antarctique voyage

Voyage Antarctique

Le continent blanc, le plus sauvage au monde, l’une des terres les moins explorées de la planète. Autant dire que votre voyage en Antarctique peut d’ores et déjà s’appréhender avec tous les superlatifs.

En été comme en hiver, l’Antarctique répond de façon grandiose à vos rêves d’aventure les plus audacieux. Grace à des bateaux d’expédition, à des avions sur skis, à des guides ultra-expérimentés dans cette région glacée et désertique, vous explorez,pas à pas,aux cotés des autres membres de votre groupe, les paysages de ce continent mythique. En Terre de Graham par exemple, vous visitez les bases scientifiques et échangez avec les seuls hommes qui encore récemment pouvaient fouler cette partie du monde. L’esprit de Jean-Baptiste Charcot est là-bas sur chaque cristal de glace.

En été, une fois franchi le passage de Drake , une faune encore peu craintive se laisse observer en toute sérénité. Vos meilleurs amis deviennent alors les manchots, les baleines et les albatros . Lors d’un circuit accompagné ou une croisière en Antarctique tout est envisageable et même le point le plus extrême de la planète, le  pôle Sud géographique est accessible .

Aussi, si la météo est clémente, chaussés de vos skis de fond, vous écarquillerez vos yeux face à un panorama de glaces unique au monde, celui dont Scott et Amundsen ont tant rêvé et qu‘ils ont été les premiers à conquérir. Nos voyages en Antarctique sont bien réels, mais vous entraînent dans une région totalement fantasmagorique…

Voyages en Antarctique

Bateaux d'expédition Navigation Péninsule antarctique

Embarquez à bord du Plancius sur les traces du commandant Charcot. Découvrez ses lieux d'hivernage, l'incroyable faune antarctique et vivez un voyage inoubliable au cœur d'un autre monde. Accompagnement francophone.

Prochain départ : le 01/02/2025

à partir de 12 200 €

15 jours , vol inclus

Bateaux d'expédition Multi-activités Péninsule antarctique

Le bateau d’expédition se fait véritable camp de base pour partir à la découverte de la péninsule Antarctique en pratiquant des activités en tout-terrain : kayak, raquette, alpinisme, camping ou encore atelier photo.

Prochain départ : le 03/12/2024

à partir de 12 300 €

16 jours , vol inclus

Bateaux d'expédition Observation animalière Mer de Weddell

4 voyages en 1 pour découvrir les Malouines, la Géorgie du Sud, les îles Shetland du Sud et la péninsule Antarctique. Navigation très complète combinant l’observation de la faune subantarctique et antarctique.

Prochain départ : le 04/12/2024

à partir de 16 500 €

23 jours , vol inclus

Navigation Péninsule antarctique

Nous partons à la découverte d'une faune singulière propre au grand sud, entre manchots, cétacés et oiseaux, il y en a pour tous les goûts. A bord de notre voilier, nous avons la liberté de l'itinéraire pour multiplier nos chances d'observation et l'occasion d'apprendre quelques manœuvres.

Prochain départ : le 23/11/2024

à partir de 14 730 €

31 jours , vol inclus

Brise-glace Découverte Péninsule antarctique

De la péninsule du Continent Blanc à la mer de Bellingshausen et ses îlots méconnus, le brise-glace Commandant Charcot vous emmène explorer le Grand Sud dans le sillage de l’homme légendaire à qui il doit son nom.

Prochain départ : le 05/12/2025

à partir de 20 420 €

Cap vers le cercle polaire antarctique. Objectif : Longer la Terre de Loubet, observer les spectaculaires glaciers du Cristal Sound, et suivre la campagne de cartographie de Charcot à bord du "Pourquoi-Pas".

Prochain départ : le 08/03/2025

à partir de 10 900 €

Besoin d'un conseil ? Contactez-nous au 01 40 46 05 14

Partez à la découverte de la péninsule Antarctique et de l’archipel des Shetland du Sud, au plus près de ses paysages alpins, dans les dédales d’immenses icebergs si caractéristiques de la péninsule Antarctique.

Prochain départ : le 28/11/2024

à partir de 11 100 €

14 jours , vol inclus

Une navigation rare, un objectif précis : Voir les manchots empereurs venus se reproduire près de Snow Hill, en mer de Weddell. Vols en hélicoptère inclus et dépose à environ 1h de marche des premiers nids.

Prochain départ : le 08/11/2024

à partir de 14 900 €

Bateaux d'expédition Navigation Antarctique

Un voyage d'exception et une découverte très complète du Grand Sud : les Malouines, la Géorgie du Sud, la navigation aux abords de la Mer de Weddell, les Shetland du Sud et enfin le cabotage le long de la Terre de Graham.

Prochain départ : le 16/10/2024

à partir de 16 100 €

24 jours , vol inclus

Bateaux d'expédition Navigation Chili

Terminez et commencez l'année en beauté. Après une expérience mémorable à travers des fjords chiliens, laissez vous tenter par l'appel du grand continent blanc.

Prochain départ : le 22/12/2024

à partir de 9 360 €

Nos bateaux d’expédition spécialement renforcés pour naviguer dans les glaces vous emmènent découvrir l'essentiel de la côte ouest de la péninsule Antarctique.

Prochain départ : le 12/03/2025

à partir de 9 500 €

13 jours , vol inclus

Rejoignez les îles Malouines, puis la Géorgie du Sud, avant d'explorer la mer de Weddell et la péninsule antarctique. Ces deux semaines sont la promesse d’une variété de climats, de paysages et de vie sauvage.

Prochain départ : le 13/01/2025

à partir de 12 940 €

Cette vaste expédition vous emmène au-delà du cercle polaire, à la découverte de la riche vie animale de la mer de Weddell et des paysages surréalistes de la péninsule Antarctique. Des étapes clés telles que la légendaire l'île Éléphant et Crystal Sound rendront ce voyage d'autant plus exceptionnel.

Prochain départ : le 07/03/2025

à partir de 13 500 €

18 jours , vol inclus

Bateaux d'expédition Observation animalière Péninsule antarctique

Une véritable expédition vers la région très rarement visitée de la mer de Bellingshausen, la baie Marguerite et l'île Alexander en passant par la plus grande plateforme glaciaire d'Antarctique, celle de Wilkins.

Prochain départ : le 19/03/2025

19 jours , vol inclus

Vieux gréements et voiliers Navigation Péninsule antarctique

Créé par un explorateur polaire et aventurier hors normes, ce voyage d’exception vous livrera les secrets de la péninsule. Au cœur des terres extrêmes, le continent blanc offre un spectacle de nature sauvage.

Prochain départ : le 29/12/2024

à partir de 16 000 €

Bateaux d'expédition Navigation Mer de Weddell

Malouines, Géorgie du Sud, îles Shetland du Sud et péninsule Antarctique... Gagnez le Grand Sud et franchissez le cercle polaire sur les traces de Shackleton et du commandant Jean-Baptiste Charcot.

Prochain départ : le 18/02/2025

à partir de 19 500 €

26 jours , vol inclus

Cap sur l'extrême. Depuis la Géorgie du Sud, suivez les traces du célèbre explorateur polaire Sir Ernest Shackleton et du navire "Endurance". Vous traverserez la mer de Weddell, avec sa faune fascinante et ses énormes icebergs tabulaires et reviendrez par l’île Eléphant.

Prochain départ : le 09/02/2025

à partir de 27 500 €

Aux confins de l'Antarctique

Cette expédition "découverte de l'Antarctique" restera à jamais gravée dans nos mémoires et nos coeurs. Nous avons pu observer des manchots, des phoques, des otaries, des lions de mer, des baleines, des albatros, etc... Ces moments étaient magiques. La grande beauté des icebergs, des montagnes enneigées, des glaciers...le calme des lieux visités...Magnifique ! Les sorties zodiac étaient très bien organisées. La vie sur le bateau, le confort de la cabine, la nourriture excellente, les membres de l'équipage, tout était PARFAIT!!! Sans oublier "nos" 3 guides français, Hélène, Régis et Stéphane, qui nous ont fait partager leurs passions, leurs expériences, leurs savoirs sur les régions po

CLOTILDE départ du 01/02/2024

Une aventure exceptionnelle à vivre. Une équipe nous entoure pour nous livrer leurs connaissances avec gentillesse, ne comptant pas leur temps. Une nature magnifique, livrée sans transformations humaines. Un joyau ! Confort dans les cabines. Repas succulents servis avec gaieté. Voyage hors du commun c'est une évidence.

JOSIANE départ du 01/02/2024

Merci à GNGL, à OCEANWIDE, à Paloma, aux guides, c'était une première pour nous, plutôt habitués à des voyages individuels!!!!tout absolument tout était parfait, bref un rêve, on a du mal à atterrir pour le coup

Marc départ du 01/02/2024

Ce voyage fut un enchantement: la faune omniprésente, les paysage grandioses et la magie du continent blanc étaient un rêve devenu réalité; la météo a été de notre cote et ajoute a la sublime beauté de l Antartique. Les guides étaient tous des passionnes qui ont su partager avec amour leurs connaissances et qui ont assure notre sécurité et bien être tout au long de ce voyage; les conferences étaient parfaites: variées et intéressantes. Le capitaine et son equipage ont tout fait pour nous mettre a l aise et assurer nos désirs et sécurité. Un immense merci a eux et aux guides, sans oublier Paloma, discret et efficace elle aussi. Et notre groupe était top. C est difficile de faire mieux !

SANDRINE départ du 01/02/2024

Manchots et baleines de la péninsule Antarctique

vraiment magnifique voyage lié aussi à la qualité des interlocuteurs et à leur réactivité parfait

Henri départ du 05/12/2023

* Voir notre charte des avis

Expedition Voyages

World navigator – 98 luxurious suites.

Contact: Mobile/WhatsApp / +1 917 751 5425

WORLD NAVIGATOR, 98  SUITES, MOST WITH BALCONY REACH NEW DEGREES OF ADVENTURE

The words you have heard to describe this vast continent aren’t enough. Antarctica is an experience. Only those who have been, and dared to take the icy-plunge into these remote waters can add their names to a century of exploration where few have gone. It’s time to check the last continent off your list, and prove to all that in these frozen waters filled with prey, we are hunters, and adventure is what we seek.

THE EDGE OF THE WORLD IS JUST THE BEGINNING

With itineraries to check off every explorers bucket list, Antarctica is our latest addition to an amazing portfolio of world-class destinations. When guests decide to strike out beyond the known world, they are reaching out for a land that dares them to leave their comfort zone on the ship and explore wildlife that few ever get to see and a terrain that so many will never get close to setting foot on.

ANTARCTICA DISCOVERY 9 Nights/10 Days WORLD NAVIGATOR, 98  SUITES, MOST WITH BALCONY 2021: NOV 19, DEC 10, 19, 28 2022: JAN 6, 15, 24 FEB 14, 23, MAR 4, 13, 22

Dare to navigate the intrepid Drake Passage to The White Continent. Channel the spirit of brave explorers past as you venture from Ushuaia, Argentina into the almost completely ice-covered Shetland Islands and beyond all the way to Cape Horn, Chile. It’s a wild ride you will not want to miss.

The 10-day Antarctica itineraries feature Captain’s Choice landings. Each day is a unique journey dependent on the weather and where to find the best wildlife and experiences. The Captain and crew will make every effort to afford explorers a rich experience while complying with necessary measures to ensure them a safe passage. The itineraries for Antarctica are subject to change due to extreme weather and environmental conditions. It is not guaranteed that the ship will make port at certain landings, or that specific wildlife will be observed.

ALL-INCLUSIVE VOYAGE  FROM $9,299 PP . Inquire about complimentary air or air credits. Always Included: Gratuities; round-the-clock beer, wine and spirits, plus all non-alcoholic beverages including filtered water; butler service for suites; L’Occitane bath amenities; guided landings and a free shore excursion in select ports; standard Wi-Fi; coffee/tea machines in every suite; luxe accommodations; all meals and snacks; and more!

• Up to $2000 per voyage savings on all departures

• 50 percent reduced deposit

• Free intercontinental roundtrip airfare from select North American gateways to Ushuaia, Argentina

Flexible Booking Terms: Guests are allowed to make changes to cruise expeditions up to 30 days prior to departure.

REQUEST A QUOTE

ANTARCTIC SOLAR ECLIPSE 12 Nights/13 Days NOV 28, 2021 WORLD NAVIGATOR, 98  SUITES, MOST WITH BALCONY

The sea turns to silk, the mountains are draped in velvet snow and darkness descends momentarily setting the stage for one of the rarest celestial events to occur in this region. Witness a total eclipse of the sun as you sail deep through the pack ice on December 4, 2021.

The 13-day Solar Eclipse Antarctica itinerary feature Captain’s Choice landings as each day is a unique journey.  The itinerary is dependent on the weather and where to find the best wildlife and experiences. Potential landings to add to the sense of adventure include Neptune’s Bellows – Deception Island, Paulet Island, Brown Bluff, Neko Harbour, Paradise Bay, Cuverville Island and Goudier Island. The Captain and crew will make every effort to afford explorers a rich experience while complying with necessary measures to ensure them a safe passage. The Antarctica itinerary is subject to change due to extreme weather and environmental conditions. It is not guaranteed that the ship will make port at certain landings, or that specific wildlife will be observed.

ALL-INCLUSIVE VOYAGE  FROM $13,999 PP . Inquire about complimentary air or air credits. Always Included: Gratuities; round-the-clock beer, wine and spirits, plus all non-alcoholic beverages including filtered water; butler service for suites; L’Occitane bath amenities; guided landings and a free shore excursion in select ports; standard Wi-Fi; coffee/tea machines in every suite; luxe accommodations; all meals and snacks; and more!

ANTARCTICA – CROSSING THE CIRCLE 12 Nights/13 Days FEB 2, 2022 WORLD NAVIGATOR, 98  SUITES, MOST WITH BALCONY

As you make the voyage across the Antarctic Circle at the 66th parallel, you become a “Red Nose,” one of the select few who navigate deep into the frontier of The White Continent to make the crossing. It is a feeling of triumph that cannot be beat.

The 13-day Crossing the Circle Antarctica itinerary is determined by the Captain and his expedition team. Each day landings is a unique journey and dependent on the weather and where to find the best wildlife and experiences. Potential landings to add to the sense of adventure include Neptune’s Bellows – Deception Island, Paulet Island, Brown Bluff, Neko Harbour, Paradise Bay, Cuverville Island and Goudier Island. The Captain and crew will make every effort to afford explorers a rich experience while complying with necessary measures to ensure them a safe passage. The 13-day Crossing the Circle itinerary for Antarctica is subject to change due to extreme weather and environmental conditions. It is not guaranteed that the ship will make port at certain landings, or that specific wildlife will be observed.

ALL-INCLUSIVE VOYAGE  FROM $11,999 PP . Inquire about complimentary air or air credits. Always Included: Gratuities; round-the-clock beer, wine and spirits, plus all non-alcoholic beverages including filtered water; butler service for suites; L’Occitane bath amenities; guided landings and a free shore excursion in select ports; standard Wi-Fi; coffee/tea machines in every suite; luxe accommodations; all meals and snacks; and more!

The ship World Navigator is rated Polar Category C and Ice Class 1B and utilizes underwater forward-looking radar to safely and confidently ply icy polar waters.

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Manchot sur un iceberg, Antarctique ©Alexey Suloev/shutterstock

Baleine et iceberg, Antarctique ©Alexey Suloev/shutterstock

Phoque, Antarctique ©Ocean Wide Expeditions

Antarctique

Choisissez votre voyage parmi 1 croisière.

Vivre l’expérience du pôle sud et explorer un monde tout à fait en marge de la réalité des temps modernes, ça n’arrive pas qu’aux chercheurs et scientifiques. Un voyage en Antarctique est un moment de détente à part entière. Ce désert blanc a de quoi vous offrir un séjour unique rythmé de croisières chaleureuses entre les icebergs et glaciers de ce paysage grandiose dont la virginité vous éblouira de sa singularité et sa beauté saisissante. A bord de bateaux, vous ferez la découverte la plus époustouflante de votre vie. Prêt pour l’embarcation ?

Embarquez pour une croisière en Antarctique

La saison touristique en Antarctique ne dure que quelques mois. C’est pendant l’été austral qui s’étend de Novembre à Mars, que la fonte des glaces ouvre de belles voies de navigation aux bateaux de croisière à destination du continent le plus méridional de la planète. L’Antarctique est accessible depuis la Nouvelle Zélande ou l’Australie, mais c’est surtout au départ de l’Amérique latine que la plupart des compagnies vous proposent leurs programmes de croisière en Antarctique. Vous partez à la conquête de sensations intenses devant le spectacle d’un monde immaculé à l’horizon infini. Les montagnes de glace, les colonies d’otaries, l’effondrement d’icebergs, les bases scientifiques…autant d’aventures qui feront de vous un privilégié sur terre.

Une croisière d’expédition en Antarctique pour voir des contrées dissimulées

Votre voyage en Antarctique commence traditionnellement à Ushuaia, l’extrême pointe sud de l’Argentine. Nous vous proposons des croisières partant de ce point, notamment notre croisière Ponant en Antarctique. La vue des bateaux en partance de cette magnifique baie est la première image mémorable qui s’offre à vous. Dès que vous vous éloignez de la mer d’Argentine, la traversée du Passage de Drake vous attend. Pendant 2 jours, faites monter votre adrénaline en sentant les frissons de ce célèbre point de navigation avec ses 1000 km de long. Ensuite vous attendent plusierus option, par exemple l’Archipel des Îles Shetland avec ses huit stations météorologiques, ses éléphants de mer et ses pentes volcaniques : cet archipel est animé par une grande communauté scientifique qui a élu domicile dans l’île du Roi George où banque, poste, école, magasins et un petit hôtel font office de services aux habitants. Ou bien vous vous dirigerez vers Port Lockroy qui offre de magnifiques panoramas, au cours d’une traversée à travers ses fjords immaculés…

Manchots, phoques et albatros seront vos nouveaux amis

Un séjour en Antarctique est aussi un rendez-vous avec une faune aquatique exceptionnellement abondante. Baleines, orques, phoques, otaries, albatros, léopards de mer et manchots accompagnent votre croisière et vous accueillent à chaque escale. Vous pouvez immortaliser votre voyage en prenant des photos avec ces espèces avides de nouvelles connaissances. Hormis les mammifères, une belle concentration d’oiseaux (sternes, skuas, cormorans etc.) fascinera les objectifs de vos appareils.

