Deception Island

Deception Island is one of several islands making up the South Shetland Islands and may be one of the first places that you visit upon arrival in Antarctica, and en-route to the Peninsula itself. Deception Island is one of the more sheltered harbours in Antarctica and thus a great place for zodiac boat excursions that bring you on to land.

Deception island used to be home to a whaling station, the remains of which can still be seen today, but is now principally visited for its colonies of Chinstrap penguins, as well as its magnificent volcanic landscape. If you're brave enough you can also don your swimsuit and dig into the hot sands of the beach, which heat the ice-cold water around the edge of the island, before setting sail to visit some of the other South Shetland Islands including Livingston Island (where Macaroni penguins have made their home).

Find out more about visiting the South Shetland Islands and the Antarctic Peninsula

Map of Deception Island

Nearby landmarks

Trips that visit Deception Island

Flexibility is the key to success in Antarctica. All voyage routes take advantage of the ever-changing opportunities provided by nature, crafting a unique and extraordinary experience each time.

Special Offers:Swoop has access to the widest range of offers and can help you find the right trip, cabin, & price.

Spend 6 full days exploring Antarctica with the Polar Circle at 66 degrees south as your most southerly objective, on board one of the most exciting new vessels. Limited to only 132 passengers with spacious cabins, state-of-the-art technology and optional…

  • 12-15 Days
  • $16,195

Soak up the spectacular wildlife and landscapes of the Antarctic Peninsula from the ultra comfort of this modern, luxury ship. Balance time exploring ashore with sumptuous relaxation on board, where your every need is catered to by the highly-trained onboard…

  • 12 Days
  • $10,304

A classic 10-day voyage to the White Continent. Perfect for those wanting great value and comfortable accommodation. Sail aboard a purpose-built X-bow expedition ship with an average of 175…

  • 9-12 Days
  • $6,990

This impressive Polar Circle voyage combines all the comfort and expediency of flying in both directions with extended time in Antarctica (7 full days). Choice of two outstanding ships, both very well-appointed, offering optional adventure activities.…

  • 11 Days
  • $14,295

Setting sail ​early in the season, be aboard ​one of the ​first ship​'s to head​ south ​as the Southern Ocean re-opens for business​. It's a special time in South Georgia with the beaches packed with breeding elephant seals, while Antarctica…

  • 21 Days
  • $12,600

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

Voyage south in Shackleton’s footsteps, exploring the highlights of the Southern Ocean as part of this ‘classic’ 20-day adventure. A well-balanced itinerary and the choice between 2 well-appointed expedition ships (capacity 128-199 guests) really marks this trip out. Plus, you…

  • 20 Days
  • $17,895

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
  • $15,380

With a good choice of departure dates through the season across three medium-sized ships, this 19-23 day trip stands out for its value for money and the broad range of cabin categories available, including Quads, which are…

  • 19 - 22 Days
  • $14,750