antarctica trip from new zealand

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

• New Zealand To Antarctica

Antarctica Cruises, Tours & Trips From New Zealand

Embark on an epic expedition from New Zealand to Antarctica with these Antarctic cruises, tours & trips from New Zealand’s Invercargill, Dunedin & Christchurch ports.

Scott & Shackleton's Antarctic - Ross Sea Expedition

You may also be interested in.

Can You Go To Antarctica? Yes! Here’s How To Visit

Antarctica cruise routes: which itinerary is best for you.

A Day In Antarctica: What to Expect On An Antarctic Cruise

Antarctica’s bay of whales & its place in history.

Why Visit Antarctica? Top 10 Reasons To Go

Antarctica Activities: Top 15 Things To Do In Antarctica

• 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

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 travelling 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, 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 minimise our impact, support vital research and promote conservation in the Antarctic.  

Antarctica tour reviews

Filter by rating

Journey to the Antarctic Circle (Ocean Endeavour)

Articles of Antarctica

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 recognised 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 10°C (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 moisturiser 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 mobile phone work in Antarctica? 

Your mobile 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 AUD$7,000.

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 traveller, 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.

• Destination
• All Antarctic Cruises
• Scott & Shackleton's Antarctica Ross Sea

Scott & Shackleton's Antarctica Ross Sea

• Antarctica from NZ & AU
• Sub Antarctic Islands & Cruises
• Small Ship Cruising
• Wildlife and Nature

Tour Description

Join us on this 22 day voyage - Scott & Shackleton's Antarctica Ross Sea from New Zealand to Antarctica.

Sailing the Ross Sea means discovering one of the most extreme and pristine regions of Antarctica, where the cold is more intense,  the ice more impressive and the scenery more spectacular. 

In the heart of this polar Garden of Eden, where the ice shelf turns into icebergs, you will encounter prodigious fauna, as well as surrealist landscapes, with infinite shades of blue and stunning reliefs.  Antarctic petrels, Minke whales, Orcas and 5 species of seals are at home here, as are very large colonies of Adelie penguins.  Follow in the footsteps of the heroic age of Antarctic exploration and discover the historic huts of Scott, Shackleton & Borchgrevink. Enjoy amazing outings and shore visits in zodiac inflatables with a team of experienced naturalist guides.

During your voyage you will also discover the flora and fauna of the Sub Antarctic Islands. Be in awe of the remarkable haven for wildlife that is the Snares, Campbell Island with a stunning flora display and Macquarie Island, long celebrated as one of the wonder spots of the world, a place of great beauty and outstanding natural diversity.

This is your chance to v isit the most pristine piece of ocean left on earth!

Viva's Best Bits...

"This is an outstanding opportunity to see 9 of the world's penguin species, fur, Southern Elephant, Weddell and crabeater seals, New Zealand Sea Lions, albatross and other sea birds, plus go to an area of the world seldom visited" Tara, Team Viva

Follow in the footsteps of the heroic age of Antarctic exploration and discover the historic huts of Scott, Shackleton & Borchgrevink. Gain an insight into the history and the diversity of flora and fauna from your expert expedition team.

Chance to discover Cape Adare, home to the largest Adelie penguin rookery in the world, plus UNESCO World Heritage Sites: Campbell Island, Macquarie Island, Snares Islands (New Zealand's Subantarctic Islands)

Tour Itinerary

Dunedin is New Zealand's oldest city and is often referred to as the Edinburgh of New Zealand. This city of the south, wears its Scottish heritage with pride. The city contains some of the best preserved Victorian and Edwardian architecture in the Southern Hemisphere. The Silverpeaks hinterland to the North West provides a picturesque backdrop and The Otago Peninsula, which lies within the city boundaries, has internationally renowned wildlife reserves, including the only mainland breeding colony of Northern Royal Albatross. Embarkation in the afternoon

During your day at sea, make the most of the many services and activities on board. Treat yourself to a moment of relaxation in the spa or stay in shape in the fitness centre. Depending on the season, let yourself be tempted by the swimming pool or a spot of sunbathing. This day without a port of call will also be an opportunity to enjoy the conferences or shows proposed on board, to do some shopping in the boutique or to meet the photographers in their dedicated space. As for lovers of the open sea, they will be able to visit the ship’s upper deck to admire the spectacle of the waves and perhaps be lucky enough to observe marine species. A truly enchanted interlude, combining comfort, rest and entertainment.

Campbell Island is the most southerly of the five New Zealand subantarctic groups. Described by the English botanist Joseph Hooker as having a "flora display second to none outside the tropics." It is known for its megaherbs, herbaceous, perennial wildflowers characterised by their great size, with huge leaves and very colourful flowers, which have developed as an adaptation to the harsh weather conditions on the islands. Campbell Island is also home to six species of albatross, and several critically endangered endemic birds including the Campbell Island teal and snipe. You will have the opportunity to undertake a guided walk on the Col Lyell Saddle boardwalk as well as undertake a zodiac tour around the coastline of Perseverance Harbour.

The Ross Sea, the southernmost sea in the world, owes its name to Sir James Clark Ross, both a naturalist and a Royal Navy officer, who first explored the area in 1841 with HMS Erebus and HMS Terror. It is bounded on the east by Roosevelt Island and the Edward VII Peninsula in Mary Byrd Land, on the west by Ross Island and the coastal mountains of Victoria Land, and on the south by the Ross Ice Shelf, the largest ice shelf in Antarctica located some 320 km from the geographic South Pole. The history and treasures of the world's ultimate marine sanctuary will be revealed during this extraordinary expedition. You will be able, weather and ice conditions permitting, to discover several emblematic sites in the region. Among the possible stopovers, Cape Adare, at the northern end of the Borchgrevink coast, home to the world’s largest colony of Adélie penguins. We will attempt to reach Terra Nova Bay where the Italian and South Korean scientific stations are located to the north and the Drygalski Ice Tongue to the south. Dating back at least 4000 years, it extends 70 km offshore from the David Glacier and is 24 km at its widest point. On the Inexpressible Island, discover the exceptional survival conditions of a group of six men of the Terra Nova expedition, led by Robert Falcon Scott (1910-1913), forced to winter in a cave dug in the ice, today classified as an Antarctica historical monument. On Ross Island, follow in the footsteps of the polar explorers Sir James Clark Ross and discover Sir Ernest Shackleton's hut, classified as an Antarctica historical monument. Built at Cape Royds during the British expedition Nimrod (1907-1909), it proudly stands at the bottom of Mount Erebus. Sixty years earlier, while Captain James Ross was trying to reach the South Magnetic Pole, he discovered Franklin Island, located 130 km east of Cape Hickey in Victoria Land. He named it after Sir John Franklin, Arctic explorer and governor of the territory of present-day Tasmania. You will be offered there, a privileged position to observe Adélie penguins in their daily ballet as well as Weddell seals, resting on the shore.

The Balleny Islands are an extremely remote series of islands extending for about 160 kilometres in a northwest-southeast direction straddling the Antarctic Circle some 270 kilometres north of the Antarctic mainland. The volcanic islands are heavily glaciated and have received few human visitors since their discovery in 1839. Their isolated location within the rich waters of the Southern Ocean has resulted in a species diversity rivalling the entire Ross Sea region. Humpback, fin and minke whales are regular visitors to the rich feeding grounds along with Crabeater, Weddell, elephant and leopard seals. Several of the islands are home to significant colonies of Adélie and Chinstrap penguins. If time and weather permit, guests will have the opportunity to explore the spectacular coastal environments and view the prolific wildlife from our fleet of Zodiac® .

Long celebrated as one of the wonder spots of the world, Macquarie Island is an island of great beauty and outstanding natural diversity, a breeding place for more than 3.5 million seabirds, most of which are penguins. There are four species breeding on Macquarie Island: Royals, Kings, Gentoos and Rock Hoppers. There are also three types of fur seals and one seventh of the world's population of elephant seals breeding on the Island. In 1948 The Australian National Antarctic Research Expeditions (ANARE) established its expedition headquarters on Macquarie Island. If time and weather permit, guests will have the opportunity to land ashore and view the prolific wildlife that resides here.

Amongst the Subantarctic Islands of New Zealand, the Snares have the distinction of being the only forested group without introduced mammals, not even mice. Consequently, it is a remarkable haven for wildlife. The island boasts more nesting seabirds than the entire realm of the British Isles. Over 2 million Sooty Shearwaters breed here in the summer months. Four species of Albatross are listed as breeding on the Snares along with 35,000 endemic Snares crested penguins. There are also approximately 1,000 New Zealand fur seals and 500 New Zealand sea lions. Landing on the Snares is prohibited. If time and weather permit, you will have the opportunity to explore the coastal environments and view the prolific wildlife from our fleet of Zodiac®.

Dunedin is New Zealand's oldest city and is often referred to as the Edinburgh of New Zealand. This city of the south, wears its Scottish heritage with pride. The city contains some of the best preserved Victorian and Edwardian architecture in the Southern Hemisphere. The Silverpeaks hinterland to the North West provides a picturesque backdrop and The Otago Peninsula, which lies within the city boundaries, has internationally renowned wildlife reserves, including the only mainland breeding colony of Northern Royal Albatross. Disembarkation in early morning

What’s Included

Accommodation.

