Yes, all Intrepid trips support the Intrepid Foundation. In fact, we make a donation on behalf of every traveller. Trips to Antarctica directly support our foundation partner, WWF.

WWF-Australia is a well-established conservation organisation helping protect our natural environment. Donations from our trips help their pioneering whale research and conservation efforts to establish marine protected areas around Antarctica and save whale species from extinction. 

Intrepid will double the impact by dollar-matching all post-trip donations made to The Intrepid Foundation.

Want to learn more about Antarctica?

Want more of a taste of what an adventure to the Great White Continent would be like? Our free guidebook shows you what wildlife you might see, the places you might go, how to be a responsible traveler, gives you tips on what to pack and more.  

Full list of Antarctica FAQs

If your question has'nt been answered,   read our full list of Antarctica FAQs   or contact us.

Can’t find what you’re looking for or want to know more? You can  contact us  24 hours 7 days a week, with any burning (or shall we say freezing?) questions. Our Antarctic specialists are here to help.

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• Antarctica Cruises from Australia and New Zealand
• WHY CHOOSE CHIMU ADVENTURES
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• FEATURED CRUISES

TRAVELLING TO Antarctica Cruises from Australia and New Zealand

Travelling to Antarctica from Australia and New Zealand can be achieved a few ways, either fly to South America or depart directly on your Antarctica cruise from Australia or New Zealand.

The most popular and affordable Antarctic journey is to fly to Argentina and board your ship in the southernmost city of the world, Ushuaia. From here you can visit the Antarctic Peninsula as well as the sub Antarctic islands such as South Georgia and the Falkland islands on your Antarctic cruise. A cruise will take anywhere from 10 to 21 days when leaving from Ushuaia, if crossing directly to the peninsula you can be there in as soon as one and a half to two days.

The Antarctic Peninsula is the most popular due to accessibility and for the plethora of wildlife found. The coast offers a dramatic mountainous backdrop being an extension of the Andes Mountain range. The entire region including the sub Antarctic Islands is home to incredible history including Shackleton’s epic journey of survival.

Australia and New Zealand themselves also act as gateways to the lesser frequented East Antarctica leaving from Australia (Hobart) or New Zealand (Invercargill or Bluff) it will take about seven days to arrive to the white continent, which can be broken up by visits to Macquarie, Snares, Auckland and Campbell Islands, all rich in wildlife and nature. Once having arrived to Antarctica, you will spend time around Commonwealth Bay or the Ross Sea region.

A cruise to Antarctica from Australia and New Zealand offers the opportunity to witness the immense natural landscapes and seascapes of this incredibly remote yet ruggedly beautiful part of Antarctica and the best chance to see emperor and king penguins. Steeped in history, East Antarctica is where the explorers Scott, Shackleton and Amundsen gained fame with their expeditions to be the first to reach the South Pole. This part of Antarctica is also home to the historic Mawson’s Huts at Commonwealth Bay.

If you’re interested in Antarctica cruises out of South America, please visit our main Antarctica Cruise page here

To help you decide where you want to visit. Click on the trips below and start dreaming about your Antarctic cruise.

WHY TRAVEL WITH CHIMU ADVENTURES

We are true Polar specialists. Almost every Chimu team member has travelled to either Antarctica or the Arctic and collectively we have experienced over 50 expeditions.

You can choose from over 130 cruises to Antarctica and the Arctic,including itineraries aboard our own charter vessels.

We have inspected and continue to thoroughly research each individual vessel we work with, selecting only those with environmental, safety and value credentials.

We know all things Polar by heart and will work with you to determine which ship and itinerary is best suited to your needs.

Travellers visit the Polar regions for different reasons so whether your interests are wildlife or photography, or Antarctic activities such as snowshoeing and kayaking, we can work around you for the perfect trip.

From your initial enquiry until your trip ends, you will be assigned a personal Destination Specialist who will offer a full service for your travel needs: we can book flights, insurance and any ancillary travel required to complete your journey.

