Antarctica is just the tip of the iceberg
Whether you want to embrace the wilds of Southern Patagonia
or unwind at a vineyard near Santiago,
talk to Swoop about extending your adventure...
Our most popular Antarctic cruises for 2025
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What our customers think of Antarctic cruises
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Planning your Antarctic cruise
When to go to Antarctica
Choosing when to go to Antarctica is a key part of planning a cruise, with each month of the season offering a different side of the continent.
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Antarctic Peninsula Cruises
The Peninsula is the classic way to experience Antarctica. Some of the best wildlife and most dramatic scenery can be found in this part of the Frozen Continent.
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What to expect on an Antarctic cruise
From stepping foot on polar shores to zodiac cruises, and wildlife encounters to adventure activities, here’s what you can expect from an Antarctic cruise.
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Antarctic Cruise Ships
We work with a range of different Antarctic vessels, with expertise across the entire polar fleet, to give you the best choice of ship, cabin and departure date.
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Swoop says
We have more than 75 trips to choose from on over 35 different expedition ships available for 2025. Get in touch with us to book your cruise ahead of the crowd!
High Summer Antarctic cruises
December and January are the height of the main Antarctic cruise season. Penguin rookeries are heaving with newly hatched chicks while their harried parents flit and scurry around them. In February, the already-plump chicks seem to dominate the rookeries. Whale sightings become more prevalent in the deep blue.
Antarctica in January
January is the peak of the Antarctic summer, so you'll enjoy magical 20+ hours of sunlight each day. These extra daylight hours gives you more time each day to explore,…
Discover MoreAntarctica in February
February's the time for sailing all the way to the Polar Circle, the sun's rays through December and January having weakened the pack ice significantly enough to allow for …
Discover MoreAntarctica in December
The summer sun bathes the continent in 20-24 hours of daylight in December, making it a popular time to visit. It's also a busy time for the penguin rookeries as the chicks begin …
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Late Summer & Early Spring Antarctic cruises
November is an exciting time of year to be in Antarctica as it marks the start of summer when everything seems to wake up from the long, dark winter. Penguin rookeries are a hive of activity, while elephant seals are busy battling it out on South Georgia Island. Come March, as winter draws closer, you can expect the closest encounters with whales. Watch waddling groups of penguin adolescents and experience an increase in predator activity.
Antarctica in March
March marks the end of the travel season to Antarctica. You'll be able to enjoy the mesmerising colours of blooming green and pink algae against the water and ice, as well as …
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In November Antarctica opens its arms to the season's first visitors. You'll not only enjoy the excitement of walking on virgin snow, but you'll also appreciate its beauty as you …
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Antarctic cruises in 2025: FAQs
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Where is best to stay on an Antarctic trip?
Most visitors to Antarctica explore the region by cruise ship, spending each night onboard. At Swoop, we offer a diverse selection of vessels, ranging from small ships with fewer than 70 guests to larger ones featuring multiple dining options and social spaces.
A select few travellers choose to fly to Antarctica and stay at an exclusive ice camp. These land-based experiences are limited in availability and come at a higher cost than most ship-based voyages. For more details, visit our South Pole and Antarctic Interior expeditions page.
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Do you get off the cruise ship in Antarctica?
Yes, you leave the ship on our cruises to immerse yourself in Antarctica’s epic wildlife and icy scenery. We do not offer voyages on larger vessels (500+ capacity) as these will not allow you to set foot on Antarctic soil. Discover more about what you can expect on our polar cruises.
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What is the average cost of a cruise to Antarctica in 2025?
The cost of an Antarctic cruise starts from around $5,995 for an express Peninsula trip to approximately $60,000 or more for an expedition to the South Pole. To find out more about budgeting for your expedition, visit our Antarctic costs explained guide.
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How many days is enough for Antarctica?
The length of an Antarctic trip depends on the type of voyage you choose, but most classic Peninsula cruises are at least 10 days long. You can save time by flying to Antarctica, cutting out up to four days’ sailing time.
Alternatively, you could opt to lengthen your trip by exploring incredible destinations such as wildlife-packed South Georgia or the remote Ross Sea.
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Where can I take an Antarctic cruise from?
Expedition cruises to the Antarctic Peninsula typically set sail from the southern tip of South America, with Ushuaia, Argentina, and Puerto Williams, Chile, serving as the main departure ports. If you would prefer to skip crossing the Drake Passage by ship, flights to Antarctica usually depart from Punta Arenas or Puerto Natales, Chile.
A handful of expeditions depart from Australia and New Zealand for those exploring the remote Ross Sea. Learn more in our guide on how to get to Antarctica.
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Is it safe to go on a cruise to Antarctica?
It’s perfectly safe as all the ships we work with are staffed by experts who know how to take the precautions necessary in polar destinations.
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What is the best month to cruise to Antarctica in 2025?
The best month to cruise to Antarctica depends on what you want out of your cruise. December, January and February are the most popular options because the weather tends to be more predictable. November and March are classed as shoulder season but still offer an incredible experience, not to mention lower prices.
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How cold will I feel on an Antarctic cruise?
During the Austral summer – the peak visiting time for Antarctica – average temperatures range from 28°F to 44°F (-2°C to 6°C). Visitors are often surprised by how mild it can feel. Expedition ships travel only during this season, offering a much more comfortable climate compared to the frigid winters. In fact, you might even find yourself overheating while hiking uphill through the snow!
That said, Antarctica is a land of contrasts, and strong gusts can quickly create a significant wind chill. This is especially noticeable when you’re out on deck whale watching or admiring breathtaking icebergs. Fortunately, with the right gear – waterproof and windproof outer layers paired with insulating layers to retain warmth – it’s easy to stay cosy and dry.
For more tips, check out our guide on what to wear in Antarctica.
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Antarctic Adventure Activities
Picture a humpback whale gliding past your kayak or sleeping out in the pristine snow of a polar campsite. An adventure activity can take your Antarctic cruise to the next level.
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South Georgia Cruises
A jewel in Antarctica's crown, South Georgia is one of the world's great wildlife destinations: the Serengeti of the Southern Ocean
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Antarctic Peninsula Wildlife
The Antarctic Peninsula is one of the best wildlife watching destinations on Earth, with a host of penguins, whales, seals and more to discover.
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Fly & Cruise Antarctica
Fly & Cruise trips offer the best of Antarctica in one simple package: flying to the Peninsula in two hours to join an expedition cruise ship for a classic polar adventure.
Discover MoreReady to plan your Antarctic adventure?
1
Listen
We'll spend some time listening to your aspirations, then discuss the kind of experience that might suit you.
2
Match
Next we'll discuss the options, shortlist the best trips for you and present you our impartial recommendations.
3
Reserve
We'll place a 24 hour hold on your preferred option - without obligation - whilst we talk through the details.
With over 100 years of Antarctic experience between us, we can help guide you to exactly the right trip for you.
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