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Antarctic Polar Circle Cruises & Tours

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Take a trip to the Antarctic Polar Circle, the southernmost of the five major circles of the latitude of Earth and surrounds Antarctica. There is no permanent human population South of the Antarctic Circle, although there are several research stations. Even though there aren't any people living here, there are many massive structures here including expansive fjords, awe-inspiring glaciers, and impressive icebergs. Kayak with whales, observe penguins or take a polar plunge into the ice-cold water on an Arctic trip with Adventure Life. Contact our travel experts to start planning your personalized trip to the Antarctic Polar Circle today!
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10 Best Antarctic Polar Circle Cruises for 2024-2025

All Polar Circle Cruises

Top 7 Luxury Cruises to the Antarctic Circle for 2024-2025

Trip NameFromDaysNext DepartureSummary
Epic Antarctica: Crossing the Circle via Falklands & South Georgia$3849523Dec 16, 2024From the Falkland Islands (Islas Malvinas) to South Georgia to the Antarctic Peninsula, you will have countless unforgettable moments on this …
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Antarctica Complete$3149523Jan 30, 2025Explore Antarctica along with South Georgia and the Falkland - Malvinas islands on this 23-day adventure cruise aboard the Sylvia Earle. Enjoy the …
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In the wake of Jean-Baptiste Charcot$2574015Dec 5, 2025Embark on Le Commandant Charcot for a 15-day expedition to Antarctica, retracing the footsteps of legendary explorers. Witness the landscapes, …
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Crossing the Circle: Southern Expedition$1949514Jan 6, 2025Setting foot on the 7th Continent is a polar achievement few experience. Even more rare is the milestone of crossing the Antarctic Circle. Navigating …
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Polar Circle Air Cruise$2279510Jan 24, 2025Bypass the Drake Passage by flying directly to the South Shetland Islands. Exit the airplane to a world unlike any other on earth; ice-filled fjords, …
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Across the Antarctic Circle$1669513Nov 29, 2025Journey into this magical frozen area of extraordinary beauty, powerful orcas, leopard seals, ethereal snow petrels, bristling mountain ranges, and …
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In the wake of Jean-Baptiste Charcot$2574016Dec 5, 2025Join this adventure to remote corners of the world with The Explorers Club aboard Le Commandant Charcot. Experience thrilling expeditions, engaging …
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Top Antarctic Polar Circle Cruise Deals for 2024-2025

Trip NameSaveFromDaysNext DepartureSummary
Across the Antarctic CircleSavings$1799514Dec 21, 2024Celebrate this magical frozen area of extraordinary beauty, powerful orcas and leopard seals patrol the waters, while ethereal snow petrels grace the …
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Polar Circle Air Cruise$1500$1599510Jan 1, 2025This Antarctic experience flies from Punta Arenas, Chile to King George Island where you embark on a cruise of the Antarctic Peninsula & South …
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Crossing the Antarctic CircleCustom Label$1279515Jan 24, 2025This 15 day in-depth exploration of Antarctica on the Sea Spirit offers the opportunity for you to discover the world above the Polar Circle. Go …
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Antarctic Express: Crossing the CircleCustom Label$2349511Jan 24, 2025On this 11-day journey onboard the Ocean Explorer, immerse yourself in the Antarctic landscape and experience the emotional roller coaster. Visit …
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Antarctica CompleteCustom Label$3149523Jan 30, 2025Explore Antarctica along with South Georgia and the Falkland - Malvinas islands on this 23-day adventure cruise aboard the Sylvia Earle. Enjoy the …
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Crossing the Antarctic CircleCustom Label$2299915Nov 21, 2024Join this 15-day Antarctic cruise from Ushuaia, delving into the vibrant culture before sailing through the Drake Passage aboard World Navigator. …
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Crossing the Circle: Southern ExpeditionCustom Label$1949514Jan 6, 2025Setting foot on the 7th Continent is a polar achievement few experience. Even more rare is the milestone of crossing the Antarctic Circle. Navigating …
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Quest for the CircleCustom Label$1099512Feb 28, 2026Embark on a 12-day Quest for the Circle cruise from Ushuaia to Antarctica aboard Ocean Albatros. Cross the Drake Passage, explore the Antarctic …
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Epic Antarctica: Crossing the Circle via Falklands & South GeorgiaCustom Label$3849523Dec 16, 2024From the Falkland Islands (Islas Malvinas) to South Georgia to the Antarctic Peninsula, you will have countless unforgettable moments on this …
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Across the Antarctic CircleCustom Label$1619513Feb 23, 2025On this 13-day Across the Antarctic Circle Expedition Cruise Roundtrip Ushuaia aboard Greg Mortimer, celebrate this magical frozen area of …
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Antarctic Polar Circle Wildlife Guide

