How to get to Antarctica
Discover how to travel to the most remote continent on earth. Study the various adventurous routes, the best way to travel and how long it will take to get to Antarctica.
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5 reasons to visit the Antarctic Peninsula
- Ludicrously beautiful, the Peninsula has some of the most dramatic scenery in the whole of Antarctica
- Home to the greatest collection of Antarctic wildlife, a veritable menagerie of penguins, seals and whales
- The most accessible and popular part of Antarctica to visit from Patagonia, with the widest choice of voyages and ships
- Traverse ice-choked channels by zodiacs, experience the cacophony of penguin rookeries, camp out on the Continent
- Visit the Peninsula's highlights - Deception Island, Port Lockroy, Paradise Bay and the Lemaire Channel to name but a few
Our most popular Antarctic Peninsula Cruises
Special Offers:Swoop has access to the widest range of offers and can help you find the right trip, cabin, & price.
4.6 out of 5
Antarctic Peninsula Classic
Travelling on board this extremely comfortable ship, explore the highlights of the peninsula with a top class expedition team. Spacious cabins, delicious cuisine and optional adventure activities all help create this ideal marriage of comfort and…
- 12-13 Days
- $11,985
4.2 out of 5
Antarctic Explorer
The great strength of this trip is choice - a wide selection of departure dates and optional adventure activities available across two comfortable ice-strengthened ships (either 128 or 189 guests). Spend a minimum of four full days exploring Antarctica. Enjoy…
- 11–12 Days
- $11,495
4.5 out of 5
Original Fly & Cruise Luxury Adventure
Fly over the Drake Passage in just 2 hours, both to and from Antarctica. Ideal for those wanting a high comfort level, but who have limited time or are anxious sailors. An outstanding program, successfully operated for over 15 seasons.…
- 8 Days
- $15,295
4.2 out of 5
Antarctic Basecamp Adventure
The ultimate Antarctic adventure, this trip is specifically for the active traveller. Spend 7 days kayaking, hiking, camping, mountaineering and snowshoeing, all included in the price. A medium-sized expedition ship acts as your floating ‘basecamp’. Great value for money backed…
- 13 Days
- $10,200
4.6 out of 5
Onto the Antarctic Ice
With three medium-sized expedition ships and regular departure dates throughout the season, this well priced voyage is a popular option. Across striking landscapes and icy seas your company will include penguins, seals, whales and skuas. For the adventurous, optional kayaking…
- 10-13 Days
- $10,100
4.4 out of 5
Antarctic Peninsula Explorer
Explore the White Continent onboard one of the newest additions to the Polar fleet, a state-of-the-art expedition vessel combining adventure with comfort. Limited to only 132 passengers, there’s also a wide range of optional adventure activities on this classic Antarctic…
- 11-15 Days
- $12,795
5 out of 5
Antarctic Explorer in Style
For those travellers prioritising real comfort and ease of travel logistics, this is a great option. Travel in style aboard a state-of-the-art expedition ship, with heli-sightseeing available on select departures for a unique bird's-eye view of Antarctica. Plus the comprehensive…
- 11-12 Days
- $11,395
What our customers think of Antarctic Peninsula Cruises
Antarctic Peninsula Cruises trips scored 4.3/5 from 480 reviews
Swoop are very good and John's advice and chats that we had, made what could have been a difficult decision easy.
Travelled: March 2018
Mick - UK
I could not have asked for better service than Swoop provided. You answered all my questions and concerns and provided me with all trip details and requirements.
Travelled: January 2018
Al & Natalia - Florida
Excursions were the highlights of the trip. I can't point a finger to any of them saying that one was the best. They were all fantastic!
Travelled: January 2018
Zoltan & Stephen Nemeth - Florida
It was an incredible experience. Antarctica is unlike any place I have ever visited, totally unspoiled by human influence aside from the few research stations dotted here and there. The raw beauty and remoteness is impossible to describe.
