Seaventure
The Seaventure features the highest ice class awarded to passenger vessels, a sauna, a fitness center, a custom-built citizen science lab, a heated saltwater pool and much more.
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Guide To Antarctic Cruise Ships
Choosing the right ship is one of the most important decisions when planning your Antarctic adventure, not least because of the amount of time you will spend onboard. Consider these key tips to help you find the best expedition cruise company for you:
- Decide on your key decision-making criteria and prioritise them - size of ship, passenger capacity, stability, comfort level or activities on offer.
- The widest choice of ships are in the medium-sized category, from 80 to 116 passengers. They have a good balance between not being too big, while having generous public areas and a decent choice of cabins.
- If stability is high on your list, consider larger ships, or those renowned for their stability.
- Smaller ships of less than 100 passengers have many benefits, such as ease of logistics when getting on and off the ship, a more intimate overall experience, and everybody being able to land at once. These are counterbalanced by the better onboard facilities and greater stability offered by larger vessels.
- Comfort and service levels have markedly improved over the last decade on all Antarctic ships, allowing you to have an adventure, but without the hardship! Nespresso machines, balcony suites, gourmet cuisine and even butler service are now available on selected ships.
- Camping out on the ice and kayaking are offered on most vessels as optional adventure activities. A limited number of ships also offer diving, snorkelling, paddle-boarding or snowshoeing and mountaineering.
Swoop says
We know how important finding the right ship is, but with so much choice it can also be bewildering. Our first hand knowledge of the ships is unparalleled and we can help you find exactly the right one.
Listen to Molly's expert advice
Comfort and adventure
For adventure seekers who would prefer more of a floating hotel as their base. Typically a little more spacious, with more variation in cabins, you'll have more choice while on board while still getting out and about during the day.
Magellan Explorer
The smallest and newest purpose-built expedition ship. Specifically built for Antarctic fly-cruise operations, the Magellan Explorer carries a maximum of 76 guests for fly cruises,…
Discover MoreGreg Mortimer
With its eye-catching futuristic design and advanced onboard technology, the Greg Mortimer is unquestionably redefining the look of expedition ships in the Polar Regions. This ship…
Discover MoreUltramarine
Ultra by name, ultra by nature. With its elegant lines, onboard helicopters, contemporary styling, spacious balconied cabins and the widest range of adventure activities, this ship…
Discover MoreNational Geographic Endurance
With its cutting edge stabilising X-bow design and ice-strengthened hull, this stylish European-built ship was specifically designed for polar expeditions and is packed full of …
Discover MoreWorld Explorer
A state-of-the-art ship that launched in 2018, the World Explorer sets the bar high with a fast average cruising speed, generously appointed cabins each with a balcony, and a …
Discover MoreHondius
A purpose built expedition vessel for 170 passengers. The addition of stabilizers and state-of-the-art technology make her a comfortable and safe option.
Discover MoreOcean Adventurer
Refurbished for her 128 guests in 2017 and with a stunning history of polar exploration this is one of the Grand Dames of Antarctica
Discover MoreSylvia Earle
Launched in Autumn 2022, this state-of-the-art ship honours the highly accomplished marine biologist and oceanographer, Sylvia Earle. Sister ship to the Greg Mortimer, this ship …
Discover MorePlancius
A former Dutch Navy research ship, the Plancius is a practical and highly capable expedition ship with a recent full re-fit to take 108 guests.
Discover MoreMS Expedition
Blessed with a huge amount of deck space this is a great ship for the 136 passengers. A well-established team makes it a great atmosphere on board.
Discover MoreNational Geographic Resolution
This stylish European-built ship was specifically designed for polar expeditions. It's packed full of unique features to really enhance your Antarctic experience along with its …
Discover MoreSea Spirit
The Sea Spirit offers elegant style and spacious cabins for her 114 guests to travel in comfort at an affordable price.
Discover MoreNational Geographic Explorer
A class act from the pioneers of polar travel, the Explorer carries 148 guests in great comfort.
Discover MoreOcean Victory
As an X-BOW® - Infinity Class, Ocean Victory provides improved stability in rough weather and high waves. Generously-sized cabins and communal spaces along with a comprehensive …
Discover MoreMS Adventurer
Spacious cabins, panoramic public areas, high ice-rating and outstanding expedition staff make this 140 guest ship a fabulous base for exploration.
Discover MoreOcean Endeavour
Most often found in Antarctica and South Georgia during the Austral summer and in the Canadian Arctic and West Greenland during the boreal summer, she offers a spacious and …
Discover MoreOcean Albatros
The brand new Ocean Albatros boasts generously-sized cabins and communal spaces. Coupled with a comprehensive wellness area, it promises a comfortable base for your Antarctic …
Discover MoreSH Diana
SH Diana offers relaxed elegance with a contemporary feel, for those desiring style and comfort without pretension.