• Included Copy 20 Stateroom onboard Le Soleal
• Included Copy 31 Cabin upgrades available
• Included Copy 20 All meals while on board the cruise
• Included Copy 20 Open bar & room service 24 hours (conditions apply)

Fees & Services

• Included Copy 20 Outings and shore visits in Zodiacs with a team of experienced naturalist guides
• Included Copy 20 Lectures and information sessions hosted by our naturalist-guides
• Included Copy 20 Parka to keep & boots to loan while on the cruise
• Included Copy 7 International flights, Travel Insurance, Gratuities / Tips are not included

Transportation

264 (200 in Antarctica) Passengers

• Included Explorations via Zodiacs to get close to glaciers, icebergs and wildlife
• Included Voyage through remote and pristine Ross Sea
• Included Fur seals, Southern Elephant Seals, Weddell Seas, Crabeater seals and NZ fur seals!
• Included Possibility of viewing the historic huts of Scott, Shackleton & Borchgrevink
• Included Penguins!! African Adélie, Royal, Gentoo, Chinstrap, Southern rockhopper & Macaroni
• Included Gain an insight into the History &diversity of flora and fauna from your expert expedition team
• Included UNESCO World Heritage Sites: Campbell Island, Macquarie Island, Snares Islands

$ 32,236 NZD

Per person, sharing

Based On Lowest Cabin

Speak to your All Antarctic Cruises travel expert now

Related 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.

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.

Emblematic Antarctica

• Antarctic Peninsula
• Luxury Antarctica

Embark on an unforgettable 12 day voyage to Antarctica, encounter penguins, whales, seals, ice burgs and grandiose landscapes on this luxury cruise.

New Zealand's Sub Antarctic & Macquarie Island

• Antarctica from NZ & AU
• Sub Antarctic Islands & Cruises

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

Early Emperors: Whichaway Camp

A unique luxury Antarctica eco camp experience with access to a magnificent Emperor penguin colony & the chance to see thousands of emperor chicks!

Subscribe to our newsletter

In the Wake of Scott & Shackleton: Ross Sea Antarctica

• Get inspired by the possibilities.
• Build your ideal trip.
• Visit the Ross Sea region, one of the world's most remote &intriguing sites
• Experience nature on a scale so grand there are no words to describe it
• View relics of 'the heroic' or 'golden age' of exploration, including huts
• Observe and photograph penguins, seabirds, seals and whales
• Discover Antarctica via shore landings on the dynamic Subantarctic Islands
• Whale Watching
• Small Ship Cruises
• Wildlife Viewing
• New Zealand
• South Pacific
• Auckland Islands
• Campbell Island
• Invercargill
• Macquarie Island
• Port of Bluff
• Ross Island

Full Itinerary

Day 1: queenstown, new zealand, day 2: port of bluff | embark.

• 1 Breakfast, 1 Lunch, 1 Dinner

Day 3: The Snares | North East Island

Day 4: auckland islands | enderby island, day 5: at sea, day 6-7: macquarie island.

• 2 Breakfasts, 2 Lunches, 2 Dinners

Day 8-10: At Sea

• 3 Breakfasts, 3 Lunches, 3 Dinners

Day 11-22: Antarctica's Ross Sea Region

• 12 Breakfasts, 12 Lunches, 12 Dinners

Day 23-25: At Sea

Day 26: campbell island | perseverance harbour, day 27: at sea, day 28: port of bluff | disembark.

• 1 Breakfast

Heritage Adventurer

Dates & prices, my preferred start date.

Initial deposit is 25%, and most travelers will call our office and pay the deposit with a credit card.

Final payment is due 130 days prior to departure by Bank transfer, check or credit card. All final payments by credit card may be subject to a surcharge and maximum of $20,000 charge

See our general terms and conditions:

• Adventure Life Terms & Conditions

We are an agent for one or more providers on this trip with specific cancellation policies and terms:

• Heritage Expeditions: Terms & Conditions - Heritage Expeditions

For full cancellation policy details, please contact us for a quote.

• 27 Breakfasts, 26 Lunches, 27 Dinners
• 27 Nights Accommodations
• Accommodations as listed
• Ground transportation as listed
• Activities as listed
• Meals as listed
• Access to a 24-7 Emergency line while traveling
• House beer, wine and soft drinks with lunch and dinner
• One night hotel accommodation in a twin share room (incl. dinner/breakfast)
• All expedition shore excursions
• Programme of lectures by noted naturalists
• Pre- & Post- Cruise Transfers
• Landing fees
• Travel Insurance
• Personal Expenses
• Flight costs (please request a quote)
• Additional excursions during free time
• Fuel and transportation surcharges (when applicable)
• Required Visas if applicable
• Laundry 
• Mandatory medical evacuation insurance

We Love to Talk Travel

South pacific travel guide.

• All South Pacific Trips
• All South Pacific Videos
• All South Pacific Travel Stories
• Papua New Guinea Overview
• Fiji Overview
• Marquesas Islands Overview
• Tahiti Overview
• The Solomon Islands Overview
• When to Visit the South Pacific
• Easter Island

Favorite South Pacific All Trips

• Cook Islands & Society Islands
• Hawaiian Seascapes
• Marquesas, Tuamotus & Society Islands

Why Travel With Adventure Life

Recognized by.

• facebook-official
• youtube-play
• pinterest-circled

The Best Ways to Get to Antarctica & the Subantarctic Islands from New Zealand

Nz pocket guide is 10 years old. thank you for trusting us with your trip for over a decade, cruises to antarctica and the subantarctic islands.

You won’t find New Zealand’s southernmost islands in any brochures or guidebooks. Get well and truly off the beaten track to the remote southern oceans! New Zealand might be one of the main gateways to Antarctica for scientific expeditions, but there are very few ways to you can explore New Zealand’s most protected islands and even Antarctica itself for leisure. However, that doesn’t mean that it’s impossible. Once or twice a year each New Zealand summer, a couple of cruises depart taking a limited number of passengers to the Subantarctic Islands and Antarctica to observe a vast array of wildlife and see extreme landscapes. We list some of the top (but limited) cruises available to Antarctica and the Subantarctic Islands from New Zealand!

For more places to visit from New Zealand, check out the 10 Countries Easy to Visit from New Zealand .

5 Reasons to Make New Zealand Your Departure Point to the Antarctic & Subantarctic Islands

• New Zealand is super easy to access through the international airports available in Auckland, Wellington, Christchurch, Queenstown and Dunedin
• Get a taste for the Subantarctic before you leave! New Zealand is also the habitat for penguins, albatross and sea lions that also inhabit the Subantarctic Islands
• There are multiple departure cities, such as Invercargill, Dunedin and Christchurch (the latter if you’re lucky enough to be taking a flight). Check out the must-do experiences for Invercargill , Dunedin and Christchurch !
• Get easy access to New Zealand’s closest Subantarctic island, Stewart Island! All you need to do is catch a ferry from Bluff with Real Journeys (more info on Viator and Tripadvisor ) then start doing the 10 Incredible Things to Do on Stewart Island .
• Visit areas that are already on the tours, such as Milford Sound and Doubtful Sound, as featured on the Subantarctic expedition with Zegrahm Expeditions (see below).

Ross Sea Antarctic Cruising: In the Wake of Scott & Shackleton Cruise

Exodus Travels and Heritage Expeditions offers the ultimate adventure out at sea exploring the subantarctic islands on the way to Antarctica on a month-long excursion. Wildlife, dramatic landscapes and historic sites are the themes of the Ross Sea Antarctic Cruising tour, which includes visiting historic Antarctic huts and modern scientific bases, visiting penguin rookeries and peering at the grand Mt Erebus and Mt Discovery. A stop at The Snares, Auckland, Macquarie and Campbell islands break up the long journey down to the Ross Sea and Antarctica.

Accommodation is on the Spirit of Enderby, an ice-strengthened expedition vessel carrying 50 passengers in twin-share cabins. On-board is also a bar, dining room, library, lounge area, sauna and a lecture room. The tour departs and ends in Invercargill, with the cruise departure from the Port of Bluff.

Tour Highlights

Duration : 30 Days Maximum Group Size : 48 Destinations : Invercargill , Bluff , The Snares Islands, Auckland Islands, Macquarie Island, Ross Sea, Franklin Island, Possession Islands, Ross Ice Shelf, Ross Island, Campbell Island. Age of Passengers : 18+ years old

Sub-Antarctic Islands of New Zealand Cruise

A small-ship cruise operating in January annually, the Sub-Antarctic Islands of New Zealand cruise with Zegrahm Expeditions gives passengers a unique look at New Zealand’s far-flung islands. The 18-day excursion takes around 100 guests on Caledonian Sky expedition vessel, kitted out with luxurious cabins and public spaces including a dining room, lounge with a piano, a bar, viewing deck, sun deck, a library and a small gym.

Starting from Dunedin, the Zegrahm Expeditions cruise sails to the Auckland Islands, Macquarie Island, Cambell Island and The Snares Islands to observe multiple albatross and penguin species. The cruise then loops back to New Zealand, stopping by Stewart Island then through Milford, Dusky, Breaksea and Doubtful Sounds to embrace the scenery of the glacier-carved fiords. The tour then comes to a close in Queenstown.

Duration : 18 Days Maximum Group Size : 100 Destinations : Dunedin , Auckland Islands, Macquarie Island, Campbell Island, The Snares Islands, Stewart Island , Ulva Island, Dusky Sound, Breaksea Sound, Doubtful Sound, Milford Sound and Queenstown . Age of Passengers : 40-80-year-olds

Forgotten Islands of the South Pacific

Departing twice a year, in January and December, Heritage Expedition’s Forgotten Islands of the South Pacific cruise takes you to some of the most remarkable wildlife reserves in the South Pacific, stopping by a selection of Subantarctic Islands. The eight-day cruise departs from the Port of Bluff near Invercargill, stopping by The Snares, Auckland and Campbell islands for some serious bird-watching. Think penguins, fernbirds, tomtits, albatross, teals and snipes!

