Overview
If you want to travel to the ends of the earth and experience the planet’s last great wilderness, Antarctica is the destination for you. The only continent on the planet with no permanent residents, Antarctica has long captured the imaginations of explorers and adventurers.
We booked an Antarctica cruise through Southern Explorations. It was hands down the best trip of my life. Deanna was very helpful through the entire booking process. I would highly recommend using Southern Explorations!
– Elle Kyllo, Sea Spirit
When to Go
Antarctica expeditions only take place between late-October and early-April, the southern hemisphere’s Summer.
When to Book
Future season rates and dates are released 12-18 months prior to that season, and booking early will give you the largest selection of options and early booking promotions. Due to the short season, many departures will fill up quickly. We recommend booking early – especially if you need a particular cabin category or travel window, as many ships raise their rates as the season approaches.
Last Minute Bookings
If you are flexible about timing, ship, itinerary or cabin category, “Last Minute” promotions that rival the early booking rates may be released as the season approaches, but please note your airfare may also be a lot higher to get to your starting city.
Crossing the Drake Passage
Crossing the famed Drake Passage by boat typically takes 36-48 hours, depending on conditions. It can be pleasantly calm or impressively rough (or somewhere in between). This Rite of Passage cannot be predicted by season, but taking motion sickness medicine during the crossing should ward against any issues.
Skipping the Drake Passage
If you have no interest in crossing the Drake Passage, you can skip this experience entirely (or cross only one-way), by choosing a fly-cruise or land-based camping expedition. These will fly you over the Drake to and/or from the ship or camp in Antarctica.
Getting to your embarkation or itinerary starting point
Depending on your exact itinerary you may need to add 1-2 hotel nights in South America. An overnight in Buenos Aires or Santiago is typically needed along the way. A hotel night in your ship’s embarkation city may also be a required addition. Please read your chosen itinerary carefully for pre/post trip inclusions.
Getting home after your Antarctic expedition
You can plan to depart after 12:00 PM on the last day of your itinerary to transfer to your next destination or to your first homeward-bound flight. If your itinerary ends in Buenos Aires or Santiago, you may plan your international flight to depart after 9:00 PM.
Are we really experts?
Our passionate Antarctica travel planners have twenty years’ experience working directly with the expedition ships exploring Antarctica, and have first-hand experience traveling to the continent, and additionally within South America. We are focused on finding the perfect Antarctic itinerary for you, according to your needs and desires for an Antarctic expedition.
Key Cities related to your Antarctica trip
These are the cities and towns you may visit on your way to your Antarctic expedition.
Buenos Aires, Argentina’s vibrant capital, is a fusion of European elegance and Latin passion, offering tango, art, cuisine, and rich history.
World’s southernmost city, the primary gateway to Antarctica, surrounded by dramatic fjords, glaciers, and rugged Tierra del Fuego wilderness.
The wildlife paradise of Patagonia is also the starting or ending point for some Antarctic expeditions.
The starting or ending point for some Antarctic expeditions, this capital city stands out for its harmonious coast, architecture, historic sites, and cultural wealth.
Chile’s capital blends historic charm with modern vibrancy. Diverse culture, cuisine, and scenic Andean mountain views in its urban landscape.
Southernmost city in Chile and starting point for most Antarctic flight expeditions, and gateway to Patagonia.
A common base for excursions to the world-renowned Torres del Paine National Park, one of the most popular national parks in Chile, and starting and/or ending point for some Antarctic fly-cruise expeditions.
Located in front of the Beagle Channel and on Navarino Island, it is characterized by virgin forests in the middle of a cold landscape.
Included on some extended Antarctic itineraries. The island´s tiny capital is stretched along the sheltered harbour, and the colourful buildings of Stanley bid a warm and friendly welcome to all visitors.
Included on some extended Antarctic itineraries, Grytviken is the largest settlement in South Georgia, home to few short-term researchers and scientists. The island’s incredible wildlife has earned it the nickname of the “Galapagos of the Southern Ocean“.
Set in and around what was once a volcanic crater, Dunedin is ringed with bush-clad hills that overlook a pretty harbour and the expanse of the Pacific Ocean. The city is a starting and/or ending point for Ross Sea / East Antarctica itineraries.
Founded in the 1850’s, it is New Zealand’s southernmost city and the capital of Southland. Victorian, Edwardian and Art Deco heritage buildings give the city a charming old-world character. The city is a starting and/or ending point for Ross Sea / East Antarctica itineraries.
With its towering mountains and lakeside location, Queenstown is a hub of adventure, bursting with adrenaline and fun. Queenstown sits on the shore of Lake Wakatipu among dramatic alpine ranges. The city is a starting and/or ending point for Ross Sea / East Antarctica itineraries.
The Tasmanian capital is a dynamic city that surpasses expectations at every turn. Australia’s southernmost capital is brimming with history and bursting with creativity. The city is a starting and/or ending point for Ross Sea / East Antarctica itineraries.
Highlighted Locations Visited on Antarctic Expeditions
Learn more about the stunning destinations you may visit on your an Antarctic Expedition.
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King George Island
South Shetland Island gateway to Antarctic Fly-cruise expeditions, rich in wildlife and scientific research. -
Deception Island
Volcanic caldera, history-laden shores, and breathtaking Antarctic landscapes beckon exploration. -
South Georgia
A verdant wildlife mecca filled with vast King Penguin colonies, breeding Elephant Seals, Wandering Albatross at nest and a rich history including Shackleton’s historic expedition – all encompassed by stunning polar scenery. -
Falkland Islands
Windswept landscapes, diverse fauna, and British heritage; a unique blend of natural beauty, history and cultural charm in isolation. -
Weddell Sea
Majestic icy wilderness, home to massive tabular icebergs, historic sites, to seals, whales, and Emperor penguins.