FEATURED Antarctica Cruises from Australia and New Zealand TRIPS & DEALS

Antarctica : cruise direct from australia and new zealand, ross sea expedition: dunedin to dunedin.

Subantarctic Islands of New Zealand & Antarctica

SHIP: Le Soleal

START: Dunedin, New Zealand

FINISH: Dunedin, New Zealand

PRICED FROM

USD 24,450*

Expedition to New Zealand's Subantarctic Islands

New Zealand & Subantarctic Islands

USD 15,940*

Forgotten Islands of the South Pacific

Subantarctic Islands of New Zealand

SHIP: Heritage Adventurer

START: Invercargill, New Zealand

FINISH: Invercargill, New Zealand

Galapagos of the Southern Ocean

START: Queenstown, New Zealand

FINISH: Queenstown, New Zealand

Best of Antarctica

Antarctic Peninsula

SHIP: Ocean Endeavour

START: Ushuaia, Argentina

FINISH: Ushuaia, Argentina

PRICED FROM Was USD 8,399

NOW USD 7,139*

Best of Antarctica: In Depth

Antarctic Sound, Lemaire Channel, Antarctic Peninsula and…

PRICED FROM Was USD 11,849

NOW USD 10,072*

Antarctica Cruises from Australia and New Zealand REVIEWS

All Chimu Adventures' clients are given the opportunity to review their trip once they return home. These reviews are administered by a third party and as such are unfiltered by Chimu Adventures.

BLOGS ON Antarctica Cruises from Australia and New Zealand

Whether you are looking for advice on when to travel to Antarctica or the Arctic, which ship to travel on or which itinerary will suit you best, Chimu blogs are likely to have it covered. The range of topics is vast, with new and fascinating blogs being added regularly. There is ship information, guides about the activities you can do in the Polar regions, what to pack and what not to pack, and even blogs on various Polar explorers!

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

1 . what are the chances of getting into scott’s hut.

Scott’s Hut is located on Ross Island, on the north shore of Cape Evans. Scott’s Discovery Expedition Hut is located at Hut Point on Ross Island, near to McMurdo Station, the US Antarctic Research Station and Base. Access to the huts is completely dependent on ice and weather conditions, and although every effort will be made to visit the huts, this cannot be guaranteed. In recent years the success rate of visiting Scott’s Hut has been high.

2 . Do I need to be fit to go to East Antarctica?

A high level of fitness is not necessary for cruises to Antarctica from Australia and New Zealand, but you need to be in good health as although there is generally a doctor on board the ships, you are a long way from any other medical assistance. The majority of activities are focused around shore excursions and zodiac cruising and so you need to be agile and able-bodied enough to climb into and out of the inflatable zodiacs from both the ship and the shore. On shore landings you may need to negotiate uneven and slippery ground. Shore excursions generally involve some walking

3 . Is it safe to travel to East Antarctica and the Ross Sea?

All of our tours are 100% tried and tested to ensure that when you travel with us, you are doing so in a controlled and safe environment with trained experts. We consistently monitor weather conditions and will always provide you with the best possible adventure without risk of injury to you or the vessel. While some landings and activities may need to be rescheduled or cancelled due to weather, every effort is made to have a contingency plan should such conditions become a reality during your expedition. Chimu have been the experts in Antarctic travel for well over 10 years and use our vast experience and knowledge when picking the vessels we sell to provide you with an adventure that is unforgettable for all the right reasons.

4 . Do I need a visa to travel to East Antarctica?

A pre-arranged visa is not required to enter Antarctica from Australia and New Zealand.

5 . How long will it take to reach East Antarctica?

Cruises to Antarctica from Tasmania (Hobart) and to Antarctica from New Zealand (Invercargill or Bluff) can reach East Antarctica in 6 to 7 days, but most voyages break up the days at sea with visits to The Snares, Auckland Islands, Macquarie Island and Campbell Island.

6 . What are the chances of seeing the Mawson’s Huts?