Like the tour mentioned above, the Forgotten Islands of the South Pacific uses the Spirit of Enderby, which carries up to 50 passengers across 28 twin-share cabins. Guests have access to a bar, dining room, library, sauna, lounge and lecture room.

Duration : 8 Days Maximum Group Size : 48 Destinations : Invercargill , Bluff , The Snares Islands, Auckland Islands and Campbell Island. Age of Passengers : 18+ years old

More About Islands Near New Zealand

• 6 Tropical Islands Near New Zealand
• Chatham Islands (New Zealand) – Guide for Backpackers
• 10 Things You Did Not Know About New Zealand Wildlife

The information in this guide has been compiled from our extensive research, travel and experiences across New Zealand and the South Pacific, accumulated over more than a decade of numerous visits to each destination. Additional sources for this guide include the following:

• Tourism New Zealand (General travel advice - Updated [2024])
• Department of Conservation (Tracks, hikes, campsites and more - Updated [2024])
• AdventureSmart (Know before you go - Update [2024])
• Tiaki Promise (Care for people place and culture - Updated [2024])
• NZ Māori Tourism (Official Māori Tourism platform - Updated [2024])
• Waka Kotahi NZ Transport Agency (Road and transport tips - Updated [2024])
• DriveSafe (Road safety - Updated [2024])
• Council websites and freedom camping maps (Local travel advice region by region - Updated [2024])
• Safe Travel (NZ travel advisories - Updated [2024])
• Tourism Export Council New Zealand (Tourism trade association - Updated [2024])
• TIA (Independent tourism association - Updated [2024])
• Ōtautahi Christchurch (Regional tourism website)
• Christchurch City Council (Local council website)
• Environment Canterbury (Local council website)

Our editorial standards : At NZ Pocket Guide, we uphold strict editorial standards to ensure accurate and quality content.

About The Author

This article has been reviewed and published by Laura, the editor-in-chief and co-founder of NZ Pocket Guide. Laura is a first-class honours journalism graduate and a travel journalist with expertise in New Zealand and South Pacific tourism for over 10 years. She also runs travel guides for five of the top destinations in the South Pacific and is the co-host of over 250 episodes of the NZ Travel Show on YouTube.

Was this article useful?

Related posts, the complete travel guide to christchurch ⛪ [2024], 20 romantic things to do in christchurch for couples 💑 [2024], the luxury travel guide to christchurch, the travel guide to christchurch on a budget, 10 best luxury experiences in christchurch, 35 things to do in christchurch with kids 👪 [2024], recommended for you, the top new zealand events & festivals 🙌 [2024], 15 best backpacker hostels in tongariro national park 🎒 [2024], 10 best hostels in national park village & whakapapa 🎒 [2024], destinations, travel tips, connect with us, accommodation.

Welcome/Kia Ora By using this website you agree to our Privacy Policy and terms of use within it which includes sponsored posts and affiliate links.

Connect with us

Welcome/Kia Ora! By using this website you agree to our Privacy Policy and the terms of use within it.

© 2024 NZ Pocket Guide. Contact – Disclaimer – About Us – Our Standards

Protect Your Trip »

The 7 top antarctica cruises for 2024 + tips from an expert.

Plan your next epic adventure to the White Continent.

The Top Antarctica Cruises

Yuri Matisse Choufour | Courtesy of Hurtigruten Expeditions

Experience otherworldly beauty on an Antarctica cruise.

An expedition to Antarctica is a once-in-a-lifetime adventure for intrepid travelers who want to explore this remote destination at the bottom of the world. The landscapes are surreal, with eerily blue icebergs, towering ice-capped mountains, dramatic weather conditions that change within seconds and species of wildlife that exist nowhere else on Earth – it's hard to imagine until you've made the long journey yourself.

The fifth-largest continent is home to the largest ice sheet on the planet, the Antarctic Ice Sheet, as well as the Transantarctic Mountains, with peaks soaring more than 14,700 feet into the sky. West Antarctica has volcanoes that are part of a tectonically active area around the Pacific Ocean known as the "Ring of Fire." This incredibly diverse and magical part of the world also has the coldest temperature ever recorded at -135.8 degrees Fahrenheit in 2010.

U.S. News has compiled a selection of seven different Antarctic experiences to help you plan your bucket list adventure to the White Continent.

Book an Antarctica cruise on GoToSea , a service of U.S. News.

Atlas Ocean Voyages: 11-night Ushuaia Roundtrip

Courtesy of Atlas Ocean Voyages

This 11-night expedition with Atlas is available on several dates in 2024. One highlight of the voyage is crossing the Antarctic Circle, along with four days exploring Antarctica and two days spent in the South Shetland Islands. You'll also have two days en route to Antarctica and two days on the return trip on the famed Drake Passage – also known as the "Drake Lake" (on smooth days) or the "Drake Shake" (when the seas are rough).

During your days at sea, take in all the onboard lectures and films about Antarctica, and head outside on the decks to see petrels and albatrosses soaring overhead. This is the perfect opportunity to practice your photography skills before reaching the Antarctic Peninsula, where you want to take nothing but pictures and leave nothing but footprints.

Atlas' Jan. 14 expedition is on the line's newest ship, World Voyager. The purpose-built yacht-style vessel features a hydro-jet propulsion system that's quieter and less disruptive to the fragile ecosystem. This feature also provides the opportunity for guests to see more wildlife during up-close encounters. Pricing is all-inclusive on board the ship with free open bars; all meals, wines, spirits and craft beers; a stocked in-room minibar; all landings, Zodiac excursions and lectures; the use of kayaks, walking sticks, knee boots and binoculars; and a souvenir Atlas jacket to take home. Fares also include a one-night pre-cruise stay and private charter jet service round-trip from Buenos Aires to Ushuaia, Argentina.

Aurora Expeditions: Antarctic Peninsula in Depth

Tyson Mayr | Courtesy of Aurora Expeditions

Aurora offers a 14-night Antarctic intensive voyage sailing round-trip from Ushuaia on Nov. 6, 2024, aboard the 132-passenger purpose-built expedition ship Greg Mortimer. This vessel was the first passenger ship to utilize the state-of-the-art Ulstein X-BOW, which provides a smoother, quicker and more efficient transit across the ocean. The ship also incorporates many environmentally conscious features, including low energy consumption and virtual anchoring, which protects the sea floor and minimizes damage caused by traditional anchors.

Guests will find expansive observation decks and hydraulic viewing platforms for optimal wildlife viewing on board. Other highlights of the expedition are nine full days to explore the Antarctic Peninsula in nearly 24 hours of daylight at the peak of summer. During this time, you can expect to see whales arriving to feed on the plentiful krill, fur seal pups and many entertaining penguins.

Prices are mostly all-inclusive, with a one-night hotel stay before boarding the ship; all meals, snacks and complimentary nonalcoholic beverages; beer and house wine at lunch and dinner; the use of Muck Boots for the expedition; all shore excursions and Zodiac cruises; educational lectures; and more. Adventurous explorers can add on activities (at an additional cost) such as sea kayaking, snowshoeing, camping, and skiing or snowboarding. The line also offers longer 20- to 24-day expeditions that include South Georgia Island.

Read: Sustainable Cruises: The Top Lines Making Progress

Hurtigruten Expeditions: Antarctica, Patagonia and Chilean Fjords Expedition

Dan Avila | Courtesy of Hurtigruten Expeditions

For an extended adventure that includes crossing the Drake Passage twice, spending up to five days in Antarctica and then landing on Cape Horn in Chile (weather permitting), consider the 25-night grand expedition cruise aboard the Hutrigruten Expeditions' MS Roald Amundsen. Additional highlights are scenic cruising in Garibaldi Fjord in Alberto de Agostini National Park to see the Garibaldi Glacier; visiting the town of Puerto Natales, the gateway to Torres del Paine National Park ; and seeing the longest Southern Hemisphere glacier outside of Antarctica (which grows by as much as 150 feet a day), the Pio XI Glacier in Bernado O'Higgins National Park. This epic adventure begins March 9, 2024, in Buenos Aires and ends in Valparaíso, Chile.

The ship for the voyage, MS Roald Amundsen, is a hybrid vessel that reduces CO2 emissions by using electrical propulsion – and it's designed specifically for use in polar waters. The vessel carries just 500 guests (to adhere to regulations for visiting Antarctica) and features all exterior cabins with Scandinavian inspired decor. Guests will also find an Explorer lounge and bar, three dining venues, the Science Center, a sauna and spa, and other amenities. Fares are mostly all-inclusive, covering a complimentary expedition jacket; the use of expedition equipment like boots and trekking poles; landing activities; most dining options; and wine, beer and soft drinks at meals.

Lindblad Expeditions – National Geographic: Journey to Antarctica: The White Continent

Ralph Lee Hopkins | Courtesy of Lindblad Expeditions

Lindblad Expeditions was the first company to bring citizen explorers to Antarctica in 1966, pioneering travel to this remote destination. The line's 13-night expedition to Antarctica is offered nearly 20 times throughout the summer season in 2024 on one of three ships. Depending on the ship, guests will have one evening in either Buenos Aires or Santiago, Chile , before flying to Ushuaia the next morning to embark the vessel.