Travelled: January 2018
Tony & Penny - Mississippi
We saw much more wildlife than expected, including humpbacks swimming around and under our kayaks, as well as visiting the boat on several occasions; an unusual visit from a large pod of orcas; lots of seals; birds and, of course, highly entertaining penguins.
Travelled: December 2017
George & Kate - Connecticut
We booked with Swoop because it was evident in the first phone call that Swoop knew far more about Antarctic travel than an agent recommended by friends. Book through people who have been there repeatedly; Swoop was an excellent choice.
Travelled: December 2017
Marc - Florida
Lemaire Channel was spectacular even though we had to turn around at the end due to iceberg blocking the way. Saw so many whales - fin, humpback, and orca.
Travelled: March 2017
Nathalie - California
Seeing astounding small blue crevasses among the vast white background, watching sea-ice form, witnessing icebergs calving and crashing into the sea, unexpectedly coming across lush green algae and blue copper staining on the rocks are all experiences that we will never forget.
Travelled: March 2017
Graham and Angela - UK
My highlight was landing on the continent in Paradise Bay and going to Deception Island. We repeatedly said we felt like we were on an ocean safari, we saw so much wildlife every day.
Travelled: March 2017
Barbara - California
Review:
From One to One Hundred
Swoop has catered for travellers of every group size. Whether you’re adventuring solo or bringing a group of over 100. We can help.
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Solos
- Working with over 30 different ships to find you the most solo-friendly ships, with the lowest single supplements, and the best solo deals available. Discover More
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2 - 5 people
- With over 100 collective years of Polar experience our team will help you find your perfect trip, so you’re on the right ship, in the right cabin, and at the right point of the season. Discover More
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6 - 80 people
- We’ve worked with all sizes of groups, from large families to small schools. Travelling with Swoop means you’ll be the best prepared customers on the voyage and you pay nothing extra for this service. Discover More
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Large Groups
- We are experienced charter consultants that can build tailored experiences for both part and full charters of vessels. Discover More
Visiting the Antarctic Peninsula
What to expect
Prepare for sensory overload. By day you'll take to rubber zodiacs to cruise amongst towering icebergs, visit vast penguin rookeries and cruise ice floes for wildlife, whilst at night you'll anchor up in a quiet bay ready for the next day's adventure.
Each day after breakfast you'll set out for your first landing, always accompanied by your expedition leaders. After 2-3 hours of exploring, you'll return for lunch, and the ship may reposition before you get back into your zodiacs to cruise past icebergs, or to patrol the ice edge for basking seals. It's then back to the ship for a well-deserved drink, and to share stories with your fellow travellers.
Approaching ice in a zodiac
How to get there
The Antarctic Peninsula lies a short two day journey by boat from the toe of Patagonia, across the narrow neck of the infamous Drake Passage. As it is the most easily accessed part of Antarctica, and one of the most popular due to the scenic beauty and extraordinary menagerie of wildlife, there is a wealth of choice of ways to get there. From authentic expeditionary ships to luxurious vessels, there's something to suit every traveller and their budget.
For those for whom time is more limited, you can save days by avoiding the Drake Passage altogether and taking a flight to Antarctica. In just two hours you'll touch down on the white continent, ready to start exploring.
Swoop says
The peninsula is actually a continuation of The Andes, which makes the scenery amazing. The Lemaire Channel is only half a mile wide and the peaks rise straight up out of the water on either side as you sail down it.
When to visit
Cruises operate between late October and the end of March. Each month has its own characteristics and nuances, so there's no real 'best time' to visit, however there is a high season and shoulder season.
High season is late December to early February when days are long, the weather is the most stable and wildlife the most active. However, spring (late October and November) has lots of offer, with heavier ice and the chance of being one of the first down to Antarctica for that year. Later in the season, the softer light of March is excellent for photographers, and you've got higher chances of whale sightings.
Entering the Lemaire Channel
What route will I take?
A Peninsula cruise typically begins by exploring the South Shetland Islands, and may include Half Moon Bay, Deception Island and Livingston Island. From here, you may continue on to Hope Bay and the Antarctic Sound (filled with tabular icebergs) before heading south along the Gerlache Strait and through the Lemaire Channel to Paradise Bay.