À partir de

12 jours - 11 nuits

Antarctique emblématique

2 pays du grand nord et antarctique à découvrir.

Vivez une aventure absolument unique en explorant les continents glacés des pôles ! À bord de votre bateau d'expédition, plongez dans l'univers des plus grands explorateurs modernes, enfilez votre combinaison et bravez les températures glaciales du Groenland et de l'Antarctique. Contemplez d'immenses icebergs formant des cités de neige et écoutez le silence absolu qui règne à l'extrême bout du monde. Les émotions les plus intenses vous attendent dans ces contrées reculées de notre planète !

LE BLOG Kuoni

Vous prévoyez de partir en voyage ? Retrouvez ici des informations et conseils pour bien préparer votre projet. Quelle formule de voyage vous convient le mieux ? Quelle valise idéale pour une destination particulière ? Consulter les récits de voyage de nos guides locaux, de nos experts et de nos voyageurs, découvrir des expériences insolites à vivre… Bonne lecture !

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Antarctica Cruises & Tours

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

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

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

Our Antarctica trips

The ocean endeavour: inside our expedition ship.

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

Why choose us

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

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

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

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

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

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

Antarctica tour reviews

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Journey to the Antarctic Circle (Ocean Endeavour)

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

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

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

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

Everything you need to know about the Ocean Endeavour

Arctic vs Antarctic cruises: How to choose your polar expedition

The 10 Antarctica questions you want answered

Pro tips and travel tales from Antarctica photography guide Andrew Miller

Antarctica Optional Experiences

Antarctica Camping

Polar Kayaking Adventures

Antarctica Snowshoeing

Antarctica photography

Antarctica Day Paddle

Antarctica Stand-up Paddleboarding

Extend your adventure

Beyond the Ocean Endeavour

Popular regions

Antarctica at a glance.

(UTC+13:00) New Zealand

CALLING CODE

Electricity.

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

Learn more about Antarctica

Eating and drinking.

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

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

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

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

Geography and environment

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

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

History and government

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

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

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

Further reading

Antarctica travel faqs, where is antarctica.

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

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

What country is Antarctica in?

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

What are the possible landing sites in Antarctica?

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

What types of animals live in Antarctica?

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

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

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

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

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

When is the best time to visit Antarctica?

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

What is the weather like in Antarctica?

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

What do I wear in Antarctica?

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

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

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

Will my cell phone work in Antarctica? 

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

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

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

How do I choose an Antarctic cruise?

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

How much does a cruise to Antarctica cost?

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

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

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

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

How do we meet our responsible travel targets in Antarctica?

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

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

Does my trip to Antarctica support The Intrepid Foundation?

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

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

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

Want to learn more about Antarctica?

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

Full list of Antarctica FAQs

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

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

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Home > Destinations > Antarctica

Antarctica Cruises

Imagine a place so pristine and remote you can hear snowflakes hitting the water.

“I would advise anyone with the smallest inkling or desire to visit Antarctica to just do it!” says Ruth T. “My trip was born from an off-the-cuff comment to my husband. After four years of planning and saving, we made it happen and celebrated our wedding anniversary in Antarctica.”

“I thought I’d never get the chance to visit Antarctica,” says Rachel B. “I did and it was worth every cent. The landscape, the flora and the fauna. Words cannot explain the experience I had. If you’ve ever thought about it just do it!”

Take a look around at our 2024-25 Antarctica itineraries below then  request a booking  and let us help you start planning your dream trip. Your Antarctic expedition begins here!

Antarctic Peninsula

South georgia, falklands~malvinas, weddell sea, antarctic circle, best time to go.

Explore Antarctica

Antarctica is the southernmost continent on Earth. The South Geographic Pole is in Antarctica, and most of the continent lies within the Antarctic Circle, at 66.5 degrees south of the Equator.

Antarctica is so far south that most of the continent receives 24 hours of daylight during summer, and 24 hours of darkness during winter.

Antarctica lies to the south of Australia, New Zealand, South Africa and South America, and is surrounded by the Southern Ocean (also known as the Antarctic Ocean). Most visitors access Antarctica via ship or aircraft from an Antarctic ‘gateway city’. The five official Antarctic gateway cities are Ushuaia (Argentina), Hobart (Australia), Punta Arenas (Chile), Christchurch (New Zealand), and Cape Town (South Africa).

The name ‘Antarctica’ comes from ‘Antarktos’, meaning ‘opposite the Arctic’. Antarctica and the Arctic are indeed opposites in many ways, and they lie at the polar extremes of the globe: the Arctic to the north and Antarctica to the south.

Antarctica is home to a hardy community of  wonderful wildlife , which has adapted to the cold, windy and icy Antarctic environment.

There are four species of penguins in Antarctica. They are the emperor, Adélie, gentoo and chinstrap. The emperor and Adélie penguins are found only in Antarctica.

There are six species of Antarctic seals: Ross seals, Weddell seals, crabeater seals, leopard seals, southern fur seals and southern elephant seals. They all live in the ocean surrounding Antarctica, hauling out on ice or land to rest and pup.

Many whales visit Antarctic waters during the summer feeding season between late October and early April. The whales that commonly visit Antarctic waters include humpback whales, killer whales, minke whales, fin whales, sei whales and even the enormous blue whale!

In addition to these charismatic creatures we see on the ocean’s surface, the Antarctic ocean is filled with a rich variety of sea life, from single-celled algae, which form the foundation of the Antarctic food web, to krill, a tiny crustacean which is a keystone species in the Antarctic ecosystem, providing sustenance for seals, whales, penguins and many other seabirds.

Most animals that thrive in Antarctica are marine animals. This means that they rely on the ocean and marine ecosystems to survive and thrive. However, there are a few Antarctic animals that live entirely on land. These include the microscopic springtails, nematodes and tardigrades, which live amongst moss and lichen in areas which are not permanently snow-covered.

Antarctica cruises usually span between 9 to 21 days, with most falling within the 10 to 14-day range. The duration of an Antarctica cruise can vary based on factors like the departure point and the specific itinerary chosen.

The price of an Antarctica cruise can vary significantly, depending on factors such as the Antarctica cruise’s duration, cabin type, and specific itinerary.

The price of a voyage to Antarctica with Aurora Expeditions starts from around $12,500 USD per person twin share in an Aurora Stateroom. Read about what is included in your Antarctica cruise .

Without a doubt, an Antarctica cruise offers a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to witness the pristine beauty of the frozen continent, unique wildlife, and awe-inspiring landscapes. Many travelers find the experience of an Antarctica cruise to be a dream come true.

Antarctica is the  coldest continent on Earth. The average temperature throughout the year is about -57°C, with the minimum temperature being -130°F (-90°C) during the winter season.

During the summer months, when we visit, the temperature can range from 28°F (-2°C) to 46°F (8°C). In summer, big storms are rare, but if one comes through the temperature could drop to 17°F (-8°C ). Read more about why austral summer is the best time to visit Antarctica.

Shipboard clothing is informal and casual. Jeans, jumpers, and long-sleeved shirts are ideal for indoors in the polar regions; however, be sure to keep your jacket close for unexpected wildlife sightings!

Some people like to take a nicer outfit for the captain’s welcome and farewell drinks, but formal clothing is not necessary.

Each passenger aboard our Antarctic expeditions will receive an expedition jacket when they board the ship. However, you’ll need to ensure you pack the correct cold and wet weather gear for your landings.

View our  suggested packing list , which covers the types of layers and materials we recommend.

No matter where you call home, the easiest way to get to Antarctica is from the southern tip of South America. There are two common departure points for Antarctica: Ushuaia, Argentina and Punta Arenas, Chile, both located in the Patagonian region and among the most southern towns on the planet.

Expeditions beginning in Ushuaia will usually involve sailing across the Drake Passage to the Antarctic Peninsula or sailing to the Subantarctic Islands of the Falklands or South Georgia, before continuing to Antarctica.

From Punta Arenas, passengers can have the unique experience of flying to Antarctica – or more specifically to King George Island – on a charter flight arranged specifically for their expedition.

Find out more information about  how to get to Antarctica .

The ideal time to embark  on an Antarctica cruise is during the austral summer, between early October and late March. The Antarctic winter is cold and dark, and the continent is surrounded by an enormous fringe of sea ice, which almost doubles its size. Many animals migrate north, and the Antarctic Peninsula is inaccessible.

As summer arrives the sun returns to Antarctica, and with it comes rafts of penguins, pods of whales and herds of seals. Sea ice drifts or melts away from the Antarctic Peninsula coastline, allowing expedition vessels access into many sheltered bays and harbours to marvel at the splendor of the frozen continent.

Travelers should consult with their healthcare providers to ensure they are physically prepared for the Antarctica cruise.

It is compulsory for each passenger to return a signed medical from their general practitioner. Your  Medical Form  is required to be signed by your general practitioner and returned to Aurora Expeditions no later than three months and no earlier than six months before your voyage departure date.

If you become aware of any change in your health and fitness that may be likely to affect your participation on the trip (e.g. pregnancy, mental illness, heart or bronchial disorder, broken limbs, etc.), you should notify us in writing immediately.

If you feel that you are particularly  susceptible to seasickness , then it is a good idea to talk to your doctor. We advise you to come armed with motion sickness tablets, and there will be a doctor on board to assist with any bouts of seasickness.

Travelers should also be aware of  environmental protection guidelines  and follow responsible tourism practices to preserve Antarctica’s fragile ecosystem during their cruise.

Children are more than welcome on our Antarctica cruises. However, we recommend that they are at least 8 years old and must travel with their legal guardian. Children pay the same rate as an adult traveler.

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Antarctica Destinations

Antarctic peninsula.

Embark on the adventure of a lifetime with our Antarctic cruises. Explore the breathtaking Antarctic Peninsula region, where majestic humpback whales gracefully roam. Our Antarctic cruises offer a unique opportunity to witness the awe-inspiring beauty of this pristine wilderness while encountering remarkable wildlife. Join us for an unforgettable journey to the heart of Antarctica

South Georgia

Paddle the picturesque bays with our experienced kayaking guides and explore this charming region at your own speed. We’ll also launch our Zodiac boats to explore the coastline and its wildlife. See incredible king penguin colonies, macaroni and Gentoo penguins, seabirds and fur and elephant seals. South Georgia offers an unparalleled wildlife experience.

ItinerarieS

US$ 11 595

US$ 8 836

US$ 7 571

US$ 11 096

US$ 11 216

ABUNDANT ANTARCTIC WILDLIFE

Antarctica is famous for its penguins. In the South Shetland Islands and Antarctic Peninsula you can go ashore at sites where gentoo, chinstrap, and adélie penguins come together in boisterous nesting colonies. Meeting with an inquisitive penguin chick is an experience not to be forgotten.

The windswept and treeless Falkland Islands are a birders’ paradise. The islands boast a great abundance and diversity of birdlife including five species of penguin.

In the island of South Georgia, seabirds and marine mammals are counted in the millions. The island’s beaches are packed with fur seals and elephant seals jostling for space alongside innumerable king penguins.

INCREDIBLE POLAR SCENERY

The scenery in Antarctic is like nothing else on Earth. Massive, rugged, gleaming white mountains—covered on all but their sheerest faces by permanent snow and innumerable glaciers—rise from deep blue waters to form protected bays and scenic passages such as the renowned Lemaire Channel.

Floating everywhere in these pristine waterways are fragments of the continent’s frozen surface. From gargantuan icebergs that dwarf our ship to billowy blankets of brash ice crackling in the wake of our Zodiacs, ice is the ever-present backdrop of our voyage.

During the authentic once-per-year Crossing the Antarctic Circle cruise we will see rarely visited regions south of the Polar Circle, the vast, white landscapes, which are both bleak and beautiful, the weather is especially wild, and the waters are full of constantly shifting sea ice and enormous tabular icebergs.

HUMAN ENTERPRISE, PAST AND PRESENT

Antarctica has been the setting of many heroic adventures and journeys of discovery. On this voyage you will be following in the historic footsteps of early whalers, polar explorers, and scientific expeditions.

Visit Point Wild on Elephant Island, where Earnest Shackleton and his men spent part of their historic odyssey. Also in the South Shetland Islands are the historical remains of a whaling station at Deception Island, as well as a multitude of far-flung research bases operated by various countries.

In these areas you also have the opportunity to appreciate modern human ingenuity at scientific research stations of various nationalities. Some of these stations, such as Port Lockroy, even boast a museum, gift shop, and post office.

THROUGH THE VIEWFINDER

PHOTOGRAPHY

The world-class wildlife and landscapes found on this voyage offer a dazzling array of subjects for photographers of all backgrounds. Our free photography program gives you the chance to learn and practice your skills alongside an experienced expert. An albatross, great wings outstretched, glides to the ground beside its downy chick. Two bull elephant seals stage a ferocious battle against a backdrop of glaciers. An iceberg casts its reflection upon water rippling with the motion of penguins. With a stupendous abundance of animals and scenery beyond comparison, this voyage provides a cornucopia of inspiration for the photographer. Our expert will be available to help you make the most of this bounty in your viewfinder.

SEA KAYAKING

Our optional kayaking program gives you the chance to experience these incredible destinations in a unique and interesting way. All three regions on this itinerary offer fantastic paddling opportunities, each one more rewarding than the last. Sea Kayak Club participants in South Georgia encounter swarms of penguins and seals while paddling in a supremely wild and beautiful environment. The Antarctic Peninsula delights kayakers with spectacular polar scenery and ice features of every description. This voyage takes you to some of the world’s most gorgeous locations and offers some of the best opportunities to paddle with wildlife. If you enjoy sea kayaking, then do not miss your chance to participate in this exciting adventure activity.

ANTARCTICA CAMPING

Antarctica Camping is a unique and unforgettable way to expand your experience on the White Continent. This optional activity allows you to meet Antarctica on its own terms by spending a night out on the ice and snow. Camping is a great opportunity to immerse yourself in the Antarctic wilderness. Spend hours watching the drama of ever-changing light upon the landscape, capturing that perfect photo, or simply falling asleep to the mysterious sounds of the ice. On your camping night you can take the time to fully experience whatever joy Antarctica holds for you. You will also gain undeniable bragging rights, lasting memories, and a newfound appreciation for your warm bed back on the ship.

Why go to Antarctica with Poseidon Expeditions?

There’s no place in the world like Antarctica – a land of icebergs and penguins, overwhelming icescapes and vibrant wildlife. We invite you on an authentic expedition to hidden and rarely visited corners of the White Continent. Why travel with us?

Wildlife encounters

Our focus is on unique marine wildlife viewing at sites shared with countless penguins, seabirds, seals, sea lions and majestic whales.

25 years of polar experience

Supported by a thorough understanding and appreciation of Antarctica, every aspect of your cruise is important to us.

Small ship – big advantage

This concept allows our passengers to have the greatest selection of landing sites, following the regulations and guidelines for Antarctic travel.

Expert expedition team

Our polar team will share their enthusiasm for Antarctica, while the expedition leader and captain will create the best routing possible.

Smooth sailing

M/v Sea Spirit is equipped with state-of-the-art stabilizers for comfortable cruising in the Drake Passage and across the Antarctic Convergence.

IAATO member

We are a member in good standing of IAATO, which works cooperatively to ensure safe and environmentally responsible travel.

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Discover the white continent.

Have you ever dreamed of exploring one of the most remote places on Earth? If you are an avid traveler who wants to discover the polar regions off the beaten path, our expedition cruises are perfect for you.

Experience scenic landscapes, unique wildlife, and the mesmerizing sight of mightly glaciers during a Zodiac cruise. Feel the same excitement as the famous explorers when you finally set foot on the Antarctic Peninsula.

Our expedition ship, the Sea Spirit , is perfectly suited for small group travel to the most remote places in comfort and style. Begin the trip of a lifetime now with the best expedition team on the planet!

Embarking on an Antarctic expedition cruise with Poseidon is a remarkable opportunity to visit Antarctica, as our cruises combine active exploration (we organize up to 2-3 landings a day depending on weather conditions) with utmost comfort and luxury aboard our deluxe expedition vessel, the Sea Spirit.

Highlights of your Antarctic Expedition Cruise

Discover iconic wildlife

It’s not only the penguins and their chicks that will steal your heart in Antarctica. Fur, leopard and elephant seals, as well as an abundance of seabirds will cross paths with us. Imagine iconic wildlife on a beautiful beach on South Georgia Island, with glacier covered mountains in the background.

Planning a Big Year? The most avid birder’s dreams come true on the Falkland Islands, where you can see five different species of penguins and seabirds. And don’t forget to look out for killer and humpback whales!

Experience polar exploration history

Follow in the footsteps of the historic Antarctic explorers! Learn about their courageous adventures. Visit ancient whaling stations on South Georgia and Deception Island and modern research stations on the White Continent.

Expand your horizons

Attend onboard lectures and learn about history, geography, marine biology and photography from our onboard specialists, or join our citizen science projects and work side-by-side with top researchers. Record cloud types, observe wildlife and help collect important data for research projects.

Indulge in our well-stocked polar library aboard the Sea Spirit . Share your passion for the Antarctic with fellow travelers from all over the world and make contacts and memories that will last a lifetime.

As members of the International Association of Antarctica Tour Operators (IAATO), we participate in various projects to protect wildlife and nature. One of the latest projects is the 10km/hour voluntary speed limit in the Gerlache Strait and adjacent whale-rich waters during whale season, launched in 2020.

Join the sea kayak club

This one’s an optional, but very popular feature on all of our cruises. Kayaking gives you the unique option to get closer to the action, surrounded by the most amazing landscapes.

Imagine approaching the icy shore when, suddenly, a group of penguins dives into the water right in front of you! Our sea kayaks are small and stable; therefore, they are easy to maneuver and don’t disturb nature and wildlife.