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Snow Hill Island
Remote outpost in the Weddelll Sea showcasing Emperor penguin colonies amid icy panoramas. -
Antarctic Circle
An exclusive journey into the heart of Antarctica that will cross below the 66°33′ South (approximately) to explore within the Antarctic Circle. -
Paradise Bay
Serene beauty, towering glaciers, and a haven for seals and whales. -
South Shetland Islands
Remote archipelago with wildlife, scientific research, and stunning Antarctic vistas. -
Neko Harbour
A historic site amidst dramatic landscapes and glaciers, epitomizing the untouched beauty Antarctica. -
Ross Sea
World’s largest ice shelf, mysterious dry valleys, and the striking Blood Falls. Diverse wildlife, including Emperor penguins, and the largest Antarctic scientific research site.
Antarctica Weather
Antarctica is known as the “coldest, highest, driest, windiest place on earth”. However, please keep in mind that most itineraries will not be venturing into the interior of the continent and you will be visiting during the Southern Hemisphere summer (Late October through early April). That said, weather in Antarctica can vary dramatically from day to day, even from moment to moment. With summer temperatures ranging from approximately 20-40° F, you may experience snow, rain, high winds, and bright warm sun all in the same day. It is best to approach an Antarctica expedition with a sense of adventure, as the climate is unpredictable. Weather may be a bit cooler early in the season (November) and late in the season (March), but there will not be a dramatic difference in temperatures throughout the Antarctic summer tourism season. If you are used to winter in places like the northern United States, Canada, Scandinavia, and Russia, you will be more than prepared for summer temperatures at the Antarctic Peninsula.
Antarctica Season Timing
You may also wish to schedule your trip according to what wildlife activities you are likely to observe at different points during the season:
Late October until Mid-December: The early part of the season showcases a number of highlights. Landing sites are at their most pristine, with the highest level of snow and sea ice, that will continue to break up as the season goes on. Ice-choked areas such as the Weddell Sea, below the Antarctic Circle and Ross Sea are difficult to reach during this time, without the assistance of flights, helicopters and Ice-breakers. Adélie, Chinstrap, Rockhopper, Macaroni and Gentoo adult penguins will be in rookery, busy with their nesting and mating rituals. During this period, eggs are laid, incubated and actively protected.
- Emperor Penguins are typically visited early season at Snow Hill Island in the Weddell Sea (visited either via a flight/camping trip or by ice-strengthened and Ice-breaker expedition ships on special itineraries, with helicopters). *Emperor Penguins can also be seen via other specialized Ice-breaker itineraries and/or on Ross Sea expeditions, which depart later in the season.
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Falkland Islands & South Georgia
Spring flowers begin blooming in the Falkland Islands (Islas Malvinas). South Georgia’s wildlife will be lush, regardless of when you go, with hundreds of thousands of King Penguins at all stages of growth in rookery, including “Oakum Boys” — fluffy brown King penguin chicks from the previous season. King penguin parents can be seen “carrying” newly hatched eggs on their feet so that the parent can shuffle around the colony while the other adult goes out to sea to feed. Macaroni penguins also arrive in rookery during this time. In South Georgia, the Wandering Albatross with its massive 3.5 meter wingspan can be seen circling overhead and recently born, nursing or newly weaned Elephant and Fur seal pups are visible at different stages as the males are actively battling and courting nearby.
Mid-December and January: The increased number of daylight hours brings exceptional opportunities for photographers and non-photographers alike, and the expeditions make the most of the summer weather and continuous hours of daylight. Research activity in the Peninsula at the scientific bases is at its peak. Penguin chicks begin hatching in the Antarctic Peninsula. Some 30 days after hatching, penguin chicks can be found in “crèches”, resembling a nursery of sorts, which leaves both adults free to replenish their food supply. An exciting time of this part of the season is when the parent returns with food and the hungry chicks are persistent in being fed, running after the parent (or any adult penguin with food) in a “feeding chase.” Whale sightings of baleen and toothed whales escalate in the Peninsula area. Sea ice is also beginning to further break up which allows for the possibility to begin to access to rarely visited sites in the Weddell Sea, Ross Sea and within the Antarctic Circle.
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Falkland Islands & South Georgia
The Falkland Islands and South Georgia’s wildlife will be lush, regardless of when you go. South Georgia offers hundreds of thousands of King Penguins at all stages of growth in rookery. “Oakum Boys” — fluffy brown King penguin chicks from the previous season — can also be seen in the rookeries. Whales sightings begin, Macaroni penguin chicks are hatching and Weddell seal pups arrive. The massive Wandering Albatross with its 3.5 meter wingspan lays her 1-2 eggs and the parents take turns incubating on the nest. Elephant & Fur seals litter the beaches in South Georgia as the mating season continues while the curious pups continuing to grow.
February and March: Sightings of whales and other sea mammals are at their peak in the Peninsula and an increasing number of Fur and Weddell seals can be found along the Peninsula and offshore islands. Penguin colonies are very active with the late hatched chicks in crèches and others completing their molt – losing their fuzzy down and developing their adult plumage. During this timeframe, the parents will abandon their chicks, and return out to sea to feed and fatten up for their own molting stage. Some penguin colonies are nearly vacated by the end of February to early March, with the end of the season having lots of penguin activity out in the water and on the ice. Blooming snow algae is prevalent and receding pack ice has reached its peak for the season, allowing for easier exploration within the Weddell Sea, Ross Sea and Antarctic Circle.
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Falkland Islands & South Georgia
The Falkland Islands and South Georgia’s wildlife will be lush, regardless of when you go. South Georgia offers hundreds of thousands of King Penguins at all stages of growth in rookery, including “Oakum Boys” — fluffy brown King penguin chicks. Whales continue to be spotted, Macaroni chicks are reaching adulthood and the massive Wandering Albatross with its 3.5 meter wingspan continues to care for their 1-2 incubating eggs on the nest, and then their chick(s) which will hatch in early March. Elephant and Fur seal mating season comes to end, but large numbers of curious and playful juveniles litter the beaches.
