Antarctic Polar Circle Cruises & Tours
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| Trip Name | From | Days | Next Departure | Summary |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Antarctica Complete | $36,095 | 23 | Feb 07, 2027 | Join a 23-day expedition cruise on the Greg Mortimer, exploring Ushuaia, the Antarctic Peninsula, and South Georgia. Experience onboard lectures, thrilling activities, and a traditional Fuegian barbecue before concluding your unforgettable journey in Ushuaia. |
| Antarctica Complete (Christmas and New Year) | $36,095 | 23 | Dec 17, 2026 | Join this 23-day cruise from Ushuaia on the Douglas Mawson, celebrating Christmas while exploring the Antarctic Peninsula, South Georgia, and the Falklands-Malvinas. Experience wildlife-rich subantarctic islands, Zodiac cruises, and breathtaking landscapes for the ultimate polar adventure. |
| Crossing the Circle: Southern Expedition | $19,795 | 14 | Jan 06, 2026 | Setting foot on the 7th Continent is a polar achievement few experience. Even more rare is the milestone of crossing the Antarctic Circle. Navigating south of 66°33' S is the highlight of the 14-day voyage, which rewards passengers daily with views of dramatic ice formations, humpback whales, leopard seals, penguins, and giant petrels. |
| Polar Circle Air Cruise | $24,995 | 10 | Jan 30, 2026 | Bypass 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, penguin rookeries, and great expanses of ice await. Sail as far south as possible in an attempt to reach the Polar Circle. Flexibility is key to a successful voyage as conditions can change quickly. |
| Antarctic Peninsula: Crossing the Circle | $18,895 | 14 | Jan 14, 2027 | Join this 14-day Antarctic Peninsula: Crossing the Circle cruise aboard World Voyager. Embark on an unforgettable Antarctic adventure. Explore Buenos Aires, cruise through the Beagle Channel, cross the Drake Passage, and encounter wildlife on the Antarctic Peninsula and beyond. |
| In the wake of Jean-Baptiste Charcot | $28,840 | 16 | Dec 05, 2025 | Join this adventure to remote corners of the world with The Explorers Club aboard Le Commandant Charcot. Experience thrilling expeditions, engaging lectures, and firsthand knowledge from Science Grantees. Explore the Antarctic Peninsula, Bellingshausen Sea, and more on this 16-day journey. Encounter penguins, seals, whales, and more in the Far South. |
| Trip Name | From | Days | Next Departure | Summary |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Polar Circle Quest | $8,990 | 12 | Feb 14, 2026 | This 12-day small ship cruise to Antarctica on the MV Ushuaia sails to the Antarctic Peninsula and South Shetland Islands from Ushuaia, Argentina. Conditions permitting, navigate some of the most beautiful waterways on the planet: the Gerlache Strait, Errera Channel, Neumayer Channel, and the extremely narrow Lemaire Channel. |
| Crossing the Antarctic Circle | $15,295 | 15 | Jan 26, 2027 | Embark on a 15-day expedition to and from Ushuaia aboard the Sea Spirit, departing from Ushuaia, Argentina, to explore the stunning Antarctic Peninsula and the South Shetland Islands. Encounter whales, penguins, and spectacular glaciers. |
| Quest for the Circle | $10,995 | 12 | Feb 28, 2026 | Embark on a 12-day Quest for the Circle cruise from Ushuaia to Antarctica aboard Ocean Albatros. Cross the Drake Passage, explore the Antarctic Peninsula's stunning landscapes, and encounter diverse wildlife, including penguins, seals, and whales. |
| Crossing the Antarctic Circle | $12,999 | 13 | Dec 22, 2026 | Set sail on a 13-day Crossing the Antarctic Circle cruise aboard World Traveller and explore dramatic coastlines, walk among penguins, and witness massive icebergs up close. Each day brings new discoveries with guided landings and Zodiac safaris. |
| Ultimate Circle Crossing | $15,665 | 15 | Jan 27, 2027 | Sail aboard MS Seaventure on this 15-day Antarctica cruise starting in Ushuaia, crossing the Drake Passage to explore the South Shetland Islands and Antarctic Peninsula. Encounter penguins, seals, and whales, cruise past colossal icebergs, and visit remote research stations. Experience the thrill of crossing the Antarctic Circle, joining the select few who venture this far south. |