With about five days to explore Antarctica, you'll have time to take in the awe-inspiring landscapes and look for seals and blue-eyed shags up close from Zodiacs. On land, watch thousands of Adélie and gentoo penguins as they playfully slide down the snow-covered hills on their bellies – one right after the other – diving headfirst into the icy waters. After the adventure, a private charter flight will return you to either Buenos Aires or Santiago before your return flight home.

The line's newest expedition vessel, National Geographic Resolution, accommodates just 138 guests – and there are two new cabins for solo cruisers . Guests on the Polar Class 5 vessel will have a National Geographic photographer and a Lindblad-National Geographic-certified photo instructor and video chronicler documenting the trip. Onboard amenities include a yoga studio, a wellness specialist, infinity-style hot tubs, two restaurants and a chef's table, and plenty of indoor and outdoor viewing areas. This ship also carries an ROV (a remotely operated vehicle) for underwater exploration and other high-tech video gear.

You can even book an overnight stay in an igloo (on a first-come, first-served basis) and spend the evening under the polar sky. Fares are mostly all-inclusive and include all onboard meals and most meals ashore; nonalcoholic and alcoholic beverages; transfers; excursions; a complimentary jacket; and more.

Silversea: King George Island to King George Island (Antarctica Bridge)

Courtesy of Silversea

Silversea's six-night Antarctica Bridge expedition takes guests round-trip by a business class flight directly to the Antarctica Peninsula, flying into King George Island from Punta Arenas, Chile. This itinerary is offered several times throughout the season for guests who don't have extensive time to travel – or are nervous about sailing the Drake Passage. Silversea 's pricing is all-inclusive, and guests can choose between door-to-door or port-to-port fares.

While the weather determines the specific itinerary in Antarctica, guests can expect to have several excursions in the Antarctic Sound and as many as nine excursions on the Antarctic Peninsula that include hiking, kayaking and scenic Zodiac cruises with the expedition team. There's also one excursion in the South Shetland Islands, where you can look for massive elephant seals. There will be an abundance of bird and animal viewing on wildlife-rich King George Island, the largest of the South Shetland Islands, which is home to Adélie, chinstrap and gentoo penguins as well as Weddell and leopard seals.

Oceanwide Expeditions and Swoop Antarctica: Quest for the Emperor Penguins of Snow Hill Island

Getty Images

Swoop Antarctica's 10-night adventure-filled journey takes wildlife and history enthusiasts into the ice-choked waters of the Weddell Sea, past towering tabular icebergs, in search of the emperor penguin's rookery on Snow Hill: one of the most remote penguin rookeries on the planet. The incredible itinerary also sails through the same waters where famed Antarctic explorer Sir Ernest Shackleton's ship, the Endurance, sank in 1915 – and to the rarely seen west slopes of the Antarctic Sound.

Other highlights include Zodiac and helicopter landings (weather permitting) to additional remote locales, including Seymour Island, where the Swedish Antarctic Expedition of 1901 to 1904 spent a winter season; Brown Bluff, one of the most scenic places on the northern tip of the Antarctic Continent and home to a large Adélie penguin rookery; and the volcanic crater of Deception Island.

There are two sailings in November 2024 on board the 1A-class, ice-strengthened Oceanwide Expeditions' Ortelius: a 108-passenger former Russian research vessel. Fares includes all meals and nonalcoholic beverages, all Zodiac and shore excursions, educational lectures, helicopter transfers, and group transfers. Optional adventure activities, alcoholic beverages and other personal expenses are at an additional cost.

The onboard helicopter pad is one of the features of the vessel and is used on select expeditions in the Weddell and Ross seas. It's important to note that very few companies offer expeditions to the Weddell Sea that include Snow Hill Island. While Ortelius is not a luxury vessel like other ships mentioned in this list, it is a stable expedition-style ship built for these icy – and at times treacherous – waters and weather conditions.

Viking: Antarctica & South Georgia Island

Courtesy of Viking

Viking's 18-night Antarctica and South Georgia Island expedition begins with an overnight stay in Buenos Aires followed by a flight the next morning to Ushuaia, the southernmost city in the world. The first two stops on the expedition are in the Falkland Islands, where you'll find beautiful scenery with imposing cliffs, many types of marine birds and five species of penguins. In South Georgia, watch for king penguins and seals. Then, it's on to Antarctica for days 12 through 16. Guests will have the option to reserve a spot on the Viking DNV-classed submarine for a thrilling journey into the depths of the frigid waters in Antarctica. The return sailing, by way of the Drake Passage, disembarks in Ushuaia.

In 2024, this itinerary is available Jan. 31 and again Dec. 15 on Viking Octantis. The purpose-built Polar Class 6 vessel accommodates up to 378 guests and offers many of the same venues found on Viking's ocean ships, including the Explorers' Lounge, World Café, Mamsen's, Manfredi's Italian Restaurant and the Nordic Spa. There are also expedition-specific features, such as Expedition Central, the Science Lab and – for educational lectures and briefings – the Aula theater. Viking's fares are mostly all-inclusive, with all meals and wine and beer served with lunch and dinner; 24-hour specialty teas, coffees and nonalcoholic beverages; a keepsake Viking jacket; complimentary use of the excursion gear; and more.

Find an Antarctica cruise on GoToSea.

Tips on Trips and Expert Picks Newsletter

Travel tips, vacation ideas and more to make your next vacation stellar.

Sign up to receive the latest updates from U.S News & World Report and our trusted partners and sponsors. By clicking submit, you are agreeing to our Terms and Conditions & Privacy Policy .

Expert tips on Antarctica expeditions

There are many factors to consider when planning an Antarctica expedition, including where you want to travel to, the length of the trip and whether you want to sail the famed Drake Passage twice.

To provide helpful insights and information to plan your trip, U.S. News reached out to an expert in the region, Aurora Expeditions' expedition leader, Ashley Perrin , for tips on planning your adventure to the White Continent. Perrin has degrees in both geography and oceanography from the University of Southampton. She was appointed as the first woman boating officer in Antarctica by the British Antarctic Survey in 2009, and has led multiple expeditions to Antarctica, South Georgia and the Falklands.

Which month is best (in your opinion) to travel to Antarctica and why? 

Perrin: "My favorite time to travel to Antarctica is the end of December or beginning of January, because the penguin chicks are starting to come out and you get the most wildlife spotting opportunities, with marine mammals, penguins and albatross – on top of the spectacular scenery."

What length of trip do you recommend for first-time visitors?

Perrin: "The 10- to 12-day Spirit of Antarctica or Antarctic Explorer (with Aurora Expeditions) is a fantastic introduction to the Antarctic Peninsula. If you had the additional time and opportunity, ideally you would also opt for a voyage that visits South Georgia. For many travelers, this is really the jewel in the crown of the Antarctic experience because of the incredible wildlife opportunities here."

What should you look for in an expedition ship/tour when planning a trip to Antarctica?

Perrin: "Travelers should look for a high-quality educational experience, including lectures and opportunities for Citizen Science. This is such a fascinating and important destination, and you want to ensure you can learn and take as much in as you can. A pivotal factor in this is also choosing a company that offers low passenger numbers.

"Travelers don't have enough of an understanding of the impact of this on their voyage. In the Antarctic Peninsula only 100 people are allowed on land at one time, while at some sites it is 30 to 50 people. Having smaller groups enables passengers to have more time off ship exploring and connecting with nature, and this has such a significant impact on your experience.

"If you like to be a little more active, I would also highly recommend an operator that offers activities, such as kayaking in Antarctica. This allows you to see Antarctica from a different viewpoint and the silence is amazing. You still have opportunities to do landings as well, so I think it's the best of both worlds."

Do you prefer the combination fly/sail for the Drake Passage or sailing the Drake Passage both ways?

Perrin: "I prefer to sail both ways as it's how you earn your right to get to Antarctica! You also get more opportunities to see wildlife like seabirds, and it gives you extra time to prepare for the Antarctic experience through pre-lectures and education. Travelers arrive with more of an understanding of what to expect."

Any other tips, advice or comments you'd like to share?

Perrin: "Do your research into the operator you are choosing and their different offerings – things like passenger numbers, expedition team experience and off ship activities – as these can all have a significant impact on the travel experience. There is also a big difference between traditional cruise operators and expedition operators and what travelers can expect. We ensure that our passengers are exploring and getting off the ship as much as possible.

"I would also add that it's important to do your research into the areas that you're most interested in. For example, it could be history, exploration and walking in someone's footsteps (such as Sir Ernest Shackleton), or the types of wildlife you might see. Having a deeper understanding of the history and the region really does enhance the experience once you are there."

Frequently Asked Questions

An expedition where you get off the ship and make landings on the Antarctic peninsula typically costs about $10,000 per person for a 10-night voyage. However, depending on the cruise line, the ship and dates of travel – and whether you sail or fly the Drake Passage – you could spend as much as $29,000 per person for a 12-night expedition or more. There are slightly lower prices for some expeditions, such as a few with Hurtigruten Expeditions, and you can find reduced fares and deals with lines like Atlas Ocean Voyages and Quark Expeditions. In addition, there are extended polar expeditions that range from a 14-night trip to the 94-night Pole-to-Pole Ultimate Bucket List Expedition Cruise with Hurtigruten Expeditions, which is priced at close to $48,000.

If you're not interested in getting off the ship in Antarctica to see penguins and seals up close (but no closer than 15 feet, according to the Antarctic Treaty), you can opt for a voyage on a large cruise ship that sails around the continent for a much lower cost. Just know that you won't be able to disembark at any point in Antarctica. For example, Norwegian Cruise Line has a 14-night Antarctica and South America voyage that makes a round trip from Buenos Aires, Argentina, for as low as $999 per person. You may be able to find even cheaper fares from lines such as Celebrity Cruises or Princess Cruises.