Ultimately your route will be heavily influenced by the weather and ice conditions. The expeditionary leader and captain will decide where best to go to get you the best landing sites, so no two Antarctic cruises are ever the same. Flexibility is a key feature of any Antarctic cruise and is very much all part of the adventure.
Gentoo penguins in Antarctica
Zodiac cruising in Antarctica
Authentic Expeditions
These voyages are expeditionary at heart - expect a strong focus on adventure, and getting out and about in Antarctica.
Special Offers:Swoop has access to the widest range of offers and can help you find the right trip, cabin, & price.
4.2 out of 5
Antarctic Basecamp Adventure
The ultimate Antarctic adventure, this trip is specifically for the active traveller. Spend 7 days kayaking, hiking, camping, mountaineering and snowshoeing, all included in the price. A medium-sized expedition ship acts as your floating ‘basecamp’. Great value for money backed…
- 13 Days
- $10,200
4.4 out of 5
Antarctic Peninsula Explorer
Explore the White Continent onboard one of the newest additions to the Polar fleet, a state-of-the-art expedition vessel combining adventure with comfort. Limited to only 132 passengers, there’s also a wide range of optional adventure activities on this classic Antarctic…
- 11-15 Days
- $12,795
4.2 out of 5
Antarctic Explorer
The great strength of this trip is choice - a wide selection of departure dates and optional adventure activities available across two comfortable ice-strengthened ships (either 128 or 189 guests). Spend a minimum of four full days exploring Antarctica. Enjoy…
- 11–12 Days
- $11,495
5 out of 5
Classic Peninsula Voyage
Travelling aboard this modern 134-passenger ship with its 200-degree observation lounge and spacious cabins, spend 4 full days exploring Antarctica’s extraordinary icebergs and wildlife. Optional camping and kayaking, while Ushuaia hotel accommodation and a parka jacket are included in the…
- 11 Days
- $7,799
4.5 out of 5
Antarctica Classic in Depth
Few other voyages offer 6 full days on the Peninsula. You'll have time to really absorb the incredible glacial landscapes, unique wildlife & the history; whilst options for kayaking & camping offer another perspective. The large & stable vessel softens…
- 13 Days
- $10,799
3.7 out of 5
Cruise to The Antarctic Peninsula
This classic Peninsula trip stands out for its generously proportioned cabins, value for money and stylish 114-passenger ship. Spend 4-5 days experiencing Antarctica’s highlights, with optional camping and kayaking. Complimentary hotel stay in Ushuaia and a parka jacket are nice…
- 11-12 Days
- $10,095
4.3 out of 5
Antarctic Fly & Sail Combination
A rare and popular voyage which flies one way and sails the other, maximising both expediency and experience. Spend 5-7 days exploring Antarctica on a small, newly-built expedition ship, with kayaking & snorkelling available. January - March…
- 9-14 Days
- $11,695
4.6 out of 5
Onto the Antarctic Ice
With three medium-sized expedition ships and regular departure dates throughout the season, this well priced voyage is a popular option. Across striking landscapes and icy seas your company will include penguins, seals, whales and skuas. For the adventurous, optional kayaking…
- 10-13 Days
- $10,100
Fly & Cruise
The ultimate shortcut to Antarctica, bypass the Drake Passage and touch down in Antarctica in just two hours. Less sailing, more icebergs.
Special Offers:Swoop has access to the widest range of offers and can help you find the right trip, cabin, & price.