Discover MoreSH Vega
SH Vega offers laidback Scandi elegance with a contemporary boutique feel, for those wanting style and comfort without ostentation.
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Alex says
The first thing to think about is what's important to you - adventure, wildlife, comfort, the ship's stability, food or activities? Once established, we can then help guide you to the most well matched ships for you.
Alex Mudd Polar Specialist
Luxury ships
These vessels rival a luxury hotel in their service and facilities. Akin to a super-yacht cruise ship, you'll be surrounded by grandeur whilst onboard, with some of the highest standards in the industry. Landings are still a key part of the voyage, so expect to be out and about each day.
Silver Endeavour
With luxury, comfort and exceptional service as the foundations of its onboard experience, the Silver Endeavour is purported to be one of the most expensive expedition ships ever …
Discover MoreLe Boreal, L'Austral, Le Soleal & Le Lyrial
Purpose built expedition ships with state of the art luxury. These ships offer 5* service for their 200 guests travelling in serious comfort.
Discover MoreSilver Cloud
After a multi-million dollar refit in 2017 this luxury vessel has become the last word in luxury for adventurers, with fine dining and butler service to boot.
Discover MoreSilver Wind
An elegant option for those looking to explore in comfort, this 274 passenger ship was thoughtfully refitted for polar travel in 2021, allowing it the versatility to move …
Discover MoreLe Commandant Charcot
A uniquely versatile ship combining the incredible power of an icebreaker with the ultra comfort of a luxury cruise vessel.
Discover MoreSeabourn Venture
Offering a luxury expedition cruising experience, Seabourn Venture allows you to explore without compromising on comfort.
Discover MoreSeabourn Pursuit
This elegant and very capable 264 guest ship boasts innovative design throughout and the unique opportunity to explore Antarctica throug the use of its submarines.
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What our customers think of Antarctic Cruise Ships
Antarctic Cruise Ships trips scored 4.4/5 from 576 reviews
There were 98 passengers on board the Island Sky and we were surprised by the age range, 22 to 78 with an average of 62. It made for a wonderful atmosphere with people mixing to chat and eat together. Read the full review
Travelled: February 2019
David Irwin - United Kingdom
Good choice for the size of the expedition cruise ship. Excellent throughout the whole progress. Thank you very much, John. Read the full review
Travelled: February 2019
Mei Mei Mai - United States Of America
The expedition team went out of their way to make it the best experience possible for us. They were very personal in their approach and always willing to spend time individually with passengers.
Travelled: February 2018
Sue - Australia
Glad we were on a smaller ship with only around 120 guests so we never felt overcrowded on any of the shore landings. You could feel close to nature all the time.
Travelled: January 2018
Zoltan & Stephen Nemeth - Florida
The crew on Plancius were fantastic, very knowledgeable, exceptionally professional and very accommodating. I met some great and very interesting people among both divers and passengers. Surprises included the quality of the service, expedition staff on Plancius, and restaurant quality meals!
Travelled: March 2017
Erika - Australia
Julie and I have just returned from our Swoop adventure. In a word, it was sensational. Everything was terrific: the ship, the hotel and the expedition team; thank you for making this trip possible. We will recommend you to all who want to share this incredible journey.
Travelled: February 2017
Larry - California
Review:
Authentic expedition ships
Adventure runs right through these ships. These are often the ex-research vessels with stories to tell and expeditionary hearts. They're capable of getting almost anywhere, a perfect quality on voyages which are all about the landings, and getting you into the heart of Antarctica.
Ocean Nova
Built to ply the ice-choked waters of Western Greenland, the very popular Ocean Nova is a capable and comfortable ship carrying just 67 passengers.
Discover MoreOrtelius
An outstanding expedition ship with a hard-won reputation for navigating some of the Polar region's most challenging waters, carrying just 108 guests.
Discover MoreOcean Tramp
A 66ft swift sailboat with plenty of live aboard space and storage for expedition equipment.
Discover MoreOur best voyages to 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
4.6 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
4.5 out of 5
South Georgia, Antarctica and Falklands Explorer
Looking for an Antarctic adventure without compromising on comfort and service? This stylish 139-passenger ship, with its cavernous suites, fine dining and compelling itinerary, offers a very polished Southern Ocean adventure, at a fair…
- 21 Days
- $19,795
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 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
4.1 out of 5
Falklands, South Georgia & Antarctic Adventure
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
- $13,550
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
Ready 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.
1-855-369-8288