| Falkland Islands - South Georgia - Elephant Island - Antarctica - Polar Circle | $16,950 | 23 | Feb 16, 2026 | Join MV Hondius on a 23-day sailing adventure that allows you to discover and explore Antarctica, passing from the Falkland Island to Polar Circle. Experience some of the most dramatic landscapes on earth and enjoy close encounters with Gentoo and Adélie penguins, brown skuas, leopard seals, along with humpback and minke whales. |
| Crossing the Circle | $15,555 | 14 | Feb 04, 2026 | Embark on a 14-day Antarctica cruise aboard MS Seaventure, departing from Ushuaia. Cruise through the Beagle Channel, Cape Horn, and the Drake Passage before reaching the Antarctic Peninsula and crossing the Antarctic Circle. Explore Antarctica using Zodiacs to visit penguin rookeries, seal wallows, bird colonies, and whale feeding areas. |
| Antarctic Express: Crossing the Circle | $25,595 | 11 | Jan 09, 2026 | On this 11-day journey onboard the Ocean Explorer, immerse yourself in the Antarctic landscape and experience the emotional roller coaster. Visit King George Island before embarking on a voyage to the Antarctic Peninsula. Cross the Antarctic Circle to arrive at 66º33´ S. Take pleasure in having reached a region of the world that relatively few people visit. |
| Bellingshausen Sea, Peter I Island plus Ellsworth Land - incl. helicopters | $24,500 | 25 | Jan 14, 2027 | Begin your 25-day expedition in Ushuaia, Argentina, and sail aboard Ortelius through the Drake Passage into Antarctica’s remote southern reaches. Discover rare wildlife, historic sites, and untouched landscapes as you explore the Bellingshausen Sea, Ellsworth Land, and Peter I Island by Zodiac and helicopter. |
| Journey to the Antarctic Circle | $12,445 | 14 | Feb 04, 2027 | Experience a 14-day roundtrip cruise from Ushuaia aboard the Ocean Nova, sailing through the Beagle Channel and Drake Passage to explore the Antarctic Peninsula and the South Shetland Islands. Encounter penguins, seals, whales, and seabirds while enjoying Zodiac landings, kayaking, and a polar plunge. |
The Antarctic Circle is an imaginary line encircling the Earth at 66°33'S latitude. This latitude marks the southernmost point where the sun can be seen above the horizon for 24 hours during summer solstice and remains below the horizon for 24 hours during winter solstice.
Unlike the Antarctic Peninsula, which is more frequently visited, the area below the Antarctic Circle is more remote. Antarctic Circle cruises that venture this far south typically provide longer itineraries and exclusive landing sites that are rarely reached on standard polar cruises.
Yes, but only select Antarctic Circle cruises make the journey beyond 66°33'S. Standard polar cruises often explore the Antarctic Peninsula, but an Antarctic Circle cruise requires additional days at sea and ideal weather conditions.
Ships must navigate through three bodies of challenging waters: the Lemaire Channel, the Gerlache Strait, and further into the icy expanse of the Bellingshausen Sea.
Reaching this latitude is a major milestone for adventurers. Fewer than 20% of Antarctica-bound travelers experience this crossing. While many itineraries aim for the Antarctic Polar Circle, ice conditions can determine the exact route which makes every journey a true expedition.
The best time for Antarctic Circle cruises is usually during the peak of the Antarctic summer, which happens between late January to early March. This period offers milder temperatures, long daylight hours, and increased wildlife activity.*
Unlike early-season voyages where ice can block access, late-season departures increase the likelihood of crossing the Antarctic Circle and exploring rarely visited locations.
*Please note that wildlife sightings are not guaranteed.
Crossing into the Antarctic Circle offers opportunities to see some of the most elusive and extraordinary wildlife on the continent. While sightings can never be guaranteed, Atlantic Circle cruises can provide a high chance of observing:
Leopard Seals: These powerful predators patrol the ice floes and are often seen hunting near penguin colonies.
Minke & Humpback Whales: As krill populations peak, whales become more active to surface near expedition ships and Zodiac boats.
Adélie Penguins: These true Antarctic penguins thrive in the colder southern latitudes and are often spotted in large, bustling colonies.
