Are you ready to unleash your inner adventurer and embark on the ultimate bucket list experience?
The Austral summer, from November to March, beckons with an invitation to discover Antarctica’s awe-inspiring wonders.
Brace yourself for a voyage to the last remaining unspoiled continent on the planet. In this land of natural wonders, you’ll witness nature in all its power and unbounded immensity. And now, with cutting-edge ultra-luxury cruise ships designed for adventure and sustainability, you can experience the pristine beauty of this icy paradise in unparalleled comfort while contributing to its preservation.
Luxury and comfort amidst the frozen realm
Picture waking up in an elegantly appointed cabin with breathtaking views of gleaming glaciers and ethereal snowscapes. Your days will be filled with guided hikes led by expert naturalists who will unveil the secrets of this frozen realm. Get ready to stand just a few metres away from a majestic colony of emperor penguins or witness the spectacle of a humpback whale breaching the icy waters. Zodiac cruises, kayak excursions, hiking, snowshoeing, polar plunges, and even submarine and helicopter rides ensure you can fully appreciate and capture these remarkable moments of close wildlife encounters.
But don’t think for a moment that embarking on an expedition to Antarctica means sacrificing comfort and luxury.
Revolutionary expedition ships like French boutique cruise operator Ponant’s Le Commandant Charcot, Australia-based Scenic Luxury Cruises & Tours’ Scenic Eclipse, and Lindblad Expedition’s National Geographic Resolution offer state-of-the-art amenities and elegant accommodations, providing a haven of relaxation after exhilarating days of exploration. From spacious suites with panoramic views to gourmet dining options, rejuvenating spa treatments, gym, yoga and pilates, and onboard entertainment, these vessels redefine cruising and indulgence.
Or go the whole hog on a private superyacht. Instead of chartering one, join a Book by Cabin Expedition on a research vessel turned luxurious yacht, Nansen Explorer, operated by EYOS Expeditions.
World’s first hybrid-electric polar cruise ship Le Commandant Charcot
Le Commandant Charcot, an extraordinary icebreaking vessel with the highest ice-class rating of any purpose-built cruise ship, takes luxury and sustainability to new heights. With the highest ice-class rating of any cruise ships built to date, Polar Class 2 - meaning it can operate year-round in ice that has built up over multiple years - this purpose-built expedition vessel can venture where others dare not sail, capable of breaking through ice up to 8.5 feet thick, allowing you to explore the remotest polar regions during seasons and in conditions that were once deemed impossible in unparalleled and almost unimaginable comfort. The world’s first hybrid-electric polar cruise ship powered by liquefied natural gas (LNG), it sets a new standard for eco-friendly expedition travel with a range of sustainable features and zero-impact shore excursions, ensuring the protection of pristine wildlife and landscapes.
Upcoming Antarctica Expedition:
Dates: February 6 to March 3 | Duration: 27 days
Route: Lyttelton, New Zealand - Santiago, Chile
Experience an unforgettable half-circumnavigation of Antarctica from the New Zealand shores to Ushuaia, the city at the end of the world. Follow in the footsteps of explorers like Shackleton and Scott, diving into the history of Antarctic conquests. With the expertise of British photo ambassadors Ian Dawson and Sue Flood, immerse yourself in the breathtaking landscapes and abundant wildlife. Sail through the Ross Sea, the world’s largest marine protected area, and explore Adelie Land, Victoria Land, and Marie Byrd Land. Discover untouched territories and contemplate nature’s icy wonders. This extraordinary expedition will take you beyond the Antarctic Circle to Tierra del Fuego, offering a truly essential and awe-inspiring journey.
The world’s first discovery yacht Scenic Eclipse
For those seeking an all-inclusive luxury experience, the Scenic Eclipse is a marvel of engineering and luxury. Equipped with a U-Boat Worx Cruise Submersible 7 and two state-of-the-art Airbus helicopters, this discovery yacht takes exploration to new depths and heights. Dive up to 300 metres below the surface or take to the skies for a truly immersive and unique experience.
Upcoming all-inclusive expeditions to Antarctica:
Departure dates: January 18, 29 | Duration: 13 days
Route: Buenos Aires, Argentina - Buenos Aires, Argentina
Embark on a thrilling 13-day voyage that will take you on a deep exploration of the heart of Antarctica.
The Antarctic Peninsula unveils an ever-changing landscape where the weather, scenery, and colours create a photographer’s dream. Capture the essence of this ethereal world as you embark on shore excursions and kayaking adventures under the guidance of the experienced Discovery Team.
Throughout the voyage, gain captivating insights into this remarkable area’s geology, wildlife, and history with onboard lecture presentations.
The National Geographic Resolution - culmination of adventure and luxury
Named in honour of Captain James Cook’s second voyage, Lindblad Expeditions’ new polar ship is a fully stabilised vessel built to navigate polar waters with its high ice class rating. One of its notable features is the patented X-Bow® design, providing a smoother and quieter ride. With a capacity for 138 guests, the ship prioritises expedition excellence over size, offering luxurious Scandinavian-inflected interiors. The ship’s windows allow for panoramic views, and it is equipped with a fleet of expedition tools for exploration. The National Geographic Resolution embodies the perfect balance of adventure and luxury, representing Lindblad Expeditions’ commitment to providing exceptional experiences in polar regions.
Upcoming expeditions to Antarctica:
Departure dates: January 11, 21, 31, February 10 | Duration: 12 days
Route: Ushuaia, Argentina – Ushuaia, Argentina
Join a team of top naturalists to explore the untouched beauty of the Antarctic Peninsula. Hike on magnificent mountains, marvel at the massive glaciers, and spot penguins like gentoo, Adélie, and chinstrap. Experience the thrill of kayaking alongside penguins and witness whales in their natural habitat. Venture into secluded channels and coves, surrounded by towering peaks. Choose from an active agenda or enjoy relaxing downtime and camaraderie onboard. Capture incredible shots with the assistance of a National Geographic Photography Expert. This is an adventure you won’t want to miss.
Private superyacht experience aboard Nansen Explorer
Indulge in the ultimate exclusive experience with a Book by Cabin Expedition on Nansen Explorer with EYOS, the leader in private superyacht expeditions offering customised expedition experiences on prestigious yachts. You’ll discover a new level of luxury while embarking on a customised journey to Antarctica. Thanks to EYOS’s belief in smaller, more intimate groups, every guest can enjoy up-close encounters with wildlife, flexible schedules, and the expertise of handpicked expedition guides.
Sailing with an experienced crew and an Ice-1A classified hull, this research vessel turned luxurious yacht with a heli-deck with a capacity of only 12 guests can navigate further into ice than other ships. Kayaks, SUPs, and Zodiacs are available for exploratory journeys, while the comfortable lounge, large gym, and open bridge invite socialising with the crew.
Upcoming expedition to Antarctica:
Dates: February 9 to 20 | Duration: 12 days
Route: Puerto Williams, Chile – Puerto Williams, Chile
Depending on the route the voyage takes, highlights of the expeditions to anticipate include the South Shetland Islands on the edge of the Drake Passage on the northern extent of Antarctica, Deception Island, Antarctica Sound and the Weddell Sea, the Danco Coast and Gerlache Strait, the breathtakingly scenic area of the western side of the Antarctica Peninsula. Don’t miss out on this once-in-a-lifetime opportunity.