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Discover the White Continent
Have you ever dreamed of exploring one of the most remote places on Earth? If you are an avid traveler who wants to discover the polar regions off the beaten path, our expedition cruises are perfect for you.
Experience scenic landscapes, unique wildlife, and the mesmerizing sight of mightly glaciers during a Zodiac cruise. Feel the same excitement as the famous explorers when you finally set foot on the Antarctic Peninsula.
Our expedition ship, the Sea Spirit, is perfectly suited for small group travel to the most remote places in comfort and style. Begin the trip of a lifetime now with the best expedition team on the planet!
Embarking on an Antarctic expedition cruise with Poseidon is a remarkable opportunity to visit Antarctica, as our cruises combine active exploration (we organize up to 2-3 landings a day depending on weather conditions) with utmost comfort and luxury aboard our deluxe expedition vessel, the Sea Spirit.
Highlights of your Antarctic Expedition Cruise
Discover iconic wildlife
It’s not only the penguins and their chicks that will steal your heart in Antarctica. Fur, leopard and elephant seals, as well as an abundance of seabirds will cross paths with us. Imagine iconic wildlife on a beautiful beach on South Georgia Island, with glacier covered mountains in the background.
Planning a Big Year? The most avid birder’s dreams come true on the Falkland Islands, where you can see five different species of penguins and seabirds. And don’t forget to look out for killer and humpback whales!
Experience polar exploration history
Follow in the footsteps of the historic Antarctic explorers! Learn about their courageous adventures. Visit ancient whaling stations on South Georgia and Deception Island and modern research stations on the White Continent.
Expand your horizons
Attend onboard lectures and learn about history, geography, marine biology and photography from our onboard specialists, or join our citizen science projects and work side-by-side with top researchers. Record cloud types, observe wildlife and help collect important data for research projects.
Indulge in our well-stocked polar library aboard the Sea Spirit. Share your passion for the Antarctic with fellow travelers from all over the world and make contacts and memories that will last a lifetime.
As members of the International Association of Antarctica Tour Operators (IAATO), we participate in various projects to protect wildlife and nature. One of the latest projects is the 10km/hour voluntary speed limit in the Gerlache Strait and adjacent whale-rich waters during whale season, launched in 2020.
Join the sea kayak club
This one’s an optional, but very popular feature on all of our cruises. Kayaking gives you the unique option to get closer to the action, surrounded by the most amazing landscapes.
Imagine approaching the icy shore when, suddenly, a group of penguins dives into the water right in front of you! Our sea kayaks are small and stable; therefore, they are easy to maneuver and don’t disturb nature and wildlife.
Camp on the ice
Few adventurers have spent a night in Antarctica and you can become one of them! State-of-the-art equipment will keep you warm throughout the night before you step back aboard our comfortable ship.
Explore polar research stations
Visit Port Lockroy, a functioning scientific station with a museum and gift shop. Make sure you send a post card home from their post office.
Discover the subantarctic islands
Depending on your cruise itinerary, you’ll have the chance to explore the South Shetland Islands (rich in history and wildlife), Enterprise Island (featuring a Norwegian whaling ship wreck), South Georgia Island and the Falklands.
Antarctic Destinations
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Realm of Penguins & Icebergs (Antarctic Peninsula)
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New Year & Christmas in Antarctica (Antarctic Peninsula)
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Antarctic Wildlife Adventure (Falklands, South Georgia and the Antarctic Peninsula)
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Crossing 66º South Latitude (The Antarctic Circle)
Our Antarctic Expedition Cruises
Ushuaia, often referred to as the "gateway to Antarctica," is where most Antarctica cruises begin, offering travelers a convenient starting point to embark on their adventure to explore the breathtaking landscapes of the Antarctic continent. Our once-in-a-lifetime voyages include:
Realm of Penguins & Icebergs (Antarctic Peninsula)
After departing from Ushuaia, Argentina aboard the Sea Spirit, you will cross the infamous Drake Passage. Your first glimpse of Antarctica will be the South Shetland Islands, where you will explore the local history and wildlife. We’ll continue along the Antarctic Peninsula before passing through the Gerlache Strait, surrounded by spectacular mountains, pristine glaciers and icebergs, before heading back to port.