Choosing an Antarctica Expedition
Which Antarctica Expedition is right for you?
For most people who travel to Antarctica, it is the trip of a lifetime, so the prospect of choosing the right ship or itinerary can be daunting. Of course, all of the Antarctic adventures we offer provide a great experience, but every passenger is different regarding what one wants to experience during a trip to the Seventh Continent. Here are some things to consider as you look at the different itinerary options:
Accommodations
Every Antarctic Expedition Southern Explorations includes offers top-notch guides and excursions. However, in terms of accommodations, quantity or length of excursions, amenities and extra inclusions offered, your options can vary greatly. Some offer an experience analogous to that of a floating 5-star hotel, with features like spacious balcony cabins, fine linens, luxury bathroom products, spa services, butler service, fine dining, a full gym, and a piano bar. Others are more like a 3-star or 4-star hotel or campsite with accommodations that are comfortable, but more simple – yet will still offer tasty food, welcoming common spaces, and excellent guides. Our Antarctic Expeditions are divided into the categories described:
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All-Inclusive Luxury Ships (5-star) – Luxury vessels with all-inclusive additions such as international &/or domestic flights, hotels, transfers, open bar, helicopters, gratuities, etc.
- Silver Endeavour
- Silver Cloud
- Silver Wind
- Le Boreal/L’Austral/Le Lyrial/Le Soleal
- Le Commandant Charcot
- National Geographic Resolution
- National Geographic Endurance
- National Geographic Explorer
- National Geographic Orion
- Ultramarine
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Deluxe Ships (5-star) – Luxury vessels with services starting in Ushuaia or Punta Arenas and varying onboard service inclusions
- Magellan Explorer
- Greg Mortimer
- Sylvia Earle
- Seaventure
- Sea Spirit
- World Explorer
- Ocean Explorer
- Douglas Mawson
- Heritage Adventurer
- Adventure Class (3-star to 4-star) – Simpler accommodations and onboard amenities and little to zero pre/post services.
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Land-Based Camping Expeditions
- Emperor Penguin Camp
- Emperor Penguin + Union Glacier Camp + South Pole Flight
- Union Glacier Camp
- South Pole Flights
- South Pole Overnight
- South Pole Overnight at Three Glaciers Retreat
- Climb Antarctica
- Ski Antarctica
Size of Expedition Ship
An Antarctic expedition cruise ship is relatively small, with the express intent to get you off the ship, for a personal experience exploring the environment and wildlife. The experience onboard is quite different from a typical cruise ship – which is more focused on your experience onboard, and charges you for excursions at the various locations visited. Additionally, cruise ships that travel to Antarctica over 500 passengers will not allow you to disembark in Antarctica – you will simply cruise by from a distance.
One thing to keep in mind when choosing a boat is that IAATO (International Association of Antarctica Tour Operators) regulates that only 100 passengers are allowed ashore at a time in Antarctica. However, on ships with a capacity between 100-200 passengers, this is not typically an issue as many activities are offered to keep the travelers busy “on or in the water” while others spend time ashore (kayaking, diving/snorkeling, zodiac cruising, stand-up paddle boards, and even helicopters), and there are always some passengers who choose not to go ashore at every location.
Larger 200-500 passenger ships tend to have more amenities and common areas onboard than smaller ships, while smaller ships can offer longer excursions, more excursions, less risk of missing an excursion due to weather changes and a more intimate experience, getting to know both your fellow passengers and your guides better.
Here are the passenger capacities of all the Antarctica ships we offer, listed from smallest to largest:
- Ocean Nova – 67
- Magellan Explorer – 76
- Ushuaia – 90
- National Geographic Orion – 102
- Ortelius – 108
- Plancius – 108
- Sea Spirit – 114
- Greg Mortimer – 120-132
- Sylvia Earle – 120-132
- Ocean Adventurer – 128
- Expedition – 134
- National Geographic Endurance – 138
- National Geographic Resolution – 138
- Seaventure – 139
- Heritage Adventurer – 140
- World Explorer – 140-172
- National Geographic Explorer – 148
- Douglas Mawson – 154
- Hondius – 170
- Ultramarine – 199
- Silver Endeavour – 200
- L’Austral/Le Boreal/Le Lyrial/Le Soleal – 200
- Le Commandant Charcot – 200
- Silver Cloud – 254
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Silver Wind – 274
Length of Expeditions
Antarctic expeditions range in length from 6 days to 30+ days.
A 6-day express fly-cruise expedition will sail across the Drake Passage to reach the South Shetland Islands, in Antarctica and then return to South America by flying from King George Island to Punta Arenas, Chile where an included hotel night awaits to protect against flight delays. The majority of the 6-day itinerary is getting to and from Antarctica, offering approximately 24-36 hours exploring the South Shetland Islands, before boarding the flight to Punta Arenas. This itinerary does not reach the Antarctica peninsula and is only recommended for those who merely want to “set foot in Antarctica”, regardless of how briefly they do so, and don’t mind that they won’t get to the mainland peninsula. No pre-trip services are included.
Itineraries that focus on the Antarctic Peninsula are typically between 8 and 15 days long, with the shortest incorporating round-trip Drake Passage flights, and the longest including deeper exploration such as below the Antarctic Circle at 66 degrees South. Your itinerary may or may not include a pre and/or post trip hotel night within your chosen itinerary days. If your itinerary is crossing the Drake Passage, this can take 36-48 hours after departing from South America. Depending on the length and type of expedition you choose, your itinerary can have aproximately 3-9 full days of shore excursions in Antarctica.