Camp on the ice

Few adventurers have spent a night in Antarctica and you can become one of them! State-of-the-art equipment will keep you warm throughout the night before you step back aboard our comfortable ship.

Explore polar research stations

Visit Port Lockroy, a functioning scientific station with a museum and gift shop. Make sure you send a post card home from their post office.

Discover the subantarctic islands

Depending on your cruise itinerary, you’ll have the chance to explore the South Shetland Islands (rich in history and wildlife), Enterprise Island (featuring a Norwegian whaling ship wreck), South Georgia Island and the Falklands.

Antarctic Destinations

Realm of Penguins & Icebergs (Antarctic Peninsula)

New Year & Christmas in Antarctica (Antarctic Peninsula)

Antarctic Wildlife Adventure (Falklands, South Georgia and the Antarctic Peninsula)

Crossing 66º South Latitude (The Antarctic Circle)

Our Antarctic Expedition Cruises

Ushuaia, often referred to as the "gateway to Antarctica," is where most Antarctica cruises begin, offering travelers a convenient starting point to embark on their adventure to explore the breathtaking landscapes of the Antarctic continent. Our once-in-a-lifetime voyages include:

Realm of Penguins & Icebergs  (Antarctic Peninsula)

After departing from Ushuaia, Argentina aboard the Sea Spirit , you will cross the infamous Drake Passage. Your first glimpse of Antarctica will be the South Shetland Islands, where you will explore the local history and wildlife. We’ll continue along the Antarctic Peninsula before passing through the Gerlache Strait, surrounded by spectacular mountains, pristine glaciers and icebergs, before heading back to port.

New Year & Christmas in Antarctica  (Antarctic Peninsula)

Celebrate the holidays aboard the Sea Spirit and discover the pristine polar wilderness of the Antarctic Peninsula. Leave Ushuaia in Argentina aboard the Sea Spirit and head south across the infamous Drake Passage. Explore the South Shetland Islands, rich in history and wildlife. Immerse yourself in the captivating world of penguin colonies, where you can delight in observing these charismatic creatures as they navigate their daily routines. Prepare yourself for an unforgettable holiday, celebrating with like-minded travelers over gourmet meals, drinks and dances aboard the Sea Spirit . You will never forget your Christmas Antarctica cruise!

Antarctic Wildlife Adventure  (Falklands, South Georgia and the Antarctic Peninsula)

You will leave Ushuaia, Argentina aboard the Sea Spirit cruising to the Falkland Islands. For birders this is a real paradise with penguin rookeries and seabirds. Further along, we journey to South Georgia Island, where you will stroll pristine beaches while penguins and seals roam the beautiful landscape. Keep an eye out for the splendid king penguins (distinct from the emperor penguins)! It's an exceptional location to witness their presence and immerse yourself in the incredible array of wildlife that thrives in this area. Explore abandoned whaling stations and learn about the region’s history in the museum in Grytviken.

Crossing 66º South Latitude  (The Antarctic Circle)

Take this unique voyage further south than any other cruise. From Ushuaia, Argentina we’ll cross the infamous Drake Passage aboard the Sea Spirit and explore the South Shetland Islands, rich in their own history and wildlife. We then continue on to the Gerlache Strait, framed with glacier-covered mountains and famous for iconic marine mammals and penguins.

We push further south to cross the Antarctic Circle to see the real spirit of the White Continent with bleak white landscapes and harsh weather conditions.

Photo cruises

Poseidon offers Antarctica cruises to suit every taste and more. Experience more than just an Antarctica cruise – embark on a photo cruise to the White Continent! Our photo expeditions prioritize photography and accommodate only 100 guests, ensuring an exclusive and personalized experience. Simultaneous landings during our Antarctica cruises guarantee no group rotations, maximizing time to capture stunning images.

Poseidon's Antarctica cruises for photographers prioritize the golden hour – that magical time, perfect for breathtaking shots. Visit Antarctica and create stunning polar moments.

Poseidon's Antarctica cruises for photographers of all skill levels provide expert guidance from photo experts, which will boost your photography skills. Learn new techniques and tips, taking your abilities to the next level. Moreover, during our Antarctica cruises, you will have a chance to connect with like-minded individuals who share your passion for photography and polar love. Exchange tips, experiences, and build lasting connections with fellow photographers aboard.

Antarctica travel guide – get ready for your expedition cruise

When is the best time to take an antarctic cruise.

The best time to take an Antarctic cruise depends on personal preferences. The Antarctic summer (November to March) offers milder temperatures, abundant wildlife, and stunning ice formations. Early season (November-December) provides snow-covered landscapes, while late season (February-March) offers whale sightings and mesmerizing sunsets. Consult with our experts to tailor your experience. No matter when you choose, an Antarctic expedition cruise promises awe-inspiring scenery and unforgettable adventures.

How to get to Antarctica

Our expedition cruises start in Ushuaia or Buenos Aires, Argentina (depending on your itinerary) where you will board our small expedition ship, the Sea Spirit . Airport pick-up and transfer to the hotel, as well as a one-night accommodation before our trip starts, are included in the price. You will just have to arrange airfare to and from Ushuaia (or Buenos Aires) by yourself. But, of course, we can assist you with booking if needed!

Travel arrangements

Depending on your nationality, you may require a visa to enter Argentina (where the cruise begins). We are happy to advise you on visa arrangements, the required set of documents and can also assist with contacting the relevant consulates.

Interesting facts about Antarctica

• Antarctica is the driest, windiest and coldest continent. The blizzards on the White Continent can lift snow at speeds of up to 320km/h.
• No country owns Antarctica according to the Antarctic Treaty, signed in 1959 (and which came into force on June 23rd, 1961). It’s listed as a nature preserve and place to conduct peaceful activities and science, with 48 nations supporting the agreement.
• Antarctica features a diverse landscape, including Mt. Erebus (an active volcano), Mt. Vinson (the highest peak at 4,892m) and numerous lakes under the ice. One of them, Lake Vostok (a freshwater lake), is covered by 4km-thick ice.
• Antarctica currently hosts 70 permanent research stations representing 29 nations.

Discover the historic explorers of Antarctica

Ronald Amundsen

After Cook and Peary claimed to have reached the North Pole, Amundsen abandoned his target and changed his route to the South Pole. En route to Antarctica in 1910 on the Fram, he reached the Bay of Whales near the eastern edge of the Ross Ice Shelf in January 1911 and set out to the pole in October 1911. Travelling by dogsled and skis proved successful and Amundsen ultimately won the race to the South Pole on December 14th, 1911, a month before Scott’s party.

Robert F. Scott

Scott first journeyed to Antarctica aboard the Discovery expedition in 1901-1904 together with Sir Ernest Shackleton. While not reaching the pole, they were able to collect valuable experience and data. On his second attempt on the Terra Nova Expedition of 1910-1913, he was challenged by Amundsen, who suddenly changed course to the South Pole. Scott started his march on November 1st, 1911. After a grueling march, five men reached the pole on January 17th, 1912, where they found remains of Amundsen’s party. Scott presumably perished on March 29th, 1912 on his return to camp.

Sir Ernest Shackleton

Shackleton’s ill-fated Trans-Antarctic Expedition (1914-17) on the Endurance got trapped in pack ice in the Weddell Sea. Venturing over pack ice, they reached Elephant Island, from which Shackleton and a few men sailed to South Georgia Island in a small lifeboat. Leaving his second-in-command, Frank Wild, back on Elephant Island with the rest of the crew, Shackleton made it safely to South Georgia, where he reached the Stromness whaling station after crossing the island on foot. Every member of the expedition survived.

A typical day aboard our expedition ship

We want to show you the best of the Antarctic and its most breathtaking places. Weather permitting, we will land on pristine shores, hike to beautiful viewpoints and cruise in our small motorized Zodiac boats. Join the kayak club and you can paddle close-up to wildlife and nature at your own pace. But even at days at sea, ship life aboard the Sea Spirit will keep you busy. Visit lectures by our specialists, hit the gym, read books about Antarctica in our polar library, enjoy gourmet meals in our restaurant, meet fellow travelers at the bar or in our coffee and tea lounge, or just enjoy the beautiful views from your comfortable cabin.

When stepping ashore…

While you already get the best views from our small expedition ship, the Sea Spirit , cruising ashore with our Zodiac boats will bring you even closer to the action. These motorized, safe and durable boats are designed for a maximum of 16 passengers and are perfect for ecologically-sound cruising, minimizing your impact on nature and wildlife.

How to keep busy aboard…

Ship life aboard the Sea Spirit , will keep you busy. Enjoy gourmet meals in the restaurant or open-air bistro on deck, or join your fellow travelers for a chat at the bar. Our Salon Club offers coffee and tea 24/7 and snacks in-between meals.

Visit the captain’s bridge to be the first one to spot wildlife. Pick up binoculars, chat with the crew, or just simply enjoy the best views from this part of the ship.

We bring top scientists aboard and encourage our passengers to participate in their research. Check with us on what projects will be available on your cruise.

Stay active during your cruise

Visit our gym whenever you feel the need to stretch your legs or take a stroll on deck and take in the fresh ocean breeze.

What important things should I consider when traveling to Antarctica?

• Choose your expedition ship wisely! To get the full experience and make the most of wildlife sightings, landings and activities, join a cruise with less than 200 passengers. You’ll get a more personal experience, get closer to the action and form closer bonds with like-minded fellow travelers!
• Cruise with the best! Choose a company that has many years of experience with a top team. This is important to guarantee your safety and the trip of our lifetime! We at Poseidon Expeditions go the extra mile – we hire the best of the best. We stay up to date on the latest environmental requirements, engage in research and citizen science projects! We are also very proud of being fully in compliance with the Antarctic Treaty and all IAATO requirements.
• Choose your cruise – pick the right itinerary. There are lots of ways to explore the White Continent, so choose the best for you! Typical cruises to Antarctica last for 10-12 nights, with ample time for landings. Cruises from 20 to 24 nights feature not only the Antarctic Peninsula, but also the subantarctic islands like South Georgia and the Falklands.
• Communication and Planning For a trip of a lifetime ensure you have the right travel partner to plan it. Make sure to go with an operator that speaks your language, understands your needs and helps you proactively plan your trip!

Do I need travel insurance?

Yes, you will require travel insurance that covers you for the duration of the cruise. Please ensure that it includes travel to the polar regions and has an evacuation and repatriation coverage for no less than 200,000 USD.

While we do not require it, we do encourage passengers to also have cancellation insurance.

What do I do if I get seasick?

Everyone reacts differently to the occasional, rough water of the Drake Passage. Passengers should consult their personal physician prior to travel to Antarctica and carry the recommended preventative medications at all times. That said, not all Drake Passage crossings are tumultuous.

What clothes do I need to bring?

We recommend layering your clothes, so you can add or subtract based on weather conditions. Start with warm thermal undergarments made from merino wool or synthetics (not cotton), layer with polar fleece, wool and finish off with water and windproof materials. Keep your body warm, but let it breathe! Don’t forget your hats, scarves and gloves. We’ll have our warm expedition parka ready for you aboard, which you can take home with you, as well as rubber boots for landings, which are yours for the duration of the trip.

Click here to review our check-list on what clothes to bring with you!

What currency do you accept for payment on board?

Currency on board is US dollars. At the end of the voyage, you may pay your tab in cash, or with a major credit card (Visa, MasterCard, AMEX). We don’t accept traveler’s cheques.

How cold will it get during my voyage?

We cruise during the Antarctic summer. On the subantarctic islands and the Antarctic Peninsula, temperatures average around 0°C during our cruises.

What is included in the cruise fee?

Airport transfer from Ushuaia to your hotel, as well as the first night, are included in your cruise package. Accommodation aboard the Sea Spirit , all port fees, meals aboard and Zodiac cruises and landings are included. Alcoholic beverages, additional activities such as kayaking and camping are separate.

How much luggage can I bring?

It’s always best to pack for the segment of your flight itinerary that has the smallest baggage allowance requirement - baggage allowances on international flights are often larger than domestic flights. Also, be sure to check with your airline to confirm what you are allowed to carry.

Our ships have laundry facilities. Baggage allowance onboard is 2 pieces per 1 person.

Go to our How to pack page for more details.

Will there be Wi-Fi, phones or mobile coverage aboard?

Our expedition ship, the Sea Spirit , is equipped with Wi-Fi, which is included in the cruise package.

What is the time zone in Antarctica

Antarctica, being a vast and uninhabited continent, does not have a designated time zone of its own. The time zones used in Antarctica are typically based on the time zone of the country or research station operating in that particular region. For example, research stations operated by countries like New Zealand, Australia, and Argentina would follow their respective time zones. Similarly, stations operated by other countries or organizations would adhere to the time zone of their home base. As Antarctica is primarily used for scientific research and doesn't have any permanent residents, the concept of time zone is more practical and logistical rather than a reflection of local inhabitants' daily routines.

Are Antarctica cruises expensive?

Antarctica cruises offer a range of options to suit different preferences and budgets. The cost of an Antarctic cruise can vary depending on factors such as trip duration, vessel type, and included activities. We believe that the value of an Antarctic cruise lies in the unparalleled experiences and breathtaking sights that await you. Embark on an unforgettable journey to this pristine and awe-inspiring destination, where you'll have the chance to witness stunning landscapes and encounter unique wildlife. Explore the wonders of Antarctica with us and discover a world of adventure, beauty, and discovery. Contact us today to discuss the various cruise options available and find the one that suits your desires.

How far in advance do I need to book an Antarctic cruise?

To secure the best cabins and take advantage of early bird discounts, it's recommended to book your Antarctica cruise as early as possible. Availability is limited, and by booking well in advance, you increase your chances of choosing your preferred dates, accommodations, and enjoying cost-saving benefits. Don't delay, it is high time to visit Antarctica! Start planning your extraordinary Antarctica cruise today!

Are this trips a good choice for solo travelers?

Antarctica cruises are an excellent choice for solo travelers seeking unforgettable experiences and unique adventures. Joining an Antarctic expedition provides a fantastic opportunity to meet like-minded individuals from around the world who share a passion for exploration and discovery. You'll have the chance to connect with fellow travelers, forge new friendships, and create lasting memories together. The supportive and inclusive environment on board ensures that solo travelers feel welcome and part of the expedition community. Embark on a solo journey to Antarctica and immerse yourself in the beauty and wonder of the frozen continent while connecting with fellow explorers. Start your solo adventure today!

An untamed world: Discovering the wild dreamscape of Antarctica

As a writer, I am very rarely at a loss for words. But I have no adjectives or adverbs to adequately describe what I saw when staring out at the vast whiteness of the Antarctic Peninsula.

Instead, I found my mind kept drifting away like thick floes of sea ice, captivated by the silhouette of a whale off the starboard side of the ship — or maybe just the crest of a wave.

There are simply no words fit for capturing the icy expanse, a wildness too great to distill into logical sentences.

Perhaps that's because Antarctica is a place of such extreme contrasts and contradictions. It is immense, inhospitable and particularly mutable. The katabatic winds can remake the view before your eyes, and ancient glaciers lament loudly as they calve into the sea. But it can also be perfectly still, impossibly quiet, a dreamscape drenched in that eerie, eternal light of the austral summer. This is the Antarctica I discovered — one of the last places on Earth that remains largely untouched and untamed — during a recent Antarctica Discovery sailing on board World Navigator , from the startup luxury expedition cruise line Atlas Ocean Voyages.

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I spent the first days on board in what I can only describe as a sort of disbelieving stupor. We had been traveling for days, including a significant delay in Ushuaia, Argentina, that nearly upended the entire trip . (Traveling during the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic, particularly with the surge of the omicron variant, is not without risk. In fact, Atlas Ocean Voyages had to cancel its Jan. 6 Antarctica expedition.)

When we finally did board World Navigator late on Saturday evening, I fell almost immediately into a solid, dreamless sleep that clung to me for the following day and a half as we rocked along the Drake Passage.

We were lucky, I was told by members of the crew. It was so far one of the season's smoothest sailings on the Drake, where three seas converge to make one of the world's most violent bodies of water. As a result, we were making excellent time to what would be our first stop: Half Moon Island, a sickle-shaped spit of land in the South Shetland Islands that features dramatic rock formations and a rookery of chinstrap penguins that look, unquestionably, as though they're wearing miniature jockey helmets.

I was ecstatic, of course, but I also didn't have much in the way of concrete expectations. Like so many people, I thought I'd visit Antarctica after I retired — when I had an empty schedule and a full savings account, and when it was the final, necessary continent on my to-do list (in fact, I still have Australia and Africa left now).

Between October of 2019 and April of 2020, approximately 74,400 tourists visited Antarctica. It was a record year, to be sure, but Antarctica simply does not exist in the collective consciousness of travelers the way other destinations do. It's not as if you can simply travel there on a spontaneous weekend vacation.

To me, it seemed almost folkloric.

It certainly didn't feel like an actual place until I stood on a solid Antarctic island, my face whipped raw by the wind, with the pervasive smell of nesting penguins and marine life all around.

Even then, I hadn't technically reached continental Antarctica, just an island north of the Antarctic Peninsula. It wasn't until the following day, when the ship slid into the serene, snow globe-like embayment of Paradise Harbour, that I could finally say I'd made it to the continent of Antarctica itself.

That, I think, was when the reality of Antarctica truly hit me: When we saw a crabeater seal lounging merrily on an ice floe, watched penguins porpoise through the slushy sea ice and lost ourselves to childish whims during a snowball fight with thick fistfuls of pristine snow.

The voyage there

Traveling to Antarctica isn't forgiving or easy.

Most trips to Antarctica begin at the so-called End of the World in the small port city of Ushuaia, Argentina. Atlas Ocean Voyages sailings are mostly all-inclusive, and this particular trip began with a nonstop flight on a private chartered Airbus 330 from Orlando International Airport (MCO) in Florida to Ushuaia (USH). This significantly cut down on the amount of travel on either end of the trip, but it is still a long journey from New York City, complicated by Argentine travel requirements (at the time of my trip, a negative COVID-19 PCR test, proof of vaccination, mind-boggling paperwork and travel insurance that specifically covers COVID-19) and the cruise line's own precautions (a negative antigen test before boarding the charter flight and proof of vaccination).