4.5 out of 5
Original Fly & Cruise Luxury Adventure
Fly over the Drake Passage in just 2 hours, both to and from Antarctica. Ideal for those wanting a high comfort level, but who have limited time or are anxious sailors. An outstanding program, successfully operated for over 15 seasons.…
- 8 Days
- $15,295
4.8 out of 5
Original Fly & Cruise Expedition Cruise
Travel with the pioneers of fly & cruise Antarctic voyages, flying in both directions and bypassing a 2-day sail on the Drake Passage. Regular departure dates (Dec - Feb) to choose from. Explore Antarctica aboard a trusty 68-passenger expedition ship…
- 8 Days
- $11,495
4.7 out of 5
Antarctic Fly & Cruise Safari
If you’re keen to fly to Antarctica instead of sailing, this 8-day trip is ideal with a choice of dates in December and February. Travel on outstanding expedition ships with optional kayaking and stand up paddleboarding. Complimentary hotel nights and…
- 8 Days
- $11,995
4.5 out of 5
Express Tour of Antarctica
A cost-effective Antarctic adventure. This itinerary is also ideal for those with limited time wanting to combine Antarctica with time exploring Patagonia. Sailing one way and flying back, you get to combine two iconic places: Antarctica and Cape Horn. Note,…
- 6-7 Days
- $4,995
4.3 out of 5
Antarctic Fly & Sail Combination
A rare and popular voyage which flies one way and sails the other, maximising both expediency and experience. Spend 5-7 days exploring Antarctica on a small, newly-built expedition ship, with kayaking & snorkelling available. January - March…
- 9-14 Days
- $11,695
4.1 out of 5
Fly & Cruise the Antarctic Peninsula
For maximum time in Antarctica with flights both ways, this trip really stands out. An extended fly & cruise voyage spending eight full days actually in Antarctica onboard a small, state-of-the-art expedition ship. Optional kayaking & polar…
- 12 Days
- $15,895
4.1 out of 5
Fly-Sail Antarctica & South Georgia
This unique express trip saves time by flying to Antarctica, cutting out 2 sailing days and skipping the Falklands. Maximising your time amid the spectacular wildlife and scenery of Antarctica and South Georgia is the focus of this voyage. The…
- 17 Days
- $15,495
Luxury & Fine Dining
Opulent adventuring awaits. Return from a day's exploring to your luxury cabin, private balcony and 5* gourmet meals. The highest levels of service and quality of ship anywhere in Antarctica.
Special Offers:Swoop has access to the widest range of offers and can help you find the right trip, cabin, & price.
4.6 out of 5
Antarctic Peninsula Classic
Travelling on board this extremely comfortable ship, explore the highlights of the peninsula with a top class expedition team. Spacious cabins, delicious cuisine and optional adventure activities all help create this ideal marriage of comfort and…
- 12-13 Days
- $11,985
4.7 out of 5
Highlights of the Antarctic Peninsula
Sail to the White Continent aboard one of the most luxurious ships currently available. Unsurpassed comfort and true 5* service are this operator’s hallmarks. From the discreetly attentive, Relais & Chateaux cuisine and 24/7 butler service to the beautifully appointed…
- 11-14 Days
- $13,165
4.5 out of 5
Explore the Antarctic Peninsula
Travelling aboard a state-of-the-art small ship and accompanied by unparalleled onboard expertise, expeditionary cruising doesn’t get much better. Regular departures throughout the season and a choice of three outstanding ships renowned for their comfort, enhanced safety features and spirit of…
- 12 Days
- $15,840
For a fantastic introduction to Antarctica, travelling on board a luxury 108-passenger ship at a very reasonable price, look no further. Very few Antarctic voyages include so much, making this trip a real ‘steal’: Buenos Aires hotel, domestic flights, all…
- 10 Days
- $11,795
Travelling aboard a modern, luxury, custom built expedition ship offering cabins with private balconies, excellent amenities, speed through the water and outstanding food, all you’ve got to do is sit back and enjoy the adventure. The all-inclusive price provides very…
- 16-17 Days
- $16,324
Alex says
In Wilhelmina Bay a humpback twice the length of the zodiac swam directly beneath us. It then exhaled so close I got a mouthful of shrimp-infused whale 'blow'. It's a taste you don't forget!
Alex Mudd Head of Swoop Antarctica
The Antarctic Peninsula: FAQs
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How will I get there?
The majority of cruises to the Antarctic Peninsula set sail from the Argentine city of Ushuaia. You can fly to Ushuaia direct direct from Buenos Aires (3hr 40min duration) - both LAN and Aerolineas Argentinas run several flights per day.
