Epic Antarctic Expeditions
Antarctica is a bucket list destination for almost everyone; the remote, icy landscapes are some of the last untouched regions on Earth, home to incredible wildlife like whales, seals, penguins and seabirds. Vast icebergs rise out of the water, which is sparkling blue, and there’s so much to see and do in a place many assume is just ice.
Cruises to Antarctica can often be prohibitively expensive. Still, it’s a tricky trip to navigate and requires the best experts in the world to sail here, along with photographers, historians, researchers and wildlife experts who all help make expeditions a success. No cruise ships are allowed in Antarctica during its vast winter period, but for half the year, it’s accessible by boat. If you’re ready for the trip of a lifetime, check out these Antarctica cruises in 2024 for an experience you’ll never forget.
Top Antarctica Cruises in 2024
Intrepid Travel: 14-Day Odyssey to Antarctica
Intrepid’s 14-day odyssey to the frozen wonders of Antarctica takes place aboard the Ocean Endeavour. The journey begins in Ushuaia, Argentina, from where you’ll sail across the infamously choppy Drake Passage. Once you arrive, you’ll see breathtaking landscapes on the Antarctic Peninsula, explore the South Shetland Islands and cross the Antarctic Circle.
The cruise offers many exciting excursions, from Zodiac tours to spot wildlife, whale-watching, bird-watching, open ocean kayaking and more. Onboard, expert guides will enhance your experience further with lectures and talks about the region. Intrepid’s ship has fantastic amenities, too, which you’ll need once you’re out of the cold, such as a sauna, gym and lounge area with panoramic windows. Intrepid is well-known for its hardy, expert-led trips to unique destinations, and this Antarctica trip happens to be an excellent value compared to many, so you can be confident you’re in good hands.
G Adventures: Antarctica Classic In-Depth
Unlike some of their shorter tours, this 13-day cruise will get you into this untouched continent's heart. You’ll get to visit the Antarctic Peninsula and the South Shetland Islands over a longer period so that you can take part in amazing experiences, such as spotting penguin colonies, kayaking between icebergs, taking a zodiac on the icy waters and bird-watching.
Like many others, the journey begins and ends in the most southerly point of South America, Ushuaia, which can be easily reached by plane. G Adventures are designed to be small, adventurous tours for those looking to truly experience a destination. This expedition includes a whole host of things, making it one of the best value cruises out there. Aside from 11 nights onboard, it also includes a hotel stay in Ushuaia, transfers, Zodiac excursions and cold-weather gear for exploring. Onboard, you’ll have a comfy cabin, dining area, lounge and experts and lecturers who can tell you more about this unique destination's amazing history and wildlife.
Hurtigruten: Highlights of Antarctica
For a whistle-stop tour that won’t break the bank with one of the most famous expedition cruise lines in the world, look no further than Hurtigruten. Their spectacular 12-day Highlights of Antarctica cruise sails on either the MS Roald Amundsen or the MS Fridjthof Nansen. On the journey, you’ll have the chance to spot seals, penguins, whales and rare birds against the remote, icy backdrop of icebergs. Their expert lecturers onboard each ship also give lectures on everything from climate change and polar exploration to the history of glaciers.
The cruise begins and ends in Ushuaia before heading across the Drake Passage straight for the Antarctic Peninsula. Not only is this expedition great value, considering this luxury cruise line is an expert in their field, but you’ll also get economy flights included in the price from Buenos Aires to Ushuaia, which is likely where you’ll be flying into, including a hotel overnight. The ship also has a fantastic infinity pool, sauna and onboard professional photographer, perfect for capturing memories in such a remarkable location.
Celebrity Cruise Line: 14-Night Antarctica
This great cruise option from Celebrity begins unusually in Buenos Aires and spends 14 nights traveling to and exploring Antarctica. There are five port stops and six days spent at sea, but don’t worry, as there’s plenty to do on board, whether you read up on your destination in the library or listen to fascinating lectures from renowned experts.
This is a great luxury cruise if you also want to see parts of South America, as departing from Buenos Aires means you’ll also be stopping at Ushuaia and Cape Horn in Chile. Once you’ve crossed over to Antarctica, you’ll get to visit Paradise Bay, the Gerlache Strait, Elephant Island and Port Stanley in the Falkland Islands. Plus, on the return journey, you’ll have the chance to explore Montevideo in Uruguay.
The ship has a variety of restaurants, shops, bars and a spa, which can be rare to find on expedition ships to the frozen continent and will keep you entertained during days at sea. Expect excursions such as kayaking, Zodiac tours, wildlife watching and perhaps even an icy cold plunge! The price of this cruise is second to none, making it one of the best value ways to see such a unique location in just two weeks.
Antarctica Awaits
Looking ahead to 2024, Antarctica cruises are calling out to adventurous explorers to discover the amazing beauty of the farthest southern continent. These cruises offer incredible views of icy landscapes and chances to meet fascinating wildlife. Imagine sailing into one of the last untouched places on Earth! Whether you're excited about icy adventures or just want to enjoy the peaceful scenery, the Antarctica cruises in 2024 are ready to give you an awesome experience. Get ready for a special journey that will create memories you'll remember forever.
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