The longer Antarctic expedition cruises (16 to 30+ days) will typically include the Falkland Islands and South Georgia Island, and/or explore more remote locations such as the Antarctic Circle or the Ross Sea. There are also a handful of voyages that focus solely on South Georgia or solely on the Falklands. Time reserved for exploration specifically in Antarctica for these trips can range from approximately 2-12 days.
Additionally, there are specialty trips that will focus on remote locations such as visiting the Emperor penguins, getting to the South Pole, or specific adventure activity trips.
Activities – From easy-paced to more adventurous
There is a popular misconception that passengers cannot even get off the ship on an Antarctica cruise. This is not true for an Antarctic Expedition cruise! All the Antarctic expedition cruises Southern Explorations offers include as many landings as possible. Generally, one landing of approximately 1 to 3 hours is made in the morning and then another landing of similar length in the afternoon. Sometimes, particularly on the smaller ships, a third landing or Zodiac excursion at a nearby location, can also be included! Of course, excursions are always subject to weather and ice conditions, but even if the expedition team deems a particular location unsafe to visit one site, they will make sure to find an equally interesting alternate landing, excursion or cruising site nearby.
All expedition cruises include Zodiac excursions to observe marine mammals and stunning landscapes, iceberg formations and massive glaciers, as well as to access your shore excursions. Shore excursions include activities such as walking the landscape among the penguins and other wildlife, hiking, visiting particularly scenic locations, research stations and historical sites. In addition to these activities, many expeditions offer more active options for Antarctic exploration such as sea kayaking, camping, snorkeling, polar diving, stand-up paddle boarding, snowshoeing, mountaineering, cross-country skiing, helicopters and more! These added activities often incur a supplementary fee to participate. When choosing an Antarctica expedition, it is important to note if any of these activities are important to you to participate in during your trip to the White Continent. This will help narrow down the choices, as they are not offered on every itinerary.
Fly Cruises Expeditions
On a traditional Antarctic expedition cruise you board the ship in South America and cross the Drake Passage to Antarctica aboard your ship. For those not interested in this rite of passage of crossing the Drake round trip by ship (see FAQs for more details about the Drake) or who want to shorten the time it takes to visit the Seventh Continent, a fly-cruise expedition is an excellent option. Fly-cruise expeditions involve flying one way or roundtrip between Punta Arenas, Chile to King George Island in Antarctica. Once the plane lands on King George Island, you board your ship and explore onboard during your time in Antarctica, before returning to King George to catch the flight back to Punta Arenas. On a one-way fly-cruise expedition you would either cruise back to South America, or you would start by cruising to Antarctica and fly back to Punta Arenas at the end of your exploration. A one-way fly-cruise expedition can be a nice option for those who want to experience both modes of reaching Antarctica. Since flying one way will start or end in Ushuaia, Argentina and Punta Arenas or Puerto Natales, Chile, it can also be a great way to connect between the Argentine and Chilean sides of Patagonia pre-cruise and post-cruise.
Emperor Penguin Voyages
Emperor penguins are the largest of all penguins and the most difficult to visit. Unlike most penguin specie colonies, Emperor penguin colonies are not found close to shore. These birds breed far inland on the pack ice of Antarctica, so spotting them can be challenging for humans. On most Antarctic expedition cruises, you are very unlikely to see any Emperors unless you happen to spot a few in the water or resting on icebergs. If you want to specifically see Emperor penguins, you should choose a specific Emperor penguin departure, which will occur in November or early December. These trips typically involve traveling to the White Continent on a ship equipped with helicopters, which are used to travel inland where the Emperors are in rookery or spotting them on their long treks to and from the shoreline. Additional options are available to fly to the peninsula and to camp nearby the Snow Hill Island rookery, please enquire.
Antarctica Circle vs South Pole Expeditions
There are many Antarctic Circle crossing expedition cruises available. Departures during early season would need to be on an official ice breaker, but there are also many between late December through March on ice-strengthened ships. South Pole expeditions are deep inland, land base expeditions including flights to and within Antarctica – please inquire.
Locations Visited – In Depth
Most of the Antarctica expeditions we offer focus on the Antarctic Peninsula, which is located just below the southern tip of South America. Although there are typical peninsula locations visited during these expeditions, many of the landing sites will be determined on site, pending weather and ice conditions. Longer itineraries (~16 – 24 days) typically include the Falklands Islands and/or South Georgia Island, in addition to the Antarctic peninsula and surrounding islands. Additional longer itineraries (~20-30+ days) will explore the Ross Sea or cross the Atlantic Ocean to various destinations – please enquire.
Here are more details about the primary locations you can visit on an Antarctic cruise:
Antarctic Peninsula & South Shetland Islands
The most easily accessible part of Antarctica, the Antarctic Peninsula and South Shetland Islands, is located about 610 miles (980 km) south of Cape Horn, the most southerly point of South America. The waters between South America and the Antarctic Peninsula are known as the Drake Passage. The Peninsula is dotted with research stations governed by various nations, but no one nation has dominion over any part of Antarctica, as per the Antarctic Treaty System.
The coasts of the Peninsula have the mildest climate in Antarctica with moss and lichen-covered rocks free from snow and ice during the summer months. Antarctic krill are found in the waters surrounding the Peninsula, making the seas rich feeding grounds for penguins and marine mammals. The penguin species found in abundance at the Peninsula include Gentoo, Adélie, Chinstrap, Northern and Southern rockhopper penguins. There are also colonies of Emperor penguins located in more remote areas, such as the Ross Sea and the famed Snow Hill Island rookery in the Weddell Sea region. To reach the Emperor rookeries, you must venture further inland, as they do not have colonies on the coastline like the other penguins. Marine mammals seen at the Peninsula are Crabeater seals, Weddell seals, Leopard seals, as well as various whale species such as Humpbacks, Minkes, and Orcas. In the skies watch for various birds such as skuas, petrels, shags, and the beautiful Antarctic tern.