After a night in Ushuaia you embark your Antarctic ship and head out along the sheltered waters of the Beagle Channel. The crossing to Antarctica takes around two days, although this will very much be influenced by weather conditions. As you get closer to Antarctica, icebergs drifting north out of the Weddell Sea will start to be sighted.
Most cruises first reach the South Shetland Islands, which are part of Antarctica but lie 75 miles west of the Peninsula. This is also where the landing strip is on King George Island for those flying direct from Punta Arenas.
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How many days is a typical Antarctic Peninsula cruise?
These Antarctica voyages are typically 10 to 12 days in duration, giving you 4-5 actual days in Antarctica exploring. Some itineraries include a night's hotel accommodation in Ushuaia prior to embarkation on Day 2.
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Will there be experienced guides and naturalists on board?
Yes, definitely. Your expeditionary staff are a crucial part of your Antarctic experience, accompanying you throughout. They not only provide set lectures during your voyage, but also add immense value with information and context during actual landings. They're always on hand to answer any questions and are a mine of information on all related subjects.
Each member of the expeditionary team is an expert in their respective field, many having spent literally years in Antarctica. They report to the expeditionary leader, who along with the ship's captain is responsible for the whole voyage.
Find out more about what you will do on an Antarctic cruise
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How much does an Antarctic Peninsula Cruise cost?
A classic Antarctic Peninsula cruise sailing from Ushuaia typically costs from around $6,000 USD to over $30,000 USD per person based on a twin cabin and depending on the size of ship, category of cabin and comfort level of your ship which you decide upon, and the month in which you travel. If you prefer to fly to Antarctica, you pay a premium for this, with prices from around $11,600 USD per person based on a twin cabin for a similar amount of time in Antarctica.
Read Swoop's guide to Antarctic costs
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How far in advance should I start planning my trip?
Typically you should be looking to book your Antarctic trip at least 12-18 months in advance to be confident of securing your first choice of ship, voyage date and cabin. Many people are surprised by this, being used to booking their holidays with a far shorter lead time, however Antarctic is different and with a finite amount of cabins and boats, those booking late will find their choice significantly reduced from those who plan ahead.
Find out about early booking incentives
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What is the weather like on the Antarctic Peninsula?
The Antarctic Peninsula has it's own climate region which is milder than the rest of Antarctica. Winter temperatures drop to around -10°C while summer highs, generally in January, see temperatures just above freezing. The eastern coast is the driest area of the peninsula and the western coast sees the highest rainfall. During the peak of summer sunlight shines for 20+ hours of the day, winds calm, and skies are often clear – but conditions can always change quickly.
Perhaps more valuable to know is how the weather lends to distinct experiences of the Peninsula throughout the season. Define when your best time to visit Antarctica might be here.
Why Swoop
Expert Impartial Advice At No Extra Cost
Antarctic travel options are complicated. We help you choose the right ship, the right cabin, and at the right point in the season.
A Depth Of Knowledge On Board
As a team of ex-guides, tour leaders, & polar adventurers our Antarctic knowledge is leagues ahead of the rest.
For The Ends Of The Earth
Swoop is proud to be B Corp Certified as we know sustainability is more than our carbon footprint (but we’re reducing that too).
We’re With You At Every Step
We’ll make sure you have the adventure of a lifetime.
Discover more about Antarctica
Luxury Antarctica Cruises
From the comfort of the cabins to the expertise of the expedition leaders, luxury Antarctica cruise ships deliver uncompromised, first-class adventuring.
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Antarctica Cruises
We've teamed up with some of the best cruise operators so that you can choose from over 80 cruise itineraries based on your dates, budget and appetite for adventure.
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The Best Time to Visit Antarctica
Choosing the best time to visit Antarctica is an essential part of the planning process. Each month's distinctive weather and wildlife offer a different side of the region.
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 150 years of Antarctic experience between us, we can help guide you to exactly the right trip for you.
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