Snow Petrels & Albatrosses: These seabirds follow ships and glide effortlessly over frigid waters.
Selecting the right Antarctic Circle cruise depends on several factors:
Ship Size: Smaller expedition ships (under 200 passengers) provide more flexibility for shore landings and Zodiac excursions, as Antarctic regulations allow for a maximum of 200 passengers to land on the continent at any given time.
Length of Trip: A voyage that attempts to cross the Antarctic Circle typically lasts between 12 and 16 days. This ensures time for exploration beyond the Peninsula.
Activities & Excursions: Some Antarctic Circle cruises offer kayaking, camping, and photography workshops.
Departure Points: Most Antarctic Circle cruises set sail from Ushuia, Argentina being the main gateway. However, fly-cruise options, like an Antarctica Express Air Cruise, allow travelers to skip the Drake Passage and fly directly from Chile to King George Island.
If you're traveling alone, don’t worry. There are many expeditions that cater to solo travelers. They offer shared cabins and group excursions that foster a camaraderie among fellow adventurers.
Choosing one of the above Antarctic Circle cruises is a decision that guarantees a rare and extraordinary polar experience. They stand alone from standard itineraries.Life on an Antarctic Circle cruise is a balance of adventure and comfort. Each day brings a mix of exploration and onboard activities that are designed to deepen your understanding of the region.
Cabins range from simple yet cozy bunk-style rooms to elegant suites with panoramic views. Meals are included and cater to a variety of dietary needs to ensure passengers stay energized for daily outings.
Expert-led lectures fill the evenings. They cover topics like Antarctic wildlife, glacial formations, and polar exploration history.
Days are structured around shore landings and Zodiac cruises. Meanwhile, evenings provide time to unwind in the observation lounge or browse the ship’s library.
Few expeditions venture beyond the Antarctic Circle, which makes landings there some of the least-visited sites on the continent. Here are a few key locations travelers might explore on an Antarctic Circle cruise:
Marguerite Bay: A wild and remote bay, often packed with drifting ice. Home to Adélie penguin colonies and research stations like Rothera Base.
Detaille Island: A historical landing site, once home to a British research station. It offers a rare glimpse into mid-20th-century Antarctic exploration.
Crystal Sound: A photographer’s paradise. This ice-clogged passageway is flanked by dramatic mountains and glacial formations.
While crossing into the deep Antarctic, travelers can immerse themselves in the polar wilderness through a range of adventure activities:
Zodiac Cruising: Navigate between towering icebergs, spot seals basking on ice floes, and witness whales surfacing in the frigid waters.*
Guided Shore Excursions: Hike along snow-covered landscapes, visit penguin colonies, and explore historic research stations.*
Kayaking: Paddle through icy channels while experiencing Antarctica’s silence and solitude from the water’s surface.
Polar Plunge: A once-in-a-lifetime leap into the frigid Southern Ocean.
Camping: On select expeditions, experience a night on the ice and listen to the distant sounds of cracking glaciers and calling seabirds.*
The landscapes south of the Antarctic Circle are a photographer’s dream and offer a world of stark contrasts and ethereal beauty. Icebergs in shades of deep blue and white float through mirror-like waters while reflecting an endless summer light.
The lack of light pollution also means that the sky is an incredible canvas of stars on clear nights. For photographers, every moment in this remote environment is an opportunity to capture something unique and special.Choosing the right Antarctic Circle cruise requires careful planning. Here’s what to consider:
Trip Length: Most voyages beyond the Circle last between 12 and 16 days. This allows enough time for deep exploration.
Seasonality: Late January to March offers the best access to southern waters along with milder conditions.
Flights & Departures: Most expeditions depart from Ushuaia, Argentina, but fly-cruise packages allow travelers to fly directly to the continent from Chile.
Crossing the Antarctic Circle is a rare achievement. It’s reserved for adventurers who seek to go beyond the usual trip. While the Antarctic Peninsula offers stunning scenery and wildlife, polar cruises in Antarctica provide a deeper, more exclusive exploration of the White Continent.
More than a trip, Antarctic Circle cruises are true expeditions. You are embracing the unknown, pushing beyond where most travelers go, and witnessing a side of Antarctica that few ever experience.
If you’re looking for the ultimate polar adventure, this is the voyage for you.