The stunning landscape of the Antarctic Peninsula is dominated by soaring peaks, considered a continuation of the Andes, as well as massive glaciers spilling into the iceberg-dotted sea. The highest peak is Mount Jackson at 10,446 ft or 3,184 m. Most expedition vessels hug the western side of the Antarctic Peninsula passing through areas such as the Bransfield Strait, Gerlache Strait, Neumeyer Channel, and the famous Lemaire Channel, known as “Kodak Alley” for its spectacular scenery. A few cruises will also venture to the lesser-visited eastern side of the Peninsula, known as the Weddell Sea, but extensive pack ice on this side can make it difficult for ships to navigate its waters.
South Georgia
A territory of the United Kingdom, the sub-Antarctic island of South Georgia is a unique place, rich with wildlife and history. It is positioned in the southern Atlantic near the Antarctic Convergence where the cold Antarctic waters and the warmer waters to the north collide, creating a bounty of krill for the island’s mammals to feed on. South Georgia boasts one of the largest breeding populations of King penguins in the world, with over 100,000 breeding pairs. At about 3 feet tall, Kings are the second largest penguin species in the world (after the Emperor), and it is truly a spectacular site to see the colony of thousands with the jagged peaks and glaciers of South Georgia as a backdrop. South Georgia is also home to colonies of Macaroni, Gentoo and Chinstrap penguins. The massive Wandering Albatross also is at nest on this island. Other bird species include petrels, prions, shags, skuas, gulls and terns. Marine mammals are also abundant residents at South Georgia, with beaches dominated by both the small but quick Antarctic Fur seal and the enormous Elephant seal. A small colony of Weddell seals also breed here, and Leopard seals can be seen all year around. Whales surround the island, with Humpback, Fin and Southern Right whales being the most frequent visitors. It is also possible to spot Orca, Sperm and Blue whales.
In addition to its striking landscape of snow-capped peaks (the highest is Mount Paget at 9,629 ft or 2,935 m) and its abundant wildlife, South Georgia has a rich explorer and whaling history. Ernest Shackleton’s epic story of survival holds South Georgia as pinnacle, after sailing from Elephant Island in a small lifeboat and then mountaineering across the island to save he entirely of his stranded crew. Shackleton is buried on the island and most South Georgia itineraries make a pilgrimage to his grave. Aside from explorer history, there is also ample whaling history on the island, which was an active whaling hub from the early 1900s all the way through the 1960s. Visitors can view this history firsthand at Grytviken, a whaling station that has been extensively cleaned to remove hazardous materials. Today it contains a lot of the original structures and equipment, including the famous restored Norwegian Lutheran Church. There is also a museum, a small shop, and a very small non-permanent resident population.
Falklands
Located about 300 miles east of Argentina in the southern Atlantic, the Falklands are an archipelago comprised of more than 770 islands, with the two primary islands being East Falkland and West Falkland. The Falklands are perhaps most famous for the war fought over the islands’ sovereignty in the early 1980s. The British have had control of the islands since 1833, but in 1982 the Argentine army invaded during the Falklands War, which lasted for two months and ended with Great Britain’s victory. Today, Argentina still claims to be the rightful owner of the Falklands and calls the islands Las Malvinas.
About 3000 people, all British citizens, inhabit the Falklands. In fact, a stroll down the street in the archipelago’s capital, Stanley, feels like a stroll through a quaint English village, except that all the vehicles you see are land rovers, ideal for the islands’ rugged terrain and limited roads. Most of the islands’ residents are farmers and much of the land is used as pasture for grazing sheep. There are no native trees in the Falklands, and the wind-scoured craggy landscape is dominated by tussock grass.
Expedition cruises that visit the Falklands as part of a combination with South Georgia and/or Antarctica typically spend one-two days in the islands, and typically include a visit to Stanley. The islands are rich with birdlife with over 200 species present, including caracaras, geese, herons, egrets, and petrels. There are large colonies of Black-browed albatross, with 80% of the world’s population breeding in the Falklands. Penguin species present in the islands are Southern Rockhopper, Magellanic, King, Gentoo, and Macaroni. About two thirds of the Southern Rockhopper penguins in the world breed here, so a visit to the archipelago usually includes encounters with these nimble and comical penguins. The waters around the islands are also frequented by marine mammals, such as Elephant and South American Fur seals, and various cetaceans.
Antarctica FAQs
Planning My Trip
Top questions when planning a trip to Antarctica.
As a rule, the further in advance you can plan, the more itinerary and ship options and booking promotions you will have available to you. Given the short Austral summer season for Antarctica, we recommend planning a trip 18-6 months in advance. However if you have a very flexible schedule, flexibility regarding ship, cabin or itinerary, and last-minute flight or hotel issues would not be a problem for you, you can wait to book within six to one month prior to departure timeframe, in hopes for available promotions on remaining departures.
This is a personal decision, but standard expeditions that reach the Antarctic Peninsula require you to be away from home approximately 11-15 days (8-12 day itinerary). The shortest Antarctica voyage we offer would require you to be away from home approximately a minimum of 9-10 days (6 day itinerary), but this itinerary does not reach the Antarctica peninsula. Trips that include South Georgia will require an average of 18-24 days away from home (16-22 day itinerary) and our longest itineraries can be up to 36 days away from home. Please inquire for details about specific voyages.
Travel to Antarctica occurs during the Austral Summer with cruise expeditions departing from late October through early April. You may wish to schedule your trip according to what wildlife activities you’d like to observe, or any specific adventure activities you would like to do, such as snowshoeing, skiing, mountaineering, whale watching, and more, which are only offered on certain departures.
· Late October and Mid-December: The early part of the season showcases a number of highlights. Antarctica is at its most pristine with snow and lots of sea ice. Adélie, Chinstrap and Gentoo adult penguins and Antarctic-breeding seabirds are coming ashore to their breeding sites where they commence courtship rituals and nest building. Shortly thereafter eggs are laid and incubated. Emperor penguins can be seen on the frozen Weddell Sea (visited via helicopter on special Emperor penguin voyages). Whales will begin to arrive mid-December.