New Year & Christmas in Antarctica (Antarctic Peninsula)
Celebrate the holidays aboard the Sea Spirit and discover the pristine polar wilderness of the Antarctic Peninsula. Leave Ushuaia in Argentina aboard the Sea Spirit and head south across the infamous Drake Passage. Explore the South Shetland Islands, rich in history and wildlife. Immerse yourself in the captivating world of penguin colonies, where you can delight in observing these charismatic creatures as they navigate their daily routines. Prepare yourself for an unforgettable holiday, celebrating with like-minded travelers over gourmet meals, drinks and dances aboard the Sea Spirit. You will never forget your Christmas Antarctica cruise!
Antarctic Wildlife Adventure (Falklands, South Georgia and the Antarctic Peninsula)
You will leave Ushuaia, Argentina aboard the Sea Spirit cruising to the Falkland Islands. For birders this is a real paradise with penguin rookeries and seabirds. Further along, we journey to South Georgia Island, where you will stroll pristine beaches while penguins and seals roam the beautiful landscape. Keep an eye out for the splendid king penguins (distinct from the emperor penguins)! It's an exceptional location to witness their presence and immerse yourself in the incredible array of wildlife that thrives in this area. Explore abandoned whaling stations and learn about the region’s history in the museum in Grytviken.
Crossing 66º South Latitude (The Antarctic Circle)
Take this unique voyage further south than any other cruise. From Ushuaia, Argentina we’ll cross the infamous Drake Passage aboard the Sea Spirit and explore the South Shetland Islands, rich in their own history and wildlife. We then continue on to the Gerlache Strait, framed with glacier-covered mountains and famous for iconic marine mammals and penguins.
We push further south to cross the Antarctic Circle to see the real spirit of the White Continent with bleak white landscapes and harsh weather conditions.
Poseidon offers Antarctica cruises to suit every taste and more. Experience more than just an Antarctica cruise – embark on a photo cruise to the White Continent! Our photo expeditions prioritize photography and accommodate only 100 guests, ensuring an exclusive and personalized experience. Simultaneous landings during our Antarctica cruises guarantee no group rotations, maximizing time to capture stunning images.
Poseidon's Antarctica cruises for photographers prioritize the golden hour – that magical time, perfect for breathtaking shots. Visit Antarctica and create stunning polar moments.
Poseidon's Antarctica cruises for photographers of all skill levels provide expert guidance from photo experts, which will boost your photography skills. Learn new techniques and tips, taking your abilities to the next level. Moreover, during our Antarctica cruises, you will have a chance to connect with like-minded individuals who share your passion for photography and polar love. Exchange tips, experiences, and build lasting connections with fellow photographers aboard.
Antarctica travel guide – get ready for your expedition cruise
When is the best time to take an Antarctic cruise?
The best time to take an Antarctic cruise depends on personal preferences. The Antarctic summer (November to March) offers milder temperatures, abundant wildlife, and stunning ice formations. Early season (November-December) provides snow-covered landscapes, while late season (February-March) offers whale sightings and mesmerizing sunsets. Consult with our experts to tailor your experience. No matter when you choose, an Antarctic expedition cruise promises awe-inspiring scenery and unforgettable adventures.
How to get to Antarctica
Our expedition cruises start in Ushuaia or Buenos Aires, Argentina (depending on your itinerary) where you will board our small expedition ship, the Sea Spirit. Airport pick-up and transfer to the hotel, as well as a one-night accommodation before our trip starts, are included in the price. You will just have to arrange airfare to and from Ushuaia (or Buenos Aires) by yourself. But, of course, we can assist you with booking if needed!
Travel arrangements
Depending on your nationality, you may require a visa to enter Argentina (where the cruise begins). We are happy to advise you on visa arrangements, the required set of documents and can also assist with contacting the relevant consulates.
Interesting facts about Antarctica
- Antarctica is the driest, windiest and coldest continent. The blizzards on the White Continent can lift snow at speeds of up to 320km/h.
- No country owns Antarctica according to the Antarctic Treaty, signed in 1959 (and which came into force on June 23rd, 1961). It’s listed as a nature preserve and place to conduct peaceful activities and science, with 48 nations supporting the agreement.
- Antarctica features a diverse landscape, including Mt. Erebus (an active volcano), Mt. Vinson (the highest peak at 4,892m) and numerous lakes under the ice. One of them, Lake Vostok (a freshwater lake), is covered by 4km-thick ice.