Unfortunately we cannot guarantee that you will be able to see Mawson’s Huts. The presence of two immense icebergs had blocked access to Commonwealth Bay for many years. In January 2016, Chimu Adventures operated the first commercial expedition to the site for 5 years, after the two icebergs finally shifted. Although access to Commonwealth Bay was possible, the huts could not be reached due to the ice floe. Cape Denison in Commonwealth Bay where the timber huts are located, is known as the “home of the blizzard”, one of the windiest places on Earth, with frequent strong katabatic winds. Your chances of seeing Mawson’s Huts will always depend on the weather and ice conditions and the accessibility of Commonwealth Bay. If you are fortunate enough to gain access to the huts and see some of the relics of Mawson’s infamous 1911-14 Australasian Antarctic Expedition, it will be an amazing experience that will give you an insight into the harsh conditions that these explorers were subjected to and endured.

Antarctica Cruises, Ships & Tours

10 top antarctica cruises & tours for 2024-2025, classic antarctica air cruise, antarctica - basecamp, antarctic express: fly the drake, antarctic small ship expedition, south shetland islands and antarctic peninsula, antarctica express air cruise, antarctic explorer: discovering the 7th continent, epic antarctica: crossing the circle via falklands & south georgia, 8 antarctica cruise deals for 2024-2025, find the perfect antarctica trip, cruise one way & fly one way, adventure expeditions, luxury cruises, our most remote antarctic expeditions.

• South Georgia

Falkland Islands

Weddell sea, tips for planning your antarctic cruise, how to choose an antarctic cruise.

• Book early! Fewer than 60,000 people step foot on Antarctica each year and many ships fill up many months or even years ahead of time. Plan your trip at least a year ahead of time, or even earlier if you can, for the best prices and selection.
• Choose a smaller ship, preferably with less than 200 passengers. By choosing a smaller cruising vessel for your Antarctica cruise, you are guaranteeing yourself a superior on board  experience with more opportunities for daily excursions to small bays and ports. Ships carrying more than 500 passengers are not allowed to land their passengers ashore in Antarctica.
• Choose your cruise based on activities, destinations, and cruise line experience. Use this guide, or contact one of our Antarctica cruise experts  and we'll help you find the itinerary and ship that is best suited to your you. 
• Be prepared for rough seas. If you are affected by motion sickness, then take tried and tested medications or treatments. Consider taking a flight cruise that can fly you either one, or both ways from Punta Arenas, Chile to King George Island.

Top-Rated Small Antarctic Cruise Ships

Magellan explorer, sylvia earle, ultramarine, greg mortimer, national geographic endurance, ocean albatros, world explorer, ocean adventurer (sea adventurer), ocean victory, ms seaventure, antarctica highlights.

• Zodiac Expeditions: Delve into the heart of Antarctica's icy realm on Zodiac expeditions. Get unbelievably close to massive icebergs and glaciers that defy imagination. Encounter unique wildlife such as seals, penguins, and majestic whales, making every moment a captivating memory.
• Antarctica Camping Trips: For an unparalleled connection with the environment, camp under the starry skies of Antarctica. Some cruises offer camping experiences complete with all the necessary equipment, ensuring your safety while you immerse yourself in the raw beauty of the continent.
• Kayak Among Marine Life: Glide through the pristine waters of Antarctica in a kayak, coming face to face with the remarkable marine life that calls this continent home. Paddle through stunning ice formations and observe seals and penguins in their natural habitat.
• Snowshoeing and Skiing: Embrace the adventure spirit by snowshoeing or skiing on the pristine slopes of Antarctica. Some cruises include these exhilarating activities in their itineraries and provide top-notch equipment for guests seeking an adrenaline rush.
• Glacier Hikes: Embark on glacier hikes through awe-inspiring white landscapes, all while spotting the incredible wildlife that inhabits this unique region. It's an opportunity to stay active and witness wildlife thriving in their natural habitat.
• Scientific Explorations: Visit science research stations and onboard science labs to delve into the cutting-edge research conducted in Antarctica. Learn about the history of exploration in Antarctica and gain insights into the current challenges facing the continent.
• Breathtaking Sceneries: Be prepared to be mesmerized by the inspiring and breathtaking sceneries of Antarctica. Marvel at the incredible species that call this pristine wilderness home every step of the way.
• Relaxation and Luxury: Amidst the adventure, take time to unwind and pamper yourself. Enjoy moments of relaxation as you tour or sail through the blue waters of Antarctica. Many cruises offer onboard services like spas, massages, fine dining, hot tubs, and more, ensuring you have the best of both worlds during your expedition.