South Georgia and Falkland Islands (Islas Malvinas): Spring flowers begin blooming in the Falkland Islands (Islas Malvinas). King penguins are found in the 100’s of thousands and female King penguins lay their eggs in November and the parents can be seen “carrying” eggs on their feet so that the parent can shuffle around the colony while the other adult goes out to sea to feed. “Oakum Boys” — King penguin chicks from the previous season — can also be seen in the rookeries. Elephant and Fur seals actively competing and courting mates in South Georgia.
· Mid-December and February: The increased number of daylight hours brings exceptional opportunities for photographers and non-photographers alike, and the expeditions make the most of the summer weather and continuous hours of daylight. Research activity in the Peninsula at the scientific bases is at its peak. Penguin chicks begin hatching. Some 30 days after hatching, penguin chicks can be found in “crèches,” resembling a nursery of sorts, which leaves both adults free to replenish their food supply. An exciting time of this part of the season is when the parent returns with food and the hungry chicks are persistent in being fed, running after the parent (or any adult penguin with food) in a “feeding chase.” In February, penguin colonies are very active with the adults in various stages of their molt and chicks at various ages – losing their fuzzy down and developing their adult plumage. Younger late-hatchlings can also still be found during this time, but rookeries start to thin out, as adult penguins will abandon their chicks, and return out to sea to feed and fatten up for their own molting stage. Most colonies (Adélie, Chinstrap and Gentoo) are nearly vacated by the very end of February to early March. Whale sightings of baleen and toothed whales escalate in the peninsula area. Sea ice is also beginning to break up, which allows for the possibility to begin to access to rarely visited sites in the Weddell Sea, within the Antarctic Circle and the Ross Sea.
South Georgia and Falkland Islands (Islas Malvinas): Penguin chicks hatch, and seal pups can be seen on the beaches in South Georgia. The massive Wandering Albatross can be found on the nest. King penguins are still in rookery, at all stages of development, in the hundreds of thousands.
· March and early April: Sightings of whales are at their peak in the Peninsula and an increasing number of Fur, Weddell, Elephant and Leopard seals can be found along the Peninsula and offshore islands, as the penguin activity is largely out in the water and on the icebergs during this timeframe. Blooming snow algae is prevalent and receding pack ice has reached its peak for the season, allowing for easier exploration within the Weddell Sea, Ross Sea and Antarctic Circle. Dusk and sunsets are striking and can last an exceedingly long time, creating a magical atmosphere.
South Georgia and Falkland Islands (Islas Malvinas): Young Fur seals are quite playful in South Georgia. The massive Wandering Albatross can be found on the nest. King penguins are still in rookery, at all stages of development, in the hundreds of thousands.
It is a popular misconception that the best way to obtain a deal on an Antarctica cruise is to wait until the last possible moment to book. While if your preferences are flexible, this can work out for you, but it can also incur difficulties with affordable flight and hotel availability, and cabin categories and itineraries are more limited. Last-minute rates can happen occasionally, but they are never guaranteed – and travelers need to be ready to see the offer and book it quickly, rather than “think about it and shop around”, as the rates do not last, nor does the cabin availability.
Promotional offers, or simple low rates regardless of promotion, are best found by booking early – up to 18 months in advance, when the largest selection of options is available to you. This is especially important if you are looking to book the “lowest rate” off peak dates, or around the December holidays, as these tend to sell out further in advance. Fly-cruise expeditions during which you fly over the Drake Passage rather than crossing onboard the vessel, also tend to sell out early as these itineraries are lesser in number, booking early is also excellent for these trips.
Prices are higher for travel for embarkations between December 15 through February, as this is high season. Prices are lower early season for embarkations late October to December 15, and then again late season (late February through March).
We are here to help you narrow it down, according to your specific needs and desires in a trip. Antarctica is the trip of a lifetime, offering abundant wildlife and unique landscapes. Traveling to the end of the world is an unparalleled experience. It’s hard to go wrong with any option, but for those with specific interests, we recommend reviewing our guide to Antarctica Expeditions above or contacting a travel planner.
Antarctic itineraries are set and cannot be changed, but please note whereas the general locations visited are specific (for example, South Shetland Islands, Antarctic Peninsula, South Georgia, Falkland Islands), the specific landing sites are dependent on ice and weather conditions and cannot be guaranteed. Locations chosen onsite will be made to take advantage of opportunities to see wildlife, scenic, research and historical sites. Flexibility is paramount for expedition travel. That said, some ships offer extra activities you can add beyond shore and zodiac excursions to more personalize your experience. We can certainly add pre/post embarkation services (hotels, tours, transfers, flights, extensions, etc.) in Argentina and Chile, and beyond. Southern Explorations is happy to assist with any additional services you require.
A standard cruise is about the ship, with less emphasis on where you are going and fees for excursions on shore. Expedition cruise ships are about the remote locations visited, with most sites only accessible by ship, and daily excursions are included onsite. Although your ship may be very nice, the itinerary is not focused about your time onboard, but rather your time off the ship.
The Antarctica expedition cruise ships we offer range in size from a capacity of 67 to 274 passengers. Land based trips are smaller groups. Ships above 500 passengers on board are not allowed to make landings in Antarctica, so instead offer a “cruise by” experience. We do not offer these cruise based trips.
Antarctica is the highest, driest, windiest, coldest place on earth, but keep in mind that all tourism trips occur during Austral summer. The average summer temperature in the Antarctic Peninsula area is around 20 to 40°F (-6 to 4°C), although sometimes it may feel warmer due to sunshine, or substantially colder due to the wind chill factor and water splashing up while riding in Zodiacs. You can expect to encounter varied conditions including rain, snow, high winds, bright sun, and fog.
