Antarctica Holidays
Antarctica is astonishing in beauty and scale. An unpopulated wilderness approximately one-and-a-half times the size of Europe, the seventh continent is the coldest, driest and windiest place on our planet.
About Antarctica
Extreme, uninhabitable and largely unknown, Antarctica was the stage for great acts of heroism, where Shackleton, Scott and Amundsen all undertook journeys of extreme bravery in the pursuit of scientific discovery.
In modern times, ease of access and safer passage have enabled mere mortals to become explorers, discovering a destination many dream of glimpsing at least once in their life.
The rise in popularity has brought about a revolution in comfort, shifting away from rugged scientific research vessels and converted navy ice-breakers, many of the ships now slicing through frozen waters are the equivalent of floating five-star hotels. Ensuite cabins, hot-tubs and gyms all make the experience much more agreeable, while improved technology and design have made sailings a great deal smoother.
The range of activities offered onboard has also expanded, providing new ways to experience this icy wilderness. Camp overnight in the snow, kayak along the coastline, snorkel around the submerged bummocks of icebergs, or take a polar plunge.
How to get the best out of Antarctica:
1/. Choose a small ship:
Choose a ship with 200 passengers or less in order to spend more time on land. Most landing sites in Antarctica, South Georgia and the Falklands limit numbers to less than 100. Large ships get round this by splitting excursions between landings and Zodiac cruises – but this does mean less time on land.
2/. Keep an eye on daily changes to the sailing plan. There are some spectacular narrow channels – such as the Antarctic Sound – which the captain may need to sail through at night due to the weather conditions. It’s definitely worth getting up in the early hours to witness the spectacle.
3/. Be prepared for seasickness. The Drake Passage and waters around South Georgia can be rough. Various patches and tablets work as a prevention. Choose a cabin on a lower deck, which tend to be more stable and if you do feel queasy the best thing to do is get fresh air.
It is also possible to choose a cruise that has you fly to, and from, Antarctica from the South American mainland.
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- Mighty icebergs and calving glaciers
- Squawking Penguin colonies
- Breaching Whales
- Kayak along jagged coastlines
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Our Favourite Expedition Ships
Built in 2022 with a revolutionary X bow design providing improved stability, Sylvia Earle is one of the smallest, most modern and well-equipped vessels used to explore Antarctica.
Learn More Magellan Explorer is a new and modern expedition vessel custom-built for Antarctic air-cruises – which combine a direct flight from South America to Antarctica with an expedition cruise.
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Sailing from New Zealand, the Heritage Adventurer takes you to the rarely visited Ross Sea region of Antarctica, one of the last great unspoiled parts of the world’s oceans.
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With its revolutionary X bow design maximising stability and environmental responsibility, the Greg Mortimer offers the perfect base camp for adventures at the outer limits of human exploration.
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Quark Expeditions’ two twin-engine Airbus H145 helicopters are able to take guests further over the polar landscape than any other helicopter in its category, and deliver the largest portfolio of off-ship adventure options in the industry.
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MS Sea Venture is one of the most personal ships cruising polar waters with only 112 passengers onboard. It also boasts the highest ice class classification available.
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Sea Spirit is among the smallest ships plying the southern seas, accommodating only 114 passengers. This ship offers larger suites in a more traditional style, some with balconies, akin to a luxury hotel.
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New for 2025, the Douglas Mawson is at the top of the league in terms of state-of the art polar technology. It will also become one of very few ships that depart from New Zealand to explore the rarely visited Ross Sea area of East Antarctica.
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Environmentally friendly X-bow ships Ocean Victory and Ocean Albatros are amongst the most affordable and ecologically guilt-free options to explore Antarctica
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One of the fastest ships cruising polar Seas, the World Explorer boasts a glass-domed observation lounge while all the suites have balconies
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The Plancius only accommodates 108 passengers making it one of the smallest and most intimate vessels serving Antarctica – it is ice-strengthened and has a spacious observation lounge. While somewhat dated, it offers superb value.
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Ortelius is amongst the best value for a ship of this size (108 passengers). The cabins are relatively basic, but the guiding, crew, and food are excellent, and there are many adventure options that are generally included in the price. The highest ice class allows for excellent manoeuvrability in icy waters.