Antarctic Wildlife

Top places to visit in antarctica.

• Antarctic Peninsula : This is one of the most visited regions in Antarctica and is known for its stunning landscapes, research stations, and abundant wildlife, including penguins, seals, and whales. Cross the Lemaire Channel back or from notable visitor sites along the Antarctic Peninsula include Paradise Bay , Deception Island , Neko Harbor, Cuverville Island, Half Moon Island, and Petermann Island.
• East Antarctica: The vast and largely unexplored eastern portion of Antarctica contains the coldest and driest areas of the continent.
• West Antarctica: This region is characterized by its massive ice sheets and glaciers, including the West Antarctic Ice Sheet. It is an important area for scientific research on climate change.
• Ross Sea : Located in the southernmost part of the Pacific Ocean, the Ross Sea region is home to the Ross Ice Shelf, the largest ice shelf in Antarctica. It is a critical area for studying the continent's marine ecosystem, Visit Brown Bluff (Tabarin Peninsula) or sail to the remote Peter I Island and Macquarie Island as you approach New Zealand .
• Weddell Sea : Situated off the eastern coast of the Antarctic Peninsula, the Weddell Sea is known for its diverse wildlife and historic significance, including the famous Shackleton expedition.
• South Orkney Islands: These islands are a sub-Antarctic archipelago located in the Southern Ocean, not far from the Antarctic Peninsula. They are home to various bird species and marine life.
• South Shetland Islands : This archipelago is a popular stop for Antarctic cruises, serving as a gateway to the continent. It is known for its research stations and wildlife, including penguins and seals. Notable visitor sites within the South Shetland Islands include Livingston Island, Hannah Point (Livingston Island), Elephant Island , and Aitcho Islands.
• South Sandwich Islands : This group of uninhabited islands located in the South Atlantic Ocean is home to a variety of seabirds and marine mammals, including chinstrap penguins, fur seals, albatrosses, and orcas.
• Sub-Antarctic Islands: These islands are scattered throughout the Southern Ocean and are known for their unique ecosystems, including various bird species and marine life. Sail to the Falkland Islands and South Georgia Island . Explore visitor sites such as Port Stanley (capital), Saunders Island, Carcass Island, West Point Island, and Sea Lion Island.
• Scotia Arc: This chain of islands and undersea ridges connects South America with the Antarctic Peninsula. It is an important migratory route for marine animals.
• Balleny Islands: These remote sub-Antarctic islands lie in the Southern Ocean and are known for their isolation and unique geology.

Antarctica Travel Guide

Ushuaia airport & transportation, antarctica fly + cruise, best time of year to travel to antarctica, antarctica weather.