Though there are trips to Antarctica that include a flight directly from the tip of Chile to the southernmost continent , I was here for the classic expedition: one that includes up to two days at sea each way on the infamous Drake Passage.

I envisioned myself as an intrepid explorer. Before the trip, I began reading "Endurance: Shackleton's Incredible Voyage," and Antarctica seemed to be a prize you earned rather than a destination you visited on vacation.

Everyone warned me about the rough seas, and even though I'm not prone to seasickness, I packed a small pharmacy in my suitcase (meclizine, ginger chews and plenty of lorazepam) just in case. I felt fine throughout the trip, though to be clear, we had a particularly easy crossing. For people who do find themselves turning green at sea, know that a rough sailing on the Drake could mean stomaching waves that frequently reach 20 to 40 feet in height for two whole days.

Chilling out

Although I felt pretty well prepared for the voyage (I'm not new to camping and hiking on below-freezing winter days or backpacking and climbing in somewhat extreme conditions), Antarctica was somehow more challenging than I expected.

Despite owning all the right gear long before this trip was booked, I still found myself chilled to the bone during some tours on the line's fleet of custom-built Zodiac boats.

I'm used to peeling off layers while climbing up mountains, not sitting, unmoving, for an hour or more on a small boat zipping around the harbor and stopping to watch penguins stumble ungracefully into the water.

One day, when the weather was exceptionally bad, icy salt water permeated even my best waterproof layers.

Sure, I had many relaxing moments on board World Navigator. There's the luxury spa by L'Occitane, the first of its kind at sea (I had an excellent massage that was like being masterfully pulled apart and remade in 90 minutes). There were cocktails, endless wine and live piano music after dinner in the upstairs Dome observation lounge, while cozy nooks all over the vessel practically demand that you curl up with a book and a cappuccino.

The rooms, too, were very comfortable; mine had a furnished balcony that is probably delightful when World Navigator repositions to warmer seas. The bathroom, particularly for a cruise ship, was impressive — I've said it before and I'll say it again , anyone who has ever tried to shave the back of their legs knows the luxury of an in-shower bench.

There were other luxuries, too. Although both breakfast and lunch were served buffet-style, you could also order pretty much anything you craved.

One morning, I requested poached eggs with a side of avocado, and even though I can assure you there are no avocado trees growing along the Antarctic Peninsula, slices of perfectly ripe avocado appeared before me nonetheless.

Dinners came with extensive menus inspired by global cuisines — Russian, Portuguese, Japanese and French, to name a few. If I can give you one piece of advice, it's this: Order the truffle fries.

And as you'd expect from a luxury cruise line, there's also very friendly, intuitive service. After ordering the same drink on more than one occasion, I was simply asked on future evenings if I wanted my usual.

Yes, I did, thank you very much.

But experiencing Antarctica itself is something altogether different. It is an expedition, and I found myself entirely spent at the end of every day.

Personally, this is the kind of travel I crave. If I'm not muddy, soggy and utterly exhausted at the end, I don't feel like I have anything to show for my adventure.

That's why when we had the opportunity to leap off the ship into the ice-filled waters off the coast of Pleneau Island, I couldn't say no.

People will tout the health benefits of cold-water dips, but I doubt there's really a point to a single polar plunge — you do it simply so you can say you did, so you can feel that rare thrill of knowing with absolute certainty that you are bold and fearless and very much alive. (The actual feeling is something between disbelief at yourself for volunteering for such a thing and the kind of cold that hurts like an elbow to the ribs.)

The itinerary, as it so often was, had to be shifted at the last minute, and suddenly I didn't have a whole day to mentally prepare myself for the plunge — it was simply time.

I donned my swimsuit, cozy Atlas Ocean Voyages bathrobe and slippers and went down to the mudroom. Vodka shots were poured and music was playing. When it was your turn, you were strapped into a sort of harness — presumably, so you could be dragged back to the vessel if you suddenly forgot how to swim or slipped into shock.

I was very nearly in the latter category. I was so fixated on how cold it would be that I swallowed a huge mouthful of saltwater when I jumped in. Back on board, when cruisers anticipating their own jump asked me how it was, all I could sputter out was "salty."

How was it? The water was 29 degrees Fahrenheit. What do you think?

Would I do it again? Just point me to where I jump.

Waiting for penguins

OK, if I'm being honest, there was one thing I expected from my trip to Antarctica: penguins. Like everything else on this continent, they left me more or less speechless.

You're supposed to stay at least 5 meters (about 15 feet) away, but you'd often turn to find a penguin waddling in your direction.

More often than not, I'd simply drop to my knees to watch penguins doing penguin things, so the internet is now full of photos of me staring, gape-mouthed and grinning, at a penguin carrying a pebble in its beak as a token of affection; playfully chasing another penguin; or walking, stumbling, tripping and ultimately tobogganing down a snowy slope.

Most of these sightings took place when conditions were favorable and we were able to leave World Navigator and take a Zodiac to shore for a proper landing.

Other times, when this wasn't possible, we could still usually go on a Zodiac cruise to see wildlife and the dramatic Antarctic landscape from the water with a member of the expedition team. Their expertise included everything from kayaking and paddling to photography, mountaineering, history, geology, ornithology and marine biology. In addition to leading excursions, the team would also take turns hosting onboard lectures. On and off the ship we were regaled with tales of triumphant (and tragic) Antarctic expeditions, unexpected seabird facts and recollections of past adventures.

During our trip, we saw colonies of gentoo and chinstrap penguins as well as Adelie penguins and a number of other seabirds: black-browed albatross, skua and snowy sheathbills, which are also known as "poop chickens," an objectively perfect nickname.

On one particular Zodiac cruise, our expedition guide found a leopard seal swimming in the water. It observed our boat with curiosity before opting to chase a group of frenzied penguins.

Humpback whales made frequent appearances alongside the cruise ship and while we were out on Zodiac tours, and it was not uncommon for an entire room of people to get up and press their faces against a window or brave the wind for a better look from the deck.

We didn't see orcas, or killer whales, on our sailing. Nor did we see emperor or king penguins, which you'd typically only see on itineraries to other Antarctic and sub-Antarctic regions. And no, there are no polar bears in Antarctica.

Go with the flow

You can't really know what to expect on a trip to Antarctica. There may be a rough outline — a suggestion for the itinerary that might take shape — but depending on the weather, this plan can change multiple times in a single day. It's a trip that requires patience and flexibility, even when everything is going according to plan (or intentional lack of one).

The itinerary for this particular voyage originally included three days of "Captain's Choice" ports of call along the Antarctic Peninsula such as Danco Island, Neko Harbor and Cuverville Island.

You couldn't plan any part of the day in advance, which could be both blissfully freeing or immensely frustrating.

It was not uncommon to wake up expecting to go kayaking around an iceberg-filled bay only to find that even a landing wasn't possible. In a single day on our sailing, the landing sites could easily change two or three times.

Years ago, I saw punk rock frontman Henry Rollins during one of his spoken word tours, during which he talked at length about his trip to Antarctica. I remember him describing the stench of the penguins ("They're covered in their own droppings and the droppings of their friends. It's very pungent," he told The Guardian in 2016 ) and the visceral experience he had while camping.

So, when I found out camping was an option in Antarctica, I was elated. (I. Love. Sleeping. Outside.)

But because of weather and other circumstances, only one group had the opportunity to paddle and kayak during our Antarctica sailing, and camping overnight was scrapped from the playbook altogether.

Becoming an ambassador

As a writer, I sometimes find I get lost in the poetry of a string of words. But as a journalist, it's my responsibility to seek out the truth — to experience the world firsthand and share what I've discovered.

Maybe that's the real reason I've found myself so confounded by Antarctica. Its very existence defies logic.

It is a desert covered in prehistoric ice, where my first steps on the continent were blurred by heavy snowfall.

It is a place dislodged from time itself. There is no official time zone in Antarctica, and all the lines of longitude that segment the planet intersect at the South Pole at a point that, you could argue, is every hour on Earth happening instantaneously.

In the summer, the sun never sets — a surreal and seriously disorienting phenomenon that contributed to my overall sense of becoming increasingly unmoored as the days went on. I'd find myself engrossed in an after-dinner conversation only to realize it was nearly time for breakfast.

And it is a place that does not belong to any one person or nation.

But they do say that visiting makes you an Antarctic Ambassador : a person who, among other things, "educates others by sharing their Antarctic experiences."

My experience was deeply profound. Although I can say that I've been there — that I have traveled beyond the end of the world to some primordial snowscape — I do not believe Antarctica is truly knowable.

After all, approximately 98% of the continent is covered in ice.

Antarctica is a destination that demands absolute adaptability, not just from the few animals and plants that have evolved to survive the seemingly uninhabitable climate but also from the people who, for science or tourism, are willing to surrender any semblance of control. Because, beyond the wonder of the wildlife sightings, the humbling grandeur of the land and seascapes, and the ineffable sensation of timelessness you experience on a journey to the bottom of the world, it is that very sense of surrender that makes the journey to Antarctica so singular.

Personally? I've never felt more free.

Antarctica Cruises

Book early for 2025 and 2026 sailings to Antarctica and save up to 40% with the HX Price Promise*.

Go with the global leader in expeditions to Antarctica

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

20 years and counting

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

Explore Antarctica in 2025/2026 on our small, well-equipped, hybrid expedition ships, where safety and sustainability come first. PLUS with our Price Promise, if you find the same cabin available for a lower price after you've booked, let us know and we'll give you back the difference.

Meet the locals

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

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

Exploring Antarctica

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

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

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

A symphony of ice and sky

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

Cruises to Antarctica

In-depth Antarctica & Patagonia Expedition | Southbound

Departure date

Price from $25,188

Antarctica & Patagonia Expedition | Southbound

Departure Dates

Oct 21, 24, Nov 1, 24

Price from $17,653

MS Roald Amundsen +1

MS Roald Amundsen MS Fridtjof Nansen

Antarctica & Falkland Expedition

Nov 6, 24, Nov 20, 24 + 4 more departures

Price from $15,480

MS Roald Amundsen

Adventure is All-Inclusive

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

Active exploration

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

Activities in Antarctica

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

Snowshoeing

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

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

Camping | Amundsen Night

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

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

Wildlife on ice

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

Wildlife in Antarctica

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

Where science and learning meet nature

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

Your Antarctica Expedition Team

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

Expedition Ships | The perfect balance

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

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

MS Fridtjof Nansen

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

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

Make a difference

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

Stories from Antarctica

Expedition Travel Guide to Antarctica

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

15 Interesting Facts About Antarctica

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

Seven Incredible Drake Passage Facts

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

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

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La péninsule Antarctique regroupe toutes les merveilles du Continent Blanc. Icebergs majestueux, banquise immaculée, îles et reliefs dont les noms rappellent les expéditions des grands explorateurs , manchots, phoques, baleines et oiseaux marins : offrez-vous une croisière en péninsule Antarctique et abordez ce territoire mythique guidé par nos guides-naturalistes passionnés.

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Les Incontournables

Approcher le grand Sud et le cercle polaire Antarctique, voguer sur l’océan Austral à la découverte d’une faune emblématique et d’icebergs monumentaux… Partir en croisière en Antarctique, c’est embarquer pour l’aventure d’une vie. Une aventure faite de moments purement magiques. Voici cinq temps forts qui participent au charme d’un voyage en péninsule Antarctique.

L'Essentiel de la péninsule Antarctique

Explorez la péninsule Antarctique

Antarctique : le voyage de toute une vie

Pingouin VS Manchot : le match

Facteur à Port Lockroy

Les Incontournables de la péninsule Antarctique

Approcher le grand Sud et le cercle polaire Antarctique , voguer sur l’océan Austral à la découverte d’une faune emblématique et d’icebergs monumentaux… Partir en croisière en Antarctique , c’est embarquer pour l’aventure d’une vie. Une aventure faite de moments purement magiques. Voici cinq temps forts qui participent au charme d’un voyage en péninsule Antarctique.

Naviguer sur des eaux mythiques

Situé dans les cinquantièmes hurlants, sous le 50° parallèle Sud, le passage de Drake fait partie des espaces de navigation les plus mouvementés de la planète, comme le suggère le dicton marin : « Sous 40°, il n’y a plus de lois, mais sous 50°, il n’y a plus de Dieu ». En le parcourant dans des conditions parfois critiques, les explorateurs du début du XXe siècle comme Sir Ernest Shackleton y ont écrit les pages les plus chevaleresques de l’histoire de l’Antarctique. Au bout de la traversée, le Continent Blanc reste la plus belle des récompenses.

Observer une faune diverse

Une croisière en Antarctique est ponctuée d’instants suspendus. L’apparition d’une baleine à bosse ou d’orques marque le point d’orgue d’un séjour à travers les eaux du bout du monde. Quand leur ballet aquatique s’accompagne de la danse aérienne des pétrels du Cap et des cormorans, le spectacle est total. Otaries à fourrures, phoques léopards, phoques de Weddell et éléphants de mer ajoutent au décor une touche supplémentaire de féérie. Elle prend enfin toute son ampleur avec la rencontre des manchots comme sur certaines îles où nichent d’immenses colonies de manchots à jugulaire.

Admirer les majestueux icebergs

Croiser les impressionnants icebergs de l’océan Austral figure parmi les moments mémorables d’une croisière en Antarctique. Dans la mer de Weddell, les icebergs tabulaires, de formes parfaitement carrées ou rectangulaires, déroutent le voyageur. Tels des mirages, ils dérivent dans un silence total qui confère au décor une aura surréaliste. Ils peuvent prendre des formes dentelées et se teintent parfois de nuances de bleu et de vert surnaturelles. Poussés par les courants, les géants des mers viennent flotter là, inlassablement. Certains se tordent, forment des arches ou des crêtes puissantes, s’élèvent à des hauteurs vertigineuses. Tous plongent dans l’eau turquoise, se reflètent sur la mer d’huile, scintillent au soleil et offrent un panorama des plus poétiques.

Approcher du lieu le plus insolite de la péninsule

Sur la minuscule île Goudier, Port Lockroy constitue le lieu le plus curieux de la péninsule Antarctique. Ancienne base britannique bâtie durant la Seconde Guerre mondiale, elle est depuis devenue un musée et… le bureau de Poste le plus austral de la planète, au milieu des manchots. Quatre intrépides gèrent ainsi le courrier posté par les visiteurs durant leur étape sur l’île. Une façon de partager leur voyage en Antarctique avec leurs proches aux quatre coins du monde.

Se passionner pour l’histoire de l’Antarctique

Sur certaines îles, les plages volcaniques de sable noir sont parsemées de vieilles cabanes délabrées. Elles ont jadis accueilli les hommes appâtés par le gain de l’industrie baleinière. En Géorgie du Sud , les vestiges des stations baleinières rappellent un passé durant lequel la chasse a décimé les populations de grands cétacés menant quasiment à leur extinction. Ils nous interpellent sur leur préservation nécessaire encore aujourd’hui.

Dans notre imaginaire, les Grands Lacs américains ouvrent à des espaces infinis. De fait, les vastes forêts de conifères se patinent de teintes dorées lors de l’été indien, les immenses lacs se découpent en îles verdoyantes et en baies aux eaux turquoise, les rivières se décuplent en cascades… Avant de partir sur ces terres de légendes, voici quelques informations utiles .

• Approche exploratoire de l'île Charcot (Antarctique)
• Baie Marguerite (Antarctique)
• Buenos Aires (Argentine)
• En mer à bord du Commandant Charcot
• Exploration de la Terre de Marie Byrd (Antarctique)
• Exploration de la mer de Ross (Antarctique)
• Exploration de la mer de Weddell (Antarctique)
• Grave Cove (Îles Falkland)
• Géorgie du Sud (Géorgie du Sud )
• Hobart, Tasmanie (Australie)
• Mer d'Amundsen (Antarctique)
• Mer de Bellingshausen (Antarctique)
• Navigation en mer de Weddell (Antarctique)
• New Island (Îles Falkland)
• Nord de la péninsule Antarctique (Antarctique)
• Port Stanley (Îles Falkland)
• Puerto Madryn (Argentine)
• Péninsule Antarctique (Antarctique)
• The Gullet (Antarctique)
• Traversée de la ligne de changement de date
• Traversée du cercle polaire Antarctique
• Traversée du passage de Drake
• Ushuaia (Argentine)
• Volunteer Point (Îles Falkland)
• Île Macquarie (Australie)
• Île Pourquoi-pas (Antarctique)
• Îles Balleny (Antarctique)
• Îles Orcades du Sud (Antarctique)

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A legendary land with a history of attracting the great explorers, the White Continent continues to exert a strong fascination today.

Embark for an Antarctic expedition cruise and sail along the continent's incredible coasts, admire its unique wildlife — from king penguins to whales — and navigate through immaculate white scenery , where icebergs glimmer and shine in an explosion of blues, from turquoise to the darkest of tones.

All about cruises Antarctica

The Southern Adventure

The great adventure

Expedition to Southern Lands

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Emblematic Antarctica

Expedition to New Zealand’s Subantarctic Islands

The Great Austral Loop

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Our cruises Antarctica

The sub antarctic islands, antarctic peninsula, falkland islands, south georgia, south orkney islands, antarctic polar circle, antarctica's extreme south, reasons to visit antarctica.

A trip to Antarctica is the ultimate travel goal. These ends-of-the-Earth lands are tough to access and offer constant changes in scenery. Here are five reasons to set off on an Antarctic cruise.

Antarctica's unmissable sights

The White Continent is a dream destination for any explorer at heart, and travellers certainly won't be disappointed when they see it in all its splendour. Here are five highlights to experience during an Antarctic cruise.

Explore Antarctica

When to visit Antarctica?

10 things you didn’t know about Antarctica

The Arctic vs Antarctica: 5 differences between these two frozen lands

5 reasons to visit Antarctica

Treat yourself to a unique adventure

Far from major tourist routes, Antarctica remains one of the few preserved areas on the planet. Tourism is regulated. Vessels departing for the White Continent do not carry more than 200 passengers at a time. It's an opportunity for everyone to enjoy an extraordinary experience and to create unforgettable memories.