Most Antarctica expeditions begin/end in either Ushuaia, Argentina or Punta Arenas, Chile. Occasionally itineraries begin directly from other South American cities such as Santiago, Buenos Aires, Puerto Natales, Montevideo, Puerto Madryn, Puerto Williams, or with regard to Ross Sea itineraries, out of New Zealand port towns. All “fly-cruise expedition” programs include a pre and post trip hotel night in Punta Arenas or Puerto Natales and flights to/from the ship in Antarctica. Depending on ship chosen, your itinerary may also include 1-2 Santiago hotel nights, as well. Please check your itinerary for any inclusions, or needed additions, such as pre-trip or post-trip hotel nights and domestic flights to your embarkation cities. Southern Explorations can book any needed pre- or post-trip hotels, domestic flights, tours and transfers, and include them within your trip costs.
You do not need to be extremely physically fit to travel to Antarctica, but if you wish to go to shore, you should be comfortable walking short distances over uneven terrain, including snow, ice, and rock. Many ships also have a steep metal gangway that you must descend and ascend to embark/disembark the small Zodiac boats that ferry passengers to shore. Your guides will always be there to assist you in and out of the Zodiacs, as well.
The Drake Passage is the body of water between Cape Horn (the southernmost tip of South America) and the Antarctic Peninsula. Crossing the Drake to reach Antarctica by ship will take approximately 36-48 hours. This Drake Passage has some of the roughest recorded sea conditions in the world (sometime called the “Drake Shake”), but it can also be pristinely calm (known as the “Drake Lake”). Conditions in this waterway will vary at any time during the season depending on weather, and it is impossible to predict how rough it will be in advance. Some passengers experience seasickness, and others do not. It is advisable to come prepared by packing motion sickness remedies. All ships also have doctors onboard, and these medical professionals are extremely adept at assisting passengers with any seasickness concerns. Once in Antarctica, sheltered waters are normally encountered with little problem for rough seas. NOTE: For those wishing to forego the Drake Passage experience, you may choose a “fly/cruise expedition” program where you will skip the Drake, flying by small aircraft to the South Shetland Islands, just off the Antarctic Peninsula and then join up with your expedition cruise ship to begin your Antarctic exploration from here.
Accommodations and amenities on board Antarctica expeditions vary from simple 3-star to luxury 5-star – it really depends on your chosen itinerary or ship. Please inquire for details.
Yes, in addition to our certified guides in South America, each expedition has highly qualified guides and lecturers.
Most Antarctica cruises do not include any airfare, though some include roundtrip international flights, flights within South America, and/or flights to/from the ship in Antarctica on the “fly cruise expeditions”. Southern Explorations is happy to arrange any flights you require to or within Argentina or Chile. Please inquire about airfare inclusions for specific itineraries.
Yes! Shore and Zodiac excursions are always included on all of our Antarctic expeditions. Potential “extra” excursions are sometimes not included, such as camping, kayaking, stand-up paddleboarding, snorkeling, polar diving, etc.
Yes! All meals onboard our Antarctica expeditions are included. Some ships also offer limited included drinks to a full open bar inclusion.
Pre or post embarkation hotels, transfers and flights, parka or boots may not be included – check your itinerary option or booking confirmation’s “not included” section. On board extra expenses vary by ship but in general, extra fees to the trip cost could be gratuities, onboard drinks, Wifi, laundry services, and potential added adventure activities such as extended, small group hiking/snowshoeing, one-time paddling excursions, etc. (if not pre-booked and available to book onboard). Every itinerary we send has a detailed inclusions/exclusions section breaking this down.
All Antarctic expeditions require a deposit to confirm your booking. Each specific ship or itinerary has a different deposit policy, with the deposit amount typically ranging from $1000 per person to 35% of the total trip costs to confirm your trip. Final payment also vary typically between 90 days and 120 days prior to travel. Additionally, all Antarctic expeditions have different cancelation policies, specific to that ship or itinerary. Please inquire for details about specific cancelation penalties assigned to the different ships or itineraries, or refer to your offer or booking confirmation emails for further details.
Yes! Antarctica is a very remote location, but the safety record for all of the ships we work with is excellent. In terms of personal safety, the ships and points of embarkation are very safe. Any landing or excursion deemed unsafe onsite due to weather or ice conditions will not be attempted. That said, following the guidelines of your expedition leaders and knowing your own limitations is imperative. If you extend your trip and spend time in larger cities such as Santiago or Buenos Aires, then we recommend you exercise common sense precautions to protect yourself from petty theft.
Sometimes yes, but often they are “ice-strengthened” vessels of various classes.
Emperor penguins are the largest of all penguins and the most difficult to visit. Unlike most penguin species colonies, Emperor penguin colonies are not found close to shore. These birds breed far inland on the pack ice of Antarctica, so spotting them can be challenging for humans. On most Antarctic expedition cruises, you are very unlikely to see any Emperors unless there happen to be a few out fishing in the waters off the coast of the Antarctic Peninsula or resting on icebergs. If you want to see Emperor penguins, you will need to choose a specific Emperor penguin departure, which will occur in late November or early December. These trips typically involve traveling to the White Continent on a ship equipped with helicopters, which are used to travel inland where the Emperors are in rookery, or spotting them on their long treks to and from the shoreline. Additional options are available to fly to the peninsula and to camp nearby the Snow Hill Island rookery, please inquire.
Preparing for my Trip
Top questions as you get ready for your Antarctica trip.
Check your email for your payment confirmation and a link to access our online trip portal. Final payment due date is in your confirmation email, and we’ll send you a reminder later. Now is a good time to check into travel insurance – especially if you have pre-existing conditions!
