Not sure which Antarctic itinerary is right for you? Here’s our guide to Antarctica’s regions.
Ways to Explore Antarctica
Whether you want to see the steep-sided mountains of the Antarctic Peninsula, the enormous king penguin colonies of South Georgia or venture as south as the Antarctic Circle, we’ve got an expedition for you. Check out our map of which expeditions go where.
The Antarctic Peninsula
The Antarctic Peninsula is the most popular location to explore on an adventure to the region. An epic wonderland full of penguins, whales, seals, birds and breath-taking ice formations. The stunning landscape features steep-sided mountains that descend dramatically into the sea. The area is actually a part of the Scotia Arc and a continuation of the Andes mountains – resulting in beautiful steep mountain scenery. You’ll be in awe around every corner.
Spirit of Antarctica
Antarctic Peninsula | 12 Days | Sail Only
This itinerary sails both directions of the Drake, so you can experience a more traditional crossing like the seafarers of old.
Traveling earlier in the season (late Oct-early Jan), this is the perfect trip for those who wish to see penguins building nests and forming colonies, seals having pups on the ice and seabirds forming their nests with chicks hatching.
Activities
You can enjoy snorkelling and kayaking on these voyages, and because they are earlier in the season, take advantage of our special camping on the ice, snowshoeing and ski/snowboard additional activities (additional costs apply).
Antarctic Explorer
Antarctic Peninsula | 11-12 Days | Fly/Sail, Sail/Fly & Fly/Fly
This is a fantastic option for those who wish to incorporate a flight component into their trip, with fly/sail, sail/fly and even fly/fly options available.
This itinerary travels later in the season (early Jan-late of March). This means you will have near 24 hours of daylight, there will be more whales in the peninsula and penguin chicks will be hatching and fledging.
Activities
You can enjoy snorkelling and kayaking on these voyages, as well as scuba diving (additional costs apply).
Venturing South to the Antarctic Circle
Further South as you cross the Antarctic Circle, it feels more remote and even colder, with great swathes of pack-ice and dreamlike icebergs.
Across the Antarctic Circle
Antarctic Peninsula, Antarctic Circle | 12-15 Days | Fly Sail, Sail Only
As the name suggests, our “Across the Antarctic Circle” itinerary ventures where few dare. You’ll explore not only the wonders of the Antarctic Peninsula, but you’ll also join a privileged few who can celebrate crossing the famed Antarctic Circle (as far south as 66 33’ S). Here you will enter a different world that will give you sensory overload like you’ve never felt before.
Activities
In addition to snorkelling and kayaking, you can also do scuba diving, alpine trekking, snowshoeing and camping on the ice (additional costs apply).
Heading East to the Weddell Sea
The Weddell Sea has a very different appearance to the Peninsula, with mountains set further back from the coast coming down to gravelly plains, in what we sometimes call a similar look to the Wild West or Badlands – arid terrain eroded by wind and water.
With harsher weather conditions, it can be more difficult to travel to this side. That also means there will be fewer other ships in the area as you explore the incredible landscapes that characterise the Weddell Sea. Plus you will be rewarded by richer paleontology discoveries as the area is home to many fantastic fossils dating back to 200 million years ago.
Wild Antarctica
Antarctic Peninsula & Weddell Sea | 12 Days | Sail Only
The Wild Antarctica itinerary explores the icy perimeter of the Weddell Sea, as well as the more traditional Antarctic Peninsula. These voyages depart later in the season (Feb/March) so expect somewhat shorter days, tremendous tabular icebergs (further down South) and be awed by the array of wildlife who play and hunt in the Antarctic Sound.
Activities
Additional activities on offer include kayaking, snorkelling and scuba diving (additional costs apply).
South Georgia and the Falklands~Malvinas
South Georgia is known for its enormous king penguin colonies (the largest in the world) and beaches lined with elephant seals and Antarctic fur seals, so this is certainly the area to visit if you are a wildlife enthusiast. In South Georgia, you will also have the opportunity to trace the history of Sir Ernest Shackleton’s perilous journey, and, if conditions allow, retrace parts of his footsteps from Fortuna Bay to Stromness.
The Falklands~Malvinas are steeped in history and are also a beacon for bird lovers, with an incredible diversity of charismatic penguin species including king, macaroni, Southern rockhopper, Magellanic and gentoo. If conditions permit, you will have the chance to visit Stanley, capital of the Falklands~Malvinas, full of terraced town houses, pioneer cottages and even an iconic red telephone box.
South Georgia & Antarctic Odyssey
Antarctic Peninsula, South Georgia & Falkland~Malvinas | 19-21 Days | Sail Only
This voyage encompasses the best of the Antarctic Peninsula and the enchanting wildlife haven of South Georgia. Discover the historic Falklands~Malvinas and stand in awe before the world’s largest king penguin colonies in South Georgia. In Antarctica, experience the serenity and grandeur of the most remote place on earth, where penguins nest, whales feed and captivating seals frolic in ice-speckled seas.
Activities
In addition to kayaking, snorkelling and showshoeing, this itinerary offers the special activity of Shackleton’s crossing (additional costs apply).
Falklands, South Georgia & Antarctic Peninsula
Antarctic Peninsula, South Georgia & Falkland~Malvinas | 21 Days | Sail Only
Take in the wonders of South Georgia and the Antarctic Peninsula, but add in the Falklands too! Similar to the above itinerary, you will have one less day in South Georgia but additional time in the Falklands~Malvinas to discover the fascinating history of the islands and encounter the spectacular birdlife found there.
Activities
On these voyages, you will be able to participate in kayaking, snorkelling and alpine trekking (additional costs apply).
Subantarctic Safari
South Georgia & Falkland~Malvinas | 17 Days | Sail Only
Whilst this voyage does not travel to the Antarctic Peninsula, this itinerary is perfect for wildlife lovers and history buffs who want to take the time to really explore the subantarctic islands of South Georgia and the Falklands~Malvinas.
Activities
In addition to kayaking and snorkelling, this itinerary offers the special activity of Shackleton’s crossing (additional costs apply).
Do you just want it… all?
That’s OK, we’ve crafted the ultimate voyage for you.
Antarctica Complete
South Georgia & Falkland~Malvinas | 23 Days | Sail Only
If you just can’t decide between the wonders of the subantarctic islands, the majesty of the Antarctic Peninsula or the thrill of crossing the coveted Antarctic Circle – this itinerary covers them all.
Over 23 Days, you will have the chance to step ashore on the Antarctic continent to experience unforgettable vistas, raise a glass as you join a small club of people as we attempt to cross the Antarctic Circle and stand in awe at the world’s largest king penguin rookeries of South Georgia.
Activities
Take your adventure to the next level with our kayaking and snorkelling additional activities (additional costs apply).