Witness exceptional wildlife

A true sanctuary for wildlife, Antarctica is home to a diversity of marine mammals and birds that have come ashore to breed. In the water, Weddell seals, Minke whales, humpback whales, sea leopards, and subantarctic fur seals put on an enchanting show for travellers. Both on the ground and in the air, king penguins, gentoos, southern rockhoppers, and chinstraps, along with albatrosses and petrels, jump and frolic to complete the show.

Move through incredible scenery

Blue icebergs, sparkling towers of ice, an immaculate ice floe, imposing mountain ranges and thousand-year-old glaciers serve as backdrops to these dreamy views. Here, you'll be dazzled by shades of white, blue, grey, and sometimes purple. Sunsets give the ice a fiery glow. The sheer vastness of the setting and the 'noise' of the elements evoke moments of pure emotion.

Follow in the footsteps of the greatest explorers!

Even if Antarctica remains very enigmatic today, think about what it must have been like more than a century ago. British explorer James Cook ventured there as early as 1773. Adventurers followed in their droves. From Captain Charcot to Sir Ernest Shackleton, or Roald Amundsen, who was the first to reach the South Pole, or, more recently, Paul-Émile Victor, these men have tried to unravel the mysteries of the ice floe.

Visit historical sites and scientific bases

Even today, the White Continent keeps some of its secrets for itself. Scientific bases have been set up there to carry out research, particularly relating to climate. Former whaling stations, veritable open-air museums, bear witness to the ravages of the seal and whale hunting that took place at the beginning of the 20th century. Port Lockroy is home to the southernmost post office in the world, from which you can send your loved ones a postcard featuring the Antarctic stamp.

As you can see, there are so many reasons to embark on this unique adventure to a continent that's like no other.

Mingle within a penguin colony in South Georgia

Once a major whaling station, South Georgia is now a favourite spot for many seabirds. Among them, the king penguin is a happy resident. If you're lucky enough to stop off at Salisbury Plain , you'll enjoy a unique experience in the middle of a colony of no fewer than 250,000 penguins. They move around happily without regard for the few human beings who come to visit them. A unique and touching moment.

• Crossing the Antarctic Circle

What does it mean when the navigational instruments show the fateful numbers '66°33'? You're in the middle of Antarctica , beyond the 66 th parallel ! First crossed by the British explorer James Cook in 1773, it's an integral part of the history of Antarctica. Travellers will feel a true sense of accomplishment and joy as they follow in the footsteps of the great explorers .

Get up close to a majestic marine fauna

From the Falkland Islands to the Antarctic Peninsula, Antarctic cruises are an opportunity for unforgettable encounters with marine mammals. It's not uncommon to encounter many seals, including subantarctic fur seals and elephant seals, as well as killer whales. When the humpback whales arrive, it truly is the icing on the cake.

Behold the great icebergs

Be they tabular, blocky or pinnacled, icebergs all have a tendency to leave travellers speechless. These giants of the seas are indescribable! As majestic as they are worrying, their silhouettes rise up with the waves and plunge deep into the waters with a colourful blend of thousand shades of blue, from light turquoise to the darkest navy, all sparkling under the icy sun of Antarctica.

Visit a unique natural sanctuary

Little known and completely preserved, New Zealand's subantarctic islands are among the last remaining areas completely unspoilt by human presence on the planet. Some of these little pieces of land dotted around the ocean are inaccessible and therefore totally protected from human activity. The Snares Islands, Bounty Islands, Antipodes Islands, Auckland Islands and Campbell Islands thus represent an invaluable haven of peace for the endemic species that inhabit them, including 126 bird species.

• Adélie Land (Antarctica)
• Amundsen Sea (Antarctica)
• Antarctic Peninsula (Antarctica)
• Antipodes Islands (New Zealand)
• At sea aboard Le Commandant Charcot
• Balleny Islands (Antarctica)
• Barren Island (Falkland Islands)
• Bellingshausen Sea (Antarctica)
• Bleaker Island (Falkland Islands)
• Buenos Aires (Argentina)
• Camarones (Argentina)
• Campbell Island (New Zealand)
• Cape Town (South Africa)
• Carcass Island (Falkland Islands)
• Crossing the Drake Passage
• Crossing the International Date Line
• Doubtful Sound (New Zealand)
• Dunedin (New Zealand)
• Dusky Sound (New Zealand)
• Enderby Island, Auckland Islands (New Zealand)
• Expedition to Charcot Island (Antarctica)
• French Southern and Antarctic Lands (Antarctica)
• Grave Cove (Falkland Islands)
• Hobart, Tasmania (Australia)
• Macquarie Island (Australia)
• Magnetic South Pole
• Marguerite Bay (Antarctica)
• Marie Byrd Land exploration (Antarctica)
• Milford Sound (New Zealand)
• Musgrave Inlet, Auckland Islands (New Zealand)
• New Island (Falkland Islands)
• North Antarctic Peninsula (Antarctica)
• Port Stanley (Falkland Islands)
• Pourquoi Pas Island (Antarctica)
• Puerto Madryn (Argentina)
• Queen Mary Land (Antarctica)
• Ross Sea Region (Antarctica)
• Sailing along Isla de los Estados (Argentina)
• Sailing along Shackleton Ice Shelf (Antarctica)
• Sailing around Cape Horn (Chile)
• Sailing in the Falkland Sound (Falkland Islands)
• Sailing on the Weddell Sea (Antarctica)
• South Georgia (South Georgia)
• South Orkney Islands (Antarctica)
• Steeple Jason Island (Falkland Islands)
• The Gullet (Antarctica)
• The Neck, Saunders Island (Falkland Islands)
• The Ross Sea exploration (Antarctica)
• The Snares (New Zealand)
• The Weddell Sea exploration (Antarctica)
• Ulva Island (New Zealand)
• Ushuaia (Argentina)
• Volunteer Point (Falkland Islands)
• West Point Island (Falkland Islands)
• Wilkes Land (Antarctica)

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Croisière Antarctique - Argentine Mission polaire : l'Antarctique

• Voyage d'exception
• Grands espaces
• Bout du Monde

Circuit Antarctique - Argentine : Mission polaire : l'Antarctique

Naufragé volontaire sur ce morceau de terre vierge, submergé par la beauté, la pureté et la sérénité de cet environnement d’une extrême fragilité, on se sent bien, infiniment vivant... Voilà ce que vous pourrez consigner dans votre journal de bord entre Ushuaia et la péninsule Antarctique alors que face à vous, les baleines, phoques, manchots et otaries se disputent leur nourriture ou plongent dans l’immensité des flots.

• Profitez d’un itinéraire adapté à une première découverte de l’Antarctique
• Contemplez les paysages époustouflants de la Péninsule Antarctique
• Approchez les manchots, baleines et phoques dans leur environnement naturel
• Visitez Ushuaïa, la mythique Terre de Feu

Transfert entre l'aéroport d'Ushuaïa et l'hôtel. Si l’envie vous en dit, suivez le fil de l’eau jusque dans le Parc national de la Terre de Feu. Les belles forêts australes, montagnes escarpées, criques rocheuses, immenses tourbières et plages sauvages du site y remplacent les océans de glace des jours prochains. À la fin du deuxième jour, transfert entre l'hôtel et le port d'Ushuaïa pour l’embarquement sur l’Ocean Diamond.

Traversée du Passage de Drake

Combien de grands navigateurs se sont, comme vous, réveillés dans le Passage de Drake, ce bras de mer où convergent les courants. Sereine ou tumultueuse, la traversée y est des plus imprévisibles. En revanche, ce qui est certain, c’est qu’elle vous offre les premiers frissons de ce périple avec la vue de premiers albatros et goélands, de premières baleines à bec et otaries à fourrure !

Iles Shetland du Sud Cercle polaire Antarctique Péninsule antarctique

D’étroites baies glaciaires parsemées d’icebergs, des manchots piquant une tête dans l’océan ou nourrissant leurs petits et ces morceaux de terres vierges d’un blanc immaculé qui flottent dans l’immensité… Vous y êtes ! L’Antarctique ! Un zodiac vous emmènera au plus près de cette nature solitaire et fragile, les phoques et baleines à bosse frayant au large. Et puis, il y a ces instants où vous accosterez sur le continent blanc. Les pas crissent sur les sentiers enneigés, brisant le silence. Vous aurez le choix entre rester posés sur les crêtes à contempler et photographier le spectacle environnant ou encore partir en randonnée à la découverte d’horizons secrets exceptionnels de ces îles rarement explorées par l’Homme.

Recroisez le Passage de Drake, fiers et heureux d’avoir accompli cette insolite croisière d’exploration du 7° continent. Sur le navire, l’équipe de bord dispense de nombreuses animations et conférences. Mais, libre à vous de laisser votre regard se noyer dans le bleu acier de ces eaux aux vagues teintées par la lumière rosée et dorée du Grand Nord.

Débarquement à Ushuaïa. Transfert à l’aéroport.

Mission polaire : l'Antarctique

Ocean Diamond

Pour braver les vastes étendues menant au 7° continent, il ne faut pas moins que l’Ocean Diamond. Ce navire est à la pointe de l’équipement nautique. Avec sa coque renforcée contre la glace et ses zodiacs prévus pour les excursions dans la Péninsule Antarctique, l’Ocean Diamond est taillé pour l’expédition en zone polaire. Pour autant, ce luxueux bateau n’en oublie pas le confort de ses passagers. À l’intérieur du navire, vous pourrez ainsi trouver plusieurs salons spacieux, un restaurant mais aussi tout un espace loisirs, luxe insoupçonné d’une croisière Antarctique avec auditorium, bibliothèque, salle de sport… Des prestations jusqu’au personnel de qualité, tout est fait pour parfaire la vie à bord des 189 passagers. Lorsque vous ne serez pas en train de contempler le paysage depuis le pont ou la passerelle, vous apprécierez l’intérieur contemporain des cabines. La vôtre est équipée d’une salle d’eau privée, d’un téléviseur et d’un lit double ou de deux lits jumeaux.

nos prix comprennent

• Le transfert entre l'aéroport d'Ushuaïa et l'hôtel
• 1 nuit d'hôtel à Ushuaïa sur la base d'une chambre double le jour de l'arrivée, petit déjeuner inclus
• Le transfert entre l'hôtel et le port d'Ushuaïa le jour de l'embarquement
• L'hébergement à bord en cabine occupation double Explorer Suite
• Tous les repas, collations, boissons non alcoolisées, jus de fruit et boissons chaudes à bord
• La bière et le vin durant les dîners à bord
• Toutes les sorties en en Zodiac et excursions incluses dans le programme quotidien
• Les conférences données par notre équipe d'expédition et autres intervenants en fonction du programme en anglais
• Une parka officielle Quark Expeditions® offerte
• Une paire de bottes étanches qui vous sera prêtée pour les débarquements
• Une bouteille d'eau réutilisable offerte
• Un journal photographique qui retrace l'expédition
• Les diverses taxes de service et frais portuaires tout au long du programme
• La gestion des bagages à bord du navire
• Un sèche-cheveux et des peignoirs dans chaque cabine
• La prise en charge et l'organisation des évènements tout au long du voyage par notre chef d'expédition expérimenté
• Le transfert entre le port et l'aéroport d'Ushuaïa le jour du débarquement.

nos prix ne comprennent pas

• Les prestations non mentionnées dans nos prix comprennent
• Les boissons, pourboires et dépenses personnelles
• Les assurances Annulation, Interruption de séjour, Responsabilité civile individuelle et Multirisques bagages que nous vous proposons lors de votre réservation
• La taxe de séjour à régler sur place (auprès des hôteliers)
• Les vols internationaux ou vols intérieurs
• La nuit d’hôtel à destination après le jour du débarquement du bateau
• Toutes activités optionnelles non mentionnées dans les prestations incluses
• Les consultations médicales, le coût des médicaments délivrés à bord (pas de prise en charge par la sécurité sociale)
• Le pré et post acheminement de votre résidence à la ville de départ

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• 9-Night Ushuaia Roundtrip 10.30.24
• 11-Night Ushuaia Roundtrip 11.8.24
• 9-Night Ushuaia Roundtrip 11.13.24
• 9-Night Ushuaia Roundtrip 11.19.24
• 13-Night Ushuaia Roundtrip 11.22.24
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• 11-Night Ushuaia Roundtrip 12.9.24
• 11-Night Ushuaia Roundtrip 1.5.25
• 9-Night Ushuaia Roundtrip 1.6.25
• 11-Night Ushuaia Roundtrip 1.9.25
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• 18-Night Ushuaia Roundtrip 1.16.25
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• 11-Night Ushuaia Roundtrip 2.3.25
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• 10-Night Ushuaia Roundtrip 1.5.26
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• 11-Night Ushuaia Roundtrip 1.25.26
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• View Antarctica
• 7-Night Tromso to Longyearbyen 6.21.24
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• 12-Night Reykjavik to Longyearbyen 8.25.24
• 11-Night Kangerlussuaq to Reykjavik 9.1.24
• 9-Night Longyearbyen to Reykjavik 9.6.24
• 24-Night Edinburgh To Longyearbyen 6.17.25
• 12-Night Trondheim to Longyearbyen 06.29.25
• 9-Night Longyearbyen Roundtrip 7.11.25
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• 18-Night Copenhagen To Longyearbyen 8.8.25
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• 8-Night Reykjavík To Dublin 09.14.25
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• View Mediterranean
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Seek Antarctica

Become immersed in one of the most remote regions of the world. As your Captains expertly navigate amid the icebergs, glaciers and ice floes, they bring you up close and personal to incredible wildlife and otherworldly landscapes. Conquer the Drake Passage and find a moment of reverence in the pristine environment of Antarctica.

Go where few have gone on an expedition to Antarctica. Experience deeper connections with fellow explorers and the environment in this remarkable destination. Choose from our expeditions below, including aboard World Voyager ™ , our newest yacht embarking on her inaugural season in November 2023.

Antarctica Expeditions

Get To Know The Region

FREE Punta Arenas Immersion

A true taste of chile pre-expedition free cultural immersion.

FREE Tierra del Fuego National Park Immersion

Exploring tierra del fuego national park pre-expedition free cultural immersion.

Journey through Tierra del Fuego’s natural beauty from the comfort of a coach. Along the way you may see some of the extraordinary wildlife that has made the region home. From the Magellanic woodpeckers of the forests to the penguin colony of Martillo Island, Tierra del Fuego National Park offers nature lovers a delightful slice of Patagonia wildlife. The region is home to at least 50 bird species, including the austral parakeet and Andean condor. Eagles can sometimes be seen soaring over the Beagle Channel. Mammals such as the guanaco, red foxes, muskrat and even small South American camel have been seen wandering the landscapes of the park.

If you find yourself with free time, you can follow one of the many hiking trails found throughout the park that cater to all levels of adventurers, including the shorter Sendero Paseo de la Isla Trail to a more advanced hike at the Cerro Guanaco Trail. Whichever route you may choose to take, each offers its own breathtaking views of natural wonders.

HIKING  – Follow the Hito XXIV Trail along the shores of Lago Roca, reaching Milestone 24 demarking where Argentina and Chile meet. Or take the shorter path of Sendero Paseo de la Isla Trail around the small fjord of Lapataia Bay, abundant in geese, diving petrels, ducks and black-browed albatrosses. Senda Costera (the Coastal Path) is another hiking option that takes you through scenic views of the Beagle Channel, first discovered on an expedition that included the famous naturalist Charles Darwin. For more advanced hikers, the Cerro Guanaco Trail is the longest in the park and offers a challenging but rewarding path, ending on a panoramic view of the Beagle Channel and Darwin Mountains.

THE END OF THE WORLD TRAIN – Standing as the world’s southernmost functioning railway line, the End of the World Train (El Tren del Fin del Mundo) is one of the most unique ways to journey through Tierra del Fuego’s natural beauty. It’s also one of the best ways to engage with Ushuaia’s history, as it is the former transport for inmates being taken to a remote island turned penal colony in the early 20th century. Transporting you through the Pico Valley, you’ll make stops along the way at Cascada de la Macarena station – where you learn about the indigenous Yámana people and see wondrous waterfalls – into mountains and subpolar forests. The train ride also runs through awe- inspiring sights like Puente Quemado (the Burned Bridge) and Laguna Negra (the Black Lagoon) near the peat bog.

PATAGONIA WILDLIFE  – From the Magellanic woodpeckers of the forests to the penguin colony of Martillo Island, Tierra del Fuego National Park offers nature lovers a delightful slice of Patagonia wildlife. The region is home to at least 50 bird species, including the austral parakeet and Andean condor. Eagles can sometimes be seen soaring over the Beagle Channel. Mammals such as the guanaco, red foxes, muskrat and even small South American camel have been seen wandering the landscapes of the park.

Antarctic Circle Crossing

Antarctic peninsula, falkland islands, south georgia and the south sandwich islands, south shetland islands, our partner.

Become an ORCA Scientist

Join us in partnership with ORCA as a Citizen Scientist aboard our 2023/2024 Antarctica expeditions on World Navigator ®. ORCA is a whale and dolphin conservation charity that works around the world with the mission of protecting the ocean through this special and exciting program.

Together with your fellow explorers and guided by an ORCA Ocean Conservationist, engage in hands-on workshops to gather scientific data that contribute to conservation and marine life protection efforts. Throughout your Antarctic journey, you will become a Citizen Scientist with the following program:

• Using ORCA’s OceanWatchers app, record environmental and sightings information to help discover how these wondrous creatures behave and move through the oceans.
• Learn how to take photos of whales and dolphins and use those pictures to identify individual cetaceans.
• Enjoy a range of enriching lectures, workshops and interactive classes hosted by your knowledgeable Ocean Conservationist, giving you a greater understanding of the importance of ocean conservation.

As your team of explorers help with ORCA’s work and research, you’re invited to deepen your connection with incredible marine animals, enhancing your appreciation for the beauty of the polar regions.