It's important to note that by the rules set forth in the Antarctic Treaty, only ships carrying 500 or less passengers are permitted to make landings on the Antarctica peninsula. The Antarctic Treaty, along with the International Association of Antarctica Tour Operators, has strict conservation protocols and regulates that no more than 100 passengers are allowed to go ashore at one time. The IAATO works with more than 100 Antarctica outfitters to create the guidelines and safety procedures to protect the fragile environment and wildlife in this remote part of the world.

The following cruise lines offer small ship expeditions in Antarctica with no more than 500 passengers. You can also look at tour companies – such as Abercrombie & Kent, G Adventures, Adventure Life and Swoop Antarctica – that exclusively charter ships or help navigate the decision-making process for their clients and book individual expeditions with the cruise lines.

• Atlas Ocean Voyages
• Aurora Expeditions
• Hapag-Lloyd Cruises
• Hurtigruten Expeditions
• Lindblad Expeditions – National Geographic
• Quark Expeditions
• Scenic Luxury Cruises & Tours
• Seabourn Cruise Line

These larger cruise lines offer sailings around the Antarctic Peninsula, which may include scenic cruising in and around the Gerlache Strait, Elephant Island, Paradise Bay and Schollart Channel.

• Celebrity Cruises
• Holland America Line
• Norwegian Cruise Line
• Oceania Cruises
• Princess Cruises
• Regent Seven Seas Cruises
• Royal Caribbean International

The answer depends on the expedition. The majority of passengers will depart from South America in either Ushuaia, Argentina – which is also known as the "End of the World" – or Punta Arenas, Chile. Then it will take approximately two days to cross the Drake Passage to reach the Antarctic Peninsula. Some lines also offer chartered flights from Punta Arenas to Antarctica, which only take about two hours. Some passengers who have taken the flight say it can be as unnerving as sailing the Drake Passage, since weather conditions can delay the flight for up to several days where you could potentially miss the trip.

Cruises on larger ships that only sail around the Antarctic Peninsula may embark in Buenos Aires; Santiago, Chile; Puerto Williams, Chile; Rio de Janeiro; ports in Florida or New Zealand; or even the South Shetland Islands.

The expedition and cruise season to Antarctica extends from November to March, which is during the austral summer in the Southern Hemisphere. But Antarctica is still the windiest, coldest and driest continent on Earth, so weather conditions are unpredictable and can change quickly – even during the summertime. One minute the sun may be out, and the next minute it can be snowing and extremely windy and cloudy.

Visitors in November can expect temperatures between a low of 25 degrees to a high of 32 degrees Fahrenheit. The warmest temperatures are typically in January, when you'll find days ranging between 33 to 36 degrees before they start to drop again in February.

Most expedition companies provide jackets that you can take home, so you won't need to bring a heavy parka if it's given to you on board. They may also provide waterproof boots that you'll need to use for wet landings. It's best to check with your expedition line to see what's available on the ship, what you can rent or buy, and what you'll need to pack and bring with you. Due to the unpredictable weather, it's advisable to bring different types of layers.

Here are some of the items you'll want to pack:

Layers: Pack at least two top and two bottom quick-drying base layers (or more, depending on the length of your expedition) that wick moisture, such as those made of silk, wool or bamboo. It does get toasty when you're layered up and moving around ashore, so choose lightweight options that will layer easily under the rest of your clothing and keep you warm and dry. For your mid-layer top, go with a lightweight polar fleece or vest; for the bottom, quick-drying warm tights or fleece pants are a good option.

You'll also want to layer what's on your feet, starting with a wicking pair of socks made from silk or synthetic polypropylene, followed by a good pair of merino wool socks from a brand like Smartwool. Glove liners are another must, especially if your hands tend to get cold. If you can, buy insulated waterproof gloves with removable liners to save packing an extra item. You may also want to toss a few hand and foot warmers in the suitcase in case you need extra warmth. Bring a lighter pair of insulated gloves for warmer days off the ship.

And don't forget a lined wool beanie, a set of earmuffs, and a balaclava or fleece neck gaiter to keep your ears and face warm and your nose and mouth protected from the cold air and wind.

Waterproof gear: The parka and tall waterproof boots may be provided on the ship, but if they're not, you'll need to bring your own. You'll also need wind- and waterproof pants to go over your base layer and mid-layers. If they're tapered at the bottom, you should be able to tuck them into your boots. Perrin says this is one of the most important items you should purchase and pack for your expedition.

Comfy clothes ­and shoes for around the ship: Most people dress casual on Antarctica cruises, so bring clothes that will be comfortable for days and evenings around the ship. It can get rough when crossing the Drake Passage, so you'll want flat or low-heeled shoes for those days at sea.

Other items you'll want to pack:

• Waterproof dry pack
• Sea-Bands and medications for motion sickness
• Camera and accessories with a waterproof cover
• Hiking poles (unless the ship has them available)
• Swimsuit (you may want to take the polar plunge!)
• Other necessary medications
• Hydrating lip balm and a good protective moisturizer
• Polarized sunglasses
• Books on the history of early exploration in Antarctica and the incredible wildlife

Why Trust U.S. News Travel

Gwen Pratesi has been an avid cruiser since her early 20s. She has sailed on nearly every type of cruise ship built, including the newest megaships, paddle-wheelers on the Mississippi River, and an 18-stateroom river ship on the Mekong River in Vietnam and Cambodia. She has also cruised on a traditional masted sailing ship and on a small luxury expedition vessel in Antarctica crossing the notorious Drake Passage twice. Pratesi covers the travel and culinary industries for major publications including U.S. News & World Report.

You might also be interested in:

• Cruise Packing List
• Alaska Cruise Packing List
• The Best Alaska Cruise Lines
• The Best Time to Cruise to Alaska
• The Best Cruise Insurance Plans

Tags: Travel , Cruises

World's Best Places To Visit

• # 1 South Island, New Zealand
• # 4 Bora Bora

If you make a purchase from our site, we may earn a commission. This does not affect the quality or independence of our editorial content.

You May Also Like

The 15 best chicago tours for 2024.

John Rodwan May 1, 2024

The 10 Best Harry Potter Tours in London

Marisa Méndez April 30, 2024

12 Cheap Fourth of July Getaways

April 29, 2024

The Best Tours of Buckingham Palace

Laura French April 29, 2024

Flight Canceled or Delayed? What to Do

Amanda Norcross April 26, 2024

The Best Beach Hats

Megan Johnson and Sharael Kolberg April 26, 2024

The Best Florence Tours

John Rodwan April 25, 2024

The 9 Best Louisiana Swamp Tours of 2024

John Rodwan April 24, 2024

How Much Does a Cruise Cost?

Gwen Pratesi April 24, 2024

The Best Whale Watching in Cape Cod

Lyn Mettler April 24, 2024

• Science →
• Current Science
• Long-Term Science
• Antarctic Science Platform
• Scholarships
• Logistics Support Request
• The New Zealand – Australia Antarctic Science Conference 2023
• Adélie Penguin Census
• Scott Base →
• Webcams and Weather
• Our Facilities
• Scott Base Redevelopment
• Travelling to Antarctica
• Environment →
• Environmental Protection
• Protecting Special Areas
• Comprehensive Environmental Evaluation
• Jobs →
• Education →
• Education Hub
• Media →
• Community Engagement Programme
• Winter School
• Photo Library
• About Us →
• Tiriti O Waitangi

Partnerships

• Policies & Publications
• Official Information Act
• Contact Us →
• Supplier Information
• COVID-19 Requirements

Antarctica New Zealand

Supporting world leading science and environmental protection.

Antarctica New Zealand is the government agency responsible for carrying out New Zealand's activities in Antarctica, supporting world leading science and environmental protection. Our vision is: Antarctica and the Southern Ocean – valued, protected, understood

Featured Press Releases

Update: Scott Base Redevelopment

The Antarctica New Zealand Board has requested additional detail on the Scott Base Redevelopment before making a decision on the way forward for the project. Last year, Antarctica New Zealand was not able to reach an agreement on… Read More

Renowned microbial biologist, Professor Craig Cary, leaves a legacy in extreme ecosystems

People around the world are mourning the loss of University of Waikato microbial biologist, Professor Craig Cary, who dedicated his life to research in some of the world’s toughest environments. Professor Cary passed away unexpec… Read More

Come, make a difference - in Antarctica!

Antarctica New Zealand is looking for adventurous individuals to join the prestigious team supporting Antarctic research at Scott Base and beyond for the upcoming 2024/25 season. With a legacy dating back to 1957, Scott Base serv… Read More

Environment

• Media and resources

Language English

Travelling to Antarctica

In the 1980s, only around 2,000 travellers visited this pristine yet fragile and dangerous region each year. In 2017-18, approximately 50,000 tourists visited the continent, with several trips departing from New Zealand’s shores.

Our approach to tourism in the Antarctic

As a party to the Antarctic Treaty System, New Zealand is required to minimise the environmental impact of travellers to the region. We do this by:

• Ensuring any activities are safe and environmentally responsible.
• Limiting visits to sites where cumulative activity will lead to their deterioration.
• Opposing the expansion of permanent or semi-permanent land-based tourism in Antarctica, especially in the Ross Dependency.
• Providing only humanitarian assistance and basic hospitality for tourist and non-governmental expeditions.

