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.
Early Booking Rates
Exploring Antarctica's Spring
November
11 days
Explore Antarctica early season on board Luxury-Ice-Class Ocean Albatros, discover the great white continent’s striking shores and endless vistas
On Sale
Highlights of the Antarctic Spring: Ocean Victory
November
10 days
A shorter, 10-day voyage to the Great White Continent with incredible wildlife, stunning mountain scenery and icebergs in 9 action-packed days
Early Booking rates
Very Best of Antarctica: Ocean Albatros
November-December
12 days
Explore Antarctica in peak season on board Polar-6-Ice-Class Ocean Albatros, discover the great white continent’s striking shores and endless vistas
On Sale
Antarctica by Helicopter: Ultramarine
November-December
12 days
A 12 day expedition with new Ultramarine to the jewels of the Antarctic: South Georgia and the Peninsula
Classic Antarctica: St Helena
Dec-Mar
10 days
Explore Antarctica on the classic small expedition ship, St Helena, sailing from Ushuaia with all-inclusive activities like kayaking and photography
On Sale
Antarctica Crossing the Circle: Ocean Victory
December-January
12-13 days
On this inspiring cruise, explore magnificent landscapes, glacial mountains, incredible wildlife before reaching 66°33′ – the Antarctic Circle
Polar Circle Air/Cruise: Magellan Discoverer
February
10 days
A 10 day Air/Cruise adventure to Antarctica including Polar Circle. Fly direct to Antarctica and join the brand-new expedition ship Magellan Discovere
Early Booking Rates
Antarctica by Helicopter: Crossing the Circle
February
14 days
Join the state-of-the-art polar ship Ultramarine on an unique and epic helicopter-equipped adventure cruise to Antarctica
Heroic South: St Helena
March
13 days
Extended 13 day Antarctica expedition on the classic small expedition ship, St Helena, visiting rare places and with Polar Circle crossing
Early Booking Prices
Antarctica Ice Swimming Adventure
March 2028
11 days
An in-depth and luxurious expedition cruise to the icy waters of the Antarctica - including guided Ice Swimming Adventures with IISA
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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