Prepare to embark on an immersive journey of exploration as we push the frontiers of expedition travel, visiting more of the white continent – in more ways – and experiencing more landscapes, wildlife, and history than ever before. Our exclusive Antarctica cruise deals ensure you experience the best value for an unforgettable expedition.
Choose a classic expedition to the Antarctic Peninsula, or wildlife-rich South Georgia, or go where few have gone before you as you cross the Antarctic Circle and attempt to venture into the ice-choked Weddell Sea. These voyages will be across our three purpose-built expedition ships that carry a maximum of 130 passengers, including our brand-new ship, the Douglas Mawson (sailing in 2025).
Join us for an adventure like no other, where our small ships promise big adventures. Book today the best Antarctica cruise deals, and enjoy an Air Credit of US$2,000pp PLUS up to 25% off* select Antarctic expeditions.
Set sail on Aurora Expeditions’ 2026-2027 season of responsible small ship adventures to Antarctica, offering 27 awe-inspiring expeditions aboard three purpose-built small ships.
Get in early to secure your preferred stateroom and enjoy Early Bird savings of up to 25% off*! Or take advantage of 10 dedicated solo staterooms per sailing with no single supplement.
Prepare to embark on an immersive journey of exploration as we push the frontiers of expedition travel, visiting more of the white continent – in more ways – and experiencing more landscapes, wildlife, and history, than ever before.
Reserve your place early for the best fares and availability, and to take advantage of savings up to 20%* PLUS an additional US$2,000pp air credit* off eligible itineraries across the season. Or explore our limited-time Solo Traveller Offers on select 2025/26 Antarctic expeditions!
Antarctica is the southernmost continent on Earth. The South Geographic Pole is in Antarctica, and most of the continent lies within the Antarctic Circle, at 66.5 degrees south of the Equator.
Antarctica is so far south that most of the continent receives 24 hours of daylight during summer, and 24 hours of darkness during winter.
Antarctica lies to the south of Australia, New Zealand, South Africa and South America, and is surrounded by the Southern Ocean (also known as the Antarctic Ocean). Most visitors access Antarctica via ship or aircraft from an Antarctic ‘gateway city’. The five official Antarctic gateway cities are Ushuaia (Argentina), Hobart (Australia), Punta Arenas (Chile), Christchurch (New Zealand), and Cape Town (South Africa).
The name ‘Antarctica’ comes from ‘Antarktos’, meaning ‘opposite the Arctic’. Antarctica and the Arctic are indeed opposites in many ways, and they lie at the polar extremes of the globe: the Arctic to the north and Antarctica to the south.
Antarctica is the coldest continent on Earth. The average temperature throughout the year is about -57°C, with the minimum temperature being -130°F (-90°C) during the winter season.
During the summer months, when we visit, the temperature can range from 28°F (-2°C) to 46°F (8°C). In summer, big storms are rare, but if one comes through the temperature could drop to 17°F (-8°C ).
How long is an Antarctica cruise?
Antarctica cruises typically last between 9 to 34 days, with most cruises ranging from 12 to 21 days. The duration depends on factors such as departure location and itinerary. Shorter trips focus on highlights, while longer voyages explore more remote regions.
The cost of an Antarctica cruise can vary significantly, influenced by factors such as voyage duration, stateroom type, and the chosen itinerary.
When considering an Antarctica cruise with Aurora Expeditions, you can expect prices to start from USD$13,195 per person when sharing a twin Aurora Stateroom. However, there are also early bird discounts available.
Shipboard attire leans toward the informal and casual side, you’ll find jeans, jumpers, and long-sleeved shirts comfortable indoors. It’s wise to have your jacket within reach for impromptu wildlife encounters.
While there’s no need for formal clothing, some travellers like to dress up for the captain’s welcome and farewell drinks.
Each passenger on our Antarctic cruises will receive an expedition jacket. Though, you should pack suitable cold and wet weather gear for onshore landings during your Antarctica cruise.
To help you prepare, consult our suggested packing list, which outlines the recommended types of layers and materials for an Antarctica cruise.
Children are more than welcome on our Antarctica cruises. However, we recommend that they are at least 8 years old and must travel with their legal guardian. Children pay the same rate as an adult traveller.
You can reach Antarctica from the southern tip of South America or from 2025, start your trip from Hobart, Australia or Dunedin, New Zealand. Two popular departure points for Antarctica cruises are Ushuaia, Argentina, and Punta Arenas, Chile, both located in the Patagonian region and are among the southernmost towns on Earth.
Antarctica cruises commencing in Ushuaia typically involve crossing the Drake Passage to reach the Antarctic Peninsula or voyaging to the Subantarctic Islands of the Falklands or South Georgia before continuing onward to Antarctica.
Alternatively, passengers departing from Punta Arenas can enjoy a unique experience by flying to Antarctica, specifically King George Island, via a charter flight arranged exclusively for their expedition.