• November: This is when tourism to Antarctica begins to kick off. Days start to lengthen, and sea ice retreats, marking the Antarctic "spring" in full force. While temperatures are still chilly, it's a great time for those seeking pristine landscapes and wildlife, including penguin mating rituals and seals having pups. Skiers and snowshoers will find ideal conditions in November and early December
• December: Among the most popular months for visiting, December offers optimal weather, long days, and access to stunning scenery and wildlife. It includes the austral summer solstice, providing extended daylight and relatively warmer temperatures. Penguin hatchlings and chicks are a highlight, and it's a great time for various activities, including kayaking and camping.
• January: Another prime month for tourism, January features ideal weather conditions, long daylight hours, and extensive access to the mainland and coastline. Temperatures are at their warmest, and there's an abundance of wildlife to observe, including penguins and increasing numbers of whales.
• February: Although tourist numbers start to decline from the December/January peak, February continues to offer fine weather. Daylight remains ample, and sea ice is at its yearly minimum, allowing for deeper exploration into the Antarctic wilderness. Whale-watching is particularly rewarding during this time. Scuba divers may prefer mid-December through mid-February
• March: The tail-end of the austral summer provides less-crowded sightseeing opportunities, minimal sea ice, and the chance to experience the "Antarctic fall." While temperatures cool off, March offers lower cruise prices, clearer waters for diving, and unique wildlife experiences, such as leopard seals hunting penguin chicks.
• Don't introduce any non-native species that could become invasive species.
• Always listen to your guides and the ship's crew while on day-trips.
• Make sure to observe animals from a safe distance and never try to touch them (at least 15 feet is a good recommendation).
• Don't feed any animals.
• Stay on designated walking paths.
• Allow animals enough space to make their own navigation decisions. 
• Do not surround any animal or go between baby animals and their mothers.

What's it like on an Antarctic Cruise?

A Typical Day on an Antarctica Cruise

Expeditions to the south pole, south pole expeditions.

• The cruising season in the Arctic is from May to September, while in Antarctica it runs from November through March.
• While temperatures in Antarctica can be more extreme than in the Arctic, the cruising season tends to stay between 20-30 degree Fahrenheit, with plenty of sunny days (sometimes with 24 hours of sunlight each day). 
• A trip through the Arctic might bring you through any of the following countries: Canada, the US, Greenland, Iceland, Norway, Russia, Sweden and Finland. Longer comprehensive cruises might do the whole Northwest Passage or cruise almost all of the Arctic Circle. Cruises board either in Scandinavia, Russia, or Canada.
• Antarctica trips either start in Ushuaia, Argentina for cruises or Punta Arenas for the fly cruises over the Drake Passage . 
• Polar bears or Penguins - While penguins are so prolific in Antarctica and the Southern Ocean that the idea of not seeing hundreds on your cruise seems absurd, the polar bears of the Arctic can be much harder to spot (though some feel that they are more majestic and rewarding when you do spot them). NOTE: Polar bears live in the Arctic and penguins live in the southern hemisphere, so there is nowhere (other than perhaps a zoo) where you will see them both living in their natural habitat on the same trip. 
• Wildlife in Antarctica features more whales and many different types of seals. 
• Active travelers might prefer Antarctica for the chances to do activities like camping, kayaking, mountaineering, cross-country skiing, paddleboarding or scuba diving, which aren't included on Arctic tours for safety reasons.
• Ice vs. Land: Antarctica is aptly named the White Continent because its landmass is almost entirely permanently frozen ice and glaciers with towering rocky mountains, while the Arctic Circle goes through a summer season of lush vegetation when its icy coat melts away.

Antarctica Cruise Lines

Penguins of antarctica.

• Adelie Penguins - are common along the entire coast of the Antarctic continent and is the most widely-spread penguin species.
• Emperor Penguins - the tallest, heaviest and perhaps most famous of the penguin species.
• King Penguins - the second largest penguin, and similar in appearance to the Emperors, King Penguins live in the sub-antarctic islands and northern regions of Antarctica.
• Rockhopper Penguins  - get their name because they are found jumping from jagged rock to rock instead of waddling like most penguins. 
• Chinstrap Penguins - are easily distinguishable by their black chinstrap, which makes it look like they're wearing a bicycle helmet!
• Gentoo Penguins  - are related to the Adelie and Chinstraps, and perhaps the speediest of the penguins in the water. 
• Macaroni Penguins - with their distinctive spikey orange crests, are perhaps the world's most abundant penguin species, though they only visit Antarctica part of the year.

Antarctica Travel FAQ's

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Journey to Antarctica: The White Continent

About this tour.