- Antarctica currently hosts 70 permanent research stations representing 29 nations.
Discover the historic explorers of Antarctica
Ronald Amundsen
After Cook and Peary claimed to have reached the North Pole, Amundsen abandoned his target and changed his route to the South Pole. En route to Antarctica in 1910 on the Fram, he reached the Bay of Whales near the eastern edge of the Ross Ice Shelf in January 1911 and set out to the pole in October 1911. Travelling by dogsled and skis proved successful and Amundsen ultimately won the race to the South Pole on December 14th, 1911, a month before Scott’s party.
Robert F. Scott
Scott first journeyed to Antarctica aboard the Discovery expedition in 1901-1904 together with Sir Ernest Shackleton. While not reaching the pole, they were able to collect valuable experience and data. On his second attempt on the Terra Nova Expedition of 1910-1913, he was challenged by Amundsen, who suddenly changed course to the South Pole. Scott started his march on November 1st, 1911. After a grueling march, five men reached the pole on January 17th, 1912, where they found remains of Amundsen’s party. Scott presumably perished on March 29th, 1912 on his return to camp.
Sir Ernest Shackleton
Shackleton’s ill-fated Trans-Antarctic Expedition (1914-17) on the Endurance got trapped in pack ice in the Weddell Sea. Venturing over pack ice, they reached Elephant Island, from which Shackleton and a few men sailed to South Georgia Island in a small lifeboat. Leaving his second-in-command, Frank Wild, back on Elephant Island with the rest of the crew, Shackleton made it safely to South Georgia, where he reached the Stromness whaling station after crossing the island on foot. Every member of the expedition survived.
A typical day aboard our expedition ship
We want to show you the best of the Antarctic and its most breathtaking places. Weather permitting, we will land on pristine shores, hike to beautiful viewpoints and cruise in our small motorized Zodiac boats. Join the kayak club and you can paddle close-up to wildlife and nature at your own pace. But even at days at sea, ship life aboard the Sea Spirit will keep you busy. Visit lectures by our specialists, hit the gym, read books about Antarctica in our polar library, enjoy gourmet meals in our restaurant, meet fellow travelers at the bar or in our coffee and tea lounge, or just enjoy the beautiful views from your comfortable cabin.
When stepping ashore…
While you already get the best views from our small expedition ship, the Sea Spirit, cruising ashore with our Zodiac boats will bring you even closer to the action. These motorized, safe and durable boats are designed for a maximum of 16 passengers and are perfect for ecologically-sound cruising, minimizing your impact on nature and wildlife.
How to keep busy aboard…
Ship life aboard the Sea Spirit, will keep you busy. Enjoy gourmet meals in the restaurant or open-air bistro on deck, or join your fellow travelers for a chat at the bar. Our Salon Club offers coffee and tea 24/7 and snacks in-between meals.
Visit the captain’s bridge to be the first one to spot wildlife. Pick up binoculars, chat with the crew, or just simply enjoy the best views from this part of the ship.
We bring top scientists aboard and encourage our passengers to participate in their research. Check with us on what projects will be available on your cruise.
Stay active during your cruise
Visit our gym whenever you feel the need to stretch your legs or take a stroll on deck and take in the fresh ocean breeze.
FAQ
What important things should I consider when traveling to Antarctica?
- Choose your expedition ship wisely! To get the full experience and make the most of wildlife sightings, landings and activities, join a cruise with less than 200 passengers. You’ll get a more personal experience, get closer to the action and form closer bonds with like-minded fellow travelers!
- Cruise with the best! Choose a company that has many years of experience with a top team. This is important to guarantee your safety and the trip of our lifetime! We at Poseidon Expeditions go the extra mile – we hire the best of the best. We stay up to date on the latest environmental requirements, engage in research and citizen science projects! We are also very proud of being fully in compliance with the Antarctic Treaty and all IAATO requirements.
- Choose your cruise – pick the right itinerary. There are lots of ways to explore the White Continent, so choose the best for you! Typical cruises to Antarctica last for 10-12 nights, with ample time for landings. Cruises from 20 to 24 nights feature not only the Antarctic Peninsula, but also the subantarctic islands like South Georgia and the Falklands.
- Communication and Planning For a trip of a lifetime ensure you have the right travel partner to plan it. Make sure to go with an operator that speaks your language, understands your needs and helps you proactively plan your trip!
Do I need travel insurance?
