Finding the Best Cruises Antarctica

If you want to go where few people have gone before you, take a cruise to Antarctica. The ice-encased continent is largely unexplored and yet, there is plenty to see and do here. Picture standing on the ship’s deck as icebergs float by and whales breach the waters in the distance. Choose the right Antarctica cruise packages and you’ll also be able to hike over snowy trails, kayak in the fjords, and get up-close views of penguins and seals.

There are dozens of Antarctica tour packages available today. Let’s take a look at a few details to keep in mind while booking Antarctica tour packages from India and some of the most exciting cruises.

What Sets Antarctica Cruise Packages Apart?

Antarctica Cruise packages are a little different as compared to cruises in other parts of the world. The size of the ship plays a big role in determining the overall experience. If you’re hoping to actually step on to the ice, look for small ships with a capacity of up to 500 guests. Also known as Antarctica expedition cruises, these itineraries typically follow one of two formats: round-trip voyages or fly-cruises. The latter lets you fly to or from the continent and cruise the remaining leg. Once you’re in Antarctic waters, you can join small groups to go ashore via zodiac boats. Larger cruise ships are not permitted to make shore landings. Instead, they give you the floating resort experience with a scenic overview of Antarctica.

On that note, let’s take a look at the best expedition cruises to Antarctica.

Antarctica 21 

Antarctica 21 pioneered Fly & Cruise Expeditions to Antarctica. This is the only luxury boutique cruise to Antarctica where you’ll sail with less than 100 other passengers. The Antarctica Express Air-Cruise lets you sail one way and fly over the Drake Passage on the way back. If you’d rather skip this sea passage but still experience an Antarctic cruise, take a look at the Classic Antarctica Air-Cruise. This cruise includes a round-trip flight over the Drake Passage from Punta Arenas and 4 days of cruising around Antarctica.

Quark Expeditions

Quark Expeditions offers many Antarctica tour packages with itineraries ranging from 8 to 23-days. Some sail both ways while others include a one-way or return flight experience over the Drake Passage. Of these, the 10 Nights Antarctic Express Crossing the Circle Cruise stands out. Along with sailing along the Antarctic peninsula, it also sails across the Antarctic Circle, at 66°33′ S. On the other hand, if you’re interested in marine life, the 10 Nights Antarctic Marine Mammals The World of Whales and Seals could be your ideal holiday.

Poseidon Expeditions

With more than 25 years of polar cruising experience, Poseidon Expeditions are known for intimate voyages shared by just about 100-114 guests. The limited guest capacity eliminates the need for group rotations and lets all guests go ashore together. On cruises like the 20 Nights Antarctic Wildlife Adventure, this means you can enjoy up to 3 zodiac landings a day with each lasting for about 2.5 hours. The 11 Nights Realm Of Penguins & Icebergs cruise offers a comparable experience but with a shorter itinerary.

Oceanwide Expeditions

Oceanwide Expeditions operates activity-focused expedition cruises along 4 routes in Antarctica. The crew often includes a professional photographer to help you frame breathtaking photographs. The 12 Nights Antarctica cruise takes this a step further with a dedicated photography workshop. On select itineraries like the 10 Nights Weddell Sea cruise, you can also take to the skies on a helicopter ride in search of Emperor Penguins

Silversea 

Silversea is known for its luxurious Antarctica expedition cruises. Picture a 1:1 guest-to-staff ratio and round-the-clock butler service. They offer a door-to-door tour to Antarctica from India and all-inclusive port-to-port Antarctica tour packages. You can also book voyage-only Antarctica cruise deals. Popular itineraries range from the  6 Nights Roundtrip To King George Island to an 18 Nights Roundtrip To Puerto Williams. Irrespective of the itinerary, you'll enjoy Zodiac excursions and a range of shore activities.
 

Hurtigruten Expeditions

Hurtigruten Expeditions combines luxury cruising with a science-led approach. With engaging onboard learning programmes and expert-led landings, these cruises offer an enriching way to discover Antarctica. Of the many itineraries offered, the  Highlights of Antarctica and Iconic Antarctica cruises are the most popular. Both itineraries include plenty of shore activities as well as optional adventures to personalize your experience.

Ponant 

Ponant luxury expeditions to Antarctica range from 12 to 22-day cruises. In addition to the luxurious service, expeditions like Emblematic Antarctica stand out for the company of passionate professionals. These experts add historical, cultural and environmental context to every excursion. Ponant’s Great Austral Loop is another great way to discover Antarctica. This expedition combines three iconic destinations-Falkland Islands, South Georgia and Antarctica - in one 19-day journey.

Seabourn 

Seabourn cruises to Antarctica are known for their spacious ocean-front suites, personalised service and a yacht-like atmosphere. Antarctica is also included in many of their multi-country cruise itineraries. Cruises like the Great White Continent Cruise pair the thrill of exploring Antarctica with the comforts of an ultra-luxury expedition. These cruises are inclusive of Zodiac excursions, landings and hikes and offer optional kayaking and photography experiences for a more active adventure.

Aurora Expeditions 

Whether you choose a 9-day express cruise to Antarctica or a 34-day polar expedition, Aurora Expeditions promises a thrilling adventure on every cruise. Some of cruises like the 11 Night Through the Lens Cruise include a 1-way flight over the Drake Passage to maximize your time in Antarctica. The Spirit of Antarctica is another popular cruise. It stands out not only for its itinerary but also for the guided excursions and workshops developed in partnership with New Scientist Discovery Tours.

Frequently Asked Questions 

Do all Antarctica tour packages include excursions on the ice?
Only expedition cruises to Antarctica include zodiac landings and tours on the ice. Guests on ‘Sail by’ cruises cannot step off the ship in Antarctica.

What is the best time for a tour to Antarctica from India?
October to March is the ideal season for a tour to Antarctica from India.

What are the general inclusions on Antarctica cruise packages?
Antarctica cruise packages are generally inclusive of onboard accommodation, meals, Zodiac rides and guided excursions. You may also be able to borrow special equipment like rubber boots and waterproof parkas without paying additional fees.
 

Booking Antarctica Tour Packages from India

Antarctica isn’t a place people visit on a whim and figuring out the logistics of travelling to the White Continent can get tricky. Rather than let this dampen your excitement, let CruiseBay plan your holiday. Our team can help you compare itineraries, find the right cruise for your travel style, select cabins and plan optional excursions. We can also manage your pre- and post-cruise logistics like flying to and from Ushuaia, booking hotels, processing visas and making sure you have adequate insurance.

So, are you ready for your tour to Antarctica from India? Get in touch and let’s start planning.