Most Antarctica expeditions require that passengers purchase travel insurance covering at a minimum, emergency medical, evacuation and repatriation. The cost of medical evacuation transport from Antarctica is high, and as it is the responsibility of the traveler, this coverage is imperative – but not costly. Although trip cancellation insurance is not required, it is highly recommended. The cost of travel insurance varies from individual to individual and depends on many factors, such as cost of trip covered, age of traveler, where you live, etc. There are a plethora of insurance providers but we recommend contacting Travelex Insurance Services or Travel Guard or using SquareMouth to compare other travel insurance websites.
If your plans are set and flights are available to purchase, then go ahead and book them! Some people like to watch fare trends before purchasing. Airlines post flight schedules about 10-12 months in advance, so for travelers booking trips over a year in advance, you’ll have to wait. It is relatively easy to find flights to our Latin American destinations, so unless you are traveling over the holidays or very last minute, don’t stress about finding flights!
After booking you will receive a link to our online trip portal, which includes all of the need-to-know information specific to your itinerary. This includes packing lists, restaurant recommendations, tipping guides, FAQs, electrical plugs and voltage, vaccine recommendations and money matters. Your Travel planner will also be a great resource for any other information you may need.
All three meals are eaten on board the ship. After breakfast, you will head out for your morning excursion for 1 to 3 hours (depending on your chosen ship and itinerary), then get back on board to eat lunch while the ship navigates to the next landing site. Here you will once again disembark on land for 1-3 hours before dinner. Extra nearby excursions and after dinner excursions are also possible, depending on your chosen expedition itinerary or ship.
Yes! Whereas your chosen Antarctic itinerary will be locked in, we are happy to modify any pre or post expedition plans to meet your needs by adding hotels, tours and extensions to other locations.
You can find more information about packing in the online trip portal. We have packing lists, footwear details, and things to consider. Review your final trip details that we send a couple of weeks prior to departure for luggage limitations and restrictions specific for your trip.
No – not without a very special permit. The governing body of Antarctic tourism is called the International Association of Antarctica Tour Operators (IAATO) and Southern Explorations is a member of this organization. IAATO members have agreed that they will not allow the recreational use of UAVs (drones) in the unique, and often wildlife rich, coastal areas of Antarctica. Through the unique global partnership that is the Antarctic Treaty system, the entire continent is formally designated as a ‘natural reserve, devoted to peace and science’. Antarctica is regarded as the last great wilderness on our planet, still pristine with wildlife and landscapes that show little evidence of direct human activity. Visiting and operating in an environment like this comes with a responsibility to do so carefully and with minimal impact. UAVs are a relatively new phenomenon and IAATO Is therefore taking a cautionary approach, as it is possible they could have a negative impact on the environment. Also, as you can imagine, many drones flying over a penguin colony would not only be potentially detrimental to the birds (adult penguins are distracted by drones, which allows a Skua to swoop in and eat their eggs or swipe one of their chicks), but will also greatly diminish the experience of other passengers seeking to enjoy the beauty and solitude of the Seventh Continent. So, please, leave the drones at home!
Your Antarctic expedition will have similar guidelines to international flights, but if you choose an Antarctic fly-cruise expedition with a flight to Antarctica, it will have a more precisely controlled baggage limit, dependent on itinerary chosen. Your travel planner will provide more details based on your specific itinerary.
Yes! Please notify us in advance if you are celiac, gluten free, dairy-free, vegan, vegetarian or have other dietary needs. If you have picky eaters in your group, the more information you provide us the better we can accommodate them. In the online trip portal, you will see a place to indicate allergies and dietary needs.
Antarctica does not have required immunizations, at this time, but Covid19 regulations are still in place for a variety of ships. Check the online trip portal for the most up to date information regarding traveler health and immunization recommendations.
About two weeks before you depart, we will email your final trip details that will have all of the pertinent information you need for your trip. Generally, our trips do not require any physical vouchers or documents. Some trips may have informational documents which we will include in your final trip details.
On my Trip
Top questions related to your day-to-day activities while in Antarctica.
If you have included or added transfers or tours, you will meet your guide upon exiting customs or baggage claim, or waiting for you at your hotel. Additional information and instructions will be included in your final itinerary.
Two weeks before departure, you’ll receive final trip details that indicate the start time for the excursions. Each evening, your guide will remind you about the next morning’s pickup time and plan, and will provide you with special instructions if needed. When in doubt, ask your guide.
Yes! We do not offer ships that do not focus on getting you to shore (as much as possible). Typically, two shore landings will be attempted per day, pending weather and ice conditions. The smaller the ship you choose, the more excursions at the most locations you are likely to get.
You can expect Wi-Fi access at most hotels before boarding your Antarctica expedition. While in Antarctica, your access to Wi-Fi will be dependent on your chosen ship. Most ships offer Wi-Fi access at an additional cost, some offer if for free. This service is provided by satellite and generally slow and spotty.
Hotels and ships have laundry services that you may elect to request (for a fee) during your trip.
All Southern Explorations’ travelers will receive a list of emergency contact numbers before departure, including a 24-hour emergency phone number. If your international flight is delayed please call the emergency line so we can make the necessary arrangements and keep your trip running smoothly. After you begin your trip and are in contact with your local guide, please refer to them first with any issue you may have then contact the head office if you need additional assistance.
Some of our trips take travelers into primitive wilderness areas. To ensure the safety of our travelers, our guides are linked with outside emergency medical services 24 hours a day in all locations to provide assistance when necessary. Although our guides are trained in wilderness first-aid and carry extensive first aid equipment for minor ailments, injuries, and accidents, they cannot handle serious medical conditions, and travelers are advised to obtain health or travel insurance that covers medical evacuation. Any traveler with a medical condition should discuss that with us prior to travel.
In the event of a more serious medical emergency, travelers would be evacuated from a wilderness area by whatever means available then driven or flown to a medical center.
Policies
Review our terms & conditions including our cancellation policy.
