Antarctic Circle Cruise Guide

Key Takeaways

• You’ll find optimal sailing conditions from January to mid-February, with 20 hours of daylight and plenty of wildlife to spot.
• Your cruise will start from Ushuaia, Argentina. Expect to spend 13-23 days total, with 4-7 days exploring Antarctica itself.

You can pick between two main routes:

• Standard Peninsula route
• Extended route including the Falklands and South Georgia

You’ll need to pack these essentials:

• Thermal base layers
• Waterproof jacket and trousers
• Polarised sunglasses
• Waterproof pouches for your gear

If you travel in late season (mid-February to March), you’ll enjoy:

• Better chances of whale watching
• Easier landing access
• Fewer tourists at viewing spots

When to Take Your Voyage

Save This Pin

Antarctica’s Cruise Season Guide

Peak Season (January to mid-February).

You’ll experience:

• 20 hours of daylight
• Temperatures up to 10°C
• Calmer seas
• Maximum wildlife activity
• Higher cruise fares

Early Season (October to December).

You’ll find:

• Pristine snow landscapes
• Temperatures around -2°C
• Lower cruise fares
• Penguin nesting displays
• More challenging sea conditions

Late Season (mid-February to March).

You’ll get:

• Prime whale watching
• Better access to landing sites
• Fur seal sightings
• More competitive prices
• Less crowded sites

Your best choice depends on your priorities:

• Choose peak season for optimal weather
• Pick early season for budget savings
• Select late season for whale watching

Best Routes and Destinations

Save This Pin

Popular Antarctic Routes

You can explore Antarctica through several well-established routes, each offering distinct experiences.

The Antarctic Peninsula route gives you the easiest access to the continent. Here, you’ll spot seals, whales and penguins whilst navigating between ice-filled bays and towering glaciers.

A longer journey combining the Falkland Islands and South Georgia lets you see rare seabirds and visit famous explorer sites. This route takes you through some of the richest wildlife zones in the Southern Ocean.

The fly-cruise option saves you time by flying over the Drake Passage, putting you directly into Antarctic waters.

For deeper exploration, you can choose specialist voyages to:

• The Ross Sea: home to vast ice shelves and Emperor Penguins
• The Weddell Sea: featuring historic expedition huts and dense pack ice

Your journey will likely start in Ushuaia, Argentina. Trips last 13-23 days, with 4-7 days spent in Antarctica itself.

Wildlife Encounters at Sea

Save This Pin

Want to see amazing wildlife in Antarctica? You’ll discover incredible creatures during different seasons of your voyage.

In summer months, you’ll meet three main penguin types: Emperors, Adélies, and Gentoos. These charming birds gather in large groups on ice sheets.

Between February and March, you’ll watch whales break through the surface – including humpbacks, minkes and fins. You’ll also spot orcas hunting in the cold waters.

Your Zodiac boat trips will take you close to seals basking on ice. You’ll find massive elephant seals and swift leopard seals along your route.

Look up, and you’ll catch wandering albatrosses gliding above you. December brings a special treat – seal pups appear in the Falklands and South Georgia.

Want an extra thrill? You can kayak near giant icebergs while humpbacks surface around you.

Or watch penguins’ amusing courtship displays from November to early December. These close-up wildlife encounters make Antarctic journeys truly special.

See what’s on offer from the South Shetland Islands Cruise Guide for a different Antarctic Cruise destination.

Choosing Your Perfect Expedition

Save This Pin

Your Antarctic expedition choice breaks down into three cruise types:

1. Air/Cruise Option
   • Skip Drake Passage with direct flights
   • 9-11 days duration
   • Starts at £18,236 (Ocean Nova ship)
2. Extended Cruise
   • Includes Falklands and South Georgia
   • 23 days duration
   • Costs between £25,196 and £30,796
   • You’ll see more wildlife
3. Ship Choices
   • Ultramarine: You get helicopter trips and private balconies
   • Sea Spirit: You travel with 116 passengers for a closer-knit experience

Every cruise includes:

• Waterproof boots
• Expedition parka
• Daily expert talks

You need to match your choice with:

• Your available time
• Your budget
• Your comfort needs
• Your viewing preferences (deck space, hull strength)

This clear breakdown lets you pick the expedition that fits your travel style and requirements.

Essential Packing and Preparation

Save This Pin

Pack these essentials for your Antarctic expedition.

Essential Clothing:

• Thermal base layers (multiple sets)
• Insulated jackets (mid-layer and heavy)
• Waterproof outer shell
• Warm socks (several pairs)
• Insulated, waterproof trousers

Must-have Accessories:

• Headlamp + spare batteries
• Polarised sunglasses
• Waterproof pouches for electronics
• Basic first aid kit
• Hand warmers
• Sturdy duffel bag or suitcase
• Waterproof daypack

Pre-departure Checklist:

• Check your passport validity
• Pack your regular medications
• Bring basic toiletries
• Include energy-rich snacks

Contact your cruise operator to confirm:

• Which gear they provide
• Whether you need walking poles
• If they supply binoculars

You can ensure a comfortable journey by packing these items systematically. Your clothing choices will keep you warm in changing weather, while your accessories will support your daily activities.

Remember to pack light but smart – you’ll need space for souvenirs!

Frequently Asked Questions

What Medical Facilities Are Available on Antarctic Cruise Ships?

Antarctic cruise ships maintain medical centres staffed by qualified doctors and nurses. You’ll find standard medical equipment for treating common ailments and basic injuries. The facilities can monitor vital signs and provide initial emergency care. Your serious medical conditions will require evacuation to hospitals in South America or Australia. The onboard clinics stock essential medicines and first-aid supplies. Your travel insurance should cover potential evacuation costs, as these can be extremely expensive.

Can I Use My Regular Mobile Phone During the Antarctic Cruise?

Your regular mobile phone service won’t work in Antarctica. The ships provide two main communication options:

1. Wi-Fi internet access
2. Satellite phone services (available for purchase)

These satellite-based services let you stay connected with home whilst exploring the Antarctic waters.

How Rough Are the Seas During Antarctic Circle Crossings?

When crossing the Drake Passage, you’ll experience challenging waters with waves reaching up to 15 metres high. The winds will push hard against your ship, making this stretch one of the world’s choppiest sea journeys. Don’t worry though – the seas become much calmer once you sail beyond the Drake Passage and enter Antarctic waters.

Are Vegetarian and Special Dietary Options Available Throughout the Voyage?

You can find vegetarian meals at all onboard dining venues. The kitchen accommodates special dietary requests when you notify them three weeks before sailing. Pack your preferred snacks as an extra precaution to ensure your dietary needs are always met.

What Photography Equipment Rental Services Are Offered on Board?

Photography equipment rental services aren’t available on Antarctic cruises. You’ll need to pack your own cameras and essential equipment. Remember to bring backup gear to ensure you can capture all the amazing polar moments during your expedition.

Thinking about something different? Check out the Subantarctic Islands Cruise Routes.