To Book, Call your Preferred Travel Advisor or our Voyage Specialists at 1.844.44.ATLAS (28527)  

• FREE cultural immersion
• FREE gourmet dining with ever-changing menus
• FREE unlimited beverages, including fine wines, spirits and craft beers
• FREE open bars and lounges, including 24-hour bar service with specialty canapés
• FREE stocked in-room minibar
• FREE specialty coffees, teas and fresh-pressed juices
• FREE afternoon and high tea
• FREE champagne and gourmet canapés during meet and greet
• FREE 24-hour room service, including spirits, wine and beer
• FREE L'OCCITANE bath amenities
• FREE pre-paid gratuities
• FREE use of walking sticks and binoculars
• FREE reusable water bottle
• FREE butler service and expanded room service menu in suites

Exclusively on Polar Expeditions

• FREE private charter jet service*
• FREE enrichment lectures and destination briefings
• FREE shore landings led by expert field guides
• FREE escorted sightseeing safaris by Zodiac
• FREE polar plunge
• FREE Atlas Ocean Voyages parka and vest
• FREE use of knee boots
• FREE private group transfers between airport and yacht*
• FREE 1-night pre-cruise hotel stay on all Antarctica expeditions
• FREE 1-night post-cruise hotel stay on select Antarctica expeditions

Exclusively on Epicurean Expeditions

• FREE cultural immersion includes culinary experience ashore, such as local market visits, specialty tastings and more
• FREE Josper Grill Dining Experience at 7AFT Grill
• FREE culinary presentations and wine tastings
• FREE cooking demonstrations and cuisine tastings
• FREE events hosted by a Tastes & Traditions Expert on select expeditions
• FREE Atlas Ocean Voyages backpack

Exclusively on Cultural Expeditions

• FREE enrichment programs and workshops on select expeditions
• FREE authentic, local experiences and on board events on select expeditions

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Etna)  (1) Zakynthos, Greece  (2) Katakolon (Olympia), Greece  (3) Puerto Banus (Marbella), Spain  (2) Trapani (Sicily), Italy  (3) Patmos, Greece  (1) Corinth Canal Transit  (4) Itea (Delphi), Greece  (3) Naples (Pompeii), Italy  (2) Livorno (Florence/Pisa), Italy  (9) Marseilles (Aix-en-Provence), France  (5) Valencia, Spain  (1) Rio de Janeiro, Brazil  (2) Funchal (Madeira), Portugal  (3) Santa Cruz, Tenerife, Canary Islands  (4) Recife, Brazil  (1) Ilhabela, Brazil  (1) Punta del Este, Uruguay  (3) Montevideo, Uruguay  (4) Ushuaia, Argentina  (68) Buenos Aires, Argentina  (4) Port Stanley, Falkland Islands - Captain’s Choice  (8) Puerto Madryn, Argentina  (1) Exploring South Georgia & the South Sandwich Islands - Captain’s Choice  (7) Exploring the South Shetland Islands - Captain’s Choice, Antarctica  (64) Bridgetown, Barbados  (5) Mayreau, St. Vincent and the Grenadines  (1) Kusadasi (Ephesus), Turkey  (1) Itajai/Florianopolis, Brazil  (1) Drake Passage Navigation  (64) Crossing the Antarctic Circle - Captain’s Choice  (30) Santorini, Greece  (2) Praia (Santiago), Cape Verde  (2) Arrecife (Lanzarote), Canary Islands  (5) Casablanca, Morocco  (9) Portimão, Portugal  (10) Sagres, Portugal  (2) Seville, Spain  (6) Ibiza, Spain  (5) Saint Tropez, France  (1) Monte Carlo, Monaco  (3) Sorrento (Pompeii), Italy  (1) Porto-Vecchio (Corsica), France  (2) Cannes, France  (1) Sete (Montpellier), France  (3) Cadiz, Spain  (3) Leixoes (Porto), Portugal  (10) La Coruña, Spain  (8) Bordeaux, France  (10) St. Peter Port,( Guernsey) Channel Islands  (9) London (Tower Bridge), England  (10) St Mary’s (Isles of Scilly), England  (4) Cork (Cobh), Ireland  (5) Galway, Ireland  (2) Killybegs, Ireland  (2) Londonderry, Northern Ireland  (2) Belfast, Northen Ireland  (7) Dublin, Ireland  (13) Lerwick (Shetland Islands), Scotland  (3) Glasgow (Greenock), Scotland  (3) Fort William (Loch Ness), Scotland  (2) Stornoway (Isles of Lewis), Scotland  (5) Bergen, Norway  (8) Flåm, Norway  (8) Olden, Norway  (1) Geiranger, Norway  (7) Kristiansund, Norway  (1) Trondheim, Norway  (5) Leknes (Lofoten Islands), Norway  (4) Arctic Circle Crossing  (3) Tromsø, Norway  (8) Longyearbyen (Svalbard), Norway  (14) Ny-Ålesund (Svalbard), Norway  (10) Ittoqqortoormiit, Greenland  (3) Isafjörður, Iceland  (9) Reykjavik, Iceland  (9) Heimaey (Vestmannaeyjar), Iceland  (7) Tórshavn (Faroe Islands), Denmark  (6) Kirkwall (Orkney Islands), Scotland  (2) Invergordon (Loch Ness), Scotland  (2) Leith (Edinburgh), Scotland  (5) Douglas, Isle of Man  (7) Liverpool, England  (1) Riga, Latvia  (1) Tallinn, Estonia  (1) Helsinki, Finland  (1) Stockholm, Sweden  (1) Gdansk, Poland  (1) Ijmuiden (Amsterdam), The Netherlands  (5) Honfleur (Paris/Normandy), France  (8) St. Malo, France  (6) Le Palais, Belle Isle, France  (2) Punta Arenas, Chile - Captain’s Choice  (1) Hydra, Greece  (1) Nafplion (Mycenae/Epidaurus), Greece  (3) Cassis (Aix-En-Provence), France  (1) Nice, France  (13) Gustavia, St. Barts  (4) Ceuta, Spain  (1) Corfu, Greece  (3) Dubrovnik (Old Town), Croatia  (7) Las Palmas (Gran Canaria), Canary Islands, Spain  (8) Hvar Island, Croatia  (4) Kotor, Montenegro  (10) Porto Santo, Madeira, Portugal  (2) Portoferraio (Tuscany), Italy  (3) Porto Venere, (Cinque Terre), Italy  (4) Sanary-Sur-Mer (Bandol), France  (1) Saranda (Butrint), Albania  (3) Stromboli Volcano Circumnavigation  (2) Tangier, Morocco  (9) Trogir, Croatia  (2) Venice, Italy  (8) Rabat (Casablanca), Morocco  (1) Glacier Alley - Captain’s Choice  (1) Philipsburg, St. Maarten  (3) Magdalena Island, Chile - Captain’s Choice  (2) New Island, Falkland Islands - Captain’s Choice  (6) West Point Island, Falkland Islands — Captain’s Choice  (3) Lipari Island (Sicily), Italy  (5) Fiskardo (Kefalonia), Greece  (3) Sibenik, Croatia  (1) Monopoli, Italy  (1) San Remo, Italy  (1) Saint-Tropez, France  (3) Port Vendres, France  (3) Roses, Spain  (2) Alicante, Spain  (3) Almeria (Granada), Spain  (4) Port Elizabeth (Bequia), St. Vincent and the Grenadines  (1) Puerto del Rosario(Fuerteventura), Canary Islands, Spain  (3) Safi, Morocco  (7) San Sebastian (La Gomera), Canary Islands, Spain  (4) Santa Cruz (La Palma), Canary Islands, Spain  (5) Santander, Spain  (2) Port Medoc (Bordeaux), France  (3) Akureyri, Iceland  (8) Grundarfjörður, Iceland  (6) Kangerlussuaq, Greenland  (6) Nuuk, Greenland  (6) Narsarsuaq, Greenland  (3) Ilulissat (Disko Bay), Greenland  (4) Sisimiut, Greenland  (1) Kangaamiut, Greenland  (1) Arsuk, Greenland  (3) Nanortalik, Greenland  (1) Itilleq, Greenland  (1) Crossing N80 Moffen,Captain’s Choice  (8) Patreksfjörður, Iceland  (1) Seyðisfjörður, Iceland  (7) Gudvangen, Norway  (7) Kristiansand, Norway  (2) Arendal, Norway  (2) Porto Cervo (Sardinia), Italy  (4) Zeebrugge (Bruges), Belgium  (2) Oslo, Norway  (3) Ilheus, Brazil  (1) Terre-de-Haut, (Iles de Saintes), Guadeloupe  (1) Little Bay, Montserrat  (1) Ålesund, Norway  (7) Exploring Greenland-Captain’s Choice  (3) Exploring Svalbard - Captain’s Choice  (14) Fjords of Greenland - Captain’s Choice  (3) Eskifjordur, Iceland  (2) Grimsey, Iceland  (2) Hammerfest, Norway  (3) Exploring the Antarctic Peninsula – Captain’s Choice  (68) Gijon, Spain  (5) Agadir, Morocco  (5) Palamos, Spain  (2) Propriano, Corsica, France  (1) Ile-Rousse, Corsica, France  (1) Parga, Greece  (2) Split, Croatia  (1) Saint-Raphael , France  (2) Toulon, France  (2) Garibaldi Glacier, Chile - Captain’s Choice  (4) Skagen, Denmark  (2) Stavanger, Norway  (5) Sisimiut, Greenland  (2) Ponta Delgada (Azores) Portugal  (2) Praia da Vitoria (Azores), Portugal  (3) Bilbao, Spain  (8) Holyhead, Wales  (3) Surtsey Island Scenic Navigation  (2) Eqi Glacier (Disko Bay), Greenland  (4) Prince Christian Sound - Captain’s Choice  (6) Reykjavik, Iceland  (13) Copenhagen, Denmark  (3) La Goulette, Tunisia  (1) Mindelo (Sao Vicente), Cape Verde  (1) Tarragona, Spain  (1) Collioure, France  (1) Peniscola, Spain  (1) Menton, France  (1) Mykonos, Greece  (3) Igoumenitsa, Greece  (2) King George Island, South Shetland Islands  (8) Ilha Grande, Brazil  (1) Rodney Bay, Saint Lucia  (3) Les Trois-Ilets, Martinique  (3) Pointe-á-Pitre, Guadeloupe  (3) Carambola Beach, St. Kitts & Nevis  (3) Sandy Ground, Anguilla  (3) Lajes do Pico (Azores), Portugal  (2) Newcastle upon Tyne, England  (2) Molde, Norway  (3) Reine, Norway  (2) Lofoten & Vaerøy Islands Cruising  (2) Skarsvåg (North Cape), Norway  (3) Qaqortoq, Greenland  (2) Paamiut, Greenland  (2) Akulleq Island, Greenland  (2) Waterford, Ireland  (2) Bantry, Ireland  (3) Falmouth, England  (1) Poole, England  (1) Ancona, Italy  (3) Durres (Tirana), Albania  (3) Sao Francisco do Sul, Brazil  (1) Isla de los Estados, Argentina  (3) Magdalena, Chile - Captain’s Choice  (1) Exploring the South Orkney Islands - Captain’s Choice, Antarctica  (8) At Sea  (81) Spetses, Greece  (1) Messina (Sicily), Italy  (1) Aberdeen, Scotland  (3) Scrabster, Scotland  (3) Måløy, Norway  (3) Crotone (Calabria), Italy  (1) Porto Santo Stefano, Italy  (1) Kongsbreen Glacier Cruising — Captain’s Choice  (2) Caen (Normandy), France  (2) Dunkirk, France  (2) La Rochelle, France  (1) Rouen (Paris), France  (2) Saint-Jean-de-Luz, France  (4) Bodø, Norway  (2) Alta, Norway  (2) Höfn, Iceland  (3) Siglufjörður, Iceland  (1) Greenock (Glasgow), Scotland  (1) Tobermory, Scotland  (3) Ullapool, Scotland, UK  (1) Tilbury (London), England  (1) Klaipeda, Lithuania  (1) Vilagarcía (Santiago de Compostela), Spain  (2) Zadar, Croatia  (1) Select
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• Terres polaires
• Antarctique
• Immersion nature
• Le 6ème continent : expédition en voilier

Antarctique , Le 6ème continent : expédition en voilier

Antarctique : le voyage d’une vie ! Ne vous trompez pas dans votre choix de voyage : l’ Antarctique est la terre des extrêmes, là où se rêve encore l’Aventure : paysages sans repère, démesurés, chaotiques, qui enivreront le voyageur curieux.

Le voilier : la pièce unique de ce voyage d'exception ! Naviguez avec un confort inégalé, dans cette région reculée, sur un ketch de 31 mètres alliant l'aventure, au plus pure sens du terme, et la sécurité.

Guide kayak et Terres polaires

Un avant-goût du voyage.

L'esprit du voyage

Antarctique : le voyage d’une vie

Ne vous trompez pas dans votre choix de voyage ! L’Antarctique est la terre des extrêmes, là où se rêve encore l’Aventure : paysages sans repère, démesurés, chaotiques, qui enivreront le voyageur curieux… 100 ans plus tard, nous vous proposons de vous rendre sur le lieu d’hivernage du légendaire « Pourquoi pas ? » de Jean-Baptiste Charcot. Le voyage de toute une vie ! Observation de la faune d’Antarctique

Durant le court été austral, nous naviguerons à la découverte de la péninsule Antarctique où d’innombrables îlots accueillent une faune unique, d’une grande diversité. Ils sont les lieux privilégiés pour observer phoques, manchots, oiseaux, baleines, léopards des mers, éléphants de mer... Voyager des Terres de Graham aux Shetland du Sud

Pour atteindre la Terre de Graham, nous louvoierons dans le passage de Drake en direction des îles Shetland du Sud.  La navigation, au rythme des vents, entre des icebergs majestueux, permettra d’apprécier pleinement la magie de ce paysage « irréel ».

Naviguer dans un voilier d'exception

Ce ketch océanique de 31 m de long est capable de naviguer sur tous les océans de la planète grâce des performances et une conception exceptionnelle. Le confort reste néanmoins le maître mot de ce voilier, aussi bien lors de la navigation sur des mers déchainées qu'à l'intérieur des cabines quand le temps se fait plus clément. De plus un équipage expérimenté et un équipement de luxe seront là pour parfaire une navigation confortable et sécurisée.

Téléchargez le carnet de ce voyage

Les points forts.

• Un voyage extraordinaire sur la trace des plus grands aventuriers polaires, dans l’une des dernières parties préservées du monde.
• Une faune Antarctique venue se reproduire dans ces zones extrêmes : des manchots papous aux orques épaulards, en passant par les phoques de Weddell, les baleines à bosse et les léopards des mers...
• La visite de la base scientifique Vernadsky et la rencontre des chercheurs.
• Une participation active à la vie à bord du voilier comme les manœuvres de voile et la vie quotidienne : vous êtes un membre à part entière de l’équipage lors de cette croisière en Antarctique !
• Un voilier équipé d’une solide coque en aluminium, ce qui permet de naviguer en toute sécurité sur ces mers polaires et surtout d’accéder à des sites où des bateaux de plus grande taille ne pourraient passer et offre ainsi une approche unique du milieu austral.
• Une aventure limité à 6 participants seulement !
• Un skipper français, rodé à la navigation sur les mers polaires et toujours prêt à partager sa passion pour ces régions de l’extrême.

L'itinéraire

Du jour 1 au jour 2 : paris – ushuaïa, jour 3 : canal de beagle, jour 4 à jour 7 : passage de drake, présence d’icebergs, passage près de l’ile de smith avec ses pentes et ses glaciers, jour 7 ou jour 8 : shetland du sud, ile de la déception (ancienne station baleinière). observation de « loups marins » et colonies de manchots, jour 9 à jour 10 : détroit de bransfield, jour 11 à jour 12 : péninsule antarctique, faune marine antarctique abondante (manchots, léopard de mer et très probablement des baleines à bosses), jour 13 : baie paradis - port charcot, baleines nageant autour de grands icebergs, jour 14 à jour 16 : station scientifique vernadsky, jour 17 : détroit du maire, colonies de manchots d’adélie et les manchots « papous », jour 18 à jour 20 : archipel melchior, glaciers abruptes de l’ile d’anvers, jour 21 : passage par l'archiel de malchior ou bien l'île déception, en attente de bonnes conditons météorologiques, jour 22 à jour 26 : préparation et passage de drake, jour 27 à jour 28 : arrivée à ushuaïa, dernière nuit à bord au port, jour 29  et 30 : vol retour ushuaia – paris, fin de votre croisière en antarctique, les dates de départs & prix du voyage, nos prix comprennent :.

• Les vols internationaux Paris / Ushuaia, aller / retour sur compagnie régulière, taxes aéroportuaires incluses.
• L’aventure de la traversée du passage du Drake et du cabotage en Antarctique sur un voilier polaire.
• L’accompagnement par un Skipper français spécialiste des contrées australes.
• La caisse de bord.
• L’hébergement à Ushuaia et en Antarctique à bord du voilier.

Nos prix ne comprennent pas :

• Les repas pris à Ushuaia.
• Les dépenses personnelles pendant les escales et le voyage (téléphone, boissons…).
• L’équipement personnel (lisez attentivement notre liste d’équipement).
• Les surtaxes aériennes en cas d'excédent de poids de bagages.
• Les frais de dossier 20 €/personne
• Les pourboires et autres dépenses d’ordre personnel
• Les boissons payantes
• L’option chambre individuelle si souhaitée et disponible
• L'acheminement au départ de votre domicile vers ou depuis l'aéroport où la gare de départ
• En cas de transport aérien, les surtaxes aériennes en cas d’excédent de bagages ou de hausse de carburant
• L’assurance voyage multirisque (facultative)
• Les frais liés à des cas de force majeure non-imputables à l'agence Terres Oubliées (conditions météorologiques défavorables, problèmes géopolitiques, etc.)

Informations pratiques

Compensation carbone.

Dans une démarche de compensation des émissions liées à votre voyage, nous vous proposons les étapes suivantes :

1. ÉVALUEZ L’IMPACT DE VOTRE VOYAGE

Tout d’abord, vous pouvez calculer la quantité de CO2 engendrée par votre déplacement en avion grâce au calculateur de l’association GoodPlanet. Ce calculateur utilise les données de l’ADEME qui propose également un calculateur.

