Antarctica Luxury Cruises

Choosing a Luxury Antarctic Cruise

Selecting the right luxury Antarctica cruise depends on your travel style. 

Do you prefer a small, intimate vessel or a larger ship with extensive amenities? Or, are you seeking adventure-focused excursions or indulgent relaxation? 

With options from Silversea, Ponant, and Lindblad Expeditions, you’ll find Antarctica luxury cruises that offer unique experiences tailored to discerning travel tastes.
 

Small vs. Large Cruise Ships

One of the biggest factors when choosing a luxury Antarctica cruise is the size of the cruise ship. The International Association of Antarctica Tour Operators (IAATO) guidelines dictate that ships with over 500 passengers cannot take passengers on shore. As a result, larger ships spend several days cruising through scenic scapes - but this type of Antarctica luxury cruise doesn’t let you actually set foot on Antarctica. 

Meanwhile, Antarctica luxury cruises using a small ship usually involve boarding a zodiac and landing where the guide determines is optimal. Other reasons why the best luxury cruises to Antarctica use small ships are because they have the ability to go further south through deeper ice, have more specialized guides, superior lectures, and cruisemates highly interested in the geography, natural history and wildlife of Antarctica. Here a few options for a luxury Antarctica cruise on a small ship:

• Le Boreal: 260 passengers

• Ultramarine: 199 passengers

• Scenic Eclipse: 228 passengers

• World Traveller: 198 passengers

• National Geographic Explorer: 148 passengers
   

Cruise Length and Itinerary

An Antarctica luxury cruise ranges from 8 to 24 days. Shorter itineraries focus on the Antarctic Peninsula, while extended voyages explore South Georgia and the Falkland Islands. Ships like Le Boreal offer diverse itineraries suited for first-time visitors and seasoned polar explorers alike.
 

Antarctic Fly/Cruise vs. Traditional Cruise

A fly/cruise eliminates the Drake Passage and allows travelers to start their adventure directly in Antarctica. A traditional voyage from Ushuaia, Argentina provides a full expedition experience that includes stunning ocean crossings. 

Luxury Antarctica cruise operators such as Silversea and Scenic Cruises offer both options to cater to different preferences.
 

Size of Vessel 

The vessel’s size influences both comfort and expedition access. 
Smaller ships like Silver Wind offer personalized service and frequent shore landings. Larger vessels, such as Le Commandant Charcot, provide world-class amenities, but their size may limit some expedition activities.
 

Cost 

The best luxury Antarctica cruise lines range from $15,000 to $40,000+ per person. Pricing varies based on ship category, suite selection, itinerary, and season. Voyages on Silver Cloud or Ultramarine include all-inclusive experiences, while some ships offer add-ons like helicopter flights.
 

Special interest

For those seeking unique experiences, specialized itineraries cater to photography, scientific exploration, and adventure. National Geographic Endurance provides expert-led workshops, while World Traveller offers wellness-focused Antarctic journeys. Whether you desire educational lectures or extreme excursions, there's a luxury Antarctica cruise designed for your passion. 

Ponant

A leader in boutique luxury cruising, Ponant blends French sophistication with expedition excellence. Ships like Le Boreal and Le Commandant Charcot offer refined gastronomy, spacious suites, and expert-led excursions. Expect a balance of high-end relaxation and immersive Antarctic exploration.
 

Silversea

Renowned for all-inclusive, ultra-luxury travel, Silversea operates small, opulent ships like the Silver Explorer and Silver Wind. Each suite includes butler service, fine dining, and expert-led Zodiac excursions. With extensive itineraries and premium service, Silversea ensures an unparalleled experience aboard a luxury Antarctica cruise.
 

Lindblad Expeditions

Partnered with National Geographic, Lindblad Expeditions offers educational, adventure-focused voyages. Ships like the National Geographic Orion provide unparalleled access to remote Antarctic landscapes and guidance by world-class naturalists and photographers.
 

Scenic Cruises

If cutting-edge luxury is your preference, Scenic Cruises offers unparalleled amenities on ships like the Scenic Eclipse. With onboard helicopters, a submarine, and expansive spa facilities, Scenic redefines luxury cruises to Antarctica, combining adventure with five-star indulgence.

An Antarctica luxury cruise combines adventure with unparalleled comfort. Travelers can expect world-class amenities, gourmet cuisine, and expert-led excursions. These voyages provide a blend of exploration and indulgence to ensure every guest enjoys a once-in-a-lifetime experience.
 

Luxury Accommodations & Amenities

Expect spacious suites with private balconies, plush bedding, and personalized service. Many ships, like Silversea’s Silver Cloud, offer butler service, full-service spas, and fitness centers.
 

All-Inclusive Dining & Premium Beverages

The best luxury cruises to Antarctica feature Michelin-inspired menus, fine wines, and all-inclusive dining. Ponant’s fleet offers French cuisine, while Scenic Cruises provides multi-restaurant gourmet options.
 

Excursions & Potential Wildlife Encounters

Zodiac excursions, guided hikes, and a chance to see penguins and whales are daily activities.* Expert naturalists from Lindblad Expeditions lead educational lectures and photography workshops. 

Some ships, like Ultramarine, even feature helicopters for aerial exploration. From solo travelers to families, a luxury Antarctica cruise ensures a breathtaking, immersive journey in absolute comfort.

*Please note that wildlife sightings are not guaranteed.