Learn MoreBest Time To Visit Antarctica
The season runs through the Southern Hemisphere’s summer – from October until March – when milder temperatures and ice melt make the continent accessible. The shoulder season months tend to be less busy and are popular with photographers who come for the light; dusks and dawns in hues of pink, orange and gold are common as seasons shift from spring and into autumn.
Wildlife is consistently fascinating at any time of the year, but there are cycles and peaks:
February and March are considered the top month for whale sightings and is also provides the best chance to witness leopard seals predate on penguins when they head back into the ocean for winter.
Early-October voyages to sub-antarctic island South Georgia may have the opportunity to witness elephant seals ‘jousting’, and up until the end of November, fur seals are also less aggressive and more manageable (During the breeding season – November to January – males can become extremely aggressive and have been known to bite people. Most expeditions now advise their clients not to lie or crouch when taking photographs).
The water and ice are pristine in November.
December and January tend to be the busiest periods for tourists, with chicks from several penguin species hatching around this time. Large colonies of penguins are guaranteed, but numbers thin out in the following weeks as they moult and return to sea.
Specific voyages to cross the Antarctic Circle only sail later in the season, when less ice allows ships to reach 66°30′ S.
Best Time To Visit Antarctica
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Antarctica FAQs Need to Know
How do you get there?
When should I book?
Small ships and specialist departures tend to sell out quickly, along with triple-share cabins which are the least expensive way to travel. Ship schedules are released between 24 and 18 months in advance and there are often significant early booking incentives.
How much will it cost?
Given its remoteness and the logistics involved, there’s no cheap way to visit Antarctica.
Global fuel prices have a profound effect on the costs involved in visiting Antarctica, but prices do vary greatly depending on the type of vessel, the length of cruise, choice of cabin and the option to fly in and/or out.
The least expensive might be a six-day trip for under £4,000, while an 18-day itinerary incorporating South Georgia and the Falklands averages around £16,000 (excluding flights).
Antarctica is not a budget destination, and nor should it be. There is a price to pay for visiting a pristine, fragile environment in the safest way possible without causing risk to humans, wildlife or the environment. There are however ways to make savings:
Older expedition vessels without the frills can be a little rough around the edges, but these sturdy, seaworthy ships still have highly experienced expedition staff and crew and so offer good value.
Choose a triple share cabin with shared bathroom facilities for the cheapest rates.
Is Antarctica Safe?
The only danger in Antarctica is the weather. There are no travel warnings for visiting Antarctica.
Signed by major nations in 1959, the Antarctic Treaty declares this a place for peace and science. The only part of our planet that belongs to no-one, it belongs to us all.
What wildlife will I see on a luxury Antarctic holiday?
Antarctica’s unique ecosystem hosts a variety of captivating wildlife:
- Penguins: Species such as Emperor, Adélie, and Gentoo penguins.
- Seals: Including Weddell, Leopard, and Crabeater seals.
- Whales: Humpback, Minke, and Orca whales are commonly sighted.
- Birds: Albatrosses, petrels, and skuas grace the skies.
Luxury expeditions often include guided wildlife viewing, ensuring respectful and enriching encounters with these remarkable creatures.
How do I prepare for a luxury trip to Antarctica?
Preparation is key to maximizing the enjoyment of your Antarctic adventure:
- Clothing: Pack high-quality thermal layers, waterproof outerwear, and insulated boots.
- Health: Consult with a healthcare provider regarding vaccinations and ensure you’re in good physical condition for excursions.
- Documentation: Verify passport validity and any necessary visas.
- Photography Gear: Bring cameras with extra batteries and memory cards to capture the breathtaking scenery.
Many luxury operators provide detailed packing lists and support to ensure you’re well-prepared for the journey.
Are luxury Antarctic cruises environmentally responsible?
Reputable luxury Antarctic cruise operators adhere to strict environmental guidelines to minimize their impact. They follow protocols set by the International Association of Antarctica Tour Operators (IAATO), which include:
- Limiting Visitor Numbers: To reduce environmental disturbance.
- Waste Management: Ensuring all waste is removed from the continent.
- Wildlife Protection: Maintaining safe distances and avoiding habitat disruption.
By choosing responsible operators, travelers can enjoy their expedition knowing that conservation and sustainability are prioritized.
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A print anthology of safari and wilderness travel with over 220 pages of travel inspiration.