2. ESTIMEZ LE COÛT DE VOTRE COMPENSATION

Dans un second temps, vous pouvez calculer le coût de cette compensation, estimée entre 40 et 50 € TTC la tonne* (en France, en 2021, la taxe carbone fixe un prix au carbone de 44.60 €).

3. COMPENSEZ

Nous avons sélectionné pour vous différents acteurs de référence dans le domaine de la conservation ou de la création de ces puits de carbone pour lesquels nous faisons des dons chaque année. Nous vous invitons donc à compenser vos émissions à travers ces acteurs :

• ASPAS : protection de la faune et la flore, la réhabilitation des animaux sauvages et la préservation des milieux naturels en général.
• GOODPLANET : soutient des projets à la fois environnementaux et solidaires (agroécologie, énergie durable, valorisation des déchets…), partout dans le monde grâce à la contribution climatique et aux dons.
• GERES : agit en faveur des populations vulnérables, contribue à lutter contre les changements climatiques et à accélérer la transition énergétique.
• ENVOL VERT : lutte pour la préservation de la forêt et de la biodiversité en Amérique Latine (Colombie et Pérou) et en France, tout en créant des liens forts avec les populations locales.

Niveaux d'effort

Effort : modéré.

Vous avez une bonne condition physique et vous aimez marcher. L’isolement et la moyenne altitude ne sont pas une contrainte pour vous.

Temps de marche :

Dénivelé :, portage :, condition physique :, confort hébergement, picto-host-habitant chez l’habitant, formalités administratives.

Passeport en cours de validité au moins 6 mois après votre date de retour avec 3 pages vierges pour les ressortissants français.

Terres Oubliées et Escursia se dégagent de toutes responsabilités si votre entrée dans le pays vous est refusée pour non respect de cette règle douanière.

Pas de visa nécessaire à votre entrée.

COVID : Application des règles en vigueur au moment du départ, merci de vous rapprocher du responsable du séjour pour plus d'informations. Terres Oubliées - Escursia se dégage de toutes responsabilités si votre entrée dans le pays vous est refusée pour non-respect des règles sanitaires et douanières. 

Vaccins conseillés : Nous vous recommandons fortement d’être à jour des vaccinations classiques : diphtérie-tétanos-poliomyélite +/-coqueluche, tuberculose, fièvre typhoïde, hépatites A et B.

Dentiste et médecin : Nous vous recommandons d’effectuer une visite de contrôle avant votre départ.

Liste de matériels & équipements

ATTENTION, RIEN DE PESE MAIS 10 FOIS 100 GRAMMES FONT TOUJOURS UN KILO    

• Voyagez de préférence avec des sacs souples. (Pas de valises svp !)
• Une veste de quart haut de gamme (Indispensable!)
• Un pantalon de quart type haut de gamme ou un pantalon de type Goretex (Indispensable!)
• Une veste polaire
• des sur-chaussettes en fourrure polaire
• Des sous-vêtements chauds (Damart ou Helly Hansen)
• Un bonnet et un tour de cou chaud
• Des gants de type Goretex imperméables et une paire genre Mapa épais si vous participez aux manœuvres
• Une paire de bottes en caoutchouc avec 2 pointures en plus (pour y porter de grosses chaussettes) ou de bottes plus chaudes type « Sorel » pour marcher à terre
• Une paire de chaussons (charentaises) pour l’intérieur
• Une paire de lunettes de soleil, stick à lèvres et crème solaire (indispensables sous ces latitudes particulièrement concernées par le trou dans la couche d’ozone et la réverbération du soleil sur la neige et la mer)
• Un sac de couchage synthétique température de confort -5 minimum et un sac à viande
• Pour les appareils photos et vidéo, possibilité de recharger les batteries à bord. Prévoyez toutefois des piles de rechange, des cartes mémoire ou des pellicules si vous en utilisez encore : aucune possibilité d’en acheter une fois les amarres larguées !
• Un petit sac à dos et une gourde pour les randonnées.
• Une lampe de poche frontale
• Une paire de jumelles
• Trousse de toilette et petite pharmacie
• Linge de toilette
• Passeport en cours de validité
• Une spécialité de votre région à partager à bord !

Appelez Sébastien ou Charlotte au 04 37 48 49 90 pour avoir des informations complémentaires sur votre matériel et vêtements, Il est INDISPENSABLE d'être parfaitement équipé pour ce voyage au bout du monde!

Comment s'inscrire

• Le descriptif : Prenez bien le temps de lire les informations inhérentes au voyage contenues dans nos fiches techniques. Vous y trouverez de nombreux renseignements pratiques indispensables à la préparation de votre voyage. N'hésitez pas à nous contacter pour toute précision ou demande particulière.
• L’inscription : Chez Terres Oubliées, elle se fait par téléphone et via votre espace personnel. Il vous suffit de rentrer en contact avec nous : les coordonnées du créateur du voyage qui vous intéresse se trouvent en haut de chaque page des voyages sur le site internet. Nous vous préparons un devis avec un plan de vols valable entre 2 et 5 jours, le temps pour vous de prendre votre décision.
• La confirmation : Nous matérialisons votre inscription par la mise à disposition dans votre espace perso, d’un bon de commande récapitulant les conditions de votre voyage. Il vous faudra le valider pour confirmer définitivement votre participation. A l’inscription, nous vous demandons un acompte de 40 %. Le solde de votre dossier devra nous parvenir au plus tard 45 jours avant la date de départ. A réception de celui-ci, une facture soldée vous sera envoyée.
• Le Dossier Voyage : Une quinzaine de jours avant votre départ, vous recevrez un mail vous invitant à vous rendre sur votre espace personnel où vous trouverez tous les éléments nécessaires à votre départ : contacts sur place, lieux et horaires de rendez-vous, vos billets d'avion ainsi que toutes les informations utiles.

Pour aller plus loin

L’antarctique cartes sur table.

Si vous recherchez le « confort absolu » au-delà d’une véritable exploration à la voile sur ce continent du bout du monde, alors ce voyage n’est pas fait pour vous… Bien que nous naviguions pendant l'été austral, les conditions météo sont un élément important en Antarctique ; n'oubliez pas que nous évoluons sur une des terres les plus extrêmes de la planète et sur l’un des océans les plus puissants du monde … Ce qui veut dire qu’entre l’Antarctique et Ushuaia, la traversée peut parfois être mouvementée . Une fois en Antarctique, la navigation redevient calme.

Le voilier en quelques chiffres

Caractéristiques techniques :

• Longueur : 31,00 m
• Largeur : 6,50 m
• Tirant d’eau : 3,50 m
• Mâts : 35 m et 25 m
• Déplacement (poids) : 68 tonnes
• Surface de voilure au près : 455 m2
• Surface de voilure au portant : 1000 m2
• Moteur John Deere / Baudouin 320 CV
• Groupe électrogène 25 KW
• Dessalinisateur 250 L/Heure
• Winches hydrauliques
• Chauffage Central
• 3 cloisons étanches
• 2 annexes avec moteur hors bord
• 3 membres d'équipage

Le choix qui a été fait est de limiter le nombre de personnes embarquées, pour profiter du confort exceptionnel de ce voilier de 31 mètres. Le luxe de notre ketch, c’est le luxe de l’espace ! (sans parler des petits plats mijotés par notre cuisinière)

Sécurité :

Ce voilier a été conçu pour donner à son équipage une sécurité maximale quelles que soient les conditions de mer et de vent. Tout est surdimensionné à bord, aussi bien les échantillonnages de coque que les sections des mâts et du gréément.

Performance :

À toutes les allures notre bateau est un voilier très rapide, ce qui procure des sensations de glisse fantastiques et rend les traversées beaucoup plus agréables. Prendre la barre de ce ketch de 31 mètres est une expérience inoubliable.

Bibliographie

• Le Pourquoi pas ? dans l'Antarctique 1908-1910 , Éditions Arthaud
• Sur les traces de Jean-Baptiste Charcot , d’Anne-Marie Vallin-Charcot, Marie Foucard et Serge Kahn
• L'odyssée de l'Endurance , d’Ernest Shackleton - Éditions Phébus
• Les survivants de l'Antarctique , de Caroline Alexander avec des photos de Frank Hurley - Éditions Solar
• Sir Ernest Shackleton, Grandeur et endurance d'un explorateur , de Brigitte Lozerec'h

  Romans – récits

• Le grand hiver, Damien II , de Sally Poncet - Éditions Transboréal
• Traversée , de Nikki Gemmel – Éditions 10/18
• White , de Marie Darrieussecq – Éditions Gallimard
• La nuit des temps , de René Barjavel
• Antartida , de Fransisco Coloane – Éditions Phébus
• Le Roman du Cap Horn , récits de divers écrivains -Éditions Omnibus
• Rêveurs de pôles , d’Emmanuel Hussenet - Éditions Septième Continent
• Planète Antarctique , de Paul-Émile Victor et Jean-Christophe Victor
• Salut au Grand Sud , d’Isabelle Autissier et Erik Orsena – Éditions Stock
• Le pôle intérieur , de Jean-Louis Étienne

Personnalisez ce voyage

À deux ou à plusieurs, en famille ou avec vos amis, un voyage sur-mesure selon vos envies !

Niveaux de confort

Hébergement de charme.

Accessible à tous

Votre âme de voyageur aime prendre le temps de la découverte : balades quotidiennes pour visiter les sites et aller à la rencontre des cultures et des populations.

Temps de marche :

Condition physique :.

Vous avez envie de marcher 7 à 8 heures par jour en itinérance et autonomie, pendant plusieurs jours consécutifs (5 à 10 jours) avec des dénivelés conséquents.

Dénivelé :

Condition physique.

Vous êtes un grand sportif et vous aimez les défis. Vous savez gérer l’effort intense et prolongé, les dénivelés importants allant jusqu’à la marche en haute-montagne et les conditions climatiques parfois rudes

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Antarctica Travel Guide

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Copyright © 1996-2015 National Geographic Society Copyright © 2015-2024 National Geographic Partners, LLC. All rights reserved

• 2.1 History
• 2.2 Climate
• 3.1 By plane
• 3.2 By ship
• 3.3 By sailboat
• 4 Get around
• 5 See and do
• 11 Stay safe

Antarctica is the coldest and driest place on Earth, and surrounds the South Pole . Tourist visits are costly, demand physical fitness, can only take place in summer (from November to February), and are largely limited to the Peninsula, Islands and Ross Sea . A couple of thousand staff live here in summer in some four dozen bases mostly in those areas; a small number stay over winter. Inland Antarctica is a desolate plateau covered by 2–3 kilometres (1.2–1.9 mi) of ice. Occasional specialist air tours go inland, for mountaineering or to reach the Pole, which has a large base. Wildlife needs access to the sea and is confined to the coasts.

Regions [ edit ]

Understand [ edit ]

History [ edit ]

About 15 million years ago, the mountain chain connecting South America to Antarctica sank under the ocean, and a new continent was born. Cold sea currents now enclosed Antarctica completely and its climate became intensely cold.

18th century explorers probed the dangerous southern oceans only to encounter a vast barrier of ice: they could hardly tell what was islands, what was a larger land mass, and what was just ice. The first sure sightings of the mainland were in 1820, by Russian, British and American ships all at about the same time. Whaling and sealing vessels began to hunt in the seas here, and explorers mapped the coast. In 1897, a Belgian expedition overwintered in Antarctica and this was the start of the "Heroic Age of Antarctic Exploration", culminating when Roald Amundsen and his crew reached the South Pole in December 1911. Robert Scott arrived a month later but never made it back to the coast.

Nations began setting up bases and claiming parts of the continent, while conducting scientific work. There was a particular effort at collaboration in the "International Geophysical Year" of 1957/58, and this led to the Antarctic Treaty of 1959. The Treaty makes the continent a scientific preserve, suspends all territorial claims, and prohibits military activity here. This Treaty has stood the test of time, and today Antarctica has no border controls, mines or quarries, missile silos, fish canneries, or any settlements beyond small collections of prefabs. Some four dozen bases are occupied year round or seasonally by a transient population, numbering a few thousand in summer and perhaps a couple of hundred in winter. Only 10% could be described as "researchers"; the great majority are support and logistics staff to make the research possible. A couple of settlements style themselves "towns" and children have been born there. One base, McMurdo, even has a bus service; its route passes close to where Scott and his men perished in 1912.

Climate [ edit ]

Antarctica is a desert: the winds are cold, so they carry little moisture, and inland precipitation averages 50 mm (2 inch) a year, the same as the Mojave in California. And yet Antarctica is covered in ice 2–3 km thick. In a warmer climate the snowfall would run off in streams or evaporate, but here it just builds and builds. As Antarctica also has the strongest and most persistent winds of any continent, the snow (or bits of ice small enough to be carried by wind) is constantly moved around and as research stations act as artificial impediments to the free movement of air and snow, there is always the danger of those becoming "buried" by snow, requiring various techniques to avoid or at least delay this process. The bedrock beneath the ice is mostly low-lying (though there are several mountain ranges) – in fact some of the rock is actually several hundred meters below the sea – but add all that ice and most of the continent is at high altitude; the South Pole itself is 2835 m (9301 ft) above sea level. This makes a very cold climate colder still, with inland summer highs of -15°C (5°F) and winter lows below -80°C (-112°F), and thin dry air. The icecap is moving, very slowly on the plateau, faster as it descends to the coast to form glaciers and floating ice sheets which calve into county-sized icebergs.

The coast, especially the Peninsula and its nearby islands, have a slightly less harsh climate, which means their seas are not frozen in summer. This is crucial for wildlife: penguins, seabirds and seals all depend upon open water. It also means that ships can approach, bearing supplies and tourists, from November through February.

Read [ edit ]

Films and TV documentaries show Antarctic scenery and wildlife, but don't get you into the minds of the early explorers. The following are all available to order online.

• Alone: The Classic Polar Adventure , by Richard E Byrd, 1938.
• At the Mountains of Madness by HP Lovercraft, 1936. The earliest science fiction/horror story to take place on the continent, detailing the adventures of a geological expedition to Antarctic Mountains, where the researchers discover something so inconceivable that they lose their minds.
• Antarctica , by Kim Stanley Robinson, 1997. Science fiction account of 21st-century Antarctica and the impact of global warming.
• Endurance: Shackleton's Incredible Voyage , by Alfred Lansing, 1959.
• Endurance , by Caroline Alexander, 1998.
• A First-Rate Tragedy: Robert Falcon Scott & the Race to the South Pole , by Diana Preston, 1999.
• Mawson's Will , by Lennard Bickel, 1977.
• North Pole, South Pole: Journeys to the Ends of the Earth , by Bertrand Imbert, 1992.
• Scott's Last Expedition: The Journals , by Robert F. Scott and Beryl Bainbridge, 1996.
• Shackleton , by Roland Huntford, 1975.
• South Pole: 900 Miles on Foot , by Gareth Wood and Eric Jamieson, 1996.
• The Worst Journey in the World , by Apsley Cherry-Garrard, 1922.
• Terra Incognita , by Sara Wheeler, 1997.
• South , by Ernest Shackleton, 1919.

Get in [ edit ]

Antarctica has no immigration or border controls , but visitors to any land or sea south of 60°S need permission from an Antarctic Treaty member country. Your tour / cruise organiser will take care of this but those travelling independently should apply six months in advance.

By plane [ edit ]

Only five places in Antarctica can handle large, wheeled aircraft suitable for intercontinental flights in potentially hazardous conditions:

• Villa las Estrellas ( TNM  IATA ) on King George Island, 200 km north of the Antarctic Peninsula. This has a gravel, all-seasons runway, and receives 2-hour charter flights from Punta Arenas between December and February. These flights require clear skies, with around 85% of them proceeding as scheduled. This is a common transfer point for visitors joining small-ship cruises of the islands and Peninsula.
• Marambio Base is on Marambio Island in the Weddell Sea, some 100 km south of the tip of the Peninsula. It's open year-round, though it's prone to fog in December and January. This large base acts as the support centre for all the Argentine stations in the region.
• McMurdo Station on Ross Island has two such airfields, receiving flights from Christchurch New Zealand that take four hours, but the strips are only open in November and December. It was intended that the newer "Phoenix" airfield would have a longer season than the "Ice Runway", but this hasn't worked out. McMurdo is a transfer point for visitors from Australia and New Zealand heading to the South Pole, using ski planes from its third airfield "Williams".
• Union Glacier is a privately-run summer airfield on the desolate plateau of West Antarctica . It receives flights from Punta Arenas and from Cape Town . Most visitors are transferring to and from the South Pole, but this airfield is also a base for climbing Mount Vinson and for the Antarctic Marathon.
• Wolfs Fang ( WFR  IATA ) is a privately-run summer airfield in Queen Maud Land, East Antarctica , which receives medium-sized business jets from Cape Town . Guests transfer via Whichaway Camp to ski-aircraft to the Pole and elsewhere.

In 2023, there are no standard commercial flights to any of these airfields, but see their details above for flight package tours. Onward flights into Antarctica use various small to medium aircraft such as the Twin Otter. All the bases have access to a ski runway or at least a helipad.

Sightseeing overflights from Australia by Antarctica Flights spend three hours over the continent. Prices range from AUD $8000 for first-class down to $1200 for a centre economy seat with no guaranteed window access.

The Qantas regular flight between Sydney and Johannesburg passes close enough for a glimpse of Antarctica.

By ship [ edit ]

Ship is the most common method of visiting the Antarctic, with a sailing season Nov-Feb. The vessels are usually ice-strengthened rather than icebreakers; the latter are stronger but round-bottomed, so they heave about more in the massive waves of Drake Passage, typically 4 meters (12 ft) high, sometimes up to 12 meters (40 ft). Most itineraries are to the Antarctic peninsula and nearby Antarctic islands, and they often also take in more northerly islands such as South Georgia and the Falklands.