Antarctic Polar Circle Video

What is the cheapest way to get to Antarctica?
The cheapest way to get to Antarctica is by flying from Punta Arenas (PUQ airport), Chile to St.George Island (TNM airport) one way, then the opposite way taking a cruise over five days. The minimum total cost from Punta Arenas is about USD$5000 on the Antarctica Express Air Cruise.
Do you need a passport to go to Antarctica?
Yes, you need a passport to enter Antarctica in addition to the country you access Antarctica from. Most travelers pass through Argentina or Chile before arriving at the Antarctic continent and you likely will need a visa in addition to a passport to enter those countries depending on what nationality you are.
Can I travel to Antarctica?
Yes, you can. About 90% of all travelers arrive in Antarctica by a cruise ship and the remaining 10% arrive by air. The vast majority of travelers aboard a ship designed for polar navigation in the world's southernmost city of Ushuaia, Argentina. Few highly-privileged individuals have the opportunity to visit the white continent. In the 2018-2019 season, the total number of people who visited Antarctica was about 55,500 with the majority coming from the United States, followed by China, Australia, the United Kingdom, and Germany.
Which are the best ships for a cruise to Antarctica?
The best ship to Antarctica depends on your own personal preferences and you will want to consider the following factors, among others:

Size of the vessel - Some travelers prefer the intimacy of small group travel that often means more time with the guide, more efficient embarkation/ disembarkation, and a cozier feel on board. Boats with fewer travelers (100 or less) also tend to offer more adventure options such as scuba diving, kayaking, and camping. Other travelers prefer the relative spaciousness (cabins still tend to be small on most boats!) and added facilities (Jacuzzi, gym, pool, etc) of the larger boats. Often, though not always, the larger boats tend to have more luxury amenities and also be more expensive for similar itineraries.

Itinerary - Many of the yachts offer a similar range of itineraries. However, some offer more diversity than others. If you have a special interest such as visiting South Georgia, crossing the circle, or traveling to the Falklands, let our trip coordinator know.

Cost - The cost of Antarctica voyages varies tremendously. If you are working within a specific budget, let our trip coordinators know so that we can match you with the very best cruise. Size of cabins, length of itinerary, facilities on the boat, etc. can all impact the cost. Once we know your priorities, we can help you find the best option!

Special interest - Some vessels offer special cruises for divers, kayakers, climbers, campers, photographers, etc. If you have a special interest, please let us know.
Do I need a converter/ adapter for the electricity?
Each ship has its own type of electrical outlets, depending upon the country where it was built. Many of the ships are originally from Russia and use 220 volts, 50 cycle electricity with two round prongs. Ask your Operations Coordinator for details on the vessel you are taking. 
What are the fitness/ health requirements?
Although you do not need to be in excellent fitness to join an Antarctica cruise, you do need to be in overall good health. These remote areas do not have access to modern medical facilities. You should not join an Antarctica cruise if you have a life-threatening condition or one that requires extensive medical attention. That said the trip does not need to be physically demanding. You may opt-out of the shore excursions and choose instead to view the wildlife and landscape from the deck. Onshore, most vessels offer at least one easy walk that allows participants to experience the destination without going far from the landing site.
What are the typical demographics of other passengers on board?
Travelers come from around the world, though most speak English fluently. They may range in age from children to seniors, with most travelers aged the 30s-60s. Some vessels do not permit children under age 12 and families should not expect many children on any of the departures.
Are these trips suitable for kids?
It depends. Some vessels have minimum age requirements ranging from 6 to 12. Other vessels leave it up to the parents to decide whether or not the cruise would be appropriate. The dramatic landscapes and unique wildlife can be fascinating for children. However, the long voyages at sea can become tiresome for even the most hearty child traveler. It is unlikely that there will be other children onboard for your kids to play with so be sure to bring plenty of entertainment options along - books, arts and crafts projects, etc. You may also want to consider upgrading to a larger room or suite to give kids more room to spread out. Since there is no access to medical facilities, children with chronic conditions such as severe asthma, diabetes, etc are not advised to visit.
Are these trips a good choice for solo travelers?
Absolutely! Most vessels have special single rates or can arrange a shared room at no additional cost. The majority of Antarctica visitors still travel as couples or families so these trips can be a bit lonely for some solo travelers. However, the relatively small groups and long voyages onboard allow travelers to easily meet others with shared interests. Solo travelers should also take a look at our exclusive Solo Traveler Departures.
Do tour rates include international flights?
Tour rates do not include international flights unless indicated. We find that it is usually less expensive for travelers to book these separately and this also allows you the flexibility to choose the schedule and routing that is most convenient for you. You are welcome to book these on your own, or we can certainly help you arrange these flights with an airfare consolidator who specializes in South America flights.

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