2003 New Zealand Policy Statement on Tourism and Other Non-Governmental Activities in Antarctica

• NZ Policy Statement on Tourism and other NGO Activities in Antarctica 2003 [PDF 119 KB]

The Antarctic Treaty has guidelines for visitors and tour operators to the Antarctic. These provide direction on limiting the effect on the environment and wildlife, staying safe and respecting scientific activities. It's important that these guidelines are followed. Tour operators must also make certain preparations before departure, which include advising MFAT of travel plans and getting Ministerial permission.

Find out more if you are c onsidering planning activities in Antarctica .

• Share on Facebook
• Share on Twitter
• Share on LinkedIn

We use cookies and other tracking technologies to improve your browsing experience on our website, to analyze our website traffic, and to understand where our visitors are coming from. You can find out more information on our Privacy Page .

Antarctica and Subantarctic Cruises on SALE

Suite deals - antarctica suites on sale, save up to 20% on antarctic voyages.

Discover the spectacular wildlife havens of Australia's Macquarie Island and New Zealand's Subantarctic Islands and follow in the footsteps of heroic explorers into the heart of Antarctica's Ross Sea with small ship expedition cruise pioneers Heritage Expeditions - as featured on television's Go Further South and Antarctica from Above documentaries.

SAVE 20%* on Heritage Suites and SAVE 15%* on Worsley Suites on our 2025 In the Wake of Scott & Shackleton Ross Sea voyages into the heart of Antarctica.

Enjoy all-inclusive travel aboard our luxurious 140-guest flagship Heritage Adventurer where sophisticated accommodation and gourmet fare meets carefully crafted and unique itineraries, while a fleet of 14 Zodiacs means there's a seat for every guest on every excursion.

*T&Cs apply, new bookings only, excludes landing fees, 2025 departures only when booked by 31 May 2024.

Antarctica photo & video gallery, about heritage expeditions, ambassadors for conservation, pioneers of discovery, and leaders in expedition travel to the world’s best-kept secrets..

For over 35 years, Heritage Expeditions has pioneered voyages to some of the most wild and biologically rich regions on the planet. Our mission is to increase awareness and conservation of the natural world through responsible expedition travel.

Expert Team

Our team of naturalists, historians, biologists and ornithologists bring an enormous wealth of experience, knowledge and passion to our expeditions, both in the field and onboard our ship during our lecture series.

Our new flagship, the 140-guest Heritage Adventurer, combines the highest passenger ship iceclass rating with an international flair and luxury amenities. Guests enjoy spacious suites, elegant common areas and cuisine prepared by top chefs.

Heritage Adventurer

Heritage Adventurer,  formerly known as  MS Hanseatic ,   is a true pioneering expedition vessel of exceptional pedigree. Originally designed for 184 guests, Heritage Adventurer now welcomes just 140 travellers ensuring spacious, stylish and comfortable voyages, and with a fleet of 14 Zodiacs to maximise the adventure. Savor daily international gourmet cuisine from talented chefs across two lavish restaurants, and settle into spacious and well-appointed accommodations each night. Enjoy 360-degree views and comfortable sun loungers on the Observation Deck, relax in the Observation Lounge with library, bar and panoramic views, and reinvigorate in the heated salt water pool, well-equipped gym, hot tub, sauna and steam room. 

Technical Specs

Year Built: 1991

Shipyard: Rauma, Finland

Classification: Lloyds 1AS, GL E4

Accommodation: 140 guests

Length: 124 metres

Cruising Speed: 12 knots

Zodiacs: 14

Antarctica & Subantarctic Seasons 2024-2025

Join us on a bucket list adventure, in the wake of scott & shackleton: ross sea antarctica.

28 DAYS 7 Jan – 3 Feb 2025 SAVE UP TO 20%* 2 Feb – 1 Mar 2025 SAVE UP TO 20%* Queenstown-Bluff, New Zealand and return

• Walk in Sir Ernest Shackleton’s footsteps at his hut at Cape Royds
• Venture back in time at Borchgrevink’s Hut at Cape Adare 
• Be welcomed ashore at research stations in Terra Nova Bay
• Visit Enderby Island in sea lion breeding season
• See the Royal Penguins on Macquarie Island at their peak
• Emperor Penguins, Royals, Kings, Adelie Penguins, whales, seals...
• Adelie Penguins are flourishing with chicks about to start fledging  
• Catch the peak flowering of the Megaherbs in the Subantarctic 
• 24-hour sunlight in the Ross Sea
• Orca feeding amongst the ice, especially in McMurdo Sound
• Navigate through pack ice that guards the entrance to the Ross Sea

SUITE DEALS! Save 20% on Heritage Suites and 15% on Worsley Suites in 2025!* *T&Cs apply, new bookings only, excludes landing fees, 2025 departures only when booked by 31 May 2024.

Get the Brochure

Galapagos of the Southern Ocean: New Zealand and Australia's Subantarctic Islands

18 – 29 Dec 2024 Queenstown-Bluff, New Zealand and return

22 Nov – 4 Dec 2024 Hobart, Australia to Bluff-Queenstown, New Zealand

Aboard  Heritage Adventurer

Visit remote World Heritage Sites: The Snares, Auckland Islands, Macquarie Island and Campbell Island

• Explore Macquarie Island with Park Ranger guides
• Observe the raucous antics of Macquarie Island's Royal Penguin and King Penguin colonies
• Watch lumbering Elephant Seals challenging each other on Macquarie Island
• Zodiac cruise Lusitania Bay - one of the largest penguin breeding colonies on the planet (Macquarie Island)
• Spend the day hiking the unforgettable landscapes of Enderby and Campbell Islands
• Look for the elusive Campbell and Auckland Island Snipe
• Wade waist deep through fields of flowering megaherbs
• Experience the rarely-seen early Albatross courting ritual known as gamming
• Explore wildlife-rich rugged coastlines
• Human history - Coastwatcher's Huts, early settlements and shipwreck tales

Beyond Fiordland: New Zealand's Wildest Islands

12 DAYS SAVE 15%* 28 Dec 2024 – 8 Jan 202 5

Aboard Heritage Adventurer Queenstown-Bluff, New Zealand and Return

• Visit remote World Heritage Sites: The Snares, Auckland Islands and Campbell Island, and explore Stewart and Ulva Islands, Fiordland (Doubtful Sound, Dusky Sound and Acheron Passage, Astronomer’s Point and Pickersgill Harbour)
• Discover the primordial majesty and unspoiled beauty of Fiordland
• Explore sea caves and observe wildlife in spectacular numbers
• Zodiac cruise glittering waterways between podocarp forests looking penguins and dolphins
• Visit some of New Zealand's most remote and iconic locations, many only accessible by expedition ship

*T&Cs apply, subject availalbility, when booked by 31 May 2024, cannot be used in conjunction with any other promotion

Indonesian explorer: raja ampat to papua new guinea.

19 DAYS 13 – 31 Oct 2024

Bali, Indonesia to Port Moresby, Papua New Guinea + FREE FLIGHT TO CAIRNS* Aboard  Heritage Adventurer

• Enjoy the unforgettable of swimming with the gentle Whale Sharks of Cenderawasih Bay
• Visit Komodo National Park - land of the Komodo Dragon
• Discover Jacques Cousteau's "underwater nirvana" Wakatobi National Park
• Explore the forgotten tropical paradise of Raja Ampat
• Snorkel pristine coral gardens looking for Dugong, Parrotfish, Clownfish, Manta Rays and Pygmy seahorses
• Discover ancient rock in hidden caves on rarely visited islands
• Brilliant birding with up to 14 species of Bird-of-paradise including Red Bird-of-paradise, Wilson's Bird-of-paradise, Magnificent Bird-of-paradise and Lesser Bird-of-paradise
• Swim with thousands of stingless jellyfish of and explore Tomolol Caves
• Trek in to the lush rolling hills and tropical rainforest of the Arfak Mountains
• Thrilling culture encounters at villages largely cut off from the outside world
• Discover WWII relics and snorkel Japanese war plane wrecks

Discover the Secrets of Melanesia: Exploring Papua New Guinea, The Solomon Islands and Vanuatu

17 DAYS 30 Oct – 15 Nov 2024

Port Moresby, Papua New Guinea to Port Vila, Vanuatu + FREE FLIGHT CAIRNS TO PORT MORESBY* Aboard  Heritage Adventurer

• Discover the hidden gems of Papua New Guinea, the Solomon Islands and Vanuatu
• Travel up the Sepik River, home to traditional artists
• Be some of the first travellers in over two decades to return to the spectacular island of Bougainville
• Superb snorkeling in crystalline waters
• Mangrove Zodiac cruise in search of Dugong and crocodiles
• Meet friendly local villagers – remarkable and diverse cultural visits from island to island
• A Naturalist and Marine Biologist will also be on this expedition
• Exeptional birding including Manus Friarbird, Mussau Monarch, Superb Pitta, Roviana Rail, Solomon Sea Eagle, Beck's Petrel, Vanikoro White-eye, Kolombangara Monarch, Vanuatu Megapode and White-headed Fruit Dove
• Visit isolated Ambrym - ‘island of volcanoes' and home to traditional Rom dance
• Swimming at iconic Champagne Beach

Birding Down Under: Subantarctic and Chatham Islands

3 – 19 Dec 2024 Aboard Heritage Adventurer Queenstown-Bluff, New Zealand and return

• Island Groups: Snares, Bounty Islands, Antipodes Islands, Auckland Islands, Campbell Island, Macquarie Island & Chatham Islands
• Incredibly rare Chatham Island Black Robin and Taiko (Magenta Petrel), and Forbe's/Chatham Parakeet
• Visit the only breeding sites of the Erect-crested Penguin and home to the world's rarest shag the endemic Bounty Island Shag in Antipodes and Bounty Islands
• Pyramid Rock, the only breeding place of the Chatham Island Albatross
• Cross the Chathams Rise, known location of Wandering Royal and Salvin's Albatross, and Cape, Westland Black and Cook's Petrel