Smaller ships (less than 100 passengers) can go where the big ships can't, getting you up closer to the nature and wildlife. Larger vessels are less prone to rough seas but have more limited landing options; both will use RIBs (powered dinghies) to get you ashore or close in among the ice floes. Big ships may have 1000+ normal capacity but be limited to 500 on Antarctic trips. IAATO rules say that at most 100 people may be ashore at any one time: that's mainly so that everyone can be swiftly plucked to safety when (not if) conditions turn dangerous. Larger ships therefore have to segment their landings, so those passengers might only get a couple of hours per day off ship. Smaller ships can get their shore parties out and back in one operation then move on to visit a second location same day. Everything is very dependent on the weather: an onshore breeze (which in these climes will be going on a gale) will send furious breakers pounding onto the landing beach. About a third of landings have to be called off.

Even on a cosy cruise ship, you need warm clothing just to stand on deck let alone get ashore: boots, hoods, glove, water repellent pants, parka, and warm underwear. Most of these items can be bought or hired in Ushuaia, but they might not have your size. So bring whatever you can from your own stock.

Many shipping companies also offer fly/cruises, so you fly one-way or round-trip from mainland Chile. These cost more but save a couple of days each way upchucking across the Drake Passage.

As of 2023, a couple of dozen companies offer trips to Antarctica: others simply act as agents, selling you on to another company and charging a mark-up for their labours. Those listed here are understood to be direct operators, though they may be hiring the vessel with crew and sharing it with other companies. Supply outstrips demand: there is a lot of last-minute availability, but don't be too last-minute as even reaching the port of departure is a major trip in its own right. These companies all sail from Ushuaia unless otherwise noted:

• Abercrombie & Kent sail on Le Lyrial (200 passengers max).
• Antarpply Expeditions on Ushuaia (90).
• Aurora Expeditions on Greg Mortimer (126).
• Bark Europa on Europa , a square-rigged sailing ship.
• Cheesemans Ecology Safaris : flying into King George then onto the 12-passenger Hans Hanson .
• Compagnie du Ponant on Le Soleal , Le Boreal and L'Austral (all about 260 max).
• Expedition Cruise Specialists on Expedition (134) and Sea Spirit (114), also from Invercargill on Spirit of Enderby and Spirit of Shokalskiy (both 50), or flying into King George then onto 100-passenger Magellan Explorer .
• G Adventures also sail on Expedition .
• Heritage Expeditions also sail from Invercargill on Spirit of Enderby and Spirit of Shokalskiy.
• Geographic Expeditions sail from Ushuaia or fly into King George or to the South Pole.
• Hapag-Lloyd Cruises on Bremen (155), and from 2021 on Hanseatic Nature and Hanseatic Inspiration .
• Hurtigruten sail from Ushuaia and Punta Arenas on Roald Amundsen (500), Fridtjof Nansen (500), Fram (250) and Midnatsol (500).
• Intrepid Travel on Ocean Endeavour (100).
• Quark Expeditions also on Ocean Endeavour .
• National Geographic Expeditions on National Geographic Explorer (148), NG Orion (102) and NG Endurance (126).
• Lindblad Expeditions sail on the same vessels.
• Oceanwide Expeditions sail from Ushuaia and Bluff NZ on Plancius (108), Ortelius (108), Janssonius (170) and Hondius (170).
• Polar Latitudes on Hebridean Sky and Island Sky , plus Seaventure from 2021.

By sailboat [ edit ]

About a dozen charter sailboats, many of them members of IAATO, offer three to six-week voyages to the Antarctic Peninsula from South America. Most offer "expedition style" trips where guests are invited to help out, although usually no prior sailing experience is required. Yachts take individuals on a "by the bunk" basis and also support private expeditions such as scientific research, mountaineering, kayaking, and film-making. Compared to the more popular expedition ships, a small yacht can be more work and significantly less comfortable, but typically allows more freedom and flexibility. For the right people, this can be a far more rewarding experience.

• Ocean Expeditions . Expedition support yacht Australis purpose-built for high latitudes. Specializing in private or commercial expeditions involving film making, scientific research, adventure activities, wildlife enthusiasts or just an intimate experience of the Antarctic.
• Expedition Sail . Sailing yacht Seal is a purpose-built expedition sailboat offering private expeditions, support for research, filming, or climbing projects, and also offers "by the bunk" trips for individuals.
• Spirit of Sydney . Australians Darrel and Cath own and operate Spirit of Sydney , an expedition support yacht for film crews, mountaineers, skiers and snowboarders, sea kayakers, dry suit divers, scientists, sailors of all experience levels, and whale watchers. They typically carry kayaks on board and offer private charters and group trips for individuals.

Get around [ edit ]

Skis, snowmobiles, tractors, snowcats, helicopters and ski planes are all used to get around Antarctica, and McMurdo on Ross Island even has a bus service. Cruise ships use RIBs / zodiacs (sturdy inflatable powerboats) to ferry tourists between ship and shore; bases close to open water also use these. Bring your own fuel!

The last of the pony- and dog-sled teams retired in the 1980s. It would be neat to bring a few teams over for a "heritage" run, but given the logistics and paperwork necessary, it would probably be simpler to run an old steam locomotive here.

See and do [ edit ]

Antarctica is an amazing place just to look at, with its enormous calving glaciers, icebergs the size of cities, penguin colonies and towering snow-clad mountains. But even just standing there looking is going to involve exertion on your part, elaborate preparation, and a degree of risk. The distinction between seeing and doing is a fine one in many locations, and here it vanishes altogether.

• In that spirit, the prime thing for you to do in Antarctica is come home safe . Don't do anything, not even just standing there, without having that in mind. How are the sea conditions and the weather? How is your body faring? What about the other people in your group, is everyone accounted for? And what if, what if, what if?
• The southern aurora , but not in summer. You need full darkness to see it, but in summer the sky is bright even if the sun has briefly dipped below the horizon. You may have more chance on the homeward sailing, as your latitude decreases and the nights lengthen. The same applies to other dark sky sights such as meteors.
• The midnight sun in midsummer, but only within the Antarctic circle; most of the Peninsula and all of the Antarctic Islands lie north of it. Actually you're going to get fed up with the sun, since it's broad daylight at 02:00 when you need your sleep.

• Lemaire Channel is a spectacular section of coastline along the Peninsula. It narrows to 1.6 km, and cruise ships sail through a canyon of cliffs and towering ice. Its waters are remarkably still and populated by whales. It's close to other attractions such as Port Lockroy, Cierva Cove and Paradise Bay so it's on many cruise itineraries, but the channel is sometimes blocked by icebergs, so the ship has to back up and seek another route.
• Old camps and bases that have been abandoned. Some (such as on Paulet Island) were refuges built by shipwreck survivors, others (as on Deception, above) were summer camps for whaling and sealing. Port Lockroy on the Peninsula was the main British base until they moved to Rothera. It's been converted into a museum. There's a particularly rich collection on Ross Island, as this was historically the main base for exploration towards the pole.
• Emperor penguins ( Aptenodytes forsteri ) are the 1.2 m creature that stays and breeds here during the harsh winter. Its habitat is stable pack ice within waddling distance of open water - though they may waddle for over 100 km. The largest colonies are on mainland sites that are hard to visit, but there's a small but accessible colony on King George Island, and a larger one at the tip of the Peninsula.
• Adélie penguins ( Pygoscelis adeliae ) are the ones 50-60 cm tall in badly-fitting tuxedos. They live at the edge of the ice and forage for krill, but in spring (October) they move to ice-free land to breed. Their largest known colony is in the Danger Islands at the tip of the Peninsula, with 1.5 million birds.

• Gentoo penguins ( P. papua ) are 60-80 cm tall with a distinctive white band on the head and trumpeting call. They're mainly sub-Antarctic but are found on the Peninsula.
• Chinstrap penguins ( P. antarcticus ) are 70 cm with an obvious chin-strap and harsh stroppy call. They're mainly sub-Antarctic but are found on the Peninsula and South Shetland Islands.
• Tangerine penguins 50-60 cm high, are they Adélies? There are penguin colonies all round the Antarctic coastline, but viewing them from close-up needs a colony near a safe landing beach; so these attract a stream of visitors. You'll smell them first and hear their grating kra-kra kraa? before you see their orange line along the shore. Then as the boat draws closer you realize the orange things are traffic cones . They are there partly to show you the trail (you may be trying to return in poor visibility), but mostly to indicate the line that you must not cross to avoid disturbing the colony. Expect grief if you transgress, and if you do so in January when the eggs are hatching and the chicks are most vulnerable, you'll be busted off further shore trips.
• No penguins at all at the South Pole, or anywhere on the remote plateau.
• Other wildlife includes Humpback, Minke, Blue and Orca Whales; Crab-eater, Weddell and Leopard Seals; and Blue-eyed Shag, Southern Giant Petrel, Cape Petrel, and Kelp Gull.
• Climb an active volcano, Mount Erebus at 3794 m on Ross Island. It's a Stromboli-type volcano so it erupts continuously but without great violence, so you can reach the summit crater with its lava lake.
• Climb the Seventh Summit , Mount Vinson at 4892 m. The "Seven Summits Challenge" is to climb the highest peaks of all seven continents. The list of seven is disputed: which continent does Elbrus belong to, and does Puncak Jaya in Indonesia supplant the Sunday afternoon stroll that is Kosciuszko? What is universally agreed is that Everest is the highest in Asia and Vinson the highest in Antarctica, and that these two are the most difficult and perilous. Vinson is much less of a technical challenge, you spend little time in the "death zone" above 4000 m, but it's the isolation, the logistics, and the literally perishing cold.
• While virtually no traveller ever visits Antarctica for its religious buildings, there are several churches in Antarctica . Some tours will stop at one of them.

Buy [ edit ]

There isn't much to buy in Antarctica, and most of the shops are small gift shops and souvenir shops. The largest shop is McMurdo's General Store, which would probably provide you with just about anything you will need in Antarctica.

Coming to the Antarctic marks you as a high-roller; at the very least you'll get some surprising junk-mail and pop-ups. Some cruise passengers have experienced "presentations" that were just pressure-selling of flaky investments, fine wines the quality of filling station Chardonnay, and kitsch artwork and antiques. This is not common on Antarctic cruises, whose passengers are more savvy than most, but as ever caveat emptor .

Eat [ edit ]

Take advice from your trip organizer on what supplies to bring. You need sufficient and some spare, but not excess which creates deadweight. Take suitable nutritional advice before extended shore trips. The main risk to the average cruise passenger is pigging out at the ship's buffet. If you're living and working on land, though, you'll find you have quite an appetite; the extra manual labor and cold temperatures result in average calorie intake nearly double of normal.

Most food at bases is frozen, dried, canned, or otherwise preserved. It's all ordered in advance and delivered just once a year around January. Fresh produce is limited, and is typically flown into bases weekly for around two months (around Nov-Dec). A large station may have a cook who can work wonderful variations on the same old pasta; small places may just have a microwave. A few bases are experimenting with indoor greenhouses where they grow fresh produce to prepare future long-term space missions or the supply of Moon or Mars bases. While the food produced is a very welcome break from the same-old for the crew, it's far too little to last the winter.

In the field, food must be carried or otherwise transported. It needs to be compact, energy-rich, and dry; anything liquid will freeze solid. Re-hydrating it may be a bigger challenge than heating it. Large campsites may be set up with a makeshift "kitchen" using camping equipment, or even more complete facilities including a range, oven, and even a grill; food at these will be improvised but still pretty decent. The smallest campsites and mobile teams will have to subsist on camping rations including energy bars, pemmican (a dried paste of meat, fruit, and animal fat), and highly-coveted chocolate bars.

Don't eat the wildlife: penguins, seals, bird's eggs, anything... even if it was already dead when you found it. It's illegal due to the treaty, which seeks to protect Antarctic wildlife after 200 years of over-hunting and environmental damage. Equally, don't feed them, however woebegone-cute they look, though there's no rule against leopard seals ( Hydrurga leptonyx ) eating you. It's very rare for them to try, what they're more likely to do is attack and puncture the pontoon floats of your RIB, mistaking their cylindrical black shape for seals.

Drink [ edit ]

Drinking water requires forethought. In summer near the coast there may be freshwater lakes, but they're full of bird poop plus the odd decomposing penguin. Most of the continent is covered in snow and permafrost, but it must be collected and thawed, both of which take a lot of energy. Meltwater is low in minerals and tastes very flat; you may prefer yours with a dash of salt or syrup.

As in any cold climate, never drink alcohol until you are safely in shelter . It's notorious for generating a false glow of warmth and well-being while your core body temperature ebbs away. Rules for alcohol vary by base, but it's usually available at bases' general stores and bars.

Sleep [ edit ]

Antarctica has very long summer days, 24-hour long within the Antarctic circle. Try to maintain regular sleeping hours, as this continuous daylight disturbs the body clock. There are no hotels or lodges, and research bases won't house tourists. Most visitors sleep aboard their ship, while inland trips (e.g. to the Pole) have camps set up.

Work [ edit ]

It is possible to obtain employment with scientific expeditions and research bases in Antarctica, but there's stiff competition for the small number of posts, only open to citizens of the relevant country. Posts are fixed-term contracts with induction and training before departure for Antarctica. Most positions are summer-only, and less than 10% of staff stay on over winter.

Staffing agencies include Antarctic Support Contract for the US, the Australian Antarctic Program for Australia, British Antarctic Survey for the UK, Antarctica NZ for New Zealand, and South African National Antarctic Programme for South Africa. They also recruit for Subantarctic sites such as South Georgia, Gough and Macquarie.

Stay safe [ edit ]

Antarctica is an extreme environment, and accidents are unavoidable. Weigh up the risks and your own abilities before committing to a trip.

By sea is how most visitors arrive. The southern oceans are never calm, and often very rough even in summer, with hurricane-force winds and 20 m / 70 ft waves. The ship is designed to handle this so your main risks are three days of upchucking, being thrown about, falling down a stair well, or having heavy doors or items crash into you. Always have one secure handhold, and in severe weather stay in your cabin. Trips won't venture ashore in poor weather but it may deteriorate: be extremely cautious when returning in a zodiac and follow crew instructions on when to hold still and when to cross onto the landing stage. If you fall in, your survival time in these waters is less than a minute.

It's cold even on the continental fringes where most visitors go. Most cruises focus on the Antarctic Peninsula and only travel during the warmest months (late October to March). Temperatures are typically around freezing and can drop much lower, so be prepared. Standard cold-weather gear won't suffice for polar conditions: it needs to be thermally protective, wind- and water-proof, yet still allow good mobility. Seek advice from the trip organiser, and don't assume that anything will be available on ship. But conversely, the operator may prefer to issue everyone with standard kit that they know is reliable. Keeping feet warm is important on a cruise, especially when taking zodiac cruises where you won't be moving very much, taking plenty of wool socks is recommended.

It's even colder and at high altitude inland , even if you're not mountaineering: the South Pole is at 2835 m / 9301 ft.

Intense sunlight and no shelter from it: you need sunglasses and 40+ factor sunblock.

You need to be healthy and moderately fit. If you have a long-term condition such as diabetes it needs to be very well controlled: you're going to be in a stressful environment with lots of disruption to diet, activity, and day / night cycle. A medical evacuation could take days to effect and costs could approach US$1 million.

Altogether, it's hazardous yet safe , so to speak. For sure you need adequate travel / medical insurance, and an annual multi-trip policy is often the best value. This should cover a cruise with shore trips, but might exclude anything beyond. Travel insurers are generally relaxed about standard Antarctic tourist trips - indeed in 2020 one insurer offered the chance to win such a trip if you took out a policy with them. So they're not seeing many claims. Antarctic travellers are healthy and switched on, they pay attention to safety briefings and are not befuddled by alcohol, herbal tobacco or hormonal bravado - altogether they're a safer group than the average ski chalet party.

Respect [ edit ]

Antarctica has a very fragile environment . Penguins live at the very limit of what is survivable and are especially vulnerable in the brooding / hatching season. Some habitats have extra protection and you may not enter these. Interfering with wildlife is illegal and discouraged. Unless you're a trained researcher, don't approach wildlife closely, and even when viewing from a distance try not to surround animals which might confuse or frighten them. At the same time, don't feed or help animals even if they would die without your help; if you did, it would interfere with the "survival of the fittest" and would have negative long-term consequences.

Leave no trash. Antarctic treaties require the equivalent of leave-no-trace camping . Waste disposal and sewage facilities ashore are severely limited and restricted to permanent bases; researchers in field campsites must pack everything out, including human waste. Practice good hygiene and follow any bio-security advice given, e.g. on boot washing. There's scant risk of introducing a blight upon the Antarctic apple harvest, but you don't want to be trailing penguin poop back to the ship's buffet, or catching norovirus in the washrooms.

The International Association of Antarctica Tour Operators (IAATO) is a voluntary organization of tour operators which promotes safe and environmentally responsible tourism in Antarctica. It publishes standards for its members on responsible conduct of visits.

Connect [ edit ]

The top-level Internet domain for Antarctic sites, .aq , is assigned to organizations that conduct work in Antarctica or signatory governments to the Antarctic Treaty. Generally, its servers are hosted elsewhere as Internet access in Antarctica is quite limited . There are no undersea cables to Antarctica; all Internet is provided by satellites, which have limited bandwidth and high latency. Bandwidth is prioritized for scientific research (and even so, for large scientific uploads it's faster to mail a thumb drive), leaving even less for personal use. All websites are slow (especially social media sites, which are throttled because they're in such high demand). Uploading selfies is okay, but video calls, streaming video, and most online gaming is impossible.

Only a few sites in Antarctica have mobile phone service . Argentina's Marambia Base has 4G LTE, while the Chilean, Uruguayan, Australian, and Finnish bases have 2G GSM. Everywhere else, you would have to rely on satellite phones. Along parts of the coast, some services like Inmarsat would work, but as you get further inland, most satellites drop below the horizon. At those latitudes, Iridium satellite phones are the only ones that will work, and they should work excellently since the poles are where the orbits of every satellite overlap. Globalstar does not work (as of 2020) as its satellites can only relay to a nearby ground station, of which there are none close enough to the South Pole; even coverage near South America has been out of commission since 2015.

Post offices are few and far between, but you can send home a postcard (with a truly unique postmark) from the Chilean town of Villa Las Estrellas on King George Island, or from the former British base of Port Lockroy, or from the US or NZ post offices at McMurdo on Ross Island.

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