Antarctic Peninsula
Experience the essence of Antarctica on a classic Antarctic Peninsula expedition cruise.
Departing from Ushuaia, Argentina, these small-ship voyages are the most popular and accessible way to explore the White Continent. The Antarctic Peninsula is where most explorers fall in love with the polar world. Cruises offer the perfect balance of comfort, wildlife, and adventure — ideal for first-time visitors and seasoned travellers alike. You’ll sail past sculpted icebergs, spot humpback and minke whales, and set foot on the 7th continent via daily Zodiac landings.
Free activities
Antarctica All Access: Ocean Albatros
February
11 days
Take in the best of Antarctica on board X-bow Ice-Class Ocean Albatros, with access to activities like camping and kayaking at no additional charge
Weddell Sea Quest: M/V Ushuaia
February
11 days
An 11 day expedition to the Antarctic Peninsula & South Shetland Islands & Weddell Sea aboard the M/V Ushuaia
Early Booking Bonus
Crossing the Antarctic Circle: Seaventure
January
14 days
An in-depth Antarctica cruise with crossing of the Polar Circle. Sail on board the super ice-class, Seaventure
On Sale
Crossing the Circle: Ultramarine
January & March
14 days
An in-depth 14 day expedition with the pioneering new vessel Ultramarine, with onboard helicopters and offering an unmatched Antarctic experience
On Sale
Antarctica Crossing the Circle: Ocean Albatros
January - February
12-13 days
On this inspiring cruise, explore magnificent landscapes, glacial mountains, incredible wildlife before reaching 66°33′ – the Antarctic Circle
Deep South Basecamp experience: Ortelius
March
14 days
This expedition offers you a myriad of ways to explore and enjoy the Antarctic. Go on long hikes, snowshoe, kayak, and even camp out under open skies
Elephant Island Weddell Sea & Polar Circle
March
15 days
An extended 14 night extended Antarctic voyage with ice-class M/V Plancius, searching for whales and penguins in the wondrous ice beyond the polar cir
Antarctica - Whale discovery and learning voyage
March
11 days
A 10 night Classic Antarctic route on the Polar Class 6 expedition ship M/V Hondius, with opportunities to see whales and Southern Lights!
Antarctic Whale Watching
March
10 days
A classic Antarctic route on the Ice Class Plancius, searching for whales and penguins in the wondrous polar environment
Antarctic Basecamp Expedition Cruise
November - December
13 days
An Antarctic expedition cruise onboard a comfortable ship with a variety of all-inclusive activities such as climbing, kayaking, hiking and diving
The Heart of Antarctica
The Antarctic Peninsula is where most explorers fall in love with the polar world. Cruises here offer the perfect balance of comfort, wildlife, and adventure — ideal for first-time visitors and seasoned travellers alike. You’ll sail past sculpted icebergs, spot humpback and minke whales, and set foot on the 7th continent via daily Zodiac landings.
Why Cruise the Antarctic Peninsula
- Most Accessible Region: Shorter voyages (10–12 days) from Ushuaia via the Drake Passage.
- Abundant Wildlife: Penguins, seals, whales, and seabirds thrive here.
- Spectacular Scenery: Ice cliffs, glaciers, and the Antarctic mountains.
- Frequent Landings: Small ships = more Zodiac operations and exploration.
- Expert Guidance: Naturalists and expedition leaders enhance every day at sea.
Wildlife You Can See in the Antarctic Peninsula
- Gentoo, Adélie penguins, and Chinstrap penguins
- Weddell, crabeater, and leopard seals
- Humpback and minke whales
- Antarctic petrels, skuas, and terns
The Antarctica cruise season runs from November–March - all months being wonderful - there is no absolute best time to visit the Antarctic Peninsula. Wildlife sightings do change through the season — in the early season Nov-Dec you'll see pristine snowy slopes, active penguin courtship and dramatic icebergs. The high season January-February brings peak wildlife, lots of penguin chicks and longer landings. In March enjoy the deep light, quieter voyages, and excellent whale activity. However during the whole season you can see plenty of penguins, whales and of course Antarctica's awe-inspiring mountainous scenery!
Booking Your Antarctic Peninsula Cruise
Book as early as possible for the best choice of cabins and departure dates. Choose from the many tour links on this page and don't forget to sort and filter by ship type, price, departure date, optional adventures and other criteria. Expeditions Online offers flexible payment options, multi-currency booking, and personalized service from polar travel experts. Get in touch with us anytime with questions and don't forget to sign up for our newsletter below:
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