Discover the magic and wonder of Santiago, Ushuaia and the “White Continent” – Antarctica. Enjoy Santiago, before flying over Patagonia to Ushuaia, the southernmost city in the world. Begin your Antarctic expedition aboard the fully equipped National Geographic Resolution by crossing the Drake Passage. Explore vistas of blue-white glaciers and busy penguin rookeries. See breaching whales crashing and scenes of pure ice walls as you observe from the deck of the ship. Explore on shore with our passionate ship's naturalists and learn about the local populations of penguins, seals, and humpback whales. Join a National Geographic photographer for photo tips during your close encounters with Gentoo penguins. Feel the glacial ice crunch as your expedition ship makes its way through a pack of ice with its hull strengthened to “ice class.”

Your Tour Includes

• 2 Handpicked Accommodations

Included Highlights

• The Drake Passage
• Next-Generation Expedition Ship

Your Tour at a Glance

11 Breakfasts

4 - Very Active

Travel Style

On tour air.

Activity Level

• Level This Tour

For specific details about this tour's activity level and other info to know before you book your trip, click here.

Extension Style

On tour air included.

• The cost of all internal flights on tour or within an extension are included into the total tour cost on our website and brochures.
• Purchasing internal flights through Collette is now required on tours where applicable.
• This price continues to exclude all round-trip air getting to and from the tour, as well as any additional air segments required to arrive at or depart from an extension.
• The cost displayed is based on availability at the time of booking.

Travel Styles

Highlights and inclusions.

Must-See Inclusions:

Cruise through the waters of Antarctica on a fully stabilized polar expedition ship.

Cross the Drake Passage, a milestone for any adventurer!

Enjoy a tour of Santiago, the capital city of Chile.

Cultural Experiences:

Discover multitudes of Antarctic wildlife including seals, whales, albatross and chinstrap, gentoo and Adelie penguins.

Enjoy nearly 24 hours of sunlight as you absorb your surroundings ashore and from the expedition ship’s many observatory decks.

Culinary Inclusions:

Savor fresh and varied meals aboard the expedition ship while admiring the scenery around you.

• Zodiac Forays
• Penguin Colony Close-Ups
• Kayak Excursions
• Photography Guidance
• On Board Educational Sessions

Book with Confidence

* With Insurance Purchased

• *No Hassle Refunds
• Traveling Well Safety
• No booking fee, *no change fees
• Top Rated Travel Protection

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Getting Prepared

Know before you go, travel tips, enhance your tour, upgrade your room.

Cruise Upgrade

Unique Experience

Cultural Experiences

Room Upgrade

Cruise-Lindblad-National Geographic Resolution New York

Your journey to the White Continent is made even sweeter with a cabin enhancement aboard the National Geographic Explorer. Upgrade to a generously-appointed Main Deck cabin, complete with windows that provide views of an unspoiled Antarctic seascape that no porthole ever could. Or, upgrade to an even larger cabin, where you’ll enjoy even more room to take in the Antarctic vistas from the ship’s Main Deck. You can also enhance your accommodations even further by upgrading to a cabin on the Upper and Veranda decks of the vessel, where you can indulge in a bird’s eye view of the incredible Antarctic. Or, choose a cabin on the Upper Deck that features a balcony for enjoying the sensory experience of your Antarctic journey.

*Total for all passengers

Accommodations

Hyatt Centric Las Condes Santiago

National geographic resolution.

Nights 2-11

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Tsunami alert after volcano in Indonesia erupts, thousands told to leave

Indonesian authorities issued a tsunami alert on Wednesday after eruptions at Ruang mountain sent ash thousands of feet high.

Officials ordered more than 11,000 people to leave the area.

The volcano on the northern side of Sulawesi island had at least five large eruptions in the past 24 hours, Indonesia's Center for Volcanology and Geological Disaster Mitigation said.

Authorities raised their volcano alert to its highest level.

There were no reports of deaths or injuries.

The National Disaster Management Agency's spokesperson Abdul Muhari told ABC that residents have been moving to the east part of Tagulandang Island.