Yes, you will require travel insurance that covers you for the duration of the cruise. Please ensure that it includes travel to the polar regions and has an evacuation and repatriation coverage for no less than 200,000 USD.
While we do not require it, we do encourage passengers to also have cancellation insurance.
What do I do if I get seasick?
Everyone reacts differently to the occasional, rough water of the Drake Passage. Passengers should consult their personal physician prior to travel to Antarctica and carry the recommended preventative medications at all times. That said, not all Drake Passage crossings are tumultuous.
What clothes do I need to bring?
We recommend layering your clothes, so you can add or subtract based on weather conditions. Start with warm thermal undergarments made from merino wool or synthetics (not cotton), layer with polar fleece, wool and finish off with water and windproof materials. Keep your body warm, but let it breathe! Don’t forget your hats, scarves and gloves. We’ll have our warm expedition parka ready for you aboard, which you can take home with you, as well as rubber boots for landings, which are yours for the duration of the trip.
Click here to review our check-list on what clothes to bring with you!
What currency do you accept for payment on board?
Currency on board is US dollars. At the end of the voyage, you may pay your tab in cash, or with a major credit card (Visa, MasterCard, AMEX). We don’t accept traveler’s cheques.
How cold will it get during my voyage?
We cruise during the Antarctic summer. On the subantarctic islands and the Antarctic Peninsula, temperatures average around 0°C during our cruises.
What is included in the cruise fee?
Airport transfer from Ushuaia to your hotel, as well as the first night, are included in your cruise package. Accommodation aboard the Sea Spirit, all port fees, meals aboard and Zodiac cruises and landings are included. Alcoholic beverages, additional activities such as kayaking and camping are separate.
How much luggage can I bring?
It’s always best to pack for the segment of your flight itinerary that has the smallest baggage allowance requirement - baggage allowances on international flights are often larger than domestic flights. Also, be sure to check with your airline to confirm what you are allowed to carry.
Our ships have laundry facilities. Baggage allowance onboard is 2 pieces per 1 person.
Go to our How to pack page for more details.
Will there be Wi-Fi, phones or mobile coverage aboard?
Our expedition ship, the Sea Spirit, is equipped with Wi-Fi, which is included in the cruise package.
What is the time zone in Antarctica
Antarctica, being a vast and uninhabited continent, does not have a designated time zone of its own. The time zones used in Antarctica are typically based on the time zone of the country or research station operating in that particular region. For example, research stations operated by countries like New Zealand, Australia, and Argentina would follow their respective time zones. Similarly, stations operated by other countries or organizations would adhere to the time zone of their home base. As Antarctica is primarily used for scientific research and doesn't have any permanent residents, the concept of time zone is more practical and logistical rather than a reflection of local inhabitants' daily routines.
Are Antarctica cruises expensive?
Antarctica cruises offer a range of options to suit different preferences and budgets. The cost of an Antarctic cruise can vary depending on factors such as trip duration, vessel type, and included activities. We believe that the value of an Antarctic cruise lies in the unparalleled experiences and breathtaking sights that await you. Embark on an unforgettable journey to this pristine and awe-inspiring destination, where you'll have the chance to witness stunning landscapes and encounter unique wildlife. Explore the wonders of Antarctica with us and discover a world of adventure, beauty, and discovery. Contact us today to discuss the various cruise options available and find the one that suits your desires.
How far in advance do I need to book an Antarctic cruise?
To secure the best cabins and take advantage of early bird discounts, it's recommended to book your Antarctica cruise as early as possible. Availability is limited, and by booking well in advance, you increase your chances of choosing your preferred dates, accommodations, and enjoying cost-saving benefits. Don't delay, it is high time to visit Antarctica! Start planning your extraordinary Antarctica cruise today!
Are this trips a good choice for solo travelers?
Antarctica cruises are an excellent choice for solo travelers seeking unforgettable experiences and unique adventures. Joining an Antarctic expedition provides a fantastic opportunity to meet like-minded individuals from around the world who share a passion for exploration and discovery. You'll have the chance to connect with fellow travelers, forge new friendships, and create lasting memories together. The supportive and inclusive environment on board ensures that solo travelers feel welcome and part of the expedition community. Embark on a solo journey to Antarctica and immerse yourself in the beauty and wonder of the frozen continent while connecting with fellow explorers. Start your solo adventure today!