Forgotten Islands of the South Pacific: Subantarctic Islands

28 Dec 2024 – 4 Jan 2025

Aboard  Heritage Adventurer Queenstown-Bluff, New Zealand and return 

• Island Groups: Snares, Aucklands, Campbell
• Watch Yellow-eyed Penguins make their way to and from the sea to feed hungry chicks
• Hiking on Enderby Island
• Carpets of flowering endemic daisys on Campbell Island
• Southern Elephant Seals haul out on Northwest Bay, Campbell
• Observe nesting Southern Royal and Light-mantled Sooty Albatross, and numerous endemic birds
• Rare Hooker’s or New Zealand Sea Lions and their pups on Enderby Island
• Human history - Coastwatcher’s Huts, early settlements and shipwreck tales
• Flowering Rata Forests, rolling hills of flowering megaherbs, large tree daisies
• Options to climb spectacular Mt Honey or hike Col Lyall Saddle
• Look for the elusive Subantarctic Snipe on Auckland and Campbell Islands

Unseen Fiordland, Stewart Island and The Snares: Exploring New Zealand's Remote Backyard

Choose your adventure, select your voyage(s) to receive the e-brochure, heritage expeditions.

Spanning two hemispheres — Antarctica’s Ross Sea and the Subantarctic Islands , New Zealand , Australia's Kimberley coast , Vanuatu , Solomon Islands , Papua New Guinea , Indonesia , Philippines , South Korea and Japan — we journey to UNESCO World Heritage sites, pristine nature reserves, and far-flung indigenous communities steeped in tradition.

• DESTINATIONS
• CAPTAIN’S LOG

• NEW ZEALAND
• SOUTH PACIFIC
• SUBANTARCTIC ISLANDS
• Testimonials
• Responsible Travel
• Expedition Calendar
• Trip Reports

• 1300 720 564
• Brochures Brochures -->
• Currency Select your language English Location: AU Location: NZ Location: UK Location: US Location: CA
• Antarctica Cruises from Australia and New Zealand
• WHY CHOOSE CHIMU ADVENTURES
• FEATURED TRIPS & DEALS
• 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.

Taking a cruise ship to Antarctica from Australia

You can also cruise Antarctica from Australia, departing or disembarking from either Australia (Hobart) or New Zealand (Invercargill, Lyttleton or Bluff). This amazing adventure visits the lesser frequented East Antarctica and 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 you've arrived in 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, so Antarctica tours departing from Australia and New Zealand allow you to see a unique part of the continent missed by many visitors.

One of the biggest advantages of Antarctica tours from Australia and New Zealand is that you board your ship and head straight to Antarctica—no international flights required. However, the trade-off is that you’ll spend more time at sea and the journey is longer, which means the cruise to Antarctica from Australia price is more expensive.

Where does a cruise from Australia to Antarctica depart from?

Australia and New Zealand both have acted as lesser-known cruise gateways to visit the incredible sights of East Antarctica. Here you will board your vessel and travel directly to one of the earth’s most remote and incredible locations.

Hobart in Australia and Invercargill in New Zealand both host Antarctic cruise vessels heading south for the summer. A round trip cruise to this part of the world will take about 21 days all up, including 7 days crossing to Antarctica, frequently stopping to visit remote islands such as Macquarie, Snares, Auckland and Campbell.

What is it like: The cruise to East Antarctica alone is an extraordinary journey in itself. Visiting remote islands along the way offers the traveller an incredible opportunity to witness unique wildlife, history and geology. These islands were frequented and studied by Australia’s Antarctic Iceman of the heroic age of exploration, Douglas Mawson, and continue to be examined by modern scientists today.

Reaching the continent of East Antarctica after a week of exploration is a sight to behold with large ice shelves, vast seas and icebergs greeting travellers like a giant spectacle, a reward for taking the time to get there. Here you have the best chance of seeing the famed Emperor penguin, and it is also the base for some of Antarctica’s most incredible historic moments. If weather conditions allow, it is also the place to be to visit Douglas Mawson’s huts and indulge in Australia’s first true link to Antarctica.

Getting there: Using your local airlines in Australia should offer great connections through to both Hobart or Invercargill where you will meet the vessel for your Antarctic cruise adventure.

More information: There are fewer options to visit East Antarctica than there is on the Peninsula, but they are all incredible journeys. Click below to browse our favourite journeys.

Want to travel to Antarctica first flying from Australia/New Zealand then cruising from South America?

Where: Argentina’s Ushuaia, the southernmost city of the world, is the primary gateway for Antarctica cruises to the Antarctic Peninsula as well as the sub-Antarctic islands such as South Georgia and the Falkland Islands. It is also possible to depart your Antarctica cruise from Chile’s Punta Arenas – this is where our Fly/Cruise options depart from, for those passengers who want to skip the crossing of the Drake Passage.

What is it like: The Antarctic Peninsula is the most popular and most frequently visited region of Antarctica and perfect for first-time visitors. It offers the ideal introduction to Antarctica, its incredible wildlife, glacier landscapes and history.

Getting there:  LATAM flies from the east coast of Australia to Santiago where connections can be made through to Ushuaia or Punta Arenas. Leaving from Perth, you may want to consider an Emirates flight to Buenos Aires, which can both save time and money. If you’re interested in Antarctica cruises out of South America, please visit our main Antarctica Cruise page.

For the best rates for Australians travelling to Antarctica:  click here

Still wondering? Contact us for a chat, we know it’s a big decision to visit the world’s last frontier, we’d rather talk you through the options, so feel free to reach out for advice.  

WHY TRAVEL WITH CHIMU ADVENTURES

We are true polar specialists. Almost every Chimu team member has travelled to either Antarctica or the Arctic and has an average of ten years' experience in selling the region. 

We have inspected and continue to thoroughly research each individual vessel we work with, selecting only small ships with strong environmental, safety, and ethical credentials. 

We know all things polar by heart and will work with you to determine which ship and itinerary is best suited. Travellers visit the polar regions for different reasons, including wildlife, photography, snowshoeing, and kayaking, so we'll find the perfect expedition for your interests. 

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

FEATURED Antarctica Cruises from Australia and New Zealand TRIPS & DEALS

Special deals">antarctica special deals.

Treat yourself to a trip of a lifetime to Antarctica and save with one of these incredible deals. 

All Inclusive Flight Package Antarctica Untouched

Buenos Aires, Antarctic Peninsula, South Shetland Islands

Ship:  Seaventure

START: Sydney, Australia

FINISH: Sydney, Australia

PRICED FROM

AUD 16,949*

Best of Antarctica: Pristine Wilderness with Deborah Conway

Antarctica, Antarctic Peninsula

Ship:  Ocean Endeavour

START: Ushuaia, Argentina

FINISH: Ushuaia, Argentina

PRICED FROM Was AUD 13,880

NOW AUD 11,104*

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

AUD 31,930*

Expedition to New Zealand's Subantarctic Islands

New Zealand & Subantarctic Islands

AUD 20,830*

Galapagos of the Southern Ocean

Subantarctic Islands of New Zealand

SHIP: Heritage Adventurer

START: Queenstown, New Zealand

FINISH: Queenstown, New Zealand

AUD 14,995*

Best of Antarctica

Antarctic Peninsula

SHIP: Ocean Endeavour

PRICED FROM Was AUD 12,540

NOW AUD 10,032*

Best of Antarctica: In Depth

Antarctic Sound, Lemaire Channel, Antarctic Peninsula and…

PRICED FROM Was AUD 17,690

NOW AUD 14,152*

Unexplored Antarctica Between Two Continents

Antarctica & Ross Sea

SHIP: Le Commandant Charcot

START: Santiago, Chile

FINISH: Hobart, Australia

AUD 70,860*

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

Looking for blogs on Antarctica from Australia and NZ, Latin America, or even the Arctic? If so, we have you covered! The Chimu blog is updated regularly with new articles and is packed with great content on planning your trip, what to pack, and amazing adventures in each destination. 

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

1 . 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.

2 . 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.

3 . 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

4 . 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 almost 20 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.

5 . 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.

6 . 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.

Gone fishing... for some of New Zealand's trickiest trout: A stay at the world-famous resort where landing a whopper is a daily affair

• Jeremy Taylor checks into Owen River Lodge on New Zealand's South Island
• 'Every wall is plastered with photos of happy anglers holding a prize catch'
• READ MORE:  You've been eating corn on the cob all wrong! Here's why... 

The rotor blades are deafening as our chopper swoops down onto a rocky outcrop beside the Mokihinui River.

This remote backwater on New Zealand ’s South Island is a difficult two-day trek from civilisation and infested with blood-thirsty sandflies.

Cut off from communication with the outside world, even the most optimistic travel agent would call it a tough sell.

Yet this beautiful spot strikes a chord with fishermen hoping to catch one of the largest and most difficult species to hook - brown trout. Secretive and suspicious, salmo trutta has a reputation as a crafty and difficult fish.

Brown trout are widespread around the globe, but thanks to copious rainfall on this northern area of the island, the cool, unpolluted waters help make the region supremely special for anglers.

Landing a 10 lb trout is almost an everyday occurrence for guests at Owen River Lodge - one of the world’s most famous fishing resorts.

