
Christmas in Antarctica
Experience the magic of Christmas on the White Continent, with snow-dusted scenery, iconic Antarctic wildlife and sparkling ice sculptures. Head south, party with the penguins and make it a festive season to remember.
5 reasons to visit Antarctica at Christmas
- A guaranteed white Christmas
- It's a wonderful time to visit, just as the penguin chicks are hatching
- Over 22 hours of daylight each day maximises time to explore
- You may be able to take advantage of public holidays in the Christmas break
- By late December/ early January humpback whales have returned to Antarctica

Adelie penguins at sunset, Antarctica

Sunset on the ice, Antarctica

Kayaking into the Antarctic sunset

Mountaineering, Antarctica

Whales at Neko Harbour, Antarctica

King penguins in the snow

Sunset over the mountains, Antarctica

Swoop says
We love the end of December, it usually has the best weather and then there's the suspense of seeing penguin chicks that have just hatched - an incredible sight. Keep your binoculars handy!
Our Favourite Christmas Cruises
4.2 out of 5
Antarctic Basecamp Adventure
The ultimate Antarctic adventure, this trip is specifically for the active traveller. Spend 6 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…
- 12-13 Days
- $10,200
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
- $13,995
4.1 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
- $10,995
4.6 out of 5
Onto the Antarctic Ice
With four 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
- $10,000
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
- $10,995

What our customers think of Christmas in Antarctica
Most memorable moment: coming across dozens and dozens of feeding humpback whales one morning. Some of them came right up to the ship! Read the full review
Travelled: December 2021
Mohit Kallianpur - USA
Christmas morning. Waking up to kayak in water surrounded by ice chunks. A minke whale pops up right as we are switching the zodiacs. The sun came out for the first time and it was magical. Read the full review
Travelled: December 2019
Katie Salva - United States Of America
Review:
Antarctica in December