"They have been moving to the north and east area," he said.

"But we aren't able to reveal the numbers yet … because the rock ejection is still happening and we are prioritising staff's safety."

Mr Muhari said until Thursday morning local time, the volcanic ash has "subsided but the volcanic ash is quite spread out".

"We couldn't land in the local airport," he said.

"Our team would have to wait until the airport is open."

At least 800 residents were evacuated from two Ruang Island villages to nearby Tagulandang Island, according to an earlier report by state agency.

Indonesia, an archipelago of 270 million people, has 120 active volcanoes.

It is prone to volcanic activity because it sits along the 'Ring of Fire', a horseshoe-shaped series of seismic fault lines around the Pacific Ocean.

The volcanology agency said on Tuesday that volcanic activity had increased at Ruang after two earthquakes in recent weeks.

Authorities urged tourists and others to stay at least 6 kilometres from the 725-metre Ruang volcano.

Officials worry that part of the volcano could collapse into the sea and cause a tsunami similar to a 1871 eruption there.

In a press conference on Thursday, head of Indonesia's volcanology agency Hendra Gunawan said his team will evacuate more people to avoid casualties.

"Some people have been hit by the stones and got their heads scarred although not significant," he said.

"This however shows that the eruption is getting more intense."

Tagulandang island to the volcano's north-east is again at risk, and its residents are among those being told to evacuate.

Indonesia's National Disaster Mitigation Agency said residents will be relocated to Manado, the nearest city, on Sulawesi island, a journey of 6 hours by boat.

In 2018, the eruption of Indonesia's Anak Krakatau volcano caused a tsunami along the coasts of Sumatra and Java after parts of the mountain fell into the ocean, killing 430 people.

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• Disasters, Accidents and Emergency Incidents
• Volcanic Eruptions

Plan your next holiday to Thailand, Australia, NZ and Antarctica with these hot deals

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Conquer one of New Zealand’s iconic hikes

Journey through the stunning landscapes of the Tongariro Alpine Crossing before winter sets in with this discounted package. Hailed as one of New Zealand’s most iconic and spectacular hikes , the Tongariro Alpine Crossing, with its breathtaking volcanic landscapes , is a must-do for any outdoor enthusiast . Starting at $235 per person, this offer includes two nights’ accommodation at The Park Hotel Ruapehu in a King Double or Twin room for two people, full breakfasts, packed lunch for the crossing day, return transfers, and access to the hotel’s facilities, including free Wi-Fi and soothing outdoor hot tubs .

This offer is valid until April 30 for just $235 per person, $470 for two people or $705 for three people.

Call 0800 800 491 or email [email protected] . For more info, visit visitruapehu.com/deals/ruapehu-deals/tongariro-alpine-crossing-package-at-the-park-hotel

Hangout with humpback whales on a 12-day trip to Antarctica

All aboard – the journey of a lifetime awaits. Embark on an unforgettable voyage to witness the incredible abundance of humpback whales on Intrepid Travel’s 12-Day Best of Antarctica : Whale Discovery expedition . Set sail towards the Antarctic Peninsula aboard the Ocean Endeavour, where you’ll witness these magnificent marine mammals migrate south to feed on krill. Admire the breathtaking scenery and wildlife surrounding you, including Gentoo and chinstrap penguins, fur seals , albatross , and, of course, the majestic views of the icebergs and glaciated mountains .

Level up this once-in-a-lifetime adventure by personalizing your trip with optional activities such as kayaking among icebergs, day paddling with expert guides, or taking photography lessons on the White Continent from a pro.

Intrepid Travel is excited to relaunch the Ocean Endeavour Flight + Expedition Package for the first three voyages of the 2024/25 season, as well as up to 20 per cent off their Antarctica Early Bird Offer. Book now until April 30, to secure a spot on a trip like no other.

Call 0800 600 610 or visit intrepidtravel.com/nz/antarctica/best-antarctica-whale-discovery-ocean-endeavour-149736 for more info

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