On the edge of Kahurangi National Park, the intimate property is a four-hour drive from Christchurch International Airport. Every wall is plastered with photos of happy anglers holding a prize catch. The record is 14.5 lb (a 2 lb tiddler is a good weight in most British rivers).

Set up 20 years ago by fly fishing legend Felix Borenstein, it’s just been taken over by U.S.-based Eleven Experience.

My fellow guests are seasoned fishermen and women who have crossed continents in pursuit of big fish. But can the lodge’s expert guides ensure a beginner like me can also land a whopper?

As the chopper disappears down the gorge, the call of paradise shelducks and the grey gerygone warbler are all that disturb the peace. Before we unpack our fishing kit, health and safety requires guide Chris Williams to show me the workings of a satellite phone - a sobering reminder of our remote location.

I don’t know a clinch knot from a triple surgeon, so while Chris saves time by tying my line and wet fly - designed to sink to the riverbed where the trout feed - he also explains the intricacies of sight fishing.

Rather than casting from the bank, I will wade along the river itself, stalking the fish his trained eye spots upstream.

‘You can actually see the fish you want to hook as you creep up behind them,’ says Chris. ‘The skill is casting just in front, tempting the fish to take your fly. They’re wily - sometimes one chance is all you get.’

Brown trout are prolific in New Zealand, but are not a native species. They were introduced 150 years ago from Tasmania, having originated from tributaries of the River Thames.

TRAVEL FACTS 

Rooms at Owen River Lodge from £526 to £1,048 per person per night, based on double occupancy. Price includes daily guided walk-out fishing, equipment, food and drink. A fishing licence is £82 at elevenexperience.com . Return flights from London to Christchurch with Air New Zealand costs from £1,394 ( airnewzealand.com ).

In the days before refrigeration, two boxes of fertilised eggs were sent from London on the passenger ship Norfolk, stored in blocks of ice and covered in damp moss.

The water is cold as I clamber over an assault course of slippery rocks, determined not to drop the expensive graphite rod I’m carrying in to the river. I’m wearing cumbersome waders and special boots, as well as copious amounts of insect repellent.

Time and again, a light headwind blows my featherweight fishing line off-target and the canny fish is gone in a flash.

As the day moves on, we see dozens more and, as my casting improves, I start to feel a few nibbles.

Frustrated I still can’t hook a fish, Chris finally spots a trout downwind and only a short cast away.

On the third attempt, a floating wool indicator tied into my line disappears below the surface and I strike.

This is just the beginning of a five-minute duel, as the trout bolts downstream I let line strip off the reel so the trout can swim itself to exhaustion.

It’s vital to keep a bend in the rod and the fishing line taut, but the trout is putting up a great fight. Eventually, I start to reel in as Chris waits beside me with a landing net.

It’s a thrilling moment, especially for a beginner like me.

The 4 lb fish would make a tasty supper, except New Zealand operates a strict ‘catch-and-release’ policy. The rule ensures brown trout aren’t overfished and continue to thrive, so this one will live to fight another day.

A Switzerland-size hole opened in Antarctica's sea ice in 2016-17. Now we know why

The abnormally large 'Maud Rise polynya' has finally been explained.

Each austral winter, Antarctica undergoes a radical change. 

Sea ice surrounding the continent expands outward, effectively doubling Antarctica's size. But during the winters of 2016 and 2017, a rare hole called a polynya opened in the middle of the sea ice — one about the size of Switzerland. And scientists have just now figured out how it came to be.

The hole was named the Maud Rise polynya for the seamount, or underwater mountain, located beneath it in the Weddell Sea. According to a new study, it ultimately formed due to a combination of wind, ocean currents and underwater geography that created the perfect salty conditions to melt the sea ice.

Related: Satellites show Antarctic ice shelves have lost 74 trillion tons of water in 25 years

The Maud Rise polynya goes back further than 2016. It was first identified by Earth-sensing satellites in the 1970s, most notably during the winters from 1974 to 1976. Scientists assumed that the polynya would return each winter, but that hasn't been the case — it has only reappeared sporadically, and for brief periods. 

"2017 was the first time that we’ve had such a large and long-lived polynya in the Weddell Sea since the 1970s," study leader Aditya Narayanan, a postdoctoral research fellow at the University of Southampton in England, said in a statement .

In 2016 and 2017, the circular ocean current in the Weddell Sea was stronger than usual. As such, upwelling around Maud Rise brought warmer, saltier water closer to the surface. 

Get the Space.com Newsletter

Breaking space news, the latest updates on rocket launches, skywatching events and more!

"This upwelling helps to explain how the sea ice might melt. But as sea ice melts, this leads to a freshening of the surface water, which should in turn put a stop to the mixing," study team member Fabien Roquet, a physical oceanography professor at the University of Gothenburg in Sweden, said in the same statement. "So, another process must be happening for the polynya to persist. There must be an additional input of salt from somewhere."

— Antarctic currents supplying 40% of world's deep ocean with nutrients and oxygen slowing dramatically

— Satellites reveal catastrophic year for emperor penguins amid climate crisis in Antarctica (photos)  

— Ocean current system could shut down as early as 2025, leading to climate disaster  

Using data from satellites, autonomous floats and tagged marine mammals, the team determined that turbulent eddies around Maud Rise brought more salt into the area, which was then transferred to the surface through a process called Ekman transport. Through Ekman transport, water moves at a 90-degree angle to the wind above and influences ocean currents.

"The imprint of polynyas can remain in the water for multiple years after they’ve formed," said study team member Sarah Gille, a professor at the University of California, San Diego. "They can change how water moves around and how currents carry heat towards the continent. The dense waters that form here can spread across the global ocean."

The new study was published online today (May 1) in the journal Science Advances.

Join our Space Forums to keep talking space on the latest missions, night sky and more! And if you have a news tip, correction or comment, let us know at: [email protected].

Space.com contributing writer Stefanie Waldek is a self-taught space nerd and aviation geek who is passionate about all things spaceflight and astronomy. With a background in travel and design journalism, as well as a Bachelor of Arts degree from New York University, she specializes in the budding space tourism industry and Earth-based astrotourism. In her free time, you can find her watching rocket launches or looking up at the stars, wondering what is out there. Learn more about her work at www.stefaniewaldek.com .

China to launch sample-return mission to the moon's far side on May 3

Satellites watch as 4th global coral bleaching event unfolds (image)

Curious asteroid Selam, spotted by NASA's Lucy spacecraft, is a cosmic toddler

Most Popular

• 2 Astronauts on the moon could stay fit by running in a Wheel of Death
• 3 Watch live: China launching Chang'e 6 mission to far side of the moon early May 3 (video)
• 4 Watch ULA assemble Atlas V rocket ahead of Boeing Starliner astronaut test flight (video)
• 5 NASA's Hubble Telescope is back in action — but its TESS exoplanet hunter may now be in trouble

New Zealand Is a Trending Destination for 2024, and We’ve Got the Reels to Prove It

Adventure capital of the world. Land of the Long White Cloud. Location of Middle Earth. The friendly island nation of New Zealand has plenty to shout about. And thanks to Air New Zealand’s non-stop flights from the U.S., getting there is easier than ever. In fact, tourism to New Zealand is up 37 percent since last year (2023) according to Tourism New Zealand , so now’s the time to get on board (literally).

Curious about planning your own trip? We partnered with Air New Zealand and three travel influencers to show you how to get there, plus what to do once you land. Follow along as Alicia Tenise , Francesca Murray and Ro walk us through their in-flight experience, as well as spill the details on their once-in-a-lifetime travel itineraries in the following Reels.

Why New Zealand

Split between two land masses—the North Island and the South Island—New Zealand is packed with stunning landscapes, friendly locals and heaps to do, all within short traveling distances.

On the North Island you’ll find subtropical sandy beaches, cone-shaped mountains and steaming volcanic plateau. For city culture, there’s Auckland (the most populous) and Wellington (the capital), while the city of Rotorua and Mount Tongariro are are steeped in Māori heritage (the indigenous Polynesian people of mainland New Zealand). As for landmarks, we can’t forget the dramatic Huka Falls or Waitomo’s magical glow worm caves.

Then there’s South Island, where every corner reveals ever-more dramatic scenery, from the world-famous Marlborough vineyards to the sawtooth peaks of the Southern Alps. Be sure to visit the city of Queenstown, where you can have your pick of adrenaline-pumping activities (think: bungee jumping, white-water rafting and skydiving). The Franz Josef Glacier and Milford Sound are also two of the many showstopping landmarks just a day-trip away.

How to Get There

Why, Air New Zealand of course. What sets this airline apart is that your New Zealand experience begins the moment you step onboard. Right away, you’ll be welcomed with a “Kia ora” and that famous Kiwi hospitality the country is known for. With non-stop flight options from multiple cities in the U.S., Air New Zealand (part of Star Alliance) offers  Premium Economy  featuring spacious seats with extra legroom; the world’s first  Economy Skycouch that turns into a private bed so you can relax and recharge; and Business Premier , a seat-turned-lie-flat-bed complete with a memory foam mattress. Wherever you sit, you’ll enjoy fresh cuisine, delicious New Zealand-made wine and the latest films and music. Don’t just take it our word for it. Watch the experience from these travel pros.

As we touched on above, New Zealand offers so much in way of adventure and each of our travel creators chose a unique itinerary based on their interests. Alicia and Francesca hit up the North Island, with Alicia traveling the Pacific Coast Highway (yes, New Zealand has one too!) and Francesca visiting the Whakarewarewa, a living Māori Village, while Ro landed in the South Island and explored Queenstown and the iconic Milford Sound. Take a peek at the Reels below for the full breakdown.