A fantastic time to visit the 7th Continent for a guaranteed white Christmas! Enjoy festive hosting onboard your expedition vessel, as well as plenty of wildlife sightings to keep your experience magical. The weather is excellent in the festive time period, and with penguin chicks beginning to hatch, you'll certainly have lots of photographs to treasure your time at the end of the world.
Christmas Antarctica Cruises in 2023
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
- 17-Dec-2023
- 2 other departures
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…
- 14 Days
- $15,380
- 18-Dec-2023
- 5 other departures
Looking to climb the highest peak of the Great White Continent? Over 12 days, this expertly guided trip will help you complete your 7 Summits challenge, beginning and ending with flights between Chile and Antarctica and everything taken care of…
- 12 Days
- $52,000
- 18-Dec-2023
- 1 other departure
For a truly 5 star Southern Ocean experience, this is the voyage to consider. Cosseted aboard the most luxurious, all-inclusive expedition ships currently in Antarctica, enjoy outstanding cuisine, impeccable service and daily guided…
- 19 Days
- $19,375
- 18-Dec-2023
- 1 other departure
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
- $13,041
- 18-Dec-2023
- 2 other departures
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
- $9,895
- 19-Dec-2023
4.1 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
- $8,995
- 20-Dec-2023
- 2 other departures
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
- $12,295
- 20-Dec-2023
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
- $12,995
- 21-Dec-2023
- 2 other departures
4.4 out of 5
Discover South Georgia, Antarctica and Falklands
This voyage stands out by visiting the Antarctic Peninsula first and keeping the wonders of South Georgia for the second half. Plus you’ll be travelling on board one of the most exciting new Polar ships with spacious cabins, state-of-the-art technology…
- 19-25 Days
- $21,695
- 21-Dec-2023
4.7 out of 5
Quest for the Antarctic Circle
Aboard a very capable and spacious 134-passenger vessel, spend 7 days exploring the Peninsula with the planned highlight being reaching the Polar Circle. This 14-day trip benefits from spacious cabins and outer decks, and the option to camp out or…
- 14 Days
- $9,399
- 21-Dec-2023
4.2 out of 5
Antarctic Basecamp Adventure
The ultimate Antarctic adventure, this trip is specifically for the active traveller. Spend 6 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…
- 12-13 Days
- $8,400
- 23-Dec-2023
- 2 other departures
4.3 out of 5
Antarctica, South Georgia & Falklands Revealed
Purpose-built to tackle polar waters, an eco-minded vessel makes the ocean crossing between Antarctica and the wildlife Eden of South Georgia as comfortable as possible. Traverse the breathtaking Antarctic Sound where huge tabular icebergs dwarf the ship and immerse yourself…
- 19 Days
- $11,990
- 23-Dec-2023
4.4 out of 5
South Shetland Islands & Antarctica Voyage
A classic 10-day voyage to the Great White Continent. Perfect for those wanting great value and comfortable accommodation. Sailing onboard a stable 198 passenger vessel that has recently been fully refurbished.…
- 10 Days
- $6,990
- 26-Dec-2023
- 1 other departure
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
- $10,795
- 26-Dec-2023
- 2 other departures
This fantastic trip covers all the must-see highlights of an extended Antarctic expedition. With 21 nights aboard, you will venture far south past vast icebergs to cross the Antarctic Circle, before taking in jaw-dropping king penguin colonies in the…
- 23 Days
- $23,895
- 27-Dec-2023
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
- $8,895
- 28-Dec-2023
- 1 other departure
4.6 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
- $22,175
- 29-Dec-2023
4.4 out of 5
66 Degrees South Fly Cruise
By offering time saving flights, extended time in Antarctica and the chance to reach the Polar Circle, this 10-day voyage maximises the polar experience. Minimum travel time & maximum exploring time and all the benefits of only 73 people…
- 10 Days
- $15,495
- 1-Jan-2024
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
- $7,399
- 2-Jan-2024
4.1 out of 5
Falklands, South Georgia & Antarctic Adventure
With a good choice of departure dates through the season across four 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
- 4-Jan-2024
- 1 other departure
4.6 out of 5
Onto the Antarctic Ice
With four 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
- $7,900
- 5-Jan-2024
3.9 out of 5
Explore Antarctica, South Georgia and Falklands
On a long voyage with so many days at sea, the journey is made more enjoyable aboard this comfortable, well appointed 4* ship with its capacious cabins and dedicated staff. Choice of 17-23 day departures per season, with optional kayaking…
- 17-23 Days
- $13,595
- 6-Jan-2024
Christmas Antarctica Cruises in 2022
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
- 17-Dec-2024
- 2 other departures
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
- $9,895
- 18-Dec-2024
For a truly 5 star Southern Ocean experience, this is the voyage to consider. Cosseted aboard the most luxurious, all-inclusive expedition ships currently in Antarctica, enjoy outstanding cuisine, impeccable service and daily guided…
- 19 Days
- $19,375
- 18-Dec-2024
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…
- 14 Days
- $15,380
- 19-Dec-2024
- 2 other departures
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
- $13,041
- 19-Dec-2024
- 1 other departure
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
- $12,995
- 21-Dec-2024
- 2 other departures
4.7 out of 5
Quest for the Antarctic Circle
Aboard a very capable and spacious 134-passenger vessel, spend 7 days exploring the Peninsula with the planned highlight being reaching the Polar Circle. This 14-day trip benefits from spacious cabins and outer decks, and the option to camp out or…
- 14 Days
- $9,399
- 21-Dec-2024
4.2 out of 5
Antarctic Basecamp Adventure
The ultimate Antarctic adventure, this trip is specifically for the active traveller. Spend 6 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…
- 12-13 Days
- $8,400
- 25-Dec-2024
- 1 other departure
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
- $8,895
- 26-Dec-2024
4.6 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
- $22,175
- 28-Dec-2024
4.4 out of 5
66 Degrees South Fly Cruise
By offering time saving flights, extended time in Antarctica and the chance to reach the Polar Circle, this 10-day voyage maximises the polar experience. Minimum travel time & maximum exploring time and all the benefits of only 73 people…
- 10 Days
- $15,495
- 1-Jan-2025
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
- $7,399
- 2-Jan-2025
4.1 out of 5
Falklands, South Georgia & Antarctic Adventure
With a good choice of departure dates through the season across four 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
- 4-Jan-2025
- 1 other departure
3.9 out of 5
Explore Antarctica, South Georgia and Falklands
On a long voyage with so many days at sea, the journey is made more enjoyable aboard this comfortable, well appointed 4* ship with its capacious cabins and dedicated staff. Choice of 17-23 day departures per season, with optional kayaking…
- 17-23 Days
- $13,595
- 5-Jan-2025
4.6 out of 5
Onto the Antarctic Ice
With four 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
- $7,900
- 6-Jan-2025
Undecided on When to Travel?
Read Swoop's guide on choosing the best month and year for you, with advice on how to plan your perfect Antarctic voyage.
Ready to plan your Antarctic adventure?
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With over 50 years of Antarctic experience between us, we can help guide you to exactly the right trip for you.
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