South Shetland Islands Cruise Guide

Key Takeaways

• You’ll find three penguin species in the South Shetland Islands: Chinstrap, Gentoo and Adélie penguins. Your ship will organise daily Zodiac boat trips, letting you get up close to seals and other Antarctic wildlife.
• Your journey starts from either Ushuaia or Punta Arenas. These ports connect you directly to the South Shetland Islands, your first stop in Antarctica.
• You should visit in November-December to see thriving penguin colonies and dramatic icebergs. Choose February-March if you want to spot whales.
• You can save 10-30% on your cruise by booking 8 months early. This also gives you the best choice of cabins on ships like Ocean Victory or Plancius.
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When to Book Your Trip

When to Book Your South Shetland Islands Cruise

Book your cruise 8 months ahead to get the best experience and save money. You can receive 10-30% off with early bird discounts, plus first choice of popular activities like kayaking and camping.

Early booking lets you:

• Choose your ideal cabin
• Plan your favourite activities
• Secure the best travel dates

Pick your month based on what you want to see:

• January: Best overall weather and wildlife viewing
• November/December: Pristine penguin colonies and dramatic icebergs
• February/March: Prime whale watching and milder temperatures

Last-minute bookings might cost you more. You’ll face:

• Higher flight prices
• Limited cabin selection
• Fewer activity options

Your best option is to plan ahead and book early to get exactly what you want from your Antarctic adventure.

Routes and Destinations

Your Antarctic cruise journey starts from one of two main departure points.

You’ll either sail from Ushuaia, Argentina, crossing the Drake Passage, or fly from Punta Arenas straight to King George Island.

The standard sea route takes you through these key stops:

• South Shetland Islands, your first Antarctic landing point
• Elephant Island, where Shackleton’s crew found shelter
• Deception Island, featuring active volcanic pools
• Greenwich Island’s Yankee Harbour, home to Gentoo penguins
• Livingston Island, known for its dramatic mountain views
• Multiple research stations along the Antarctic Peninsula

You can save sailing time by choosing a fly-cruise option.

This lets you skip the Drake Passage and start your adventure directly from King George Island.

At the end of your trip, you’ll either fly back to Punta Arenas or sail to Ushuaia, depending on your chosen route.

Your daily exploration happens through Zodiac boat trips, letting you get close to wildlife and step onto Antarctic ground.

Each landing spot offers you different views of Antarctic life, from penguin colonies to scientific research in action.

Wildlife Encounters

The South Shetland Islands let you witness Antarctica’s remarkable wildlife up close.

You’ll find three penguin species here: Chinstrap, Gentoo and Adélie penguins gather in large colonies on beaches and slopes. You can watch Weddell seals resting on ice whilst leopard seals hunt penguins near the shore.

You’ll spot humpback whales and orcas feeding in the rich waters of the Bransfield and Gerlache Straits. Above you, seabirds like sooty shearwaters, giant petrels and Antarctic skuas glide through the air.

Two main spots, Baily Head and Hannah Point, offer you the best views of penguin colonies and seal groups.

You must follow visitor guidelines to protect these special places. These rules help preserve the wildlife and their habitats for future visitors to enjoy.

Selecting Your Cruise Ship

Ready to pick your Antarctic cruise ship? You’ll find several great options sailing to the South Shetland Islands.

For 10-day trips, you can sail on:

• Ocean Victory
• Ocean Albatros

For exploration-focused voyages, choose from:

• m/v Plancius
• Ortelius
• Hondius

For luxury experiences, consider:

• Silver Wind
• Silver Endeavour
• Silver Cloud

Your journey starts from:

• Ushuaia, Argentina
• Punta Arenas, Chile

Travel dates cover:

• December 2024
• Selected dates in 2025

Prices begin at €5,600 on m/v Plancius, with costs varying per ship.

Every ship provides:

• Expert Expedition Teams
• Zodiac landing crafts
• Free expedition parkas
• Educational lectures
• Photo workshops
• Guided excursions

You’ll get these features to make the most of your Antarctic adventure, regardless of which ship you choose.

Essential Trip Preparation

Getting Ready for Your South Shetland Islands Trip

Pack Your Essential Gear:

• Waterproof jacket and trousers (15,000mm rating minimum)
• Thermal base layers for warmth
• Waterproof daypack for excursions
• Polarised sunglasses with UV protection

Your Safety Requirements:

You must join safety briefings that cover:

• Antarctic protocols
• Wildlife guidelines
• Environmental protection
• Daily expedition activities

Your Journey Details:

• The Drake Passage crossing can be rough
• You’ll explore via Zodiac boats
• You can visit shore locations with guides

Your Additional Needs:

• Buy travel insurance before departure
• Budget for extra activities like kayaking
• Plan for additional costs:
• Special excursions
• Drinks beyond tea and coffee
• Weather-dependent activities (snowshoeing)

Weather and activities can change quickly in Antarctica.

Your expedition team will keep you updated about daily plans and conditions.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Use My Regular Mobile Phone During the South Shetland Islands Cruise?

Your mobile phone will work in the South Shetland Islands, but reception is very limited. Switch to airplane mode to avoid costly roaming charges and connect to the ship’s Wi-Fi instead. The ship offers Wi-Fi packages you can purchase for your journey. This approach helps you stay connected whilst managing your costs effectively.

Are Vegetarian and Special Dietary Options Available Throughout the Cruise?

Yes, you’ll find vegetarian options at every mealtime aboard Oceanwide and Polartours cruises. You need to tell the cruise line about your dietary needs when you book. The kitchen teams can handle most dietary requirements, including:

• Vegetarian meals
• Vegan options
• Gluten-free dishes
• Food allergies
• Religious dietary needs

Let the cruise line know your requirements at least 30 days before sailing to ensure proper arrangements.

What Happens if Someone Needs Emergency Medical Care During the Expedition?

You’ll receive immediate care from our onboard medical team if you face a health emergency. Weather conditions will affect evacuation times, which typically take 24-48 hours. Our team will transport you to the nearest medical facility when needed. The expedition route includes pre-planned emergency exit points and evacuation procedures to ensure your safety.

Can Children Under 12 Participate in South Shetland Islands Cruises?

You can take children under 12 on South Shetland Islands cruises. Most cruise lines welcome families, but you should check their specific age policies before booking. Your children will need your supervision throughout the journey. Some activities may have age restrictions for safety reasons. You’ll find that cruise operators maintain different rules about the minimum age for specific excursions and onshore activities.

Is Seasickness Common, and What Medications Are Recommended for the Journey?

Seasickness affects many travellers in the Drake Passage, but you can manage it effectively. You should take anti-motion sickness medicines like Phenergan or Antivert before symptoms start. Your doctor can recommend the best medication for your needs. You’ll feel more comfortable staying in a midship cabin, where the ship’s movement is less noticeable. Pack your medication well before departure to ensure a smoother journey.